I have read some of arch-Catholic William F Buckley Jr's writings about his feeling regarding Ayn Rand and her merry band of hedonists.
I wonder what Mr. Buckley would say about the right wing reactionary movement he was instrumental in founding and its embrace of the philosophy of the woman he most hated. Even Communism because of its anti sexualism could not inspire the hatred Mr Buckley reserved for Ms Rand.
I wonder what Mr. Buckley would say about the right wing reactionary movement he was instrumental in founding and its embrace of the philosophy of the woman he most hated. Even Communism because of its anti sexualism could not inspire the hatred Mr Buckley reserved for Ms Rand.
17
Looks like Benjamin Franklin, talks like Dalai Lama.
2
A male reporter needs to sit down with Rand Paul and ask him how he has evolved into a libertarian flip flopper. Then he needs to ask him if he will ever evolve from brow beating women reporters who are doing the same job as men and just trying to get the truth out of him.
43
Did Gail say "Aqua Buddha"? I knew Aqua Buddha. Aqua Buddha was a friend of mine. Rand Paul is no Acqua Buddha!
27
Rand Paul is a flip-flopping hypocrite of the worst kind. Even if you disagree with his father Ron Paul's positions, he at least had the integrity to stand by his principles. Rand has basically "evolved" to eliminate any real differentiation with the other Repub candidates. He is a snake that will change his skin to fit the popular trend. Is he a libertarian? Absolutely not.
27
I thought Rand Paul might be an interesting alternative until I saw the video of his statement regarding vaccinations. He wandered into the Michele Bachmann weeds. After watching his condescending attitude toward Savannah Gutherie I lost all interest in him as a candidate. His opinion of himself and contempt for others is way too much for little old ordinary voting citizen me.
44
Oh my, yesterday I was trying to outrun Rand Raul's announcement being aired to the world!! "Take back our country"? Really, to the 19th century... Today I laughed out loud reading Gail's column and taking the quiz. Look forward to more of the same.
22
When I point out these flip flops to Republicans, they say all candidates do it. I disagree, and I argue that "everyone does it" is no answer.
My hope is the media will keep asking WHY candidates changed positions. These are core positions, in many cases; they're not changes in hairstyle or suits.
My hope is the media will keep asking WHY candidates changed positions. These are core positions, in many cases; they're not changes in hairstyle or suits.
19
I have found that most attempts at rational, fact-based debates with Republicans are prematurely ended with them insisting "both side do it."
29
At best, he's appears to be somewhat careless in his reasoning, which leads him to make statements which are not only untrue, but also unwise to have said.
At the worst, he's delusional and holds little regard for truth vs. popular myth.
Either way, I'm glad he's not my doctor or the President.
Frankly, I think he's both careless and almost completely deluded.
At the worst, he's delusional and holds little regard for truth vs. popular myth.
Either way, I'm glad he's not my doctor or the President.
Frankly, I think he's both careless and almost completely deluded.
40
Let us not forget, Rand Paul would not be the only eye doctor on the world's stage. The other one is Bashar al-Assad, and we all know how that's turning out.
34
I, for one, am thrilled that Ru Paul is running for president. Just what we need in Washington - a little diversity!
85
RP's lack of moral compass is all too obvious by now. He's even calling for a constitutional amendment to impose a balanced-budget on the federal government, With such an amendment, where would federal relief for a tornado-torn Kentucky come from? The VA? Medicare?
All t hose families around the kitchen table struggling to balance their budgets--they borrow to the hilt. Student loan and credit care debt now top $2 trillion. Add deferred payments on cars and appliances...
All t hose families around the kitchen table struggling to balance their budgets--they borrow to the hilt. Student loan and credit care debt now top $2 trillion. Add deferred payments on cars and appliances...
20
Rand Paul flip flopping is secondary to his being completely wrong on every issue of our time. His calls for austerity measures during the worst economic collapse and his fighting against economic stimulus after the Second Great Depression have shown him to be completely wrong on the single biggest issue of our day. Europe did what rand Paul proposed and America did the opposite and the US has out-paced Europe in every economic measure, including payment of national debt and employemnt. Rand 'warned' QE2 would cause "hyper-inflation(1500%)unseen since Weimar Germany", which it isn't close at under 2%, or "wheelbarrows to carry our money to the grocery to buy bread" were all used to fear monger and stymy economic stimulus when our Nation needed it most. He's a doctor yet he fear mongered by calling for travel bans imposed by the Federal government, which he always claims overreaches and "is the problem", in response to ebola and he was completely wrong and did not understand the science. He 'warned' that 3000 military personnel President Obama sent to West Africa would come back with ebola and that it would spread due to the close proximity of how the troops live together. He was wrong again. He 'warned' that people would catch ebola at cocktail parties. not only do I not attend cocktail parties like this joker but he was wrong again. He tried to thwart our Nation's economic recovery like all of the Republicans have done since 2009 they were wrong again.
47
Dr. Sen. No, no, no. From the Party of No.
It all makes sense no!
It all makes sense no!
11
thank you, gail, for reminding us about aqua buddha. as good as the "dog on the roof of the car".
from now on, please refer to rand as "senator rand 'aqual buddha' paul". too bad we don't have a good videotape of aqua buddha in action--would it be possible to recreate the incident, exercising dramatic license?
from now on, please refer to rand as "senator rand 'aqual buddha' paul". too bad we don't have a good videotape of aqua buddha in action--would it be possible to recreate the incident, exercising dramatic license?
15
Gail nails new candidate: I suppose each and every candidate will undergo skewering.
Senator Paul's inconsistencies have been noticeable since he was elected:
The media are indeed the messages in that I already knew of some contradictions a la "libertarianism-conservatism."
It is interesting to observe the rhetoric and responses to inquiring questions.
I'd never discount "chameleonship" aka flexibility/adaptability.
Because: reality tends toward absurdity and cleverly playing complex nuances of politics is "mastering reality."
RP politics are complicated, and I suggest his Presidential candidacy ipso facto shall be as much enlightening as entertaining.
Senator Paul's inconsistencies have been noticeable since he was elected:
The media are indeed the messages in that I already knew of some contradictions a la "libertarianism-conservatism."
It is interesting to observe the rhetoric and responses to inquiring questions.
I'd never discount "chameleonship" aka flexibility/adaptability.
Because: reality tends toward absurdity and cleverly playing complex nuances of politics is "mastering reality."
RP politics are complicated, and I suggest his Presidential candidacy ipso facto shall be as much enlightening as entertaining.
2
Rand Paul is a good man at his roots but he is lying and betraying his beliefs to get by the neocon and media destruction machines. Look at the ads being taken out against by pro-Likud, bomb Iran groups. They hate and attack anyone who doesn't drop to their knees for them. The neocons have ruined politics and are happy to send your and my children to go die or ruin their lives for their conquests. Israel won't attack Iran because they don't want to be blamed for the global economic meltdown and all the death and destruction it will bring. They want their puppet America to do it for them. Hopefully Rand will get back to being truthful because Americans are sick of this nonsense
10
Ms Collins,
I am not a Rand Paul fan.
That said, this is not a well-written parody, but is mean-spirited and conniving, overshadowed only by condescension.
It typifies the reason so many decent, honest people will not associate themselves with liberalism.
I am not a Rand Paul fan.
That said, this is not a well-written parody, but is mean-spirited and conniving, overshadowed only by condescension.
It typifies the reason so many decent, honest people will not associate themselves with liberalism.
1
Many decent, honest people do associate themselves with liberalism on the other hand, and many same will not associate themselves with conservatism as practiced by so many who think as you do - that only conservatives are decent, honest people.
52
I thought Gail Collins showed a good deal of restraint. Rand Paul has shown himself to be mean spirited and dishonest, to say otherwise would be wrong.
If it bothers you to see the truth about these politicians then you might want to come to grips with the fact that the politicians themselves are the problem.
If it bothers you to see the truth about these politicians then you might want to come to grips with the fact that the politicians themselves are the problem.
70
Rand Paul is supposed to be "super-smart"? I don't see it. He cribs his speeches from Wikipedia and oxymoronically calls himself a libertarian while claiming government has the right to control women's bodies (specifically, their reproductive organs) and prevent same-sex couples from marrying. He is so clueless, he can't even discern how not-ready-for-prime-time he is. I suppose politicians like Rand Paul look at Barack Obama, the first black president, and think, "If he can do it, anybody can!" Well, not just anybody, Rand Paul--but thanks anyway for climbing aboard the Republican Clown Car--you and your fellow GOPer's crazy antics on the campaign trail will no doubt continue to delight and amuse for years.
53
I don't get the "first term Senator" reference....Obama served in the Senate from January 2005-November 2008....How long do first-term Senators have to serve before they can run (and be elected) to the Presidency?
1
I don't think she indicated that it was a bad thing, she just commented on the fact that a lot of first term senators are now running for office. It is an interesting trend.
10
Going to the Dogs?
Self-certification isn't rare either in the medical or other spheres. Putting your hand on the proverbial rock and declaring, "I am a..." is even heroic. Most of us stupidly and stubbornly believe in educational and other credentials, while the movers and shakers simply forge ahead. We have functional tests for kids who want supermarket cashier jobs, but for presidents, nothing at all. Anybody see something wrong in this?
Self-certification isn't rare either in the medical or other spheres. Putting your hand on the proverbial rock and declaring, "I am a..." is even heroic. Most of us stupidly and stubbornly believe in educational and other credentials, while the movers and shakers simply forge ahead. We have functional tests for kids who want supermarket cashier jobs, but for presidents, nothing at all. Anybody see something wrong in this?
40
Rand Paul's 'evolution' is typical of a political outlier needing to broaden his appeal, first towards the republican mainstream issues of social conservatism, increased military posturing, reduced government interference and a smaller government. These goals are not supported by a majority of Americans, yet most voters are not familiar enough, or even inclined not to care with the consequences of these policies, should Paul or any of the other extreme republican presidential wannabes get elected. A less than 30% turnout in the 2012 elections is a case in point. Although many of their policies frighten me, their unanimous assault on government mandated regulations in consumer protection, banking, food inspections and environmental protection are particularly onerous in their long term consequences and in their designed intent to keep the gap between affluent and poor as wide as possible.
Ran Paul may accept global warming, but he is not convinced that it is mainly caused by humans. His views on the EPA's overreach, as well as his disdain for the Clean Water Act are well known and should be a cause of great concern to all voters. He even disses, as did some other conservatives, on the banning of certain incandescent light bulbs and was dismayed at EPA's low-flow toilet regulations (not too long ago he claimed that they do not flush properly, to which a blogger noted that even in Kentucky outhouses these toilets need to be connected to a water supply).
Ran Paul may accept global warming, but he is not convinced that it is mainly caused by humans. His views on the EPA's overreach, as well as his disdain for the Clean Water Act are well known and should be a cause of great concern to all voters. He even disses, as did some other conservatives, on the banning of certain incandescent light bulbs and was dismayed at EPA's low-flow toilet regulations (not too long ago he claimed that they do not flush properly, to which a blogger noted that even in Kentucky outhouses these toilets need to be connected to a water supply).
19
Ms. Collins, I enjoyed your use of the word "evolving" to denote Rand Paul's flip-flopping, especially since he was on the GOP "intelligent design" bandwagon a short four years ago, refusing to say how old he believes the earth is, while speaking before a Christian Homeschool Educators group. No evolution for Paul. At least, not yet.
Paul Rand, on the other hand, gave us a lifetime's development of beautiful, intelligent, graphic design.
Let's not confuse the two.
Besides, we've seen the GOP are very, very slow at truly evolving. A glacial pace.
Paul Rand, on the other hand, gave us a lifetime's development of beautiful, intelligent, graphic design.
Let's not confuse the two.
Besides, we've seen the GOP are very, very slow at truly evolving. A glacial pace.
16
How can take take seriously a man who checks which way the wind is blowing and "evolves" accordingly?
10
If there is anything that goes against Rand Paul in his bid for the Presidency, the one thing IMHO: His hair is not slicked back enough. Cruz, Rubio, Jindal (though hardly a candidate,) all have the 'slicked back' look. Rand Paul will never have that look, not with that mop!
5
Women should just accept the fact that they are inferior to men, bow down and worship Aqua Buddha, get and stay pregnant and never, never be disrespectful to any man named Rand, like Remington.
That any woman would even consider voting for this clown and his ilk is a complete mystery.
I repeat, would you allow this man anywhere near your eye with a sharp object?
That any woman would even consider voting for this clown and his ilk is a complete mystery.
I repeat, would you allow this man anywhere near your eye with a sharp object?
44
Thank you, thank you for Aqua Buddha! I look forward to reading more (mis)adventures with this little god throughout the presidential campaign.
Incidentally, did the young Mr. Paul tie up the "alleged" kidnapping victim before forcing her to pray on her knees to Aqua? Maybe he has issues with women generally rather than just those on T.V.
Well, perhaps Ms. Collins is right not to bring up wild activities of one's misspent youth. After all, it's clear that Mr. Paul has matured beyond that frat-party-boy to a Wikipedia quoting, complex thinker.
Incidentally, did the young Mr. Paul tie up the "alleged" kidnapping victim before forcing her to pray on her knees to Aqua? Maybe he has issues with women generally rather than just those on T.V.
Well, perhaps Ms. Collins is right not to bring up wild activities of one's misspent youth. After all, it's clear that Mr. Paul has matured beyond that frat-party-boy to a Wikipedia quoting, complex thinker.
19
Is anybody getting the feeling that Ron and Rand Paul are the American Le Pens. In both cases the child has gained political power solely due to the father and then tried to package the father's nutty message in a manner more acceptable to voters.
113
Even bad people can have good ideas. Its good to see libertarian principles discussed on the national stage, however inconsistently. Whether or not he succeeds Paul has helped bring issues like decriminalization, dis-incarceration, and demilitarization to the forefront. Real libertarians don't accept the rigged capital markets and the corrupt banking industry as examples of true capitalist free enterprise. I think libertarians see government creating the central structure of civic life as a problem, and see it better suited to being the referee, keeping the game in-bounds and fair. Not bad ideas at all.
1
Well said. Too bad conservatives and liberals really do think government should not only create the central structure of civic life, but control everything we do. After all, they know better....
Maybe Rand will choose his former white supremacist staffer as his vice president. He'd have every Southern vote.
21
Paul may not have said “Cry havoc and let slip the dogs of war” but that's certainly the underlying message in many Republican speeches, including his.
19
Can he perform eye surgery? Hmmmm. Rand has the same level of certification from the American Board of Ophthalmology as Minnie Mouse.
16
The quiz reveals the shallow nature of contemporary journalism when dealing with candidates for the world's most influential leader. Where is the deep analysis of the man's principles and politics? Instead, readers are supposed to be entertained by a few tidbits. I am questioning the value of my online subscription to the NYT.
1
Oh dear--you are seeking "deep analysis" of Rand Paul's "principles and politics"? All you need to do is consult Lucy from the Peanuts comic strip, who will psychoanalyze Rand Paul for 5 cents. Which seems an appropriate rate given the level of complexity of Rand Paul's "philosophy."
Or is that making too much fun out of such a "serious" candidate? It looks like you will have quite an ordeal ahead of you if you continue to seek profundity where there is none.
Or is that making too much fun out of such a "serious" candidate? It looks like you will have quite an ordeal ahead of you if you continue to seek profundity where there is none.
3
Gail as usual never fails to amuse. By the time Rand Paul actually has to debate anyone in the GOP primaries he will lay claim to being the most "severe conservative" in the pack and will be calling for the US to bomb Iran with the extra $190 billion. Republicans seem to like the convenience of flip-floppers as candidates so they can tell whatever audience they are in front of at the time what they think that they want to hear. It should be fun in that undoubtedly Rand will make one or more of his "goofball" statements during the primaries. But in the end the party elites do not like him and Jeb will get the nod.
11
"Wow, we're awash with first-term Republican senators who feel the nation needs their services as leader of the most powerful nation on the planet."
-Is the author suggesting that first-term senators are not mature enough for the office of POTUS, or just the republican ones?
-Is the author suggesting that first-term senators are not mature enough for the office of POTUS, or just the republican ones?
I say all of them. Governors make better presidents than senators, generally.
Have you ever been to a wonderful party, great food, great fun and great guests and then the guy walks in that is the irritating jerk that puts a damper on the whole affair. Enter Rand Paul.
20
Rand Paul is a closet racist. His father is an overt racist who published horrible racist newsletters. He has several racist cronies who he has never separated himself from and even one of his top aides is openly racist. The last thing this country needs now is more racial strife from the top down.
A close aide to Sen. Rand Paul (R-Ky.) is a former member of a pro-secessionist group who used to wear a luchador mask emblazoned with a Confederate flag under the moniker, "Southern Avenger."
