H2O Man Survey

[H2O Man]

I have a brief "survey" that I am hoping DUers will take a moment to complete. The questions can be answered with either a "Yes" or "No." If you would like to add any comment after that, it is fine. There are no "wrong" answers to this survey: it is merely a measure of people’s opinions. My interest today is to see if DUers view the congress as a co-equal branch of the federal government, or if they view it as having been reduced to the approximate level as a high school student council. I appreciate your taking the time to answer these questions.



(1) Does Congress have the power to end the Bush-Cheney war in Iraq?

{2} Does Congress now have the authority that the Founding Fathers intended when they authored the Constitution?

{3} Do you call/write/e-mail your representatives in the House and Senate frequently?

{4} Have you ever read "Profiles in Courage" by John F. Kennedy?

{5} Are you satisfied in general with the job that democrats are doing in congress since January?

[madokie]

1. Anytime

1 = yes
2 = yes
3 = yes
4 = no
5 = sorta, If pinned down I would have to say no

[meegbear]

2. ...

1. Yes
2. Always ave
3. No
4. Yes
5. Yes

[KoKo]

3. Could you post it as a poll?

:shrug:

[texpatriot2004]

4. Hi there H2O man

1) Yes
2) Yes
3) Yes
4) No
5) Not so much - I don't think they are being aggressive enough with the Exec. branch and its blatant in-your-face obstruction. Furthermore, I do not understand the reticence to impeach now. I think they are still being too nice and too patient and they should use the authority they have or lose it to this criminal cabal who took up residency in the WH.

[ThomWV]

5. (1) Yes, (2) Yes, (3)Yes, (4)No, (5)No. IMPEACH!

[leftchick]

45. ditto!!!!

I always meant to read Profiles. Apparently now is the time. :)

[sendero]

6. ok

(1) Does Congress have the power to end the Bush-Cheney war in Iraq?
Yes it does. It doesn't however, have the political will it would seem.

{2} Does Congress now have the authority that the Founding Fathers intended when they authored the Constitution?

No, they have allowed this "unitary executive" nonsense to go too far already so precedents are now set. It will take real work to restore the balance.

{3} Do you call/write/e-mail your representatives in the House and Senate frequently?
No, I live in Texas. It is a waste of time to talk to my Reps, they are largely morons.

{4} Have you ever read "Profiles in Courage" by John F. Kennedy?
No.

{5} Are you satisfied in general with the job that democrats are doing in congress since January?
No. Democrats have missed opportunity after opportunity to stop the Bush machine. So far, a lot of bluster and threats, no meaningful action.

[hobbit709]

7. Mine

1-4 Yes
5-Sort of (but could use lots of improvement)

[mod mom]

8. Gladly:

1. yes
2. yes
3. yes call, email and snail mail (most recently on habeas corpus and the Levin Reed ammendment)
4. no
5. no I am frustrated beyond belief, most recently with the 97-0 backing of the LIEberman vote on Iran, which literally brought me to tears.
I find myself more and more alienated from my party. I believe that although Sen Harry Reid may be a good man, his mild manner demeanor may not make him tough enough to stand up to the cabal of criminals ( I really believe this) that have stolen the elections to take control of the government and are planning to move their despicable agenda ahead at all costs.

[Ghost in the Machine]

9. done...

1 = Yes
2 = Yes
3 = Yes
4 = No
5 = No (but that's just me personally, and I have a vindictive personality. I think Democrats need to just backhand every one of these enabling repukes every time they open their mouths and lie, then firmly remind them to STFU because they are the minority party now and they've done enough damage to this Country since 2001.)

[unhappycamper]

10. moi:

1 = yes
2 = yes
3 = yes
4 = no
5 = Too early to say. Last night was the first time Dems have done anything substantial about the continued occupation. The bastards caved on the last supplemental and I'm still having a hard time with that.

[tnlurker]

11. my answers

1. yes
2. yes
3. yes
4. no
5. not yet but the media is not helping this situation.

[mohinoaklawnillinois]

12. Here ya go, H2OMan

1. Yes

2. No

3. Yes, I tend to call/write/e-mail Dick Durbin the most. Barack Obama not so much. I'm beginning to have my doubts about him. I don't even bother with my DINO Congresscritter, Dan Lipinski, IL 03. He's beyond useless.

4. Yes. I originally read it in 7th grade, during 1965, as part of our civics class, but have re-read it many times since.

5. Yes, the House especially. However, the Senate is another story. Harry Reid is trying the best he can, but dealing with obstructionist Pukes and the quisling Lieberman, makes his job all that much harder.

[MuseRider]

13. Here you go

(1) Does Congress have the power to end the Bush-Cheney war in Iraq?

Yes

{2} Does Congress now have the authority that the Founding Fathers intended when they authored the Constitution?

Yes

{3} Do you call/write/e-mail your representatives in the House and Senate frequently?

They are on speed dial, not that it helps much but they do know who I am.

{4} Have you ever read "Profiles in Courage" by John F. Kennedy?

