US Government vs the Poor: Starving the Vulnerable Over Politics

Starving the Vulnerable: How Trump, Congress, and the Supreme Court Turned a Political Tantrum into a Hunger Crisis

In November 2025, as millions of American families scramble to put food on the table amid the longest government shutdown in U.S. history, one thing is crystal clear: the U.S. government has utterly failed its most basic duty. The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), commonly known as food stamps, which feeds over 42 million low-income Americans—including children, seniors, and people with disabilities—has been slashed, delayed, and weaponized in a petty partisan standoff. President Donald Trump, a Republican-controlled Congress, and a Supreme Court stacked with conservative justices have collectively decided that scoring political points is more important than preventing widespread hunger. This is not governance; it's cruelty disguised as fiscal responsibility.

The shutdown, now in its 40th day as of November 9, 2025, began over disagreements on extending Affordable Care Act (ACA) subsidies set to expire at year's end. Democrats insisted on including a one-year extension in any funding bill to prevent premium spikes for millions. Republicans, led by Trump and Senate Majority Leader John Thune, refused, accusing Democrats of holding the government "hostage" for "free healthcare for illegal aliens"—a blatant falsehood, as the ACA does not cover undocumented immigrants. Trump demanded a clean continuing resolution with no health policy attachments, vowing to let the shutdown drag on indefinitely to force concessions. House Speaker Mike Johnson echoed this hardline stance, rejecting bipartisan compromises and even piecemeal bills to fund essentials like SNAP.

What started as a budget dispute has devolved into a humanitarian disaster. The Trump administration initially refused to tap contingency funds for SNAP, claiming insufficient resources despite billions available. Lower courts ordered full funding, but the Supreme Court—on November 7—granted an emergency stay, temporarily blocking those orders and allowing partial or zero benefits to continue. This judicial intervention, siding with Trump's appeals, has left families in limbo, with some states clawing back already-issued full payments under threat of penalties.

This isn't about money—SNAP costs about $9 billion monthly, with $6 billion in contingency reserves explicitly for emergencies like this. It's about power. Trump has used the shutdown to pressure Democrats, even posting on social media that SNAP would resume only if they capitulated. Congress, paralyzed by tribalism, has failed to override this chaos. And the Supreme Court, by pausing mandates to fully fund anti-hunger programs, has enabled the executive's gamesmanship. The result? Millions go hungry while politicians play chicken with lives.

 The Shutdown's Origins: Petty Demands Over People's Needs

The roots of this crisis trace back to September 2025, when Congress failed to pass full-year appropriations or a continuing resolution (CR) before the fiscal year ended on September 30. Trump, fresh off his 2024 victory, pushed for deep cuts to non-defense spending and refused any deal tying funding to ACA enhancements. Democrats, controlling neither chamber but holding leverage in the Senate's 60-vote threshold, demanded protections for healthcare subsidies affecting 20 million Americans.

On October 1, the government shut down. Trump canceled negotiations, calling Democratic offers "unserious." Republicans falsely framed the impasse as Democrats demanding "gender mutilation procedures" or aid for immigrants. In reality, it was about preventing healthcare costs from skyrocketing. Thune attempted 14 votes on a clean CR through November 21; Democrats blocked each, offering compromises like a one-year ACA extension plus a bipartisan committee for long-term reforms. Republicans rejected all, with Trump vowing no talks until Democrats folded.

By late October, the shutdown's pain escalated. The USDA announced SNAP benefits would lapse on November 1—the first time in the program's 60-year history. Contingency funds existed, but Trump officials claimed they couldn't be used fully without congressional approval, a dubious interpretation ignored in past shutdowns.

This wasn't inevitable. Past administrations, including Trump's first term, used workarounds to keep SNAP flowing. Here, Trump weaponized it, suggesting benefits would resume only post-concession. Congress dithered, with Johnson refusing to recall the House for targeted fixes. The Supreme Court later enabled this by staying lower court orders mandating full payments.

 Devastating Effects: From Empty Pantries to National Chaos

The impacts are catastrophic and far-reaching. SNAP serves 42 million people—39% children, many elderly or disabled. Average benefits: $187 per person monthly. Without them, families skip meals, substitute junk food, or turn to emergency pantries already overwhelmed.

Initially, no November benefits issued. States warned of delays; some like Delaware and New York scrambled state funds or emergencies. Trump admin flipped: 50% payments, then 65%, then full under court order—only for Supreme Court to block it on November 7. Some states issued full benefits; USDA demanded they "undo" them, threatening penalties. Chaos ensued: EBT cards failed, transactions rejected.

Furloughs hit hard: 1.4 million federal workers unpaid, many essential like air traffic controllers working without pay. FAA slashed flights 10% at 40 airports; over 2,500 cancellations by November 9. National parks closed or unstaffed; trash piled up.

Other services cratered: SSI court cases paused, delaying disability benefits. Head Start for 58,600 kids risked closure. LIHEAP energy assistance delayed. WIC partially affected. Housing vouchers continued short-term, but new applications halted; evictions loomed.

Military families hit food pantries in droves—300% increases some places. Unpaid workers piled bills; morale plummeted. Economic ripple: Reduced spending, strained food banks, potential recession signals.

Trump's role? Callous. He paid troops early but let civilians suffer, threatening no backpay. Congress? Spineless—Republicans blocked standalone SNAP bills; Democrats' compromises ignored. Supreme Court? Complicit, prioritizing "separation of powers" over starving kids by staying funding mandates.

This affects real people: A Pittsburgh widow rationing for her disabled nephew. Texas families choosing rent over food. Children going hungry pre-Thanksgiving.

 Why This is Unforgivable: Basic Needs Aren't Bargaining Chips

SNAP isn't welfare—it's survival. It lifts millions from poverty, boosts economy ($1.50 per $1 spent). Cutting it over ACA subsidies? Absurd. Issues like border walls or tax cuts pale next to feeding children.

Trump's tactics: Using hunger as leverage, echoing his first-term shutdowns but worse. Congress: Failed oversight, letting one man hold nation hostage. Supreme Court: By blocking full funding, they greenlit suffering, arguing irreparable harm to budget over kids' empty stomachs.

Polls show Americans blame Republicans more. Yet no accountability.

 Solutions: Make Essentials Shutdown-Proof and Punish the Culprits

This must never happen again. First, pass a law mandating automatic funding for core safety nets—SNAP, WIC, SSI, Medicaid, housing vouchers, LIHEAP—during shutdowns. Use multi-year contingencies or mandatory spending exemptions under Antideficiency Act. No discretion for presidents to withhold.

