Thursday, September 29, 2016
How to Select an American President: US Government lives month to month
How to Select an American President: US Government lives month to month: The news this morning is that Congress has passed legislation to keep the government open until the end of the year. In essence, the federal...
US Government lives month to month
The news this morning is that Congress has passed legislation to keep the government open until the end of the year. In essence, the federal government lives from month to month.
What does this say about the state of the union? Presently, the dysfunctional Congress decided to fund the government so incumbents can go home to get reelected. Have they earned the will of the people to return them to office? Most incumbents are not qualified to be there in the first place. They didn't have sufficient experience entering the office, and it is impossible to gain experience while in government that should have been acquired outside. That is one view. They can't get better with more government experience.
Besides, this Congress has left an enormous debt that is not just unattended; it has been permitted to grow. The interest on the debt is eating our future as a nation.
Needed to improve the situation are representatives who can help prioritize and to limit and reduce our obligations with compassion for those who need extraordinary assistance. In a global context, we must increase collaboration among free world allies and to encourage more proportionate sharing of the cost to rescue humanity from disasters that a principally created by too many people living in unsustainable places.
Let's discuss.
What does this say about the state of the union? Presently, the dysfunctional Congress decided to fund the government so incumbents can go home to get reelected. Have they earned the will of the people to return them to office? Most incumbents are not qualified to be there in the first place. They didn't have sufficient experience entering the office, and it is impossible to gain experience while in government that should have been acquired outside. That is one view. They can't get better with more government experience.
Besides, this Congress has left an enormous debt that is not just unattended; it has been permitted to grow. The interest on the debt is eating our future as a nation.
Needed to improve the situation are representatives who can help prioritize and to limit and reduce our obligations with compassion for those who need extraordinary assistance. In a global context, we must increase collaboration among free world allies and to encourage more proportionate sharing of the cost to rescue humanity from disasters that a principally created by too many people living in unsustainable places.
Let's discuss.
"House approves stopgap funding, averting costly shutdown
By Sarah Ferris and Cristina Marcos - 09/28/16 09:57 PM EDT
The House on Wednesday approved a bill to fund the federal government through December 9, averting a costly shutdown two days ahead of the deadline.
The 10-week bill, which passed comfortably 342 to 85, now heads to the president’s desk and sends lawmakers back to their district early for campaigning.
A majority of the Republican conference backed the bill, with just 75 Republicans opposing it. Ten Democrats voted against the bill.
Lawmakers agreed to keep federal agencies running through Dec. 9, while also funding a $1.1 billion emergency aid package to halt the spread of the Zika virus. Flood-stricken regions in Louisiana, West Virginia and Maryland will also receive a half-billion dollars.
The months-long marathon to fund the government turned into a sprint Wednesday as lawmakers raced toward the exits. The pre-election adjournment comes just a few weeks after Congress was out of session for a two-month summer recess.
http://thehill.com/policy/finance/298418-house-approves-stopgap-funding-averting-costly-shutdown
James George, Author
Wednesday, September 28, 2016
How to Select an American President: For Trump, the world is a trap
How to Select an American President: For Trump, the world is a trap: Everywhere that he turns, Donald Trump discovers that outside of his owned and family-managed business bubble, it's full of traps outsid...
For Trump, the world is a trap
Everywhere that he turns, Donald Trump discovers that outside of his owned and family-managed business bubble, it's full of traps.
Beyond the women in his bubble or on his leashes, they are otherwise traps.
Call or describe them however you please inside the bubble, outside of that, he can't that and get away with it. It isn't just a matter of bad behavior. His behavior is an affront to American values for equality, liberty, and justice.
While he protests that the world outside is unfair and not nice to him, his core values and practices are representative of the problem in a white man's world.
Trump's problem is debilitating for a candidate of the United States who must represent all of the people, all of the time.
Beyond the women in his bubble or on his leashes, they are otherwise traps.
Call or describe them however you please inside the bubble, outside of that, he can't that and get away with it. It isn't just a matter of bad behavior. His behavior is an affront to American values for equality, liberty, and justice.
While he protests that the world outside is unfair and not nice to him, his core values and practices are representative of the problem in a white man's world.
Trump's problem is debilitating for a candidate of the United States who must represent all of the people, all of the time.
"The Daily 202: Trump stumbles into Clinton’s trap by feuding with Latina beauty queen"
The Washington Post
Boy in the bubble
How to Select an American President: What it takes to govern the U.S. enterprise
How to Select an American President: What it takes to govern the U.S. enterprise: After the first presidential debate, the difference between candidate's temperament and preparedness should be clear. A president's ...
What it takes to govern the U.S. enterprise
After the first presidential debate, the difference between candidate's temperament and preparedness should be clear. A president's personality as a leader makes a difference. Not every president must have the same or similar personalities. However, there are some traits that make it easier, or otherwise, make them more effective.
As a baseline, voters should want a president to be rock-solid as a trusted source of command and control. While the incumbent may deviate to accommodate the circumstances, the center point is being dependable. By contrast, being erratic is not what is wanted.
In the instance of Donald Trump, Americans have witnessed personality extremes that might constitute erratic behavior. Not being a social scientist or psychologist, this analyst can only observe what is apparent. That is why in my new book, How to Select an American President by James George with James Rodger (c) 2016 Archway Publishing, I recommend that presidential candidates be evaluated by medical and mental health professionals to obtain a certified assessment. Having been a Fortune 500 Company manager in the past, I have personally had such psychological assessments, and they served as a guide to my employers as well as for my personal and professional development.
For a long time, critics have pressed Hillary Clinton about her changeability and inconsistencies with some alleged that she can't be trusted. Stripping away the political spin, overall, what one might see is adaptability.
Adaptability is a feature that may be applied to systems and people. In business as in government, being adaptable can be a good thing, as being flexible and accommodating. These characteristics are aligned with capacity and capability to collaborate and to compromise in a bipartisan environment that is our federal government.
Being rigid and hard-nosed are more autocratic behaviors that are less suited for working in an adaptive pluralistic democratic republic.
In addition to having acquired vast knowledge about a broad range of subjects, including to a working level of detail, an effective president needs exceptional personality traits.
As a baseline, voters should want a president to be rock-solid as a trusted source of command and control. While the incumbent may deviate to accommodate the circumstances, the center point is being dependable. By contrast, being erratic is not what is wanted.
In the instance of Donald Trump, Americans have witnessed personality extremes that might constitute erratic behavior. Not being a social scientist or psychologist, this analyst can only observe what is apparent. That is why in my new book, How to Select an American President by James George with James Rodger (c) 2016 Archway Publishing, I recommend that presidential candidates be evaluated by medical and mental health professionals to obtain a certified assessment. Having been a Fortune 500 Company manager in the past, I have personally had such psychological assessments, and they served as a guide to my employers as well as for my personal and professional development.
For a long time, critics have pressed Hillary Clinton about her changeability and inconsistencies with some alleged that she can't be trusted. Stripping away the political spin, overall, what one might see is adaptability.
Adaptability is a feature that may be applied to systems and people. In business as in government, being adaptable can be a good thing, as being flexible and accommodating. These characteristics are aligned with capacity and capability to collaborate and to compromise in a bipartisan environment that is our federal government.
Being rigid and hard-nosed are more autocratic behaviors that are less suited for working in an adaptive pluralistic democratic republic.
In addition to having acquired vast knowledge about a broad range of subjects, including to a working level of detail, an effective president needs exceptional personality traits.
Adaptable
Wired image
Autocratic
pbs.org image
Tuesday, September 27, 2016
How to Select an American President: Prediction: Clinton climbs in polls
How to Select an American President: Prediction: Clinton climbs in polls: After the first debate and Trump's collapse, it is hard to imagine that Clinton would not rise in the polls. This analyst predicts a 4-5...
Prediction: Clinton climbs in polls
After the first debate and Trump's collapse, it is hard to imagine that Clinton would not rise in the polls. This analyst predicts a 4-5 point uptick that would make her a 56:44 favorite to win the election. Her performance can improve with some factors:
Trump continues his cycle of self-destruction -- that could happen by his not releasing his tax returns and by yammering as he is want to do.
Clinton stays on course with her chirpy and upbeat style while focusing on plans and programs that aim at building the economy from the middle class out.