A long time ago, could stand to read it again.

{5} Are you satisfied in general with the job that democrats are doing in congress since January?

NO NO NO NO NO

[JacquesMolay]

14. (1) Yes - through witholding funds

(2) No - Bush is subverting it by openly flouting the law (e.g. wiretapping) and using signing statements.
(3) No
(4) No
(5) No

[gademocrat7]

15. Yes to 1,2,4

No to 3. I live in Georgia and our representatives are rethugs.
No to 5. They need to end the war and impeach the shrub cabal.

[annabanana]

16. ok

1) yes

2) no. .I think they have ceded some of their legitimate power.. They COULD get it back.

3) Yes all the goddam time.. On speed dial...fax... They are sick to death of me.

4) Yes,Years ago.

5) Yes. I think they are, for the most part, working hard against significant obstacles, not the least of which is our shamefully compromised media

[Hubert Flottz]

17. no, no, yes, no, no,

They don't have the power, because they don't choose to use it.

[KharmaTrain]

18. Here's My "Five Questions"

(1) Does Congress have the power to end the Bush-Cheney war in Iraq?

Since Congress was vested with the power to declare war, it also has the power to end it. The Executive only operates in "war mode" when the authorization is granted by Congress in a Declaration of War...and reserves the right to withdraw it.

{2} Does Congress now have the authority that the Founding Fathers intended when they authored the Constitution?

The Congress has been abdicating powers to the Executive since the Whiskey Rebellion and the Alien and Sedition acts. The fact Senators are now elected rather than selected also points to fundamental change as well. Now, pointing to the past 6 years, the answer is obvious that the Executive ran roughshod over a compliant Legislative and is attempting to codify and solidfy their new powers. I can't see any of the Founding Fathers looking upon what's taken place and condoning the abuses that have gone on.


{3} Do you call/write/e-mail your representatives in the House and Senate frequently?

Yes...getting "face time" where I can. Now would you consider working on campaigns as having direct contact?

{4} Have you ever read "Profiles in Courage" by John F. Kennedy?

I first saw it on TV in the 60's and read it several times in High School and college. The Edmund Ross story still sticks in my mind.

{5} Are you satisfied in general with the job that democrats are doing in congress since January?

Mixed bag. I understand the hole Democrats had dug themselves in...being shut out of much House activity during the DeLay regime. There was a learning curve as the party went from minority to majority and getting "comfortable in ones skin". It faced an already organized opposition and it's taken time to meet that challenge. I do think Pelosi has done a great job in guiding the House through the changes and forming a working majority that has passed out a lot of good legislation. Having control of the agendas and the committees have turned this body from a cesspool of corporate corruption into one of positive change again.

The Senate is a trickier wicket...as with a narrower majority it was all but assured that there would be difficult fights. The "bi-partisan" game played at the outset just bought this regime more time to stonewall and kick cans down the road and the Senate has been the problem. Senator Reid tried to play nice but got screwed and now it looks like his spine has stiffened...he knows there's a wind at his back now he didn't feel before. Let's see how he uses it to break the fillibusters and then confront booosh and his vetos directly.

As a "student" of history and politics, I didn't expect the Congress to turn on a dime...but I did expect the majorities to bring an atmosphere of change to Congress...which is has. In these dark hours, I see some very good things that can happen. The on-going implosion of the Repugnicans creates the greatest chance for Democrats having control of both Houses and the Executive with a solid working majority...the first time since the 60's...where some the the best legislation of our time was enacted.

Thank you for all your posts and always am interested in your analysis.

:toast:

[Sherman A1]

19. Okay

1. 2. 3 = Yes (with 2 being they have the power, I am not sure that they are using it as well as could be)
4 = No
5 = I would like to see the Democrats in Congress be More aggressive in their pursuit of the truth and use the Sergeant At Arms to Compel Testimony if necessary.

[porphyrian]

20. Let me answer before I read anyone else's responses...

(1) Does Congress have the power to end the Bush-Cheney war in Iraq?
Yes, Congress generally has that power. This Congress, however, seems remarkably slow to acknowledge or employ its power to stop a blatantly criminal administration through the most obvious Constitutionally-prescribed method, though, so perhaps they don't have the power because they believe they don't have it.

{2} Does Congress now have the authority that the Founding Fathers intended when they authored the Constitution?
Yes, though, again, they seem unwilling to employ it for a handful of excuses that don't hold up. If they believe they are powerless, they will act powerless.

{3} Do you call/write/e-mail your representatives in the House and Senate frequently?
I contact them around once a month nowadays, with maybe an extra one if something specific is being considered.

{4} Have you ever read "Profiles in Courage" by John F. Kennedy?
No, but it's on my long list of catch-up reading.

{5} Are you satisfied in general with the job that democrats are doing in congress since January?
No, though I do give them credit for what they have achieved. Our government is careening out of control with madmen at the wheel. I want(ed) Congress to stop them, as they are in the best position to do so non-violently. They have been either unwilling or unable (perhaps because they don't know better or simply believe they cannot) to do so, and we're nearly out of time.