Second, freeze politicians' salaries from day one of shutdown. No pay until resolved. Extend to staff, leadership bonuses.

Third, penalties for bad-faith prolonging: Fines per day after 14 days, docked from party funds or personal salaries if proven political (e.g., Trump’s posts). Independent commission to investigate, impose sanctions.

Fourth, end filibuster for CRs or require supermajority for shutdowns. Automatic CRs if no budget by deadline.

Fifth, backpay guarantees for workers, no threats.

These aren't radical—similar proposals floated post-2019 shutdown. Bipartisan support exists when not poisoned by partisanship.

 A Call to Action: Demand Better from Our Leaders

America is better than this. We feed the hungry, house the vulnerable, care for the sick—not dangle them as pawns. Trump, Congress, Supreme Court: Your legacy is hunger amid plenty. Voters remember.

Contact representatives. Support anti-hunger groups. Vote out enablers.

End this now. Fund the government. Protect the people.

 Sources

1. NPR: SNAP runs out of money Nov. 1 (web:0)

2. Snopes: Will SNAP benefits be issued in November 2025? (web:1)

3. Food Research & Action Center: How Will a Government Shutdown Affect SNAP Benefits? (web:2)

4. The Guardian: US supreme court issues emergency order blocking full Snap food aid payments (web:3)

5. NPR: Supreme Court temporarily blocks full SNAP benefits (web:4)

6. NPR: Trump administration will fund SNAP at 50% (web:5)

7. CNN: Food stamps: Understanding what’s happening with SNAP benefits (web:6)

8. Wikipedia: 2025 United States federal government shutdown (web:40, web:70)

9. NPR: The federal government is still shut down (web:42)

10. The New York Times: Government Shutdown Imperils SNAP (web:55)

11. Various court filings and USDA memos referenced in NPR, NYT, Guardian articles (web:20-39)

State of the Union 2024

The State of the Union Address: What Biden Said and How He Was Criticized

On Thursday, March 7, 2024, President Joe Biden delivered his second State of the Union address to a joint session of Congress. The speech was a high-stakes moment for Biden, who is facing a tough reelection campaign against former President Donald Trump, who has not conceded his 2020 loss and has repeatedly attacked Biden's legitimacy and performance.

In his address, Biden focused on his economic agenda, touting his achievements in creating jobs, raising wages, expanding health care coverage, and combating climate change. He also called for higher taxes on corporations and the wealthy, saying they should pay their "fair share" to fund his proposed investments in infrastructure, education, research, and clean energy. He said his plans would make the U.S. more competitive and resilient in the face of global challenges and threats.

Biden also slammed Trump multiple times, blaming him for the January 6, 2021 insurrection at the Capitol, the mishandling of the COVID-19 pandemic, the erosion of democracy, and the damage to America's reputation abroad. He said Trump was "a threat to our nation and our values" and urged Americans to reject his "big lie" that the 2020 election was stolen. He said he was determined to defend and strengthen democracy at home and abroad.  Biden attacked Republicans on their push to end abortion claiming that if they take away a woman's right then what other rights will they take. 

Biden's speech was met with applause and cheers from Democrats, who praised his vision and leadership. However, Republicans were largely critical of his address, accusing him of being divisive, radical, and out of touch with reality. They said he was pursuing a socialist agenda that would hurt the economy, increase the debt, raise taxes, kill jobs, and weaken national security. They also challenged his claims of bipartisanship, saying he had ignored their input and proposals on various issues. Some of the booed the president and heckled him. 

The Republican response to Biden's address was delivered by Sen. Katie Britt of Alabama, who is one of the youngest and most prominent members of her party. Britt said Biden had failed to deliver on his promises of unity and healing, and had instead governed with "arrogance and condescension." She said Republicans had a better vision for America, one that respected individual freedom, limited government, free markets, strong families, and constitutional rights. She said Republicans would fight for policies that would create opportunity, prosperity, security, and peace for all Americans.

Biden's State of the Union address was watched by an estimated 40 million viewers across various platforms , slightly lower than his first address in 2021 . The speech received mixed reviews from pundits and analysts , with some praising his optimism and confidence , and others criticizing his lack of specifics and realism . The speech also sparked reactions from various groups and stakeholders , such as labor unions , business groups , environmentalists , civil rights activists , foreign leaders , and celebrities.  Disgraced former congressman George Santos was present and claimed he will run again for the seat of Rep. Nick LaLota in New York’s First Congressional District, which covers most of Suffolk County on eastern Long Island.

What do you think? Post your comment below on Disqus. Be sure to remember to follow the rules so your comment can be allowed.

References:

: https://www.nielsen.com/us/en/press-releases/2024/03/nielsen-estimates-40-million-people-watched-bidens-state-of-the-union-address/

: https://www.nielsen.com/us/en/press-releases/2021/04/nielsen-estimates-43-million-people-watched-bidens-first-address-to-congress/

: https://www.nytimes.com/2024/03/08/us/politics/state-of-the-union-analysis.html

: https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/2024/03/07/biden-state-of-the-union-speech-was-a-master-class-in-delivering-progressive-agenda-with-broad-appeal/

: https://www.wsj.com/articles/bidens-state-of-the-union-speech-was-a-fantasyland-of-false-promises-and-distortions-11615212123

: https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/politics/2024/03/08/state-of-the-union-reactions-biden-speech-sparks-praise-criticism/6898765/

: https://www.aflcio.org/press/releases/afl-cio-president-richard-trumka-reacts-president-bidens-state-union-address

: https://www.uschamber.com/press-release/us-chamber-president-suzanne-clark-statement-president-bidens-state-of-the-union-address

: https://www.sierraclub.org/press-releases/2024/03/sierra-club-response-president-biden-s-state-union-address

: https://www.naacp.org/latest/naacp-statement-on-president-bidens-state-of-the-union-address/

: https://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-56345678

: https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/hollywood-reacts-to-president-joe-bidens-state-of-the-union-address

https://nypost.com/2024/03/07/us-news/expelled-rep-george-santos-attends-bidens-state-of-union/

Trump's Joint Address at Congress

President Donald J. Trump has just finished giving his first speech to a joint session of Congress which is mostly controlled by his party the Republicans. The speech was surprisingly very good and presented President Trump as presidential and open to unity and cooperation. Many political pundits on CNN and other media outlets expected Trump to be brash and aloof. However, he disappointed them. Trump was calm and never got into a "back and forth" with the audience as in the case with news conferences and other events. Democrats booed him at times and made disruptive noises, but Trump kept calm and continued on with his speech. Trump's speech was long-winded, but did not top Clinton who gave the longest speech in post-modern history.

