Please inform me. I am sure if anyone does, we would see that the rank and file of democrats and republicans have alot in common. Notice I stated rank and file and not "leadership".
I will hold my opinion until I hear from the democrats on this question. I have an idea who the democrats are...let's see what their "values" are...
I don't identify myself as a *democrat*, however I do feel that my personal beliefs lean in a generally liberal direction. So I'm not so sure I'm the best person for the job.
Ok I'll bite: stolen from Midas and edited, since this seems to be the comparison document. WHAT I AM … first and foremost, is a loving father of three and an American who’s proud of his country… and his country’s heritage. – check, except I have no children WHAT I AM … is the great-great-grandson of LEGAL immigrants, on one side, and (founding fathers on the other) who risked everything, including their lives and those of their children, to escape tyranny in search of freedom. They came here, worked, wanted to learn English, and wanted to assimilate into America. They flew the American flag on their porch and stated proudly. "I am a American". – check WHAT I AM … is a man who's father grew up during the Depression and witnessed, first hand, the effects of the Stock Market crash and the soup lines that followed. I listened to family stories from both my parents and grand parents, who had very little themselves, of how they shared what food they had with a half dozen other families and neighbors, who had even less. – check (my parents became orchard farmers during the Depression to get by) WHAT I AM … is someone who worked his way through college by holding down jobs from hauling trash to bagging groceries and then used that education to build a better life. Ok you got me here, I took a Student Loan, got a scholarship from ROTC, and used inheritance money to get through college. After the army I have worked continuously for the Federal Government. WHAT I AM … is a man who believes in God; a God who has blessed this country… and all for which it stands. –check, a God that is personal to me, I do not belong to a formal church at this time, but that does not mean I don’t have my beliefs WHAT I AM … is someone who knows, if you doubt miracles exist in today’s world, you need only to look into the face of those who received them … and the eyes of those who give them. – check, every day there is something new to be learned and enjoyed. WHAT I AM … is an American who’s proud that his President embraces a belief in God; proud of a President who understands, as “politically incorrect” as it may be, there is evil in this world and for the security and safety of all freedom loving people everywhere, it must be confronted… and it must be defeated there instead of on this soil. – ok, to me God is a personal thing, I don’t like to see formalized religion used as a weapon. I am glad the President has beliefs in something far greater than himself. There is evil and when it appears it must be confronted. I don’t believe the U.S. has the unalienable right to invade when and where it wants to. Personally I feel this new Gulf War as an exercise in revenge and control of resources. I do believe we were somewhat deceived. Our objective were to deal with Al-Queda and capture Bin Laden, it’s going on 4 and a half years, and we have accomplished neither. Our goals follow the wind, and this it shouldn’t be. WHAT I AM … is an American who takes comfort in the knowledge that our President refuses to allow decisions concerning the very safety and security of this nation, to be governed by the political whims of foreign governments and the United Nations. – I see what your saying, but I’m not so sure said foreign governments don’t have a hand in these policies. I’m no expert, but I’m sure there is foreign money in our election system, if not directly then by proxy WHAT I AM … is tired of hearing from leading Democrats who see only negativity in America; racism in her people; class warfare in her society and “political incorrectness” in her character. It's getting old people. Get a platform that is positive...and by the way, more income tax redistribution is NOT positive. –check, totally agree WHAT I AM … is a former democrat who grew up in a "Harry Truman, John F. Kennedy Household" who now understands that it is the soldier and not the reporter that guarantees us our freedoms of press, speech and dissent. – check, 16 years of service myself, left the service before retirement due to acute diabetes. WHAT I AM … is a man who believes in the sanctity of life. A man who is repulsed by the pandering of the political left for votes, at the expense of the unborn. – I don’t like abortion, and, I don’t believe the government in any way should take a hand in supporting it or financing it. On the other hand, I believe that if a child is going to go through life unloved by uncaring parents and turn to criminal and anti-social activities this should be thought of. Not on an abortion level – maybe a couple should get government approval or a license to have a child. I don’t know very convoluted confusing issue. Since we don’t have children and would like to, it even adds another layer of confusion. $30K to adopt. WHAT I AM … is a citizen who is repulsed by those insecure, socially inept, elementary thinking, ego-inflated “entertainers” who have appointed themselves “experts” in the fields of national security and geo-politics and then use their forum to attack this nation, its leaders, and its actions…. much to the delight, support, and encouragement of our enemies. – check, yep, couldn’t give a wild rats ass what Christina Aguilara’s (sp) et al’s political stand is WHAT I AM … is an American who understands the difference between “censorship” and “choice”. Evidently, these individuals do not, because when these same “celebrities” receive public ridicule for their offensive actions, the first thing they yell is “Censorship!”