Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Politics / Homo Democrats To Gay Americans: Fuck You. Now Write Us a Check.
Posted by Dan Savage on Tue, Jun 16, 2009 at 8:59 AM
Obama is defending DOMA in the vilest possible terms—comparing gay marriage to incest and child rape—and he refuses to use the powers at his disposal right now to suspend enforcement of DADT. Harry Reid, speaking for the Democratic majority in Congress, says there will be no legislative action on DADT. But, hey, we're all invited to the Democratic National Committee's LGBT Leadership Council's annual fundraising dinner!
Pam Spaulding got her hands on the email invite sent out by Andrew Tobias, treasurer of the Democratic National Committee and an openly gay man. Tobias lists the gay luminaries planning to attend the DNC's fundraiser. Two of the luminaries on the list—David Mixner and Andy Towle—have already pulled out of the event. Others on the list—Keith Boykin, Billy Bean, reps from GLAAD, HRC, and NGLTF—should follow suit. And Pam is asking her readers to contact the event's biggest gay draws—Rep. Barney Frank, Rep. Tammie Baldwin, Rep. Jared Polis—and politely ask them to pull out as well.
Rep. Barney Frank:
2252 Rayburn Building
Washington, DC 20515
tel: (202) 225-5931
fax: (202) 225-0182Rep. Tammy Baldwin
2446 Rayburn Building
Washington DC 20515
(202) 225-6942 Fax
(202) 225-2906
Email FormRep. Jared Polis
Washington, DC Office
501 Cannon HOB
Washington, DC 20515
p. 202.225.2161
f. 202.226.7840
Gay people still planning to attend this event—gay people who respond to the administration's personal attacks on them by writing a check—need to have their heads examined. Contact Barney, Tammie, and Jared, and ask them to pull out of the event and issue a joint press release detailing why they're pulling out.
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1
I voted for Tammy when I used to live in her district, and was proud to have her as my Congresswoman. I called to register my concern.
3
No Max, you see, as a sex columnist, Dan has huge sway over the national dialogue and needs to force this!!! Yup yup Dan is a very important gay.
Furthering the perceptions that gays are kinky freak sluts does a lot for the movement, you see!
Furthering the perceptions that gays are kinky freak sluts does a lot for the movement, you see!
4
hey look, dan saavage, Mr. Say Yes to the Iraq War, is now practicing Hate Speech.....
You're just as bad as them, dan.
Your hate talk is does NOTHING productive for our cause!
YOU DON'T UNDERSTAND POLITICS DAN, SO DO US A FAVOR AND GO BACK TO TALKING ABOUT BLOWJOBS.
Stop. Just stop. Please stop.
You're just as bad as them, dan.
Your hate talk is does NOTHING productive for our cause!
YOU DON'T UNDERSTAND POLITICS DAN, SO DO US A FAVOR AND GO BACK TO TALKING ABOUT BLOWJOBS.
Stop. Just stop. Please stop.
5
hey look, dan saavage, Mr. Say Yes to the Iraq War, is now practicing Hate Speech.....
You're just as bad as them, dan.
Your hate talk is does NOTHING productive for our cause!
YOU DON'T UNDERSTAND POLITICS DAN, SO DO US A FAVOR AND GO BACK TO TALKING ABOUT BLOWJOBS.
Stop. Just stop. Please stop.
You're just as bad as them, dan.
Your hate talk is does NOTHING productive for our cause!
YOU DON'T UNDERSTAND POLITICS DAN, SO DO US A FAVOR AND GO BACK TO TALKING ABOUT BLOWJOBS.
Stop. Just stop. Please stop.
6
Dan is being intently disingenious. He is implying that the Administration is saying "homosexuality is kind of like raping your underage sister." And that's simply not the case.
7
Just called all three - with varying responses.
Frank's office: Sounded sort of annoyed.
Baldwin's office: Supportive, and claims that she will be making a public statement today. Also mentioned that they are getting many responses on this issue.
Polis's office: Will note comments on the call log.
I may not be able to send faxes, since our main fax machine is down, but if I can I will.
Frank's office: Sounded sort of annoyed.
Baldwin's office: Supportive, and claims that she will be making a public statement today. Also mentioned that they are getting many responses on this issue.
Polis's office: Will note comments on the call log.
I may not be able to send faxes, since our main fax machine is down, but if I can I will.