Clinton stays firm in addressing violence and terrorism while appealing for unity among affected communities -- she needs to put her boots on the ground to meet with local leaders including law enforcement.
As important, Clinton must keep Trump in the "unfit" box that he built for himself. His own personality disorders are likely to keep him there as the environment becomes less nice around him.
"I think Donald just criticized me for preparing for this debate. And, yes, I did. You know what else I prepared for? I prepared to be president. And I think that's a good thing," Clinton said.
Trump said that Clinton has said things about him that are "not nice. Not nice at all."
Trump continues his cycle of self-destruction -- that could happen by his not releasing his tax returns and by yammering as he is want to do.
Clinton stays on course with her chirpy and upbeat style while focusing on plans and programs that aim at building the economy from the middle class out.
Clinton stays firm in addressing violence and terrorism while appealing for unity among affected communities -- she needs to put her boots on the ground to meet with local leaders including law enforcement.
As important, Clinton must keep Trump in the "unfit" box that he built for himself. His own personality disorders are likely to keep him there as the environment becomes less nice around him.
"I think Donald just criticized me for preparing for this debate. And, yes, I did. You know what else I prepared for? I prepared to be president. And I think that's a good thing," Clinton said.
Trump said that Clinton has said things about him that are "not nice. Not nice at all."
CNN Screen Capture
Monday, September 26, 2016
How to Select an American President: Trump sniffles, Clinton soars
How to Select an American President: Trump sniffles, Clinton soars: If Clinton and Trump sat side by side out of the context of politics, they might agree with most of the trouble symptoms. They could even ag...
Trump sniffles, Clinton soars
If Clinton and Trump sat side by side out of the context of politics, they might agree with most of the trouble symptoms. They could even agree with many of the problem definitions. When it gets to solutions, they are as much a part as trickle down or infuse the middle.
Clinton soared in the first debate because she was prepared and knowledgeable. Trump appeared to be unprepared and much less knowledgeable. She is eloquent, and he repeats himself like a nervous tick.
Clinton's attack on Trump's tax filing, "He's hiding something," was quite useful. So was her saying that "He lives in his own reality."
Trump took a shot at Hillary's missing emails. She answered and the subject was dropped. Blame that on Lester Holt, the moderator?
Trump attempted to tar Clinton with 10-30 years of past bad policy that he alleged resulted in an enormous debt problem. He is correct that it is an enormous problem, but he undermined credibility by pinning it all on Clinton. In fact, she retorted that her husband had solved the problem once and that Republicans spoiled the results.
All in all, Clinton appeared fit and competent. Trump may have had a cold, and was inarticulate and redundant.
When it came to fielding questions about race and gender, Trump dropped the ball, or worse, as if it didn't matter because he didn't need those voters?
In a short debate format, such as this, voters can learn something about the character and abilities of candidates to communicate on their feet in an unscripted venue. Clinton won this one.
Better still, if you want to know the details, go to their websites, or read Clinton's book because she published her plans. Voters are still waiting to see Trump's tax returns.
Clinton soared in the first debate because she was prepared and knowledgeable. Trump appeared to be unprepared and much less knowledgeable. She is eloquent, and he repeats himself like a nervous tick.
Clinton's attack on Trump's tax filing, "He's hiding something," was quite useful. So was her saying that "He lives in his own reality."
Trump took a shot at Hillary's missing emails. She answered and the subject was dropped. Blame that on Lester Holt, the moderator?
Trump attempted to tar Clinton with 10-30 years of past bad policy that he alleged resulted in an enormous debt problem. He is correct that it is an enormous problem, but he undermined credibility by pinning it all on Clinton. In fact, she retorted that her husband had solved the problem once and that Republicans spoiled the results.
All in all, Clinton appeared fit and competent. Trump may have had a cold, and was inarticulate and redundant.
When it came to fielding questions about race and gender, Trump dropped the ball, or worse, as if it didn't matter because he didn't need those voters?
In a short debate format, such as this, voters can learn something about the character and abilities of candidates to communicate on their feet in an unscripted venue. Clinton won this one.
Better still, if you want to know the details, go to their websites, or read Clinton's book because she published her plans. Voters are still waiting to see Trump's tax returns.
Screen capture from CNN
How to Select an American President: Greatest political show on earth?
How to Select an American President: Greatest political show on earth?: Tonight's debate might be billed as a "really big show." However, the "the debate" is about how two very different ...
Greatest political show on earth?
Tonight's debate might be billed as a "really big show." However, the "the debate" is about how two very different candidates appear before the voter public. It is one small instance, a snapshot, along with a timeline that has produced "evidence" about them.
One organization and website that has served the U.S. voter public well is called, On the Issues, at http://www.ontheissues.org/default.htm. Here, you can see the candidates' side-by-side.
What are the "Economic Issues," for instance?
Privatize Social Security: Clinton strongly opposes messing with Social Security, while Trump wants to privatize it.
Higher taxes on the wealthy: Clinton strongly favors higher taxes on the wealthy and Trump goes along.
Stricter limits on political campaign funds: Both candidates favor limiting campaign funds.
Stimulus better than market-led recovery: Clinton favors stimulus while Trump favors market-led recovery and strongly opposes government intervention.
Prioritize green energy: Clinton strongly favors green energy policy while Trump strongly opposes.
Lester Holt could ask the question, what is the role of government and the economy? (He won't, but let's say that he did.)
The answer should be that the Federal Government's job is to create an optimal environment in which individuals and their corporations can flourish.
Next question, "How is that accomplished?"
The answer should be an explanation about how government policy and leadership optimize return on national resources that include people, materials, technology, and infrastructure in public and private partnership.
Have at it.
One organization and website that has served the U.S. voter public well is called, On the Issues, at http://www.ontheissues.org/default.htm. Here, you can see the candidates' side-by-side.
What are the "Economic Issues," for instance?
Privatize Social Security: Clinton strongly opposes messing with Social Security, while Trump wants to privatize it.
Higher taxes on the wealthy: Clinton strongly favors higher taxes on the wealthy and Trump goes along.
Stricter limits on political campaign funds: Both candidates favor limiting campaign funds.
Stimulus better than market-led recovery: Clinton favors stimulus while Trump favors market-led recovery and strongly opposes government intervention.
Prioritize green energy: Clinton strongly favors green energy policy while Trump strongly opposes.
Lester Holt could ask the question, what is the role of government and the economy? (He won't, but let's say that he did.)
The answer should be that the Federal Government's job is to create an optimal environment in which individuals and their corporations can flourish.
Next question, "How is that accomplished?"
The answer should be an explanation about how government policy and leadership optimize return on national resources that include people, materials, technology, and infrastructure in public and private partnership.
Have at it.
Sunday, September 25, 2016
How to Select an American President: Virtual Dead Heat
How to Select an American President: Virtual Dead Heat: The Washington Post reports today that on the eve of the presidential debate between Trump and Clinton that it is a dead heat. Clinton is u...
Virtual Dead Heat
The Washington Post reports today that on the eve of the presidential debate between Trump and Clinton that it is a dead heat. Clinton is up by 2 points. However, that is within the margin of error, making it even.
In my soon to be released book, How to Select an American President by James George with James Rodger (c) 2106 Archway Publishing, using a suggested scoring method to evaluate candidate resumes, Clinton and Trump scored equally for different reasons. The government knowledge and experience edge goes to Clinton. The private enterprise experience edge goes to Trump. The "outsider" advantage goes to Trump. The "insider" advantage goes to Clinton.
Without considering their presidential manifestos, and based on abilities alone, it's a wash.
Now, also a part of the suggested method includes medical and mental health evaluations from certified sources. The medical health reports are in. The mental health reports are incomplete.
Nothing can be done about the fact that these two candidates are older than the preferred age 57-58 for qualified candidates to increase the probability that they can complete two terms while remaining in good health.
Turning to the vastly more complex question, what are these candidates' presidential manifestos? How do their individual manifestos compare with their parties' platforms?
Party platforms have been hastily prepared, largely behind the scenes, and without sufficient vetting by the voter public. Presidential manifestos evolve at the last minute in fits and spurts. Neither of these circumstances serves the voter public.
Both political parties and their candidates are responsible for deficiencies that plague the American political system.
It might be wonderful if Monday's "dead heat" were from a race between two superb entries. It is not.