The president began by acknowledging the recent threats and attacks against Jewish people in the United States. He condemned the acts and moved on towards his actions at the onset of his presidency. The rest of the speech touched upon his vision of America, the construction of the wall in the southern border, and a call to united and cooperation which was directed at the Democrats. Trump mentioned God several times and even cited the Bible when referencing Ryan Owens, a Navy seal killed in Yemen. His widow was present and received a long standing ovation. She cried and looked upwards in a gesture of communication to her loved one in heaven. During the joint session, women dressed in white were visible. These were Democrats who dressed in white in acknowledgment of the Women's Suffrage movement. The clothing was meant to be an affront to what they perceive as Trump's "anti-women" policies, namely, his pro-life views. Interestingly enough, these women did not applaud not stand when Trump mentioned his executive order which would help women in the workforce. It seems that these women only see abortion as a woman's issue and ignore everything else pertaining to women. Trump reiterated his call to following immigration laws and stated that the "bad ones" are being removed as he spoke. He called out those who are against his call to law and order by asking them what they would say to American families who suffer due to illegal immigrants taking away what is entitled to them as citizens. The president also had an African American student who failed the third grade and had to repeat it. She was helped by being given the opportunity to go to a better school and is now going towards her master's degree. He advocated for choice in regards to education.

Trump also stated that he is there to represent America and not the globe and made jabs against Obama who compromised a lot in his dealings with other nations. President Trump vowed to make America first and focus his work on Americans rather than others. He presented his plan to fix America's broken infrastructure and mentioned the success the Stock Market has been having since his election. Trump stated that he wants to keep businesses in America and will bring about fair trading. He criticized the previous administration for increasing the national debt and wasting money due to poor negotiations. The president called on Congress to repeal and replace Obamacare and gave his case against the health care disaster. Overall, the speech was great and made the president look very presidential.

Lawmakers react to Pres. Trump's first joint address to Congress: https://t.co/aMqmWr9B1K pic.twitter.com/F8ef6Nlrpv

— ABC News (@ABC) March 1, 2017

We are one people, with one destiny.

We all bleed the same blood.

We all salute the same flag.

And we are all made by the same God.

— President Trump (@POTUS) March 1, 2017

Emotional moment as crowd gives standing ovation to widow of Navy SEAL during #JointAddress https://t.co/bZtqYImWd5 https://t.co/LtzfZkrhz9

— CNN (@CNN) March 1, 2017

Pres. Trump praises Navy SEAL killed during Yemen raid: "Ryan's legacy is etched into eternity." https://t.co/kGvWehnWHS #Jointsession pic.twitter.com/dPghXajsqT

— ABC News Politics (@ABCPolitics) March 1, 2017

Here is the full text of the speech:




Full speech: Trump delivers first address 01:01:04



PRESIDENT DONALD J. TRUMP'S ADDRESS TO A JOINT SESSION OF CONGRESS
Remarks as prepared for delivery

TO THE CONGRESS OF THE UNITED STATES:

Mr. Speaker, Mr. Vice President, Members of Congress, the First Lady of the United States, and Citizens of America:
Tonight, as we mark the conclusion of our celebration of Black History Month, we are reminded of our Nation's path toward civil rights and the work that still remains. Recent threats targeting Jewish Community Centers and vandalism of Jewish cemeteries, as well as last week's shooting in Kansas City, remind us that while we may be a Nation divided on policies, we are a country that stands united in condemning hate and evil in all its forms.
Each American generation passes the torch of truth, liberty and justice --- in an unbroken chain all the way down to the present.
That torch is now in our hands. And we will use it to light up the world. I am here tonight to deliver a message of unity and strength, and it is a message deeply delivered from my heart.
A new chapter of American Greatness is now beginning.
A new national pride is sweeping across our Nation.
And a new surge of optimism is placing impossible dreams firmly within our grasp.
What we are witnessing today is the Renewal of the American Spirit.
Our allies will find that America is once again ready to lead.
All the nations of the world -- friend or foe -- will find that America is strong, America is proud, and America is free.
In 9 years, the United States will celebrate the 250th anniversary of our founding -- 250 years since the day we declared our Independence.
It will be one of the great milestones in the history of the world.
But what will America look like as we reach our 250th year? What kind of country will we leave for our children?
I will not allow the mistakes of recent decades past to define the course of our future.
For too long, we've watched our middle class shrink as we've exported our jobs and wealth to foreign countries.
We've financed and built one global project after another, but ignored the fates of our children in the inner cities of Chicago, Baltimore, Detroit -- and so many other places throughout our land.
We've defended the borders of other nations, while leaving our own borders wide open, for anyone to cross -- and for drugs to pour in at a now unprecedented rate.
And we've spent trillions of dollars overseas, while our infrastructure at home has so badly crumbled.
Then, in 2016, the earth shifted beneath our feet. The rebellion started as a quiet protest, spoken by families of all colors and creeds --- families who just wanted a fair shot for their children, and a fair hearing for their concerns.
But then the quiet voices became a loud chorus -- as thousands of citizens now spoke out together, from cities small and large, all across our country.
Finally, the chorus became an earthquake -- and the people turned out by the tens of millions, and they were all united by one very simple, but crucial demand, that America must put its own citizens first ... because only then, can we truly MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN.
Dying industries will come roaring back to life. Heroic veterans will get the care they so desperately need.
Our military will be given the resources its brave warriors so richly deserve.
Crumbling infrastructure will be replaced with new roads, bridges, tunnels, airports and railways gleaming across our beautiful land.
Our terrible drug epidemic will slow down and ultimately, stop.
And our neglected inner cities will see a rebirth of hope, safety, and opportunity.
Above all else, we will keep our promises to the American people.
It's been a little over a month since my inauguration, and I want to take this moment to update the Nation on the progress I've made in keeping those promises.
Since my election, Ford, Fiat-Chrysler, General Motors, Sprint, Softbank, Lockheed, Intel, Walmart, and many others, have announced that they will invest billions of dollars in the United States and will create tens of thousands of new American jobs.
The stock market has gained almost three trillion dollars in value since the election on November 8th, a record. We've saved taxpayers hundreds of millions of dollars by bringing down the price of the fantastic new F-35 jet fighter, and will be saving billions more dollars on contracts all across our Government. We have placed a hiring freeze on non-military and non-essential Federal workers.
We have begun to drain the swamp of government corruption by imposing a 5 year ban on lobbying by executive branch officials --- and a lifetime ban on becoming lobbyists for a foreign government.
We have undertaken a historic effort to massively reduce job‑crushing regulations, creating a deregulation task force inside of every Government agency; imposing a new rule which mandates that for every 1 new regulation, 2 old regulations must be eliminated; and stopping a regulation that threatens the future and livelihoods of our great coal miners.
We have cleared the way for the construction of the Keystone and Dakota Access Pipelines -- thereby creating tens of thousands of jobs -- and I've issued a new directive that new American pipelines be made with American steel.
We have withdrawn the United States from the job-killing Trans-Pacific Partnership.
With the help of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, we have formed a Council with our neighbors in Canada to help ensure that women entrepreneurs have access to the networks, markets and capital they need to start a business and live out their financial dreams.
To protect our citizens, I have directed the Department of Justice to form a Task Force on Reducing Violent Crime.
I have further ordered the Departments of Homeland Security and Justice, along with the Department of State and the Director of National Intelligence, to coordinate an aggressive strategy to dismantle the criminal cartels that have spread across our Nation.
We will stop the drugs from pouring into our country and poisoning our youth -- and we will expand treatment for those who have become so badly addicted.
At the same time, my Administration has answered the pleas of the American people for immigration enforcement and border security. By finally enforcing our immigration laws, we will raise wages, help the unemployed, save billions of dollars, and make our communities safer for everyone. We want all Americans to succeed --- but that can't happen in an environment of lawless chaos. We must restore integrity and the rule of law to our borders.
For that reason, we will soon begin the construction of a great wall along our southern border. It will be started ahead of schedule and, when finished, it will be a very effective weapon against drugs and crime.
As we speak, we are removing gang members, drug dealers and criminals that threaten our communities and prey on our citizens. Bad ones are going out as I speak tonight and as I have promised.
To any in Congress who do not believe we should enforce our laws, I would ask you this question: what would you say to the American family that loses their jobs, their income, or a loved one, because America refused to uphold its laws and defend its borders?
Our obligation is to serve, protect, and defend the citizens of the United States. We are also taking strong measures to protect our Nation from Radical Islamic Terrorism.
According to data provided by the Department of Justice, the vast majority of individuals convicted for terrorism-related offenses since 9/11 came here from outside of our country. We have seen the attacks at home --- from Boston to San Bernardino to the Pentagon and yes, even the World Trade Center.
We have seen the attacks in France, in Belgium, in Germany and all over the world.
It is not compassionate, but reckless, to allow uncontrolled entry from places where proper vetting cannot occur. Those given the high honor of admission to the United States should support this country and love its people and its values.
We cannot allow a beachhead of terrorism to form inside America -- we cannot allow our Nation to become a sanctuary for extremists.
That is why my Administration has been working on improved vetting procedures, and we will shortly take new steps to keep our Nation safe -- and to keep out those who would do us harm.
As promised, I directed the Department of Defense to develop a plan to demolish and destroy ISIS -- a network of lawless savages that have slaughtered Muslims and Christians, and men, women, and children of all faiths and beliefs. We will work with our allies, including our friends and allies in the Muslim world, to extinguish this vile enemy from our planet.
I have also imposed new sanctions on entities and individuals who support Iran's ballistic missile program, and reaffirmed our unbreakable alliance with the State of Israel.
Finally, I have kept my promise to appoint a Justice to the United States Supreme Court -- from my list of 20 judges -- who will defend our Constitution. I am honored to have Maureen Scalia with us in the gallery tonight. Her late, great husband, Antonin Scalia, will forever be a symbol of American justice. To fill his seat, we have chosen Judge Neil Gorsuch, a man of incredible skill, and deep devotion to the law. He was confirmed unanimously to the Court of Appeals, and I am asking the Senate to swiftly approve his nomination.
