Hyper partisanship: a Downward Spiral

By Justin A. Chick

Since the advent of the United States and its application by our founding fathers, the party system of Democracy was designed to protect and represent our nation’s populace.

Unlike the Monarchy of 18th century Great Britain, the governing body of the United States was created to function in regard to the diverse ideologies prevalent throughout the colonies.  The intention was to govern via civilized debates, with each party or platform presenting their respective points of view, and then agreeing on a suitable compromise of principles to eventually implement into law.

Today, this democratic style of politics has been abused and manipulated beyond recognition.  What used to serve as an efficient source of policy making has now become an engine of personal interest, driving a wedge between Democrats and Republicans.  Congress, who has been gridlocked by political incompetence for nearly 2 years, has a current approval rating of around 15%.  This means about 85% of Americans don’t feel the government has provided reasonable solutions to problems it was designed to solve.

One of the major reasons for our country’s political inadequacies is due to a substantial lack of accountability among lawmakers.  The result is petty name-calling and finger pointing.  During the first year and a half of President Obama’s term, there was a tendency within his administration to blame the declining economy on his predecessor George W. Bush.  However true the claims may have been, they accomplished nothing politically and most likely had a negative effect on his ambitions by antagonizing Republicans before solutions were agreed upon.

Then, in 2011, the Obama Administration—Joe Biden specifically—made the remark, “Bush broke it, but we own it,” referring to the U.S. economy and attempting to take accountability for the 2 and a half years of stagnant economic growth.  It didn’t take long for conservatives to seize the opportunity to call for a public apology for previous remarks blaming Bush.

Media bias nothing new

By William R. Toler

The media bias on Rep. Ron Paul when it comes to the presidential election is not a new development. It’s been going on since the last election.

During the 2008 election I watched as Paul was constantly ignored and the networks failed to even mention he was a candidate…much like they’re doing now. I even recorded a video blog to address my concern.

Working for a local television station, I sometimes scan through scripts just to see if he gets a shout out. Usually, I’m disappointed.

It’s not just the “liberal” television news media either. FOX News and conservative talk radio hosts are just as guilty. Personalities like Rush Limbaugh and Sean Hannity are loathe to mention Ron Paul. If they do, it’s usually a jab at his stances that don’t fit in with mainstream neo-con political thought.

What is it that draws the crowds and frightens the establishment?

Republican debate Round 1: And the winner is…

By James White

Last night was the first of many Republican debates, and it was worth mentioning for several reasons.

  Only five candidates showed for the event.  Ron Paul, Tim Pawlenty, Herman Cain, Rick Santorum, and Gary Johnson were the ones that made the trip to Greenville, South Carolina, and most of these contenders aren’t really considered to be the “heavyweights” of the Republican party.  Most notable by their absences were Mitt Romney, Newt Gingrich, and Michelle Bachman (whose performance I was especially looking forward to!).  Another aspect of the contest was that it was hosted by Fox News, which I’m sure is a surprise to everyone that they hosted the first Republican debate.  The best feature of this debate was that it gave the opportunity for candidates to be heard that would otherwise be drowned out during other debates and news cycles. 

Is independence nearing extinction?

By Nina Kilbride

I was in the first grade in 1976.  It was the national Bicentennial, and it was a big deal.  My husband, then 11, redecorated his room in red, white and blue in his enthusiasm.  I can still remember the words to a halftime song “Two Hundred Years and Just a Baby.”

From the spirit of the day, I learned that being American was about being independent in thought and deed while respecting the needs of others.  Independence is a theme that still tugs at my heartstrings.

Independence as a value has largely disappeared from the national dialogue. This is unfortunate, because many independence lovers are “values” voters.

Gun sales go up

By William R. Toler

Sales aren’t down for all items.

Firearms are starting to see a dramatic increase in purchases, according to the Associated Press. The election of a Democratic president and a congressional majority of Democrats have been said to be the cause of the upswing.

The Washigton Post reported late last month that sales of firearems and ammunition are up 8 to 10 percent this year.