Politics Thread

[Xville]

Hmmm, so is it your position that the US gives back the land?

I’m confused by your position. You stated the Country was founded through exploitation. That is not true. It was founded through blood and battle.

What are your thoughts on North Africa during Jefferson’s tenure?

lol please point me to where I said anything about exploitation? Seems that you like to create things in your own head and maybe are a bit insecure about our country’s history. We all probably should be to a certain point. Later.

[Strange Brew]

lol please point me to where I said anything about exploitation? Seems that you like to create things in your own head and maybe are a bit insecure about our country’s history. We all probably should be to a certain point. Later.

You didn’t. My apologies.

You did however make the tired, stupid argument that the US stole land from the Indians. I’d give you credit if you went off against Andrew Jackson (D). That guy was a bastard only to be eclipsed by FDR, Wilson and LBJ (Paul often forgets his racist heroes).

I have no problems with American history. Again, thoughts on Jefferson and North Africa? Or perhaps we could discuss the Crusades? I have no problem with that fight either. You?


Thoughts on anti-Catholic bigotry in the 20th C.

[Xville]

You didn’t. My apologies.

You did however make the tired, stupid argument that the US stole land from the Indians. I’d give you credit if you went off against Andrew Jackson (D). That guy was a bastard only to be eclipsed by FDR, Wilson and LBJ (Paul often forgets his racist heroes).

I have no problems with American history. Again, thoughts on Jefferson and North Africa? Or perhaps we could discuss the Crusades? I have no problem with that fight either. You?


Thoughts on anti-Catholic bigotry in the 20th C.

Oh really? Where did I say that? I didn’t. For how much you pretend to read, you sure have a comprehension problem.

[Strange Brew]

Oh really? Where did I say that? I didn’t. For how much you pretend to read, you sure have a comprehension problem.

Nobody backs Ville into a philosophical corner!

This is relevant, what are your thoughts on Jefferson vs. North Africa.

BTW, I’m more “black” than Liz Warren is Indian as result of the Moors invading Ireland.

Jokingly, that is why I could dunk and out run most Honkies when I was younger. :)

Disclaimer: That last line was a joke. And it is funny.

[XU_Lou]

My point is that it’s rich to complain about someone different from you being in a position of power, and “destroying a culture” considering our own country’s history. You also heavily implied that just because they are Muslim, that’s a bad thing. Pretty discriminatory of you. But I’d expect nothing less.

In other words, you really have no point, other than to argue.

Do you know anything about world history other than 1607?

After you live in Somalia or Syria for a few years, let me know how you feel about living under Muslim control. Until then, you're simply taking a page out of the liberal playbook with that tired racist tripe that Paul tried to use earlier.

[XU_Lou]

Oh Ville….

Let’s see what our beloved saint has to say when he’s not arguing with me. Our very own Boner Champ is approaching 18K posts – he says so many stupid things he can’t keep track of which side of the argument he’s on. LOL!!!!


I'm not stereotyping an entire religion, the problem is that it is hard to vet them and see potential terrorists when there is such a large number looking to get out...it really isn't that hard to understand.

You make it seem so easy...just bring them over here, show them why america is great and really integrate them....its not that simple.


What does me knowing any Muslims have to do with anything? Great argument! I have nothing against muslims or anyone that is different from me by the way..except for those pesky terrorist groups. I'll tell you what I do know. Radical Islam exists, and they would like to destroy our way of life. Unfortunately, it is hard to tell someone's true intentions even with vetting processes in place. Maybe check out the story about the iraqi terrosits who claimed they were refugees and got into our country. You know that isis has infiltrated their way into European countries by saying they are Syrian refugees? Check that out. The same could happen here. I'd rather not risk it at this point.



Simple… Middle East turned into a parking lot, Putin to get the f out of ukraine, Social media to be destroyed, world peace, and Xavier to reach a final four.

Not necessarily in that order.


Great in theory…. I think we should have just turned the damn place into a parking lot..like I think most of the Middle East should be.


Can we turn the middle east into a parking lot already? Either bomb the ever living crap out of them, or let them all blow each other up. No more of this lets have ground troops there and try to make democracy happen there. It's never going to happen there.

We have been dealing with these stupid waste of space region for way too long.


In response to this:

"I live in metro-Detroit which has the highest Arab population outside of the middle east. Though the governments of these individuals' countries of origin may feel otherwise, the people certainly have no issues with our way of life. They yearn for it." Ville said:


I'm glad you feel so secure...I don't

http://dailycaller.com/2016/08/07/former-deputy-cia-director-falsely-claims-not-a-single-iraqi-refugee-became-a-terrorist/


I'm just glad I got to see Rose McGowan and john Cusack's stance on it. I wouldnt know what to think without seeing their opinion. Someone send McGowan to Iran since she loves it so much. They love women there.

And there are many more like these....

[Xville]

Nobody backs Ville into a philosophical corner!

This is relevant, what are your thoughts on Jefferson vs. North Africa.

BTW, I’m more “black” than Liz Warren is Indian as result of the Moors invading Ireland.

Jokingly, that is why I could dunk and out run most Honkies when I was younger. :)

Disclaimer: That last line was a joke. And it is funny.

So, again where did I say it? Since you said I did

[Xville]

In other words, you really have no point, other than to argue.

Do you know anything about world history other than 1607?

After you live in Somalia or Syria for a few years, let me know how you feel about living under Muslim control. Until then, you're simply taking a page out of the liberal playbook with that tired racist tripe that Paul tried to use earlier.

Lol sure racist. I know quite a bit of world history, you probably get yours from
X. “After you live in Somalia or Syria…” what are you trying to say here? All Muslims are like the ruling class in those countries? lol that’s even more discriminatory lol. Do you think the same about Egypt, Indonesia?

I mean can you be anymore of a get off my lawn type? Good grief.

[Xville]

Oh Ville….

Let’s see what our beloved saint has to say when he’s not arguing with me. Our very own Boner Champ is approaching 18K posts – he says so many stupid things he can’t keep track of which side of the argument he’s on. LOL!!!!













In response to this:

"I live in metro-Detroit which has the highest Arab population outside of the middle east. Though the governments of these individuals' countries of origin may feel otherwise, the people certainly have no issues with our way of life. They yearn for it." Ville said:





And there are many more like these....

So you fail to understand the difference between the Middle East annd the countries within it that anre constantly fighting and Muslims holding positions in other countries? That’s not shocking, racist.

[Strange Brew]

Lol sure racist. I know quite a bit of world history, you probably get yours from
X. “After you live in Somalia or Syria…” what are you trying to say here? All Muslims are like the ruling class in those countries? lol that’s even more discriminatory lol. Do you think the same about Egypt, Indonesia?

I mean can you be anymore of a get off my lawn type? Good grief.

Still haven’t addressed Jefferson vs. North Africa. :)

What is your take on Somalia and Syria?

[Xville]

Still haven’t addressed Jefferson vs. North Africa. :)

What is your take on Somalia and Syria?

Still haven’t answered my question, why should I answer yours?

I’ve already made my point. Your additional questions aren’t relevant.

[Xville]

Do you think these Tweets are related? Americans began sensing the same thing was happening in this country, and thus was one of the reasons Trump was elected president. It's precisely why the globalists hate Trump. We may have awakened just in time. In Europe, sadly, it may be too late.



MichaeloKeeffe
@Mick_O_Keeffe
While Irish restaurants are closing down on a daily basis, a new Somalian restaurant has opened in Dublin.

It is an extremely uncomfortable feeling to witness your people, culture and history disappear before your eyes.

https://x.com/Mick_O_Keeffe/status/1885772428170661926




RadioGenoa
@RadioGenoa
Islamic scholar considers Sweden conquered: “If Swedes don't have children and Muslims have 5/7 of them, within a generation many Swedish cities will have a Muslim majority."

https://x.com/RadioGenoa/status/1885565243511701525





Crazy Vibes
@CrazyVibes_1
This how you take over a nation in one generation ����������

The Mayor of London is a Muslim.

The mayor of Birmingham is a Muslim.

The Mayor of Leeds is Muslim.

Mayor of Blackburn - Muslim.

The mayor of Sheffield is a Muslim.

The mayor of Oxford is a Muslim.

The mayor of Luton is a Muslim.

The mayor of Oldham is Muslim.

The mayor of Rochdale is Muslim

All this was achieved by only 4 million Muslims out of 66 million people in England:

Today there are over 3,000 mosques in England.

There are over 130 sharia courts.

There are more than 50 Sharia Councils.

78 percent of Muslim women do not work, receive state support + free accommodation.

63 percent of Muslims do not work, receive state support + free housing.

State-supported Muslim families with an average of 6 to 8 children receive free accommodation.

Now every school in the UK is required to teach lessons about Islam.

Did anyone actually vote for this?

https://x.com/CrazyVibes_1/status/1885609627490165012

Here’s your original post. How much of this is factually correct ya think lou? I’m excited for your answer. I’d implore you to stop believing everything that is posted on x, but you’re going to continue to do it, because you love digesting it, no matter how uneducated it is. You’re a content creator’s wet dream.

[XU_Lou]

Here’s your original post. How much of this is factually correct ya think lou? I’m excited for your answer. I’d implore you to stop believing everything that is posted on x, but you’re going to continue to do it, because you love digesting it, no matter how uneducated it is. You’re a content creator’s wet dream.

Actually, most of it. And, it's actually far worse than those 3 tweets. Do your own research for once, lazy-ass.

[XU_Lou]

Here's another one that Ville and Paul got absolutely suckered on - it never fails, libs get duped on anything and everything the MSM feeds them:


Clandestine
@WarClandestine
Now that Trump is in office and the charade is over, Zelensky admits he did not receive over $100 billion of our tax dollars.

He says he “does not know where all the money is”.

Meaning Ukraine was a massive money laundering operation, and the Biden regime never actually cared about defending Ukraine or preserving democracy. All of the pro-Ukraine propaganda was a psyop to garner American support, so the People would willingly send our tax dollars to “defend democracy”, and it worked on millions.

All of it was a lie, just so Western oligarchs could use Ukraine as a laundry mat. They sacrificed the lives of millions of soldiers, because of their greed. They stole our money from our labor, then used it to start and fund a war on the other side of the globe, and then lied about it. They bankrupt the American People, and stuffed their pockets, while millions suffered.

It was all a scam. Many of us said this from the beginning and we were labeled as “Russian assets”.

https://x.com/WarClandestine/status/1886159318778560611


Zelensky admits that $100 billion have mysteriously disappeared:


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JsBm8eSrQiY

[Xville]

Actually, most of it. And, it's actually far worse than those 3 tweets. Do your own research for once, lazy-ass.

I’m glad you believe your own bullshit, at least someone does.

By research do you mean x providing info to you based on what you engage with? X knows you’re an angry racist loving trumpster. Congrats on being one of X’s lemmings.

[paulxu]

It's amazing that people don't do independent research. I suppose the algorithms constantly generate misinformation if the sources you visit are always sending you that type of stuff. If you have someone like Bannon in your feed, you'll always get nonsense as he described flooding the zone with shit years ago.
But it's a sad commentary on the educational system's outcome from a Jesuit university if people are so easily manipulated.
Then again, there's no proof I suppose that some posters here actually attended X.

https://www.newsweek.com/fact-check-have-us-taxpayers-sent-200-billion-ukraine-1796322

[GoMuskies]

Jesus Christ paul, you're better than some of these guys on that score for sure, but you still regurgitate MSNBC talking points like nobody's business.

[Xville]

Here's another one that Ville and Paul got absolutely suckered on - it never fails, libs get duped on anything and everything the MSM feeds them:


Clandestine
@WarClandestine
Now that Trump is in office and the charade is over, Zelensky admits he did not receive over $100 billion of our tax dollars.

He says he “does not know where all the money is”.

Meaning Ukraine was a massive money laundering operation, and the Biden regime never actually cared about defending Ukraine or preserving democracy. All of the pro-Ukraine propaganda was a psyop to garner American support, so the People would willingly send our tax dollars to “defend democracy”, and it worked on millions.

All of it was a lie, just so Western oligarchs could use Ukraine as a laundry mat. They sacrificed the lives of millions of soldiers, because of their greed. They stole our money from our labor, then used it to start and fund a war on the other side of the globe, and then lied about it. They bankrupt the American People, and stuffed their pockets, while millions suffered.

It was all a scam. Many of us said this from the beginning and we were labeled as “Russian assets”.

https://x.com/WarClandestine/status/1886159318778560611


Zelensky admits that $100 billion have mysteriously disappeared:


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JsBm8eSrQiY

The irony here is hysterical. Seriously, stop trusting things like youtube and X for your news source. It's embarrassing.

[Smails]

Did anyone happen to see the highlights of the DNC elections? If Trump is destined to destroy America and that's the organization who is going to deliver a slate of candidates to save us....there is no hope. What an absolute circus

[Xville]

Did anyone happen to see the highlights of the DNC elections? If Trump is destined to destroy America and that's the organization who is going to deliver a slate of candidates to save us....there is no hope. What an absolute circus

Good gawd no lol. I'm not sure if the DNC is smart enough, but if they start putting candidates like Shapiro and Beshear front and center, they could have a great shot at winning in '28. Instead, they will probably put Newsom to the head of the class, and fail miserably again.