[EVDebs]

21. All yes with some reservations...

1. Yes, same as with Vietnam, by cutting funds and altering the AUMF

2. Yes, but just barely--with SCOTUS Alito & Roberts, both Reagan-era rubberstamps for executive orders for martial law, it's a tossup

3. Yes, I'm a paininthearse on certain issues, mainly sewer/infrastructure changes that need made; composting toilets instead of big-pipe expansions of existing lines that line pockets of engineers/developers but rob taxpayers in the long run. EPA needs to wake up and go with the 'small flows' they speak about but don't fund.

4. Yes, but long ago, I mostly remember the Charles Evans Hughes story. I'll re-read.

5. Yes, satisfied in general but we progressives need a MAJORITY in Congress; time will tell.

[napi21]

22. Here ya go.

1. yes
2. yes
3. yes
4. yes
5. no

As to #5, Bruce Fines statement on Moyers Journal said it best. "We have NO STATESMEN left in Congress! What we need is for a handful of Congressmen & Senators to care MORE about the Constitution than they do about re-election!" When referring to the Judicial hearings with Gonzo and his ilk, Bruce said all you would need in response to the "I can't talke about that" is for the Chairman to say Just a minute sir, this is a Democracy NOT a Dictatorship! WE have the RIGHT to this information, and YOU have the OBLIGATION to answer the questions!" If that statement would have been made in THAT TONE, they would have gotten their answers! THAT's the reason I'm not satisfied with the Dems. I do believe they THINK they're trying to do what they promised.

[jean]

23. my pleasure ...

(1) Does Congress have the power to end the Bush-Cheney war in Iraq?
Yes

{2} Does Congress now have the authority that the Founding Fathers intended when they authored the Constitution?
No (Bush-Cheney Inc. has done and continues to do serious damage)

{3} Do you call/write/e-mail your representatives in the House and Senate frequently?
Yes (call and email)

{4} Have you ever read "Profiles in Courage" by John F. Kennedy?
Yes (Years ago. DU should launch a group reading and discussion of this great book)

{5} Are you satisfied in general with the job that democrats are doing in congress since January?
No (They are not doing enough to assert the role of the Congress)


Comment: The corporate media (Republican Sound Machine) continues to control the country. There needs to be major effort on our part to use the internet and all of its creative power to push back. We've got a good foothold but need to crank it up.

[many a good man]

24. Student Council! ROFL!

{1} Does Congress have the power to end the Bush-Cheney war in Iraq?
Of course, but only through the power of the purse and by shaping public opinion (see 5). Though Senate Republicans would filibuster and we'd have to shut down the govt to get it to pass.

{2} Does Congress now have the authority that the Founding Fathers intended when they authored the Constitution?
Absolutely not. Ever since the beginning of the Cold War and our emergence as a world power, the Executive has acceded more and more power.

{3} Do you call/write/e-mail your representatives in the House and Senate frequently?
Yes, but I don't think it does much good as they are all liberal democrats and nearly always vote the way I wish. I wish I had Republicans instead because THEY are the ones with the power to turn everything around. THEY are the ones that need to be called.

{4} Have you ever read "Profiles in Courage" by John F. Kennedy?
Long time ago. Why are you asking?

{5} Are you satisfied in general with the job that democrats are doing in congress since January?
NEVER be satisfied! The fight never ends. My biggest complaint is that they are not doing enough to publicize the misdeeds of this administration and the abject failure of movement conservatism.

[Lilith Velkor]

25. OK

1. Yes. The trick is to do it in a way that minimizes political blowback in a hostile media climate.

2. Hell if I know. A lot of bullshit has been spread about said intent, and I think we need a new Constitutional Convention anyway.

3. No, but I occasionally show up in person at their offices.

4. No, but it's been on my lengthy "to read" list for a few years.

5. Not so much.

[OPERATIONMINDCRIME]

26. 1. Yes. 2. Yes. 3. When Necessary 4. No 5. Absolutely. I'm Proud Of Them. They've Done A Lot.

They aren't perfect, of course, and there are things I wish they had handled better, but overall I'm proud of them for what they've already accomplished, seek to accomplish, and for all the obstruction they've had to face.

[blondeatlast]

27. 1. Yes, technically. But Bush/Cheney will find a way to subvert that power.

2. As of now, yes. Once the House Judiciary contempt citations get to the SCOTUS, I'm afraid that they won't.

3. Yes, but mine are all Bushbots (Shadegg has rational moments occasionally) and calling is generally an exercise in futility I reserve only for the most important legislation.

4. No--thanks for shaming me (just kidding--will do!) :hi:

5. All in all, yes. I want us out of Iraq, I want impeachment, I want the corruption of the Bush cabal exposed, of course, but they have a tremendous burden to bear. I want everything done with I's dotted and T's crossed so there is no wiggle room for the Administration.

[Hissyspit]

28. Me:

(1) Yes.

{2} Yes.