Jack Hunter, Paul's director of new media, who also co-wrote Paul's 2011 book
The Tea Party Goes to Washington, is a former radio shock jock and former member of a neo-Confederate organization, according to a report in the Washington Free Beacon. Hunter is the second Paul staffer to have his troublesome views on racial issues revealed.
In the decade before he joined Paul's campaign, Hunter provided conservative commentary on the radio and on his website under the guise of his pseudonymous Southern character. In a 2004 article posted to his site and uncovered by the Free Beacon, titled "John Wilkes Booth Was Right," Hunter argued that "
Wilkes Booth's heart was in the right place," and that Lincoln was, in fact, "one of the worst figures in American history."
A close aide to Sen. Rand Paul (R-Ky.) is a former member of a pro-secessionist group who used to wear a luchador mask emblazoned with a Confederate flag under the moniker, "Southern Avenger."
Jack Hunter, Paul's director of new media, who also co-wrote Paul's 2011 book
The Tea Party Goes to Washington, is a former radio shock jock and former member of a neo-Confederate organization, according to a report in the Washington Free Beacon. Hunter is the second Paul staffer to have his troublesome views on racial issues revealed.
In the decade before he joined Paul's campaign, Hunter provided conservative commentary on the radio and on his website under the guise of his pseudonymous Southern character. In a 2004 article posted to his site and uncovered by the Free Beacon, titled "John Wilkes Booth Was Right," Hunter argued that "
Wilkes Booth's heart was in the right place," and that Lincoln was, in fact, "one of the worst figures in American history."
27
5) What is the biggest civil liberties issue in the history of the USA and who is the only contender for POTUS willing to confront it?
a) Hillary Clinton
b) Rand Paul
c) Jeb Bush
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8vFhXpfEfQg
[Dynasty, like fossil fuels, are so last century. You could almost produce a Russian doll with Hillary on the outside, then Jeb, then Hillary, then Jeb, etc.]
a) Hillary Clinton
b) Rand Paul
c) Jeb Bush
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8vFhXpfEfQg
[Dynasty, like fossil fuels, are so last century. You could almost produce a Russian doll with Hillary on the outside, then Jeb, then Hillary, then Jeb, etc.]
2
Folks like Randall are hilarious. I just wish they'd stop ruining our country and world.
19
We now have our second first term Republican Senator in the race, with one more (Rubio) likely to follow. Wonder if they'll be hit (as Obama repeatedly has been) with remarks about their inexperience, especially in the right wing media. I'm not holding my breath...
27
Rand Paul has always been a walking contradiction. A libertarian except on social issues such as drug policy, abortion and LGBT rights. An economic libertarian who supported some of GW Bush's unfunded social policies. A libertarian who claims to be a follower of the anti-religious Ayn Rand - except that he brings religion into his libertarianism.
But one thing Rand Paul is in the end - a faithful Republican who eventually changes any position outside of the republican hierarchy to scoot within the lines.
But one thing Rand Paul is in the end - a faithful Republican who eventually changes any position outside of the republican hierarchy to scoot within the lines.
35
"We have come to take our country back."
From whom? Me? – He can't have it. Its mine. Not his. That's stealing. And his jingoisitc assumption that there is something to "take back" is quite frankly downright dangerous. Really Rand? What else do you want to "take back" from me?
From whom? Me? – He can't have it. Its mine. Not his. That's stealing. And his jingoisitc assumption that there is something to "take back" is quite frankly downright dangerous. Really Rand? What else do you want to "take back" from me?
200
He's "come to take our country back" from the American people who overwhelmingly elected Barack Obama TWICE.
8
If you're a woman, your right to a safe and legal abortion.
5
Kevin – Yes, I know. But in stating as much, Rand Paul implies that "We've had our little fun play time for the past eight years, time for the grown-ups (read: old white Reaganite republicans) to be in charge again." Well, forget that – I'm old enough to have been down that road before.
Cheers!
Cheers!
10
Of all the republican looneys out there, I could tolerate Rand Paul because he had similar ideas to mine - cut defense spending, stop the drug laws, fix the prison sentencing, stop bowing down to Israel.... but now he just morphed into the rest of the clown car. Too bad.
16
Senator Paul's debut as a presidential candidate is eerily reminiscent of the Sarah Palin roll out. Give the base the red meat firebrand speeches, but duck the press and their difficult, "gotcha" questions. If caught, blame the press, claiming they have a leftist agenda to defeat this courageous voice representing ordinary Americans. In theory, the libertarian philosophy has a certain amount of appeal, especially to a younger electorate. Unfortunately for libertarians, Mr. Paul seems to have abandoned most libertarian positions already in an attempt to woe the crazier wing of the Republican party.
21
Mollie Ivens and Herb Block are laughing out loud up in the Humor of Politics Suite in Heaven!
Meanwhile, Romney is in the garage elevator in Home #1776, shaking his head, wondering why there's no mention of Seamus the dawg. When it's over, Mittens, it's over. Ask Rand next year.
Meanwhile, Romney is in the garage elevator in Home #1776, shaking his head, wondering why there's no mention of Seamus the dawg. When it's over, Mittens, it's over. Ask Rand next year.
17
I would have thought that Paul's infamous run-in with Rachel Maddow would have counted as the first of three incidences with TV women. But then again it happened more than five years ago (but certainly not before he went in to politics - as that was the whole point of his going on her show).
Aqua Buddha...
Sorry.
Aqua Buddha...
Sorry.
19
Paul continues the tradition of the doorknob Republican that can turn anyway or even complete 360 when he thinks it useful for his career. Lets see, Hiliary is double digits ahead of all Repubs and once these clowns get on a debate stage with ith her will he hgo "shhhh, settle down Hiliary and listen to this good old boy from kentucky splain things to you lil lady.
15
He is a joke!
18
There will never be a President Paul. He has to know that.
15
Ya, Rand Paul is such a libertarian. Never mind the personhood stuff, because maybe women don't belong on the libertarian tea party freedumb train. Never mind Paul's opposition to civil rights, I guess because minorities and colorful people don't belong on that train, either. And. as for posing as a doctor, Paul thinks measles vaccine causes mental problems in children, just like equally brainy Michelle Bachman, who believes HPV vaccine makes girls crazy. And like another famous tea partier, Ms. Palin, he has trouble with media folk, especially the female kind, asking questions about his changeable positions. So awful, those smarty pants gotcha women.
Ah, the republicans, so self-deluded, so buoyantly ignorant and. by God, so proud of it. So when a big stuffed squeaky Ted Cruz pops up with his communist Harvard record, everybody thinks he's brilliant, simply really bright. And when little kid prodigy Rand Paul bobs up so snarky and kind of like a whining buzz saw, everybody says how bright he is and a doctor, too! And a really clever plagiarist, too!
Paul surely belongs in the republican fun-house. We're told he has a certain appeal, and not just in comparison to the mob of republican hopefuls. Anybody who can say I told you so, in the direct, in-your-face way he does, so boldly and clear, with his funny, childlike, moussed-up hair, and make people listen, definitely has appeal. Doesn't he?
I just wish Paul's followers hated government enough to not vote.
Ah, the republicans, so self-deluded, so buoyantly ignorant and. by God, so proud of it. So when a big stuffed squeaky Ted Cruz pops up with his communist Harvard record, everybody thinks he's brilliant, simply really bright. And when little kid prodigy Rand Paul bobs up so snarky and kind of like a whining buzz saw, everybody says how bright he is and a doctor, too! And a really clever plagiarist, too!
Paul surely belongs in the republican fun-house. We're told he has a certain appeal, and not just in comparison to the mob of republican hopefuls. Anybody who can say I told you so, in the direct, in-your-face way he does, so boldly and clear, with his funny, childlike, moussed-up hair, and make people listen, definitely has appeal. Doesn't he?
I just wish Paul's followers hated government enough to not vote.
31
The man said that segregated lunch counters is a matter of personal freedom. Of course he's run shrieking from that one. Ideologues like Paul put themselves into traps of their own making. His father was more true to his mustang beliefs,which is why he would never be President. Rand turns out to be just another slippery politician.
127
I want to take back the use of political language.
The GOP seem to own: liberty, freedom, patriot, fiscal responsible, reform. job-creators, I'm not a scientist, homeland,family values and pro-life. How they legislate within the framework of that language is at best smoke and mirrors and very often counter to their slogans.
Rule: You can not be pro-life when you oppose SNAP or Medicaid. The fetus needs to be feed just like the mother.
The GOP seem to own: liberty, freedom, patriot, fiscal responsible, reform. job-creators, I'm not a scientist, homeland,family values and pro-life. How they legislate within the framework of that language is at best smoke and mirrors and very often counter to their slogans.
Rule: You can not be pro-life when you oppose SNAP or Medicaid. The fetus needs to be feed just like the mother.
14
I'm so very disappointed that the quiz did not include any questions about Paul Rand. ( http://www.paul-rand.com ).
3
"Defeat the Washington machine." -- He's a US Senator and in the Republican majority that shut down government, refuses to vote on appointments, refuses to address any issue seriously, etc. -- looks like he's part of the "Washington machine" that he wants to defeat.
Does a guy like Rand Paul even listen to his own babble and hear how ridiculous it sounds to people who can actually think?
Does a guy like Rand Paul even listen to his own babble and hear how ridiculous it sounds to people who can actually think?
23
Did any of the declared Republican candidates serve in the military? Short of that do any of them have a volunteering resume that they can be proud of?
Didn't Rand Paul somehow declare himself a Doctor when no one else would?
Now THAT is libertarian!
Didn't Rand Paul somehow declare himself a Doctor when no one else would?
Now THAT is libertarian!
14
No, he created his own board certification. Different matter.
2
Evolving from a libertarian reactionary into a war-mongering reactionary.
Yuck.
Yuck.
20
Evolved? You mean before some "handler" (read: keeper) fed him the answers he was supposed to give? Does he write stuff on the palm of his hand? Probably not enough room for all the stuff he doesn't know. Eye surgery? Thanks, I'll pass.
12
It would be easy enough to determine if Rand Paul has issues with women journalists. Let's have him sit across from Judy Woodruff or, better yet, Margaret Warner, both of PBS. Someone would have to sweep up the ashes. And much as I like the prospect of hearing about Aqua Buddha, somehow it doesn't have the resonance of the dog on the roof. But, yes, let's release the Kraken.
17
FYI, Bashar al-Assad can also do eye surgery -hmmm! Let the jokes begin!
13
So in other words Gail, he is both an eye surgeon and an 'I surgeon', skillfully utilizing a scalpel to remake himself on a daily basis. Perhaps he ought to change specialties, going over to cosmetic surgery, since he has proven to be so adept at shape-shifting.
13
Rand Paul is named for Ayn Rand, and has done a great job fulfilling that legacy.
It's really all you need to know.
It's really all you need to know.
130
There are many bad things about him but this alas is untrue.
Actually, his name is Randal, not Rand. He's not actually named for Ayn Rand.
1
Let's not forget that Rand Paul created his own medical board to certify him. I believe that he put his wife, a non-physican, in charge of the board. I find libertarians are people who just don't believe that rules apply to them!
213
Am I the only one who noticed that in his speech, Rand Paul said he would run for president with "the Constitution in one hand, and the Bill of Rights in the other?"
This from the party that claims to love the Constitution so much.
This from the party that claims to love the Constitution so much.
124
Rand Paul doesn't even begin to understand "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibit the free exercise thereof" as he calls for faith based legislation and the classification of public harassment as a form of worship of God.
4
As the Bill of Rights is part of the Constitution I wonder if he's indicting he intends to rip it out.
3
My Uncle Mickey would be a good candidate for president. He's nuts too. If he hadn't died a few years back, I'd tell him to run. He's as qualified as this guy. He'd campaign in a Italian-American t-shirt, boxer shorts and black support hose with house slippers. He lived his life that way and he'd stay true to his self.
17
In the early days of his Senate campaign, I attended a rally where he was the headliner. I had to see what the hype was all about. And what I found were followers (yes, like a cult) who scared the crap out of me. They were the worst form of Kentucky stereotype one could find: An all-white crowd of gun fanatics with the theme of "Don't Tread on Me." Far from being enlightened, I was frightened. He hadn't been flipping enough to be able to flop, so his footwear issues these days are, frankly, the least of our worries.
He's not ready for big-time politics. And he's certainly not ready to govern.
He's not ready for big-time politics. And he's certainly not ready to govern.
172
And I would bet many of those "don't tread on me" followers in Kentucky get some kind of aid check, Disability, Medicaid, or Medicare, or SSI. I'm in Missouri, and some of the most rural areas in the Ozarks are similar : they vote "God and Guns, Anti-Government" (so they think) but also have the highest percentage in the state receiving state or federal disability checks, food stamps, etc.
The moderate locals in some areas of south Missouri where I last visited said you can easily tell when the disability checks arrive. The pick-up trucks roll into Wal-Mart. There are numerous billboards in the area for lawyers specializing in getting disability payments.
The moderate locals in some areas of south Missouri where I last visited said you can easily tell when the disability checks arrive. The pick-up trucks roll into Wal-Mart. There are numerous billboards in the area for lawyers specializing in getting disability payments.
4
Green and not ready to govern. Sounds like our latest first-term Senator to become president.
If Rand Paul is evolving, he's apparently the only Republican who believes in evolution. Now let's see how long it takes for survival of the fittest to pick him off.
17
puppies? really?
38
Paul's Shamus moment.
But the evangelical Christian god who Rand Paul mentioned first during his announcement does not believe in evolution nor change since He first created the eternally truthful universe 6400 years ago.
Rand Howard Paul has all of the condescending paternalistic imperious intemperate reckless fickle ignorant immature misogynistic manner of an Anglo-American prince. Another Prince John Sidney McCain III or Prince Willard Mitt Romney or Prince George Walker Bush clone is one prince too many.
Too bad that Prince Rand is no exciting new age libertarian like Prince Rogers Nelson or Prince Henry Tudor.
Rand Howard Paul has all of the condescending paternalistic imperious intemperate reckless fickle ignorant immature misogynistic manner of an Anglo-American prince. Another Prince John Sidney McCain III or Prince Willard Mitt Romney or Prince George Walker Bush clone is one prince too many.
Too bad that Prince Rand is no exciting new age libertarian like Prince Rogers Nelson or Prince Henry Tudor.
14
The trite line, take our country back requires a few more words to understand. In this case its not back from someone or something but rather, back to the 18th century.
13
Re: ''Paul can also perform eye surgery, which is certainly a plus.'' Really?
Since 2005 Rand Paul has not been certified by any board recognized by the state of Kentucky, and since 2011 has had no certification at all. He was asked by the Washington Post why he continues to hold himself out as a “certified” ophthalmologist, and whether he has taken any continuing education since he was originally certified? He refused to answer.
Since 2005 Rand Paul has not been certified by any board recognized by the state of Kentucky, and since 2011 has had no certification at all. He was asked by the Washington Post why he continues to hold himself out as a “certified” ophthalmologist, and whether he has taken any continuing education since he was originally certified? He refused to answer.
18
Isn't funny that Paul would back away from some spending cuts, choosing to add spending to defense, leaving the needy defenseless?
After he eliminates Obamacare, he and his partner, Dr, I. C, Spotts, might offer free eye exams to those needy he left hanging out to dry,
After he eliminates Obamacare, he and his partner, Dr, I. C, Spotts, might offer free eye exams to those needy he left hanging out to dry,
15
Wow! His pre-2009 stands could get him elected as a third party candidate.
He lost me when he suggested raising more foreign aid for BiBi. Now that's almost as reckless as Tom Cotton suggesting two days of bombs would settle the Iran negotiations.
Look out, ladies! Your interview with Rand will either make you feel uncomfortable or think twice about your next doctor's appointment.
He lost me when he suggested raising more foreign aid for BiBi. Now that's almost as reckless as Tom Cotton suggesting two days of bombs would settle the Iran negotiations.
Look out, ladies! Your interview with Rand will either make you feel uncomfortable or think twice about your next doctor's appointment.
15
Why do I think that the Aqua Buddha is about to become the new "dog tied to the car roof"?
8
The apple doesn't fall very far from the tree. In this case, it's somewhere between gold-standard dad and namesake Ayn. For a hilarious look at the latter, see the aptly titled "How Is This Still A Thing?" item from John Oliver's show:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_8m8cQI4DgM
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_8m8cQI4DgM
14
What are Rand Paul´s credentials? He has no experience in business, nor is he a professional accountant, a lawyer or an economist, all areas in which he imagines he has some authority. He has hardly any political experience except to be riding on his father´s coattails. Yet he has no qualms about broadcasting his abject distain for government so deep it´s a wonder how he can bear to work there let alone have presidential aspirations. And he´s an amateurish quibbler ... he has railed erroneously about the Clean Water Act’s effect on his toilets, indelicately carping about the “nanny state” in relation to seat-belt laws. Yes, seat-belt laws. He also doesn´t hesitate to mindlessly take pot shots at more weighty issues like civil rights,the legalization of drugs, drones, wars, and the budget, but inspiring nothing more than a ho-hum response. And get this ... this outspoken obstructionist novice senator is an ophthalmologist - that´s what he trained to be and what he is. He claimed falsely he was Board Certified. When asked about it, he said he wouldn't respond because it had nothing to do with running for office. You can´t make this stuff up.