8
@6: Please read the NYT editorial...
The brief insists it is reasonable for states to favor heterosexual marriages because they are the “traditional and universally recognized form of marriage.” In arguing that other states do not have to recognize same-sex marriages under the Constitution’s “full faith and credit” clause, the Justice Department cites decades-old cases ruling that states do not have to recognize marriages between cousins or an uncle and a niece.
These are comparisons that understandably rankle many gay people. In a letter to President Obama on Monday, Joe Solmonese, president of the Human Rights Campaign, a gay rights organization, said, “I cannot overstate the pain that we feel as human beings and as families when we read an argument, presented in federal court, implying that our own marriages have no more constitutional standing than incestuous ones.”
9
Gibbs said that the Obama administration will not cross a picket line to make appearances. Let's make a fucking picket line and see if they make exceptions when it comes to raising money for themselves.
12
Dan, you ARE being intently disingenuous. Even with the highlighted portion you just provided at 8
You assume a niece is a child because you infer the relationship is that of guardian(uncle)/underage child(niece).
It makes no mention of child rape, only the relation. Adult nieces may want to marry their adult uncles. It makes mention of inter-family relations, which is still despicable, but your CHILD RAAAAAAAPE charge is overboard.
If you can't recognize that, then you are not much of a critical thinker
marriages between cousins or an uncle and a niece
You assume a niece is a child because you infer the relationship is that of guardian(uncle)/underage child(niece).
It makes no mention of child rape, only the relation. Adult nieces may want to marry their adult uncles. It makes mention of inter-family relations, which is still despicable, but your CHILD RAAAAAAAPE charge is overboard.
If you can't recognize that, then you are not much of a critical thinker
14
#12: You're not much of a reader: the brief went on to cite cases of underage marriage in addition to the uncle/niece scenario.
15
OH SHIT. Well, if you're going to support your case with quotes, at least provide the evidence!
I'm not much of a reader, no, I only read SLOG. So when SLOG doesn't provide me with the goods, what the fuck do you expect.
I'm not much of a reader, no, I only read SLOG. So when SLOG doesn't provide me with the goods, what the fuck do you expect.
17
@15: Clearly you don't remember the outrage over the "prop 8 is the fault of black people" thing.
18
Dan you are being disingenuous. The brief is based on existing case law, which is the basis for most if not all arguments in briefs. If you are arguing an issue that deals with the full faith and credit clause and marriage, and that is the only case law that exists, then that's what you use. If you look at the arguments in the abstract, and remove the actual acts, then it makes sense, and that is what you do in a brief.
Your lack of understanding of the legal process is frustrating, as you pick and choose what to hear, and then push it out there as the sacred truth that is incontrovertible.
I'm for equal rights for gays, but I'm not for a witch hunt that engages in the same type of hyperbole and mischaracterization that we all suffered through during the Bush years.
Your lack of understanding of the legal process is frustrating, as you pick and choose what to hear, and then push it out there as the sacred truth that is incontrovertible.
I'm for equal rights for gays, but I'm not for a witch hunt that engages in the same type of hyperbole and mischaracterization that we all suffered through during the Bush years.
19
It's great for people to get angry and mobilized, but um, again, since there's no clear judicial path to getting DOMA overturned with this supreme court, shouldn't our attention be focused on the legislature? Wouldn't your energy be better spent calling up Reid & Pelosi?
I'm sorry to repeat myself, I know that it's irritating, but it still seems like a lot of people don't have a handle on the basic issues of fact before us. Such as:
1)Where was the court case where this issue was being argued?
2)Who were the plaintiffs?
3)What would a successful ruling in their favor have meant?
4)How does this DOMA challenge compare to others, presently & historically?
5)What are the reasons one might favor a judicial strategy for overturning DOMA?
6)On the other hand, what are the reasons one might favor a legislative strategy?
7)What is generally the role of the DOJ in such cases? If there exists precedent for the DOJ to decline to defend a law, what is the criteria for being able to do so?
8) What was Obama's actual campaign promise? Did he pledge to work to overturn DOMA judicially or legislatively?
I don't blame anyone for being angry about the inflammatory language in the brief, or frustrated with the lack of legislative progress. But if you can't answer all of those 8 questions, I don't think you have grounds for arguing that Obama's position has been anything less than consistent.