{3} Some.

{4} Bits and pieces.

{5} No.

[bryant69]

29. Response

(1) Does Congress have the power to end the Bush-Cheney war in Iraq? Yes, by cutting off funding. But such a step would be difficult politically for them to take.

{2} Does Congress now have the authority that the Founding Fathers intended when they authored the Constitution? No; the Founders envisioned a much weaker presidency.

{3} Do you call/write/e-mail your representatives in the House and Senate frequently? e-mail, infrequently.

{4} Have you ever read "Profiles in Courage" by John F. Kennedy? No - and you should put by in quotations marks. I have read the federalist papers on the other hand. Do I get points for that?

{5} Are you satisfied in general with the job that democrats are doing in congress since January? In general and given the terrain, yes.

Bryant
Check it out --> http://politicalcomment.blogspot.com

[Me.]

30. Yes. Yes, Yes, Yes

No

[Clark2008]

31. Here goes:

(1) Does Congress have the power to end the Bush-Cheney war in Iraq?
Yes. Congress controls wars - they have the power to declare them and the power to cut funding to end them.

{2} Does Congress now have the authority that the Founding Fathers intended when they authored the Constitution?
No. Bush and the previous Republican Congress have allowed the Unitary Executive to take away many of Congress's powers.

{3} Do you call/write/e-mail your representatives in the House and Senate frequently?
Yes.

{4} Have you ever read "Profiles in Courage" by John F. Kennedy?
No.

{5} Are you satisfied in general with the job that democrats are doing in congress since January?
No. They're not standing up for the will of the people as much as I would like. Last night was the first time I've seen them grow a pair (whether that's balls or ovaries).

[endarkenment]

32. OK

1) yes they can cut off funds.
2) no. The cabal has asserted without much challenge, broad new authority for the executive branch that has undermined the basis of the constitutional separation of powers, establishing a 'dictatorship of the executive'.
3) frequently? no, sometimes? yes. Not often enough. Thanks for reminding me.
4) an embarassingly long time ago.
5) no. fuck no. I am disgusted.

[The Count]

33. 1) not outright - but they can defund it 2)Yes 3)yes 4)No 5)barely

It took me a lot of time to answer the last one - I guess I replaced my "No" with "barely" because of the last initiative in the Senate.

[Lerkfish]

34. always happy to help out the h20man....

(1) Does Congress have the power to end the Bush-Cheney war in Iraq?

-- technically, yes I believe they do. In practice, will they? I doubt it, because being reelected is more important, and many in congress mistakenly believe they have to wave the bloody flag for that to happen. The last best chance they had was to have allowed Bush's initial funding veto to stand without coming up with a compromise bill, IMHO, and they blew that.


{2} Does Congress now have the authority that the Founding Fathers intended when they authored the Constitution?

Times have changed. Mainly because back then, there's NO WAY a president on his own could wage war. Presidents did not large monetary (and illicit) resources to fund wars. So, back then, giving congress purse strings gave them great power.

Now, as we've witnessed, all that has to happen is a compliant congress, and the system of checks and balances breaks down.

{4} Have you ever read "Profiles in Courage" by John F. Kennedy?

No, sorry.

{5} Are you satisfied in general with the job that democrats are doing in congress since January?

sometimes yes, sometimes no. I think there are times when a minimum of courage is required but never produced, and I think individually some members are extremely satisfying -- like Waxman, Boxer, Conyers, Leahy....Others are exasperating and frustrating to watch.

I think unfortunately, they are still thinking in terms of elections too much and not enough in terms of serving the country. But I don't blame only Democrats for that...obviously repubs are worse. I blame the system in modern times of being porous as a sieve, allowing outside money and power to pour in unabated, to where our congress excells at influence-peddling and as leaders, not so much.

[Me.]

35. As To #5

I said no, but think what has been happening over the last several days is an improvement and I hope that Harry Reid will, in the future, give up his role as head of the student council and act like we expect a leader of the Senate to behave. The Senate used to be referred to as an agust body. Have you heard that reference in the last 6 years?

[Jed Dilligan]

36. Yes to 1, no to the others. nt

[BurtWorm]

37. Excellent questions

(1) Does Congress have the power to end the Bush-Cheney war in Iraq?

Yes, but doing so will require the stomach and will to take a constitutional fight to the metaphorically bloodiest of conclusions--the determination to win the fight, in other words, no matter the consequence for their opponents in the Executive and Judiciary, knowing they have right, the people and the Constitution on their side. Do we see evidence of such stomach, will, fortitude, etc. in *this* Congress? The jury is out.


{2} Does Congress now have the authority that the Founding Fathers intended when they authored the Constitution?

Of course. They have the power of the purse and, as Senator Landrieu pointed out last night, the power to make policy through legislation.

{3} Do you call/write/e-mail your representatives in the House and Senate frequently?

Every few weeks I call, write or e-mail at least one, if not all, of my reps in Congress.

{4} Have you ever read "Profiles in Courage" by John F. Kennedy?

