Something to think about…from The Atlantic. Is this what we want? And….the use of Nazi tactics to get there? Really? Despite our disagreements, I sincerely hope not. I sure don’t.
"It’s been clear for quite a while now that red America and blue America are becoming like two different countries claiming the same territory, with two different versions of the Constitution, economics, and American history. But Babel is not a story about tribalism; it’s a story about the fragmentation of everything. It’s about the shattering of all that had seemed solid, the scattering of people who had been a community. It’s a metaphor for what is happening not only between red and blue, but within the left and within the right, as well as within universities, companies, professional associations, museums, and even families," writes Jonathan Haidt.
Yes, it would seem Haidt uses gibberish and babble to describe the American experience. “Tribalism,” “fragmentation,” “everything shattered?” No, this is more of a struggle between right and wrong, good versus evil, order versus chaos. Really over the geniuses at the New Yorker and Atlantic trying to make sorry ass excuses for American values and exceptionalism!
Elaine, Haidt is a smart guy who makes some good points. In the quote you use from him he doesn't say “Nazi” and you should stop using that word to voice your anti-Trump feelings. If you have something of substance to say, say it rather than use that word.
You are absolutely right and I apologize for that. I am so appalled by the complete government takeover and the tactics they are using that I get “emotionally hijacked”. Not good and thank you for pushing back on me for that. While I understand (I think) the frustration with government bloat and over-reach and corruption that both parties are responsible for, I can’t understand the cruelty that is being unleashed right now…the disregard for millions of real people who are being unnecessarily deprived of food, medicine, jobs, money…etc because of this government’s actions. Then there is climate change which is real. Too much to absorb and all very disturbing. It’s not about “sides” anymore.
Elaine, Voters voted to "take over" the current government, or rather the prior dysfunctional government structure that had been put in place by 12 years of prior Democrat administrations. That is how it is supposed to work.
"Climate change" is not real. Opportunity for all continues to exist in this country. I don't know where you are getting your apocalyptic versions of things. But I hope you continue to be open to new input. it sounds like you could have gotten trapped in some sort of doom cycle. No one is doing you any favors, if this is the case.
I disagree that climate change is not real. I believe in science more than the rantings of DT and others. If voters voted for a dictatorship, then that’s what you’re getting. Just say that you prefer that to a democracy. It’s okay if that’s what you want. Just don’t pretend that this in any way has anything to do with governing in a democracy.
Elaine, The climate is alway changing. "Climate Change" is a gas-lighting hoax for partisan gain.
Voters voted for change, and that is exactly what we are finally getting. Thank goodness. We voted for a representative Republic and chose DJT to be its current CEO, in partnership with the Legislative and Judiciary Branches. We do not, nor ever have operated as a mob rule "democracy".
Bust out your copy of the US Constitution and tell me where anyone has specifically strayed from its fundamental principles. Besides in your own fevered dreams about "Trump is a dictator" - that is pure partisan BS.
I respectfullly disagree. Blatant disregard for the rule of law, destroying the independence of the Legistative and Judiciary branches of government which are supposed to be EQUAL partners with the Executive branch are not stated principles in the US Constitution. I don’t think Trump has even read it.
How about “Nazism”? This administration is invading people‘s privacy, it’s authoritarian, it’s stripping people of their rights, in a Himmler like move musk is removing whoever he wants, whoever they feel is not loyal to trump, trump is trying to strong-arm other countries to have his way. Worse, if you remember nazis wanted to get rid of the Jews. DEI people have become trumps and musks Jews. I’m not trying to diminish the holocaust, as that was heinous in itself, but that’s the feeling I get with some of the moves this administration is making.
Also, don’t forget the shadow government. This includes, vp JD Vance, special advisor Stephen Miller, and Steve banyan lurking in the background, in the shadows egging these two on.I could go on, but you get the picture.
I appreciate your analysis. The ability to see in shades of gray is rare these days, as is the emotional maturity required when admitting when one is wrong (your reply to Polly). However usage of the term "Nazi" in the broad sense (e.g.,the far-right totalitarian socio-political ideology and practices associated with Adolf Hitler and the Nazi Party) is unacceptable to only a few.. And it's not incorrect to use this word to convey "the far-right totalitarian socio-political ideology and practices associated with Adolf Hitler and the Nazi Party." Did you actually cite a direct quote from Haidt and insert the word "Nazi" where it didn't belong?
Nitpicking your choice of words rather than responding to your ideas is a tactic to deflect from rather than address your intended points.