23
Having watched "Mississippi Burning" last evening, it's krystal klear to me which country they want back, and it's equally klear why they want the federal government out of their lives. Everything worked just fine until those communist atheist rainbow-wearing feds insisted that postbellum America be different from antebellum America.
38
Am I the only one who thinks Rand Paul should be strapped to the top of a car and driven on a long, long vacation somewhere?
27
Preferably out of the country.
1
Great exposure. Are we getting this type of contender because it's a show biz scene fed by money rather than the long real struggle to get experience and meaningful power? I know it's a controversial statement for some but at least Bush has governed and HRC has served and served...on that basis alone I say leave the others to Entertainment Tonight.
7
Biggest batch of dangerous snake oil salesmen yet, and we've just started!
25
Does anyone else feel like he's a yuppie incarnation of W.C. Fields?
20
"Nothing Rand Paul said before 2010 counts." I'd suggest that nothing Rand Paul said AFTER 2010 counts, either.
61
I had to look up Kraken and Aqua Buddha. What planet is this again?
6
Who is Rand Paul? Is he an Opthamologist or not? It seems when he was not given a certificate to practice he created his own certifying organization and gave himself one. I am not sure about this, but are we sure about anything concerning this man? Is he only a 19th century snake oil salesman? Is he someone I really want to get to know? a flim flam man
just another face in this motley Republican crowd. Will he do away with the ACA which is very popular in Kentucky just to show he will follow the leader even if it hurts his state, but that is what republicans do. Perhaps he will give us all glasses so we can see him better, but does he really want us to see him?
just another face in this motley Republican crowd. Will he do away with the ACA which is very popular in Kentucky just to show he will follow the leader even if it hurts his state, but that is what republicans do. Perhaps he will give us all glasses so we can see him better, but does he really want us to see him?
22
I remember when Pat Buchanan said "It's our country and we're going to take it back" or something like that. Same dog whistle. BTW I'll be waiting for the first time Rand Paul puts his index finger to his lips and says "shhhushh-sshhushh" to a male interviewer on TV. And no fair bringing up things he said in the past, or his plagiarist speechifying, that makes him angry too.
59
While all MDs who want an accreditation in a specialty take the official Boards to qualify as a true specialist--Rand created his own 'institute' which he had grant him his own 'certification.'
So- not only did he feel above the need for a B.A. (which obviously involves considerable socialization, intellectual enrichment and discipline, not just test-taking fact smarts) - he felt above for the rules of Opthamology !
This is a temperament issue... suggesting rigidity, inability to accept The Rules- a psychological problem beneath his libertarian stance. Even the rules of consistency now get short shrift.
Who would want a self-accredited doctor to perform complex eye surgery on them ? Not me.
So- not only did he feel above the need for a B.A. (which obviously involves considerable socialization, intellectual enrichment and discipline, not just test-taking fact smarts) - he felt above for the rules of Opthamology !
This is a temperament issue... suggesting rigidity, inability to accept The Rules- a psychological problem beneath his libertarian stance. Even the rules of consistency now get short shrift.
Who would want a self-accredited doctor to perform complex eye surgery on them ? Not me.
19
Never talk politics with any doctor; they think they know everything. No sooner would I have a doctor give me points on politics and humanities than I would hand a philosopher a scalpal.
1
Someone already commented on this, but yes, this headline promises something it does not deliver for anyone familiar with the legendary graphic designer and Yale professor Paul Rand who designed, for example, the IBM, UPS, ABC, and Westinghouse logos.
44
So, Ms Collins supports only those politicians who do not alter their policies in response to poll results. An anarchist then.
18
Ms. Collins would be hard pressed to name one politician who doesn't change positions, for lots of reasons, especially presidential candidates. This is a "Dog Bites Man!" article.
Ah the clown car that is the GOP primaries! With apologies to clowns everywhere.
One would think that even if your candidate hasn't been accused of flip flopping campaign staffers would know to NEVER use the term "flip flops" on a website or elsewhere (never know when they will be accused).
One would think that even if your candidate hasn't been accused of flip flopping campaign staffers would know to NEVER use the term "flip flops" on a website or elsewhere (never know when they will be accused).
6
"You might wonder about Rand Paul and TV women, but as we all know it takes three incidents to make a trend. Next time."
Well, let's add back the first time, with Rachel Maddow.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=27r0y8hZGRo
That easily gets us to three, and Rand Paul's charm.
Well, let's add back the first time, with Rachel Maddow.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=27r0y8hZGRo
That easily gets us to three, and Rand Paul's charm.
10
Watching him squirm and dodge and avoid making answers relevent to the questions Maddow asked tells me all I need to know about this Artful Dodger.
1
My suggestion- wait on your decision about voting for Rand Paul.
He's obviously in a dynamic state- ever changing. So allow him to continue doing so, even if it takes another 20, 30 or 40 more years. In all probability we will still need presidential candidates for the 2036 election and beyond! So by the grace of Aqua Whatever, please be patient.
He's obviously in a dynamic state- ever changing. So allow him to continue doing so, even if it takes another 20, 30 or 40 more years. In all probability we will still need presidential candidates for the 2036 election and beyond! So by the grace of Aqua Whatever, please be patient.
10
There WAS a third incident with a female newscaster and that would be Paul's appearance on the Rachel Maddow show several years ago.
7
So apparently some members of the GOP believe in evolution after all!
7
I saw the headline, but missed a mention of Paul Rand, the designer of the IBM, and other LOGOs. Not that the article needed it, but it is neat trivia.
Peretz Rosenbaum changed his name to Paul Rand, and achieved fame "ALA Raymond Loewy" as an inustrial and graphics designer.
I am a great fan of yours, but I am prejudiced, since I always agree with you!
Keep it up!
Peretz Rosenbaum changed his name to Paul Rand, and achieved fame "ALA Raymond Loewy" as an inustrial and graphics designer.
I am a great fan of yours, but I am prejudiced, since I always agree with you!
Keep it up!
7
I just like to find out from whom he wants to take the country back. Can't be the one percenters as he wants to give them a huge tax break with his flat tax. No taxes on interest or dividends. Makes all income taxed at one rate. But of course he's hoping that wage earners are too dumb to know that many of them pay more in payroll taxes such as Medicare, Medicarid, Workers Comp in many states, than they do in income tax.
13
As with every disastrous GOP candidate we know enough now to ever proclaim "we didn't know."
4
It's simple. Rand Paul has flip flop in mouth disease. Doctor heal thyself (and stop blaming others).
13
Paul Rand's legacy will prove more enduring. Just for starters, there's the ABC TV logo, a Rand design essentially unchanged since its 1962 debut.
4
For Paul to win the nomination he would have to pull off the most spectacular political contortionist performance of all time. Will be interesting to see if he keeps to his agenda while campaigning is such disparate states as New Hampshire (where he may have some folks drinking his Kool-Aid) and Iowa. Can't wait for the Republican debates to see him go toe-to-toe with the rest of these clowns. He may actually look electable in comparison! If asked about his favorite color, he would probably respond by saying "plaid."
9
Would anyone really want Rand to do eye surgery on them? He hasn't practiced for a long while and he board certified himself so... I'd suggest caution.
One term Senators should not be allowed to run for President! (I love Elizabeth Warren and she has much more experience than these guys. But there is time.) Haven't we learned our lesson. I want someone with a bit more experience and, dare I say it knowledge, not the most recent celebrity who says something amazingly stupid, pithy, obnoxious ..... That what seems to apply to the new crop of GOP new kids on the block.
I definitely don't want boys, I do mean boys, like Rand, Tom Cotton or Ted Cruz who think they have been anointed by you know who to lead this nation!
I want some adults to run for President. A faint hope I know but where there is life there is hope.
One term Senators should not be allowed to run for President! (I love Elizabeth Warren and she has much more experience than these guys. But there is time.) Haven't we learned our lesson. I want someone with a bit more experience and, dare I say it knowledge, not the most recent celebrity who says something amazingly stupid, pithy, obnoxious ..... That what seems to apply to the new crop of GOP new kids on the block.
I definitely don't want boys, I do mean boys, like Rand, Tom Cotton or Ted Cruz who think they have been anointed by you know who to lead this nation!
I want some adults to run for President. A faint hope I know but where there is life there is hope.
11
Rand is a LINO, Libertarian in name only.
12
From this point on Randall will say whatever it is that his handlers (kochs, adelsons, other oligarchs) want him to say.
Let's remember the time in the 19th Century when oligarchs convinced poor southerners to go to war for them and their interests. We call that period the Civil War and it ended badly for all concerned. (Remember that the epitome of an oligarch is someone who owns someone else.)
If we allow the kochs and adelsons to buy the next election we will find, as the world found in the 20th Century, that fascism once seated at the controls of government will not freely give up those controls.
We can stop fascism in 2016 with ballots; if we don't it will take bullets.
Let's remember the time in the 19th Century when oligarchs convinced poor southerners to go to war for them and their interests. We call that period the Civil War and it ended badly for all concerned. (Remember that the epitome of an oligarch is someone who owns someone else.)
If we allow the kochs and adelsons to buy the next election we will find, as the world found in the 20th Century, that fascism once seated at the controls of government will not freely give up those controls.
We can stop fascism in 2016 with ballots; if we don't it will take bullets.
17
"Rand Paul can also perform eye surgery"
Thanks' but I prefer my eye surgeries be performed by doctors certified by actual opthamology boards, rather than the "doctor" himself.
But in fairness to Rand Paul, he was probably too busy reading Ayn Rand's cartoonish "novels", to learn enough to pass the actual exam.
Thanks' but I prefer my eye surgeries be performed by doctors certified by actual opthamology boards, rather than the "doctor" himself.
But in fairness to Rand Paul, he was probably too busy reading Ayn Rand's cartoonish "novels", to learn enough to pass the actual exam.
13
Rand Paul claims to be a libertarian thanks to his father's influence. Otherwise, his presidential ambitions demand political expedience, and flip-flopping as the need arises. Hypocrisy for all to see; as flawed as the next one.
3
When you go to share the Rand Paul Sandals on Facebook, they still come up Flip Flops. Some things never evolve.
https://store.randpaul.com/index.php/fun-stuff/rand-paul-flip-flops.html
https://store.randpaul.com/index.php/fun-stuff/rand-paul-flip-flops.html
3
Bibi Netanyahu had a major influence on the Republicans. Do anything and say anything to win an election,
11
I draw the line at even considering someone for president who plagiarized an academic paper. Once a cheater, always a cheater; lazy scholar = lazy work ethic. I think that statute of limitations is still in effect; indeed, you can should go back to college years. People don't change. They just become "more of" whatever they've always been.
13
If he evolves any more he'll turn into a Texan.
3
Lacking in character and honesty (see Rand Paul plagiarism, serial), glowing with narcissistic tendencies, and notably intemperate, especially when addressing women point to a short, interesting campaign.
13
Of course politics should involve more puppies (as long as they are not made to ride on the roofs of cars). We need more diversion from the sorry state of our nation and the world. Pay no attention to the man behind the litter of puppies.
10
Interesting that you left out what Acqua Buddha was used for: it's a bong to smoke marijuana. It will be interesting to see whether Paul will be a "libertarian" advocate of his former habit of getting high or just close down federal spying on his private bong parties.
12
Seems as if he no longer has anything to do with the Libertarian Party. Only because he discovered there are not enough of them to elect him. He'll do or say whatever is best for votes.
8
John, wait until Paul sees the writing on the wall and is forced to drop out of the Republican race. He'll run to his father and get the Libertarian nomination.
1
As this guy won't attract enough billionaire cash to stay in the race, columns like this one will make it easy to get rid of him by ridicule. Wish one could say the same for Cruz, Walker and the others
13
Mr Paul claimed that he knew of many “walking, talking, normal children who wound up with profound mental disorders” after being vaccinated. I guess most of them are now members of Congress.
25
As I try to imagine Rand Paul frolicking at one of Ayn Rand's parties I cannot help but feel that some somehow Senator Paul and Libertarian don't belong in the same universe. Even being brought up in a left of center universe the Libertarian world of Ayn Rand and Milton Friedman is way beyond my comfort level. We aren't talking nudist camp here we are talking Caligula. Maybe Senator Paul is contemplating a clothing optional White House with only consenting adults admitted. It certainly would cut the cost of secret service when the transparency of what everyone at the White House had on their mind was in plain view and concealed weapons existed only outside the gates. Are we sure that Aqua Buddha isn't just a mistaken identity for Eros?
9
Gail, Is it true that Dr. Paul was named after a certain novelist of a libertarian kind whose first name was Ayn? Could you look into this?
2
I never thought I would say this, but actually getting excited about the upcoming election cycle. No sports event, no reality TV, not even Netflix or HBO will top the fall Republican line-up. To increase ratings, I would suggest that news outlets reduce to a minimum the time their news anchors and pundits talk, and instead, just play a daily montage of Republican speeches, interviews, and policy pronouncements --- no "analysis", just let Paul and Cruz and Hucklebee and Rubio, and Christie, and Perry, share their wisdom with all of us.
12
All these folks that want to take our country back. I think that might mean take it back about 300 years.
26
"Except — stop the presses! — Rand Paul is also evolving."
His efforts at "evolving" will be about as fruitful as teaching evolution to a bunch of creationists, one of the core constituencies of the GOP.
His efforts at "evolving" will be about as fruitful as teaching evolution to a bunch of creationists, one of the core constituencies of the GOP.
106
Hey Gail - leave Paul Rand out of this!
39
Aaaaahhh, those Libertarians with the chants of "more freedom." Since a few friends I have known since childhood latched on to Ayn Rand's self-centered screeds about "taking responsibility for ourselves" and basically allowing the laws of natural selection rule the world, I have found it increasingly maddening to listen to the likes of Rand Paul. Every time he speaks, I am reminded of those bumper stickers his ilk like to wear so proudly, "Who is John Gault?"
Well, here is the answer to that question as it applies to Libertarians: it is about going beyond the idea of self-centered existence. It is a theory devoid of empath and compassion. It's all quite conditional for this group, of course. Empathy and compassion are customized to fit the most comfortable situation they are in at the moment. They see all poor and sick people as victims of self-destructive behavior. They also accept the idea that while Wall Street greedlings may have acted improperly, they must be smarter than the rest of us and therefore deserve the bounty of their greed — and their political influence. Once again, natural selection in a survival-of-the-fittest scenario is the proper role of society and a minimalist government.
Ironically, this is the same chant coming from right-wing conservative Christians eager to dismantle the separation of church and state to created a theocracy. Yet, while embracing the Bible, they are ignoring Jesus' voice of empathy and compassion. How convenient.
Well, here is the answer to that question as it applies to Libertarians: it is about going beyond the idea of self-centered existence. It is a theory devoid of empath and compassion. It's all quite conditional for this group, of course. Empathy and compassion are customized to fit the most comfortable situation they are in at the moment. They see all poor and sick people as victims of self-destructive behavior. They also accept the idea that while Wall Street greedlings may have acted improperly, they must be smarter than the rest of us and therefore deserve the bounty of their greed — and their political influence. Once again, natural selection in a survival-of-the-fittest scenario is the proper role of society and a minimalist government.
Ironically, this is the same chant coming from right-wing conservative Christians eager to dismantle the separation of church and state to created a theocracy. Yet, while embracing the Bible, they are ignoring Jesus' voice of empathy and compassion. How convenient.
39
Please note my post above. You are again confusing Ayn Rand's "Objectivism" with Libertarianism...two similar appearing but actually very different political philosophies. Where Rand was effectively a social Darwinist, true Libertarian thinkers were (are) more classical liberals, relying heavily on the (secular) Doctrine of Subsidiarity that accepted the necessity for certain governmental actions based on the analysis that smaller political units were not capable of carrying them out. Many (granted, old school) Libertarians saw themselves as equally "Responsibilitarians" within society, and all that implies. Those who throw the name around today have little understanding of what it means, and are primarily motivated by a desire to shirk community responsibility in favor of lower taxes and to maximize their 2nd amendment gun fetish. Ayn Rand suits them fine for this, but they are hardly principled Libertarians.