In my soon to be released book, How to Select an American President by James George with James Rodger (c) 2106 Archway Publishing, using a suggested scoring method to evaluate candidate resumes, Clinton and Trump scored equally for different reasons. The government knowledge and experience edge goes to Clinton. The private enterprise experience edge goes to Trump. The "outsider" advantage goes to Trump. The "insider" advantage goes to Clinton.
Without considering their presidential manifestos, and based on abilities alone, it's a wash.
Now, also a part of the suggested method includes medical and mental health evaluations from certified sources. The medical health reports are in. The mental health reports are incomplete.
Nothing can be done about the fact that these two candidates are older than the preferred age 57-58 for qualified candidates to increase the probability that they can complete two terms while remaining in good health.
Turning to the vastly more complex question, what are these candidates' presidential manifestos? How do their individual manifestos compare with their parties' platforms?
Party platforms have been hastily prepared, largely behind the scenes, and without sufficient vetting by the voter public. Presidential manifestos evolve at the last minute in fits and spurts. Neither of these circumstances serves the voter public.
Both political parties and their candidates are responsible for deficiencies that plague the American political system.
It might be wonderful if Monday's "dead heat" were from a race between two superb entries. It is not.
Nip and paw
Tuesday, September 20, 2016
How to Select an American President: Population Management Policy
How to Select an American President: Population Management Policy: "Immigration" is a subset of a larger "population management" policy issue. Terrorist acts ignite attention to such thi...
Population Management Policy
"Immigration" is a subset of a larger "population management" policy issue. Terrorist acts ignite attention to such things as:
- Homeland security
- Law enforcement
- Immigration policy
- Population management policy
Answering the questions:
- What is the optimal size of the U.S. population?
- What is the optimal demographic mix?
- What is the optimal skill, knowledge, and experience inventory?
- What is the optimal trajectory?
- What is the optimal immigration size and rate?
- What is the nation's capacity to absorb, nurture, and utilize immigrant populations?
First, consider that immigration throughout the world is fueled by displaced persons. That is, wars and impoverishment put people on the move as they seek economic sustainability.
The United States is a signatory to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights as displayed below. The United Nations and the signatories have an obligation to address people who are displaced and made to flee their homeland. That does not mean that other nation must permanently accept migrants. It may mean that member states must create safe havens in the homelands from which people are fleeing. That requires both military and economic intervention.
Military intervention is needed to establish safe havens and to secure them by creating economically sustainable communities. In some instances, those actions will require the establishment of new governance as in "nation-building."
Therefore, add "foreign policy" to the list above because they are all integrated. The chances are that Hillary Clinton understands this complexity. Equally, Donald Trump doesn't get it. His spewing of simplistic ideas plays to the masses, but it won't get the job done in the complex world.
Immediately, Mrs. Clinton should agree with Donald Trump that there must be "extreme vetting." At the same time, the UN initiative calls for the U.S. and member states to absorb more immigrants. That is our obligation in the world.
To accommodate the number of immigrants from Syria, for instance, that Obama advocates, will require Congress to increase the vetting and immigrant management resources. Congress can't back away from the responsibility, nor can Obama or the next President expect the system to absorb more immigrants without beefing up the system.
Homeland Security and Law Enforcement are performing well, yet they should be asked what additional resources and support they need to identify and disrupt lone wolfs and domestic terrorists. Surely, there must be more screening, monitoring, and profiling.
As a reminder to Donald Trump, here are the rules of the road.
Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
"Article 1.
All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights. They are endowed with reason and conscience and should act towards one another in a spirit of brotherhood.
Article 2.
Everyone is entitled to all the rights and freedoms set forth in this Declaration, without distinction of any kind, such as race, colour, sex, language, religion, political or other opinion, national or social origin, property, birth or other status. Furthermore, no distinction shall be made on the basis of the political, jurisdictional or international status of the country or territory to which a person belongs, whether it be independent, trust, non-self-governing or under any other limitation of sovereignty.
Article 3.
Everyone has the right to life, liberty and security of person.
Article 4.
No one shall be held in slavery or servitude; slavery and the slave trade shall be prohibited in all their forms.
Article 5.
No one shall be subjected to torture or to cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment.
Article 6.
Everyone has the right to recognition everywhere as a person before the law.
Article 7.
All are equal before the law and are entitled without any discrimination to equal protection of the law. All are entitled to equal protection against any discrimination in violation of this Declaration and against any incitement to such discrimination.
Article 8.
Everyone has the right to an effective remedy by the competent national tribunals for acts violating the fundamental rights granted him by the constitution or by law.
Article 9.
No one shall be subjected to arbitrary arrest, detention or exile.
Article 10.
Everyone is entitled in full equality to a fair and public hearing by an independent and impartial tribunal, in the determination of his rights and obligations and of any criminal charge against him.
Article 11.
(1) Everyone charged with a penal offence has the right to be presumed innocent until proved guilty according to law in a public trial at which he has had all the guarantees necessary for his defence.
(2) No one shall be held guilty of any penal offence on account of any act or omission which did not constitute a penal offence, under national or international law, at the time when it was committed. Nor shall a heavier penalty be imposed than the one that was applicable at the time the penal offence was committed.
Article 12.
No one shall be subjected to arbitrary interference with his privacy, family, home or correspondence, nor to attacks upon his honour and reputation. Everyone has the right to the protection of the law against such interference or attacks.
Article 13.
(1) Everyone has the right to freedom of movement and residence within the borders of each state.
(2) Everyone has the right to leave any country, including his own, and to return to his country.
Article 14.
(1) Everyone has the right to seek and to enjoy in other countries asylum from persecution.
(2) This right may not be invoked in the case of prosecutions genuinely arising from non-political crimes or from acts contrary to the purposes and principles of the United Nations.
Article 15.
(1) Everyone has the right to a nationality.
(2) No one shall be arbitrarily deprived of his nationality nor denied the right to change his nationality.
Article 16.
(1) Men and women of full age, without any limitation due to race, nationality or religion, have the right to marry and to found a family. They are entitled to equal rights as to marriage, during marriage and at its dissolution.
(2) Marriage shall be entered into only with the free and full consent of the intending spouses.
(3) The family is the natural and fundamental group unit of society and is entitled to protection by society and the State.
Article 17.
(1) Everyone has the right to own property alone as well as in association with others.
(2) No one shall be arbitrarily deprived of his property.
Article 18.
Everyone has the right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion; this right includes freedom to change his religion or belief, and freedom, either alone or in community with others and in public or private, to manifest his religion or belief in teaching, practice, worship and observance.
Article 19.
Everyone has the right to freedom of opinion and expression; this right includes freedom to hold opinions without interference and to seek, receive and impart information and ideas through any media and regardless of frontiers.
Article 20.
(1) Everyone has the right to freedom of peaceful assembly and association.
(2) No one may be compelled to belong to an association.
Article 21.
(1) Everyone has the right to take part in the government of his country, directly or through freely chosen representatives.
(2) Everyone has the right of equal access to public service in his country.
(3) The will of the people shall be the basis of the authority of government; this will shall be expressed in periodic and genuine elections which shall be by universal and equal suffrage and shall be held by secret vote or by equivalent free voting procedures.
Article 22.
Everyone, as a member of society, has the right to social security and is entitled to realization, through national effort and international co-operation and in accordance with the organization and resources of each State, of the economic, social and cultural rights indispensable for his dignity and the free development of his personality.
Article 23.
(1) Everyone has the right to work, to free choice of employment, to just and favourable conditions of work and to protection against unemployment.
(2) Everyone, without any discrimination, has the right to equal pay for equal work.
(3) Everyone who works has the right to just and favourable remuneration ensuring for himself and his family an existence worthy of human dignity, and supplemented, if necessary, by other means of social protection.
(4) Everyone has the right to form and to join trade unions for the protection of his interests.
Article 24.
Everyone has the right to rest and leisure, including reasonable limitation of working hours and periodic holidays with pay.
Article 25.
(1) Everyone has the right to a standard of living adequate for the health and well-being of himself and of his family, including food, clothing, housing and medical care and necessary social services, and the right to security in the event of unemployment, sickness, disability, widowhood, old age or other lack of livelihood in circumstances beyond his control.