Elaine, Ban all government employee unions, and there is hope we can start to lessen the current built-in partisan division. When one group becomes totally aligned with the takers, they will be opposition from the makers. Plus are you aware, division of competing ideologies goes back to the founding of this nation?
Only after 1962, did we have a growing group with now an existential need to protect their own status quo within our government structure. Work on dismantling this relatively exclusive and now fully partisan entitlement sector within our government is now underway, as we speak. Be hopeful, Elaine.
I don’t dispute the long list of things that need to be addressed. This country needs a re-boot. However, I will NEVER agree that the ends justify the means. The means matter…a lot. I will not give up my humanity in the process. I will not de-humanize other people to rationalize what’s being done to them. We have huge problems in this country. I’m guessing we would agree on what most of them are. But….how can you support the way this is all being done? I just can’t.
Elaine, No one is getting "de-humanized". Everyone is a co-equal player. Government employees were made very generous buy-out offers. Deporting those who came here illegally, and downsizing the current government full employment entitlement mentality are both good things for the health of this nation.
Getting stuck in only a victim/oppressor world view, which may well be the fault of recent educational policies, has done neither side any favors. Time to get back to the fact individual choices always matter, and keeping opportunities open are worthy of protection.
These two forces brings us back to our original founding funding grit more than anything. We have huge opportunities in this country, and it is extraordinary we collectively have been able to still provide them. Depends how you chose to look at this, Elaine. I just simply do not chose to don what sounds like your 24/7 gloomy hair shirt. That is all.
Target the problem; name it and work to fix it with the tools you have at your own disposal. And identify the forces that are in opposition and target, name and work on them too.
What do you mean no one is being dehumanized? We see all those government workers that are getting locked out of their offices. Getting memos not to return to work, and why because they don’t support trump’s policies, and won’t sell their souls to be loyal to trump and not America. Their offices were invaded by musk and his gong of kindergartners, Who I’ve heard, have all become squatters, including musk, you watch they’ll probably claim squatters rights, so it’s hard to get rid of the when the time comes, and that can’t be to soon.
Confidential information on the citizens of America is now in the hands of musk, who is a foreigner. I don’t care if he’s a citizen he’s still a foreigner to America, who does not understand Americans. He has the highest security clearance that can be given. Why? He’s become trump’s assassin.
Elaine, you’re right. Some magas used the term “daddy‘s home” and “and he’s taking his belt off”. Which sounds both abusive or icky. This administration wants to look tough, but they’re just being bullies. They’re just gutting everything and destroying the government. Trump is doing something destructive every day, but people are still wondering when is he going to bring the price of groceries down? They lack empathy and humanity.
Firing people is hardly ‘Naziism’ Clinton fired all attorneys in the DOJ. So it’s not new. Cutting government and government waste and fraud seems a good idea so is there some other complaint?
Thanks you Robert for all of your investigative work. It becomes clearer every day why Biden pardoned himself as well as his entire family, all corrupt! Thank God the American people “Woke” up to the totality of the Biden Administration’s attempt to “Socialize” our Nation.
4 years to turn this country around? President Trump managed to do it in 4 days!
Interesting piece by Mr. Eringer. Clearly, our foreign policy under the Biden administration and specifically, Sec. Blinken has been an utter disaster. It is bizarre and scandalous to think where our tax dollars go in the name of foreign aid. The State Department appears to have been overly zealous with pro LGBTQ mandates and virtue signaling. It’s zeal to promote a “lifestyle” which is blatantly unacceptable to many countries around the world, particularly in Africa, Latin America and Muslim countries.
Kudos to the Trump State Department to expose and investigate the weirdo and nutty practices at State, starting with removal of the Rainbow flag over our embassies around the world!
As for Trump taking on the Mexican cartels, I say bravo! High time we take the war right to the enemy. With over 75K deaths annually from Fentanyl alone, time to bring in the drones and make some noise…shock and awe! Yes, the drug lords and the PRI Party, which owns and controls Mexico needs to rethink things…big time. After all, there is precedence for the US taking military action in Mexico in order to fight bandits/terrorists. In 1916 General John “Blackjack” Pershing chased Pancho Villa and his band of murderers throughout Mexico in response for the massacre in Columbus, New Mexico. Pershing never caught up with Villa, but then again, he never had Predator drones!
How disingenuous that, in an article complaining about wasteful spending, you fail to mention the billions we hand over to Israel, especially on a day in which Trump is meeting with Bibi.
The Palestinians are too concerned about mere survival to have sex. We have been funding genocide for 15 months and now Trump shamefully wants to 'clear them out.'