1
For over fifty years the medical schools in the United States have accepted applicants following three years of college and without attaining a bachelor's degree. This was my experience in 1958. It makes perfect sense given all of the years of subsequent medical training. The fact that Ms Collins was unaware of this says much more about her than it does about Rand Paul.
3
The fact that our training system apparently does not insist on turning out well-rounded humanists but is satisfied with narrow technicians - immersed in the what and how, not so big on the why - the better to get on with raking in the loot, says much more about our system than about Ms Collins or Mr Paul. What it says is not complimentary.
1
Really it's just trivia. I doubt Gail cares, and I doubt most people care. I personally don't care. A Rand Paul supporter who puts "MD" in his online alias would certainly care.
Exactly which part of Ms. Collins' article demonstrates her ignorance as to this practice by medical schools?
Your demonstrably erroneous reading and baseless implication say far more about your comprehension, clarity of thought, and capacity for impartiality than the article does about either Mr. Paul or Ms. Collins.
Your demonstrably erroneous reading and baseless implication say far more about your comprehension, clarity of thought, and capacity for impartiality than the article does about either Mr. Paul or Ms. Collins.
9
Rand Paul and his campaign staffers know full well that he will never, ever win the Republican nomination if he really sticks to his libertarian guns. So it's quite predictable to watch him "evolve" on certain issues -- i.e., drop everything on the left side of the libertarian spectrum.
He can prevaricate all day long, but the end result will be to make him into an intellectually dishonest political hack, a purported conservative under a greasy patina of phony libertarianism. I doubt the Republican base will buy it.
He can prevaricate all day long, but the end result will be to make him into an intellectually dishonest political hack, a purported conservative under a greasy patina of phony libertarianism. I doubt the Republican base will buy it.
10
He won't BECOME a political hack, just an ever changing brand.
No, no, no, no, no, no, no, no, no, no! See, you're editorializing here and that's not acceptable! Please don't bring up the past. I'm moving forward! Can't you tell!! Geeeez....
17
It would be preferable to have the great modern designer and advertising art director Paul Rand run for president. But, he's been gone for nearly 20 years.
6
"Wow, we’re awash with first-term Republican senators who feel the nation needs their services as leader of the most powerful nation on the planet." But, then ... this same state shouldn't disqualify Elizabeth Warren from serving as the Kraken we all seek to unleash upon America. And, while Sen. Paul's ability to perform eye surgery could be a plus in a president, Sen. Warren's specialization at Harvard in teaching bankruptcy law certainly would be a plus in an America whose states are so close to that condition.
Senator Liz is evolving, too. Once, she claimed she was part-Cherokee, no doubt from America's only blonde, blue-eyed tribe of Native Americans; but, these days, she sticks to her REAL purpose in life, which apparently is to force Hillary temporarily a few feet left of her normal stance about midway between the center-line and the far-left wall, held up by no less than the Kraken herself, recently escaped from being turned into a Republican by exposure to the stare of Ted Cruz.
5) The chances of Rand Paul surviving his party's primaries and caucuses to secure its 2016 nomination for president is to Elizabeth Warren's chances to do the same on the Democratic side ... as:
A) Bernie Sanders agreeing to do a telethon for Sheldon Adelson;
B) Charles Koch agreeing to underwrite a new monument to Karl Marx;
C) Iran not lying and cheating on its obligations under the deal framework negotiated by Mr. Obama's surrogates.
(Take your pick, it really doesn't matter.)
Senator Liz is evolving, too. Once, she claimed she was part-Cherokee, no doubt from America's only blonde, blue-eyed tribe of Native Americans; but, these days, she sticks to her REAL purpose in life, which apparently is to force Hillary temporarily a few feet left of her normal stance about midway between the center-line and the far-left wall, held up by no less than the Kraken herself, recently escaped from being turned into a Republican by exposure to the stare of Ted Cruz.
5) The chances of Rand Paul surviving his party's primaries and caucuses to secure its 2016 nomination for president is to Elizabeth Warren's chances to do the same on the Democratic side ... as:
A) Bernie Sanders agreeing to do a telethon for Sheldon Adelson;
B) Charles Koch agreeing to underwrite a new monument to Karl Marx;
C) Iran not lying and cheating on its obligations under the deal framework negotiated by Mr. Obama's surrogates.
(Take your pick, it really doesn't matter.)
1
I have family members who are absolutely one-quarter Japanese, (Japanese grandmother is my sister-in-law) and yet who have blonde hair and blue eyes. I have a friend who is half-Japanese, who has reddish-blonde hair and freckles. The idea that Elizabeth Warren's Cherokee heritage could be disproven by a simple glance at her appearance is not true.
39
Elizabeth Warren never claimed to be Cherokee. Someone else said she was probably part Cherokee. Given where she comes from that may well be true. However, she has never received or asked for special treatment based upon her heritage. And yes, due to all the mixed marriages, her blue eyes are not a way of deciding if she's Native American or not. I've met quite a few people who are part African American and have blue or green eyes. It's quite striking and not unusual.
22
Who said anything about disqualifying Sen. Paul? Let him expose his evolving ideas to the public and engage in robust, open debate about them.
I, for one, would love to see a debate between the freshman senator from Kentucky and the freshman Senator from Massachusetts. A real debate, not one where the person talking the loudest and interrupting the most wins.
Besides, it's not the freshman aspect of candidates like Senators Paul and Cruz, that is concerning. It's their sophomoric aspect: clinging to adolescent political fancies and believing that the clever riposte is a substitute for thoughtful policy.
I, for one, would love to see a debate between the freshman senator from Kentucky and the freshman Senator from Massachusetts. A real debate, not one where the person talking the loudest and interrupting the most wins.
Besides, it's not the freshman aspect of candidates like Senators Paul and Cruz, that is concerning. It's their sophomoric aspect: clinging to adolescent political fancies and believing that the clever riposte is a substitute for thoughtful policy.
7
Oh my. would you take your eyes to this guy? Macular degeneration one moment, 20-20 forever the next....after you ingest some pills he has an investment in. Seriously folks, all you need to know about this phony baloney is to look at his position on that wacko rancher out in Nevada. Paul was knee deep in conspiracies flung about by a absolutely nutty racist right wing talk guy. Get on this one Gail.
I remember that a thin skinned Texas-bred university president in Boston ran for governor and made the mistake of savaging a very popular local newscaster when she applied some journalistic heat. Whoops, that election was lost. Paul has shown his true colors. If he was nutty when Guthrie pressed him on rather public positions but wait til someone looks carefully at his involvement in Nevada craziness. Put a guy like this near a red button????? Not sure he could see what he was doing and bye bye world.
I remember that a thin skinned Texas-bred university president in Boston ran for governor and made the mistake of savaging a very popular local newscaster when she applied some journalistic heat. Whoops, that election was lost. Paul has shown his true colors. If he was nutty when Guthrie pressed him on rather public positions but wait til someone looks carefully at his involvement in Nevada craziness. Put a guy like this near a red button????? Not sure he could see what he was doing and bye bye world.
7
Paul will trip up over his constant flip-flops. He's the master of the waffle and turns hostile when interviewed by the ladies. Paul would be fun to watch if the the 2016 election weren't so depressing.
14
Two of the GOP's more entertaining clowns have now formally come out of the Presidential closet. I'm beginning to understanding a child's fear of clowns.
47
Puppies, eye surgery, that's it? And flip-flops. The problem with (Also) Ran Paul being president, besides his having two first names (which I always have to stop to remember which to say first) is that first he has to run for President at which he continues to be really bad, and first, his father will always be his first advisor (don't kid yourself).
3
Yes, I still remember seeing little hand-made "Paul for President" signs, by the side of the road. Hilarious.
1
Let's give Rand Paul, Paul Rand, another 4 years to evolve into a possible candidate for the Republican Party's Presidential nod. He's still trying on different personas, different evolutions, like the emperor in his new clothes. Though Dr. Paul is an ophthalmologist, can't he see it's not yet his time to run for POTUS? Being a freshman senator, which is what Rand is, will do him no more good than the same will do for his senatorial and GOP colleague, Ted Cruz. diddly, zip, zero. Fine quiz, Gail, thank you. Do we get something beyond kudos for answering your questions correctly? A free lunch? A lump of coal? Please keep your nifty pop quizzes coming at us - they are the sugar and spice of your opinion pieces!
9
Please stop calling him a Libertarian. He is a theocrat.
And, as far a surveillance, his distaste for it only goes for governments (and watch that position evolve too), but if a company can make money off of snooping, he is all for it.
And, as far a surveillance, his distaste for it only goes for governments (and watch that position evolve too), but if a company can make money off of snooping, he is all for it.
24
Not much of a quiz, half of what you write here has been debunked long ago. Use sources like Mother Jones is laughable as well.
The biggest problem I have with your "quiz" is that answers are complicated in that there really are not just black and white responses and nearly everything you write has part that you left off that makes Rand's what you call evolving make sense. Rand's policies are only evolving if the dynamics have changed around the world or here at home.
In 2007 ISIS did not exist and we're not murdering thousands of Christians - but wait here is a quiz when was the last time you wrote about the murder of thousands and thousands of women, men and children Christians - answer Never.
Here is another quiz for you, since Hilllary is probably going to go to jail over her email and personal server issues and more than likely the chinese and Russians will release the server info they hacked, how long in jail do you think Hillary will get? Or do you think Hillary will use her brain damage from that bump on the head as an excuse and get herself off the hook?
Obviously Hillary will now never be President, it's over, who do you think should run in the Democrat side?
The biggest problem I have with your "quiz" is that answers are complicated in that there really are not just black and white responses and nearly everything you write has part that you left off that makes Rand's what you call evolving make sense. Rand's policies are only evolving if the dynamics have changed around the world or here at home.
In 2007 ISIS did not exist and we're not murdering thousands of Christians - but wait here is a quiz when was the last time you wrote about the murder of thousands and thousands of women, men and children Christians - answer Never.
Here is another quiz for you, since Hilllary is probably going to go to jail over her email and personal server issues and more than likely the chinese and Russians will release the server info they hacked, how long in jail do you think Hillary will get? Or do you think Hillary will use her brain damage from that bump on the head as an excuse and get herself off the hook?
Obviously Hillary will now never be President, it's over, who do you think should run in the Democrat side?
"Obviously" is the sign of a weak argument. And the only reason Mother Jones is "laughable" is the same reason Hillary's "over": They're both female.
4
You are joking? Don't you realize April Fool's Day was last week?
2
Strange that you list zero items that have "been debunked."
As to Hillary going to jail, and I would never vote for her myself, that's about as likely as the moon falling into the sun in our lifetimes.
As to Hillary going to jail, and I would never vote for her myself, that's about as likely as the moon falling into the sun in our lifetimes.
2
Another example, as if one is needed, of political doublespeak.
Is there any way we, uneducated voters, can have truthful pols running for the Top Job?
Yeah, Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren!
Is there any way we, uneducated voters, can have truthful pols running for the Top Job?
Yeah, Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren!
3
Now that's a good one. "Before I was involved with politics!" So what he's actually saying is, "Pay no attention to what I really think, now I'm in politics, so I'll say whatever it takes to get elected."
9
Paul's quandary in the muck of the GOP primary season forcing candidates to the extreme right is why a republican will not be elected president in 2016. They will wallow there for endless months arguing against science, calling for more wars and doing everything to alienate the diverse American public that is far different from their Christian evangelical base.
It's not only Paul's dilemma but same for Bush, Rubio, Christie, etc.
It's not only Paul's dilemma but same for Bush, Rubio, Christie, etc.
2
My question is: Rand Paul sells flip-flops? Huh? What? Oh, I mean 'sandals'. So candidates now sell shoes?
I really need to stop paying attention. It's all becoming so silly. America. The 'Silly Nation'.
I really need to stop paying attention. It's all becoming so silly. America. The 'Silly Nation'.
9
Living right across the river from Kentucky we get a lot of Rand Paul, probably more Rand Paul than a normal sane person wants or needs. However, what I have noticed about him, in terms of all the potential male candidates on the GOP side is that he has killer, killer hair.
I don't know what he does to it or what products he uses on a daily basis but I think if he started to focus on this, he could probably win back some of the women and fashionista voters that have abdicated away from the GOP because of the parties desire to take us back to the bouffant and Brylcream era.
So if I were his campaign advisor and I'm sure after he reads this I'll be getting some calls from his handlers or at least his stylist, I'd stay away from policy statements, which will just flip flop and confuse voters and focus on my best asset, just looking good, looking sharp and looking for some political love.
I don't know what he does to it or what products he uses on a daily basis but I think if he started to focus on this, he could probably win back some of the women and fashionista voters that have abdicated away from the GOP because of the parties desire to take us back to the bouffant and Brylcream era.
So if I were his campaign advisor and I'm sure after he reads this I'll be getting some calls from his handlers or at least his stylist, I'd stay away from policy statements, which will just flip flop and confuse voters and focus on my best asset, just looking good, looking sharp and looking for some political love.
5
Successful political slogans should generally be no longer than three words. I'm surprised the Rand Paul campaign hasn't noticed this. More than three words leads to fender-benders and tailgating tickets when the driver behind you tries to read the tiny print on your bumper sticker - not to mention slaps in the face from women misinterpreting your intent stare at her T-shirt or lapel button.
Although older slogans were wordier, as you get closer to the modern era you see short ones (usually free of specifics) predominate: I like Ike. The New Deal. The Great Society. Nixon's the One, Yes We Can. Morning in America. etc. Three words. Sometimes a campaign had multiple slogans - but you remember the short one. When longer slogans win, it's usually for the incumbent; one notable exception is Reagan in 1980, though he didn't so much win that election as Carter lost it.
Wikipedia's list is incomplete (I can think of some not listed) but interesting. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_U.S._presidential_campaign_slogans
The takeaway: Three words, four max, and keep it hopey-changey vague.
[change topic] I'm ambivalent about the hue and cry over 'flip-flops'. John Maynard Keynes once asked, 'when the facts change, I change my mind. What do you do?' Changing one's position, per se (aside from why, and what one changes from/to) is often praiseworthy, and the only person who never changes his mind is one who doesn't have much of a mind to change.
Although older slogans were wordier, as you get closer to the modern era you see short ones (usually free of specifics) predominate: I like Ike. The New Deal. The Great Society. Nixon's the One, Yes We Can. Morning in America. etc. Three words. Sometimes a campaign had multiple slogans - but you remember the short one. When longer slogans win, it's usually for the incumbent; one notable exception is Reagan in 1980, though he didn't so much win that election as Carter lost it.
Wikipedia's list is incomplete (I can think of some not listed) but interesting. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_U.S._presidential_campaign_slogans
The takeaway: Three words, four max, and keep it hopey-changey vague.
[change topic] I'm ambivalent about the hue and cry over 'flip-flops'. John Maynard Keynes once asked, 'when the facts change, I change my mind. What do you do?' Changing one's position, per se (aside from why, and what one changes from/to) is often praiseworthy, and the only person who never changes his mind is one who doesn't have much of a mind to change.
Gail gets her grove on.
There will be lots of ammunition for her to use in the upcoming months with the clown car rolling into town. I for one am looking forward to each and every installment. Gail is worth the price of the NYT on line all by herself.
There will be lots of ammunition for her to use in the upcoming months with the clown car rolling into town. I for one am looking forward to each and every installment. Gail is worth the price of the NYT on line all by herself.
13
I live in Kentucky and have to own Rand Paul as my senator, and this after years of admitting to Mitch McConnell. Life isn't easy here. Thank goodness for Congressman John Yarmuth who actually believes in good government.
21
I sympathize Mary, but in Texas I have to deal with the likes of Canadian Ted Cruz, Gov. Good Hair Perry, John Cornyn and a multitude of political embarrassments. Feel fortunate that you've got at least one good legislator to vouch for.
2
Seems the Republican presidential candidates are required to meet a Gail Collins Column Quotient (GCCQ) before declaring.
2
This is one of the deep secrets of American politics. Most foreigners did not know this until you let the cat out of the bag. Sheesh!
2016 GOP nomination should be about who is the most creepy: Paul or Cruz?
11
Rand Paul Libertarianism: Your money should be free but you should not.
19
He gets caught, multiple times, for massive plagiarism and blames it on "haters". He gets called out for employing a neo-Confederate and his response is "I think people can judge me on who I am and what I'm trying to do, rather than trying to go after one of my employees and say, 'This is all about you.'. Savannah Guthrie enumerates the facts of his changes of position and he accuses her of "editorializing". And always the condescending tone.
24
Gail, please don't be so quick to throw away the Aqua Buddha incident. Paul grew up in a libertarian household. Why would he as a college student have found it amusing to force someone to "worship" any god. Of course, she was female Maybe that makes a difference.
8
"Kraken"? I think it's "Kragl."
2
Gail: I sense a proto-meme. Can you comment on the rumor that Rand Paul once strapped the Aqua Budda to the roof of his car and drove to Canada?