This Presidency isn't starting out great. I have no issue with putting tariffs on China, but putting them on our neighboring countries is asinine. Trump's plan of just pissing everyone off isn't my idea of a masterclass in foreign relations.

[xuwillie]

Did anyone happen to see the highlights of the DNC elections? If Trump is destined to destroy America and that's the organization who is going to deliver a slate of candidates to save us....there is no hope. What an absolute circus

Democratic Party is finished, they have betrayed more half their party

[GoMuskies]

I'm not sure if the DNC is smart enough, but if they start putting candidates like Shapiro and Beshear front and center, they could have a great shot at winning in '28.

They elected David Hogg Vice Chair if that gives you any sense of their direction.

[XU_Lou]

It's amazing that people don't do independent research. I suppose the algorithms constantly generate misinformation if the sources you visit are always sending you that type of stuff. If you have someone like Bannon in your feed, you'll always get nonsense as he described flooding the zone with shit years ago.
But it's a sad commentary on the educational system's outcome from a Jesuit university if people are so easily manipulated.
Then again, there's no proof I suppose that some posters here actually attended X.

https://www.newsweek.com/fact-check-have-us-taxpayers-sent-200-billion-ukraine-1796322

Good grief, Paul, what the hell does this have to do with Zelensky's comments the other day? Zero!! Nice try to obfuscate by linking this to Steve Bannon. The only problem is that Bannon has nothing whatsoever to do with Zelensky's comments.

Moreover, that "fact check" is almost two years old!! At that time it admits that we already gave $113 Billion. How much have we given since? Biden sent several billion while WNC wallowed in mud, remember? Did you even bother to read this?

Are you saying Zelensky is lying? Okay, why did Biden and all you other libs jump in bed with him?

Do you ever think for yourself? Can you comment on anything without referring to "fact checkers"? No wonder you get duped all the time.

You're way too easy. But I'm sure you'll slink away, just like you always do when your nonsense gets exposed.

[Xville]

They elected David Hogg Vice Chair if that gives you any sense of their direction.

Unsettling that they have learned absolutely nothing

[bjf123]

This Presidency isn't starting out great. I have no issue with putting tariffs on China, but putting them on our neighboring countries is asinine. Trump's plan of just pissing everyone off isn't my idea of a masterclass in foreign relations.

Looks like the tariffs against Mexico are being paused for a month. Seems Mexico has agreed to put 10,000 troops on their side of the border to slow the illegal crossings and slow the flow of fentanyl. Seems like the threat of a tariff worked!

https://abcnews.go.com/Politics/trump-discuss-tariffs-canadian-mexican-leaders-mexico-readies/story?id=118390520


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Xville]

Looks like the tariffs against Mexico are being paused for a month. Seems Mexico has agreed to put 10,000 troops on their side of the border to slow the illegal crossings and slow the flow of fentanyl. Seems like the threat of a tariff worked!

https://abcnews.go.com/Politics/trump-discuss-tariffs-canadian-mexican-leaders-mexico-readies/story?id=118390520


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Possibly. A couple of things I'll be watching. 1.) if it actually happens; 2.) if all those troops aren't compromised and 3.) if it actually does anything to help. It doesn't really change my opinion that placing tariffs on those two countries is asinine, and everyone knows it. Mexico knows it, Canada knows it, and I would hope Trump knows it.

[xuwillie]

Possibly. A couple of things I'll be watching. 1.) if it actually happens; 2.) if all those troops aren't compromised and 3.) if it actually does anything to help. It doesn't really change my opinion that placing tariffs on those two countries is asinine, and everyone knows it. Mexico knows it, Canada knows it, and I would hope Trump knows it.

They can talk tough all they want but Canada knows tariffs would kill their country. If we can stop illegal drugs and immigration just a little then the treat was worth it

[paulxu]

Jesus Christ paul, you're better than some of these guys on that score for sure, but you still regurgitate MSNBC talking points like nobody's business.

I no longer engage in direct dialogue here with people who won't fact check.
As an example: the Newsweek fact check on the $200 billion claim is a couple years old. So, the same debunked claim is still rolling around and needing to be set right. Maybe that's what Zelensky is doing. Answering a rumor started years ago and spread by Bannon to unwitting people.
I guess their algorithms keep feeding them the recycled stuff.

But I appreciate your input, and would be curious if you could show me where I regurgitated a MSNBC "talking point" that wasn't backed up as a fact, rather than their obvious liberal opinions.
If that is the case anywhere, I stand to be corrected.

Thanks

[Xville]

Good grief, Paul, what the hell does this have to do with Zelensky's comments the other day? Zero!! Nice try to obfuscate by linking this to Steve Bannon. The only problem is that Bannon has nothing whatsoever to do with Zelensky's comments.

Moreover, that "fact check" is almost two years old!! At that time it admits that we already gave $113 Billion. How much have we given since? Biden sent several billion while WNC wallowed in mud, remember? Did you even bother to read this?

Are you saying Zelensky is lying? Okay, why did Biden and all you other libs jump in bed with him?

Do you ever think for yourself? Can you comment on anything without referring to "fact checkers"? No wonder you get duped all the time.

You're way too easy. But I'm sure you'll slink away, just like you always do when your nonsense gets exposed.

https://www.cfr.org/article/how-much-us-aid-going-ukraine

All it takes is a simple google search to get the actual facts, instead of from someone who is just trying to boost their engagement on a social media platform. The amount of ignorance you possess knows no bounds. Stop feeding into the algorithm, and do a simple google search to make sure the bullshit they spew, is actually correct. At least for the sake of everyone on this thread, do it before you post such gibberish.

[noteggs]

Did anyone happen to see the highlights of the DNC elections? If Trump is destined to destroy America and that's the organization who is going to deliver a slate of candidates to save us....there is no hope. What an absolute circus

Holy smokes! Identity politics on steroids. Not sure what was more amusing? Jonathan Capehart asking if Kamala lost because of racism and misogyny (which all the candidates and audience rose their hands) or the voting rules presentation. Nothing like being tone deaf.

[XU_Lou]

I no longer engage in direct dialogue here with people who won't fact check.
As an example: the Newsweek fact check on the $200 billion claim is a couple years old. So, the same debunked claim is still rolling around and needing to be set right. Maybe that's what Zelensky is doing. Answering a rumor started years ago and spread by Bannon to unwitting people.
I guess their algorithms keep feeding them the recycled stuff.

But I appreciate your input, and would be curious if you could show me where I regurgitated a MSNBC "talking point" that wasn't backed up as a fact, rather than their obvious liberal opinions.
If that is the case anywhere, I stand to be corrected.

Thanks


https://www.cfr.org/article/how-much-us-aid-going-ukraine

All it takes is a simple google search to get the actual facts, instead of from someone who is just trying to boost their engagement on a social media platform. The amount of ignorance you possess knows no bounds. Stop feeding into the algorithm, and do a simple google search to make sure the bullshit they spew, is actually correct. At least for the sake of everyone on this thread, do it before you post such gibberish.

Jesus Christ - you two bozos are totally insane!

An anonymous poster on X didn't say it, fucking Zelensky himself said it. Do you really fucking think he doesn't know how much the US committed to him? Do you really think he's getting his numbers from Steve Bannon? That completely ludicrous!

Again, if Zelensky is lying, why in the hell are the Dems in bed with this guy? If he doesn't know his numbers, why are the Dems in bed with him?

Do you two ever think before commenting? Get out of your bubbles for Christ sake!

[Xville]

Jesus Christ - you two bozos are totally insane!

An anonymous poster on X didn't say it, fucking Zelensky himself said it. Do you really fucking think he doesn't know how much the US committed to him? Do you really think he's getting his numbers from Steve Bannon? That completely ludicrous!

Again, if Zelensky is lying, why in the hell are the Dems in bed with this guy? If he doesn't know his numbers, why are the Dems in bed with him?

Do you two ever think before commenting? Get out of your bubbles for Christ sake!

So, you either didn’t read the article or you didn’t comprehend it. Either read it again, or read it for the first time. It illustrates where the money went. My post is in response to your Twitter link. I didn’t know I had to spell that out for you.


Btw, zelensky isn’t lying, he’s answering a question probably about the amount of money or contributions his country has directly received. Maybe the journalist or whoever is interviewing asked why is the 177 billion is not enough from the us. I don’t know. What I do know is that He answered based upon what he does know and what he has directly received. In other words, it’s not a global conspiracy.

[XU_Lou]

Actually, it's called a non sequitur. But really, thanks for participating.

[Xville]

Actually, it's called a non sequitur. But really, thanks for participating.

Ok. So I gave you a direct link with direct evidence in a calm and concise manner, explaining what happened and from a non-biased U.S. think tank that’s been around since the 20s. You in turn, call it a non-sequitur and choose to believe a post on x. Your choice, but an interesting decision.
The article even closely matches exactly what zelensky said in terms of what they have directly received and in what fashion. But it’s a non-sequitur. That’s some interesting critical thinking skills.

[XU_Lou]

I know Ville and Paul like to obfuscate and muddy up the waters by throwing nonsense into an argument - that's their standard M.O. I don't care what your links say about amounts or how the funds were allocated. It means nothing to this argument.

So, let me spell this out quite plainly so that even a Ukrainian can understand: Did Zelensky say:

“That is, $100 billion of these $177, or $200, some people even say, we never received.”

It's a simple yes or no question.

If yes, why did he say it?

If you deny that he said that, then please explain.

[Xville]

I know Ville and Paul like to obfuscate and muddy up the waters by throwing nonsense into an argument - that's their standard M.O. I don't care what your links say about amounts or how the funds were allocated. It means nothing to this argument.

So, let me spell this out quite plainly so that even a Ukrainian can understand: Did Zelensky say:

“That is, $100 billion of these $177, or $200, some people even say, we never received.”

It's a simple yes or no question.

If yes, why did he say it?

If you deny that he said that, then please explain.

I already said why he said that. Before you post again, read the article, it has charts where the money went, with even further analysis links if you’d like. It very closely matches what zelensky said. If you can’t understand that, I can’t help you any further.

[GoMuskies]

What are we arguing about here?

[xuwillie]

Doing a little research and it seems like a no brainer to close USAID. What a waste of tax payer money

[Xville]

Doing a little research and it seems like a no brainer to close USAID. What a waste of tax payer money

What actually is it? Honestly have no clue what it even is

[xuphan]

What are we arguing about here?

Not sure but Trump played a blinder getting Mexico and Canada to commit more resources to securing the border. Credit where credit is due.

[xuwillie]

What actually is it? Honestly have no clue what it even is

Simple terms, a group of people who have a budget of 40-50bB for other countries that can do whatever they want. Here are some examples

$2.5 MILLION to DEI in Serbia
$70,000 onan Irish DEI musical
$47,000 on transgender operas in Colombia
$32,000 on a trans comic book in Peru
20 MILLION for a Sesame Street in Iraq
56 MILLION to boost tourism in Egypt & Tunisia
$40 MILLION to build schools in Jordan

We do need to help countries but the last 4 years have gotten out of hand

[GoMuskies]

Not sure but Trump played a blinder getting Mexico and Canada to commit more resources to securing the border. Credit where credit is due.

I hope he doesn't fall too in love with this tactic. You can only go to the well so many times.

Weird (to me) how it played out, though. He told everyone on innauguration day exactly what he was going to do. Why did Mexico and Canada wait two weeks to do anything about it?

[XU_Lou]

The irony here is hysterical. Seriously, stop trusting things like youtube and X for your news source. It's embarrassing.

First of all, this is a really stupid comment. It's an interview, not an anonymous poster on a SM site.


I already said why he said that. Before you post again, read the article, it has charts where the money went, with even further analysis links if you’d like. It very closely matches what zelensky said. If you can’t understand that, I can’t help you any further.

Not really, just unfounded speculation. You and Paul, and the Dems in general seem to be running from this as fast as possible. I don't blame you, this is pretty embarrassing! Your comrade is throwing you under the bus. Don't forget, he was quite clear when he said this at the end of the clip:

"I don't know where all the money is.”

Not that it was being spent on weapons manufacturing. But rather, he said he doesn't know where it is, as if something's wrong. In another recent interview VZ had this exchange (below), which sheds much more light on what he's talking about. VZ is clearly suggesting corruption is involved on the American side. You libs should note that there are also many accusations of corruption within the VZ admin that's coming from within and out of Ukraine.

"Zelensky implied that this development may have been linked to corruption or lobbying on the side of U.S. companies."

"If we had $177 billion and if we get the half, where is the second half? If you find the second half, you will find corruption,"

https://kyivindependent.com/ukraine-has-received-less-than-half-of-us-assistance-allocated-during-full-scale-war-zelensky-says/


Volodymyr Zelenskyy
(02:21:36) Let’s take the aid you mentioned during the war. First of all, we have no money. We have no money except for the war. We received weapons from the United States of America, from Europe. If we take for example money from the United States of America during all this time of the war, around 177 billion have been voted for or decided upon, 177 billion. Let’s be honest, we have not received half of this money.