This administration is destroying the world- the Palestinians are the canaries in the coal mine… the genocide against them is the surest path to the NWO… 😞
I read this all-over-the-map article by Intelligence Person Mr. Robert Eringer titled
Condoms and Aid! ......" I quote from specific part of the article as follows
"Only the gut instinct of Lieutenant Colonel Stanislav Petrov that it was a false alarm prevented the Soviets from launching a full-scale nuclear “counterattack.”
Bringing this all back to Santa Barbara I would like to ask Intelligence Person Mr. Eringer >>
Any Russian's Operating in Santa Barbara, the SB So-Called Leaders Concealed?
Any Intelligence Operations Mr. Eringer? I am surprised you are not aware of all of
the US Agencies in our little Ole Beach Town to name a few FBI, NCIS, State Dept and CIA
Russian's just love Beach Towns that they infiltrate like the South of Spain with Bribery (Blat)>
There’s soooooooo much information, unfortunately it’s misinformation. I checked a few of the items on your list, and it seems that you pick and choose the facts you want to be true. Some are factual, but again you put in the words you like. I’ll just correct you on one, the $50 million you say was spent on condoms for Hamas, was actually part of a package for aid in Africa and only 7 million was spent on condoms as health prevention to control AIDS in Africa. The turtle tunnel was in Florida not Panama. They wanted the turtle tunnel to help turtles crossing under a highway it was north of Tallahassee. apparently, each year over 1000 turtles are killed on a half mile stretch of highway north of Tallahassee. This was one of the questionable projects that didn’t state if it was approved or not.
You know you would be perfect fit in this trump/musk administration. They work with half-truths, outright lies, and fear mongering. Plus, they use distraction by doing so many things at a time so people don’t notice exactly what they’re doing.
Talk about bloat and dribble. Heather Richardson is a gaseous balloon of the “thinking” class. She's done what? She's started how many new car companies and launched how many rockets? Elaine, your un-thinking class pundits like to sit around mulling over what their take should be on policies and then peck it out in some silly column. I'm a writer. I enjoy writing comments. That does not confer any experience on me in negotiating. You obviously have zero concept of what is going and how miraculous it is that we have people like Trump and Musk who are willing to fight for what they know is right. Show a little gratitude.
Richardson is a highly respected historian. There is a place for that as well as building cars. Musk is a genius who has done some incredible things. He has NO experience in government or governing, had no compassion for other people and is as power hungry as Trump. You make the point well. We (the American people) have VERY different understandings of what is right and wrong, good and evil. I have NO gratitude for destroying the lives of millions around the world in service of power and money.
Elaine, Musk has exactly the large business management experience our bloated government operations desperately needs. There is no pain in this; only profound relief we are getting our expansive country back on track. April 15 will start looking a lot less painful. For that you should be grateful.
There is no pain for you…or for me. Don’t tell that to the thousands who are now out of a job, can’t support their families, have had personal information stripped from their access. Don’t tell that to the child who now has no parents because they were arrested even tho’ they are here legally and not allowed to even take a bag of clothes (true stories from teachers I know) and the kids who are not in school because their parent are too afraid to send them. Don’t tell that to the people depending on cancer research projects and on and on and on. Is this all about lower taxes? Really?????? THe WAY this is being done is beyond cruel.
Elaine, Throwing money at something solves nothing. Becoming a massive debtor nation is a grave concern. Your immediate arguments unfortunately sound like the same buzz words coming out of Democrat party progressive central.
Which belies your claims of political neutrality. Honestly, is someone else feeding you this stuff? None of this sounds in fact or independent research. Which one is it?
I respect what you're saying about being opposed to destroying the lives of millions around the world in the service of power and money. This is what USAID has been involved in. Here's a link to an interview that lays it out, whatever you think of Mike Benz or Joe Rogan, it's 3 hours spelling out the nefarious tactics that have been used by the DC establishment. I'm linking rather than explaining because I'm in the hospital, where I've been for three weeks, and they want me to do rehab :-) thank you for your thoughtful answer.
I have no good thoughts about Joe Rogan but I will find the time to watch this. I, like so many others, no longer have faith in much of what I see and hear through most media.….which is not a good sign for the country. Joe Rogan is not an alternative for me. I have no doubt about bloat and misuse of funds that BOTH sides are responsible for. I take huge issue with the tactics being used now. That said…and really more important in this moment, I’m so so sorry you are in the hospital and hope you are being well cared for and are on the mend from whatever put you there in the first place. Truly. Sending you good thoughts for getting on the other side.