. What they seem incapable of understanding is… the right of free speech and dissent is shared equally by those offended… as well as those who offend. I support and will continue to support those films and performers whom I choose to … and refuse to support those I don’t. It is my right as an American … a right I will continue to enthusiastically exercise. –check, I guess not a high priority for me, but I agree with you WHAT I AM … is a voter, tired of politicians and supreme court nominees, who, every time their records are subjected to public scrutiny, try to divert attention from their political and legislative failures by accusing their opponents of “attack ads” and “negative campaigning”…. and the news media who allow them to get away with it. –check, I despise dirty fights by those who can’t confront the issues. WHAT I AM … is a Catholic who loves his God and his Faith… and who’s been taught to respect all religions whose teachings are based in love, peace and charity. As such, I am embarrassed and ashamed of those individuals, in both private and public life, whose decisions and actions are devoid of any sense of character or morals; individuals who are only driven by what’s best for them … rather than what’s right … often times at the expense of many …. including our national security. – check, raised Protestant Lutheran here WHAT I AM … is a realist who understands that the terrorist attack that murdered hundreds of innocent Russian children could have occurred here, in our heartland. That’s why I sincerely believe America needs now, more than ever, a leader who sees with a clear and focused vision and who speaks with a voice when heard by both friend and foe alike, is understood, respected and believed. – sorry, I’m not familiar with this particular news issue, but I totally agree, with this leader mold. I pray to God that someday we will have one. WHAT I AM … is eternally grateful to Ronald Reagan (who made me switch parties) for having the bravery to speak out against Communism and the courage of his convictions in leading the fight to defeat it; and George W. Bush for the vision, courage, conviction and leadership he has shown in America’s war on terrorism amidst both the constant and vicious, personal and political attacks both he and his family are made to endure. – check, Ronald Reagan was a good, caring and thoughtful man, I’m afraid I don’t feel all warm and fuzzy about G.W. The Presidency is an open book, they know what they are getting into, and they know what to expect anymore. Personally I preferred the days when Presidents didn’t even run for office, their people did, and his personal affairs were.. personal affairs. But again, he is drawing an exceptionally irreverent volley of flak daily. WHAT I AM … is a human being, full of numerous faults and failures, but a man nonetheless, who, though not always successful, has continually strived to do “what’s right” instead of “what’s easy”. A man who is challenging the religious leaders of all faiths, to not only preach to their congregations the fundamentals of “what’s right” and “what’s wrong”, but to also then hold them accountable for their actions in both the public and private sectors. – check WHAT I AM … is disgusted with the Courts who, on one hand, call the murder of a pregnant woman a “double homicide” but then refer to the abortion of her baby as, “pro-choice”. – touchy issue, but then again that is why we have the federal justice system with appeals and a Supreme Court to give weight and conscience to this system WHAT I AM … is someone who hopes to open the eyes of those led blindly by ill-informed elements of our great nation, who, through either ignorance, or malicious intent, repeatedly attack and belittle those of us who belong to a political party that holds true to the belief, “… the rights of the governed, exceed the power of the government”. – political parties – you know George Washington abhorred them. The one mistake I think our founding fathers made was setting up a bi-cameral legislative body instead of following the English example of Parliament. Washington was right, it may take 250 years, but political parties will destroy this nation. WHAT I AM … is a man who understands, “the American way of life” is a message of self-empowerment for all. I understand that people that work harder, study longer, make smart decisions, and risk it all make this free country go. - exactly WHAT I AM … is an American who is grateful that our nation gives each of us the opportunity of self-determination and the right to benefit from the fruits of self achievement. – I agree with your thoughts, but living/working in Detroit, I see first hand that for the vast majority of minorities (and i'm talking inner city here) there isn’t this opportunity of self-determination. You join the military if you want to try to get out. But it’s a generational after generational hole that they are digging. A lot of these individuals don’t even have the spark or beginning of direction to succeed. It’s a very strong man that can overcome his past and destiny. Unfortunately very strong men, are not the norm. WHAT I AM … is an American who wants to preserve that way of life for all who seek it. – yes, and I’d like to see the billions of dollars that are shot down range each day in the middle east to be utilized for education and help to those that don’t understand or get this God given blessing, and I’m not talking Welfare! WHAT I AM … is blessed to be an American…. and proud to be Republican. – I am proud to be an American, but even on either parties good days, I find it difficult to be proud of the vast majority of politicians.
I am registered as a Dem. I do not always agree with my political party though. I am very aware that Dem leaders receive large contributions from various special interests and are improperly influenced, but they are not as bad as Republicans on this. I am aware that Dems over tax and spend improperly but again they are not as bad as Republicans on this. I am aware that Dems can get caught up in the momentum of an ill-concieved war, but again they are not as bad as Republicans. The Dem party is the worst party in America except for all of the others.
Isn't this a little like saying you date hookers, but only the ones that don't charge so much. Because they are better than the ones who charge a lot. In other words, the only thing you are concerned with is the price. Great guy!