No.

{5} Are you satisfied in general with the job that democrats are doing in congress since January?

No. But they could surprise me.

[rosesaylavee]

38. Answers...

1) Yes. They have the power of the purse. They can cut off funds for this illegal war. And if the president issues an executive order to override, they can impeach him for that.

2.) Yes in theory. If the individual politicians don't think so, than this is a moot point. Perhaps they need different and/or stronger leaders if that is what they are thinking?

3.) Yes. A few times a month if not more. Hastert is thrilled with me, I am sure. I am fortunate in that my senators Durbin and Obama usually vote the way I want them to. I also write those who are head of committees such as Leahy, Waxman, Conyers and Dingle. Madame Speaker gets regular messages from me too.

4.) Yes. A very long time ago. I bet you would recommend that one be reread now?

5.) Depends. I like the oversight hearings and I hopeful that they are building a case with the information they are gleaning. If there is no action toward impeachment soon, this summer, than my answer will be a resounding NO. But I am willing to give Waxman, Conyers and Leahy a few more weeks. I think they are honorable men and will insist that their colleagues do something about the crimes their hearings have revealed.

[bbgrunt]

39. yes, no, yes, no, no.

[KittyWampus]

40. No, No, Yes, No, Yes (Mostly)

Congress is going to have to address the erosion of their powers at some point.

The Constitution still stands but it is being sullied.

The Supreme Court is a quandry.

[proud2BlibKansan]

41. 1. yes

2. yes
3. yes
4. yes
5. hell no

[BlooInBloo]

42. yynyn

[lovuian]

43. Ok

1. Yes
2. Yes
3. Yes
4. Yes
5. No...Since Kucinich revealed the Big Secret about closed door sessions with Bush over Iran war go ahead
I have been livid with Democrats...its amazing how Dems couldn't use the filabuster while Republicans were in office but Republicans can when Dems are the majority

[LSK]

44. ok

1. Yes if they cut the funds, but they would have to slash the defense budget to almost nothing to do that. Bush would just steal from every other area of the defense department to keep the war going. I do not now if they have the votes to pass a binding bill that would declare we have to leave at X date, especially if it will have to override a Bush veto.

2. Yes, but they refuse to use it.

3. Sometimes email, but my Senators are Durbin and Obama and I have a Repuke congressman who I tried to http://journals.democraticunderground.com/LSK/83">defeat.

4. No

5. I give them a C+/B-

[DemocratSinceBirth]

46. I'll Give It A Go

(1) Does Congress have the power to end the Bush-Cheney war in Iraq?

Theoretically

{2} Does Congress now have the authority that the Founding Fathers intended when they authored the Constitution?

The executive, legislative, and judicial are co-equal branches but the executive has become a stronger position than the Founding Fathers anticipated because of the influence of the media... The president has the "bully pulpit" and one voice.. The legislative branch has many voices and the judiciary branch acts secretly

{3} Do you call/write/e-mail your representatives in the House and Senate frequently?

Yes

{4} Have you ever read "Profiles in Courage" by John F. Kennedy?

Yes

{5} Are you satisfied in general with the job that democrats are doing in congress since January?

Compared to the GOPU, yes...

[KoKo]

47. Here's mine:

yes
no
yes
yes
no

[TahitiNut]

48. Yes, Yes, Yes, Yes, No!

(1) Congress has the "power of the purse" at the very least. No funding = no occupation. It would only take 41 Senators to block funding for the Iraq occupation. Furthermore, the majority in the House can refuse to pass any funding legislation for the Iraq occupation. Since ALL funding must be intitiated in the House, it's impossible to provide funding without the complicity of the majority.

(2) To the degree Congress asserts its authority, they have it. Sadly, they fail to assert it.

[riderinthestorm]

49. Great questions!

(1) Yes

{2} Yes in theory but not in application. They have abdicated a lot of power to the Presidency. I find it surprising that the Rethutg controlled Congress allowed this pResident to take so much from them. The Dems are going to have a lot of work to do to restore their position.

{3} Yes, Obama and Durbin are very responsive. I am convinced that my Congressman Peter Roskam blows Cheney while they are hiding in Cheney's bunker - he is that much of an asshat and toady.

{4} Yes but decades ago - now that you mention it though perhaps I'll throw it on my summer reading pile again. I have a battered copy still in my bookcase.

{5} No. They need to be a lot tougher, a lot smarter, a lot more aggessive or the precedents of this Admin will be set in stone if they don't reverse some of the destruction done towards our concept of "co-equal branches of government".

[H2O Man]

50. My answers:

1) Unsure.

2) No.

3) Yes.

4) Yes.

5) No.

[Patsy Stone]

51. Survey completed

(1) Does Congress have the power to end the Bush-Cheney war in Iraq?

Don't know.


{2} Does Congress now have the authority that the Founding Fathers intended when they authored the Constitution?

Yes.

{3} Do you call/write/e-mail your representatives in the House and Senate frequently?

Yes.