(02:22:20) The second point, which is very important, just as an example, is it corruption? The first question, whose corruption? This is the second. Here is just one small example for you. When the United States began to transfer US weapons, it was American money, but American weapons, money for these weapons. As a president, I had cargo jets, not in Ukraine. Because of the war, we moved them very quickly to Europe. We had cargo. We have good cargo fleet, very good because of Antonov. So I asked American side to grant me the opportunity because our jets are at another airfield and I asked America to give me the opportunity to use our jets for transfer, not to pay a lot. To whom? To your companies, to American companies. No, I didn’t get this opportunity. My jets stayed put and the United States jets, cargo jets moved these weapons. But everywhere you have to spend money so we could get more weapons, but we have to pay for this very expensive fleet. My question, is this corruption or not? Or lobbyism? What is it?

Lex Fridman
(02:24:05) You mean corruption on the part of the US companies?

Volodymyr Zelenskyy
(02:24:08) Yes. Making such decisions.

Lex Fridman
(02:24:10) Yes, I got it.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy
(02:24:11) The lobbying for such decisions involves some companies that make these decisions, but I can’t be open about it and I couldn’t speak loudly about it. I didn’t want, nor did I intend to cause any scandals to arise because otherwise you can freeze the support and that’s it. And that’s why when we talk about corruption, we must ask who is involved? If we had 177, and if we get the half, where’s the half? If you will find the second half, you will find corruption.

https://lexfridman.com/volodymyr-zelenskyy-transcript/



************************************************** ***********

Either way you look at this, this is a major embarrassment for the Biden admin, the deep state, the war hawks, and all the lemmings that jumped on board with this completely avoidable war. Either the Dems got in bed with a corrupt oligarch, got in bed with a wide-eyed liar, or they and their buddies in the military industrial complex have lined their pockets quite handsomely.

My guess is that we'll know a lot more once the Trump admin and DOGE take a closer look at the books.

No wonder Biden pardoned his entire family going back to 2014.

[Xville]

First of all, this is a really stupid comment. It's an interview, not an anonymous poster on a SM site.



Not really, just unfounded speculation. You and Paul, and the Dems in general seem to be running from this as fast as possible. I don't blame you, this is pretty embarrassing! Your comrade is throwing you under the bus. Don't forget, he was quite clear when he said this at the end of the clip:

"I don't know where all the money is.”

Not that it was being spent on weapons manufacturing. But rather, he said he doesn't know where it is, as if something's wrong. In another recent interview VZ had this exchange (below), which sheds much more light on what he's talking about. VZ is clearly suggesting corruption is involved on the American side. You libs should note that there are also many accusations of corruption within the VZ admin that's coming from within and out of Ukraine.

"Zelensky implied that this development may have been linked to corruption or lobbying on the side of U.S. companies."

"If we had $177 billion and if we get the half, where is the second half? If you find the second half, you will find corruption,"

https://kyivindependent.com/ukraine-has-received-less-than-half-of-us-assistance-allocated-during-full-scale-war-zelensky-says/


Volodymyr Zelenskyy
(02:21:36) LetÂ’s take the aid you mentioned during the war. First of all, we have no money. We have no money except for the war. We received weapons from the United States of America, from Europe. If we take for example money from the United States of America during all this time of the war, around 177 billion have been voted for or decided upon, 177 billion. LetÂ’s be honest, we have not received half of this money.

(02:22:20) The second point, which is very important, just as an example, is it corruption? The first question, whose corruption? This is the second. Here is just one small example for you. When the United States began to transfer US weapons, it was American money, but American weapons, money for these weapons. As a president, I had cargo jets, not in Ukraine. Because of the war, we moved them very quickly to Europe. We had cargo. We have good cargo fleet, very good because of Antonov. So I asked American side to grant me the opportunity because our jets are at another airfield and I asked America to give me the opportunity to use our jets for transfer, not to pay a lot. To whom? To your companies, to American companies. No, I didnÂ’t get this opportunity. My jets stayed put and the United States jets, cargo jets moved these weapons. But everywhere you have to spend money so we could get more weapons, but we have to pay for this very expensive fleet. My question, is this corruption or not? Or lobbyism? What is it?

Lex Fridman
(02:24:05) You mean corruption on the part of the US companies?

Volodymyr Zelenskyy
(02:24:08) Yes. Making such decisions.

Lex Fridman
(02:24:10) Yes, I got it.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy
(02:24:11) The lobbying for such decisions involves some companies that make these decisions, but I canÂ’t be open about it and I couldnÂ’t speak loudly about it. I didnÂ’t want, nor did I intend to cause any scandals to arise because otherwise you can freeze the support and thatÂ’s it. And thatÂ’s why when we talk about corruption, we must ask who is involved? If we had 177, and if we get the half, whereÂ’s the half? If you will find the second half, you will find corruption.

https://lexfridman.com/volodymyr-zelenskyy-transcript/



************************************************** ***********

Either way you look at this, this is a major embarrassment for the Biden admin, the deep state, the war hawks, and all the lemmings that jumped on board with this completely avoidable war. Either the Dems got in bed with a corrupt oligarch, got in bed with a wide-eyed liar, or they and their buddies in the military industrial complex have lined their pockets quite handsomely.

My guess is that we'll know a lot more once the Trump admin and DOGE take a closer look at the books.

No wonder Biden pardoned his entire family going back to 2014.

One of your links was to an anonymous social media content creator on x. IÂ’ve now answered several times where the money is and how itÂ’s being spent from an extremely reputable source, which mirrors exactly what Zelenskyy said in terms of dollars they have received. you choose to ignore that and go on a long diatribe about why or how zelensky answered questions. I donÂ’t even know what you are arguing about at this point. Your original post said the money we gave was a money laundering scheme and a scam. ThatÂ’s been refuted but now youÂ’ve moved on to the next thing. Later lou.

[noteggs]

Ok. So I gave you a direct link with direct evidence in a calm and concise manner, explaining what happened and from a non-biased U.S. think tank that’s been around since the 20s. You in turn, call it a non-sequitur and choose to believe a post on x. Your choice, but an interesting decision.
The article even closely matches exactly what zelensky said in terms of what they have directly received and in what fashion. But it’s a non-sequitur. That’s some interesting critical thinking skills.

Interesting read from CFR, but not biased? The same organization that believes in globalism and one world government?

Their board has a lot of democrats who served under former democratic presidents (including CBS face of the nation star Margaret Brennan and CNN’s Fareed Zakaria). None from republicans or Fox. Their group of individual donors gave 100% to democrats this past election cycle.

They may be nonprofit but certainly not nonpartisan. Yes there are some bias factor checkers say center left but some also say far left. Still article worth reading but…

[Xville]

Interesting read from CFR, but not biased? The same organization that believes in globalism and one world government?

Their board has a lot of democrats who served under former democratic presidents (including CBS face of the nation star Margaret Brennan and CNNÂ’s Fareed Zakaria). None from republicans or Fox. Their group of individual donors gave 100% to democrats this past election cycle.

They may be nonprofit but certainly not nonpartisan. Yes there are some bias factor checkers say center left but some also say far left. Still article worth reading butÂ…

What do you think is more reliable. A think tank that has been around since the 1920s or a social media content creator that posts to x? A number of their council members are republicans, and I’d like to know where you got that 100% of their donors gave to democrats?

I’ll concede that their board membership is skewed after looking it over.

[noteggs]

What do you think is more reliable. A think tank that has been around since the 1920s or a social media content creator that posts to x?

Neither to be honest. That is the problem with the net. We can always find something we agree with or makes our point. I’m just as guilty with this as well.

[Xville]

Neither to be honest. That is the problem with the net. We can always find something we agree with or makes our point. I’m just as guilty with this as well.

I’d also like to point out that within the article there is a link to an analysis done by the American enterprise institute, which is more right and backs up the layout here if that makes you feel more comfortable.

[paulxu]

I hope he doesn't fall too in love with this tactic. You can only go to the well so many times.

Weird (to me) how it played out, though. He told everyone on innauguration day exactly what he was going to do. Why did Mexico and Canada wait two weeks to do anything about it?

Some people may have benefited from shorting stock this morning.
Some of the supposed concessions need a little explanation. Biden got Mexico to surge troops to border without tariff threat.
Fentanyl was already decreasing and hardly any comes from the Canada side.
We agreed to trying to stop arms sales to Mexico which are arming the cartels.

Maybe people are waking up to the fact that middle America will pay for the tariffs while the top 1% are in line for a big tax break.
Hopefully.

[GoMuskies]

Jesus Christ paul, you're better than some of these guys on that score for sure, but you still regurgitate MSNBC talking points like nobody's business.

Nm

[XU_Lou]

One of your links was to an anonymous social media content creator on x. IÂ’ve now answered several times where the money is and how itÂ’s being spent from an extremely reputable source, which mirrors exactly what Zelenskyy said in terms of dollars they have received. you choose to ignore that and go on a long diatribe about why or how zelensky answered questions. I donÂ’t even know what you are arguing about at this point. Your original post said the money we gave was a money laundering scheme and a scam. ThatÂ’s been refuted but now youÂ’ve moved on to the next thing. Later lou.

Try not to act like a cornered animal. It's a pretty simple question: why is Zelensky accusing America of corruption?

[Xville]

Try not to act like a cornered animal. It's a pretty simple question: why is Zelensky accusing America of corruption?

Why are you posting links from an anonymous content creator on x with conspiracy theories and trying to push it as fact? I’ve provided evidence on where that money is. Done my part, bud. It’s now time for you to admit that what you posted from x is garbage with zero evidence. I could find a post from a social content creator on x saying the world is flat, and that it’s all a government conspiracy with zero facts to back it up. Then I could find a video on youtube substantiating it.

Anyways, admit that’s exactly what you did, and then maybe we can opine on zelensky’s motives since neither of us know. Unless of course you know him, personally?

[Xville]

Simple terms, a group of people who have a budget of 40-50bB for other countries that can do whatever they want. Here are some examples

$2.5 MILLION to DEI in Serbia
$70,000 onan Irish DEI musical
$47,000 on transgender operas in Colombia
$32,000 on a trans comic book in Peru
20 MILLION for a Sesame Street in Iraq
56 MILLION to boost tourism in Egypt & Tunisia
$40 MILLION to build schools in Jordan

We do need to help countries but the last 4 years have gotten out of hand

Nice, I have no issues with the schools, tourism and heck even the Sesame Street. I have zero clue what any of that costs, but considering the amount of money spent on other government initiatives, doesn’t sound crazy, honestly. I could do without the dei pet projects.

I’m just skeptical of any politicians actually decreasing our wasteful spending . My cynicism tells me they just start spending it on their own pet projects or put it into Mr and Mrs pocket. Trump said he was going to do this last time, and he spent just like anyone else, even before Covid. I’ll believe it when I see it.

[XU_Lou]

Why are you posting links from an anonymous content creator on x with conspiracy theories and trying to push it as fact? I’ve provided evidence on where that money is. Done my part, bud. It’s now time for you to admit that what you posted from x is garbage with zero evidence. I could find a post from a social content creator on x saying the world is flat, and that it’s all a government conspiracy with zero facts to back it up. Then I could find a video on youtube substantiating it.

Anyways, admit that’s exactly what you did, and then maybe we can opine on zelensky’s motives since neither of us know. Unless of course you know him, personally?

Answer the question, puss.

[Xville]

Answer the question, puss.

Answer my question, puss.

I don’t have facts in front of me, Lou, and I’m certain that you don’t. I don’t know the situation that he was in, I don’t know who those interviewers are, and I sure as hell don’t know Russian. Do you? Again, I presented where the money was spent. Wasn’t that your biggest problem in the first place? Of course it was, because you sent a link from x with wild theories on it, and presented them as facts.

you present wild theories as facts, with zero evidence. That’s your biggest issue.

[XU_Lou]

Answer my question, puss.

I don’t have facts in front of me, Lou, and I’m certain that you don’t. I don’t know the situation that he was in, I don’t know who those interviewers are, and I sure as hell don’t know Russian. Do you? Again, I presented where the money was spent. Wasn’t that your biggest problem in the first place? Of course it was, because you sent a link from x with wild theories on it, and presented them as facts.

you present wild theories as facts, with zero evidence. That’s your biggest issue.

No, it wasn't. And I'm pretty sure you knew that as well. You and Paul love to play that game, but homey don't play it.

Umm, the second interview was in English, and his thoughts were clearly spelled out. Nice try at more obfuscation, though.

What's wrong Ville, are you afraid that answering this question might put you in a trap?

[Xville]

No, it wasn't. And I'm pretty sure you knew that as well. You and Paul love to play that game, but homey don't play it.

Umm, the second interview was in English, and his thoughts were clearly spelled out. Nice try at more obfuscation, though.

What's wrong Ville, are you afraid that answering this question might put you in a trap?

Bud, if you’re not going to admit that you posted a link from x with wild theories with zero evidence, and that wasn’t a concern there is no reason to go on. Why’d you post it if that’s not your concern? Just post your video. We all saw it, so if you’re going to continue to gaslight, I’ll be on my way.

