HE'S GONNA CUT SS!!!! (didn't happen) HE'S GONNA INVADE SYRIA!!! (didn't happen) HE'S GONNA NOMINATE

[Skraxx]

SUMMERS!!!! (didn't happen) HE's NEVER GONNA LEAVE IRAQ!!! (we left Iraq) HE'S NEVER GONNA END DADT!!! (it ended) and on and on and on. The examples of this dynamic at this point are legion.

And the political Left apparently stopped Obama's evil, corporate, warmongering machinations time and time again, at least according the internets.

So, if Obama was persuaded, and listened to the political Left, we should applaud this behavior, no?

We have a President who listens and responds to pressure from the political Left.

He LISTENS and RESPONDS.

Get it?

If this is the case, then we are "making him do it!".

Why are we angry again?

[leftstreet]

1. JOBS PROGRAM didn't happen EFCA didn't happen

UNIVERSAL HEALTHCARE didn't happen

SHOVEL READY JOBS didn't happen

[Roland99]

15. He was against Single Payer during his campaign

[leftstreet]

19. PUBLIC OPTION didn't happen

LET MEDICARE NEGOTIATE CHEAPER RXs didn't happen

LET BANKRUPTCY JUDGES MODIFY MORTGAGE TERMS didn't happen

[tblue]

218. Well if you're gonna be picky.

DRONES happen.

Why are people celebrating his putting us through these emotional upheavals? A strong leader, if he is certain and has honorable intentions, does not dick around with the emotional wellbeing of his people. This POTUS has let (some of) us down often enough that, yeah, when he floats a trial balloon about doing something awful, i believe there is a real good chance he'll do it. If he doesn't because he was playing chess, it doesn't make me grateful. It makes me pissed that he would date put us through that ringer. Not cool!

[Cali_Democrat]

17. So why didn't those things happen?

It certainly wasn't Obama fault. It was obstruction in Congress.

And they're still obstructing, but you refuse to criticize Republicans for their obstruction. You prefer to direct your anger at Obama even though he's on your side, assuming you actually are of the left.

[leftstreet]

21. Yeah, and he fought so hard for the Public Option

[Cali_Democrat]

23. There you go again

Criticizing Obama.

You never criticize Republicans who are the ones standing in the way.

So predictable.

[leftstreet]

28. I credit him for keeping two of his promises

Took Michelle on a date

Got the kids a dog

[Cali_Democrat]

31. What are your thoughts on the repeal of DADT?

Let me guess...it was all Congress?

[tridim]

38. ...or Putin. nt

[cascadiance]

60. Putin played him like a fiddle with Snowden...

Just think how much Obama would have been more popular than Putin with his pulling out of talks with Putin if instead of saying it was because of Putin giving Snowden asylum, that instead he did it to protest Russia's stances and treatment of gays in the Olympics!

Obama missed the boat on that one! Maybe it was because is hidden bosses were making it very clear that protecting the NSA was more important than anything else!

[cascadiance]

41. Okay, but that was one area that corporate america absolutely DOES NOT CARE ABOUT!

ANYTHING that affects their business operations, the bottom line, or the 1%'s wealth Obama's pretty much been a no op on fixing, which is having our wealth divide and most of our nation sliding in to poverty get that much worse.

[Cali_Democrat]

47. What about the withdrawal from Iraq?

Didn't the MIC want that to continue?

What about Wall Street reform? You can't tell me the 1% actually wanted that. They were so opposed to Dodd Frank.

[cascadiance]

70. Have we REALLY withdrawn from Iraq? And Wall Street reform? LOL!

http://articles.baltimoresun.com/2012-02-16/news/bs-ed-iraq-20120216_1_embassy-staff-iraqi-politicians-security-forces

When do they send ONE person to jail for some of the worst crimes that have been committed in our country? Even Reagan is FAR AHEAD of Obama in making banksters accountable when he sent many of them to jail in the Savings and Loans mess.

[jazzimov]

203. How about

we first get the economy on stable footing, and THEN start reform. Which HE HAS. He's started a special Task Force, and since you haven't been paying attention - Holder has started suits against the Big Players.

Why do you REALLY hate Obama? Your "reasons" keep getting shot down.

[cascadiance]

221. He starts a task force now to do WHAT? Statute of limitations has run out on many of the crimes!

He talks a lot, but he doesn't back it up with real progressive deeds. His cabinet selections like Ram Emmanuel reflect what his priorities have been, which have been to serve the interests more of corporate America than they have served us the people. Now he's not as bad as Republicans, but he certainly could do a LOT better to serve the Democratic base over his "money friends"!

If you want to get the economy on stable footing, you first need to get rid of the crooks that have been rigging the system out of the system first. It's hard to get things working again when crooks are still abusing the system and running it in to the ground. The too big to jail philosophy needs to stop!

[leftstreet]

48. Better than extending Bush Tax Cuts

DADT repeal excellent, excellent news for gay service members

And with enough pressure, Obama finally did it. Sadly at the same time he extended Bush Tax Cuts, but I know we're not supposed to draw a connection there...

[Cali_Democrat]

49. What about Wall Street reform?

Does Obama get any credit for that?

[leftstreet]

61. LOL 60% of which hasn't even happened?

But because of the complexity of the industry, the law gave regulators extended time to write the new rules that would enforce its provisions.

So far, regulators have missed 60 percent of the rule-making deadlines, according to an analysis by the law firm of Davis Polk, which has been tracking progress on the bill. Even so, the rules are so complicated that the ones already written have filled about 13,800 pages, compared with the 848 pages in the law itself.

"I would have to give it a mediocre grade at this point," said Sheila Bair, the former chair of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. "Most of the rules have not been finalized. A lot of them haven't even been proposed yet. When some of the rules have been proposed, they're highly complicated, they're riddled with exceptions, they're watered down."

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/08/20/obama-wall-street-reform_n_3784384.html

The 'Volcker' rule that hasn't even taken effect?

LOL banks are bigger now than they were in 2008

[Cali_Democrat]

65. What about the withdrawal from Iraq?

[leftstreet]

69. Where's all the money 'we' saved?

If Afghanistan, et al are 'smart' wars, not 'dumb' ones...where's the $$?