I'm sorry to repeat myself, I know that it's irritating, but it still seems like a lot of people don't have a handle on the basic issues of fact before us. Such as:
1)Where was the court case where this issue was being argued?
2)Who were the plaintiffs?
3)What would a successful ruling in their favor have meant?
4)How does this DOMA challenge compare to others, presently & historically?
5)What are the reasons one might favor a judicial strategy for overturning DOMA?
6)On the other hand, what are the reasons one might favor a legislative strategy?
7)What is generally the role of the DOJ in such cases? If there exists precedent for the DOJ to decline to defend a law, what is the criteria for being able to do so?
8) What was Obama's actual campaign promise? Did he pledge to work to overturn DOMA judicially or legislatively?
I don't blame anyone for being angry about the inflammatory language in the brief, or frustrated with the lack of legislative progress. But if you can't answer all of those 8 questions, I don't think you have grounds for arguing that Obama's position has been anything less than consistent.
20
Is this where the "child rape" comparison is derived from?
The brief compares gay marriage to incestuous and underage marriages on page 18, lines 2-11 (quoted below).
"And the courts have widely held that certain marriages
performed elsewhere need not be given effect, because they conflicted with the public policy of the
forum. See, e.g., Catalano v. Catalano, 170 A.2d 726, 728-29 (Conn. 1961) (marriage of uncle to
niece, "though valid in Italy under its laws, was not valid in Connecticut because it contravened the
public policy of th[at] state"); Wilkins v. Zelichowski, 140 A.2d 65, 67-68 (N.J. 1958) (marriage of
16-year-old female held invalid in New Jersey, regardless of validity in Indiana where performed, in
light of N.J. policy reflected in statute permitting adult female to secure annulment of her underage
marriage); In re Mortenson's Estate, 316 P.2d 1106 (Ariz. 1957) (marriage of first cousins held
invalid in Arizona, though lawfully performed in New Mexico, given Arizona policy reflected in
statute declaring such marriages "prohibited and void")."
The brief compares gay marriage to incestuous and underage marriages on page 18, lines 2-11 (quoted below).
"And the courts have widely held that certain marriages
performed elsewhere need not be given effect, because they conflicted with the public policy of the
forum. See, e.g., Catalano v. Catalano, 170 A.2d 726, 728-29 (Conn. 1961) (marriage of uncle to
niece, "though valid in Italy under its laws, was not valid in Connecticut because it contravened the
public policy of th[at] state"); Wilkins v. Zelichowski, 140 A.2d 65, 67-68 (N.J. 1958) (marriage of
16-year-old female held invalid in New Jersey, regardless of validity in Indiana where performed, in
light of N.J. policy reflected in statute permitting adult female to secure annulment of her underage
marriage); In re Mortenson's Estate, 316 P.2d 1106 (Ariz. 1957) (marriage of first cousins held
invalid in Arizona, though lawfully performed in New Mexico, given Arizona policy reflected in
statute declaring such marriages "prohibited and void")."
21
@18 and other douchebags. Here's the deal, okay?
The full faith and credit clause requires state A to recognize acts from state B (marriage, judgments, parenthood, adoption, contracts, etc.) unless it's contrary to state A's "public policy." That's not code words for what you think (normal public policy questions like how big should a housing levy be), it's code words for "things State A thinks are so vile and disgusting they don't have to give recognition." so examples would be a contract ro purchase a heoin importing business; a marriage with a goat; or Saudi Arabia's marriage of a dude wtih 15 wives. The specific examples cited in an brief don't matter it's the fundamental concept that matters: Obama is supporting the notion gay marriage -- thus gayness itself, the human beings and their aspirations and love relations --is vile and disgusting.
So please stop with the anal layweristic quibbling. Dan is spot on and this is the biggest fuck you ever, the equivalent to the DRED SCOTT DECISION in saying "HEY GAY PEOPLE YOU ARE VILE AND DISGUSTING AND LESS THAN HUMAN."
Now as to what to do?
Just boyoctting an event is wussy wuss. Getting people to boycott is wussy wuss. Withrdrawing your checkbook, also wussy wuss. Gays should be at that DNC event with signs and protesting and a fucking picket line like Carollani said.
Getting every fucking Hollywood star to join them and asking the public to join in and getting a crowd of 3000 or if possible 10000 or if possible 100,000.
Good god folks if fire fighters in Providence can have the fortitude to create a picket line that politicians observe -- over the normal labor issues -- it's time for a picket line about basic human decency and dignity.