I’ve now answered the question several times lou. Just because it’s not to your liking, doesn’t mean I haven’t answered. I don’t answer with “facts,” when there are only theories, I’m not you.


Here’s more of the full story if you’d like to educate yourself. It’s really not as sinister as you’re trying to make it:

https://www.news18.com/amp/world/volodymyr-zelenskyy-ukraine-received-75-billion-dollars-united-states-foreign-aid-russia-war-donald-trump-corruption-9212438.html

[XU_Lou]

Bud, if you’re not going to admit that you posted a link from x with wild theories with zero evidence, and that wasn’t a concern there is no reason to go on. Why’d you post it if that’s not your concern? Just post your video. We all saw it, so if you’re going to continue to gaslight, I’ll be on my way.

I’ve now answered the question several times lou. Just because it’s not to your liking, doesn’t mean I haven’t answered. I don’t answer with “facts,” when there are only theories, I’m not you.

No, you haven't answered the question, puss...

[GoMuskies]

So, is anything that's happened in the last few days ACTUALLY going to make a difference in our fentanyl (and overall opioid) epidemic?

Hope so, but us Americans do love our opioids.

[Xville]

No, you haven't answered the question, puss...

I sent a link with more information, I've answered with that. In other words, there is more to the story than one interview, as is usually the case when you try a gotcha. I'm moving on.

[Xville]

So, is anything that's happened in the last few days ACTUALLY doing to make a difference in our fentanyl (and overall opioid) epidemic?

Hope so, but us Americans do love our opioids.

I highly doubt it. As you alluded to, It's not like fentanyl is the first and only drug problem we've had as a country.

[XU_Lou]

I sent a link with more information, I've answered with that. In other words, there is more to the story than one interview, as is usually the case when you try a gotcha. I'm moving on.

You're joking, right? There's absolutely nothing new in that article. You keep linking the same information.

Why is Zelensky accusing America of corruption?

[GoMuskies]

Elizabeth Warren is going to bat for big pharma again as Kennedy gets voted out of Committee to the full Senate.

[Xville]

You're joking, right? There's absolutely nothing new in that article. You keep linking the same information.

Why is Zelensky accusing America of corruption?

So, even in the article, he references corruption and lobbyism for one.

For two, he probably didn't see the CFR link that I sent to you or have it explained to him by the previous administration how our government works and exactly how the money was going to be split up. He doesn't understand that 177 billion being approved by Congress doesn't mean that 177 billion goes directly to Ukraine. So, he's throwing out theories. Would it be surprising to you that the previous administration didn’t communicate any of this to him about how it would work? I'm not sure why you are having such trouble connecting the dots. But there, I did it for you.

Later Lou.

[Xville]

Elizabeth Warren is going to bat for big pharma again as Kennedy gets voted out of Committee to the full Senate.

Ah what is our fan favorite doing now? She's a special bird...does she have a Pfizer #1 foam finger on?

[GoMuskies]

Ah what is our fan favorite doing now? She's a special bird...does she have a Pfizer #1 foam finger on?

She's worried about the poor pharmaceutical companies being sued out of business because of their miniscule profit margins.

She might even be right on their profit margins, but I didn't hear her saying the same thing when grocers were being accused of price gouging. Wait, they weren't "being accused" of price gouging. Warren was the one doing the accusing.

[Xville]

She's worried about the poor pharmaceutical companies being sued out of business because of their miniscule profit margins.

She might even be right on their profit margins, but I didn't hear her saying the same thing when grocers were being accused of price gouging. Wait, they weren't "being accused" of price gouging. Warren was the one doing the accusing.

Trust me, she's not. They are one of the main problems....they are all in bed together....Pharm Companies, Insurance Companies and Hospitals. They point fingers at each other, while they all sit on piles of money, and in some cases are all the same company under different names.

[paulxu]

Elizabeth Warren is going to bat for big pharma again as Kennedy gets voted out of Committee to the full Senate.

What does that mean? She voted against him in the Finance Committee along with all D's. All R's voted for him.

[paulxu]

In case you have reached the Social Security payment age:


A 25-year-old DOGE operative named Marko Elez in fact has admin privileges on these critical systems, which directly control and pay out roughly 95% of payments made by the U.S. government, including Social Security checks, tax refunds and virtually all contract payments. I can independently confirm these details based on conversations going back to the weekend. I can further report that Elez not only has full access to these systems, he has already made extensive changes to the code base for these critical payment system.

https://www.wired.com/story/elon-musk-associate-bfs-federal-payment-system/

[XU_Lou]

So, even in the article, he references corruption and lobbyism for one.

For two, he probably didn't see the CFR link that I sent to you or have it explained to him by the previous administration how our government works and exactly how the money was going to be split up. He doesn't understand that 177 billion being approved by Congress doesn't mean that 177 billion goes directly to Ukraine. So, he's throwing out theories. Would it be surprising to you that the previous administration didn’t communicate any of this to him about how it would work? I'm not sure why you are having such trouble connecting the dots. But there, I did it for you.

Later Lou.

Actually, I'm not all that surprised that a Missouri-educated troll can't grasp what's happening:

1) You, Paul and all the other Dems with their Ukranian flags posted all over their social media accounts sainted a man that is either (a) stupid, (b) a liar, (c) a corrupt oligarch, (d) has discovered corruption in America, or (e) a variation of a thru d. Not a good look for all the lemmings that blindly got on board with that war!!!

2) That you can't connect the dots: Zelensky accusing the USA of corruption, Biden pardoning his entire family, Burisma and Hunter Biden's role, and Biden's shady dealings in Ukraine.

3) The fact that you didn't seem to notice in the link that you attached that even Elon Musk took notice of Zelensky's comments, and will likely launch a full investigation thru DOGE.

Saving this conversation for sure. The crow will be quite delicious, I'm sure.

[Xville]

Actually, I'm not all that surprised that a Missouri-educated troll can't grasp what's happening:

1) You, Paul and all the other Dems with their Ukranian flags posted all over their social media accounts sainted a man that is either (a) stupid, (b) a liar, (c) a corrupt oligarch, (d) has discovered corruption in America, or (e) a variation of a thru d. Not a good look for all the lemmings that blindly got on board with that war!!! This is a typical response from you. Grouping together everyone that disagrees with your point of view into one bucket. Any idea what the definition of that is?

2) That you can't connect the dots: Zelensky accusing the USA of corruption, Biden pardoning his entire family, Burisma and Hunter Biden's role, and Biden's shady dealings in Ukraine.

That's certainly one way to look at it.


3) The fact that you didn't seem to notice in the link that you attached that even Elon Musk took notice of Zelensky's comments, and will likely launch a full investigation thru DOGE.

What's your point? I'm very well it was in there. What's that change? I know you digest everything that Musk and Trump do, and that you take it as gospel.

Saving this conversation for sure. The crow will be quite delicious, I'm sure.

Missouri-educated troll? Classy Lou. Later buddy.

[GoMuskies]

What does that mean? She voted against him in the Finance Committee along with all D's. All R's voted for him.

Yes, she made another statement doubling down on her big pharma shilling as part of the meeting where the Committee voted.

[Xville]

Yes, she made another statement doubling down on her big pharma shilling as part of the meeting where the Committee voted.

I'm going to hit you all with a few statistics to further emphasize my point regarding pharma:

---From 1984-2022 US RX Drug Spending has increased at a rate of 3132% .

---Specialty Drugs (the ones with the ads on tv) account for 60% of the spend, but only 3% of the total prescriptions.

--Genetic Therapies have the potential to bankrupt an employer's plan with price tags in the millions per therapy. This is one of the hottest and fastest rising costs, and success rate isn't all that high for something with that kind of a price tag. These therapies are being developed and approved at a quickening pace

It's the most unregulated industry in the entire world, and these companies are very good at hiding their profit, along with playing whack a mole with their profit centers.

People like Warren should burn in absolute hell for defending this industry.

[GoMuskies]

So the US is taking over Gaza? Between that, Panama, Greenland and Canada, pretty soon we won't have to worry about immigration anymore. Everywhere will be American. From the Gulf of America to the American Ocean to the East American Ocean to Lake America. Going to be exciting times.

[Xville]

So the US is taking over Gaza? Between that, Panama, Greenland and Canada, pretty soon we won't have to worry about immigration anymore. Everywhere will be American. From the Gulf of America to the American Ocean to the East American Ocean to Lake America. Going to be exciting times.

Well, didn’t he say he could murder someone on the street and his followers would just gulp it up and love him more? I forgot the exact quote. He knows he can say whatever insane shit he wants and his followers will just keep blowing him, while also putting Hollywood and people like Warren and aoc into hysterics.

[Xville]

Apparently Egypt and Jordan are going to take all the Palestinians. That’s nice of them, though it’s the first they’ve heard of it. Lol

[GoMuskies]

WSJ reports that Gabbard and Kennedy are on the "glide path" to confirmation after clearing Committee yesterday. Apparently, it took a lot of lobbying from JD Vance and some from Trump to get a couple of Senators on board at the Committee stage, but now that they're through that both are expected to be confirmed.

[xuwillie]

Watching the ultra left woke democrats cry about Musk yesterday was pretty funny. Why are they so against downsizing our govt? Most Americans want this

[Xville]

Watching the ultra left woke democrats cry about Musk yesterday was pretty funny. Why are they so against downsizing our govt? Most Americans want this

I'm in favor of downsizing our government and getting their hands out of the cookie jar so to speak, but I'm not sure if I trust Musk. He's obviously a smart man, but he's not the most level-headed person in the world, and giving him this much responsibility is a little uncomfortable for me. He's a little too much like Trump for my taste.

I'm just excited to buy my winter home in Gaza. Should be lovely.

[xuwillie]

I'm in favor of downsizing our government and getting their hands out of the cookie jar so to speak, but I'm not sure if I trust Musk. He's obviously a smart man, but he's not the most level-headed person in the world, and giving him this much responsibility is a little uncomfortable for me. He's a little too much like Trump for my taste.

I'm just excited to buy my winter home in Gaza. Should be lovely.

There's a problem when Omar gets on TV and says it's only 50billion and a small % of our budget when questioned about certain spending. Who is level headed to make any decisions in DC right now?? That's been the problem for years now. Gotta at least try, moving education back to states would be a good start.

[Xville]

There's a problem when Omar gets on TV and says it's only 50billion and a small % of our budget when questioned about certain spending. Who is level headed to make any decisions in DC right now?? That's been the problem for years now. Gotta at least try, moving education back to states would be a good start.

I agree regarding the brotherfucker. There are some real crazies on the fringes of both.

My main concern is healthcare. Rfk is talking a really big game, so I hope he follows thru, minus the crazy anti vax part. Health is honestly the biggest issue from a spending perspective than anything. Education is peanuts compared to that industry and the money that lines eeveryon’s pockets at the top

[xuwillie]

I agree regarding the brotherfucker. There are some real crazies on the fringes of both.

My main concern is healthcare. Rfk is talking a really big game, so I hope he follows thru, minus the crazy anti vax part. Health is honestly the biggest issue from a spending perspective than anything. Education is peanuts compared to that industry and the money that lines eeveryon’s pockets at the top

Agree on Healthcare as well. Both of those issues are huge problems right now. Education although not the same money is a huge issue imo. We continually spend more money and our kids get dumber and dumber compared to other countries.

[paulxu]

Do you suppose the "buyout" letter, sent to "all" CIA employees went to our undercover agents overseas?

[xuwillie]

https://www.shorenewsnetwork.com/2025/02/05/politico-faces-payroll-issues-amid-revelations-of-u-s-government-funding/

No we are seeing the real reason why all these democratic leaders are worried about musk.

[bobbiemcgee]

Are all you right wingerss. Going to vacation in Gaza?

[XU_Lou]

Are all you right wingerss. Going to vacation in Gaza?

Do you mean MAGAza?

[XU_Lou]

To quote the great Robert Plant: "All will be revealed"


In related news:

Trump enjoys a 52% approval rating
Democrat party has a 31% approval rating

[xuwillie]

I'm in favor of downsizing our government and getting their hands out of the cookie jar so to speak, but I'm not sure if I trust Musk. He's obviously a smart man, but he's not the most level-headed person in the world, and giving him this much responsibility is a little uncomfortable for me. He's a little too much like Trump for my taste.

I'm just excited to buy my winter home in Gaza. Should be lovely.

Angeline Jolie rec'd 20m to visit Ukraine. This usaid is a complete shi*show, no wonder they are up in arms over musk auditing

[bjf123]

Angeline Jolie rec'd 20m to visit Ukraine. This usaid is a complete shi*show, no wonder they are up in arms over musk auditing

She received $20MM from USAID? Shut that shit down!


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[GoMuskies]

XVille should be much pleased. It seems DOGE is crawling through the Medicare and Medicaid payment systems searching for fraud. This should be interesting.

[XU_Lou]

She received $20MM from USAID? Shut that shit down!


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

She's not the only celebrity. The Dems want to continue with grift.