{4} Have you ever read "Profiles in Courage" by John F. Kennedy?

No.

{5} Are you satisfied in general with the job that democrats are doing in congress since January?

No.

[gilpo]

52. mine

1-Yes, via $
2-Yes, why would it be changed?
3-Yes
4-No
5-Yes, but the rebulicans are fucking it all up.

[watercolors]

53. Yes on the first 4

#5 democrats can and should do much more, its time to cancel Aug vacation and hold them in DC until this gets settled and they make a bipartistan agreement on the troops either coming home or dep;oyment outside Iraq. Its time we play the bullies!

[EFerrari]

54. Okay -

1. Yes
2. No, their authority has been eroded.
3. Yes
4. Yes
5. No

[John Q. Citizen]

55. here are my answers;

1. No

2. No, because they have conceeded their authority by

3. Yes

4. No

5. No

This congress has volutarily abdicated their power to the executive. Two major examples is that they have voluntarity given away their power to impeach and they have voluntariliy given away their power of the purse.

They have retained their power to complain, though.

[bobthedrummer]

56. 1-y, 2-n, 3-y, 4-y, 5-n

To me it's looking very similar to the history of the Weimar Republic H2O Man

The Weimar Republic and the Third Reich
http://dmorgan.web.wesleyan.edu/materials/weimar.htm

The Weimar Republic epoch shaped the philosophy of Leo Strauss, and he influenced so many sitting in DC today

"Straussism: The Neocon Philosophy Directing The Age Of Tyranny-Looking Glass News"
http://dissidentnews.wordpress.com/2007/01/27/straussism-the-neocon-philosophy-directing-the-age-of-tyranny-looking-glass-news/

I also read Sinclair Lewis's "It Can't Happen Here", Orwell's "1984", Huxley's "Brave New World", Atwood's "The Handmaid's Tale", as well as Moore and Slater's "The Architect", The Constitution of The United States of America and much more.

[seemslikeadream]

57. It can't happen here, can it?

:hi:

[bobthedrummer]

59. Hi dreamy! It can't-yet it did.

:hi:

[Lone_Star_Dem]

58. Mine

1-Yes

2-No

3-Yes

4-Yes However, it has been over 20 years and that's way too long.

5-No

[Mandate My Ass]

60. our survey says...

(1) Does Congress have the power to end the Bush-Cheney war in Iraq? Unsure but if they cut the funding and Bushco kept on, they'd have no choice but to impeach.

{2} Does Congress now have the authority that the Founding Fathers intended when they authored the Constitution? Yes but they don't act like it.

{3} Do you call/write/e-mail your representatives in the House and Senate frequently? Not as frequently as I used to but more or less because PA has gotten rid of Santorum and Weldon so I haven't felt as much of a need.

{4} Have you ever read "Profiles in Courage" by John F. Kennedy? No, not yet.

{5} Are you satisfied in general with the job that democrats are doing in congress since January? No. They still let the R's frame the debate and fail to force issues the way the R's did. IMHO, with a few notable exceptions, they're still acting like a minority party or the "let's-play-nice" party to the detriment of those they represent.

[hfojvt]

61. yes, yes, no, yes, yes

1 and 2 probably require bipartisanship, which we do not have. I am still unsatisfied with the performance of the Republicans in Congress, but I know of no way to change that (nor will any more of them be defeated in my state, at least not until Sebelius runs against Brownback in 2010, but I am not very satisfied with Sebelius performance as Governor.)

[Blue_Tires]

62. hope this helps

(1) Does Congress have the power to end the Bush-Cheney war in Iraq? yes

{2} Does Congress now have the authority that the Founding Fathers intended when they authored the Constitution? yes

{3} Do you call/write/e-mail your representatives in the House and Senate frequently? no

{4} Have you ever read "Profiles in Courage" by John F. Kennedy? no

{5} Are you satisfied in general with the job that democrats are doing in congress since January? no

[mmonk]

63. 1-4 yes, 5 no.

You pretty much know my feelings on these issues. When I heard impeachment is off the table, I can't remember when I've felt worse about my party or the future.

[Kazak]

64. Sure thing...

1. yes
2. yes
3. Frequently? No. 'Only wish I had the time. Also, with Inhofe, what's the point?
4. no
5. no

[Swamp Rat]

65. ok

1. Yes
2. Yes
3. Yes
4. No
5. No, but things are improving. They are starting to realize they have the vast majority of Americans behind them to stop the war, and are therefore growing a spine. I am still very skeptical of politicians in general.

[robinlynne]

66. 1-yes. 2-no. executive has usurpped much of it. or yes, but they don't seem

to know it. 3-yes. 4-no. 5-satisifed with Conyers and Waxmans' work, satisified with what Harry did this morning. other than that NO.

[KAT119]

67. 1.YES(purse) 2. YES 3.NO-AM in AZ(McCain!!) Red State-I email all other

Dems. esp.Committee Chairmen(Conyers/Leahy/Waxman/Speker Pelosi)--4. NO--read much about it, though-- 5.NO-- Hugely disappointed!!