7
We are wasting our time interviewing this seemingly diverse and whacky gaggle of aspiring GOP presidential candidates about their views on the issues. Just interview the big GOP oligarchs and donors (e.g., the Kochs, Adelson, et als.) and ask them who they are putting their money on and investing in for their President in 2016.
As we are already witnessing, over the course of this lengthy 2016 campaign, they will all "evolve"--just as GOP presidential candidates John McCain, & Mitt Romney evolved--away from whatever reasonable positions and souls they may have possessed toward whatever the wealthy, mettlesome patron oligarchs of the Greedy Old Plutocrat Party demand.
Whomever passes the Big GOP Donor litmus test and vetting process must be AGAINST taxing the rich, health insurance and quality public education for all, Social Security, food and consumer safety, diplomacy, and any and all financial and environmental government regulation.
The anointed candidate, of course, will not talk in any detail about these burning plutocratic issues but will deflect attention by rabble rousing over our glorious military, big bad government, guns & God, abortion & controlling our women, immigrants and all those suspicious people who are not like us.
Long live war, inequality, poverty, ignorance, and hatred! Backward March! Vote Republican!
And the GOP presidential candidate will be _________?
As we are already witnessing, over the course of this lengthy 2016 campaign, they will all "evolve"--just as GOP presidential candidates John McCain, & Mitt Romney evolved--away from whatever reasonable positions and souls they may have possessed toward whatever the wealthy, mettlesome patron oligarchs of the Greedy Old Plutocrat Party demand.
Whomever passes the Big GOP Donor litmus test and vetting process must be AGAINST taxing the rich, health insurance and quality public education for all, Social Security, food and consumer safety, diplomacy, and any and all financial and environmental government regulation.
The anointed candidate, of course, will not talk in any detail about these burning plutocratic issues but will deflect attention by rabble rousing over our glorious military, big bad government, guns & God, abortion & controlling our women, immigrants and all those suspicious people who are not like us.
Long live war, inequality, poverty, ignorance, and hatred! Backward March! Vote Republican!
And the GOP presidential candidate will be _________?
20
Rand Paul is the Father Coughlin of our generation.
5
No, wouldn't that honorific go to Sen. Cruz?
1
chris,
I believe it is a little early to award the prestigious Father Coughin award. And, the line in Vegas has Huckabee at 2:1 at this point but thanks for playing and
we'll have to see how this turns out. So many great choices for America this year.
I believe it is a little early to award the prestigious Father Coughin award. And, the line in Vegas has Huckabee at 2:1 at this point but thanks for playing and
we'll have to see how this turns out. So many great choices for America this year.
1
Oh Gail, you've made my day in a dreary week of nonstop dreadful news.
Where to start? I guess with this one:
“Before I was involved in politics!” the new candidate retorted. If you agree with his theory that would mean that nothing Rand Paul said before 2010 counts." Well, everything counts in a campaign, Rand, and you'd better get used to it. If he continues on the testy path he's taken, he will have alienated most of reasonable Americans by next week.
There is something prickly about this man, who mixes condescension with distain for his interviewers. You cannot deny Rand is a smart man, but smarts alone cannot win the hearts of the American people.
I think Rand thinks he's special somehow and the rules don't apply to him. Maybe this plays well in Kentucky or the Senate, but on TV with all of us watching--better watch out. His statements on vaccination were alarming, particularly coming from a doctor. And his positions on just about anything seem to move so fast, I get dizzy trying to follow.
I think in the end Rand is simply more of the same GOP wrapped up in a veneer of personal liberty that doesn't apply to women. He's interesting, and amusing (to a point) until he gets testy, and then he's simply annoying.
Presidential caliber? I think not.
Where to start? I guess with this one:
“Before I was involved in politics!” the new candidate retorted. If you agree with his theory that would mean that nothing Rand Paul said before 2010 counts." Well, everything counts in a campaign, Rand, and you'd better get used to it. If he continues on the testy path he's taken, he will have alienated most of reasonable Americans by next week.
There is something prickly about this man, who mixes condescension with distain for his interviewers. You cannot deny Rand is a smart man, but smarts alone cannot win the hearts of the American people.
I think Rand thinks he's special somehow and the rules don't apply to him. Maybe this plays well in Kentucky or the Senate, but on TV with all of us watching--better watch out. His statements on vaccination were alarming, particularly coming from a doctor. And his positions on just about anything seem to move so fast, I get dizzy trying to follow.
I think in the end Rand is simply more of the same GOP wrapped up in a veneer of personal liberty that doesn't apply to women. He's interesting, and amusing (to a point) until he gets testy, and then he's simply annoying.
Presidential caliber? I think not.
24
Rand Paul is not ready for prime time.
9
Republicans will always say they want to take the country back. They just won't tell you to when. (I'll bet it's sometime before 1973 and Roe v. Wade.)
267
More like 1953 or even 1853
1
My bet is that the date they have in mind is earlier, say pre-1913 when the 16th Amendment to the Constitution passed creating the income tax. Of course, an added benefit of that period is that women could not vote and both birth control and abortion was illegal under the Comstock law of 1873. There was no environmental regulation of business and the Securities and Exchange Act was in the distant future. Finally, the South enjoyed all the benefits of Jim Crow laws that provided very cheap labor to even not-all-that privileged whites, not to mention prison chain-gangs. Terrorism is such an effective tool for keeping certain people in their place.
4
Actually, it probably would be 1954 and Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka.
2
If this man did not get a bachelor's degree, how did he go on to become a licensed eye surgeon?
3
We should always extend a warm welcome to the newest class members of the 2016 Official Wacko Bird Clown Car, for it is those individuals who will provide us with years of unlimited laughs, open-mouthed disbelief and inevitable schadenfreude as they each channel the basest instincts of America's fake 'heartland', Old Confederacy and the 0.1% into a national political platform.
Rand Paul on marriage equality: "I've always said that the states have a right to decide. I do believe in traditional marriage, Kentucky has decided it, and I don't think the federal government should tell us otherwise. There are states that have decided in the opposite fashion, and I don't think the federal government should tell anybody or any state government how they should decide this."
In other words, bring back the Old Confederacy and their 'right' to decide slavery and repeal that burdensome Civil Rights Act.
Speaking of slavery, Rand Paul equates universal healthcare with slavery, although his personal medical practice was happy to accept single-payer Medicare slavery dollars.
"With regard to the idea of whether you have a right to health care, you have realize what that implies...That means you have a right to come to my house and conscript me. It means you believe in slavery. It means that you’re going to enslave not only me, but the janitor at my hospital, the person who cleans my office, the assistants who work in my office, the nurses."
Rand Paul 2016: Confederate 'Freedom' Pretzel
Rand Paul on marriage equality: "I've always said that the states have a right to decide. I do believe in traditional marriage, Kentucky has decided it, and I don't think the federal government should tell us otherwise. There are states that have decided in the opposite fashion, and I don't think the federal government should tell anybody or any state government how they should decide this."
In other words, bring back the Old Confederacy and their 'right' to decide slavery and repeal that burdensome Civil Rights Act.
Speaking of slavery, Rand Paul equates universal healthcare with slavery, although his personal medical practice was happy to accept single-payer Medicare slavery dollars.
"With regard to the idea of whether you have a right to health care, you have realize what that implies...That means you have a right to come to my house and conscript me. It means you believe in slavery. It means that you’re going to enslave not only me, but the janitor at my hospital, the person who cleans my office, the assistants who work in my office, the nurses."
Rand Paul 2016: Confederate 'Freedom' Pretzel
82
He couldn't use "Cry havoc and let slip the dogs of war" because it was previously used by Bush/Cheney. Oh, and some other guy in the 17th century.
4
It's a shame that ALL politicians "evolve."
Obama was against gay marriage until he was for.
He was against war in Afghanistan and Iraq before he sent more troops.
He was against arming Syrian rebels before he is in favor.
Obama was against gay marriage until he was for.
He was against war in Afghanistan and Iraq before he sent more troops.
He was against arming Syrian rebels before he is in favor.
3
Rand's chancs of becoming the candidate are:
a: Slim
B: None
c: Between slim and none.
Answer: All of the above.
a: Slim
B: None
c: Between slim and none.
Answer: All of the above.
8
These politicians lose me when they go on Fox News.
9
Move over Ted Cruz and make some for another presidential aspirant in the Republican clown car. Who's next?
5
The idea that Rand Paul is a legitimate contender for the Republican presidential nomination is simply a media creation. If he ever showed any serious strength, despite McConnell's "I don't really have a choice, do I?" support, the establishment will rally to bludgeon his candidacy. It's already started with that Iran advertisement. Elite Republicans may despise Ted Cruz, but they distrust Rand Paul even more. There is no *there* there with Paul, just a bunch of strange, incoherent statements, occasionally followed by transparent back-tracking, and symbolic, largely empty gestures that do little for the GOP base. He does not have a credible path to posting the 30-35% voting numbers crucial for victory in early caucus or primary states.
As others have noted, his efforts to appeal to core Republican voters have not shown any sign of working, but he is gradually disillusioning his father's set of supporters. He's done nothing in the Senate except draw attention to himself and yet he thinks this qualifies him to be president, despite the fact that his single senate term represents the entirety of his political experience. If Paul wants a real legacy, he should focus on criminal justice and government surveillance reform in the Senate, and actually make a difference. But his dreams are too grandiose for merely that important work, unfortunately. All he seems destined to do is marginalize his influence on Capitol Hill.
As others have noted, his efforts to appeal to core Republican voters have not shown any sign of working, but he is gradually disillusioning his father's set of supporters. He's done nothing in the Senate except draw attention to himself and yet he thinks this qualifies him to be president, despite the fact that his single senate term represents the entirety of his political experience. If Paul wants a real legacy, he should focus on criminal justice and government surveillance reform in the Senate, and actually make a difference. But his dreams are too grandiose for merely that important work, unfortunately. All he seems destined to do is marginalize his influence on Capitol Hill.
3
The wing nuts always declare early, trying to get a head start, at least in fund-raising. I don't expect any of them will last very long once the real campaign starts. It will be a later wing nut getting the nomination of the republic party. They actively went after the support of the Tea Party and other extremists. If you lie down with dogs, you get fleas.
7
The Baylor Duke thing to me is most telling. Clearly he appeals to the good ole boy network thinking they should give him shortcuts to where ever he wants to go. It's important to note that opthamology is considered one of the easiest specialties and known among many in medicine to attract the least sharp knives in the medical school drawer. The choice is both ironic and symbolic as well of someone who if can't persuade ones political views will be happy to physically change how one sees. Eye surgery? I doubt he's certified.
This take back_______________(fill in the blank with any number of the many things Paul cited in his announcement speech). Those he's speaking to never had whatever filled the blank in the first place let alone had whatever it was taken away from them justifying that they deserve to have it or have it back. I'm sick to death of this phraseology and posturing. By definition, anyone who agrees is looking for a handout of something that's not theirs nor do they have any rightful claim to.
This take back_______________(fill in the blank with any number of the many things Paul cited in his announcement speech). Those he's speaking to never had whatever filled the blank in the first place let alone had whatever it was taken away from them justifying that they deserve to have it or have it back. I'm sick to death of this phraseology and posturing. By definition, anyone who agrees is looking for a handout of something that's not theirs nor do they have any rightful claim to.
3
Meanwhile, his poor southern state suffers from high poverty and bad schools but does enjoy receiving more federal tax dollars than it sends in.
18
That was awesome, Gail! Keep it coming - don't let up on the Aqua Buddha incident - keep it going like Mitt's dog!
3
"You could argue [Rand Paul] was way more interesting before he started to evolve."
Paul may once have been more interesting, he has evolved to be more scary. Evolving is no sin in politics; in fact, we want leaders who are open to reassessing positions based on new facts, but Paul's evolving is not based on new facts; it is inconsistent, puzzling and/or driven by political winds.
There is something fundamentally scary about a doctor who blames vaccinations for mental disorders when all medical studies/evidence proves no causal relationship. What broke down in his thought process?
There is something fundamentally scary about a doctor who seems threatened by women; that seems to be a condition suffered by all Republicans, but it is more illogical in a man with a medical degree and presumably a knowledge of women's equality. What explains his misogynistic feelings?
Isn't Rand Paul also the politician who plagiarizes from others, most of what he claims to say? Is that how he got through college?
Evolving is one thing, but his mental paradoxes are disturbing and scary. And anyway, why should we put a man in the oval office who doesn't believe in the value of government?
Paul may once have been more interesting, he has evolved to be more scary. Evolving is no sin in politics; in fact, we want leaders who are open to reassessing positions based on new facts, but Paul's evolving is not based on new facts; it is inconsistent, puzzling and/or driven by political winds.
There is something fundamentally scary about a doctor who blames vaccinations for mental disorders when all medical studies/evidence proves no causal relationship. What broke down in his thought process?
There is something fundamentally scary about a doctor who seems threatened by women; that seems to be a condition suffered by all Republicans, but it is more illogical in a man with a medical degree and presumably a knowledge of women's equality. What explains his misogynistic feelings?
Isn't Rand Paul also the politician who plagiarizes from others, most of what he claims to say? Is that how he got through college?
Evolving is one thing, but his mental paradoxes are disturbing and scary. And anyway, why should we put a man in the oval office who doesn't believe in the value of government?
5
It can't be repeated often enough that he refused to become board certified by the American Board of Opthalmology when he had to be re-examed after ten years, as all board-certfied ophthalmologists are required to do.
Instead, he set up his very own "National Board of Opthalmology," conveniently located in a post office box in his Kentucky hometown, with his wife as one of its officers. Surprise! He passed the "National Board's" tests and therefore calls himself board-certified.
This kind of medical film-flam should be the first in a lone line of objections to his candidacy. He's fooling patients, and collecting Medicaid and Medicare alone the way. He's not qualified to conduct surgery on the same level as those certified by the American Board of Opthalmology, but claims that his own self-serving "board" is good enough.
If you can't trust your doctor to tell the truth, then you certainly can't trust him in matters of diplomacy, economics, or other difficult subjects. He's not equipped for the job-- and he's a first class liar and charlatan.
Plus, to bring this from the sublime to the ridiculous, is he the first candidate who wears a toupee? And a bad one at that? When will he come out of the closet as being proudly bald?
Instead, he set up his very own "National Board of Opthalmology," conveniently located in a post office box in his Kentucky hometown, with his wife as one of its officers. Surprise! He passed the "National Board's" tests and therefore calls himself board-certified.
This kind of medical film-flam should be the first in a lone line of objections to his candidacy. He's fooling patients, and collecting Medicaid and Medicare alone the way. He's not qualified to conduct surgery on the same level as those certified by the American Board of Opthalmology, but claims that his own self-serving "board" is good enough.
If you can't trust your doctor to tell the truth, then you certainly can't trust him in matters of diplomacy, economics, or other difficult subjects. He's not equipped for the job-- and he's a first class liar and charlatan.
Plus, to bring this from the sublime to the ridiculous, is he the first candidate who wears a toupee? And a bad one at that? When will he come out of the closet as being proudly bald?
13
Gail this reminds me of my anatomy class in college. I was in lab, with my lab partner next to me and the professor was describing the difference in bone structure between the male and the female pelvis.
He proceeded to show the top view and said, "the male pelvis is kind of heart-shaped." I turned to my partner, both of us old married gals and under my breath, said, "Well, I knew it was there somewhere."
Well, of course, she couldn't contain herself. And, now you tell me, thanks to Rand Paul, we've discovered the brain in approximately the same region, but more to the right back side.
I don't know about the rest of you, but I would leery of any eye surgery.
He proceeded to show the top view and said, "the male pelvis is kind of heart-shaped." I turned to my partner, both of us old married gals and under my breath, said, "Well, I knew it was there somewhere."
Well, of course, she couldn't contain herself. And, now you tell me, thanks to Rand Paul, we've discovered the brain in approximately the same region, but more to the right back side.
I don't know about the rest of you, but I would leery of any eye surgery.
8
Paul is another great illustration of the truth in Gore Vidal's remark, to paraphrase, by the time a Presidential candidate arrives on the national stage he has already been bought and sold 100 times. Until we have reformed our political candidate selection process, eliminating the obvious link between success and financing, we will continue to see such obscene "evolution" of public positions by candidates who suddenly "wake up" to the need to please those who already hold the power, in order to join their ranks.
3
It's fun to spoof these ridiculous candidates but they arise from the pool of American citizens. When we see them, sadly we see us.
5
Me begins to ponder that the Republican Party is overly populated by Tools, both large and small.
9
rand paul: a political "philosophy" tailor made for somalia.
2
.
.
Consider this Senator, Paul
Who wants to be king of 'em all:
Experienced? No.