[Xville]

It’s cute when people imply that grifitng is only on one side of the aisle. I’m sure DOGE will find just dems and dem supported programs though. It’s inevitable. There’s a reason why politicians on both sides will literally do anything short of murder to keep their post.

[XU_Lou]

I wonder if that's where part of the $100B went that Zelensky was referring to when he accused the US of corruption! LOL!!!

[xuphan]

82 year old Mitch McConnell falls twice at the capital? Term limits anyone?

[GoMuskies]

At least age limits. Probably term limits, too, though.

[xuwillie]

It’s cute when people imply that grifitng is only on one side of the aisle. I’m sure DOGE will find just dems and dem supported programs though. It’s inevitable. There’s a reason why politicians on both sides will literally do anything short of murder to keep their post.

But you'd have to agree the programs the last 4 years were out of control. But if your correct yeah Id like to see the democrats when in charge again do the same thing DOGE IS doing now

[Xville]

But you'd have to agree the programs the last 4 years were out of control. But if your correct yeah Id like to see the democrats when in charge again do the same thing DOGE IS doing now

Oh, I’m sure the last four were outrageous probably exponentially. However, I’m not naive to think reckless spending and grifting hasn’t been going on for at least decades by both parties. Somehow politicians go in poor and end up incredibly rich while in and after. It doesn’t take a genius to know what’s going on

[noteggs]

Strange Jordan refuses to take the Gaza folks, since their population is 67% Palestinian. Kinda tells you something. Not taking sides or advocating, but interesting.

[paulxu]

It seems the Jolie/USAID story first appeared on Pravda.
Then pushed assumedly by X to those who algorithms buy into this sort of stuff.

Not the most reliable source.

[noteggs]

Why are some so against cutting spending? Realize some democrats on here were worried as well…

[XU_Lou]

Damn, the Democrats are really pissed with this DOGE stuff. I haven't seen them this mad since the Republicans freed their slaves.

[noteggs]

It seems the Jolie/USAID story first appeared on Pravda.
Then pushed assumedly by X to those who algorithms buy into this sort of stuff.

Not the most reliable source.

Care to share source?

[paulxu]

Just google the story. You can find a lot of stuff about Pravda being the first place it showed up.

Here's an example of how crazy the dissemination of false narrative is in today's media world.

https://www.yahoo.com/news/ben-stiller-shuts-down-lies-231648290.html

[xuwillie]

Why are some so against cutting spending? Realize some democrats on here were worried as well…

Yeah you'd think everyone would want to get rid of wasteful spending just like men in women's sports! Crazy time we live in

[xuwillie]

https://x.com/IsaiahLCarter/status/1887290743032561803

Sums it up

[Xville]

Yeah you'd think everyone would want to get rid of wasteful spending just like men in women's sports! Crazy time we live in

I don’t think (I’d hope I’m not) there is anyone that wouldn’t want to get rid of wasteful spending, minus the politicians and the affected orgs of course. The problem I can see people having is the person doing it. ( I don’t trust musk for shit), and the how. Tbh though i don’t know if id trust anyone doing it. It’s probably the cynic in me in terms of human nature and the government in general, but i believe anyone doing it is just doing it for their own self interest. I have a really hard time believing anyone is doing anything to help the American public. I think it’s mostly bs and smoke and mirrors. Just my opinion.

[XU_Lou]

Looks like the Dems are stalling for more time to shred all the evidence at the FBI.

[xuphan]

Yeah you'd think everyone would want to get rid of wasteful spending just like men in women's sports! Crazy time we live in

Ya, it looks like the left is getting their rally’s going over this which I really don’t understand. However, my problem with DOGE like anything else that comes from Washington is bi-partisan thoroughness. Will republican Musk identify and work to remove right wing wasteful spending as well or is this just a left wing attack. DOGE is good if it roots out all wasteful spending in Washington. I just don’t have much faith that it will. Happy to be proven wrong but doubt I will be.

[noteggs]

Just google the story. You can find a lot of stuff about Pravda being the first place it showed up.

Here's an example of how crazy the dissemination of false narrative is in today's media world.

https://www.yahoo.com/news/ben-stiller-shuts-down-lies-231648290.html

Ah, misread your quote. Guess I have a reading comprehension problem after all.

Honestly had no idea what Pravda was. Hopefully the government was not tracking my google searches lol.

Definitely agree on the news these days.

[noteggs]

I don’t think (I’d hope I’m not) there is anyone that wouldn’t want to get rid of wasteful spending, minus the politicians and the affected orgs of course. The problem I can see people having is the person doing it. ( I don’t trust musk for shit), and the how. Tbh though i don’t know if id trust anyone doing it. It’s probably the cynic in me in terms of human nature and the government in general, but i believe anyone doing it is just doing it for their own self interest. I have a really hard time believing anyone is doing anything to help the American public. I think it’s mostly bs and smoke and mirrors. Just my opinion.

I share your cynicism for sure. Could it be handled differently? Of course it is Trump. But it sure is awesome to see someone bringing this to light.

When you are pissing off both sides of the aisle, you’re doing something right. Just what until they find fraud and abuse to Medicare and Social Security, heads will truly explode!

Side note (I realize it was not brought up) when it comes to the severance packages. There is not one person I know who hasn’t been affected by them. They truly suck and should be done as a last resort. However when you are 37T in debt, you gotta do what you gotta do.

This is the one area I don’t understand why you would need Congress approval. If the employees were budgeted to get paid over the next 8 months anyway, what is the difference? Assuming they have control of headcount?

[XU_Lou]

Ah, misread your quote. Guess I have a reading comprehension problem after all.

Honestly had no idea what Pravda was. Hopefully the government was not tracking my google searches lol.

Definitely agree on the news these days.

It's still not clear if that's true or not. However, USAID gave money to Politico and the BBC - which is an exponentially FAR WORSE scandal. The BBC ain't happy:

https://www.bbc.com/mediaaction/press-release/4-feb-25


It's unbelievable that the Dems are hanging themselves over this.

[paulxu]

USAID purchased subscriptions. Big deal.

What is tough to understand is why Musk wanted to target and shut down USAID.
There is hard power (military) in foreign policy, and soft power (aid). Everything that USAID does is earmarked by Congress.
They just pass out the food, clothing and medicine to needy areas around the world.
If there is "wasteful" spending, look to Congress.
They build good will with foreign nations to preserve our relations against China and Russia.

China and Russia are licking their chops to take our place with these countries and garner their good will and support; trade, raw materials, etc.
Well done Elon. Idiot.

[GoMuskies]

Yeah, Elon, you're so dumb.

[Xville]

USAID purchased subscriptions. Big deal.

What is tough to understand is why Musk wanted to target and shut down USAID.
There is hard power (military) in foreign policy, and soft power (aid). Everything that USAID does is earmarked by Congress.
They just pass out the food, clothing and medicine to needy areas around the world.
If there is "wasteful" spending, look to Congress.
They build good will with foreign nations to preserve our relations against China and Russia.

China and Russia are licking their chops to take our place with these countries and garner their good will and support; trade, raw materials, etc.
Well done Elon. Idiot.

The guy worth 400 billion is an idiot? Man, I wish I was that stupid. You can question his motives or sincerity on certain things, but saying he’s an idiot, is well, being an idiot

[Xville]

https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/2025/02/06/trump-usaid-money-american-farms/

Two sides to every story. Something to think about. I would like to know how the government is going to replace that funding for American farmers? There is some good and bad with most things, this seems to be one of them and why there should be a little impulse control by trump, which in itself is funny for me to type.

Of course I understand 2020 is probably an outlier so there is some hyperbole at play here, but I’m now thinking it’s a significant amount for the farm industry every year.

I’m also very well aware of the source. I fact checked it (some that might be wise for a few of you to do before posting) from multiple sources, and some I had not heard of but you can look for yourself

[XU_Lou]

USAID purchased subscriptions. Big deal.

What is tough to understand is why Musk wanted to target and shut down USAID.
There is hard power (military) in foreign policy, and soft power (aid). Everything that USAID does is earmarked by Congress.
They just pass out the food, clothing and medicine to needy areas around the world.
If there is "wasteful" spending, look to Congress.
They build good will with foreign nations to preserve our relations against China and Russia.

China and Russia are licking their chops to take our place with these countries and garner their good will and support; trade, raw materials, etc.
Well done Elon. Idiot.

Are you trying to tell us that the Irish will drift towards China and Russia if they're unable to watch a DEI musical?

The Ecuadorians will begin speaking Mandarin if they can't watch drag shows?

Will the Guatemalans begin rooting for the Russians in the Olympics if they don't get sex changes?



Can you think for yourself, just once?

[XU_Lou]

USAID purchased subscriptions. Big deal.

What is tough to understand is why Musk wanted to target and shut down USAID.
There is hard power (military) in foreign policy, and soft power (aid). Everything that USAID does is earmarked by Congress.
They just pass out the food, clothing and medicine to needy areas around the world.
If there is "wasteful" spending, look to Congress.
They build good will with foreign nations to preserve our relations against China and Russia.

China and Russia are licking their chops to take our place with these countries and garner their good will and support; trade, raw materials, etc.
Well done Elon. Idiot.


The truth of the matter:

“They have basically evolved into an agency that believes that they’re not even a U.S. government agency, that they are out — they’re a global charity, that they take the taxpayer money, and they spend it as a global charity irrespective of whether it is in the national interest or not in the national interest,” Rubio said Monday.

“One of the most common complaints you will get if you go to embassies around the world from State Department officials and ambassadors and the like is USAID is not only not cooperative — they undermine the work that we’re doing in that country, they are supporting programs that upset the host government for whom we’re trying to work with on a broader scale, and so forth,” he added.

https://thehill.com/policy/international/5124933-marco-rubio-usaid-overhaul-rank-insubordination/


And:

“The Department of State and other pertinent entities will be consulting with Congress and the appropriate committees to reorganize and absorb certain bureaus, offices, and missions of USAID,” he wrote in the letter, a copy of which was obtained by CNN.

“USAID may move, reorganize, and integrate certain missions, bureaus, and offices into the Department of State, and the remainder of the Agency may be abolished consistent with applicable law,” he wrote.

When asked about the arguments that USAID’s work is vital to national security and promoting US interests, Rubio said, “There are things that USAID, that we do through USAID, that we should continue to do, and we will continue to do.”

“This is not about ending the programs that USAID does, per se,” he said.

https://www.cnn.com/2025/02/03/politics/usaid-washington-workers/index.html


So, please, spare us the theatrical hand-wringing...

[Xville]

The truth of the matter:

“They have basically evolved into an agency that believes that they’re not even a U.S. government agency, that they are out — they’re a global charity, that they take the taxpayer money, and they spend it as a global charity irrespective of whether it is in the national interest or not in the national interest,” Rubio said Monday.

“One of the most common complaints you will get if you go to embassies around the world from State Department officials and ambassadors and the like is USAID is not only not cooperative — they undermine the work that we’re doing in that country, they are supporting programs that upset the host government for whom we’re trying to work with on a broader scale, and so forth,” he added.

https://thehill.com/policy/international/5124933-marco-rubio-usaid-overhaul-rank-insubordination/


And:

“The Department of State and other pertinent entities will be consulting with Congress and the appropriate committees to reorganize and absorb certain bureaus, offices, and missions of USAID,” he wrote in the letter, a copy of which was obtained by CNN.

“USAID may move, reorganize, and integrate certain missions, bureaus, and offices into the Department of State, and the remainder of the Agency may be abolished consistent with applicable law,” he wrote.

When asked about the arguments that USAID’s work is vital to national security and promoting US interests, Rubio said, “There are things that USAID, that we do through USAID, that we should continue to do, and we will continue to do.”

“This is not about ending the programs that USAID does, per se,” he said.

https://www.cnn.com/2025/02/03/politics/usaid-washington-workers/index.html


So, please, spare us the theatrical hand-wringing...

Saying and doing are two different things, and you have no clue what that really means in real life and neither does anyone else because nothing he said has happened yet . And regardless you’re right, politicians never lie.

[Muskie in dayton]

Just google the story. You can find a lot of stuff about Pravda being the first place it showed up.

Here's an example of how crazy the dissemination of false narrative is in today's media world.

https://www.yahoo.com/news/ben-stiller-shuts-down-lies-231648290.html
Ben Stiller is your source. Nice.

At least it’s one step better than, “trust me, bro”.

Actually, no, it’s not.

[Muskie in dayton]

Democrats aren’t upset about DOGE finding waste and efficiencies. They’re upset because DOGE has started to ruin their money laundering schemes.

We’ve barely scratched the surface. My popcorn bowl is full, and I’m loving it.

[paulxu]

Educate yourselves instead of being forced fed algorithms that reinforce your fantasies.

Start at the 2:20 mark. It's George W. Bush's director of USAID, a staunch conservative.
He'll explain to you the facts of the agency.

https://www.msnbc.com/deadline-white-house/watch/-a-lot-of-garbage-fmr-republican-usaid-administrator-slams-musk-and-trump-for-gutting-agency-231319109775

[XU_Lou]

Educate yourselves instead of being forced fed algorithms that reinforce your fantasies.