Tonight, as I outline the next steps we must take as a country, we must honestly acknowledge the circumstances we inherited.
Ninety-four million Americans are out of the labor force.
Over 43 million people are now living in poverty, and over 43 million Americans are on food stamps.
More than 1 in 5 people in their prime working years are not working.
We have the worst financial recovery in 65 years.
In the last 8 years, the past Administration has put on more new debt than nearly all other Presidents combined.
We've lost more than one-fourth of our manufacturing jobs since NAFTA was approved, and we've lost 60,000 factories since China joined the World Trade Organization in 2001.
Our trade deficit in goods with the world last year was nearly $800 billion dollars.
And overseas, we have inherited a series of tragic foreign policy disasters.
Solving these, and so many other pressing problems, will require us to work past the differences of party. It will require us to tap into the American spirit that has overcome every challenge throughout our long and storied history.
But to accomplish our goals at home and abroad, we must restart the engine of the American economy -- making it easier for companies to do business in the United States, and much harder for companies to leave.
Right now, American companies are taxed at one of the highest rates anywhere in the world.
My economic team is developing historic tax reform that will reduce the tax rate on our companies so they can compete and thrive anywhere and with anyone. At the same time, we will provide massive tax relief for the middle class.
We must create a level playing field for American companies and workers.
Currently, when we ship products out of America, many other countries make us pay very high tariffs and taxes -- but when foreign companies ship their products into America, we charge them almost nothing.
I just met with officials and workers from a great American company, Harley-Davidson. In fact, they proudly displayed five of their magnificent motorcycles, made in the USA, on the front lawn of the White House.
At our meeting, I asked them, how are you doing, how is business? They said that it's good. I asked them further how they are doing with other countries, mainly international sales. They told me -- without even complaining because they have been mistreated for so long that they have become used to it -- that it is very hard to do business with other countries because they tax our goods at such a high rate. They said that in one case another country taxed their motorcycles at 100 percent.
They weren't even asking for change. But I am.
I believe strongly in free trade but it also has to be FAIR TRADE.
The first Republican President, Abraham Lincoln, warned that the "abandonment of the protective policy by the American Government [will] produce want and ruin among our people."
Lincoln was right -- and it is time we heeded his words. I am not going to let America and its great companies and workers, be taken advantage of anymore.
I am going to bring back millions of jobs. Protecting our workers also means reforming our system of legal immigration. The current, outdated system depresses wages for our poorest workers, and puts great pressure on taxpayers.
Nations around the world, like Canada, Australia and many others --- have a merit-based immigration system. It is a basic principle that those seeking to enter a country ought to be able to support themselves financially. Yet, in America, we do not enforce this rule, straining the very public resources that our poorest citizens rely upon. According to the National Academy of Sciences, our current immigration system costs America's taxpayers many billions of dollars a year.
Switching away from this current system of lower-skilled immigration, and instead adopting a merit-based system, will have many benefits: it will save countless dollars, raise workers' wages, and help struggling families --- including immigrant families --- enter the middle class.
I believe that real and positive immigration reform is possible, as long as we focus on the following goals: to improve jobs and wages for Americans, to strengthen our nation's security, and to restore respect for our laws.
If we are guided by the well-being of American citizens then I believe Republicans and Democrats can work together to achieve an outcome that has eluded our country for decades.
Another Republican President, Dwight D. Eisenhower, initiated the last truly great national infrastructure program --- the building of the interstate highway system. The time has come for a new program of national rebuilding.
America has spent approximately six trillion dollars in the Middle East, all this while our infrastructure at home is crumbling. With this six trillion dollars we could have rebuilt our country --- twice. And maybe even three times if we had people who had the ability to negotiate.
To launch our national rebuilding, I will be asking the Congress to approve legislation that produces a $1 trillion investment in the infrastructure of the United States -- financed through both public and private capital --- creating millions of new jobs.
This effort will be guided by two core principles: Buy American, and Hire American.
Tonight, I am also calling on this Congress to repeal and replace Obamacare with reforms that expand choice, increase access, lower costs, and at the same time, provide better Healthcare.
Mandating every American to buy government-approved health insurance was never the right solution for America. The way to make health insurance available to everyone is to lower the cost of health insurance, and that is what we will do.
Obamacare premiums nationwide have increased by double and triple digits. As an example, Arizona went up 116 percent last year alone. Governor Matt Bevin of Kentucky just said Obamacare is failing in his State -- it is unsustainable and collapsing.
One third of counties have only one insurer on the exchanges --- leaving many Americans with no choice at all.
Remember when you were told that you could keep your doctor, and keep your plan?
We now know that all of those promises have been broken.
Obamacare is collapsing --- and we must act decisively to protect all Americans. Action is not a choice --- it is a necessity.
So I am calling on all Democrats and Republicans in the Congress to work with us to save Americans from this imploding Obamacare disaster.
Here are the principles that should guide the Congress as we move to create a better healthcare system for all Americans:
First, we should ensure that Americans with pre-existing conditions have access to coverage, and that we have a stable transition for Americans currently enrolled in the healthcare exchanges.
Secondly, we should help Americans purchase their own coverage, through the use of tax credits and expanded Health Savings Accounts --- but it must be the plan they want, not the plan forced on them by the Government.
Thirdly, we should give our great State Governors the resources and flexibility they need with Medicaid to make sure no one is left out.
Fourthly, we should implement legal reforms that protect patients and doctors from unnecessary costs that drive up the price of insurance -- and work to bring down the artificially high price of drugs and bring them down immediately.
Finally, the time has come to give Americans the freedom to purchase health insurance across State lines --- creating a truly competitive national marketplace that will bring cost way down and provide far better care.
Everything that is broken in our country can be fixed. Every problem can be solved. And every hurting family can find healing, and hope.
Our citizens deserve this, and so much more --- so why not join forces to finally get it done? On this and so many other things, Democrats and Republicans should get together and unite for the good of our country, and for the good of the American people.
My administration wants to work with members in both parties to make childcare accessible and affordable, to help ensure new parents have paid family leave, to invest in women's health, and to promote clean air and clear water, and to rebuild our military and our infrastructure.
True love for our people requires us to find common ground, to advance the common good, and to cooperate on behalf of every American child who deserves a brighter future.
An incredible young woman is with us this evening who should serve as an inspiration to us all.
Today is Rare Disease day, and joining us in the gallery is a Rare Disease Survivor, Megan Crowley. Megan was diagnosed with Pompe Disease, a rare and serious illness, when she was 15 months old. She was not expected to live past 5.
On receiving this news, Megan's dad, John, fought with everything he had to save the life of his precious child. He founded a company to look for a cure, and helped develop the drug that saved Megan's life. Today she is 20 years old -- and a sophomore at Notre Dame.
Megan's story is about the unbounded power of a father's love for a daughter.
But our slow and burdensome approval process at the Food and Drug Administration keeps too many advances, like the one that saved Megan's life, from reaching those in need.
If we slash the restraints, not just at the FDA but across our Government, then we will be blessed with far more miracles like Megan.