So, Old Dan, does that mean you'd compare Republicans to those who date hookers and don't care how much it costs?
So with one thoughtful response from an acknowlege democrat, I see that I have as much in common with him as with the republicans in their thread then not.
I could understand that for their are liberal republicans as well as liberal democrats, and independents who may lean in a liberal direction but have other thoughts on different topics as well.
I would feel more like a Democrat if they took more of a stand for individual liberties. It seems like they pick and choose too much when it comes to defending rights. Very vocal about infringing on free speech. Most of the time, anyway. But what about gun ownership? I don't own a gun, and I'm not much interested in it. But darned if it's not just as explicitly featured in the Bill of Rights as anything else. I'm not a smoker, and I hate cigarettes. But it annoys the heck out of me that our local Democratic government has passed a smoking ban for restaurants. I find myself agree with certain aspects of Dems and Repubs, but never all it from a single source. And half the time, their prime candidates come off as unclear thinkers or lacking integrity.
Sorry Bluegill, but I'm not making comparisons between anyone. It was Danr who was making comparisons, so you would have to ask him this question. I bet I could tell you what he would say, if Moen would allow him to say it.
What you used was a simile, a comparison using the words "like" or "as." You said, "Isn't this a little like saying you date hookers, but only the ones that don't charge so much. Because they are better than the ones who charge a lot. In other words, the only thing you are concerned with is the price." You made a comparison. (I'm not trying to single you out to pick on. It's just a rare opportunity I have to point out a contradiction without having to do research. And yes, I might be pointless.) I think you could extend the comparison to say that voting Republican is like only dating pricey hookers. You might feel scummy, but at least you don't need to worry about the price.
A democrat is an idiot. By their title they are stating that they believe America should be a democracy, which is totally wrong and stupid. CraigG
Well I don’t get what is so off the mark here. de·moc·ra·cy n. pl. de·moc·ra·cies 1. Government by the people, exercised either directly or through elected representatives. 2. A political or social unit that has such a government. 3. The common people, considered as the primary source of political power. 4. Majority rule. 5. The principles of social equality and respect for the individual within a community. dem·o·crat·ic adj. 1. Of, characterized by, or advocating democracy: democratic government; a democratic union. 2. Of or for the people in general; popular: a democratic movement; democratic art forms. 3. Believing in or practicing social equality: “a proper democratic scorn for bloated dukes and lords” (George du Maurier). 4. Democratic Of, relating to, or characteristic of the Democratic Party.
I always thought that a Democrat Republic was a good thing and I will not go into it for Lincoln defined it just fine at the Gettysburg Address.
You are absolutely right, I used the word "like" so it was a comparison. Thank you for making the correction. If you wish to make the comparison with Republicans, go right ahead. I have no problem with such a statement.
4. Majority rule. Hah! Only a fool would advocate that! Let me quote you a few famous people, my friend: Benjamin Rush, signer of the Unanimous Declaration: "A simple democracy... is one of the greatest of evils." James Madison: "Democracies have ever been spectacles of turbulence and contention; have ever been found incompatible with personal security, or the rights of property; and have, in general, been as short in their lives as they have been violent in their deaths." Noah Webster: "In democracy...there are commonly tumults and disorders.... Therefore a pure democracy is generally a very bad government." "Our citizens should early understand that the genuine source of correct republican principles is the Bible, particularly the New Testament, or the Christian religion." What do you say to that? When I tell most people this, they act so illogical that I'm like: :headbang: Then they :vanish:, and I never see them again. You really have to :hammer: on their heads until the :hatch: finally cracks open and they start thinking. Regards, CraigG
when you tell people this... *thay* act so illogical? Hello Pot, this is Kettle... Long time, no see.
So you're calling me illogical. Why didn't you tell me exactly WHAT I said that was so illogical. Not doing that is pretty illogical, don't you think. I know! Lets have a pencil fight! encil: Regards CraigG
no, I really don't think that. Where do I begin? You call democrats 'stupid': ad hominem. Your statement attacks the person, not the beliefs or arguments. You cite "Our citizens should early understand that the genuine source of correct republican principles is the Bible, particularly the New Testament, or the Christian religion.": argument ad populum, commonly known as the bandwagon fallacy. You say "When I tell most people this, they act so illogical that I'm like: :headbang: " petitio principii, circular reasoning. Beyond this, I have issues with these threads. Simply put, a democrat is a person who subscribes to the democratic party or their platforms. A republican is a person who subscribes to the republican party or their platforms. Period. Politics should not define a person. Because a person is caring and a republican it does not mean that a republican is a caring person - it means that person is caring and a republican. Politics, like logic, is a human creation. It is a tool. Just as one cannot make a horse faster by feeding it a better grade of gasoline, a person cannot be defined by their political affiliations, nor can the various aspects of a single person within the party redefine a the elements of their political affiliation. That is illogical.