[Cali_Democrat]

86. What about the signing of the new START treaty?

[leftstreet]

89. 1 in 6 Americans experience food insecurity n/t

[Cali_Democrat]

91. What about being the first President to endorse same sex marriage?

[leftstreet]

98. 3+ million homeless in the US n/t

[Cali_Democrat]

104. What about the signing of the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act?

[leftstreet]

105. 20+ million need fulltime jobs n/t

[Cali_Democrat]

116. What about the signing of the childrens health insurance reauthorization act?

[leftstreet]

121. So...Congress ISN'T obstructing him?

All the accomplishments you've listed for us...I certainly see no obstructionism

[Cali_Democrat]

134. What about executive order to repeal restrictions on federal funding for stem cell research?

[leftstreet]

138. So...Congress ISN'T obstructing him?

You said upthread we couldn't have nice things BECAUSE CONGRESS

[Cali_Democrat]

145. What about the signing of the Christopher and Dana Reeve Paralysis Act?

[jazzimov]

205. Answer the question that was posed to you. nt

[leftstreet]

219. Make me n/t

[Cali_Democrat]

228. What about the expansion of Medicaid to people under 65?

[leftynyc]

238. Yawn

Obviously you're one of the perpetually outraged and do nothing but whine so therefore I will miss absolutely nothing by scrolling past your posts.

[quakerboy]

168. Soo...

You are saying that Obama should get all credit for anything positive, and the congress should get all blame for anything negative?

Seems somehow inconsistent. DADT repeal is good. Not having a public option is bad. Both congress and the president had a hand in each of those. There are a few things that are all congress... for instance trying to repeal the ACA. There are a few things that are all Obama. Not sending the Justice department after war criminals was his, as I understand it. The Waiver Under the Trade Act of 1974 With Respect to the Republic of Belarus was definitely all his. But most of things our government sets into action have multiple participants.

[VanillaRhapsody]

52. that's it?

Lily Ledbetter not important to you? As a woman...its damn sure is to me!

[leftstreet]

87. Not sure if he ever washed Boehner's car

I believe he promised to do it, if he got some kind of compromise on something

[leftynyc]

237. How about his supreme court picks?

Is there ANYTHING you want to credit him with or just keep your tired screeching bitching?

[sulphurdunn]

170. Criticizing

Republicans is like criticizing rats for being rats. You already know what they are. They will never be anything but rats. Their behavior is totally predictable. What's the point in endlessly pointing out the obvious? It's the rats you feed because you think they're cats you need to know about.

[lyonn]

107. As I recall he got health care laws passed.....nt

[jazzimov]

202. HE DID. Blame the responsible people.

Misplaced blame never did anyone any good.

[Marr]

44. The same goes for striking Syria and cutting Social Security, you know.

He made his offer on Social Security, repeatedly. The Republicans refused to take 'yes' for an answer. He tried to get authorization to strike Syria, but Congress appeared dead set against it.

[rhett o rick]

171. You seem to sneak "It certainly wasnt Obama's fault", into every post. You know it loses something

after while.

[jazzimov]

206. So whose fault was it?

I have learned that finding the root cause makes problem solving easier. As opposed to attributing everything to a "fall guy".

You DO want these problems solved, don't you? As opposed to some other agenda?

[rhett o rick]

211. Oh of course, but those that are soo enamored with Pres Obama that they cant see straight

offer nothing. They offer nothing but childish adoration for an idol. Ask them about anything and they will answer that they will support whatever Obama says to the death. It is intellectually sickening. Ask them how they feel about indefinite detention, the TPP, fracking, prosecuting Wall Street crimes, etc. And all they will do is say they accept Obama's decision. Their blind devotion is not the behavior of "politically liberal" thinking people.

[Liberal_Stalwart71]

241. He'll NEVER get credit so long as his skin is not white. You know it. I know it.

[snooper2]

2. I figure the government shutdown by repukes over the budget will be the "next big deal"

Watch what happens here

[JoePhilly]

3. He's NOT going to end the Iraq war!!!!

He's NOT going to end DADT!!!

Ok, he ended both ... But he didn't really want to do it!!!

[ozone_man]

210. U.S. multinationals control Iraq oil, hence war is over.

Mission accomplished. That was all that the war was about. Of course it's over, except for all the military bases we have there to make sure the oil is under our control.

Why exactly did we invade Iraq? Was it 911? WMDs? I don't think so. And out interest in Syria has little to do with humanitarian issues.

[JoePhilly]

234. Thanks for proving my point.

As a state Senator, Obama was against the invasion of Iraq.

As a candidate, he called for removing all our troops on a 16 month time line.

As President, he ended the Iraq war in 19 months.

But he should absolutely, positively, get no credit for doing so.

And so thanks again for proving my point.

[sharp_stick]

4. This is simplistic but

making angry noises in a pretty much anonymous environment makes small people feel big.

There's an old saying that on the internet everyone is a 6'6" black belt former Navy seal.

[Warren Stupidity]

5. Oh look another STFU post.

Sorry. Won't ignore the next revolting trial balloon nominee from this administration either. Nor, when the War Drums start banging, will I shut the fuck up. If we are silent we are doomed.

[n2doc]

6. +1000 n/t

[sharp_stick]

7. Yes that's exactly what it said

I can reach up there to the op and find exactly where it told Warren Stupidity to STFU.... oops maybe not.

[Skraxx]

8. Oh Look, Another "I Just Make Shit Up About Your Post Post"

Where did I say STFU? Please point it out, thanks.

Pointing out how foolish some people on this site are is not telling them to STFU, but you already knew that.

[Scurrilous]

146. Maybe he confused your post with this one (which actually told people to STFU):

http://www.democraticunderground.com/10023649167

And yes, he recommended it. LOL

[Skraxx]

157. LOL! Thats Awesome!

[Stellar]

160. Love it!!!

[Number23]

217. Don't forget this Jewel of Gibberish

http://www.democraticunderground.com/10023663739

I missed that thread when it was posted. I can think of few things that sum up DU3 and its diminished page views, prestige and quality of discourse better than that foolishness.