As WC said, KBO all.
More...
The full faith and credit clause requires state A to recognize acts from state B (marriage, judgments, parenthood, adoption, contracts, etc.) unless it's contrary to state A's "public policy." That's not code words for what you think (normal public policy questions like how big should a housing levy be), it's code words for "things State A thinks are so vile and disgusting they don't have to give recognition." so examples would be a contract ro purchase a heoin importing business; a marriage with a goat; or Saudi Arabia's marriage of a dude wtih 15 wives. The specific examples cited in an brief don't matter it's the fundamental concept that matters: Obama is supporting the notion gay marriage -- thus gayness itself, the human beings and their aspirations and love relations --is vile and disgusting.
So please stop with the anal layweristic quibbling. Dan is spot on and this is the biggest fuck you ever, the equivalent to the DRED SCOTT DECISION in saying "HEY GAY PEOPLE YOU ARE VILE AND DISGUSTING AND LESS THAN HUMAN."
Now as to what to do?
Just boyoctting an event is wussy wuss. Getting people to boycott is wussy wuss. Withrdrawing your checkbook, also wussy wuss. Gays should be at that DNC event with signs and protesting and a fucking picket line like Carollani said.
Getting every fucking Hollywood star to join them and asking the public to join in and getting a crowd of 3000 or if possible 10000 or if possible 100,000.
Good god folks if fire fighters in Providence can have the fortitude to create a picket line that politicians observe -- over the normal labor issues -- it's time for a picket line about basic human decency and dignity.
As WC said, KBO all.
23
with-hold votes and checks and they'll come around!
all praise adam lambert!
http://mtmbloglife.wordpress.com/2009/06…
all praise adam lambert!
http://mtmbloglife.wordpress.com/2009/06…
24
@#19 Who the hell do you think you are to inform anyone on whether or not they have a right to be frustrated or upset? People are absolutely justified in their anger, even if they dont have a smarmy lawyer like understanding of the facts like you. Fuck you.
People are pissed off because they were promised that Obama would be their 'fierce advocate'. People are pissed off because Obama's administration is now arguing that they don't discriminate against gay people, its just that they only recognize heterosexuals. And the fact that Obama is arguing that allowing gays to marry just isn't cost effective. People are pissed off that Obama has decided to let Dont Ask Dont Tell stand. People are pissed off that Obama has decided to put off dealing with our civil rights, until the "sunset of his term". It's my fucking life and future, and I voted for the guy because he made a lot of promises that he now feels like he doesnt have to keep. Other people may be willing to drink the kool aid and pretend like the ignorant and terrible brief he filed in defense of DOMA, and his refusal to end DADT are fine as long as he fixes health care - but I am not.
People are pissed off because they were promised that Obama would be their 'fierce advocate'. People are pissed off because Obama's administration is now arguing that they don't discriminate against gay people, its just that they only recognize heterosexuals. And the fact that Obama is arguing that allowing gays to marry just isn't cost effective. People are pissed off that Obama has decided to let Dont Ask Dont Tell stand. People are pissed off that Obama has decided to put off dealing with our civil rights, until the "sunset of his term". It's my fucking life and future, and I voted for the guy because he made a lot of promises that he now feels like he doesnt have to keep. Other people may be willing to drink the kool aid and pretend like the ignorant and terrible brief he filed in defense of DOMA, and his refusal to end DADT are fine as long as he fixes health care - but I am not.
25
Is there any cross reference to back up this claim, Dan?
"comparing gay marriage to incest and child rape"
"comparing gay marriage to incest and child rape"
26
I've made an event to protest the fundraiser on Join the Impact: http://jointheimpact.wetpaint.com/thread…
Spread the word- enough with the complaining. If we want to confront the administration, let's confront them.
Spread the word- enough with the complaining. If we want to confront the administration, let's confront them.
27
I like how what the motion actually said and what it's being asserted to say is becoming more and more distant, like some sort of Blog Rage Redshift.
The motion didn't do anything close to "comparing gay marriage to incest and child rape," and you're just continuing to demonstrate that you don't give a fuck what it actually said.
The motion didn't do anything close to "comparing gay marriage to incest and child rape," and you're just continuing to demonstrate that you don't give a fuck what it actually said.
28
@24 Read my comment again; I did say pretty clearly that people have a right to feel angry and hurt and frustrated. But your anger is going to be a lot more productive if it's fully informed anger.