Thank you. I give Cottage Hospital, the surgeons (especially the one who literally saved my life), the ICU unit, the RNs, the City College students - everyone - the highest possible rating. Even the food is fine (thanks in part to Julia Child). They've let my husband sleep in my room on the couch. I had severe septic shock from a hernia I didn't even know I had bursting, was in a coma for four days, woke up to a young RN saying “Polly!” And it was the wonderful young woman who four years ago took care of my mom when I wasn't allowed to be with her during the lockdown at her assisted living apartment. This young woman was a caregiver at the time and when I wasn't allowed to be with my mom on Christmas or Thanksgiving she spent it with her. There was over 70 years difference between them and they became friends. My mom told her she needed to become an RN, and she did. When you almost die you see life differently. You realize you have a limited time and it can all be over in a flash. You need to do what you believe in. Trump almost died from an assassin. Yet he is working night and day to pull this country together. Is he a nice person? Of course not. Is Elon a power driven guy? Sure. I couldn't care less. I know now that these are the people we need, imperfect though they are. You have your opinion and it's just flat out wrong. Sorry. Take a trip to the other side like I did. You'll see how wrong you are. Me I'm grateful whoever is in charge let me live to see America be saved.
Thanks for sharing, Polly! That was quite an experience you had. Glad you had things taken care of, get well and we all are happy to hear from you from Cottage.
It’s hard to respond to this Polly. I want to take politics out of it. What you’ve been through is life-changing indeed. I’ve had my own experiences. I also think Cottage is special. Politically, we just deeply disagree about what is right/wrong and the “truth” is probably a mix of both. I hope for you that you fill your life with whatever has meaning for you and that you will soon be feeling healthy and strong…that you are surrounded by friends and family for whatever support you need. As a woman…as a fellow human…I feel only good will toward you. Be well.
Wow, you covered so much in your article. I'm stuck on knowing more about the turtle tunnel for $3.5M in Panama. I love turtles and tortoises. No doubt the Feds spend money for anything they can invent, such as turtle tunnels, an interesting "pet" project. What Elon needs to do is follow the money trail for all the pet projects. My hunch when Elon connects the dots, we will be amazed at the amount of taxpayer money is laundered and siphoned into the pockets of the Feds. I can't wait for the handcuffs to be clamped onto the wrists of the swindlers.
I can't find anything about a $3.5M turtle tunnel, hmm.
Exactly. Eringer just spews what ever he finds online that meets his narrative. Like I say each time - go to Amazon and see how his books are reviewed. I think is sole audience is the SB current.
Book sales don't necessarily represent someone's writing capabilities. Writing interests don't necessarily parallel popular subject matters. Are you not interested in the Fed money laundering scams?
I am concerned about government waste. I just don't consider him any sort of reliable source. He seems like a cut and paste dump from X or whatever tickles his fancy. Other than some doctored wiki page, which has their "This article's "criticism" or "controversy" section may compromise the article's neutrality." warning I don't get his appeal.
Warning: snark filter not turned on. Partisan forces have already forecast their next election year Zombie Apocalypse: 2032 - meteor scheduled to crash into planet earth.
Just like "covid-covid-covid" in 2020, and the Democrat policy-induced housing crash in 2008. The Democrat Wonder Years.
Are they really taking a pass in 2028? The looks of their new DNC leadership team, one would assume they are not yet ready for prime time in 2028..
Something to think about…from The Atlantic. Is this what we want? And….the use of Nazi tactics to get there? Really? Despite our disagreements, I sincerely hope not. I sure don’t.
"It’s been clear for quite a while now that red America and blue America are becoming like two different countries claiming the same territory, with two different versions of the Constitution, economics, and American history. But Babel is not a story about tribalism; it’s a story about the fragmentation of everything. It’s about the shattering of all that had seemed solid, the scattering of people who had been a community. It’s a metaphor for what is happening not only between red and blue, but within the left and within the right, as well as within universities, companies, professional associations, museums, and even families," writes Jonathan Haidt.
Yes, it would seem Haidt uses gibberish and babble to describe the American experience. “Tribalism,” “fragmentation,” “everything shattered?” No, this is more of a struggle between right and wrong, good versus evil, order versus chaos. Really over the geniuses at the New Yorker and Atlantic trying to make sorry ass excuses for American values and exceptionalism!
Right on LT
Elaine, Haidt is a smart guy who makes some good points. In the quote you use from him he doesn't say “Nazi” and you should stop using that word to voice your anti-Trump feelings. If you have something of substance to say, say it rather than use that word.