And at only 142 recs (which is quite low for something that pointlessly divisive which this forum eats with a knife and fork), I think even GD thought it was too much and if THAT don't say it all, nothing will.

[Scurrilous]

225. "Jewel of Gibberish" LOL

Bauble of Blather. Gem of Gobbledygook.

I like this response:

http://www.democraticunderground.com/?com=view_post&forum=1002&pid=3663858

[Kolesar]

11. I dunno. You *could* go work on an issues campaign now

Instead of waiting in your chair for a revolting trial balloon

[Cali_Democrat]

24. The 101st Chairborne Keyboard Warriors

They are convinced they stopped the war in Syria from behind their keyboards.

[Kolesar]

34. And convinced they got Snowden to safety! ... eom

[Cali_Democrat]

39. It's pure STUPIDITY!!

[Maedhros]

150. ...and still waiting for the thoughtful analyis [n/t]

[Maedhros]

148. In an earlier post you claimed you post analyses with your little insults an smilies...

Still waiting.

[IdaBriggs]

242. ^=== This. nt

[Warren Stupidity]

37. astoundingly enough, I can do many things over the course of a day

including posting on DU.

[Whisp]

22. well, it's not working so well, is it?

[cascadiance]

33. Yes, Right on! I'll keep YELLING ABOUT THE TPP!!! Because Obama isn't doing a DAMN THING about it!

like a REAL Democrat would do in terms of preserving our national sovereignty against a corporate coup, which is EXACTLY what that "bill" is!

You can keep claiming that he "didn't support it" if we yell loud enough to stop it that forces him to back off, but in my book, it's OUR JOB to make sure that we make enough noise to stop the corporate takeover that Obama's abetting if we don't yell loud enough.

[Skittles]

54. they have SO jumped the shark

according to them we just need to be quiet and our government will do the right thing!!

[Art_from_Ark]

184. Hey, didn't you know?

Silence is golden

[jazzimov]

207. NOPE! Just a reality check.

When all you hear are war drums, then you will never stop hearing them.

[polichick]

229. Well said.

[gopiscrap]

9. How about that!

[Tx4obama]

10. Pres Obama has been talking to Putin regarding a diplomatic solution re Syria since June 2012

I doubt the internet had anything to do with Obama's strategy/plan/solution regarding Syria.

And as far as Summers - Sen Merkley told the WH and Reid that FIVE Senators would vote no on Summers if he was the nominee. So, I doubt that the internet had anything to do with his withdrawing his name. Article here: http://www.democraticunderground.com/10023678408

-snip-

According to a senior Senate aide, Obama told Democrats that he had asked Kerry to reach out to Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and offer the diplomatic solution.

"He mentioned that that occurred during the G-20 meeting (a year ago), when he met with (Russian President Vladimir) Putin -- that he would assign Kerry to discuss diplomatic alternatives," added Sen. Dean Heller (R-Nev.).

A senior administration official confirmed to The Huffington Post that Obama and Putin first discussed the concept in Los Cabos at the G-20 in June 2012. After the first plenary session, while world leaders were mingling, Obama and Putin went to a corner of the room and spoke for nearly half an hour about Syria.

-snip-

Full article here: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/09/10/john-kerry-syria-solution_n_3901863.html

[Skraxx]

12. Shhh, It's More Fun My Way!

[Cha]

108. Yes, Pres Obama is quite capable of negotiating and making plans and decisions

without those yelling "warmonger" at him.

But, he also needs and wants our activism!

Thanks for the info, Tx

[sheshe2]

179. +1

[frylock]

149. did they talk about throwing David Cameron to the wolves?

[Celefin]

233. They never loved Dave

So, yes they planned that.
And on the US side, they also planned to play flustered, slightly shocked and pretty confused when the British parliament deflated Cameron... and boy did they pull that one off; not a chance of guessing that they were bluffing.

[frylock]

244. OSCARS all around!

[treestar]

13. That' so true, if they had an effect

like they claim they do, why aren't they happier with someone who listens to them and not the corporatists?

[leftstreet]

14. Who is 'they?' n/t

[Rex]

20. Doesn't really matter, just as long as there is somebody to hate.

Same kind of hatred we see from the GOP.

[Skraxx]

16. Shhh! Here's The Reason, Keep it to Yourself:

1. They realize he does this regardless of their complaints, and they don't like him, and that makes them angry that he is so smart and dedicated and compassionate, despite their whinging.
2. They like to complain on the internet because it gives them some sense of control over their unhappy lives (and yes, their negativity on the internet is usually an indication of their level of real life happiness, IMO. YMMV.)

[Isoldeblue]

156. Skraxx, that is so true!

[Bluenorthwest]

32. Remeber a few days ago when you said opposition to Summers was 'abject hatred' but

when asked to state one positive argument in favor of Summers you admitted you knew nothing about him? The Senate Banking Committee Democrats had already decided not to support him. This discussion started months ago. During those months, some of us organized opposition to Summers, while others were apparently unaware until Friday that this was going on.
Just saying. That was a wildly amusing conversation for me. You were so lost in the dust of a deal already done. 'But it's abject hatred!!!!'

[Vanje]

63. Well. TreeStar knows about Summers NOW.

Chock up another one for the educating effect of DU.
Its a win, no matter how you look at it.

TreeStar might even learn something about the TPP one day soon.

[Vanje]

209. Did you just call me a pompous asshole?

Whether I am, or not is not determined. Maybe I play a pomous ass on the internets. If so. Excellent. Thats theater! In real life, no one would class me that way.
Its because I have a goofy dumb looking face. It cant be helped.
...and I dumpster dive. Its hard to look really really pompous when everything south of your ass is hanging out of a garbage bin.

Its a sure thing, though, that I don't pretend to know everything.

I know some things, yep. and try to catch up on some others.

[QC]

235. "You have plenty of rights."

http://www.democraticunderground.com/10022947372#post283

[Capt. Obvious]

239. Ugh

[Vanje]

243. I see

Frankly, I'd rather be a "pompous asshole" than to be someone transparently disdainful of equal rights for all.