Consistent? How so?
But he knows his way 'round an eyeball!
At "Galt House" to say what he's planned,
He sounded less solid than sand.
Whatever he says
He won't be our Prez:
We've long ago tired of Ayn Rand!
.
Consider this Senator, Paul
Who wants to be king of 'em all:
Experienced? No.
Consistent? How so?
But he knows his way 'round an eyeball!
At "Galt House" to say what he's planned,
He sounded less solid than sand.
Whatever he says
He won't be our Prez:
We've long ago tired of Ayn Rand!
10
"Rand Paul is also evolving"
Evolution is a two way street. It can involve loss as well as gain of complexity, depending on the environment. For instance; the world of eye surgery is demanding and somewhat unforgiving while that of politics is more nebulous. In going from the former to the latter; evolution could definitely involve the loss of unneeded critical thinking ability.
Evolution is a two way street. It can involve loss as well as gain of complexity, depending on the environment. For instance; the world of eye surgery is demanding and somewhat unforgiving while that of politics is more nebulous. In going from the former to the latter; evolution could definitely involve the loss of unneeded critical thinking ability.
Paul might be evolving but the question is what is he evolving into. Or maybe we should wonder what he's devolving into: a shill for the 1% who want policies that will keep the rest of us quiet and desperate, too desperate to wonder where he intends to take America. Hint: it's not a better place for the middle and working classes. We really ought to think twice before we put into any office someone who deliberately undermines important country to country negotiations. Do we really need another person in the White House who doesn't understand that government can be a good thing in people's lives? Besides, I'm tired of seeing my tax dollars supporting elected officials who run against the government but have no problem receiving their salaries from that same government. In a sense, although the GOP would never admit it, we ARE the government. We pay for it and we ought to be getting more from it than we are with the current group of clowns who seem incapable of doing anything but saying no and putting their big feet into their even bigger mouths.
12
Paul is not a leader.
Amer e kins feel
All men are e quill
Leaders come forward
They have clear heads
Begin in log cabins
Rite, their own speech is
make a lot of sense in
Don't raise their voice is.
We have a leadership vacuum in America because of the two parties stifling our politics. We need all independent people in every public office. I am an independent candidate for president. I bring to the table a vehicle for world peace.
Those who want world peace and would not be against a world wide dusk until dawn all channels whirled wide TV show with every line a delicate sensible rhyme will give me a chance to settle all the issues everywhere.
http://michaelslevinson.com
Amer e kins feel
All men are e quill
Leaders come forward
They have clear heads
Begin in log cabins
Rite, their own speech is
make a lot of sense in
Don't raise their voice is.
We have a leadership vacuum in America because of the two parties stifling our politics. We need all independent people in every public office. I am an independent candidate for president. I bring to the table a vehicle for world peace.
Those who want world peace and would not be against a world wide dusk until dawn all channels whirled wide TV show with every line a delicate sensible rhyme will give me a chance to settle all the issues everywhere.
http://michaelslevinson.com
To paraphrase the song writer Phil Ochs, a Libertarian is someone who is ten degrees to the right of center when times are good, and ten degrees to the left of center when it affects them personally.
250
NYT readers might want to revisit the original Ochs of which that is a paraphrase. I stopped listening to his live album when the homophobic slurs in his patter started getting to me. He doesn't hold up well.
A libertarian is an anarchist who wants the government to protect him from his slaves.
1
The object of Mr. Ochs observation was a liberal, not a libertarian. Just saying...
What is Rand Paul about, and where does he stand on the jobs crisis's effects? See http://worksnewage.blogspot.com/2013/12/rand-paul-just-another-social.html.
3
A petulant child and an anarchist at heart that has softened his libertarian bent by opining that there may be other countries in the world that need attention.
For the rest, he is the dream candidate for the Brothers Koch along with Ted Cruz who relies upon the Bible thumpers to promote his brand of bigotry and hatred of a government that he is so intent upon destroying.
Wealth and power determine one's status in an anarchistic society. The principles expressed by our commonwealth's determination to stand united, are gutted and everyone is left pretty much to stand on their own.
The slogan on the conservative republican banner promotes the downfall of a government the existence of which is crucial to some 95 % of our citizens. A Supreme Court majority of corporate madmen , disguised as justices , has declared wealth to be the equivalent of free speech , thereby selling this nation down the river to the most well off of the plantation owners.
This is what we face. Most of us have to be content with one vote. The Brothers Koch have eighty billion.
For the rest, he is the dream candidate for the Brothers Koch along with Ted Cruz who relies upon the Bible thumpers to promote his brand of bigotry and hatred of a government that he is so intent upon destroying.
Wealth and power determine one's status in an anarchistic society. The principles expressed by our commonwealth's determination to stand united, are gutted and everyone is left pretty much to stand on their own.
The slogan on the conservative republican banner promotes the downfall of a government the existence of which is crucial to some 95 % of our citizens. A Supreme Court majority of corporate madmen , disguised as justices , has declared wealth to be the equivalent of free speech , thereby selling this nation down the river to the most well off of the plantation owners.
This is what we face. Most of us have to be content with one vote. The Brothers Koch have eighty billion.
21
This is clever, but would be more so if it weren't an echo of what Samantha Guthrie already asserted. Time after time, the public shows that while it loves politicians who run against government and Washington, people are hard-pressed to identify what they would eliminate. Paul and others will have to contend with this -- perhaps better than Gov. Perry did in the last series of debates -- oops. As Federalists, Whigs, and Republicans have known for a long time, there is a way government can create conditions for social and economic progress (Bank of the United States, assumption of colonial debt, the American Plan for internal improvements, Land Grant Act for higher education, Transcontinental Railroad, Homesteading, Anti-trust, Civil Service Reform, Conservation, Interstate Highways) and the Democratic Party has often understood this too (public power-TVA, Social Safety net, NLRB, Federal Reserve), but then there are the redistributionists who will establish any program that takes tax money and puts people on the payroll for programs that simply result in transfer payments to favored constituencies -- clientelism.
He must have had a call or two from a couple of billionaires. Nothing changes political discourse faster that the pull of the puppet strings from the money masters. When Darwin wrote his monumental work on natural selection, he left out the chapter about the effects of money on the evolution of the species politic.
51
Perhaps politics is subject to un-natural selection.
1
"Take our country back!!!" Gee, where did it go?
43
Does anyone want to ask Rand why he is not a "board certified" opthomologist and why he and his wife started their own certification organization?
77
no,no,no,no,no,no,no,no
And we're off to the races! Hilary Clinton isn't anywhere as amusing. Can the Democrats take the challenge? How many wacky-birds are waiting in the wings???
14
If today's Republican Party is a well-financed vaudeville show, Paul and Cruz are the warm-up acts, this coming year's version of the 2012 Donald Trump, who I believe still has detectives searching for the President's birth certificate.
Rand Paul may not last long enough to be Flavor of the Week.
As they did in 2012, the Republicans will have dangerous liaisons with chump bait like Mike Huckabee, Carly Fiorina, Ben Carson, and Rick Santorum, feel the titillation that comes with imagining the country run by religious zealots or corporate fascisti, and then they'll settle for the candidate that nobody really likes but that they hope smart voters can be fooled into supporting.
So, if you need to freshen up, now's the time. Main act won't be on for another year or so.
Rand Paul may not last long enough to be Flavor of the Week.
As they did in 2012, the Republicans will have dangerous liaisons with chump bait like Mike Huckabee, Carly Fiorina, Ben Carson, and Rick Santorum, feel the titillation that comes with imagining the country run by religious zealots or corporate fascisti, and then they'll settle for the candidate that nobody really likes but that they hope smart voters can be fooled into supporting.
So, if you need to freshen up, now's the time. Main act won't be on for another year or so.
43
He has said he doesn't believe in gay rights because homosexuality is a "behavior" overlooking the fact that being a flip flopping politician and a quasi libertarian are also behaviors.
57
Gail, love your columns, but your headline was a bit of a clickbait. Where's the part about Paul Rand, the genius graphic designer? Paul Rand was a pretty sensible and talented man, and would probably have made a more palatable presidential candidate.
13
And there's Paul Strand the photographer, but he's dead. He stands a better chance if you ask me. Love you Gail!!
When Senator Paul and others say, "“We have come to take our country back,” I wonder what exactly is that "We" have in mind:
- We control the Legislative and Judicial branches of the government and we have done such a fanatastic job with those two that we would like to control the executive branch as well.
- We managed to run the country nearly into the ground when the executive branch under our control with "W" in charge that we'd like to try that again by continuing our wars abroad and starting new ones with Iran and others yet to be named.
- We would like to cede control of our foreign policy to our good friend Netanyahu since we are not hated enough by the world.
- We would like to control women's bodies and what people do in their bedrooms
The country's response should be similar to Daffy Duck's in one of the Looney Tunes skits (with a slight change): "Oh no, you don't! You're about to ruin this country, so out you go, out out out! And Stay out!"
That's all folks!
- We control the Legislative and Judicial branches of the government and we have done such a fanatastic job with those two that we would like to control the executive branch as well.
- We managed to run the country nearly into the ground when the executive branch under our control with "W" in charge that we'd like to try that again by continuing our wars abroad and starting new ones with Iran and others yet to be named.
- We would like to cede control of our foreign policy to our good friend Netanyahu since we are not hated enough by the world.
- We would like to control women's bodies and what people do in their bedrooms
The country's response should be similar to Daffy Duck's in one of the Looney Tunes skits (with a slight change): "Oh no, you don't! You're about to ruin this country, so out you go, out out out! And Stay out!"
That's all folks!
42
Who votes for anyone that openly wants to weaken or incapacitate the government they seek to represent? It is perfectly clear why politicians like Paul are advocating for less government, tax cuts, dismantling the social safety net, more defense spending, etc. - it's what their wealthy donors require to give their money. It is pure Pavlovian behavior.
A democratic government should be a work in progress with systems in place that are designed to develop and implement programs that serve the best interest of ALL citizens. Yet, inexplicably, people continue to vote for candidates that openly pledge to dismantle government programs and constantly engage in divisiveness.
Paul and other politicians are not evolving but rather they are tweaking their messaging to pander to the needs of the wealthy donor class. It is so blatant, I wonder how anyone can trust a word these people say.
The citizens of this country are being cruelly mistreated by megalomaniacs engaged in a farcical drama to be the leader of the free world. I cannot see how this possibly could end well.
A democratic government should be a work in progress with systems in place that are designed to develop and implement programs that serve the best interest of ALL citizens. Yet, inexplicably, people continue to vote for candidates that openly pledge to dismantle government programs and constantly engage in divisiveness.
Paul and other politicians are not evolving but rather they are tweaking their messaging to pander to the needs of the wealthy donor class. It is so blatant, I wonder how anyone can trust a word these people say.
The citizens of this country are being cruelly mistreated by megalomaniacs engaged in a farcical drama to be the leader of the free world. I cannot see how this possibly could end well.
33
Rand Paul = annoying twerp.
First impressions do matter.
First impressions do matter.
48
Is this still the Land of Opportunity or what?
We have a Canadian refugee running for President.
We have an Aqua Buddhist running for President.
Because, you see, if a couple of Viet Nam dodging cowards like Boy George and Cheney can grow up to be war criminals, the sky is the limit.
We have a Canadian refugee running for President.
We have an Aqua Buddhist running for President.
Because, you see, if a couple of Viet Nam dodging cowards like Boy George and Cheney can grow up to be war criminals, the sky is the limit.
71
All these Republicans are so depressing, including Rand, who at least used to be somewhat of an interesting outlier, until he decided to run for office. For instance, I like the idea that he wants to reform our incarceration system?
But why oh why do all these Republican men, who are so against government and for "freedom," insist on telling me what to do with my body, and making laws about it? Why are Republicans, who keep insisting life is so precious, so eager to go to war as a first resort?
At least you make me laugh about it, Gail. And I really think "Beat Hillary. Release the Kraken" is one of the best campaign slogans, ever.
But why oh why do all these Republican men, who are so against government and for "freedom," insist on telling me what to do with my body, and making laws about it? Why are Republicans, who keep insisting life is so precious, so eager to go to war as a first resort?
At least you make me laugh about it, Gail. And I really think "Beat Hillary. Release the Kraken" is one of the best campaign slogans, ever.
59
Rand Paul is a denier, a fraud, and an out and out liar.He destroys rather than builds. His denials of so many subjects that are important are rampant while ranting how the deficit is going to kill the economy, or how the Affordable Care Act is a failure, to his denial of man made acceleration of climate change. He stumbles around petulantly and embarrassingly when challenged to offer up positive change ideas. The man is depressing, frankly, and certainly does not belong in government.
47
Gentle reader, although ostensibly similar, there is a big difference between Libertarianism and Objectivism, Ayn Rand's particular maladjustment characterized by the title of one of her screeds, "The Virtue of Selfishness." (She was also a rabid atheist, but take no notice of that 700 pound gorilla.) Tea Party activists generally have a simple version of Objectivism: "Memememe....mine!" although they too practice cafeteria style adherence, generally focused on gun fetish and no taxes. Paul is trying to walk a fine line between these two strains of political ideology, and his contortions will only get mere amusing as he tries to square the circle with the rest of the GOP...nevermind the general electorate.
36
"Rabid" atheist. Wow, and I thought that being an evangelical agnostic was outré.
He has become, like most Republicans, a cafeteria libertarian. I.e. let's get the government off the back of rich people and big corporations so they can have complete freedom to beat up the rest of us any way they want to.
When you want to force a woman, under threat of prison, to have a baby against her will, I don't think you get to call yourself a libertarian.
When you want to force a woman, under threat of prison, to have a baby against her will, I don't think you get to call yourself a libertarian.
186
We need to know more about the crazy millionaires and billionaires backing the crazy candidates for President.
Now that Ted Cruz has quickly raised $31 million (likely as much as JEB), there can be little doubt that our our politics are shaped by wealthy donors. Demanding more control over how their contributions are spent in campaigns, so it is the donor views, not the ''evolving'' views of a Rand Paul or a Ted Cruz that we should understand before we vote.
Sheldon Adelson, gambling billionaire, was literally in the first row of the gallery when Bibi Netanyahu addressed the Congress a few weeks ago. The attitudes of the billionaire Koch brothers toward government were shaped by an unhappy family experience with the pre-WWII Soviet Union (although they seem to be OK with government subsidies for carbon industries.)
There are something like 80 or 85 mega donors--who are they and what do they want?
It will be interesting to see whether the big Republican money coalesces around one candidates or another or whether they wage proxy wars with one another through ''evolving'' candidates like Rand Paul and Marco Rubio. A certain amount of fratricide, perhaps?
Ultimately, the policy preferences of the Republican donor elite (tax cuts, carbon subsidies, permanent war, social spending cuts) can't be squared with the needs of the American majority or even the aging base of the Republican Party.
Have at it, guys--you will never get to the White House this way.
Now that Ted Cruz has quickly raised $31 million (likely as much as JEB), there can be little doubt that our our politics are shaped by wealthy donors. Demanding more control over how their contributions are spent in campaigns, so it is the donor views, not the ''evolving'' views of a Rand Paul or a Ted Cruz that we should understand before we vote.
Sheldon Adelson, gambling billionaire, was literally in the first row of the gallery when Bibi Netanyahu addressed the Congress a few weeks ago. The attitudes of the billionaire Koch brothers toward government were shaped by an unhappy family experience with the pre-WWII Soviet Union (although they seem to be OK with government subsidies for carbon industries.)
There are something like 80 or 85 mega donors--who are they and what do they want?
It will be interesting to see whether the big Republican money coalesces around one candidates or another or whether they wage proxy wars with one another through ''evolving'' candidates like Rand Paul and Marco Rubio. A certain amount of fratricide, perhaps?
Ultimately, the policy preferences of the Republican donor elite (tax cuts, carbon subsidies, permanent war, social spending cuts) can't be squared with the needs of the American majority or even the aging base of the Republican Party.
Have at it, guys--you will never get to the White House this way.
41
"Your money is no good here" could be a winning campaign slogan in 2016.
9
We used to call flip-flops "zories." Maybe that's a combination of Tories and zombies.
79
Actually, it's a Japanese word for sandals. We used to call them "lipper-locks" because that's the sound you make walking around in them...
Sensing a certain lack of gravitas as Rand Paul threads his way through all those questions, questions being thrown at him by interviewers of the female persuasion.
Is Michelle Bachmann free to accept a Vice slot ? She has experience fending off interviewers by running down hallways -- a most direct method of evading probing questions. Bachmann can promote her theory of vaccines as the culprit in mental retardation: Paul can put his personal, professional stamp of approval on questionable cause-and-effect. A dynamic duo to oppose the forces of pediatric science and medicine.