I just don't think there are grounds to say that Obama's position has been less than consistent, or that he's broken promises on this issue. It's smart to put pressure on him to make sure he delivers. But we owe it to ourselves to be really informed before making sweeping claims.
I just don't think there are grounds to say that Obama's position has been less than consistent, or that he's broken promises on this issue. It's smart to put pressure on him to make sure he delivers. But we owe it to ourselves to be really informed before making sweeping claims.
29
Getting Baker v. Nelson stripped, combatting the HRC's move for a T-less ENDA, taking Barney Frank to task, demanding a federal question on DOMA, pushing for housing equality, HIV awareness and aid...
...those are suddenly issues as of Friday?
Way to be caught unaware, guys.
...those are suddenly issues as of Friday?
Way to be caught unaware, guys.
30
You know who we should really be mad at right now? Harry Reid. He's failed to find a sponsor for DADT in the senate.
http://www.bilerico.com/2009/06/no_spons…
http://www.bilerico.com/2009/06/no_spons…
33
I don't mean to sound stupid. But this issue and Mr. Savage's position is a lot less complicated then people seem to be making it. President Obama won the democratic nomination by going to Senator Clinton's left and appealing to, among others, the GLBT community. He made promises, and called for change (it was on his posters I think). Until this point there has been little opportunity to change or pay attention to said promises,but then when an opportunity arose to say "Oh no, I would never ever defend DADT or DOMA! Remember, I said I was against those things- they're just terrible." He let his administration support both of them as fervently as the previous administration. He took our votes, he took our money then, as so many politicians have done in the past, ignored us or used us to score cheap political points. Everyone who cares about this issue has a right to be angry and has a right to express that. This is the only way that politicians can be held to their promises. We (GLBT people) have to stop acting like we are a political liability or else we can continue to expect to be treated like one. As far as the idea that I would be worse off with the Republicans, fine- I agree, but I don't think "Vote Democrat, we are somewhat less interested in fucking you over than the other guy." is a very good slogan.
34
We don't live in a Democracy.
We live in a Democratic Republic.
If you live in Seattle, your Representative is Jim McDermott and you get two Senators.
Beyond them, we don't even directly elect the President - he was elected by the Supreme Court - oh, wait that was 2000 - um ... by the Electoral College in a 2:1 vote after they used the Diebold machine counts sanctioned by the Supreme Court.
We live in a Democratic Republic.
If you live in Seattle, your Representative is Jim McDermott and you get two Senators.
Beyond them, we don't even directly elect the President - he was elected by the Supreme Court - oh, wait that was 2000 - um ... by the Electoral College in a 2:1 vote after they used the Diebold machine counts sanctioned by the Supreme Court.
35
Dan, you may technically be able to "read", but you have absolutely no reading COMPREHENSION abilities. Also, you are once again woefully ignorant about how the legal process works and the use of case law in legal briefs. Just shut the fuck up, dude. You don't know what you're talking about. It's not as if Obama can wake up one day and repeal DOMA. This isn't a monarchy, douche. And before I read the words "executive order" from you, just stop. It's not a legally plausible option and to pretend that it is is just you lying once again. You should be focused like a laser beam on the legislature if you want this thing repealed. Reading the NY times does not make you a lawyer, so just shut the fuck up about anything legally related. The law is a lot more complex than telling someone how to give a good blow job. I'm sorry that your tiny brain isn't able to grasp difficult legal concepts. Stick to what you know.
36
@21, as for that anal lawyeristic quabbling, you are right, that overall it is bullshit, but that is how the law works, all your righteous anger is not going to change that, if your advocating for a whole new legal system, cool, but if your talking about this brief in our current legal system, then these are the rules we play by, so you either deal with it, and deal with it with some intellectual honesty, or just shut the fuck up.
Again, I'm for equal rights, and I agree with Kevin, why isn't this anger directed at Congress, they are the ones that have the power to repel DOMA, and they haven't done anything, even with a majority of both houses.
But hey, let your anger and frustration blind you to the point where you call those that support your cause but differ on the how to achieve it a douchebag.
Again, I'm for equal rights, and I agree with Kevin, why isn't this anger directed at Congress, they are the ones that have the power to repel DOMA, and they haven't done anything, even with a majority of both houses.