[Puglover]

247. Yep and I plan on repeating that particular gem

and "Latin America is but a cyst on the anus of the world" until either DU shuts down or I do.

[QC]

248. Those both should have been instant tombstones. n/t

[Rex]

18. You mad bro!?

Kinda foaming at the mouth there...did the Left take your pony?

[Skraxx]

35. Aww, Poor You, Am I Reminding You Of Some of your Failed Prognostications and Faux Outrage?

Making you ucnomfortable about how wrong you might have been? Over and over again?

[Rex]

40. The only person that seems to be uncomfortable (learn how to spell the word)

in here is you. YEP, you ARE mad bro.

[Skraxx]

43. Now Spelling Flames? Oh! The Humanity!

LOL! So facile.

[Rex]

46. Your projection aside

I only predicted he would nominate Summers...everything else I was right on the money, but I don't expect you to really understand that with all the foaming at the mouth.

[Skraxx]

51. So, You Were Wrong and Now You're Upset About It?

Got it. Have a cookie!

[Rex]

53. Not at all, I am glad Summers did not get the nod.

But you seem to be mad about it...why is that? Your narrative is very weak, go work on it and get back with me.

[Skraxx]

55. I'm Actually Laughing at all the Constant Outrage that turns out to be Bullshit

It seems you have partaken in much of it and now realize how foolish you've been. It's ok, as long as you self reflect and learn from your mistakes, it's all good. Sure you don't want a cookie? It will make you feel better!

[Rex]

58. I do? Your attempt to put words and ideas in my mouth is laughable.

No I think what is really going on here is that now you realize how completely silly your OP looks and now wish you had not posted it.

You probably could use a cookie, you sure seem mad bro. Maybe take a breather...the foaming is coming back.

[Skraxx]

62. It's Ok, You Don't Have to Be Ashamed of Being Wrong

Just accept it and learn from it. Really, it's all a part of life and learning and growing as a person.

[Rex]

64. The projection from you is making me LOL.

Keep it up! This is funny! Like you would know what learning from being wrong is all about!

[Skraxx]

68. See! Just Let it Go and Laugh! You Don't Have to be Embarrassed About Your Constant Outrage

Over stuff that turns out to be bullshit! It's funny! Laugh about it! Feels good, right? Maybe next time you won't believe every negative thing about Obama that some dipshit on the internet tells you! You'll learn eventually, you'll probably stumble a bit here and there, but ol' Skraxx will be around to help you out! Don't worry buddy, I'm there to get you through this! I promise!

[Rex]

71. But I am not constantly outraged, only YOU show signs of that in this OP.

Oh trust me, I never believe what some dipshit tells me about Obama. I want facts, not fauxoutrage like you. SO you are foaming mad at the people that are foaming mad? WOW, that is some intense stuff...you should seek help for your affliction.

[Skraxx]

73. You're Not Constantly Outraged?! Good to Hear!

Congratulations on your not-constantly-outragedness! Now we just have to work on your being embarrassed over the times you were outraged over bullshit. Really, it's no biggie! You dont' have be embarrassed, everyone makes mistakes. Just learn from them, pal! You can do it!

[Rex]

76. Yeah it only took you this many replies to figure that out.

Learning is not one of your strong points I see. Why are you so embarrassed about making mistakes? No reason to be. Must be the way you were raised. So sad.

[Skraxx]

81. Now Your Angry? No Need To Be Angry! I Thought You Were Laughing? Cheer Up Pal!

I like it when you're laughing! Laugh, buddy, laugh!

[Rex]

82. No I feel sad for you...clearly you are a very angry person.

Why is that?

[Skraxx]

88. Oh, Now You're Sad? From Laughing, To Angry, To Sad...You Sound a Bit Manic, Friend

That's too bad, try to be happy again! That's nice.

[Rex]

93. Like I said I feel sad for you because

you seem to be very mad over nothing. Must suck living life like that. Is it because you got pwned in this OP by so many people or are you just naturally an angry person?

[Skraxx]

96. Really, These Mood Swings of Yours Are Something You Should Have Looked In To

Try thinking happy thoughts!

[Rex]

97. So you are just going to stay angry over nothing?

How sad for you...please continue foaming at the mouth with the all caps. Maybe you won't get so pwned in your next OP.

[Skraxx]

99. Are You Coming On To Me?

What are you wearing?

[Rex]

101. You can change the subject if I made you feel uncomfortable about your anger

issues, I understand.

[Skraxx]

103. It's Clear You're Very Interested In Me, And I'm Flattered!

I appreciate the interest. Are you buff?

[Rex]

106. Wow, so you really are extremely mad.

Have you thought about professional counseling? There are anger management classes out there for your particular type of rage.

[Skraxx]

111. You're Cute, Especially When You're All Flustered!

Thong?

[Rex]

112. Ah projection again, my my my.

Don't feel ashamed.

[Skraxx]

113. Briefs?

Bikini?

[Rex]

114. Out of things to say? I understand, don't be embarrassed!

Your fake outrage over everyone else outrage is very entertaining.

[Skraxx]

115. Don't Be Shy!

You flirt you!

[Rex]

117. More nonsense?

Keep it up it is very entertaining watching you squirm all over the place in frustration.

[Skraxx]

118. You're Adorable, Like a Lil Puppy! Come Here Lil Fella!

That's it, sit! Beg! Reply!

[Rex]

119. Yes I know, you cannot quit because the rage prevents it.

Probably should check your blood pressure. Why you so mad bro?

[Skraxx]

120. Run! Fetch!

Reply!

[Rex]

122. Exactly, stay angry!

It will make it easier for people to ridicule you in later OPs.

[Skraxx]

123. Roll Over!

Good doggie!

Now kick!

[Rex]

124. You are shaking with anger and frustration and I am loving it!

[Skraxx]

125. Good Boy!

[Rex]

126. Must be horrible to be so mad all the time.

Why you so mad bro? No pony?

[Skraxx]

127. Have A Scooby Snack Lil' Guy!

You deserve it!