(2) Motherhood and childhood are entitled to special care and assistance. All children, whether born in or out of wedlock, shall enjoy the same social protection.
Article 26.
(1) Everyone has the right to education. Education shall be free, at least in the elementary and fundamental stages. Elementary education shall be compulsory. Technical and professional education shall be made generally available and higher education shall be equally accessible to all on the basis of merit.
(2) Education shall be directed to the full development of the human personality and to the strengthening of respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms. It shall promote understanding, tolerance and friendship among all nations, racial or religious groups, and shall further the activities of the United Nations for the maintenance of peace.
(3) Parents have a prior right to choose the kind of education that shall be given to their children.
Article 27.
(1) Everyone has the right freely to participate in the cultural life of the community, to enjoy the arts and to share in scientific advancement and its benefits.
(2) Everyone has the right to the protection of the moral and material interests resulting from any scientific, literary or artistic production of which he is the author.
Article 28.
Everyone is entitled to a social and international order in which the rights and freedoms set forth in this Declaration can be fully realized.
Article 29.
(1) Everyone has duties to the community in which alone the free and full development of his personality is possible.
(2) In the exercise of his rights and freedoms, everyone shall be subject only to such limitations as are determined by law solely for the purpose of securing due recognition and respect for the rights and freedoms of others and of meeting the just requirements of morality, public order and the general welfare in a democratic society.
(3) These rights and freedoms may in no case be exercised contrary to the purposes and principles of the United Nations.
Article 30.
Nothing in this Declaration may be interpreted as implying for any State, group or person any right to engage in any activity or to perform any act aimed at the destruction of any of the rights and freedoms set forth herein.
“Hillary Clinton wants to increase what [Obama has] let in,” Trump said Monday on Fox News. “He’s let in thousands and thousands of people. They don’t know — they can’t be properly vetted, there’s no way. Our leaders are — I don’t even say weak, I say stupid.”Calls for tighter curbs on immigration also came from a former Trump rival in Congress.
“Congress should act to prevent Americans who have travelled abroad for training from returning here, and to stop the flow of refugees from hotbeds of terrorism in the Middle East that President Obama is determined to bring to our country,” Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas), a former presidential candidate, said Monday.
The U.S. is accepting 10,000 refugees from Syria, and Obama wants the nation to accept 110,000 refugees from around the world next year.
That is a 30 percent increase from the total number the U.S. welcomed this year.
Not since World War II has the world been forced to grapple with a refugee crisis on this scale; more than 65 million people have been driven from their homes, and 21 million have crossed international borders.
The pressure to find a place for refugees is coinciding with deep fears in the United States over immigrants from the Middle East.
Trump called for a ban on Muslims entering the United States last fall, a position for which he was criticized but that appeared to help him in the Republican primary.
Hillary Clinton has called for accepting 65,000 Syrian refugees next year, and on Tuesday said she has “long been an advocate for tough vetting.”
But the Democratic nominee said the people fleeing violence in Syria are not the same kind of people who attacked the country on Sept. 11, 2001.
http://thehill.com/homenews/administration/296739-ny-attack-hangs-over-obama-push-for-action-on-refugees
Syrian Immigrants
Monday, September 19, 2016
How to Select an American President: 'Extreme vetting' and the 'golden door'
How to Select an American President: 'Extreme vetting' and the 'golden door': There are two very different reactions to terrorism and the root causes in the world today. At the low level, there is a call by Presidentia...
'Extreme vetting' and the 'golden door'
There are two very different reactions to terrorism and the root causes in the world today. At the low level, there is a call by Presidential nominee Donald Trump for what he calls, "extreme vetting." He also says that he has a "secret plan" to combat ISIS, for instance.
First of all, the immigration and naturalization service has stepped up vetting of immigrants over the years in response to the real and present threats from immigrants from Middle Eastern countries. Why? It is because many terrorists lie within the community of peaceful Muslims where radicalized Muslims sometimes evolve to becoming terrorists. Understanding the motivation by terrorists is necessary to addressing the cause. Often, it is the result of people feeling repressed, economically and socially. They may have extreme ideas about their religion that doesn't fit in a pluralistic democratic republic such as ours.
For law enforcement and national security professionals, and for citizens, securing the nation against this threat is paramount.
That necessity drives policymakers from the top down to strengthen the vetting of immigrants based on consideration from their host countries and the profile of the immigrants' propensity for committing terrorism. That is what Donald Trump calls extreme vetting. That is not new as it exists today.
On the world stage at the United Nations, Helen Clark, the Administrator, United Nations Development Programme had this to say.
Donald Trump is talking loudly with a desire to wield a big stick. Hillary Clinton is speaking calmly while seeking to implement sound policy that will make a difference.
The world refugee crisis breeds terrorism that can migrate to the free world.
First of all, the immigration and naturalization service has stepped up vetting of immigrants over the years in response to the real and present threats from immigrants from Middle Eastern countries. Why? It is because many terrorists lie within the community of peaceful Muslims where radicalized Muslims sometimes evolve to becoming terrorists. Understanding the motivation by terrorists is necessary to addressing the cause. Often, it is the result of people feeling repressed, economically and socially. They may have extreme ideas about their religion that doesn't fit in a pluralistic democratic republic such as ours.
For law enforcement and national security professionals, and for citizens, securing the nation against this threat is paramount.
That necessity drives policymakers from the top down to strengthen the vetting of immigrants based on consideration from their host countries and the profile of the immigrants' propensity for committing terrorism. That is what Donald Trump calls extreme vetting. That is not new as it exists today.
On the world stage at the United Nations, Helen Clark, the Administrator, United Nations Development Programme had this to say.
"What could be done to prevent displacement crises in future?
First, the international community should place conflict prevention and mediation at the center of international peace and security efforts. Early warning and response systems are needed for when tensions emerge and to foster reconciliation.
Second, international support is needed to strengthen good governance and the rule of law and to address structural inequalities. Promoting inclusive economic growth and sustainable livelihoods is critical for building peaceful and inclusive societies. These are long-term investments that are also critical structural prevention efforts.
Third, development actors can assist governments to improve their capacity for data collection and analysis on the root causes of displacement caused by poverty and lack of opportunity, to help design sustainable responses.
The organization I head, the United Nations Development Program, will play its part. We provide support for host communities and help countries anticipate and prevent future crises. We promote inclusive and accountable institutions which can improve social cohesion, and drive inclusive development. We work to tackle inequalities and to improve access to justice and to basic services like education and health."
Huffington PostWhat American voters should expect from Presidential candidates is not a knee-jerk reaction, but instead, consideration for policies that make a true difference in addressing a crisis that is global in proportion.
Donald Trump is talking loudly with a desire to wield a big stick. Hillary Clinton is speaking calmly while seeking to implement sound policy that will make a difference.
The world refugee crisis breeds terrorism that can migrate to the free world.
"Give me your tired, your poor,
Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free,
The wretched refuse of your teeming shore.
Send these, the homeless, tempest-tost to me,
I lift my lamp beside the golden door!"
Refugee Crisis
Statue of Liberty
Policing the political parties
During the next year, once Election 2016 is behind us, I am initiating an effort to audit the performance of the two principal political parties in the U.S. for the purpose of identifying and defining performance problems from which corrective action may begin. As a political analyst, I will solicit the assistance of political party leaders and representative members in accomplishing this. I don't expect the offer of engagement to be taken positively, yet who knows?
This morning, I searched for articles about political parties as part of ongoing research. One article popped to the forefront. As always, I checked to determine the authors. In this instance, the authoring and posting organization turned out to be "Western Journalism." What and who is that?
Western Journalism cleverly seeks to hide its identity, keeping their ownership and leadership concealed. Why? Because they want to pretend that, they are a legitimate news organization.
In fact, Western Journalism is owned by "Liftable Media Inc." What is that? In a post on another "conservative" blog called "RedState," a story reads as follows:
Back to the story lead that I have buried, that is, to understand political parties in America:
Writer, KrisAnne Hall, continues by posing questions:
The conclusions from this brief foray into the land of conservatism is this:
This morning, I searched for articles about political parties as part of ongoing research. One article popped to the forefront. As always, I checked to determine the authors. In this instance, the authoring and posting organization turned out to be "Western Journalism." What and who is that?