Sarah Palin is an unlikely candidate for a 'running' mate: she's already been there, done that. Only a confirmed egotist would campaign on a Presidential ticket a second time; perhaps she'd tip Romney off as to the catastrophic consequences of political over-exposure. Palin likely tied a moose to her station wagon roof, and could commiserate with Romney on the political treachery of pro-animal columnists.
An inquiring public will demand full disclosure on the Aqua Buddha incident. Is this a Cult ? Just what are Paul's views now, as a mature member of Congress. And more to the point, does he worship Ayn Rand's untrammeled libertarianism ? If so, perhaps Paul Ryan will take the veep campaign bait, once again championing the individual over democracy's social contract.
If 'the Donald' joins the Rand ticket, there'll be a colossal market for "Don't Trump Me, Bro" T-Shirts: Price no object.
Is Michelle Bachmann free to accept a Vice slot ? She has experience fending off interviewers by running down hallways -- a most direct method of evading probing questions. Bachmann can promote her theory of vaccines as the culprit in mental retardation: Paul can put his personal, professional stamp of approval on questionable cause-and-effect. A dynamic duo to oppose the forces of pediatric science and medicine.
Sarah Palin is an unlikely candidate for a 'running' mate: she's already been there, done that. Only a confirmed egotist would campaign on a Presidential ticket a second time; perhaps she'd tip Romney off as to the catastrophic consequences of political over-exposure. Palin likely tied a moose to her station wagon roof, and could commiserate with Romney on the political treachery of pro-animal columnists.
An inquiring public will demand full disclosure on the Aqua Buddha incident. Is this a Cult ? Just what are Paul's views now, as a mature member of Congress. And more to the point, does he worship Ayn Rand's untrammeled libertarianism ? If so, perhaps Paul Ryan will take the veep campaign bait, once again championing the individual over democracy's social contract.
If 'the Donald' joins the Rand ticket, there'll be a colossal market for "Don't Trump Me, Bro" T-Shirts: Price no object.
29
'Aqua Buddhism (Palin language/Sanskrit: बौद्ध धर्म Ya Betcha) is a religion and philosophy encompassing a variety of traditions, beliefs and practices, largely based on teachings attributed to Siddhartha Guatemala, commonly known as the Aqua Buddha (Pāli/Sanskrit "the watery awakened one"), as told through Rand Paul.'
Branches of Aqua Buddhism include, per Uncyclopedia:
'Aynrandayana ("The Great Libertarian Adventure")'
'Atlasshruggedayana — a subcategory of Aynrandayana practiced in the Tea Party, on talk radio, and certain exclusive country clubs—is recognized as a' ... 'branch.'
'Aynrandayana is more philosophical: you should do everything yourself and keep everything that you do, or else someone called the "government" will take it away at the point of a gun, or something like that. It is unclear how this hoarding leads to Nirvana, but at least the hoarders get materially richer. Also, according to Aynrandayana, you have the freedom to be an idiot. It won't affect you very much during suffering and rebirth, but you get to be called an idiot.'
http://uncyclopedia.wikia.com/wiki/Aqua_Buddhism
Branches of Aqua Buddhism include, per Uncyclopedia:
'Aynrandayana ("The Great Libertarian Adventure")'
'Atlasshruggedayana — a subcategory of Aynrandayana practiced in the Tea Party, on talk radio, and certain exclusive country clubs—is recognized as a' ... 'branch.'
'Aynrandayana is more philosophical: you should do everything yourself and keep everything that you do, or else someone called the "government" will take it away at the point of a gun, or something like that. It is unclear how this hoarding leads to Nirvana, but at least the hoarders get materially richer. Also, according to Aynrandayana, you have the freedom to be an idiot. It won't affect you very much during suffering and rebirth, but you get to be called an idiot.'
http://uncyclopedia.wikia.com/wiki/Aqua_Buddhism
6
This is pretty offensive stuff for those who take Buddhism seriously. Since tolerance is a strength in those who follow Buddhism... this too shall pass.
6
There she goes again talking from her overwrought lady parts. Shhh that uppity uterus woman, as it is getting all emotional and girly so it must be silenced. You should know better little missy than to point out all of those embarrassing inconsistencies in presidential candidates; it is just rude. Rand is not flip flopping or "sandaling": he is just a freedom flag in the wind, reacting to the waves of righteousness that sweep over him, so he must issue new "poll" truths when they arise within him, sometimes in tongues, making it hard for mere mortals to follow unless you are uber righteous. One has to be open to the waves of freedom and liberty or one does not feel the new positions bubbling up, uh Gail. Do you even own a freedom flag? I didn't think so. As long as the waves of freedom are flying, then Rand can feel free to react to them...but only if they are followed by with those large checks issued by the voices of freedom and liberty for some, Adelson and the Kochs, as that is where Aqua Buddha gets his "inspirations".
136
Brilliant.
2
Over the next few months, the Republicans are going to release upon us:
The Carson
The Walker
The Jindal
The Perry
The Bush
The Huckabee
not to mention the ever present and terrifying threat of
The Trump.
I'd rather face the Kraken.
The Carson
The Walker
The Jindal
The Perry
The Bush
The Huckabee
not to mention the ever present and terrifying threat of
The Trump.
I'd rather face the Kraken.
158
Oh! The Seven Mind Dwarfs.
8
Just what we need is a testy sort of guy with his finger on the nuclear trigger and the ability to send the country to war on a whim (or in the case of GWBush, on a lie).
The question I would like someone to ask him is if he were President, how would he feel if the Democrats shut down the government, refused to pass any legislation, refused to vote on nearly all appointments, only allowed votes on legislation that could be passed without any republican votes, and shouted out calling him a liar during the State of the Union.
The question I would like someone to ask him is if he were President, how would he feel if the Democrats shut down the government, refused to pass any legislation, refused to vote on nearly all appointments, only allowed votes on legislation that could be passed without any republican votes, and shouted out calling him a liar during the State of the Union.
326
Thank you for this question. It should be asked at every opportunity, of every Republican candidate.
7
The Iconic Rand Paul moment:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pl8rCleTbSo
(Rand Paul bolts when Dreamer activist Erika Andiola attempts to question him and Rep. Steve King about immigration policy).
Who doesn't love a candidate who just runs away when someone asks him to clarify a policy?
Also gotta love Paul straightening out those pesky women journalists! Could his website PLEASE make a t-shirt with the slogan:
No no no no no no no! Listen to me!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pl8rCleTbSo
(Rand Paul bolts when Dreamer activist Erika Andiola attempts to question him and Rep. Steve King about immigration policy).
Who doesn't love a candidate who just runs away when someone asks him to clarify a policy?
Also gotta love Paul straightening out those pesky women journalists! Could his website PLEASE make a t-shirt with the slogan:
No no no no no no no! Listen to me!
98
That video is gone. "Sorry about that", says You Tube. Do you suppose Paul had anything to do with that?
6
Video link goes to screen saying "this video is no longer available."
T-shirt idea is great. Of course, it will be made only in men's sizes.
T-shirt idea is great. Of course, it will be made only in men's sizes.
Type in "Erika Andiola" and other postings pop up. Informative. Thanks!
1
Take our country back from who? The 1% that own a majority of it? The politicians who voted for the bank bailouts, the subsidies to the oil companies that are the most profitable in world history, tax loopholes for the wealthy, a militarized police, covert surveiliance on US civilians, shutting down the government, an unpaid for prescription drug benefit, etc. since the majority of Americans didn't want any of this, is that who we're supposed to take our government back from?
162
I would, without a doubt, vote for Rand Paul if his campaign slogan really was
(C) "Beat Hillary. Release the Kraken".
Very funny!
And you are right. Rand Paul was more interesting before he started to evolve.
I do like that he seems to be against the government spying on us. That, in and of itself, makes him better than Hillary, Obama, and most of the other candidates combined.
(C) "Beat Hillary. Release the Kraken".
Very funny!
And you are right. Rand Paul was more interesting before he started to evolve.
I do like that he seems to be against the government spying on us. That, in and of itself, makes him better than Hillary, Obama, and most of the other candidates combined.
1
He says he's against it (now) but given his track record he could just as easily be for it tomorrow.
3
It would seem to me that self-proclaimed libertarians would have to be so ideologically "true" to their philosophies that anyone running for office under it's banner would inevitably self-contract and enter into mortal head-battles with those who are also self-proclaimed libertarians, but disagree 100% on specific issues. I guess the same thing might be said about conservatives in general. To me, a true and dedicated libertarian would go about their lives quietly, shunning anything to do with politics or elections. Because what is good for them is certainly not good for a whole world, country or society as a whole.
23
Libertarians don't like to have their true beliefs vetted, as they would appall much of the population. Of all the candidates running for president he would have to be the worst of all. Here is a man who doesn't really believe in government. He believes in individual freedom over all other concerns. In other words: Live free and let others (we don't like) die.
After the 2007 real estate collapse Paul would certainly have let the major institutions critical to our economy just fail. Banks, Detroit, AIG, Fannie Mae, etc., and then see what might happen. He would not be a protector of our environment because that is a common good and Paul only supports individual concerns. If he was true to his isolationist governing philosophy it might have led him at one point in WW II to cut a deal with Hitler. Paul is the ultimate ideologue who follows his principles regardless of their impact on people. That makes him very dangerous. Fortunately monied interests including the Koch Brothers would never risk their wealth by supporting someone like him.
Paul's phoniness in flip flopping his positions is not really his biggest problem. Actually it would be better if his policy positions evolved with new knowledge and in a changing world. A bigger issue is that he is a rank amateur at this governing thing, making it all up as he goes along. America must not be experimented on, as we have come too far as a nation to just wing it and hope for the best.
After the 2007 real estate collapse Paul would certainly have let the major institutions critical to our economy just fail. Banks, Detroit, AIG, Fannie Mae, etc., and then see what might happen. He would not be a protector of our environment because that is a common good and Paul only supports individual concerns. If he was true to his isolationist governing philosophy it might have led him at one point in WW II to cut a deal with Hitler. Paul is the ultimate ideologue who follows his principles regardless of their impact on people. That makes him very dangerous. Fortunately monied interests including the Koch Brothers would never risk their wealth by supporting someone like him.
Paul's phoniness in flip flopping his positions is not really his biggest problem. Actually it would be better if his policy positions evolved with new knowledge and in a changing world. A bigger issue is that he is a rank amateur at this governing thing, making it all up as he goes along. America must not be experimented on, as we have come too far as a nation to just wing it and hope for the best.
1
Looking into my crystal ball, I see Aqua Buddha emerging from the form of a certain dog tied to the roof of a certain car.
90
Ah, you beat me to it...and said it better than I was going to!
2
The dog joke is not only irrelevant, it's thoroughly shopworn. Can we please move on? Ms Collins has.
1
Why spend $20 for Rand Paul flip-flops when he provides them for free?
195
Collins playfully lays out the Paul enigma, and touches on the lost promise. It bears mentioning,before his candidacy goes down in flames due to the "kook" factor that cannot be tamed, that Paul previously appeared to be someone worthy of consideration on some issues. Compared to his GOP brethren, it was way more interesting to listen to what some of those views were.
But the bold views have "turned to custard", as the Brits are fond of saying. Increasing the already out of control defense budget and tempting fate for another go at war, no climate change solutions while in the pocket of Big Coal, playing with the vaccination dynamite - oh well. Chiding reporters is just another less than endearing quality that will now be more pronounced in order to obscure his former views to appear more electable. All that crazy talk does have its drawbacks on a national stage - just not in Kentucky. But at least the GOP debates will have someone with a pulse.
Noticeably absent from Collin's piece is Paul's view on income inequality, which, being from Kentucky, should at least scratch the surface of his consciousness. It does make one wonder why Kentucky is a place where power brokers like McConnell and presidential wannabes like Paul can get elected while objecting to government social programs for health care, food stamps and Head Start, when there's the rampant poverty in their state.
But the bold views have "turned to custard", as the Brits are fond of saying. Increasing the already out of control defense budget and tempting fate for another go at war, no climate change solutions while in the pocket of Big Coal, playing with the vaccination dynamite - oh well. Chiding reporters is just another less than endearing quality that will now be more pronounced in order to obscure his former views to appear more electable. All that crazy talk does have its drawbacks on a national stage - just not in Kentucky. But at least the GOP debates will have someone with a pulse.
Noticeably absent from Collin's piece is Paul's view on income inequality, which, being from Kentucky, should at least scratch the surface of his consciousness. It does make one wonder why Kentucky is a place where power brokers like McConnell and presidential wannabes like Paul can get elected while objecting to government social programs for health care, food stamps and Head Start, when there's the rampant poverty in their state.
180
Not sure who has DC and so not sure who he is taking it back from. I would suggest that he is taking it back from himself, and over 500 of people like him. I await the member of congress who while wanting to cut all those moochers' benefits also volunteers to give up their own self-granted salaries that are 5-6 times more than the average family of four, gives up their self-granted, lifetime guaranteed tax-subsidized health and long term care benefits, and does the same with their very generous pension benefits. Also I would like to see one of them say that they should not be allowed to keep all the unspent campaign financing they received from the wealthy living outside their district. They probably have a few other self-provided-at-tax-payer-expense perks that prevents them from spending their own money.
Then they can start providing for the taxpayers some of the items they paid for, like Social Security, Medicare, roads and bridges, clean water, breathable air, interference-free decision-making in personal lives. That would be a show stopper! NO, I am not holding my breath.
Then they can start providing for the taxpayers some of the items they paid for, like Social Security, Medicare, roads and bridges, clean water, breathable air, interference-free decision-making in personal lives. That would be a show stopper! NO, I am not holding my breath.
189
The ancient idea of the Citizen King involved the notion that a nation should draw its leader from the general population instead of from a ruling class. That concept should rule out Jeb Bush and Hillary Clinton and point us toward Rand Paul.
On the other hand, the Citizen King was selected by consensus from among the populace for his demonstrated qualities of bravery, intelligence, accomplishment and honor. Actually seeking the position was an automatic disqualifier.
In deciding who should be our Citizen King, we recognized long ago that we could never skip the electoral process and move directly to the consensus part. We got lucky with George Washington, but war heroes involve a different model.
One reason Americans have been reluctant to elect as our president someone whose experience has been only in the Senate or House is our view that debating skills do not equate with accomplishment. At least a governor manages something. President Obama, a bright guy, may wish secretly that he had spent a few years managing something instead of taking his current job straight from the Senate.
That brings us back to Rand Paul. It’s not just that his views, ever changing as they are, seem quirky. It’s that for our Citizen King, new to politics, if we follow the ancient prerequisite of accomplishment, that surely meant something quite different than performing eye surgery.
Of course, King Arthur got the job for doing a parlor trick with a sword stuck in a rock or something.
On the other hand, the Citizen King was selected by consensus from among the populace for his demonstrated qualities of bravery, intelligence, accomplishment and honor. Actually seeking the position was an automatic disqualifier.
In deciding who should be our Citizen King, we recognized long ago that we could never skip the electoral process and move directly to the consensus part. We got lucky with George Washington, but war heroes involve a different model.
One reason Americans have been reluctant to elect as our president someone whose experience has been only in the Senate or House is our view that debating skills do not equate with accomplishment. At least a governor manages something. President Obama, a bright guy, may wish secretly that he had spent a few years managing something instead of taking his current job straight from the Senate.
That brings us back to Rand Paul. It’s not just that his views, ever changing as they are, seem quirky. It’s that for our Citizen King, new to politics, if we follow the ancient prerequisite of accomplishment, that surely meant something quite different than performing eye surgery.
Of course, King Arthur got the job for doing a parlor trick with a sword stuck in a rock or something.
13
King Arthur got the job for being the son of his father Uther Pendragon, which is what that parlor trick proved. (Which brings us back to nepotism, family ties, and to Rand Paul and the inevitable Clintons and Bushes.)
Alas, you can't run a modern post-industrial superpower of 325-million-plus wildly diverse ethnic, philosophical and economic subgroups with systems that might work in a small, isolated, relatively homogenous, pre-industrial society. And even then, maybe not.
Alas, you can't run a modern post-industrial superpower of 325-million-plus wildly diverse ethnic, philosophical and economic subgroups with systems that might work in a small, isolated, relatively homogenous, pre-industrial society. And even then, maybe not.
1
It was (almost) amusing when Dr. Rand interrupted and talked over Ms. Guthrie in order to criticize her for talking over him. He obviously suffers from Chris Christie Syndrome - upon being asked perfectly legitimate questions he finds prickly, involuntary bullying kicks in. Unless, for some mysterious reason, he is asked the same questions by Sean Hannity. Apparently the condition comes and goes, depending on which network's camera he's in front of.
This brings to mind David Brooks's column in which he lists various criteria important for candidates who want to be president: Emotional Maturity. Ooops.... sorry, Aqua Buddha-man.