In fact, our children will grow up in a Nation of miracles.
But to achieve this future, we must enrich the mind --- and the souls --- of every American child.
Education is the civil rights issue of our time.
I am calling upon Members of both parties to pass an education bill that funds school choice for disadvantaged youth, including millions of African-American and Latino children. These families should be free to choose the public, private, charter, magnet, religious or home school that is right for them.
Joining us tonight in the gallery is a remarkable woman, Denisha Merriweather. As a young girl, Denisha struggled in school and failed third grade twice. But then she was able to enroll in a private center for learning, with the help of a tax credit scholarship program. Today, she is the first in her family to graduate, not just from high school, but from college. Later this year she will get her masters degree in social work.
We want all children to be able to break the cycle of poverty just like Denisha.
But to break the cycle of poverty, we must also break the cycle of violence.
The murder rate in 2015 experienced its largest single-year increase in nearly half a century.
In Chicago, more than 4,000 people were shot last year alone --- and the murder rate so far this year has been even higher.
This is not acceptable in our society.
Every American child should be able to grow up in a safe community, to attend a great school, and to have access to a high-paying job.
But to create this future, we must work with --- not against --- the men and women of law enforcement.
We must build bridges of cooperation and trust --- not drive the wedge of disunity and division.
Police and sheriffs are members of our community. They are friends and neighbors, they are mothers and fathers, sons and daughters -- and they leave behind loved ones every day who worry whether or not they'll come home safe and sound.
We must support the incredible men and women of law enforcement.
And we must support the victims of crime.
I have ordered the Department of Homeland Security to create an office to serve American Victims. The office is called VOICE --- Victims Of Immigration Crime Engagement. We are providing a voice to those who have been ignored by our media, and silenced by special interests.
Joining us in the audience tonight are four very brave Americans whose government failed them.
Their names are Jamiel Shaw, Susan Oliver, Jenna Oliver, and Jessica Davis.
Jamiel's 17-year-old son was viciously murdered by an illegal immigrant gang member, who had just been released from prison. Jamiel Shaw Jr. was an incredible young man, with unlimited potential who was getting ready to go to college where he would have excelled as a great quarterback. But he never got the chance. His father, who is in the audience tonight, has become a good friend of mine.
Also with us are Susan Oliver and Jessica Davis. Their husbands --- Deputy Sheriff Danny Oliver and Detective Michael Davis --- were slain in the line of duty in California. They were pillars of their community. These brave men were viciously gunned down by an illegal immigrant with a criminal record and two prior deportations.
Sitting with Susan is her daughter, Jenna. Jenna: I want you to know that your father was a hero, and that tonight you have the love of an entire country supporting you and praying for you.
To Jamiel, Jenna, Susan and Jessica: I want you to know --- we will never stop fighting for justice. Your loved ones will never be forgotten, we will always honor their memory.
Finally, to keep America Safe we must provide the men and women of the United States military with the tools they need to prevent war and --- if they must --- to fight and to win.
I am sending the Congress a budget that rebuilds the military, eliminates the Defense sequester, and calls for one of the largest increases in national defense spending in American history.
My budget will also increase funding for our veterans.
Our veterans have delivered for this Nation --- and now we must deliver for them.
The challenges we face as a Nation are great. But our people are even greater.
And none are greater or braver than those who fight for America in uniform.
We are blessed to be joined tonight by Carryn Owens, the widow of a U.S. Navy Special Operator, Senior Chief William "Ryan" Owens. Ryan died as he lived: a warrior, and a hero --- battling against terrorism and securing our Nation.
I just spoke to General Mattis, who reconfirmed that, and I quote, "Ryan was a part of a highly successful raid that generated large amounts of vital intelligence that will lead to many more victories in the future against our enemies." Ryan's legacy is etched into eternity. For as the Bible teaches us, there is no greater act of love than to lay down one's life for one's friends. Ryan laid down his life for his friends, for his country, and for our freedom --- we will never forget him.
To those allies who wonder what kind of friend America will be, look no further than the heroes who wear our uniform.
Our foreign policy calls for a direct, robust and meaningful engagement with the world. It is American leadership based on vital security interests that we share with our allies across the globe.
We strongly support NATO, an alliance forged through the bonds of two World Wars that dethroned fascism, and a Cold War that defeated communism.
But our partners must meet their financial obligations.
And now, based on our very strong and frank discussions, they are beginning to do just that.
We expect our partners, whether in NATO, in the Middle East, or the Pacific --- to take a direct and meaningful role in both strategic and military operations, and pay their fair share of the cost.
We will respect historic institutions, but we will also respect the sovereign rights of nations.
Free nations are the best vehicle for expressing the will of the people --- and America respects the right of all nations to chart their own path. My job is not to represent the world. My job is to represent the United States of America. But we know that America is better off, when there is less conflict -- not more.
We must learn from the mistakes of the past --- we have seen the war and destruction that have raged across our world.
The only long-term solution for these humanitarian disasters is to create the conditions where displaced persons can safely return home and begin the long process of rebuilding.
America is willing to find new friends, and to forge new partnerships, where shared interests align. We want harmony and stability, not war and conflict.
We want peace, wherever peace can be found. America is friends today with former enemies. Some of our closest allies, decades ago, fought on the opposite side of these World Wars. This history should give us all faith in the possibilities for a better world.
Hopefully, the 250th year for America will see a world that is more peaceful, more just and more free.
On our 100th anniversary, in 1876, citizens from across our Nation came to Philadelphia to celebrate America's centennial. At that celebration, the country's builders and artists and inventors showed off their creations.
Alexander Graham Bell displayed his telephone for the first time.
Remington unveiled the first typewriter. An early attempt was made at electric light.
Thomas Edison showed an automatic telegraph and an electric pen.
Imagine the wonders our country could know in America's 250th year.
Think of the marvels we can achieve if we simply set free the dreams of our people.
Cures to illnesses that have always plagued us are not too much to hope.
American footprints on distant worlds are not too big a dream.
Millions lifted from welfare to work is not too much to expect.
And streets where mothers are safe from fear -- schools where children learn in peace -- and jobs where Americans prosper and grow -- are not too much to ask.
When we have all of this, we will have made America greater than ever before. For all Americans.
This is our vision. This is our mission.
But we can only get there together.
We are one people, with one destiny.
We all bleed the same blood.
We all salute the same flag.
And we are all made by the same God.
And when we fulfill this vision; when we celebrate our 250 years of glorious freedom, we will look back on tonight as when this new chapter of American Greatness began.
The time for small thinking is over. The time for trivial fights is behind us.
We just need the courage to share the dreams that fill our hearts.
The bravery to express the hopes that stir our souls.
And the confidence to turn those hopes and dreams to action.
From now on, America will be empowered by our aspirations, not burdened by our fears ---
inspired by the future, not bound by the failures of the past ---
and guided by our vision, not blinded by our doubts.
I am asking all citizens to embrace this Renewal of the American Spirit. I am asking all members of Congress to join me in dreaming big, and bold and daring things for our country. And I am asking everyone watching tonight to seize this moment and --
Believe in yourselves.
Believe in your future.
And believe, once more, in America.
Thank you, God bless you, and God Bless these United States.