But hey, let your anger and frustration blind you to the point where you call those that support your cause but differ on the how to achieve it a douchebag.
37
@28 How you can read DOMA brief, and then look at Obama's campaign rhetoric and say that his message is consistent is beyond me. How you can look at his decision to continue to allow the military to dishonorably discharge veterans, and then look at what he said about Dont Ask Dont Tell before he was elected and claim that he hasnt broken any promises is also beyond me. The best he is willing to do is offer vague estimates that he may act on DOMA and DADT "before the sun sets on his administration", which reads to me as "if I still have the time and political capital".
At least Bush and the Republicans are honest about how they feel about me and my civil rights. Obama and the Federal Democrats, however, feel that all they need to do is sell homosexuals a bill of goods, and then claim political bankruptcy when the check comes due. There is NEVER going to be a good time to advance our civil rights. It's NEVER going to be politically convenient. Those of you who are content to wait until "the sun sets" on Obama's term are more likely than not to keep on waiting as you are denied healthcare, adoption, survivors benefits, taypaying parity, the right to defend your country, etc etc right on through to the next snake of a president.
At least Bush and the Republicans are honest about how they feel about me and my civil rights. Obama and the Federal Democrats, however, feel that all they need to do is sell homosexuals a bill of goods, and then claim political bankruptcy when the check comes due. There is NEVER going to be a good time to advance our civil rights. It's NEVER going to be politically convenient. Those of you who are content to wait until "the sun sets" on Obama's term are more likely than not to keep on waiting as you are denied healthcare, adoption, survivors benefits, taypaying parity, the right to defend your country, etc etc right on through to the next snake of a president.
38
36 That's what they do. It's all or nothing and if you don't agree it's off with your head, a douchebag, a troll or anything else they can come up with.
40
I just recieved an email from the DNC via Barackobama.com. Like many such emails I get on a regular basis, it was talking about what the Adminstration is doing and asking me to "Donate Now" This particular email was on health care reform and the subject was :
"This is why"
Here is my response:
-------------------------------------------
From: *******@aol.com
To: info@barackobama.com
Date:Tue, Jun 16, 2009 10:25 am
Mr President,
I read the email you sent me entitled "This is why". I am not responding to your email's subject. On the issue of health care reform you and I largely agree. You have even met with my boss, George Halvorson, to discuss that issue on a number of occasions.
I am writng to tell you that I cannot donate any more money to you, nor can I give any money to the Democratic party.
This is why...
You have said loudly and clearly that, even though I was born here, I am not an equal citizen of the United States. You have said loudly and clearly that my relationship with my partner, is no different that an incestuous relationship between an Uncle and his niece.
In the brief your administration filed last week in full throated defense of DOMA; you made it clear that you were lying when as a candidate you said you felt the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) was abhorrent. You have also made it clear that all your statements about LGBT equality were nothing more than campaign rhetoric to enlist my financial support.
Mr. President, if you truly think that in the space of less than a week, you can call me unworthy of equal protection under the law then, turn around and ask me for money? You are either compeltely out of touch with reality, or the smarmiest poltical opportunist since Karl Rove.
Not much hope there Mr. President, but a lot of audacity, I'll give you that.
So no, Mr. President, I will not "Donate Now!", or ever again. Nor will any of my family or friends "Donate Now", until we hear from you, an equally full throated apology for the hateful, bigoted and discriminatory things your Adminstration has said about me, about my family and about millions of Americans just like me.
Doctor Howard Dean, last night on MSNBC was very careful to emphasize how much better the LGBT community is with the Democratic Party in power than we were or would be under the GOP. To be honest, I am not so sure anymore.
Your actions last week, have given me cause to think It might actaully be better to fight honest enemies, who I know are going to try to stab me in the front, than have to worry about a dishonest friend who I never know when they are going to stab me the back.
This, Mr. President is why, I no longer trust you.
Sincerely
David
San Francisco, CA
More...
"This is why"
Here is my response:
-------------------------------------------
From: *******@aol.com
To: info@barackobama.com
Date:Tue, Jun 16, 2009 10:25 am
Mr President,
I read the email you sent me entitled "This is why". I am not responding to your email's subject. On the issue of health care reform you and I largely agree. You have even met with my boss, George Halvorson, to discuss that issue on a number of occasions.
I am writng to tell you that I cannot donate any more money to you, nor can I give any money to the Democratic party.
This is why...