[Rex]

128. That makes as much sense as your OP does.

Did you check your blood pressure yet? You probably should I bet a vein is sticking out of your forehead right about now.

[Skraxx]

131. Now Stay, Stay...Fetch!

Good boy! Hey! That tickles, stop sniffing my crotch!

[Rex]

132. That actually makes more sense then your OP does.

It is good to see I can make you so angry that you start typing nonsensical sentences! I had no idea I had such power over feeble minds!

I take a bow for my efforts.

[Skraxx]

133. Cool! Bowing, That's A New Trick! Good Boy! Have a Cookie!

That's a good boy! I'll even rub your tummy!

[Rex]

135. No I am bowing to the audience for my efforts at making you look silly.

Not that I needed any help...you are on overdrive with frustration and anger...tsk tsk that is not healthy.

[Skraxx]

137. Such A Cutie! Here, Let Me Scratch That Spot That Makes Your Leg Move!

So cute! He can't help himself, isn't that funny?

[Rex]

140. I know you cannot help yourself, that is why you suffer from anger

problems.

[Skraxx]

151. Atta Boy! Kick It! kick it Good!

LOL

[Rex]

153. Oh you sneaky person you!

[NuclearDem]

163. Are you serious?

[Skraxx]

164. As a heart attack or clown shoes, whichever is more seriouser

I forget.

[Skittles]

181. STOP IT REX

[Rex]

187. Hey I had 30 minutes to kill

and had no idea he would run out of things to say in 10 minutes!

[Skittles]

200. I'll be avoiding Scooby Snacks, for sure

[Union Scribe]

216. Lol, exactly! nt

[Broward]

25. Well, it's too bad that we have to play defense

so often against a Dem president.

[NoOneMan]

26. "Why are we angry again?"

Um, to "make him do it".

[Agnosticsherbet]

27. If we are making him do it, then by being noisy we are doing the right thing...

And we need to shout louder.

If he is doing it because he is really on our side,
then we need to keep shouting so he knows what we want.

[Skraxx]

30. Is Someone Telling You Not To?

But on the same token, when someone listens to you, and seemingly takes your "advice" to heart and responds, shouldn't you also give them credit for doing so? For listening to YOU and not to another, possibly opposing viewpoint?

You know, credit where credit is due.

If you believe pressure from the Left was responsible for the President making a decision you support, shouldn't he get credit for that?

[Agnosticsherbet]

36. He gets credit for doing the right things, and condemnation for the wrong things.

That is called being a good citizen.

Though, we may at times not know if he did the right thing or the wrong thing until long after the event.

http://www.nbcnews.com/business/if-its-yellen-wall-street-gets-fed-chief-it-wanted-8C11166978

(It may be a long time before we know if Yellen is a good servant of the people or just another bankster.)

In any case, in a representative democratic republic, he is my employee not my leader. I can only lead by shouting what I want him to do. When the ship of state moves the right way, I applaud.

[Skraxx]

50. In Representative Democratic Republic he is NOT your "employee"

He is your "representative" and as such, is under no compunction to listen to you, but to do the job he was elected using his best judgment.

That it seems he DID listen, is commendable.

[cascadiance]

102. So a representative doesn't have to listen to those who he "represents"?

Or are we all missing the point that our system has been subverted so that it only LOOKS like these representatives "represent" us when they actually represent those more with MONEY to reward those that help them get elected in our currently subverted system that is masquerading as a government that represents its citizenry without regard to economic class and power.

[Skraxx]

110. Is That What I Said?

I said it appears he listened to the political Left. That's a good thing, no?

He should listen to everyone but make decisions using his best judgement and all information available. That's what I voted for him to do. I didn't vote for him thinking he would listen to ME and do what I want on EVERY issue. That's naive.

[markpkessinger]

129. Perhaps not in so many words . .

. . . but you yourself stated, in message # 55 of this thread: "I'm Actually Laughing at all the Constant Outrage that turns out to be Bullshit." Well, if in fact the President has "listened to the left," then you should, if you are intellectually honest, conceded that it wasn't bullshit. You cannot simultaneously claim these were all non-issues, and yet claim the President has "listened to the left" concerning those same issues.

[Skraxx]

136. Or Not At All

[markpkessinger]

141. Then which is it?

I mean, at least you should be intellectually honest enough to admit that you are trying to argue two contradictory points in this thread (namely (1) that all of these issues are really bullshit non-issues; and (2) that no, the left should have spoken up each time because President Obama "listened" to them. You can have one or the other, but not both.

[frazzled]

74. Remember, Obama was forced to pull Van Jones, Goodwin Liu, and other progressives

he nominated. A bunch of them, in fact (the other names I don't remember offhand). Or they pulled themselves, who knows. But it was because they didn't have the votes (conservative votes) in Congress to pass, and it would have been a long and protracted battle when other things needed to get done.

But I'd be wary about overestimating the power of the left in sending messages to the WH or Congress in this case. Remember, it is mainly Wall Street that didn't want Larry Summers, in a big way. And they count for a million times more with Congressional members than anyone on the left does.

[alc]

29. lack of trust is a problem

The fact that so many of these "rumors" were believable means Obama doesn't have a plan that people understand.

Who knows what to expect from Obama? What's a rumor? A trial balloon? A plan? A multi-dimensional chess move that nobody else understands?

Makes it hard to rally support from citizens, dem politicians, and impossible to negotiate with repub politicians (if he want's to get anything done in the next year+ he has to negotiate with the house). Nobody is going to want to work with him and support him this week to find out next week that they were just being used.

[Agnosticsherbet]

45. The problem with understanding a plan is that President Obama will always have more information

then we do. That is the nature of a representative democratic republic. He is our representative in the executive branch elected to make the big decisions.

The problem with trust is that trust is the most fragile of all substances. Even if he does the right thing, and we think he did the wrong thing, that fragile trust is broken, and once broken it is a lot like Humpty-Dumpty.