Start at the 2:20 mark. It's George W. Bush's director of USAID, a staunch conservative.
He'll explain to you the facts of the agency.

https://www.msnbc.com/deadline-white-house/watch/-a-lot-of-garbage-fmr-republican-usaid-administrator-slams-musk-and-trump-for-gutting-agency-231319109775

I'll go with Trump:

US President Donald Trump confirmed on Thursday that “billions of dollars have been stolen at USAID and other agencies.”:

https://www.thegatewaypundit.com/2025/02/president-trump-billions-have-been-stolen-usaid-other/

[GoMuskies]

Paul posting an MSNBC link is a bit on the nose.

[paulxu]

Paul posting an MSNBC link is a bit on the nose.

Good lord. It's a link to a Republican conservative live, on air, telling people what USAID really does.
And you're worried about where he was speaking? Listen to it.

Send me a link of a Democrat being interviewed on Fox about a topic, I'll listen to it and not complain he's on Fox.
Those are knowledgeable people talking about their experience. Not opinions.

Rubio a couple years ago:
But just three years ago, Rubio argued the exact opposite, urging the Biden administration in a 2022 letter to prioritize USAID’s funding as a key tool to “counter the Chinese Communist Party’s expanding global influence.”

[GoMuskies]

I don't want my phone to get cancer.

[hoopster68]

The Trumpster's victory in November provided an opportunity to revamp the federal government within the confines of the Constitution. Unfortunately for the country Trump & his minions forgot/never learned/don't care about the phrase "within the confines of the Constitution." Three examples show their collective disdain for the rule of law:
1. access to US payment systems by Muskovites
2. collapsing of USAID
3. threat to take over Gaza
Hang on Americans, it's going to be a bumpy ride!

[bobbiemcgee]

So he wants to displace 4 million Palestinians but no protests

[XU_Lou]

A group of leading scientists in Norway is sounding the alarm after a major study of international mortality data linked Covid mRNA “vaccines” to a global surge in excess deaths: https://slaynews.com/news/norway-sounds-alarm-scientists-link-covid-vaccines-global-death-surge/


Lawmakers in Montana have introduced a new bill to completely ban Covid mRNA “vaccines,” citing the “enormous numbers of deaths, disabilities, and serious adverse events” caused by the injections: https://slaynews.com/news/new-bill-demands-ban-covid-vaccines-due-enormous-numbers-deaths/


Japan Sounds Alarm as Heart Failure Surges 4900% Among Covid-Vaxxed: https://slaynews.com/news/japan-sounds-alarm-heart-failure-surges-4900-among-covid-vaxxed/

[XU_Lou]

NM

[Xville]

Slay News? LOL. You know that site is barely a step above the onion right? lol

[noteggs]

No one is doubting USAID has done some good work around the globe over the years. Unfortunately it sounds like it missed some of its missions along the way. BTW I’m shocked beyond shocked actually that a never Trumper would be against this audit (if that is what you want to call it).

Andrew Natsios is trying to regain his 5 minutes of fame by appearing on all the liberal channels. Also, he expressed his disdain for Trump’s handling of the agency back in 2017.

Here he is sighting Trump’s lack qualifications before the first term.

https://warontherocks.com/2016/03/open-letter-on-donald-trump-from-gop-national-security-leaders/
I don’t know anything thing about website but it was a link from a CNN article.

Obviously this is not the 2005 Republican party. Bureaucrats in DC don’t like it.

[XU_Lou]

Slay News? LOL. You know that site is barely a step above the onion right? lol

Are you really that much of a dinosaur?

[Xville]

Are you really that much of a dinosaur?

If you have the time to post links from erroneous sources, you have the time to fact check things before posting

[XU_Lou]

If you have the time to post links from erroneous sources, you have the time to fact check things before posting

Oh, we're back to that tactic, after you got completely demolished 4 years ago.

[Xville]

Oh, we're back to that tactic, after you got completely demolished 4 years ago.

lol sure lou. Funny you use that timeline considering what you were going to come back and tell me. Later Lou.

[paulxu]

Today's edition of "I'm a little 5th grade bully boy"...Trump revokes Biden's access to classified intelligence and daily briefings, guts the Kennedy Center board and appoints himself as the Chairman.

[GoMuskies]

Day 19 of 1461

[XU_Lou]

lol sure lou. Funny you use that timeline considering what you were going to come back and tell me. Later Lou.

Is there anyone on this board with expertise in the Missouri backwoods dialect that can decipher what the hell he's trying to say?

[Muskie in dayton]

Today's edition of "I'm a little 5th grade bully boy"...Trump revokes Biden's access to classified intelligence and daily briefings, guts the Kennedy Center board and appoints himself as the Chairman.
Common sense dictates it’s a bad idea for someone in late stage dementia to have access to national security matters.

[Muskie in dayton]

You can tell by the level of Dem agitation that the USAID thing was the hub of their cesspool. The level of fraud and corruption is astounding. I knew it was bad, but this is beyond my wildest expectation.

We’re just getting started.

[paulxu]

Common sense dictates it’s a bad idea for someone in late stage dementia to have access to national security matters.

But apparently anyone who would spirit them out of the White House and store them in a bathroom in Florida is in their right mind?

OK then.

[XU_Lou]

Common sense dictates it’s a bad idea for someone in late stage dementia to have access to national security matters.

LOL, when I read dementia, I thought you were referring to Paul, and how he apparently "forgot" that Biden revoked Trump's security clearance!

[XU_Lou]

I suppose that $472.6m that USAID has given to media outlets around the world was all just "subscriptions"....

[XU_Lou]

I wonder if John Fetterman reads this board. He seems to referring to several of our posters:


“I think their primary currency was shaming and scolding and talking down to people and telling them, ‘Hey, I know better than you,’ or ‘You’re dopes,’ or ‘You’re a bro,’ or ‘You’re ignorant,’ or ‘How can you be this dumb?’ I can’t imagine it. And then, by the way, they’re fascists. How can you vote for that?’” Fetterman said.

[Xuperman]

But apparently anyone who would spirit them out of the White House and store them in a bathroom in Florida is in their right mind?

OK then.

Paul....TDS has made your life miserable.

This was Biden BEFORE he had more than one brain cell.

https://abcnews.go.com/Politics/classified-documents-found-bidens-wilmington-home-garage-white/story?id=96390141

[paulxu]

Anybody who would provoke a riot that took over the United States Capitol, and stole state secrets, refusing to return them...should have their security clearance revoked.

That's just common sense; sometimes sadly lacking here.

[XU_Lou]

Of course I can - he simply didn't care:



Matt Van Swol
@matt_vanswol
CAN SOMEONE PLEASE EXPLAIN TO ME HOW PRESIDENT TRUMP’S FEMA JUST HANDLED 80% OF ALL OPEN HURRICANE HELENE VICTIM CASES IN WESTERN NORTH CAROLINA IN 5 DAYS…

…WHEN JOE BIDEN COULDN’T DO IT IN 4 MONTHS?!!!!!!!!

https://x.com/matt_vanswol/status/1888310159417417865




Matt Van Swol
@matt_vanswol
·
1h
��#BREAKING: Secretary of Homeland Security, Kristi Noem has confirmed that President Trump's FEMA has decreased the number of OPEN CASES by Hurricane Helene victims in Western North Carolina...

...by a stunning 80% in the past 5 days ALONE.

HOLY CRAP!!!!!!!!!

https://x.com/matt_vanswol/status/1888293890094141850





Matt Van Swol
@matt_vanswol
·
2m
��#BREAKING: President Trump’s new Homeland Security Secretary, Kristi Noem, lets a grandmother whose home was destroyed during Hurricane Helene, tell her why dealing with FEMA was a nightmare…

…and how to fix it in Western North Carolina!

WOW!!!!!!!!

https://x.com/matt_vanswol/status/1888313270202781995




Matt Van Swol
@matt_vanswol
·
Feb 6
��#BREAKING: Clean-up crews from all over the nation are now “surging into Western North Carolina” after President Trump’s executive order.

For the first time, debris is being removed from the rivers and stream in Buncombe County by the Army Corps of Engineers.

AMAZING!!!!!!!!

https://x.com/matt_vanswol/status/1887635895425376556





Matt Van Swol
@matt_vanswol
��#BREAKING: In a SHOCKING admission, the NC State Treasurer's office has confirmed that out of the $100 MILLION set aside to support local Western North Carolina governments impacted by Hurricane Helene...

... a grand total of $0 has been given out to date

Read that again.

https://x.com/matt_vanswol/status/1886529281116835932

[Strange Brew]

But apparently anyone who would spirit them out of the White House and store them in a bathroom in Florida is in their right mind?

OK then.

Or in their garage in DE.

[paulxu]

https://cdn.bsky.app/img/feed_thumbnail/plain/did:plc:rfqxk4moeeaputu63rm4tfdc/bafkreibwwzsco7tpfkyctabenswucqhz62jil4z4cilq43usz q3y2prttq@jpeg

Tesla paid $0 in federal income tax last year.

2022: $0
2021: $0
2020: $0
2019: $0
2018: $0

Tesla reported $6.7 billion in profit in those years.

Suckers.

[XU_Lou]

https://cdn.bsky.app/img/feed_thumbnail/plain/did:plc:rfqxk4moeeaputu63rm4tfdc/bafkreibwwzsco7tpfkyctabenswucqhz62jil4z4cilq43usz q3y2prttq@jpeg

Tesla paid $0 in federal income tax last year.

2022: $0
2021: $0
2020: $0
2019: $0
2018: $0

Tesla reported $6.7 billion in profit in those years.

Suckers.


Good for him! I want every company I invest in to pay as little in taxes as possible. If his accountants hadn't taken advantage of all the legal loop holes, they should all be fired.

Moreover, why in the hell should anyone pay taxes only to have them spent on transgender musicals in Kenya?

So, speaking of loop holes, Paul: What number do you put in Line 12 of your 1040 last year? Did you ever use line 19? Have you ever reported anything on Schedule 1, Part 2 (or its predecessor)?

Sucker....

[GoMuskies]

https://cdn.bsky.app/img/feed_thumbnail/plain/did:plc:rfqxk4moeeaputu63rm4tfdc/bafkreibwwzsco7tpfkyctabenswucqhz62jil4z4cilq43usz q3y2prttq@jpeg

Tesla paid $0 in federal income tax last year.

2022: $0
2021: $0
2020: $0
2019: $0
2018: $0

Tesla reported $6.7 billion in profit in those years.

Suckers.

Paul, this woman stole your post. You should sue her for copyright infringement.

https://x.com/DarrigoMelanie/status/1888361435643646452

[bjf123]

Personal pet peeve of mine. “Loop hole” implies something nefarious or underhanded. It just means they took advantage of the tax law as written by Congress. Nothing wrong with that.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Muskie in dayton]

Anybody who would provoke a riot that took over the United States Capitol, and stole state secrets, refusing to return them...should have their security clearance revoked.

That's just common sense; sometimes sadly lacking here.
If you truly believe those that happened, you are a blatant, brainwashed, bonehead.

I do believe that you believe that happened.

[Muskie in dayton]

https://cdn.bsky.app/img/feed_thumbnail/plain/did:plc:rfqxk4moeeaputu63rm4tfdc/bafkreibwwzsco7tpfkyctabenswucqhz62jil4z4cilq43usz q3y2prttq@jpeg

Tesla paid $0 in federal income tax last year.

2022: $0
2021: $0
2020: $0
2019: $0
2018: $0

Tesla reported $6.7 billion in profit in those years.

Suckers.

The funniest thing is you don't even realize your stolen post from Melanie D'Arrigo' X account fully supports Elon's position.

Melanie is also too stupid to realize it.

[xuphan]

The funniest thing is you don't even realize your stolen post from Melanie D'Arrigo' X account fully supports Elon's position.

Melanie is also too stupid to realize it.

Elon Musk has a net worth of around 400 billion and his companies pay no federal income tax? Seems like money that could be used to pay down this countries debt.

[UCGRAD4X]

Personal pet peeve of mine. “Loop hole” implies something nefarious or underhanded. It just means they took advantage of the tax law as written by Congress. Nothing wrong with that.

The government makes certain things deductible to encourage spending on things they deem important to the benefit of the country as a whole (in theory). The fact that the company is spending so much money to the national benefit, that is completely overcomes it's tax obligation, should be a good thing. The money would otherwise go into the general fund to non-prefered expenditures.

[paulxu]

Personal pet peeve of mine. “Loop hole” implies something nefarious or underhanded. It just means they took advantage of the tax law as written by Congress. Nothing wrong with that.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Yikes. Sorry I forgot to post the link to the source.
And you are correct sir. There is nothing wrong about utilizing the law as written in doing your taxes.

But if you're Elon Musk...and you are COMPLAINING about loopholes...well, I trust you can see the problem there.

[paulxu]

If you truly believe those that happened, you are a blatant, brainwashed, bonehead.

I do believe that you believe that happened.

So you don't believe he took top secret documents to Mar-a-Lago and refused to return them when given a subpoena, necessitating a search warrant to retrieve them?
Were you out of the country when all that happened?

[Strange Brew]

Elon Musk has a net worth of around 400 billion and his companies pay no federal income tax? Seems like money that could be used to pay down this countries debt.