[underpants]

68. Y-by many means, Y, Y, N, N

[sandnsea]

69. y, iffy, y, y, iffy

Congress has the power, if Congress has the votes. Congress doesn't have the votes. I am not satisfied with Democrats because they are not making that clear.

[satya]

70. (1)Yes (2)Yes (3)Yes (4)No (going to the library today--thanks for the suggestion) (5)Yes nt

[Irishonly]

71. Probably more info than you wanted

(1) Does Congress have the power to end the Bush-Cheney war in Iraq? Yes, but until the chicken hawks decide to join the human race, it's an uphill battle. IMHO there isn't enough of a democratic majority and republicans put party before country

{2} Does Congress now have the authority that the Founding Fathers intended when they authored the Constitution? No, but they are fighting to get it back.

{3} Do you call/write/e-mail your representatives in the House and Senate frequently?Yes

{4} Have you ever read "Profiles in Courage" by John F. Kennedy?Yes

{5} Are you satisfied in general with the job that democrats are doing in congress since January? No, but I understand there isn't a veto proof majority.

[hootinholler]

72. Another datum

(1) Does Congress have the power to end the Bush-Cheney war in Iraq?

Yes, but they don't have the will to exercise it, so, effectively their answer is no.

{2} Does Congress now have the authority that the Founding Fathers intended when they authored the Constitution?

Complex question. Do you mean that they have conceded that authority? The muscle that wields it seems to have atrophied, so effectively, no. They can regain some by declarations and enforcement of inherent contempt. A bad ruling from the SCOTUS upholding Executive Privilege could make a real blow to that authority.

{3} Do you call/write/e-mail your representatives in the House and Senate frequently?

No, a few times a year. I am sorely discouraged by the form letter replies I get. In fact I'm not sure which is worse, getting no answer or getting a form letter vaguely covering the fringe of my position.

{4} Have you ever read "Profiles in Courage" by John F. Kennedy?

No, I haven't. I generally read to escape, but have read a few political books.

{5} Are you satisfied in general with the job that democrats are doing in congress since January?

Absolutely not. Congress needs to crack down hard on the DOJ and the administration. I really don't know how they can accomplish that without an independent prosecutor.

Peace,
-Hoot

[Usrename]

73. yes, yes, no, no, no

I have written to Washington in the past, but very infrequently.

[Richard Steele]

74. Yes, yes, no, yes, no. nm

[Virginia Dare]

75. YES, YES, NO, YES, YES and NO....n/t

[IChing]

76. 1yes 2yes 3yes 4yes 5..I try to be an pessimistic optimist ..LOL

vs a optimistic pessimist.

[proud patriot]

77. Here's my answers

1) Does Congress have the power to end the Bush-Cheney war in Iraq?
I hope they do and make more effort to try.

{2} Does Congress now have the authority that the Founding Fathers intended when they authored the Constitution? Not likely .

{3} Do you call/write/e-mail your representatives in the House and Senate frequently?
Yes

{4} Have you ever read "Profiles in Courage" by John F. Kennedy?
I have not

{5} Are you satisfied in general with the job that democrats are doing in congress since January? somewhat satisfied

[CatWoman]

78. 1. yes

2. yes

3. quasi :)

4. no

5. yes

:hi:

[BeHereNow]

79. Y,Y,Y,Y,N

About my answer to number 5:

"A man does what he must - in spite of personal consequences,
in spite of obstacles and dangers and pressures -
and that is the basis of all human morality." JFK: Profiles in Courage

Because I answered "yes" to 1-3, I expect Congress members
exemplify the the behavior suggested by JFK in the quote
above. They don't.
So no, I am not happy with the democrats OR the republicans
using the JFK measuring stick of performance.

BHN

Thanks for the survey, those simple questions ask everything
that needs to be asked and thought about.

[cassiepriam]

80. yes no no YES NO

[in_cog_ni_to]

81. (1) Yes (2) Yes (3) Yes (4) Yes (5)Yes

:hi:

[stop the bleeding]

82. #'s 1,2 yes but will they? #3 sometimes but not enough, # 4 no, # 5 mixed feelings n/t

[KoKo]

83. Waterman.....Some posters might be confused by your Q-2....

I read it as asking if I felt Congress was a STRONG as Founders envisioned. But, some might have thought it meant the same as Q-1.

That's why I asked about doing a Poll...

Reason I ask...is that I think Founders envisioned CONGRESS (particularly the HOUSE) as having the DEFINING POWER...but it's all been given away over the years because Presidents have usurped Congresses POWER to DECLARE WAR.... and your Q-2 could be misread to ask if they STILL have authority...which IMHO...they DON't because they've given it away.

I see many posters here who I always seem to align with voting differently on Q-2 than I did and that's why I wonder if Q-2 isn't getting "skewed" response. :shrug:

[Me.]