Western Journalism cleverly seeks to hide its identity, keeping their ownership and leadership concealed. Why? Because they want to pretend that, they are a legitimate news organization.
In fact, Western Journalism is owned by "Liftable Media Inc." What is that? In a post on another "conservative" blog called "RedState," a story reads as follows:
"Mike Huckabee, Herman Cain Sell Out To Clickbait Factory Liftable Media Inc.
DIARY / SOUTHERNCONSTITUTIONALIST // Posted at 12:23 pm on March 15, 2016 by southernconstitutionalist
If you follow Herman Cain on Facebook, and more recently, Mike Huckabee, you will notice a pattern in their posts.
Nearly all of the articles they post come from sites such as Tea Party News Network (TPNN), Conservative Tribune and Western Journalism. All three are owned by Liftable Media Inc.
Who is Liftable Media?
"Patrick Brown, the CEO of Liftable Media Inc, announced this morning the purchase of TPNN. Brown said, “We are proud to welcome the TPNN brand into our stable of digital media properties. Growing to become the voice of the Tea Party Movement, TPNN has given active citizens nationwide an opportunity to bypass the gatekeepers of the mainstream media. We plan to expand on this success and reach even more Americans in 2016 and beyond.”
"Liftable Media is a top 100 digital network according to Quantcast.com. Founded in September of 2014 by the then 26-year-old Patrick Brown with the social story website Lifitable.com, Liftable Media has grown through the purchase of numerous other social news websites. Liftable purchased Thoughtfulwomen.org and WesternJournalism.com in 2014, and ConservativeTribune.com in the spring of 2015."
http://www.redstate.com/diary/southernconstitutionalist/2016/03/15/mike-huckabee-herman-cain-sell-out-to-clickbait-factory-liftable-media-inc./
Back to the story lead that I have buried, that is, to understand political parties in America:
"The Shocking Truth About Political Parties
We seem to be very confused on this fact quite regularly...
by KrisAnne Hall September 7, 2015, at 12:42pm
Parties are not government. We seem to be very confused on this fact quite regularly. But knowing this is essential to keeping the proper perspective on elections.
RNC Chairman Reince Priebus is demanding that the GOP presidential candidates sign an oath of loyalty. People can see right through this and know exactly WHY the RNC is doing this now. The members of the RNC can righteously be upset at the hypocrisy of their leadership. HOWEVER…
Members of the Republican Party have no right to be upset about this demand by their leadership. The Republican Party is not government. The Republican Party is a private corporate club. They are not required to be “open minded.” As a matter of fact, the entire purpose of a private corporate club is that they CAN discriminate based upon their platform."
Western Journalism
Writer, KrisAnne Hall, continues by posing questions:
"Has The Republican Party Drifted To The Left?Her article continues by explaining: "It is well within the rights and the powers of the private corporate club called the Republican Party to require their members to sign an oath of loyalty. It is well within the rights and the powers of the private corporate club called the Republican Party to require their members to sign a “non-compete clause.” People cannot be outraged by that; they cannot even be surprised by that."
Is Trump Reaganesque?"
The conclusions from this brief foray into the land of conservatism is this:
- Political parties are private clubs.
- Conservatives are cannibals.
- Political parties are not the government.
"Brains, brains, brains...must find some"
Image from http://downwithtyranny.blogspot.com
Image from http://downwithtyranny.blogspot.com
How to Select an American President: 'Loathing the nominee'
How to Select an American President: 'Loathing the nominee': To many, Hillary Clinton is like the slow, deliberate, yet steady tortoise in a race against the speedy "hair." One thing that Cli...
'Loathing the nominee'
To many, Hillary Clinton is like the slow, deliberate, yet steady tortoise in a race against the speedy "hair." One thing that Clinton might bank on is that many Republicans will not vote for their nominee. They won't show up, or if they do, they simply won't push the button for the GOP candidate. Some will vote for Hillary Clinton. The crossovers and no- votes will dampen the effect of people tossing their votes away to third-party candidates that have proven to be most unknowledgeable and even more, unfit.
The loathing barometer will likely increase between now and the welcomed end to this election cycle. Why? Because Donald Trump will follow his propensity to self-destruct by doing what he does, inciting and inflaming while undermining his credibility as a world leader.
The loathing barometer will likely increase between now and the welcomed end to this election cycle. Why? Because Donald Trump will follow his propensity to self-destruct by doing what he does, inciting and inflaming while undermining his credibility as a world leader.
"Republican friendships shatter over Trump
By Jonathan Swan - 09/19/16 06:00 AM EDT
The fallout was brutal.
Christie got publicly trashed by the GOP establishment. His endorsement was called “disgusting” by former George W. Bush aide Tony Fratto. Former Mitt Romney adviser Ryan Williams accused Christie of “kissing Donald Trump’s boots.”
The governor was excoriated in a public letter by his former finance co-chair Meg Whitman, who now supports Hillary Clinton, and ridiculed on Twitter for alleged indignities including fetching Trump’s McDonald’s order. (Christie disputes the McDonald’s story.)
“There aren’t a lot of people with the courage to go up to his face,” DuHaime said of the attacks on Christie. “A lot of the vitriol has come from people who are extraordinarily brave on Twitter.”
Outside the professional political class, however, Christie gets treated warmly, according to DuHaime.
That contrast between Beltway iciness and a warm reception in ‘real America’ is an experience commonly described by Trump-backers in the party."
http://thehill.com/homenews/campaign/296331-republican-friendships-shatter-over-trump
"I love me. I will blow your mind."
Sunday, September 18, 2016
How to Select an American President: Trump calls Robert Gates a clown
How to Select an American President: Trump calls Robert Gates a clown: Welcome to the "Clown Lounge." It is the place for Republican presidential nominees who are so independent that they can't st...
Trump calls Robert Gates a clown
Welcome to the "Clown Lounge." It is the place for Republican presidential nominees who are so independent that they can't stand together. Donald Trump, the incendiary nominee, is like a pressure cooker bomb that is intended to explode and take as many innocent victims as he can with him. What is up with that?
His latest attack is against Robert Gates. Look at Robert Gates' resume:
"Bob Gates
24th Chancellor of the College of William and Mary
Incumbent Assumed office
February 3, 2012
35th President of the Boy Scouts of America
In office May 22, 2014 – May 26, 2016
22nd United States Secretary of Defense
In office December 18, 2006 – July 1, 2011
President George W. Bush
Barack Obama
Succeeded by Leon Panetta
22nd President of Texas A&M University
In office August 1, 2002 – December 16, 2006
15th Director of Central Intelligence
In office November 6, 1991 – January 20, 1993
President George H. W. Bush
Deputy National Security Advisor
In office March 20, 1989 – November 6, 1991
President George H. W. Bush
16th Deputy Director of Central Intelligence
In office April 18, 1986 – March 20, 1989
President Ronald Reagan
George H. W. Bush
Personal details
Born Robert Michael Gates
September 25, 1943 (age 72)
Wichita, Kansas, U.S.
Political party Republican[1]
Spouse(s) Becky Gates
Alma mater College of William and Mary
Indiana University, Bloomington
Georgetown University"
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Robert_Gates
Robert Gates is a true American statesman. In addition to being a senior executive leading the most important departments in American government, he also served in the US Air Force as an officer.
Gates is a Republican who also served in the Obama administration. Why? Because he is so well qualified and experienced.
Therefore, when Donald Trump took a cheap shot at Robert Gates, that was way too far as was Trump's insinuating that some of his radical unAmerican followers assassinate Hillary Clinton.
The clown in the lounge is Donald Trump, and he is a disgrace to core American values and a threat to our Democratic Republic. Trump is public enemy number 1.
"Donald Trump took aim again at former Secretary of Defense Robert Gates at a Colorado rally today, one day after Gates slammed the GOP presidential hopeful in a scathing Wall Street Journal op-ed.
"We had a clown today, an absolute clown, Robert Gates. He’s supposed to be an expert, he’s been there forever,” Trump told supporters at a rally at Colorado Springs' JetCenters of Colorado. "He speaks badly about everything. Never met the guy, never saw him. I saw him on television, didn’t like him. The end result is look where we are. He's a mess. Okay? He's a mess."