Assets vs. income.

Are you saying the Gov’t should seize the assets of select people for the “common good”?

[bjf123]

Assets vs. income.

Are you saying the Gov’t should seize the assets of select people for the “common good”?

I remember an article a number of years ago by an economist at either George Mason or George Washington University who ran the numbers on wealth tax. I don’t remember the exact figures, but it was something like if the government took the wealth of all the billionaires and taxed all income over $500,000 at 100%, it only funded the government for less than 6 months. We have a spending problem, not a revenue problem.

[bobbiemcgee]

CFPB cost 800 million returms
21 billion

[Strange Brew]

I remember an article a number of years ago by an economist at either George Mason or George Washington University who ran the numbers on wealth tax. I don’t remember the exact figures, but it was something like if the government took the wealth of all the billionaires and taxed all income over $500,000 at 100%, it only funded the government for less than 6 months. We have a spending problem, not a revenue problem.

No Diggity, No Doubt.

[Strange Brew]

CFPB cost 800 million returms
21 billion

Um, what does this mean?

I know what the CFPB is however could you add more info around the numbers?

[xuphan]

Assets vs. income.

Are you saying the Gov’t should seize the assets of select people for the “common good”?

Am I saying the Gov’t should seize the assets of select peoplefor the “common good”?

The select people “billionaires” should be paying their fair share of federal taxes including their businesses. I’d like to think it would go towards the common good but highly doubt it with how our government functions.

[xuphan]

I remember an article a number of years ago by an economist at either George Mason or George Washington University who ran the numbers on wealth tax. I don’t remember the exact figures, but it was something like if the government took the wealth of all the billionaires and taxed all income over $500,000 at 100%, it only funded the government for less than 6 months. We have a spending problem, not a revenue problem.

We have a spending problem and a revenue problem.

[XU_Lou]

We have a spending problem and a revenue problem.

No, we don't. Categorically, we have a spending problem (period).

See chart 5: https://yardeni.com/charts/us-federal-outlays-receipts/

[XU_Lou]

We have a spending problem and a revenue problem.

It's the spending...

Marco Rubio:

People who worked their entire lives - they retire and get $800 or $900 or $1,000 dollars in Social Security. THEN SOMEONE WHO JUST GOT HERE - DOESN'T WORK AND IS GIVEN $1,500 DOLLARS A MONTH IN BENEFITS BY OUR GOVERNMENT!

https://x.com/5dme81/status/1888408833669865597

[Strange Brew]

Am I saying the Gov’t should seize the assets of select peoplefor the “common good”?

The select people “billionaires” should be paying their fair share of federal taxes including their businesses. I’d like to think it would go towards the common good but highly doubt it with how our government functions.

They are according to the law.

“Fair share” is an arbitrary term/slogan. It’s meaningless and lacks logic.

[xuphan]

They are according to the law.

“Fair share” is an arbitrary term/slogan. It’s meaningless and lacks logic.

You are right. There should be a percentage number that everyone pays on their income with no loopholes to exploit.

[xuphan]

It's the spending...

Marco Rubio:

People who worked their entire lives - they retire and get $800 or $900 or $1,000 dollars in Social Security. THEN SOMEONE WHO JUST GOT HERE - DOESN'T WORK AND IS GIVEN $1,500 DOLLARS A MONTH IN BENEFITS BY OUR GOVERNMENT!

https://x.com/5dme81/status/1888408833669865597

It’s both….

The bottom game the system isn’t new and sadly has become a life style for some. Collecting the government check in the mail is an occupation for some. My favorite two stories is one lady who quit her job because she made to much for low income housing and the other is a dad who would only do scheduled meetings with his son if he received a gas card and check for doing so at JFS. The kicker is he never did see his son as he left right away after getting his handouts. Then you have the people who can’t afford one child but decide to have 2-3 more children.

Then you have the ultra elite who hold stupid amount of wealth. Why do these rich people need the government to fund projects that they themselves have the wealth to do themselves? I believe the Cleveland Browns and Cincinnati Bengals are both want to either renovate or build new stadiums. Both are owned by Billionaires yet need the tax payers to fund their projects though they have the funds to do it themselves. Seems like a waste of government money if you ask me.

I’d say they both exploit the government at the expense of the tax payer.

[GoMuskies]

You are right. There should be a percentage number that everyone pays on their income with no loopholes to exploit.

The "loopholes" are generally in how you determine income amount.

[GoMuskies]

It’s both….

The bottom game the system isn’t new and sadly has become a life style for some. Collecting the government check in the mail is an occupation for some. My favorite two stories is one lady who quit her job because she made to much for low income housing and the other is a dad who would only do scheduled meetings with his son if he received a gas card and check for doing so at JFS. The kicker is he never did see his son as he left right away after getting his handouts. Then you have the people who can’t afford one child but decide to have 2-3 more children.

Then you have the ultra elite who hold stupid amount of wealth. Why do these rich people need the government to fund projects that they themselves have the wealth to do themselves? I believe the Cleveland Browns and Cincinnati Bengals are both want to either renovate or build new stadiums. Both are owned by Billionaires yet need the tax payers to fund their projects though they have the funds to do it themselves. Seems like a waste of government money if you ask me.

I’d say they both exploit the government at the expense of the tax payer.

Aren't those both examples of spending problems?

[paulxu]

A calm, and reasoned approach to what is occurring in politics today.

https://www.cnn.com/2025/02/09/politics/video/gps0209-trumps-white-house-is-like-a-royal-court

[Strange Brew]

A calm, and reasoned approach to what is occurring in politics today.

https://www.cnn.com/2025/02/09/politics/video/gps0209-trumps-white-house-is-like-a-royal-court

Fareed? He’s still at CNN?

[xuwillie]

https://www.fox8tv.com/4-fema-employees-fired-for-paying-for-hotels-for-migrants-in-new-york-city/

And this is why we need musk. These people are so corrupt they’ll continue to try and make payments that aren’t approved.

[paulxu]

Will you guys ever figure out who the real suckers and losers are? Hope you got you donations back.

https://www.cnn.com/2025/02/11/politics/steve-bannon-border-wall-guilty/index.html

[Smails]

Will you guys ever figure out who the real suckers and losers are? Hope you got you donations back.

https://www.cnn.com/2025/02/11/politics/steve-bannon-border-wall-guilty/index.html

Who are the "you guys" that you are referring to? Has anyone on this board actually donated to the fund Bannon was a part of? Is there an audience here that you're actually addressing or are you just screaming at the wall again?

I'm not really sure what you're trying to accomplish by posting this link.

[hoopster68]

Will you guys ever figure out who the real suckers and losers are? Hope you got you donations back.

https://www.cnn.com/2025/02/11/politics/steve-bannon-border-wall-guilty/index.html

The Four Horsemen of Corruption: Trump, Bannon, Manafort & Stone. Galloping grifters getting all they can from Americans. So sad!

[xuwillie]

You can illegally spend 59m and the worst they can do is fire you?! Sign me up for that job

[bjf123]

https://www.fox8tv.com/4-fema-employees-fired-for-paying-for-hotels-for-migrants-in-new-york-city/

And this is why we need musk. These people are so corrupt they’ll continue to try and make payments that aren’t approved.

Anyone want to bet they file suit and get their jobs back?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[XU_Lou]

Senator Kennedy on the Social Security administration:

The social Security administration has 6.5 million people that are listed as saying they are 112 years old or older, that are receiving benefits!

Supposedly, there are only 35 Americans that are 112+ right now.

https://x.com/gracieback2/status/1887545103713292698


Can Paul explain why he and his fellow travelers are fighting to correct this?

[Xville]

Here's the problem I have. I have no doubt there is a spending problem in washington. It doesn't take a rocket scientist, but going in and putting 13k workers on administrative leave at USAID and completely dismantling it is irresponsible and reckless. It's not necessary, and there is no way that Musk and his cronies, did their due dilligence to fully understand what was going on there.

[xuwillie]

Here's the problem I have. I have no doubt there is a spending problem in washington. It doesn't take a rocket scientist, but going in and putting 13k workers on administrative leave at USAID and completely dismantling it is irresponsible and reckless. It's not necessary, and there is no way that Musk and his cronies, did their due dilligence to fully understand what was going on there.

I agree with some of this but def not when it comes to usaid and fema. Just do a little research and you'll find about 90% of this crap is wasteful spending. So it seems Musk has done plenty of due diligence to start with these two departments

[GoMuskies]

Go fast, break things and then go back and fix what should be fixed. Probably not a bad way to run a company (if yoir people can handle the chaos). Probably not a great way to run a government.

I want to see how this all shakes out, though. There are some third rail issues in government that we've all (not literally all, but a lot) agreed needed to "change" (spending, illegal immigration, food supply, fentanyl, Middle East, extreme "wokeness", etc), and term-limited Donald Trump with a Republican Congress, conservative Supreme Court, and a decisive election victory in hand has come in swinging a fucking sledgehammer on all those issues and more. Some of it is good, and some of its a huge fucking mess, but a shake up was certainly in order. Let's see where things land when they shaking stops.

[Xville]

I agree with some of this but def not when it comes to usaid and fema. Just do a little research and you'll find about 90% of this crap is wasteful spending. So it seems Musk has done plenty of due diligence to start with these two departments

I don't think any of us are really privy to the spending at usaid and fema. And i doubt anyone has gone line item by line item to figure out what is waste and what isn't. I highly highly doubt Musk has done due dilligence on those two departments. In what a couple of weeks' time? I doubt it.

As stated, I have no problem going in and doing audited work in these agencies, but my concern with Musk is the current way in which he is doing things, which was my concern with him in the first place.

[hoopster68]

I agree with some of this but def not when it comes to usaid and fema. Just do a little research and you'll find about 90% of this crap is wasteful spending. So it seems Musk has done plenty of due diligence to start with these two departments

Please offer citations that "about 90% of this crap is wasteful spending." Was it wasteful to those folks in FL and SC during the recent hurricane season? Was it wasteful for the folks in MS and TN struck by tornadoes? "Talking points" may score points on FAXX NEWS, but I'd like to see your sources.

[xuphan]

Please offer citations that "about 90% of this crap is wasteful spending." Was it wasteful to those folks in FL and SC during the recent hurricane season? Was it wasteful for the folks in MS and TN struck by tornadoes? "Talking points" may score points on FAXX NEWS, but I'd like to see your sources.

I am curious what people think about Trump wanting Canada to be the “51st” state? Do you think this will actually happen and how would you feel about the United States expansion? This would give us a seat at the artic table and bring a lot of resources in the hands of America. Not sure how Canadian would feel about it but it would be a potential big get for the United States.

[GoMuskies]

Are we acquiring Gaza, Panama and Greenland just so we can trade them for Canada? Sort of a sign and trade type deal?

Seems like a bit of an overpay to me.

[hoopster68]

I am curious what people think about Trump wanting Canada to be the “51st” state? Do you think this will actually happen and how would you feel about the United States expansion? This would give us a seat at the artic table and bring a lot of resources in the hands of America. Not sure how Canadian would feel about it but it would be a potential big get for the United States.

Imperialism by any other name is still imperialism. How can any sane American support the proposal to take over Canada, Greenland, + "remove" 2M Palestinians from Gaza/West Bank? As a country have we lost our collective minds? "America First" is rapidly becoming "America Worst."

[waggy]

Supposedly there have been talks with Alberta. Who knows if that is true, but one video I watched, the comment section was filled with Albertans who support the move.

[GoMuskies]

Alberta is where the oil is (thus, Edmonton Oilers). Would probably be okay with Manitoba, too. You probably have some hippies in Winnipeg, but otherwise it's probably just North North Dakota.

[XU_Lou]

Supposedly there have been talks with Alberta. Who knows if that is true, but one video I watched, the comment section was filled with Albertans who support the move.

I kind of suspected this might be the true end game. Perhaps everything west of Ontario is the goal???

[XU_Lou]

Just curious, how did EX-USAID Chief Samantha Power accumulate a net worth of $30 million?

[xuphan]

Imperialism by any other name is still imperialism. How can any sane American support the proposal to take over Canada, Greenland, + "remove" 2M Palestinians from Gaza/West Bank? As a country have we lost our collective minds? "America First" is rapidly becoming "America Worst."

Ya, I don’t understand the whole Gaza takeover/rebuild talk. Maybe Trump should be looking at taking over the Maldives instead.

[bobbiemcgee]

Just curious, how did EX-USAID Chief Samantha Power accumulate a net worth of $30 million?

Meanwhile, 500 lbs in food rots. On the docks.

[xubrew]

Strictly hypothetical question of Constitutional Procedure...

If a judge/court makes a ruling, and members of the Executive Branch just ignore it, then what??

[ArizonaXUGrad]

With inflation up mainly because of tariffs, can we blame inflation on Trump now?

Stop, yes I voted for the guy but not for these stupid tariffs.

[Xville]

With inflation up mainly because of tariffs, can we blame inflation on Trump now?