You are absolutely right and I apologize for that. I am so appalled by the complete government takeover and the tactics they are using that I get “emotionally hijacked”. Not good and thank you for pushing back on me for that. While I understand (I think) the frustration with government bloat and over-reach and corruption that both parties are responsible for, I can’t understand the cruelty that is being unleashed right now…the disregard for millions of real people who are being unnecessarily deprived of food, medicine, jobs, money…etc because of this government’s actions. Then there is climate change which is real. Too much to absorb and all very disturbing. It’s not about “sides” anymore.
Elaine, Voters voted to "take over" the current government, or rather the prior dysfunctional government structure that had been put in place by 12 years of prior Democrat administrations. That is how it is supposed to work.
"Climate change" is not real. Opportunity for all continues to exist in this country. I don't know where you are getting your apocalyptic versions of things. But I hope you continue to be open to new input. it sounds like you could have gotten trapped in some sort of doom cycle. No one is doing you any favors, if this is the case.
I disagree that climate change is not real. I believe in science more than the rantings of DT and others. If voters voted for a dictatorship, then that’s what you’re getting. Just say that you prefer that to a democracy. It’s okay if that’s what you want. Just don’t pretend that this in any way has anything to do with governing in a democracy.
Elaine, The climate is alway changing. "Climate Change" is a gas-lighting hoax for partisan gain.
Voters voted for change, and that is exactly what we are finally getting. Thank goodness. We voted for a representative Republic and chose DJT to be its current CEO, in partnership with the Legislative and Judiciary Branches. We do not, nor ever have operated as a mob rule "democracy".
Bust out your copy of the US Constitution and tell me where anyone has specifically strayed from its fundamental principles. Besides in your own fevered dreams about "Trump is a dictator" - that is pure partisan BS.
I respectfullly disagree. Blatant disregard for the rule of law, destroying the independence of the Legistative and Judiciary branches of government which are supposed to be EQUAL partners with the Executive branch are not stated principles in the US Constitution. I don’t think Trump has even read it.
J
Today,we are seeing once again that liberalism is a mental disorder.
Cheers!
Stay strong Elaine.
How are you swinging a pocket watch on a chain in front of Elaine at the moment? 😂
Polly,
How about “Nazism”? This administration is invading people‘s privacy, it’s authoritarian, it’s stripping people of their rights, in a Himmler like move musk is removing whoever he wants, whoever they feel is not loyal to trump, trump is trying to strong-arm other countries to have his way. Worse, if you remember nazis wanted to get rid of the Jews. DEI people have become trumps and musks Jews. I’m not trying to diminish the holocaust, as that was heinous in itself, but that’s the feeling I get with some of the moves this administration is making.
Also, don’t forget the shadow government. This includes, vp JD Vance, special advisor Stephen Miller, and Steve banyan lurking in the background, in the shadows egging these two on.I could go on, but you get the picture.
I appreciate your analysis. The ability to see in shades of gray is rare these days, as is the emotional maturity required when admitting when one is wrong (your reply to Polly). However usage of the term "Nazi" in the broad sense (e.g.,the far-right totalitarian socio-political ideology and practices associated with Adolf Hitler and the Nazi Party) is unacceptable to only a few.. And it's not incorrect to use this word to convey "the far-right totalitarian socio-political ideology and practices associated with Adolf Hitler and the Nazi Party." Did you actually cite a direct quote from Haidt and insert the word "Nazi" where it didn't belong?
Nitpicking your choice of words rather than responding to your ideas is a tactic to deflect from rather than address your intended points.
(personal insults are another deflection tactic)
Oh good grief, Victoria. Godwin's' Law remains good advice.
Ms. Valente,
Believe it or not, there’s a lot of that going on in these comments, including myself. Sometimes they just set it up themselves.
Elaine, Ban all government employee unions, and there is hope we can start to lessen the current built-in partisan division. When one group becomes totally aligned with the takers, they will be opposition from the makers. Plus are you aware, division of competing ideologies goes back to the founding of this nation?
Only after 1962, did we have a growing group with now an existential need to protect their own status quo within our government structure. Work on dismantling this relatively exclusive and now fully partisan entitlement sector within our government is now underway, as we speak. Be hopeful, Elaine.
I don’t dispute the long list of things that need to be addressed. This country needs a re-boot. However, I will NEVER agree that the ends justify the means. The means matter…a lot. I will not give up my humanity in the process. I will not de-humanize other people to rationalize what’s being done to them. We have huge problems in this country. I’m guessing we would agree on what most of them are. But….how can you support the way this is all being done? I just can’t.
Elaine, No one is getting "de-humanized". Everyone is a co-equal player. Government employees were made very generous buy-out offers. Deporting those who came here illegally, and downsizing the current government full employment entitlement mentality are both good things for the health of this nation.