In the Wall Street Journal piece, Gates wrote that Trump is "beyond repair" and unsuited to be Commander-in-Chief."
http://abcnews.go.com/Politics/donald-trump-calls-robert-gates-clown-doesnt-critics/story?id=42167404
Memecrunch.com
Friday, September 16, 2016
How to Select an American President: Pence versus Kaine: How is their health?
How to Select an American President: Pence versus Kaine: How is their health?: It is amusing how the press and voters got around to considering presidential candidates' health now that we are down to the wire, and t...
Pence versus Kaine: How is their health?
It is amusing how the press and voters got around to considering presidential candidates' health now that we are down to the wire, and there is no time for replacement, should that be necessary. First of all, both Clinton and Trump are about in the same shape.
In my book, How to Select an American President by James George with James Rodger (c) 2016 Archway Publishing (to be released soon), the mental and physical health of candidates is an important consideration because voters should expect them to endure two full terms in office that are an 8-year duration.
Here is something to consider that I did not address in the book, women live longer and tend to be in better shape than men.
In the book, I suggest examining different life cycle scenarios to see how long it takes for genius-level people to produce extraordinary results that are worthy of consideration in qualifying for becoming presidential candidates.
Most exceptional people will consume about 57 years of their life racking up superior results before considering public office. At that point, a 57-year-old candidate would be ready for an 8-year sprint, departing office at a spry 65 years.
Candidates entering the highest office at 69-70 years old will be 77-78 years old upon exiting. Now, in modern times, men and women live longer and may be productive longer. However, that depends on upon the rigorous requirements of the job.
Therefore, who are the backup candidates?
Vice Presidents should have been selected by We the People with the same deliberate consideration as given to Presidential candidates. Yet, VPs are a last minute wonder.
Mike Pence and Tim Kaine are about the same age at 57 and 58. Kaine has far more experience and a law degree from Harvard. Pence is trained in the law but has less public experience as he was a talk show host instead. Look at their resumes on wiki.
Who knows about their health?
In my book, How to Select an American President by James George with James Rodger (c) 2016 Archway Publishing (to be released soon), the mental and physical health of candidates is an important consideration because voters should expect them to endure two full terms in office that are an 8-year duration.
Here is something to consider that I did not address in the book, women live longer and tend to be in better shape than men.
In the book, I suggest examining different life cycle scenarios to see how long it takes for genius-level people to produce extraordinary results that are worthy of consideration in qualifying for becoming presidential candidates.
- How long were they earning relevant academic credentials?
- How long did they serve in the U.S. military, if they did?
- What did they invent and create, when, and what was the societal impact on the economy, society, and environment?
Most exceptional people will consume about 57 years of their life racking up superior results before considering public office. At that point, a 57-year-old candidate would be ready for an 8-year sprint, departing office at a spry 65 years.
Candidates entering the highest office at 69-70 years old will be 77-78 years old upon exiting. Now, in modern times, men and women live longer and may be productive longer. However, that depends on upon the rigorous requirements of the job.
Therefore, who are the backup candidates?
Vice Presidents should have been selected by We the People with the same deliberate consideration as given to Presidential candidates. Yet, VPs are a last minute wonder.
Mike Pence and Tim Kaine are about the same age at 57 and 58. Kaine has far more experience and a law degree from Harvard. Pence is trained in the law but has less public experience as he was a talk show host instead. Look at their resumes on wiki.
Who knows about their health?
"So why do women live longer than men? One idea is that men drive themselves to an early grave with all the hardship and stress of their working lives. If this were so, however, then in these days of greater gender equality, you might expect the mortality gap would vanish or at least diminish. Yet there is little evidence that this is happening. Women today still outlive men by about as much as their stay-at-home mothers outlived their office-going fathers a generation ago. Furthermore, who truly believes that men’s work lives back then were so much more damaging to their health than women’s home lives? Just think about the stresses and strains that have always existed in the traditional roles of women: a woman’s life in a typical household can be just as hard as a man’s. Indeed, statistically speaking, men get a much better deal out of marriage than their wives—married men tend to live many years longer than single men, whereas married women live only a little bit longer than single women. So who actually has the easier life?"
Scientific American
Pence and Kaine, the backups
Thursday, September 15, 2016
How to Select an American President: Saying that it's the oligarch's fault is too easy
How to Select an American President: Saying that it's the oligarch's fault is too easy: Jimmy Carter wasn't the first to say that America has become an oligarchy. There are countless articles on the subject going back more t...
Saying that it's the oligarchs' fault is too easy
Jimmy Carter wasn't the first to say that America has become an oligarchy. There are countless articles on the subject going back more than ten years. What it means is that a theoretical handful of influential persons "control" the American political system.
To this analyst, that is too simplistic. The American political system is one gigantic accident, guided by Constitutional rules and enabled by a public whose intelligence is watered down by the masses. That is as it should be in a pluralistic Democratic society.
If all of the many entities in society play by the rules of fairness and equality as intended, that means that the system is self-regulating albeit constrained by aggregate abilities and capacity.
The nation would be well-advised to work to make even the lowest persons in the hierarchy as intelligent and able as it can because that way the average performance will become optimized. When there is significant economic disparity and inequality, the overall result is considerably less than is possible.
When it appears to many that the American political system is crumbling because the government isn't functioning well and its leaders don't seem to be exceptional, that is time to worry. It is also time to fix it. Some will simply say that it is too hard and that the oligarchs have won.
There might be 400 oligarchs out there, and my bet is that half of them are Democrats, and half are Republicans. They truly can't win much with those numbers, even with a lot of power.
If things go south again, they won't benefit much. In fact, unless they are bankers, they stand to lose much more.
To this analyst, that is too simplistic. The American political system is one gigantic accident, guided by Constitutional rules and enabled by a public whose intelligence is watered down by the masses. That is as it should be in a pluralistic Democratic society.
If all of the many entities in society play by the rules of fairness and equality as intended, that means that the system is self-regulating albeit constrained by aggregate abilities and capacity.
The nation would be well-advised to work to make even the lowest persons in the hierarchy as intelligent and able as it can because that way the average performance will become optimized. When there is significant economic disparity and inequality, the overall result is considerably less than is possible.
When it appears to many that the American political system is crumbling because the government isn't functioning well and its leaders don't seem to be exceptional, that is time to worry. It is also time to fix it. Some will simply say that it is too hard and that the oligarchs have won.
There might be 400 oligarchs out there, and my bet is that half of them are Democrats, and half are Republicans. They truly can't win much with those numbers, even with a lot of power.
If things go south again, they won't benefit much. In fact, unless they are bankers, they stand to lose much more.
How to Select an American President: Don't dispair, fickle voters will self-correct
How to Select an American President: Don't dispair, fickle voters will self-correct: We hope. If history reveals anything about American politics, it is that it is volatile and imperfect. The American political system is se...
Don't dispair, fickle voters will self-correct
We hope.
If history reveals anything about American politics, it is that it is volatile and imperfect. The American political system is self-correcting in iterations. That is something that Barack Obama often says as if he is reminding himself of that truism. Following the wisdom of George Washington, President Obama had this to say:
As a people, we don't quit. Many citizens are angry with Congressional incumbents. They are mad at what I call, professional politicians. "Professional politician" is someone who starts out in life with the singular objective to secure an elected office.
If you look at the resumes of those incumbents in Congress today, you may discover that 80% are those who fit the definition. They accomplished nothing before being elected, and they didn't accomplish much after that.
American voters are well advised to remove them. However, we have done nothing to improve the process that produces candidates for public office. Our political parties have failed us, and unqualified, and most imperfect candidates continue to pursue political positions without voters saying no.
It is too late in Election 2016 to make a difference in Congress. While Donald Trump is not a professional politician, he is not qualified and suitable for the office of president either.
By education and experience, Hillary Clinton is a better choice. That does not mean that she is a good example. It just means that she is as good as it gets at this point.
If We the People screw up again as we have for many election cycles, we will once again produce an unworkable government. There are real consequences to our mistakes as we nearly had a financial collapse with George W. Bush. We have suffered greatly as a nation from a dysfunctional government that pits Congress against the President. When government belongs to us as our instrument to get things done, the onus for staffing a competent and functional government is on us.
Sometimes we are impulsive and fickle. That behavior hurts, therefore, we had better pay attention to what we are doing.