[hlthe2b]

59. We expected to have to fight tooth and nail under GWB* to avoid enacting horrendously harmful

policies and legislation. I think many of us felt we had deserved at least a miniscule break from that under Obama--whose rhetoric and stated positions surely suggested we "might relax" just a bit.

That we are having to remain nearly every bit as vigilant--in contrast to his stated positions--is exhausting and has further eroded trust, I do agree. I know that all Presidents are in an isolated bubble and there is always a risk that the big moneyed and powerful interests will have his ear over the people. With Obama, I felt we could retain confidence that he would fight those interests, nonetheless and not float their policies and "trial balloons"... That we have had to fight against our own party's President so often and so vigorously rightfully leaves many angry or at least somewhat disillusioned.

Maybe it is because we aren't hearing the full story, but if that is the case, I have to fault the administration for that as well.

[markpkessinger]

56. If the left hadn't made so much noise about Summers . . .

. . . Summers wouldn't have withdrawn his name and the President very likely would have nominated him. Sorry, you don't get to spin the President's mind-boggling affection for Larry Summers as "11-Dimensional Chess."

[Skraxx]

57. Uhh, You Didn't Read The OP, Did You?

I'm giving the Left credit. Try reading something before you respond, 'kay?

[markpkessinger]

75. Uhh, yes I did . . .

. . . The entire post was about trying to portray those of us who were concerned about these various issues, and who spoke up LOUDLY, as being hysterical, hair-on-fire, panic-mongers. But you know, you can't have it both ways. If, in fact, the President "listens to the left," as you suggest, then it's a damned good thing some of us did raise our voices when we did. If, on the other hand, his handling of each of these various issues was part of some brilliant, eleven-dimensional chess strategy, then no, he isn't listening to the left at all, but is rather following his own (amazingly telepathic and clairvoyant) strategy. Which is it?

And I would add also that when it first came to light that Summers was under serious consideration, the attitude of folks in your camp was to dismiss the concern, saying, "Summers hasn't been formally nominated yet." IN other words, folks like you were telling us to STFU even then. If we had, Summers would likely now be the nominee. As I said to someone at the time, I preferred not to wait until his nomination was a fait accompli.

[Skraxx]

78. Reading Comprehension Must Not Be Your Strong Suit

Where did I tell people not to raise their voices?

I say just the opposite, but we should give credit where it's due when he listens.

[markpkessinger]

84. I'm not sure it is "listening" when . . .

. . . he merely realizes he doesn't have the votes to get Summers confirmed in a week when he can ill-afford, politically, to lose another major public battle. That's not "listening to the left" so much as saving his own political hide. (And there's nothing wrong with saving his own political hide, but let's not spin that into something other than it really is.)

[Skraxx]

92. I Love It That You Can Read Obama's Mind! That's So Cool! Can You Teach Me How To Do That?

Does it work for everyone, or do you just have a special bond with Obama?

[markpkessinger]

100. I'm draiwing my conclusion based on what I believe is the most plausible one based on events . . .

. . . not reading his mind. ( But come to think of it, since so many here seem to think President Obama can read the minds of not only Republicans, but foreign leaders such as Putin and Assad and Cameron, then it seems to me that turnabout is only fair play.)

[Skraxx]

161. Ahh Yes, The."Plausible" Explanation for all of Obamas Actions

That the Left should applaud is that he didn't really WANT to do it, but the powerful Left gave him no choice, or he was lucky. Iraq. Syria. DADT. Summers. Etc. The plausible explanation involves no credit to Obama, who ultimately made the decisions. That's plausible.

[markpkessinger]

165. Plausibility is a far more convincing basis for argument than appeals to "Obama the Omniscient" n/t

[Skraxx]

169. And people claim he's omniscient......where?

[markpkessinger]

185. It was hyperbole, just as much of your OP is...

You caricature each of the positions you deride as having been 'bullshit':

"HE'S GONNA CUT SS" -- Actually, we expressed our very strong disapproval over the FACT that the President had included chained CPI in his budget proposal. If it really wasn't the President's plan to include it, then it was an incredibly reckless risk in gambling that the GOP would save him from his own proposal. To say the President deserves credit . . . for what, exactly? If he did intend to include chained CPI, then it was indefensible. If he didn't, then he was taking a needless gamble. I fail to see where particular 'credit' is due the President over this issue.

"HE'S GONNA INVADE SYRIA" -- Everybody here understood that an invasion was not part of his official plan. But many of us were concerned that even a limited military engagement could rapidly escalate. We were concerned about the FACT that he was pressing the case for the U.S. to undertake a violation of international law. We recognized, too, that the U.S. would have a major credibility problem with the rest of the world as regards its high moral dudgeon over the use of chemical weapons.

"HE'S NEVER GONNA LEAVE IRAQ" -- No. The concern was that the President's plan called for a substantial force to remain behind in Iraq for an indefinite period. And yes, we have (mostly, not entirely) left Iraq, but that was at the insistence of the Iraqi government, and was not what President Obama was planning on. So what, I"m supposed to give him a gold star for NOT defying the express wishes of the Iraqi government?

"HE'S NEVER GONNA END DADT" -- Well, I never made that argument, so I can't speak to it. In fact, I was 100% supportive of the President's handling of that issue, and as a gay man myself, I give him all the credit in the world for it. (Guess that kind of pokes a whole in your theory that we're all out to criticize the President no matter what he does.) Actually, though, this points to yet another way in which you totally caricature those who dare to criticize the President: that is, you lump all of these unrelated issues together, implying that it is the same group that is uniformly opposed to the President across all of these issues. That simply isn't the case (Although I realize that such a theory serves to buttress the Palace Guard's collective fantasy that anybody who criticizes the President on any front is nothing but a detractor seeking to bring him down on all fronts, and that this fantasy, in turn enables the Palace Guard from ever having to seriously consider any substantive criticism, because they have already dismissed it all as being nothing but nay-saying. Convenient that.)

"HE'S GONNA NOMINATE SUMMERS" -- So, are you seriously suggesting that Summers was NOT the leading contender, even after the President made a point to mount a vigorous defense of him in a meeting with members of Congress? And in any case, Summers withdrew his own name from consideration, so how does that accrue to the President's credit? The very disturbing fact remains that the President was very seriously considering him. And that is disturbing enough in and of itself.