86. As To # 2, I Believe It Exists

but it has, with the exception of the last two days, been kept in the sock drawer. I read last week that a GOPer told Kent Conrad that the GOP strategy was to prevent the Dems from accomplishing anything, to obstruct, obstruct, obstruct. That might have been the kick Reid needed.

[Jacobin]

84. Glad to let you have my 2 cents

1. Yes. By cutting back the funding. This was done to a substantial degree to end Viet Nam, although it was not debated so much, since by the time it happened, everyone and his brother knew the thing was lost (except, of course, for current RWers who think we should still be there)

2. No. They have squandered it and sold it in exchange for large campaign contributions.

3. About once a month.

4. Not in decades.

5. No. Last night was a good start. Unfortunately, so many democrats voted for the IWR that they are having a difficult time scraping the stench of that mistake from them to make them credible in now denouncing what was clearly an enormous blunder even then.

[Lochloosa]

85. Done

1. No

2. Yes

3. Yes...I have a step-brother that is a 5 term congressman I go through his mother. *S*

4. No. Will now.

5. YES

[flyarm]

87. done

yes
no... they should but Bush keeps shitting on their power and giving them the middle finger!!
yes
yes
yes one day..and no another!!

[robertpaulsen]

88. 1. Yes 2. No 3. Yes 4. No 5. Fuck No

:hi:

[Ms. Clio]

89. response

(1) theoretically, yes.

(2) no, nor do they have the spinal fortitude.

(3) I sign petitions that are supposed to be sent to them more than I call (since I live in TX, I expect damned little of my two Senators, and my Congressperson is really not very visible or useful, as far as I can tell)

(4) I think so, when I was much younger. I honestly don't remember much about it.

(5) No. For the most part, I find it very disappointing and discouraging.

[Jack Rabbit]

90. Ok, I'll bite

1. Congress can just do nothing and stop the war in Iraq. By "doing nothing" I mean they just don't pass any bill with Iraq appropriations in it. If Bush spends money on the war without proper authority, he is in violation of the Constitution.

2. It does, but Congress needs to assert that authority more stridently. Impeachment must be put on the table because, quite frankly, that is the only threat Bush or Cheney will respect.

3. Yes, my Congressman in Mike Thompson (D-CA/1). I write to him and bring up impeachment and he continually tells he is against it "at this time."

4. Yes. We had the Inaugural Edition in the house when I grew up. I think my dad still has it.

5. Ask me some days and I'll say "no". After last night, I'll say "yes" at least for the day.

[mzmolly]

91. Glad to partake.

(1) Does Congress have the power to end the Bush-Cheney war in Iraq? An overwhelming majority, yes. Democrats alone, no.

{2} Does Congress now have the authority that the Founding Fathers intended when they authored the Constitution? Yes, and unfortunately that authority allows for disagreement and participation from Republicans. ;)

{3} Do you call/write/e-mail your representatives in the House and Senate frequently? Yep

{4} Have you ever read "Profiles in Courage" by John F. Kennedy? No, not yet but since you ask, it's on my list! ;)

{5} Are you satisfied in general with the job that democrats are doing in congress since January? Not until recently. Today, I'm satisfied.

:hi:

[eridani]

92. Answers

(1) Does Congress have the power to end the Bush-Cheney war in Iraq?
Theoretically yes. In practice, only if they have enough votes.

{2} Does Congress now have the authority that the Founding Fathers intended when they authored the Constitution?

In practice, no.

{3} Do you call/write/e-mail your representatives in the House and Senate frequently?

At least once a week.

{4} Have you ever read "Profiles in Courage" by John F. Kennedy?

Many years ago.

{5} Are you satisfied in general with the job that democrats are doing in congress since January?

They've made progress in investigations, and in putting out subpoenas. The question is now whether they will continue to let the Bushies thumb their noses at them.

[ms liberty]

93. Here ya go...

1) Yes, if enough Republicans would join the democrats to make it a veto proof majority.
2) I think the authority of Congress has been eroded over the last six years; I also believe the intention of the Founding Fathers was for a stronger Congress than what we now have.
3) I do, although not as much as I perhaps should. My reps are all right-wing GOP'ers, you see...I've got Dole and Burr in the Senate, and Virginia Foxx in the House. Its very disheartening, as you might imagine. Like beating your head against a brick wall. And paying someone for the privilege.
4) Not cover to cover, but sections. I've also read sections of Caroline's Profiles in Courage for Our Time.
5) In general, yes. They can only do so much with a less-than-veto-proof majority and a GOP that is desperate. In specific, there are a number of issues I believe the democrats should be concerning themselves with that they are not, but it is all a matter of timing, and of priority and degree...I can be a bit patient on some issues, because other issues have to come first. I don't expect instant, perfect solutions.

[dweller]

94. ...

Yes
NO
sometimes
not yet
most times.

dp

[Lugnut]

95. My answers

1. Yes
2. Yes
3. Yes
4. No
5. Somewhat - I'd like to see contempt charges brought against those who thumb their noses at Congress.

[Me.]

96. Thurs. Morn

:kick:

[bobthedrummer]

97. .