If history reveals anything about American politics, it is that it is volatile and imperfect. The American political system is self-correcting in iterations. That is something that Barack Obama often says as if he is reminding himself of that truism. Following the wisdom of George Washington, President Obama had this to say:
"Put nation's interests before party
It is our unfinished task to restore the basic bargain that built this country--the idea that if you work hard and meet your responsibilities, you can get ahead, no matter where you come from, what you look like, or who you love.
It is our unfinished task to make sure that this government works on behalf of the many, and not just a few; that it encourages free enterprise, rewards individual initiative, and opens the doors of opportunity to every child across this great nation.
The American people don't expect the government to solve every problem. They don't expect those of us in this chamber to agree on every issue. But they do expect us to put the nation's interests before party. They do expect us to forge reasonable compromise where we can. For they know that America moves forward only when we do so together; and that the responsibility of improving this union remains the task of us all."
Barack Obama
As a people, we don't quit. Many citizens are angry with Congressional incumbents. They are mad at what I call, professional politicians. "Professional politician" is someone who starts out in life with the singular objective to secure an elected office.
If you look at the resumes of those incumbents in Congress today, you may discover that 80% are those who fit the definition. They accomplished nothing before being elected, and they didn't accomplish much after that.
American voters are well advised to remove them. However, we have done nothing to improve the process that produces candidates for public office. Our political parties have failed us, and unqualified, and most imperfect candidates continue to pursue political positions without voters saying no.
It is too late in Election 2016 to make a difference in Congress. While Donald Trump is not a professional politician, he is not qualified and suitable for the office of president either.
By education and experience, Hillary Clinton is a better choice. That does not mean that she is a good example. It just means that she is as good as it gets at this point.
If We the People screw up again as we have for many election cycles, we will once again produce an unworkable government. There are real consequences to our mistakes as we nearly had a financial collapse with George W. Bush. We have suffered greatly as a nation from a dysfunctional government that pits Congress against the President. When government belongs to us as our instrument to get things done, the onus for staffing a competent and functional government is on us.
Sometimes we are impulsive and fickle. That behavior hurts, therefore, we had better pay attention to what we are doing.
The movie title that describes Election 2016
How to Select an American President: Medical condition of presidential candidates
How to Select an American President: Medical condition of presidential candidates: Now that the doctors' reports are published by both Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton, what have we learned? Both are apparently in good ...
Medical condition of presidential candidates
Now that the doctors' reports are published by both Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton, what have we learned? Both are apparently in good condition for their ages and all things appear to be equal.
However, that is not the end of the story for this analyst who declares that the medical condition of presidential candidates is vital. In fact, what voters should have the right to include the following:
1. Access to certifiable IQ tests
2. Access to certifiable medical records that report both the physical and mental conditions of patients
Among the reasons why this information is vital to include the following:
1. Electing a president is an investment of scarce resources for an incumbent that can serve for two four-year terms. Serving the maximum time in office ensures optimal return on the cost of the election.
2. Electing incumbents that can serve out the maximum terms provides continuity in government with minimal risk which is good for government performance, efficiency, and the economy.
According to the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission:
Given the EEOC's legal constraints:
Voters can ask candidates if they are up to performing the job for the duration of 2 terms.
We the employers can ask a presidential candidate "whether they can perform the job and how they would perform the job. The law allows an employer to condition a job offer on the applicant answering certain medical questions or successfully passing a medical exam, but only if all new employees in the same job have to answer the questions or take the exam."
Congress may have to tighten requirements for applicants to elected offices for clarification. We the voter-employers should not be stuck with candidates who are unlikely to be able to serve out the maximum terms in office.
This topic requires congressional and legal review.
However, that is not the end of the story for this analyst who declares that the medical condition of presidential candidates is vital. In fact, what voters should have the right to include the following:
1. Access to certifiable IQ tests
2. Access to certifiable medical records that report both the physical and mental conditions of patients
Among the reasons why this information is vital to include the following:
1. Electing a president is an investment of scarce resources for an incumbent that can serve for two four-year terms. Serving the maximum time in office ensures optimal return on the cost of the election.
2. Electing incumbents that can serve out the maximum terms provides continuity in government with minimal risk which is good for government performance, efficiency, and the economy.
According to the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission:
"Pre-Employment Inquiries and Medical Questions & Examinations
The ADA places restrictions on employers when it comes to asking job applicants to answer medical questions, take a medical exam, or identify a disability.
An employer may not ask a job applicant, for example, if he or she has a disability (or about the nature of an obvious disability). An employer also may not ask a job applicant to answer medical questions or take a medical exam before making a job offer.
An employer may ask a job applicant whether they can perform the job and how they would perform the job. The law allows an employer to condition a job offer on the applicant answering certain medical questions or successfully passing a medical exam, but only if all new employees in the same job have to answer the questions or take the exam.
Once a person is hired and has started work, an employer generally can only ask medical questions or require a medical exam if the employer needs medical documentation to support an employee’s request for an accommodation or if the employer has reason to believe an employee would not be able to perform a job successfully or safely because of a medical condition.
The law also requires that the employers keep all medical records and information confidential and in separate medical files."
https://www.eeoc.gov/laws/practices/inquiries_medical.cfm
Given the EEOC's legal constraints:
Voters can ask candidates if they are up to performing the job for the duration of 2 terms.
We the employers can ask a presidential candidate "whether they can perform the job and how they would perform the job. The law allows an employer to condition a job offer on the applicant answering certain medical questions or successfully passing a medical exam, but only if all new employees in the same job have to answer the questions or take the exam."
Congress may have to tighten requirements for applicants to elected offices for clarification. We the voter-employers should not be stuck with candidates who are unlikely to be able to serve out the maximum terms in office.
This topic requires congressional and legal review.
Donald Trump's medical report
Hillary Clinton's medical report
How to Select an American President: Reasons why Clinton struggles in Ohio and Florida
How to Select an American President: Reasons why Clinton struggles in Ohio and Florida: There are two reasons why Clinton's poll numbers are down in Ohio and Florida against Donald Trump: 1. Clinton and surrogates have no ...
Reasons why Clinton struggles in Ohio and Florida
There are two reasons why Clinton's poll numbers are down in Ohio and Florida against Donald Trump:
1. Clinton and surrogates have no traction.
2. Democratic candidates in these states are in trouble.
Of course, there might be a third reason, and that is that the Democratic National Party is weak. To this analyst, the DNC is failing as a host.
President Obama has served up some great economic news. Trump should be on the ropes for lies as many of his party members still, won't stand next to him.
The only reasons why citizens are not lining up in force is because their cheerleader isn't leading. The team is struggling to stay on the field.
Maybe pep talks from Obama and Bill Clinton are necessary. Maybe Clinton needs to ask Michelle for help too. Where is VP Kain while all of this is going on?
1. Clinton and surrogates have no traction.
2. Democratic candidates in these states are in trouble.
Of course, there might be a third reason, and that is that the Democratic National Party is weak. To this analyst, the DNC is failing as a host.
President Obama has served up some great economic news. Trump should be on the ropes for lies as many of his party members still, won't stand next to him.
The only reasons why citizens are not lining up in force is because their cheerleader isn't leading. The team is struggling to stay on the field.
Maybe pep talks from Obama and Bill Clinton are necessary. Maybe Clinton needs to ask Michelle for help too. Where is VP Kain while all of this is going on?
"THE CLINTON CAMP IS NOT GOING TO LIKE THESE POLLS FROM FLORIDA AND OHIO Bloomberg Politics and CNN polls give Donald Trump a five-point-lead in Ohio, and another CNN poll finds him up three points in Florida. [Ariel Edwards-Levy, HuffPost]"
Huffington Post Morning Email
Send in the "A" Team
Wednesday, September 14, 2016
How to Select an American President: The window for action is open
How to Select an American President: The window for action is open: While the immediate events leading to the Election of 2016 are out of control, the window for change and improvement remains open for action...
The window for action is open
While the immediate events leading to the Election of 2016 are out of control, the window for change and improvement remains open for action. The approach that I have taken as a politics writer and analyst has been to do the following:
1. Offer ways that voters can improve their performance in selecting qualified candidates for all public offices
2. Address the necessity to audit the performance of political parties from which to establish standards for greater function and effectiveness
3. Campaign to educate Americans about how government and elected officials should be performing
This initiative will consume the rest of my life and to that, I am dedicated.