This brings to mind David Brooks's column in which he lists various criteria important for candidates who want to be president: Emotional Maturity. Ooops.... sorry, Aqua Buddha-man.
254
After eight years of an unusually articulate and humane president, it is dispiriting to see that this is the level we are back to in our choices for President. I wish we could have a shot at Elizabeth Warren, but the corporatist machine will make that impossible.
I want to vote for the 2009 Rand Paul, but, of course, the Washington machine won't let me!
14
Right! Like most Republicans, he doesn't take any personal responsibility.
Isn't it odd for a libertarian to be anti-abortion? If that is really his position, I am surprised. Perhaps, like other Republicans, he favors prohibiting abortion in cases of rape because believes that it cannot be rape if conception occurs? Or is he just in favor of mandatory gynecological probes prior to letting the woman have an abortion? Please let us know.
165
He is also against gay marriage. One cannot be a libertarian and hold that position. The two are mutually exclusive. He's a liar and a coward. What does that mean, "before I got into politics". Insuspectbwhen he was free to speak his mind, which to me is a stunning admission of his pandering to ignorant republicans.
11
It's not really odd for a Libertarian to be against abortion. Libertarians believe in rights for people and a right to exist is the ultimate right and abortion takes that away. The bottom line is that abortion is the ending of a living being now matter how you look at it, or legalized murder.
In addition Rand is a doctor and has taken an oath to save lives not end them.
The whole idea that abortion is a women's right is laughable and a scam, it's not "her" body she is killing is it?
Anyway I can go on and on
In addition Rand is a doctor and has taken an oath to save lives not end them.
The whole idea that abortion is a women's right is laughable and a scam, it's not "her" body she is killing is it?
Anyway I can go on and on
Simple answer is he is a faux libertarian. Barry Goldwater who was a true libertarian supported gay and abortion rights.
Just being for legalization of marijuana doesn't make one a libertarian.
And isn't it interesting that when he goes to college campuses other than those of religious schools he fails to mention his position on same sex marriage and abortion but he remembers to mention them when he speaks before conservative audiences.
Not only is he is a hypocrite he's also a coward.
Just being for legalization of marijuana doesn't make one a libertarian.
And isn't it interesting that when he goes to college campuses other than those of religious schools he fails to mention his position on same sex marriage and abortion but he remembers to mention them when he speaks before conservative audiences.
Not only is he is a hypocrite he's also a coward.
231
I've been long intrigued by the, usually Republican, vow to "...take our country back".
Where did our country go?
Who's got it?
How did they get it?
How will we know when we've got it back?
How are we going to keep it from getting away again?
I could go on...
Where did our country go?
Who's got it?
How did they get it?
How will we know when we've got it back?
How are we going to keep it from getting away again?
I could go on...
326
emc - "take our country back" - must mean from the 1%!!!!
5
And you could add "Are you sure it was *your* country to begin with? What about everybody else who lived in it?"
10
Who let the country out?
Woof, woof, woof-woof
Woof, woof, woof-woof
49
Compare and contrast. Listen and watch Tom Friedman's interview with President Obama on the subject of Iran. How on earth can such a dingbat as Rand Paul get so far as this in the world's richest, most powerful and purportedly sophisticated society?
What should really be being discussed is where you can find another Barack Obama to stand in 2016 not only for the good of the United States but, just as importantly, the world at large. I am afraid Mrs. Clinton simply does not cut it. Perhaps it's time to amend the 22nd Amendment.
What should really be being discussed is where you can find another Barack Obama to stand in 2016 not only for the good of the United States but, just as importantly, the world at large. I am afraid Mrs. Clinton simply does not cut it. Perhaps it's time to amend the 22nd Amendment.
115
Yes, Obama at his best. Link:
www.nytimes.com/2015/04/10/us/obama-adviser-during-recession-is-given-ne...
www.nytimes.com/2015/04/10/us/obama-adviser-during-recession-is-given-ne...
2
With over 300 million people in this country, there has to be someone for this liberal to vote for beside Hillary!! I demand it!!
6
re elect Obama again,and again and again. He's just much smarter then the rest.
8
Ah yes, Rand Paul the Libertarian whose public utterances on social issues wants more, not less, government interference in private lives. It begs the question, why are we hearing nothing from the Libertarian Party?
89
I'm one of those people who thought Paul was interesting before he began to evolve. What I found most interesting was that he seemed to have conviction and was willing to buck the Gruesome Odious Party line. Over the past few months, though, he has inexorably "clarified" all those interesting positions into twisted primary calculations. Now he carries a slightly greasy air and is safely strapped into his seat in the clown car.
Yesterday, David Brooks wrote a love letter to Lincoln, hailing his finest qualities, saying those attributes are what we need in presidential candidates. In the process, unwittingly, he reminded many of us that most of those very fine attributes are currently on display in the Oval Office.
When I compare Paul's recent tortured performance to Obama's cool, strategic, measured leadership, I realize that the thought of Paul replacing Obama makes my stomach churn more than just a bit.
Yesterday, David Brooks wrote a love letter to Lincoln, hailing his finest qualities, saying those attributes are what we need in presidential candidates. In the process, unwittingly, he reminded many of us that most of those very fine attributes are currently on display in the Oval Office.
When I compare Paul's recent tortured performance to Obama's cool, strategic, measured leadership, I realize that the thought of Paul replacing Obama makes my stomach churn more than just a bit.
759
Leadership is far, far from oratory, HN.
Our current leader is full of measured sound and occasional fury, signifiying nothing.
Here's hoping you and other churners need to reach for your Peptol-Bismol. We could all use some fixin'.
Our current leader is full of measured sound and occasional fury, signifiying nothing.
Here's hoping you and other churners need to reach for your Peptol-Bismol. We could all use some fixin'.
I think Sen. Dr. Paul's bold stand against the Civil Rights Act to be extremely interesting.
71
Can we please ask Mr Obama to stay?
15
With apologies to Gilbert & Sullivan
My name is Rand Paul and I never ever hold my nose
When I vote for every bill Tea Partiers propose,
I once approved Obama's way of dealing with Iran
But that was once upon a tine before it hit the fan.
I am a libertarian just like the Brothers Koch,
And everything that they are for I'm ready to invoke,
I criticize Ms Clinton every time I get the chance
By doing so my reputation I hope to advance,
I expect to win,
Expects to win,
The nomination in Sixteen!
My name is Rand Paul and I never ever hold my nose
When I vote for every bill Tea Partiers propose,
I once approved Obama's way of dealing with Iran
But that was once upon a tine before it hit the fan.
I am a libertarian just like the Brothers Koch,
And everything that they are for I'm ready to invoke,
I criticize Ms Clinton every time I get the chance
By doing so my reputation I hope to advance,
I expect to win,
Expects to win,
The nomination in Sixteen!
79
"We have come to take our country back."
Well, at least Paul did not give his announcement in Philadelphia, MS., singing the praises of states' rights as Reagan did.
Don't you feel better now?
Well, at least Paul did not give his announcement in Philadelphia, MS., singing the praises of states' rights as Reagan did.
Don't you feel better now?
109
Kevin,
I would feel a whole lot better if Libertarians had rules of behaviour. Philadelphia, Mississippi is now part of the GOP DNA but there is a je ne sais quoi about the senator that makes him ill suited to carry the banner of the fun loving frolicking Libertarians of my youth.
I would feel a whole lot better if Libertarians had rules of behaviour. Philadelphia, Mississippi is now part of the GOP DNA but there is a je ne sais quoi about the senator that makes him ill suited to carry the banner of the fun loving frolicking Libertarians of my youth.
1
Another Gail Collins zinger (as expected): "Release the Kraken". Picture = 1000 words:
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/9/9d/Colossal_octopus_by_P...
Unfortunately, it's all too true, we are releasing the Kraken, and they're not Hillary. [Speaking of Hillary, please stop complaining that she's tough. She has to be. I dislike her compromises with corporate power (particularly big fossil), but she is not the cause of our media sorcerer's apprentice.]
http://www.skepticalscience.com//pics/2014Toon10.jpg
Another Kraken image here:
"IPCC preview: deep trouble brewing in our oceans "
http://theconversation.com/ipcc-preview-deep-trouble-brewing-in-our-ocea...
Now the Kraken is only a single monster with limited range, but the oceans ...
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/9/9d/Colossal_octopus_by_P...
Unfortunately, it's all too true, we are releasing the Kraken, and they're not Hillary. [Speaking of Hillary, please stop complaining that she's tough. She has to be. I dislike her compromises with corporate power (particularly big fossil), but she is not the cause of our media sorcerer's apprentice.]
http://www.skepticalscience.com//pics/2014Toon10.jpg
Another Kraken image here:
"IPCC preview: deep trouble brewing in our oceans "
http://theconversation.com/ipcc-preview-deep-trouble-brewing-in-our-ocea...
Now the Kraken is only a single monster with limited range, but the oceans ...
24
The line about taking "our" country back is infuriating. Why does a certain segment of the population see this country as theirs and only theirs? We are a wonderful mosaic of peoples - racially and culturally diverse, increasingly religiously pluralistic and the better for all of it. What we are not and never will be is a conservative, white, Christian country, though all of those categories are certainly welcome as part of the mosaic.
936
anne marie - Indeed; the underlying GOP'er campaign slogan is " It's our turn, again " with no discussion of what they did to the country the last time they had all the levers in their control, no mention of revising their policies since Dubya, no mention at all that de-regulation drove the planetary economy into the ditch.
By these omissions, all their candidates admit they are nothing but ' the lipstick on the pig ' that is the same ol' same ol' GOP we all know.
By these omissions, all their candidates admit they are nothing but ' the lipstick on the pig ' that is the same ol' same ol' GOP we all know.
64
Excellent question.
I think the clearest answer is the GOP doesn't want this society. The party doesn't want "a wonderful mosaic of peoples - racially and culturally diverse, increasingly religiously pluralistic."
Republicans want to be in control. It's another delusion clouding their judgment, but even more than that, it's a key reason to make sure Republicans don't win the White House until the party is ready to join - and work with - the rest of American society.
I think the clearest answer is the GOP doesn't want this society. The party doesn't want "a wonderful mosaic of peoples - racially and culturally diverse, increasingly religiously pluralistic."
Republicans want to be in control. It's another delusion clouding their judgment, but even more than that, it's a key reason to make sure Republicans don't win the White House until the party is ready to join - and work with - the rest of American society.
17
From whom should we reclaim our country? I'd understand the Native Americans saying this but as of now I don't know where Rand Paul feels he has a claim. Seriously, Rand this should be explained. Has some extraterrestrial group invaded us or is it that he wants to reclaim America for the rich white 1% or even the 10%. Please stop worrying they already have it, they own it and they control it. Your desire to "take our country back" has happened. In that case your campaign is moot.
14
One of my favorite Rand whoppers was his patently false claim on national TV that a young person with an income of $30,000 would be required by the ACA mandate to spend $15,000 on health insurance (correct answer: $1,995 or less). This was followed by more gross distortions.
http://www.politifact.com/truth-o-meter/article/2013/aug/16/rand-paul-st...
When a guy like Rand Paul gives us an "eductation" on a topic, you better count your change.
http://www.politifact.com/truth-o-meter/article/2013/aug/16/rand-paul-st...
When a guy like Rand Paul gives us an "eductation" on a topic, you better count your change.
417
His bigotry is enough to turn me off. And his attitude toward women is neanderthal. But the ignorance of the American people right now, does not inspire confidence that a jerk like Paul will not be elected. Jeb Bush is no better. The whole field of candidates from both political parties do not inspire terrific confidence. I wish what Bernie Sanders says could be taken seriously. I like him a lot. But would the democrat/republican corporation that owns the presidential debates, allow the likes of Bernie Sanders to talk about uncomforatble things in their debate? I highly doubt it.
329
This 72 year old gets terrified everytime I see how we have been dumbed down!! When did it become popular to be ignorant? Have I been in a coma for 20 years, and just woke up to a nightmare?
32
The Republican/Democrat debate committee got rid of the League of Women Voters running the debates because they were both too fair (equal time for all comers) and the questions were too hard (as in their positions on things that we actually should want answers to in a candidate.)
The presidential debates are a joke. The laugh is on us.
The presidential debates are a joke. The laugh is on us.
18
Watching the antics of the Senator, we were struck about how much the whole scenario is an amalgam of It's a Mad Mad Mad Mad World, A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum, with a soupcon of Dr. Strangelove ladled on top - the plot line appears to be nicely entertaining, with several GOP'ers vying to play Slim Pickens' role, and Zero Mostel's part, but we can't yet tell who will take up where Ethel Merman, Jonathan Winters, and Spencer Tracy left off.
But our main concern is that when the Senator was confronted about his various instances of plagiarism:
http://www.msnbc.com/rachel-maddow-show/watch/paul-launches-loud-and-cle...
he weaseled, craw-fished, and moaned about how hard it is to be a freshman GOP'er Senator with so many demands on his time; we should cut him some slack.
Since we haven't noticed 1600 Penn. as a place of relaxation compared to being a Ky. Senator, and since we can't recall any landmark legislation known as " the Rand Paul bill ", we're not sure why the Senator thinks he deserves a promotion ?
But maybe we're expecting too much plot - somebody pass the popcorn.
But our main concern is that when the Senator was confronted about his various instances of plagiarism:
http://www.msnbc.com/rachel-maddow-show/watch/paul-launches-loud-and-cle...
he weaseled, craw-fished, and moaned about how hard it is to be a freshman GOP'er Senator with so many demands on his time; we should cut him some slack.
Since we haven't noticed 1600 Penn. as a place of relaxation compared to being a Ky. Senator, and since we can't recall any landmark legislation known as " the Rand Paul bill ", we're not sure why the Senator thinks he deserves a promotion ?
But maybe we're expecting too much plot - somebody pass the popcorn.
400
Duke really exempted him from earning his BA and going right to medical school? I find that astounding. What reverse affirmative action plan was he on?
10
With Rachel Maddow as the third TV woman, we now have a TREND!
5
sir - Duke has apparently ended that program; surely it's not because fewer doctors need educating :)
gfrothe47 - Rachel's a hero !
gfrothe47 - Rachel's a hero !
8
We mustn't judge Rand Paul until we've walked a mile in his flip-flops. Republican presidential politics is a very difficult game, especially for the super-smart, because you've got to appear to be an ignoramus and presidential at the same time. Chris Christie had nearly perfected this strategy, until the GWB thing made him look vindictive and petty.
The problem is that Rand Paul had caused a bit of buzz by not sounding like a garden-variety Republicanus Vulgaris. But the last thing any Republican candidate wants to do is to enter the primary season with "ideas" that run counter to the Republican playbook, so he's got to get in line. Don't philosophize. Homogenize!
So he's treating all non-Fox news women as belligerent children who need a good talking-to, especially when they have the nerve to question him about his previous positions, which is just rude. This pleases the base, as does using sarcasm when, as a medial doctor, you're asked about mandatory vaccinations. Turns out he supports a parent's right to expose their children to potentially deadly diseases. What doctor wouldn't?
We need more Republican candidates like Rand Paul. They'll virtually guarantee another four years of a Democratic president.
The problem is that Rand Paul had caused a bit of buzz by not sounding like a garden-variety Republicanus Vulgaris. But the last thing any Republican candidate wants to do is to enter the primary season with "ideas" that run counter to the Republican playbook, so he's got to get in line. Don't philosophize. Homogenize!
So he's treating all non-Fox news women as belligerent children who need a good talking-to, especially when they have the nerve to question him about his previous positions, which is just rude. This pleases the base, as does using sarcasm when, as a medial doctor, you're asked about mandatory vaccinations. Turns out he supports a parent's right to expose their children to potentially deadly diseases. What doctor wouldn't?
We need more Republican candidates like Rand Paul. They'll virtually guarantee another four years of a Democratic president.
654
About your non-Fox news women, check out his recent interview with Megyn Kelly.
3
I'm not going to rush headlong into any judgement of Rand Paul or his flip flops until Jimmy Buffet weighs in.
7
In the end, Rand Paul's excessiveness will matter as much as Elizabeth Warren's: very little. That will happen when the two left standing are Hillary and Jeb; and when that happens, the comparisons will be such that any dreams of four more years of a Democratic president will be proven to be just that: dreams.
Rand Paul's so called Libertarianism however is dumbfounding. Although Libertarianism is a major course of study at the University of Manitiba the 1950s intellectuals who founded the political philosophy were probably as much concerned with an understanding of libertine being the operative word as anything to do with drowning the government in the bathtub.
I have often asked myself why Alisa Zinov'yevna Rosenbaum chose the name Ayn Rand and wondered if it was in respect to her randiness and the Ayn was paying homage to Anais Nin no doubt her favourite novelist.