The suggestion that the President "listens and responds to" the political left is, I'm sorry to say, laughable. If that were indeed the case, he would never have appointed people like Geithner and Summers to his economic team in the first place. He is, rather, a shrewd enough politician (most of the time) to recognize when he is about to run his political ship aground, and to make a necessary course correction. (And that's an admirable skill for a political leader.)

[Skraxx]

189. You Must Be Confused, Obama Is Apparently Only Making Decisions

That the Left forces him to make, or that he lucks into. Unless they disagree, then he's doing what he really wants to further pnac and the corporate oligarchy. He never does anything of his own volition and smarts.

Or is it actually just a wee.bit more nuanced than that? Nahh, Obama's just a corporate tool. Uless the left forces him not to be. Or something.

[cthulu2016]

80. A better question is whether you wrote one.

The OP is so disingenuous and full of BOG nervous tics that it's hard to decipher.

Perhaps this comment by you in this thread provides useful background reading suggestive of the stupidly-smug and hateful intent of the OP, as written.

"I'm Actually Laughing at all the Constant Outrage that turns out to be Bullshit"

Laugh away.

[Rex]

83. Not really he is just really, really mad and is projecting it onto others.

I guess he really wanted Summers as Fed chairmen.

[Skraxx]

85. So, The Left is Not Responsible for Stopping Obama's Corporate Machinisms?

And his warmongering? I thought they were responsible and he listened to them?

[cthulu2016]

90. Yes, I am going to marry a carrot.

[Skraxx]

94. I Love Wedding! I'll Bring a Date, I Just Met an Adorable Cabbage I've Been Meaning to Ask Out

Assuming of course I'm invited!

[Rex]

95. ...

[cherokeeprogressive]

66. Shit? Spoon. Spoon? Shit.

Introductions made...

Stir away.

[Rex]

67. The foam is strong in this one...

nt.

[truebluegreen]

143. Oh bleah

new keyboard...(cough cough)

[SidDithers]

72. Careful. The perpetually outraged don't like it...

when you shine the spotlight on them.

Sid

[RetroLounge]

212. Is that what he's doing?

RL

[mick063]

77. Dumbest post ever.

N/t

[Rex]

79. I've seen dumber, but not by much.

nt.

[Boom Sound 416]

142. ...

[Rex]

144. LOL!

[Boom Sound 416]

147. I couldn't resist

Thought you might find that funny

[Rex]

152. That was great timing!

[Boom Sound 416]

154. They say it's everything

Now I have to go back to the OP and see if we agree...oh yeah it's the stfu one. We agree.

[Rex]

155. Thanks I needed that.

You do have great timing!

[Douglas Carpenter]

109. thank God for the Left that does keep the pressure on and at least prevents the worse. I would

hate to imagine how things would be without that pressure. This is what democracy is all about

[shenmue]

130. We've got to have something up our collective wazoo

Or else something isn't right.

[MyNameGoesHere]

139. I actually tire of being a moral compass for politicians.

One would think they are capable of it.

[AtheistCrusader]

158. I'm only angry with the initial plan.

Threatening to bomb Syria is arguably a UN charter violation. By itself.

That, in my opinion, should not have been the first option. But I am grateful that he seems to have listened. Brinkmanship is hazardous. I don't like that we are doing it.

And at the end of the day, chemical weapons out of the picture, the PEOPLE of Syria really aren't any better off.

[Snake Plissken]

159. Even though none of this happen, I'm sure there is atleast 20% of the population that believe it did

These people still believe Saddam Hussein was responsible for 911, reality is not of much importance to them.

[stupidicus]

162. Odd, he did put SS/Medicare cuts on the table, as well as an illegal strike on Syria

just because neither have yet to occur hardly makes them any less damning

ANd just because he was compelled to leave Iraq http://www.nationaljournal.com/u-s-troop-withdrawal-motivated-by-iraqi-insistence-not-u-s-choice-20111021 is just as meaningless the rest of your whine.

[Skraxx]

166. He hasn't blown up the moon YET either, but I hear its on the same table

Right next to the candied yams. Mmmm. Yams.

It's funny cuz I said yams.

[stupidicus]

174. thanks for conceding the validity of my observations and accompanying remarks

I always find these projection efforts on the part of your crew highly amusing.

As I recall, the complaints about his putting chained cpi/Med cuts on the table was intially met with complete denials he'd even done it by your crew, and the complaints themselves weren't geared towards whether or not they'd actually occur, because nobody could know whether they would be or not. The complaint was that he was for it, as he appears to remain as far as I know http://americablog.com/2013/02/barack-obama-social-security-and-medicare-cuts-are-very-much-back-on-the-table.html

As I recall, the complaint was that he wanted to keep troops in Iraq as linked to, not whether he'd be able to or not.

As I recall, the complaint about Syria were many, not the least of which was his willingness to ignore the "rule of law" his breaching of it (by going in without UN approval if need be) would be, to insist upon observance of "the rule of law" on the part of Syria.

None of us that lodged those complaints were or are "wrong" about any of it, despite the best efforts of "the crew" to paint that kinda picture.

and all the pathetic dodging in the world ain't gonna change any of this either.

but please continue.

[Skraxx]

178. Did You Recall The Candied Yams?

They're on the table, we should be careful if there's a recall.

[stupidicus]

192. further concessions/examples of your impotence

weren't really solicited that strongly, but are indeed welcomed

please continue

[Skraxx]

193. Now You're Soliciting Me?

Well sailor, whaddaya got?

[stupidicus]

201. showcasing your abysmal reading comp skills won't help either

like most rightwingnuts, you are merely showing that being the best witness for your own prosecution is your only apparent strong suit, and is not something they have a monopoly on. The "last word" game you seem to be steering to is one of the most stupid of all.

There are few things more amusing than those who effectively resort to this

so please continue

[Nite Owl]

167. Social Security /CPI

was offered for this negotiation, yes, he offered it, put it on the table.