You have said loudly and clearly that, even though I was born here, I am not an equal citizen of the United States. You have said loudly and clearly that my relationship with my partner, is no different that an incestuous relationship between an Uncle and his niece.
In the brief your administration filed last week in full throated defense of DOMA; you made it clear that you were lying when as a candidate you said you felt the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) was abhorrent. You have also made it clear that all your statements about LGBT equality were nothing more than campaign rhetoric to enlist my financial support.
Mr. President, if you truly think that in the space of less than a week, you can call me unworthy of equal protection under the law then, turn around and ask me for money? You are either compeltely out of touch with reality, or the smarmiest poltical opportunist since Karl Rove.
Not much hope there Mr. President, but a lot of audacity, I'll give you that.
So no, Mr. President, I will not "Donate Now!", or ever again. Nor will any of my family or friends "Donate Now", until we hear from you, an equally full throated apology for the hateful, bigoted and discriminatory things your Adminstration has said about me, about my family and about millions of Americans just like me.
Doctor Howard Dean, last night on MSNBC was very careful to emphasize how much better the LGBT community is with the Democratic Party in power than we were or would be under the GOP. To be honest, I am not so sure anymore.
Your actions last week, have given me cause to think It might actaully be better to fight honest enemies, who I know are going to try to stab me in the front, than have to worry about a dishonest friend who I never know when they are going to stab me the back.
This, Mr. President is why, I no longer trust you.
Sincerely
David
San Francisco, CA
41
I'm getting more and more pissed off at the people who want to cite stupid legal excuses for Obama... I don't give a crap about what he can legally do or not do because of the letter of the law -- this isn't about "I'm going to throw a hissy fit if I don't get what I want RIGHT NOW" this is being thrown under the bus for some political capital.
If the man had any integrity on this issue he could offer a statement, an opinion, or just kind of mention that while his hands are currently tied, this is how he feels about the subject. Allowing that brief to be his only word on the subject indicates that it is only thought on the subject, which makes him a liar.
And we do have to stand up and stop taking this crap from the Dems -- we need to turn our parades to protests, we need to stop giving them money and our votes. We need to stop paying taxes to a country where we have no representation and a lack of equal rights.
Don't stop talking about this, Dan... you are right on top of the most important and blatant example of the realities of this adminstration.
If the man had any integrity on this issue he could offer a statement, an opinion, or just kind of mention that while his hands are currently tied, this is how he feels about the subject. Allowing that brief to be his only word on the subject indicates that it is only thought on the subject, which makes him a liar.
And we do have to stand up and stop taking this crap from the Dems -- we need to turn our parades to protests, we need to stop giving them money and our votes. We need to stop paying taxes to a country where we have no representation and a lack of equal rights.
Don't stop talking about this, Dan... you are right on top of the most important and blatant example of the realities of this adminstration.
43
i was all for laying low before the election(s) when it came to these incendiary gay-rights issues, but now is the time to press this stuff. from all angles. "don't ask don't tell" is just stupid, and even the american public largely agrees on this now. maybe obama is just taking his time...i like to give him the benefit of the doubt, as he does seem to be a very astute strategist. but let's not take any pressure off him, or congress.
44
You'd be better off with a public civil disobedience program where you were out and demanded your rights to marry.
At the local school for your kids, in the PTSA as a married couple, at the courthouse having 50 people show up every day demanding politely their marriage certificates, and so on.
But ... you're too scared.
Do something. But don't just talk - that won't change it.
At the local school for your kids, in the PTSA as a married couple, at the courthouse having 50 people show up every day demanding politely their marriage certificates, and so on.
But ... you're too scared.
Do something. But don't just talk - that won't change it.
45
@41: While Obama hasn't yet made a statement (though I wouldn't be surprised if he did, given the escalation we're seeing), he did send out a Justice Department spokesperson to reaffirm his commitment to repealing DOMA.
46
@38
Yes, after years of fighting for my civil rights, I pretty much feel like anyone who does not support my right to protect my family, fight for my country, and enjoy equal protection under the law is a giant douchebag, an idiot, a moron, an ignorant asshole, a soulless vapid participant in institutional discrimination, and whatever other insult I can think of. Just yesterday, a family was denied the "family rate" at an idaho waterpark because the family had "two moms" and you must "be a man and woman with children" in order to be recognized as a family in the state of Idaho. Shit like this happens all day every day all over the nation. It does make me want to scream 'Off with his head!" from my fucking rooftop. What's sad is that you do not.