Getting stuck in only a victim/oppressor world view, which may well be the fault of recent educational policies, has done neither side any favors. Time to get back to the fact individual choices always matter, and keeping opportunities open are worthy of protection.
These two forces brings us back to our original founding funding grit more than anything. We have huge opportunities in this country, and it is extraordinary we collectively have been able to still provide them. Depends how you chose to look at this, Elaine. I just simply do not chose to don what sounds like your 24/7 gloomy hair shirt. That is all.
Target the problem; name it and work to fix it with the tools you have at your own disposal. And identify the forces that are in opposition and target, name and work on them too.
JL,
What do you mean no one is being dehumanized? We see all those government workers that are getting locked out of their offices. Getting memos not to return to work, and why because they don’t support trump’s policies, and won’t sell their souls to be loyal to trump and not America. Their offices were invaded by musk and his gong of kindergartners, Who I’ve heard, have all become squatters, including musk, you watch they’ll probably claim squatters rights, so it’s hard to get rid of the when the time comes, and that can’t be to soon.
Confidential information on the citizens of America is now in the hands of musk, who is a foreigner. I don’t care if he’s a citizen he’s still a foreigner to America, who does not understand Americans. He has the highest security clearance that can be given. Why? He’s become trump’s assassin.
Elaine, you’re right. Some magas used the term “daddy‘s home” and “and he’s taking his belt off”. Which sounds both abusive or icky. This administration wants to look tough, but they’re just being bullies. They’re just gutting everything and destroying the government. Trump is doing something destructive every day, but people are still wondering when is he going to bring the price of groceries down? They lack empathy and humanity.
Firing people is hardly ‘Naziism’ Clinton fired all attorneys in the DOJ. So it’s not new. Cutting government and government waste and fraud seems a good idea so is there some other complaint?
Hello Elaine, that is a very good observation and as a woman, who
usually have greater insight into life than men, (hate to go there)
you pointed out some real TRUTHS. During the Civil War or the War
of the Blue against the Grey, sound familiar, people died for their
believes. We are currently in a Soft Civil War minus the violent
physical battlefields. However, the Destruction to our "Divided Country"
is on-going and a serious problem. Sometimes one side has to
clearly WIN to restore ORDER.
Thanks you Robert for all of your investigative work. It becomes clearer every day why Biden pardoned himself as well as his entire family, all corrupt! Thank God the American people “Woke” up to the totality of the Biden Administration’s attempt to “Socialize” our Nation.
4 years to turn this country around? President Trump managed to do it in 4 days!
No, President Biden stated that he would not issue a pardon for himself, "as he believes he has not done anything wrong".
I'd say this is a ploy to have him be the Fall Guy, determined to be too senile to stand trial.
Interesting piece by Mr. Eringer. Clearly, our foreign policy under the Biden administration and specifically, Sec. Blinken has been an utter disaster. It is bizarre and scandalous to think where our tax dollars go in the name of foreign aid. The State Department appears to have been overly zealous with pro LGBTQ mandates and virtue signaling. It’s zeal to promote a “lifestyle” which is blatantly unacceptable to many countries around the world, particularly in Africa, Latin America and Muslim countries.
Kudos to the Trump State Department to expose and investigate the weirdo and nutty practices at State, starting with removal of the Rainbow flag over our embassies around the world!
As for Trump taking on the Mexican cartels, I say bravo! High time we take the war right to the enemy. With over 75K deaths annually from Fentanyl alone, time to bring in the drones and make some noise…shock and awe! Yes, the drug lords and the PRI Party, which owns and controls Mexico needs to rethink things…big time. After all, there is precedence for the US taking military action in Mexico in order to fight bandits/terrorists. In 1916 General John “Blackjack” Pershing chased Pancho Villa and his band of murderers throughout Mexico in response for the massacre in Columbus, New Mexico. Pershing never caught up with Villa, but then again, he never had Predator drones!
How disingenuous that, in an article complaining about wasteful spending, you fail to mention the billions we hand over to Israel, especially on a day in which Trump is meeting with Bibi.
The BILLIONS given to the military industrial complex! Obscene.
Hard to know what's conjecture and true when there is no vetting. Here is just one example of many. The the US give Gaza $50mil for condoms? Facts say NO! https://www.snopes.com/news/2025/01/29/evidence-us-govt-50m-condoms-gaza/
Correct. That's the problem with Eringers shotgun of thought. But most here just read it and take it as a fact since they'd like to agree with it.
That said it seems like Eringer is having far greater success writing here than any of his books on Amazon.
The Palestinians are too concerned about mere survival to have sex. We have been funding genocide for 15 months and now Trump shamefully wants to 'clear them out.'