Stop, yes I voted for the guy but not for these stupid tariffs.

oh didn't you hear? Inflation is good now. This is the political messaging these two parties just love to manipulate...you can tell whatever story you want and one extreme of the aisle will just eat it up while the other side goes insane at every move.

Then there are those of us with rational sense, that realizes most of what politicians do is just continue to eff us in every way possible while doing whatever they can to benefit themselves.

[GoMuskies]

Wait, inflation is up mainly because of some tariffs that were put in place yesterday?

[Strange Brew]

Wait, inflation is up mainly because of some tariffs that were put in place yesterday?

Right.

[paulxu]

One of you guys in the MAGA group want to tell the Fox News Host masquerading as our Secretary of Defense, that it's a violation of 4 U.S. Code § 8 - Respect for flag, to wear a pocket square made out of a flag?

Thanks

[GoMuskies]

Are you trying to shut down the veteran owned business that makes them? That's mean.

[Xville]

One of you guys in the MAGA group want to tell the Fox News Host masquerading as our Secretary of Defense, that it's a violation of 4 U.S. Code § 8 - Respect for flag, to wear a pocket square made out of a flag?

Thanks

1.) Did you know this before someone told you?
2.) Does it really matter?

[GoMuskies]

In non-flag code news, I see that Trump is going to Russia and Putin is coming to D.C.

[waggy]

If a judge/court makes a ruling, and members of the Executive Branch just ignore it, then what??

The left wails about fascism. So nothing new. The judge needs to be removed.

[murray87]

Paul, are you auditioning to be the token male member of 'The View'?

[paulxu]

Wouldn't you think that this big, decorated, veteran and former Fox News host would have someone tell him about flag etiquette?

If the head of the entire Defense Department, the nation's largest department, and millions of men and women in uniform can't show the proper respect for the flag, who will?

So typical of the chest thumping MAGA crowd. And, if you have that job as Secretary of Defense, it makes a difference.

(my suspicion is most of you never wore the uniform)

[Xville]

Wouldn't you think that this big, decorated, veteran and former Fox News host would have someone tell him about flag etiquette?

If the head of the entire Defense Department, the nation's largest department, and millions of men and women in uniform can't show the proper respect for the flag, who will?

So typical of the chest thumping MAGA crowd. And, if you have that job as Secretary of Defense, it makes a difference.

There are bigger things in the world to be mad about. You're just looking for anything to complain about.

[GoMuskies]

(my suspicion is most of you never wore the uniform)

Perhaps, but the folks who own the company that makes the pocket squares did.

[xubrew]

The left wails about fascism. So nothing new. The judge needs to be removed.


It's a procedural question that I don't know the answer to. I'm not wailing about anything. But, while I don't know what happens, I'm pretty sure what you said is not it.

[waggy]

It's a procedural question that I don't know the answer to. I'm not wailing about anything. But, while I don't know what happens, I'm pretty sure what you said is not it.

Uh, they appeal. Duh.

[xubrew]

Uh, they appeal. Duh.

Not the question...


Strictly hypothetical question of Constitutional Procedure...

If a judge/court makes a ruling, and members of the Executive Branch just ignore it, then what??

Appealing the decision is not ignoring it. An appeal would be the proper channel. Now say they do NOT go through the proper channels and ignore the ruling. Then what?? If somene goes full blown Andrew Jackson and says "Chief Justice John Marshall has made his decision, now let him enforce it," then who enforces it??

[waggy]

You didn't ask a procedural question, you posed a hypothetical. I answered it accurately.

[xubrew]

You didn't ask a procedural question, you posed a hypothetical. I answered it accurately.

The question was hypothetical, the answer would not be. I would think it would be very specific. What is the constitutional procedure if the Executive Branch ignores a court ruling? They can be one and the same. In that hypothetical situaiton, what is the procedure that is triggered?

[waggy]

The question was hypothetical, the answer would not be. I would think it would be very specific. What is the constitutional procedure if the Executive Branch ignores a court ruling? They can be one and the same. In that hypothetical situaiton, what is the procedure that is triggered?

Triggered is the correct word.. Fascism!

[xubrew]

Triggered is the correct word.. Fascism!

Okay, so you don't know. Got it. That makes at least two of us.

In 1832 no one seemed to do anything. I've been stewing about it ever since!!!!

And for you history buffs, I know that Andrew Jackson probably didn't actually say that, but he did still completely ignore the ruling. And as far as I can tell nothing happened. So...maybe that's the answer. If they decide to ignore it then there is no way to enforce it.

[hoopster68]

Okay, so you don't know. Got it. That makes at least two of us.

In 1832 no one seemed to do anything. I've been stewing about it ever since!!!!

And for you history buffs, I know that Andrew Jackson probably didn't actually say that, but he did still completely ignore the ruling. And as far as I can tell nothing happened. So...maybe that's the answer. If they decide to ignore it then there is no way to enforce it.

2025 isn't 1832. Chief Justice Roberts, a traditionalist, signaled last week that court decisions are meant to be followed. If the Trumpster failed to obey a direct order involving a Supreme Court decision I believe this would initiate a constitutional crisis not seen since April, 1861. Roberts would immediately use his bully pulpit, accompanied by many (but likely not all) of the SC justices. His message would be heard across the land; I don't think the President would want a national debate on the issue and would eventually back down. Knowing the Trumpster he would then declare he won the argument!

[xubrew]

2025 isn't 1832. Chief Justice Roberts, a traditionalist, signaled last week that court decisions are meant to be followed. If the Trumpster failed to obey a direct order involving a Supreme Court decision I believe this would initiate a constitutional crisis not seen since April, 1861. Roberts would immediately use his bully pulpit, accompanied by many (but likely not all) of the SC justices. His message would be heard across the land; I don't think the President would want a national debate on the issue and would eventually back down. Knowing the Trumpster he would then declare he won the argument!

Thanks, but this is your own supposition of how specifically Trump and Roberts would respond and not an answer to the question. I'll phrase it a different way...

If the Executive Branch ignores a court ruling, is there an actual procedure in place to enforce that ruling? If so, then what is it?

[paulxu]

If the head of the Executive branch did that, there is impeachment as a remedy.

[noteggs]

Like Trump said he will have to follow the law (yes the irony is not lost on me). A better action would be for Trump to find a different way to get his EO thru. Kinda like when Biden did with his student loan forgiveness after Supreme Court shot him down.

[Strange Brew]

Perhaps, but the folks who own the company that makes the pocket squares did.

And so did Pete. Not sure what point Paul is trying to make.

Unless he’s upset Pete isn’t burning it like his Democracy friends like to do. :)

[Xville]

Ya know what might be nice....some transparency and some evidence of actual waste and fraud beyond Musk and Trump just saying it. That'd be swell. I don't think that's really a lot to ask. I have little doubt there is waste and fraud going on, but maybe show the American people? Saying it is one thing, being transparent with evidence is another.

[GoMuskies]

It's like day 25. Maybe Trump and Musk should shut up about it a bit (they definitely should), but I think it's a bit early to be demanding all the receipts.

[Xville]

It's like day 25. Maybe Trump and Musk should shut up about it a bit (they definitely should), but I think it's a bit early to be demanding all the receipts.

When you shut down an entire agency in less than two weeks time, and lay off 13k people, I think it's fair to demand receipts in that same time period.

[XU_Lou]

Winning

[ArizonaXUGrad]

Ya know what might be nice....some transparency and some evidence of actual waste and fraud beyond Musk and Trump just saying it. That'd be swell. I don't think that's really a lot to ask. I have little doubt there is waste and fraud going on, but maybe show the American people? Saying it is one thing, being transparent with evidence is another.

There was a time I was a big 5 at the time auditor by trade. I agree with this. I even audited tribes and government entities. It's not hard to put together a plan, work paper support, and an opinion. Two weeks is enough time. I have done this at a tribal level where the quality of work isn't the highest.

[GoMuskies]

Gabbard in yesterday. Kennedy in today. That should guarantee that Trump goes undefeated with his Cabinet picks (if you don't count the weird nomination and withdrawal of Gaetz).

[waggy]

I'd say 36 trillion in debt is all the receipt needed.

[Xville]

I'd say 36 trillion in debt is all the receipt needed.

Well, they are asking for 4 more, so that's good.

[waggy]

Well, they are asking for 4 more, so that's good.

Do you have a link?

[Xville]

Do you have a link?

takes two seconds

https://coloradonewsline.com/2025/02/12/repub/u-s-house-gop-releases-budget-that-raises-debt-limit-by-4-trillion-extends-tax-cuts/

As I've said from the get go...this is all smoke and mirrors that suddenly the government is going to just stop spending money. They are just going to reallocate it to the things they want and spend more.

[waggy]

I don't think it's smoke and mirrors. The debt limit and deficit are separate things.

[Xville]

I don't think it's smoke and mirrors. The debt limit and deficit are separate things.

While that's true, it creates more opportunity for political mischief and financial trouble.

[waggy]

I'm afraid we are beyond truly fixing our financial situation short of getting into healthcare and social security, because otherwise it would take bipartisan support to do so. This where the blame game gets run out, and it's why the dems were saying Trump wanted to cut into these programs. Some said he would have to, some said he wanted to.

[paulxu]

Do you have a link?

https://www.newsweek.com/republicans-reveal-trump-tax-plan-will-cost-us-45-trillion-2030024

[paulxu]

I'm afraid we are beyond truly fixing our financial situation short of getting into healthcare and social security, because otherwise it would take bipartisan support to do so. This where the blame game gets run out, and it's why the dems were saying Trump wanted to cut into these programs. Some said he would have to, some said he wanted to.

Lets say you cut some of those programs to help reduce the debt going forward.
Why add to the debt going forward with a $4.5 trillion dollar tax cut?

[waggy]

Lets say you cut some of those programs to help reduce the debt going forward.
Why add to the debt going forward with a $4.5 trillion dollar tax cut?

This is stuff is maybe too complicated for me, but I think the answer is cash flow.

https://bipartisanpolicy.org/blog/debt-limit-2025-what-to-know/

[Strange Brew]

Lets say you cut some of those programs to help reduce the debt going forward.
Why add to the debt going forward with a $4.5 trillion dollar tax cut?

Because we've already been "hidden taxed" enough with Bidenflation. That was/is, in fact, not transitory. It never was or is if you understand how inflation works.

[XU_Lou]

EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin announces that $20 billion in taxpayer funds were just discovered, laundered into in external financial institutions managed by agents of the Biden Admin to finance left wing NGOs.

“$7 billion was sent to an entity called the Climate United Fund.”

But Zeldin has now clawed back the money and referred the case to the Department of Justice. Boom.

https://x.com/bennyjohnson/status/1889850987520696554

[XU_Lou]

This is stuff is maybe too complicated for me, but I think the answer is cash flow.

https://bipartisanpolicy.org/blog/debt-limit-2025-what-to-know/

100%, it's cash flow.

The U.S. national debt has increased by about $1 trillion every 100 days, according to CNBC.

It's going to take time to tame the monster.

[waggy]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YI1jsHpgRc4

[waggy]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-4LOoxK4j4A

[waggy]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wj7Vw1iZyec

[GoMuskies]

Trump will be President for another 1,436 days. Given the pace and chaos of days 1-25, that's kind of crazy to think about.

[Xville]

This is stuff is maybe too complicated for me, but I think the answer is cash flow.

https://bipartisanpolicy.org/blog/debt-limit-2025-what-to-know/

When you include 4.5 trillion in tax cuts, that further complicates a cash flow problem if that’s the problem.

[Strange Brew]

When you include 4.5 trillion in tax cuts, that further complicates a cash flow problem if that’s the problem.

Are they new tax cuts or just extending the current rates?

Edit: Your article doesn’t talk about the 4.5T number.

[Xville]

https://www.usnews.com/news/politics/articles/2025-02-12/house-republicans-unveil-blueprint-to-extend-4-5-trillion-in-tax-cuts-and-lift-the-debt-ceiling

4.5 trillion in tax cuts, but they want to cut spending by 2 trillion in ten years. I wasn’t a math major but….

[Strange Brew]

https://www.usnews.com/news/politics/articles/2025-02-12/house-republicans-unveil-blueprint-to-extend-4-5-trillion-in-tax-cuts-and-lift-the-debt-ceiling

4.5 trillion in tax cuts, but they want to cut spending by 2 trillion in ten years. I wasn’t a math major but….

So, yes. Extend the current tax rates. Tax increases are going to be a hard sell with all of the rediculous waste that has and will be uncovered.

[xuphan]

https://www.usnews.com/news/politics/articles/2025-02-12/house-republicans-unveil-blueprint-to-extend-4-5-trillion-in-tax-cuts-and-lift-the-debt-ceiling

4.5 trillion in tax cuts, but they want to cut spending by 2 trillion in ten years. I wasn’t a math major but….

We have heard about wanting to cut spending but what about the debt that’s already there? Shouldn’t our political leaders on both sides work together to start funneling tax money into paying off the debt? Reducing the amount that we are borrowing isn’t paying off the debt that’s already there.

[GoMuskies]

I don't know that reducing the absolute amount of the debt matters. I think we just want to keep it to a lower percentage of GDP.

It's hard to get one's head around how the federal government operates and those huge numbers.