There are several projects underway to address these actions:
1. How to Select and American President by James George with James Rodger (c) 2016 Archway-Simon & Schuster focuses on resumes and the evaluation process with implications for how candidates and their parties can improve at the direction of We the People.
2. Auditing the performance of political parties is a logical step following the Election 2016 disastrous performance by both parties
3. Addressing how government should be performing at local, state, and federal levels is a new initiative.
Also in the wings is attention to sustainable economics that I advocate should be the centerpiece of government performance.
Stay tuned to this channel because in 2017 there will be a bumper crop of ideas and actions.
1. Offer ways that voters can improve their performance in selecting qualified candidates for all public offices
2. Address the necessity to audit the performance of political parties from which to establish standards for greater function and effectiveness
3. Campaign to educate Americans about how government and elected officials should be performing
This initiative will consume the rest of my life and to that, I am dedicated.
There are several projects underway to address these actions:
1. How to Select and American President by James George with James Rodger (c) 2016 Archway-Simon & Schuster focuses on resumes and the evaluation process with implications for how candidates and their parties can improve at the direction of We the People.
2. Auditing the performance of political parties is a logical step following the Election 2016 disastrous performance by both parties
3. Addressing how government should be performing at local, state, and federal levels is a new initiative.
Also in the wings is attention to sustainable economics that I advocate should be the centerpiece of government performance.
Stay tuned to this channel because in 2017 there will be a bumper crop of ideas and actions.
Sunday, September 11, 2016
Pledging allegiance and patriotism
Colin Kaepernick is in the news alongside the 15th anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attack because he took a knee during the playing of the national anthem. While pundits discuss the appropriateness of athletes using the game-day stage to make political statements, there are some other considerations.
The American flag is a sacred symbol for the nation and all of its goodness. The country's history contains some disturbing truths that include the attempted annihilation of the Native American population and the introduction of and continued existence of enslavement of Africans.
It is probably impossible to completely correct those wrongs and mistakes, yet try as we must to continue. Witness the persistent abuses by the government enterprises and law enforcement that include racial discrimination against population segments. Also, see the abuse of corporations and governments against the wishes of Native Americans to protect our environment.
Evidence supports the need for vigilance and attention to the rights of minorities in America for which abuses undermine national values and the purpose as transcribed in the U.S. Constitution.
Nonetheless, allegiance to the ideals of American purpose is sacrosanct. Demonstrating loyalty comes in actions and words.
Kaepernick's taking a knee may very well be appropriate for our time. Maybe the entire crowd should take a knee, and bow our heads to contemplate what we have done, and what we must do to make America right again. That statement is not a tribute to Donald Trump.
If the theme includes humble self-reflection of the truth, good and bad, and if the outcome is to secure a path for improvement, then it is worthy of a salute. Having taken a knee, let us rise to place our hands over out hearts and to say the American Pledge of Allegiance as it was originally written by Francis Bellamy:
The American flag is a sacred symbol for the nation and all of its goodness. The country's history contains some disturbing truths that include the attempted annihilation of the Native American population and the introduction of and continued existence of enslavement of Africans.
It is probably impossible to completely correct those wrongs and mistakes, yet try as we must to continue. Witness the persistent abuses by the government enterprises and law enforcement that include racial discrimination against population segments. Also, see the abuse of corporations and governments against the wishes of Native Americans to protect our environment.
Evidence supports the need for vigilance and attention to the rights of minorities in America for which abuses undermine national values and the purpose as transcribed in the U.S. Constitution.
Nonetheless, allegiance to the ideals of American purpose is sacrosanct. Demonstrating loyalty comes in actions and words.
Kaepernick's taking a knee may very well be appropriate for our time. Maybe the entire crowd should take a knee, and bow our heads to contemplate what we have done, and what we must do to make America right again. That statement is not a tribute to Donald Trump.
If the theme includes humble self-reflection of the truth, good and bad, and if the outcome is to secure a path for improvement, then it is worthy of a salute. Having taken a knee, let us rise to place our hands over out hearts and to say the American Pledge of Allegiance as it was originally written by Francis Bellamy:
"I pledge allegiance to my Flag and the Republic for which it stands, one nation, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all."
Trail of Tears
Slavery
Black Lives Matter
Support our Troops
Support our Police
Saturday, September 10, 2016
How to Select an American President: Defining Trump's deplorables
How to Select an American President: Defining Trump's deplorables: Call a spade a spade. Mrs. Clinton started it. She carved out a swath of Trump supporters, describing them as being "deplorable."...
Defining Trump's deplorables
Call a spade a spade.
Mrs. Clinton started it. She carved out a swath of Trump supporters, describing them as being "deplorable." She later said that she regretted having done that, but stuck to her guns that many Trumpsters are deplorable.
When I heard it, I immediately compared the statement with my own previously published estimate that about 20-25% of the nation's voters are racist bigots and ignorant. Most of those are likely to be registered Republicans.
When I made a remark in a Facebook comment, an old schoolmate called me out by declaring that I should not be calling names. He said that just because he is against taxpayers paying for abortions doesn't make him bad. He doesn't want the nation to become socialistic. He wants to preserve the Constitution too. He underscored that he doesn't want Republican representatives to compromise with Democrats either.
I responded that the principle of not compromising drives a stake into the heart of American democracy and bipartisanship.
After some thought, like Clinton did, I apologized for name calling.
What my beef is that behind conservatism is the notion of not wanting to help those in need. The reasons that they offer may be religious. They also may be disguises for being greedy and afraid that the government will take away too much of their hard-earned money.
My friend offered a biblical reference in which Jesus said that "the poor will always be with us, even when he is not." Therefore, my friend concluded that there is nothing to be done about the situation. Jesus reminded us not to forget the poor when he is gone from this earth.
I offered another interpretation. Jesus told his disciples to take the fish and loaves that they had, and feed the masses before them. That is the spirit of sharing.
"Taking the five loaves and the two fish and looking up to heaven, he gave thanks and broke the loaves. Then he gave them to his disciples to distribute to the people. He also divided the two fish among them all.: Mark 6:41
The U.S. Constitution ensures life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness as well as freedom and equality for all citizens. For those wanting to take a swipe at minorities, denying women and all persons of different beliefs and characteristics something less, that is being deplorable.
Mrs. Clinton started it. She carved out a swath of Trump supporters, describing them as being "deplorable." She later said that she regretted having done that, but stuck to her guns that many Trumpsters are deplorable.
When I heard it, I immediately compared the statement with my own previously published estimate that about 20-25% of the nation's voters are racist bigots and ignorant. Most of those are likely to be registered Republicans.
When I made a remark in a Facebook comment, an old schoolmate called me out by declaring that I should not be calling names. He said that just because he is against taxpayers paying for abortions doesn't make him bad. He doesn't want the nation to become socialistic. He wants to preserve the Constitution too. He underscored that he doesn't want Republican representatives to compromise with Democrats either.
I responded that the principle of not compromising drives a stake into the heart of American democracy and bipartisanship.
After some thought, like Clinton did, I apologized for name calling.
What my beef is that behind conservatism is the notion of not wanting to help those in need. The reasons that they offer may be religious. They also may be disguises for being greedy and afraid that the government will take away too much of their hard-earned money.
My friend offered a biblical reference in which Jesus said that "the poor will always be with us, even when he is not." Therefore, my friend concluded that there is nothing to be done about the situation. Jesus reminded us not to forget the poor when he is gone from this earth.
I offered another interpretation. Jesus told his disciples to take the fish and loaves that they had, and feed the masses before them. That is the spirit of sharing.
"Taking the five loaves and the two fish and looking up to heaven, he gave thanks and broke the loaves. Then he gave them to his disciples to distribute to the people. He also divided the two fish among them all.: Mark 6:41
The U.S. Constitution ensures life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness as well as freedom and equality for all citizens. For those wanting to take a swipe at minorities, denying women and all persons of different beliefs and characteristics something less, that is being deplorable.
Just the way that it is
How to Select an American President: Do Americans know what they are voting for?
How to Select an American President: Do Americans know what they are voting for?: Here in Election 2016, the two major political parties have delivered two most imperfect candidates. In my new book, How to Select an Ameri...
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