This administration is destroying the world- the Palestinians are the canaries in the coal mine… the genocide against them is the surest path to the NWO… 😞
I read this all-over-the-map article by Intelligence Person Mr. Robert Eringer titled
Condoms and Aid! ......" I quote from specific part of the article as follows
"Only the gut instinct of Lieutenant Colonel Stanislav Petrov that it was a false alarm prevented the Soviets from launching a full-scale nuclear “counterattack.”
Bringing this all back to Santa Barbara I would like to ask Intelligence Person Mr. Eringer >>
Any Russian's Operating in Santa Barbara, the SB So-Called Leaders Concealed?
Any Intelligence Operations Mr. Eringer? I am surprised you are not aware of all of
the US Agencies in our little Ole Beach Town to name a few FBI, NCIS, State Dept and CIA
Russian's just love Beach Towns that they infiltrate like the South of Spain with Bribery (Blat)>
https://www.propublica.org/article/fighting-russian-mafia-networks-in-spain
"A Russian's Gangster's Place in the Sun: How Spain’s Fight Against the Mob Revealed Russian Power Networks" Hmm any other Gangster's in CALI?
https://calmatters.org/commentary/2021/10/california-sees-wave-of-political-corruption/
"California sees wave of political corruption"
Any Blat-Bribery in Santa Barbara to conceal Russian Gangsters? Just a Question.
I Think there is a HUGE Problem in CALI and SB - Time to MOVE-OUT!!
Howard Walther, Member of a Military Family
PS1 - Was there a Russian that had a "Gut Instinct" on Corruption in Santa Barbara?
Mr. Eringer,
There’s soooooooo much information, unfortunately it’s misinformation. I checked a few of the items on your list, and it seems that you pick and choose the facts you want to be true. Some are factual, but again you put in the words you like. I’ll just correct you on one, the $50 million you say was spent on condoms for Hamas, was actually part of a package for aid in Africa and only 7 million was spent on condoms as health prevention to control AIDS in Africa. The turtle tunnel was in Florida not Panama. They wanted the turtle tunnel to help turtles crossing under a highway it was north of Tallahassee. apparently, each year over 1000 turtles are killed on a half mile stretch of highway north of Tallahassee. This was one of the questionable projects that didn’t state if it was approved or not.
You know you would be perfect fit in this trump/musk administration. They work with half-truths, outright lies, and fear mongering. Plus, they use distraction by doing so many things at a time so people don’t notice exactly what they’re doing.
Babylon Bee nails it. Trump is the first "fascist" to actually reduce the size of government overreach:
https://babylonbee.com/news/trump-becomes-first-fascist-in-history-to-reduce-size-of-government
Trigger warning: This is a political spoof website.
yes, the government is bloated but much of this is dribble. Read this. This is what you voted for. https://open.substack.com/pub/heathercoxrichardson/p/february-3-2025?r=el2rx&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=email
Talk about bloat and dribble. Heather Richardson is a gaseous balloon of the “thinking” class. She's done what? She's started how many new car companies and launched how many rockets? Elaine, your un-thinking class pundits like to sit around mulling over what their take should be on policies and then peck it out in some silly column. I'm a writer. I enjoy writing comments. That does not confer any experience on me in negotiating. You obviously have zero concept of what is going and how miraculous it is that we have people like Trump and Musk who are willing to fight for what they know is right. Show a little gratitude.
Richardson is a highly respected historian. There is a place for that as well as building cars. Musk is a genius who has done some incredible things. He has NO experience in government or governing, had no compassion for other people and is as power hungry as Trump. You make the point well. We (the American people) have VERY different understandings of what is right and wrong, good and evil. I have NO gratitude for destroying the lives of millions around the world in service of power and money.
Elaine, Musk has exactly the large business management experience our bloated government operations desperately needs. There is no pain in this; only profound relief we are getting our expansive country back on track. April 15 will start looking a lot less painful. For that you should be grateful.
There is no pain for you…or for me. Don’t tell that to the thousands who are now out of a job, can’t support their families, have had personal information stripped from their access. Don’t tell that to the child who now has no parents because they were arrested even tho’ they are here legally and not allowed to even take a bag of clothes (true stories from teachers I know) and the kids who are not in school because their parent are too afraid to send them. Don’t tell that to the people depending on cancer research projects and on and on and on. Is this all about lower taxes? Really?????? THe WAY this is being done is beyond cruel.
Elaine, Throwing money at something solves nothing. Becoming a massive debtor nation is a grave concern. Your immediate arguments unfortunately sound like the same buzz words coming out of Democrat party progressive central.