Source:

http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/politics/onpolitics/2017/02/28/trump-speech-length/98560186/?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter

http://abcnews.go.com/Politics/fact-checking-president-donald-trumps-address-joint-session/story?id=45801701&cid=social_twitter_abcnp

http://www.nbcnews.com/storyline/trumps-address-to-congress

http://www.cbsnews.com/news/trump-address-joint-session-congress-live-updates/

https://www.nytimes.com/2017/02/28/us/politics/trump-address-congress.html?_r=0

http://www.cnn.com/videos/politics/2017/03/01/democratic-women-wear-white-donald-trump-speech-sot-ctn.cnn

http://www.cnn.com/2017/02/28/politics/donald-trump-speech-transcript-full-text/

House Votes to Ban Federal Funding of Abortions

The Grand Old Party or GOP is historically known for freeing the slaves.  Well, they are once again chipping away at today's slavery which has the unborn imprisoned in the wombs of women who want to kill them.

The House has passed the Hyde Amendment which will permanently ban taxpayer money to fund abortions.  The measure passed 238-183.  It is a step in the right directly, but there are still flaws in it such as the exception for abortions in cases of rape or incest.

Hopefully, an amendment will be made to the Constitution which will define personhood as beginning at conception. This should close all the gaps and flaws in other laws.

Speaker Ryan released this statement:

“We are a pro-life Congress. Today we renewed our commitment to the Hyde Amendment with the passage of the No Taxpayer Funding for Abortion Act. I want to thank Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ) for his tireless commitment to this cause. This legislation protects the conscience of American taxpayers by ensuring that not a single dollar of their hard-earned money goes to fund abortions. As hundreds of thousands of Americans flock to Washington for the March for Life, we must never forget that defending all of our people—especially the defenseless—must be our top priority if we want to be a good and moral nation.”

As we approach the March For Life on Friday, let us pray that abortion will be abortion from our society. Hopefully, President Trump will nominate a judge who will help overturn Roe v. Wade and protect human life from conception to natural death.




Source:

http://www.speaker.gov/press-release/house-passes-hyde-amendment

http://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/us-house-votes-to-permanently-ban-federal-abortion-funding-54350/?platform=hootsuite

http://www.cnn.com/2017/01/24/politics/house-approves-bill-barring-taxpayer-money-for-abortions/index.html?sr=fbpol012517house-approves-bill-barring-taxpayer-money-for-abortions0200AMVODtopLink&linkId=33740282

http://www.allenbwest.com/mlee/congress-passes-first-huge-bill-trump-presidency

http://www.cnsnews.com/news/article/penny-starr/ahead-march-life-congress-moves-legislation-forward-end-taxpayer-funding

https://www.lifesitenews.com/news/breaking-u.s.-house-votes-to-permanently-ban-taxpayer-funding-of-abortion

Speaker Boehner Resigns

Speaker of the House John Boehner announced that he would be resigning by the end of October. The move came as a shock to many, especially in the GOP. Some believe that perhaps the Pope's visit to Congress had an effect on him.  He visibly cried inside of the House chambers as well as on the Speaker's balcony. However, political pundits believe he resigned after pressure from a more conservative faction in the GOP which wanted him to push for legislation that defunded Planned Parenthood or shut down the government if the defunding did not take place.

Boehner has been in office since 2011 and have received a lot of criticism for now being able to stop Obama from pushing his agenda on the American people. He has tried to stifle Obama's plans but has failed to do so. Even after Republicans took both the House and Senate, Boehner has not been able to lead republicans in stopping Obama's agendas and making a Republican accomplishment stand out.







Source:


http://www.dailyamerican.com/news/local/somerset/speaker-boehner-resigns-from-congress-victory-for-tea-party/image_bf87bc0c-84f0-5db8-9d6c-4c3d510fcf9c.html

http://www.wvnstv.com/story/30115489/breaking-gop-lawmakers-house-speaker-john-boehner-to-step-down-end-of-october

http://www.saratogian.com/general-news/20150925/bulletin-us-house-speaker-john-boehner-to-resign-end-of-october

Republicans Win Big

As expected, the GOP took the Senate. Many political pundits predicted that Republicans would take the Congress due to a wave of voter discontent at Obama's policies. In fact, many Democratic candidates tried hard to set themselves apart from President Obama in order to avoid being seen as part of his failure as president.

President Obama will not have a rough two years which are left in his presidency with a Republican Congress leaving him pretty much powerless. The American people have spoken and told Obama collectively that they do not approve of his policies and want change. From Obamacare to immigration, the dream act and Ebola, Obama has failed on these issues and made decisions which have angered the American people. Not all Democrats lost. Governor Cuomo retained his governorship in New York state and is pushing his progressive views there. The infamous "abortion barbie" Wendy Davis lost to wheelchair bound Greg Abbot who she mocked in a commercial.  He had over 59% of the vote in Texas.  

Republican Mitch McConnel is expected to be the new Senate majority leader and vowed to unite Congress in order to get work done in Washington, DC.  President Obama has yet to release any congratulatory message. Ballots were also being voted on throughout the union. Many states voted to pass a minimum wage increase and measures to make marijuana legal.  Florida knocked down a measure to legalized medicinal marijuana. Colorado disturbingly voted down a measure that would have amended its constitution to define an unborn child as a person. They legalized marijuana last year, but cannot define an unborn child as a human person.  This is troubling indeed!

Congratulations to the GOP for taking control of the Senate. Hopefully they will repeal Obamacare which has caused so much harm with religious freedom as well as push for more restrictions against abortion and defend marriage as the union between one man and one woman.

Senate Results

House Results

Governor Results

Source:

http://www.cnn.com/?refresh=1

http://www.cnn.com/2014/11/04/politics/election-day-story/index.html?hpt=hp_t1

http://news.yahoo.com/senate-control-top-prize-midterm-election-080423144--election.html

Carlos Danger

Anthony Weiner is at it again.  He had resigned from Congress after it was revealed that he was "Sexting" with other women.

"Sexting" is when people take lewd photos of themselves with cell phones and send them to other parties.  Weiner sent pictures of himself to younger women, embarrassing himself and his wife Huma.  At first he claimed that someone hacked his account, but later confessed to being the sender.

He left public eye for some time only to resurface again as a mayoral candidate for the city of New York.  Ironically, despite the scandal, he was leading in the polls, even ahead of Councilwoman Christine Quinn.

Today, Weiner confessed once again to sexting right after stepping down from Congress.  Again, his wife Huma was left feeling awkward and betrayed.  He used the pseudonym "Carlos Danger" to conduct this bad behavior.

It seems that Weiner has a compulsive behavior problem.  He is addicted to the reward that he gets from sexting with others.  The entire phenomenon of sexting is strange indeed.  It seems that people who sext shut off their conscience and reasoning skills.  They seem to not be aware that they are exposing their intimate parts to the entire world.  These photographs will last forever online and will do serious harm to one's reputation.

Anthony Weiner has to step down once again.  He is not fit to be a leader.  This man is obviously suffering from mental illness and he needs to get immediate attention.    