[Skraxx]

172. And it's been cut exactly .......never by Obama

I know fantasists love to live in their little fantasy worlds where they nurture their gripes and negativity, but here in reality, its results that matter.

But have fun with your bitter pointless impotent griping about your imaginary table!

[Marr]

173. Must be something in the BOG water.

I've noticed a lot of its denizens have this same hyperventilating, half-caps, frantic ranting style. It seems unhinged.

[rhett o rick]

177. And they come out only to disparage the left and disrupt. Dont they recognize that is playing into

the hands of the right? Dont bother to answer, it's a rhetorical question.

You know their "sign"? It looks like this

[Marr]

226. lol! Yep.

I swear to god, I picture that symbol on a flag, with a bunch of snarling maniacs charging out of a bog when I see one of these threads.

[Vanje]

246. ....and now, I do too

and am amused
Thanks!

[WilliamPitt]

175. . . . . . . .

[rhett o rick]

176. So do I understand that you are disparaging the left? Isnt that helping the right?

Tell us what policies or issues that the left supports that you dont.

I am guessing that you dont think you need the left's support to elect Ms. Clinton. You are counting on the right for help.

[Skraxx]

180. Honey, I Know U Probably Think You're All that as far as the Left is Concerned

But we lefty's actually accomplish stuff. That doesn't happen here. Obama? Now there's an actual lefty who actually accomplishes stuff. But I'm sure your having fun kicking up sand in your little sand box! It's very cute if not impotent

[rhett o rick]

182. Your childish response is just silly. You are disparaging the left. Obama isnt on the left.

Must I remind you he is good friends with Penny Pritzker, the female Romney?

Disparaging the left is helping the right. Is that your goal?

[Skraxx]

183. Ridiculing and laughing at dead enders is a reward unto itself!

[LondonReign2]

188. Childish, condescending, and stupidly wrong

You're doing wonders for the arguments on your side.

But disrupting and disparaging actual progressives is your aim here, so quite successful in the that regard. Embarrassing for you, but that's a small price to pay, eh?

[Skraxx]

190. Stupid! Wrong! Smash! Obama bad! Me smash!

[LondonReign2]

194. Wow. Keep up the stupid, you're doing great

[Skraxx]

196. Stupid stupid stupid?

Stupid? Stupid! ROFL!

[LondonReign2]

197. If I wanted to argue with a person with the mentality of a 3rd grader I'd talk

to my Kindergartner. Bye bye Skraxx, you're an embarrassment to the BOG, and that's saying something. It's sad when there are folks at Free Republic able to use logic better than you.

[Skraxx]

199. Stupid? BOG!!!!

ROFL

[NuclearDem]

204. Posting while intoxicated is generally discouraged.

[Rex]

223. But can be funny at times.

nt.

[markpkessinger]

224. That has pretty much been his tone throughout this thread

Condescension, needless personal insults, etc.

[Marr]

232. He's quickly becoming a legend. A...

[La Lioness Priyanka]

186. LOL. love the pretzel logic.

[joshcryer]

191. DUers don't think he should have "put everything on the table."

Even though it was his campaign promise.

DUers don't think that we should have to "put his feet to the fire."

Even though that was his campaign promise.

They just want Obama to read our minds and never offer up anything or do anything we'd disagree with.

[LondonReign2]

195. Do you think a Democratic President should have put

SS cuts on the table?

[Skraxx]

198. Where os this confounded table I keep hearing so mich about?

It's not on my kitchen, dammit!

[rhett o rick]

227. Silly question. If President Obama privatized SS the "Group" would rejoice. After all he knows best

[RetroLounge]

213. Just when I thought I'd seen the most stupid posts ever on DU

this OP comes along...



RL

[silvershadow]

214. Not sure the exact premise of your post, but I'd like to think it was only because I and many others

called, wrote, faxed, emailed their reps. Yeah, in fact I am seeing news stories to that effect.

[Union Scribe]

215. Lol, feel better now?

Now that you've let those meanie lefties have it (again)? Now that you've struck a blow for the O? Maybe now you can join the rest of us in celebrating these victories instead of pouting that people you don't like got their way.

[grahamhgreen]

220. As soon as he says thank you to us:)

[bravenak]

222. Because my cousin just got married to his boyfriend.

Because my other cousin got a double organ transplant through Obamacare.
Because my friends are returning from Afganistan.
Because my neighbor can now get all of her medication, Obama's fault you know.
Because Osama bin Ladin gave me actual nightmares and he's dead now.
Because I have folks I love who are dreamers and they aren't being deported.
Because he's changing mandatory minimums.
Because if he doesn't do everything we want right away then we know he's evil.
Because people here are mind readers.
Because he doesn't invite us to his parties.
Because he's the best president we've had in my short lifetime.
Because we have to hate our democratic president until we get a republican, then we will be happy.

[JackRiddler]

230. Pretzel logic.

Every time some ridiculous idea floated by the administration - chained CPI, Larry Summers, bombing Syria (not over yet) - is shot down by opposition, you think the credit accrues to the administration? This is sick, masochistic pretzel logic. The credit in each case goes to those who oppose the fucked-up proposals, not to those who made them but backed down.

[cui bono]

231. What a juvenile and myopic OP.

[JoePhilly]

236. You've dared to mock their Wheel Of Outrage.

And they're not very happy about it.

[LWolf]

240. RTTT happened.

Chained CPI, if he gets his way, will happen.

The TPP, if he gets his way, will happen.

Afghanistan is still happening.

Further privatization of public education has happened, and been supported and applauded.

I could go on.

[NuttyFluffers]

245. since silence = consent i will gladly choose dissent every time.

and every time something unwanted does not occur, i will thank dissent, not silence.

silent faith in a personality is misplaced civic responsibility in a representative government.

[AgingAmerican]

249. The only thing more pointless than this OP

...is the ridiculous attempts by it's author to 'defend' it.

I guess when you doom yourself to defending the indefensible, all you have to work with is mindless snark.

[Jamaal510]

250. K&R

[Raksha]

251. It's not because he didn't try all three of those things.

Obama gets NO credit from me for what the people did in spite of him.