Which belies your claims of political neutrality. Honestly, is someone else feeding you this stuff? None of this sounds in fact or independent research. Which one is it?
I agree with your first two sentences.
My point….the MEANS do NOT justify the ends
I respect what you're saying about being opposed to destroying the lives of millions around the world in the service of power and money. This is what USAID has been involved in. Here's a link to an interview that lays it out, whatever you think of Mike Benz or Joe Rogan, it's 3 hours spelling out the nefarious tactics that have been used by the DC establishment. I'm linking rather than explaining because I'm in the hospital, where I've been for three weeks, and they want me to do rehab :-) thank you for your thoughtful answer.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rrJhQpvlkLA&t=8170s
I have no good thoughts about Joe Rogan but I will find the time to watch this. I, like so many others, no longer have faith in much of what I see and hear through most media.….which is not a good sign for the country. Joe Rogan is not an alternative for me. I have no doubt about bloat and misuse of funds that BOTH sides are responsible for. I take huge issue with the tactics being used now. That said…and really more important in this moment, I’m so so sorry you are in the hospital and hope you are being well cared for and are on the mend from whatever put you there in the first place. Truly. Sending you good thoughts for getting on the other side.
Thank you. I give Cottage Hospital, the surgeons (especially the one who literally saved my life), the ICU unit, the RNs, the City College students - everyone - the highest possible rating. Even the food is fine (thanks in part to Julia Child). They've let my husband sleep in my room on the couch. I had severe septic shock from a hernia I didn't even know I had bursting, was in a coma for four days, woke up to a young RN saying “Polly!” And it was the wonderful young woman who four years ago took care of my mom when I wasn't allowed to be with her during the lockdown at her assisted living apartment. This young woman was a caregiver at the time and when I wasn't allowed to be with my mom on Christmas or Thanksgiving she spent it with her. There was over 70 years difference between them and they became friends. My mom told her she needed to become an RN, and she did. When you almost die you see life differently. You realize you have a limited time and it can all be over in a flash. You need to do what you believe in. Trump almost died from an assassin. Yet he is working night and day to pull this country together. Is he a nice person? Of course not. Is Elon a power driven guy? Sure. I couldn't care less. I know now that these are the people we need, imperfect though they are. You have your opinion and it's just flat out wrong. Sorry. Take a trip to the other side like I did. You'll see how wrong you are. Me I'm grateful whoever is in charge let me live to see America be saved.
Thanks for sharing, Polly! That was quite an experience you had. Glad you had things taken care of, get well and we all are happy to hear from you from Cottage.
It’s hard to respond to this Polly. I want to take politics out of it. What you’ve been through is life-changing indeed. I’ve had my own experiences. I also think Cottage is special. Politically, we just deeply disagree about what is right/wrong and the “truth” is probably a mix of both. I hope for you that you fill your life with whatever has meaning for you and that you will soon be feeling healthy and strong…that you are surrounded by friends and family for whatever support you need. As a woman…as a fellow human…I feel only good will toward you. Be well.
Wow, you covered so much in your article. I'm stuck on knowing more about the turtle tunnel for $3.5M in Panama. I love turtles and tortoises. No doubt the Feds spend money for anything they can invent, such as turtle tunnels, an interesting "pet" project. What Elon needs to do is follow the money trail for all the pet projects. My hunch when Elon connects the dots, we will be amazed at the amount of taxpayer money is laundered and siphoned into the pockets of the Feds. I can't wait for the handcuffs to be clamped onto the wrists of the swindlers.
I can't find anything about a $3.5M turtle tunnel, hmm.
Exactly. Eringer just spews what ever he finds online that meets his narrative. Like I say each time - go to Amazon and see how his books are reviewed. I think is sole audience is the SB current.
Book sales don't necessarily represent someone's writing capabilities. Writing interests don't necessarily parallel popular subject matters. Are you not interested in the Fed money laundering scams?
I am concerned about government waste. I just don't consider him any sort of reliable source. He seems like a cut and paste dump from X or whatever tickles his fancy. Other than some doctored wiki page, which has their "This article's "criticism" or "controversy" section may compromise the article's neutrality." warning I don't get his appeal.
OK ...
Warning: snark filter not turned on. Partisan forces have already forecast their next election year Zombie Apocalypse: 2032 - meteor scheduled to crash into planet earth.
Just like "covid-covid-covid" in 2020, and the Democrat policy-induced housing crash in 2008. The Democrat Wonder Years.
Are they really taking a pass in 2028? The looks of their new DNC leadership team, one would assume they are not yet ready for prime time in 2028..
I couldn't tell the DNC had any leadership.