Source:

http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-250_162-57595165/anthony-weiner-give-me-another-chance/

http://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/anthony-weiner-vs-carlos-danger-the-politics-of-the-post-paramour-era/2013/07/23/5b91982c-f3e9-11e2-9434-60440856fadf_story.html?wprss=rss_style

http://swampland.time.com/2013/07/23/anthony-weiner-admits-to-more-lewd-photos/?xid=rss-topstories

In God We Trust

Today the US Congress voted to keep the official motto of the United States of America: "In God We Trust."  President Obama responded stating that (I paraphrase), "In God we trust will not put people back to work,"  (http://politics.blogs.foxnews.com/2011/11/02/obama-god-we-trust-vote-not-creating-jobs)

The words "In God We Trust"  have been on coins since the 1860's.  In the 1950's it was then applied to paper money.  The use of this motto came from US Treasury Secretary Salmon Chase who served under the Presidency of Abraham Lincoln.  It is seen everywhere, in courts, patriotic songs, documents, even in the final verse of the Stars Spangled Banner .

This motto reflects the ideals of a nation that fought for independence, existence, and rights against larger more powerful nations.  Early Americans used primitive weapons and guerilla warfare in order to fight against the powerful, organized British military.   As we all know, they won!

Recently a reporter on WPIX named Lionel gave a critique regarding the use of this motto.  He claimed it is "stupid, a waste of money and a contradiction of the 1st amendment."

Moreover, he suggested that the Republican party somehow has exclusivity to God.

Is it really stupid and a waste of money?   Does the motto really contradict the 1st amendment?

Not at all.

A motto that has been a part of the fabric of the United States of America since its infancy is anything but stupid.  The money spent to vote on it perhaps, but not the motto itself.  As for it being a contradiction, that is a misinterpretation of the 1st amendment.

The amendment reads:

"Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof..."


This merely states that Congress cannot make any religion officially part of the government nor endorse one; nor can it prohibit any religion from freely exercising its beliefs within the union.  It says nothing about the government using motto's that mention a deity in a general way, nor the government using prayer.


Not all religions have a deity.  Buddhism is an example.  "In God we trust" has no religious value whatsoever to a Buddhist.  To claim that the motto endorses religion is ridiculous.  It is merely a statement that the United States of America trusts in a God.  Which God?  Just God.    


As a former atheist, I never had a problem with the motto.  I saw it not as an expression of faith, but a recollection of America's history.  It is a principle that the early Americans followed in order to help build this great nation.  If I were living in another nation and its money said, "In Zeus we trust" or "In Allah we trust," I would not get offended.  I must be an intelligent tolerant adult about it and realize that the particular nation using the motto is reflecting its history and ideals.  


The 1st amendment came into existence not to get rid of religion or separate it from the State, but rather to reflect on and answer the hardships the early settlers had in Europe where particular denominations had temporal power.  


America was going to be a nation that did not repeat what was experienced in Europe, but rather to start a new experiment.  A nation with freedom for all regardless of gender, faith or social status.  A nation "of the people, by the people, and for the people."  That was the idea behind this amendment.  It was not meant to have the Church and State point guns at each other. 


The suggestion that the Republicans are the only party that endorse God, Faith, Religion or Morals is unfounded.  There are Democrats, Independents and many political parties who also share these ideals.  President Obama, a Democrat is a Christian, so is former President Clinton.  Speaker Nancy Pelosi is a Catholic.  God does not belong to the Republicans or any particular party.  God is for anyone who is open to faith.       


No one can deny that the American Fathers were theists and that this nation was indeed founded on Judeo-Christian ideas.  We should accept and respect our nation's history and how our ancestors did things.  


A nation without God never thrives.  


Nations that have gone the route of secularism are disappearing from the face of the world.  France, Great Britain, Spain are examples.  We must return to the simplicity the early Americans had and trust God.  If we kick God out and try to do it ourselves, we will destroy ourselves.  




Here is some Scripture I am sure the American Founding Fathers read and were inspired by:




“If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their nation.” 2 Chron. 7:14


“A nation without God's guidance is a nation without order. Happy are those who keep God's law!” Proverbs 29:18


“When there is moral rot within a nation, its government topples easily; but with honest, sensible leaders there is stability.” Proverbs 28:2


  

God bless America and yes: IN GOD WE TRUST!   AMEN

Voting

Voting is an important act and should be used wisely.

We can elect a good person or a bad one and our choice will can have consequences that we will have to answer when judgment day or death comes if our conscience and intellect were properly utilized.

As citizens of the United States of America, we all have our individual reasons why we vote either way. However, we must not be selfish and instead vote for the candidate that will bring about the common good for all not just ourselves.

Many I am sure will take this voting opportunity to elect some one they feel will better the economy and bring troops home. Yes, those are excellent reasons to vote for we do need economy to survive in a world that currently uses money to perform trades and transactions. Yes, we do want peace and our troops home to be with their families and friends. However, we must remember that politicians are known for making promises that are nearly impossible to complete and mainly do so to win over voters. So we cannot rush to judgment on promises alone.

We must be informed voters and understand each candidates ideas and plans before making a choice. Some will vote for one candidate because he is older, stern and has more experience, while others may vote for another candidate because he is African American, popular, and a fresh new face in politics. But we must stick to the common good and how either candidate will bring about them.

Does the candidate value life? Does he or she believe life is sacred and precious and must never be aborted or euthanized for any reason? Does the candidate value education for all? Does the candidate value fair economics for all in every social and monetary class? Does the candidate value the sacred institution of marriage between one man and one woman as God and nature intended? Does the candidate value America's customs, its Constitution and laws about him/herself. Does the candidate put America's protection first in a time of war and terrorism?

These are some of the questions we must ask when choosing a candidate to vote. God gave us conscience so we must put it to use and vote for a candidate that will bring about the common good, not just focus on one area. This is the moral thing to do.

We cannot vote for a candidate based on his color, speaking skills, charisma, voting record, interest in helping the rich or the poor, his religion, etc. His color should not matter, nor his speaking skills since speeches are written by others not the candidate. Charisma is important to draw attention, but the presidency is a serious job and not for a performer. Voting record is important, but those votes are in the past and what matters is the candidates current platform. A candidate should focus ..ing all, rich and poor. His religion should not matter as long as he respects the Judeo/Christian values and views of this nation and does not impose his own personal views and beliefs.

This election is an important one, but so has every other election. Let us vote for a good candidate who will protect all, the unborn, the born, people of all ages, races, gender, religion, orientation and social class. Let us vote for some one who will follow the law in a moral way and not try to legislate his views from the Oval office and try to rewrite social norms such as marriage and when a person should live and die.

God bless America and may the best candidate for our current time win and have great success in bringing about the common good.

about 8 months ago