If the passion, anger, and desperation involved in the gay civil rights struggle confuses or offends you, then you either have not been on the receiving end of hate crimes and/or discrimination or you are a coward who is content to let the status quo continue. Either way, do everyone a favor and go back to reading the drudge report.
Yes, after years of fighting for my civil rights, I pretty much feel like anyone who does not support my right to protect my family, fight for my country, and enjoy equal protection under the law is a giant douchebag, an idiot, a moron, an ignorant asshole, a soulless vapid participant in institutional discrimination, and whatever other insult I can think of. Just yesterday, a family was denied the "family rate" at an idaho waterpark because the family had "two moms" and you must "be a man and woman with children" in order to be recognized as a family in the state of Idaho. Shit like this happens all day every day all over the nation. It does make me want to scream 'Off with his head!" from my fucking rooftop. What's sad is that you do not.
If the passion, anger, and desperation involved in the gay civil rights struggle confuses or offends you, then you either have not been on the receiving end of hate crimes and/or discrimination or you are a coward who is content to let the status quo continue. Either way, do everyone a favor and go back to reading the drudge report.
47
I agree with everyone about keeping pressure on, and sit-ins and marches are nice, but I'd like to remind people that good, old-fashioned water-on-stone methods are what really get politicians attention.
Call your representatives. Call their local office and their DC office. Send emails and letters. Be firm, but polite and be coherent: being screechy or overly self-righteous may make you feel good, but it is the surest way of turning people off to your message.
The more people who take the time to actually call or write a non-form letter or email, the more our cause will be noted.
It won't bring about change by itself, of course, but in combination with marches, sit-ins, etc, it can be very effective.
Take the time to do the boring thing. It really is worth it.
Call your representatives. Call their local office and their DC office. Send emails and letters. Be firm, but polite and be coherent: being screechy or overly self-righteous may make you feel good, but it is the surest way of turning people off to your message.
The more people who take the time to actually call or write a non-form letter or email, the more our cause will be noted.
It won't bring about change by itself, of course, but in combination with marches, sit-ins, etc, it can be very effective.
Take the time to do the boring thing. It really is worth it.
48
@28 I wouldn't say his message has been consistent. I would say his position has been consistent, though--that the way to fix DOMA is legislative, not judicial. This whole rage-gasm is evidence of a clumsy error in p.r./messaging, but not evidence of a change in his basic strategy/tactic/position for winning the DOMA battle. He should have made sure the DOJ's citation of precedent case law wouldn't be misinterpreted as making a moral equation--it should have been purged of the more inflammatory language. And clearly, the administration should have done a better job explaining to GLBT folks in advance of the brief why this suit isn't the right way to overturn DOMA, and why the DOJ is seeking its dismissal.
@37 Obama's position on DADT has always been that it needs to be resolved legislatively. So the person we need to be going after to take action is Harry Reid. If Obama ends DADT by executive order it could be easily reinstituted by executive order by a future Republican president. You might not agree with that strategy, but it's the same strategy as he had before the election. It is smart to pressure him to follow through on that promise, but it's just wrong to say his position has changed.
@41, you say "If the man had any integrity on this issue he could offer a statement, an opinion, or just kind of mention that while his hands are currently tied, this is how he feels about the subject." He did just that right here:
http://www.advocate.com/exclusive_detail…
You might find the open-ended deadlines frustrating; You might be angry about the lack of progress; that would be a good reason to put some pressure on Reid & Pelosi to take action right away, not a reason to say that Obama's position has changed.
More...
@37 Obama's position on DADT has always been that it needs to be resolved legislatively. So the person we need to be going after to take action is Harry Reid. If Obama ends DADT by executive order it could be easily reinstituted by executive order by a future Republican president. You might not agree with that strategy, but it's the same strategy as he had before the election. It is smart to pressure him to follow through on that promise, but it's just wrong to say his position has changed.
@41, you say "If the man had any integrity on this issue he could offer a statement, an opinion, or just kind of mention that while his hands are currently tied, this is how he feels about the subject." He did just that right here:
http://www.advocate.com/exclusive_detail…
You might find the open-ended deadlines frustrating; You might be angry about the lack of progress; that would be a good reason to put some pressure on Reid & Pelosi to take action right away, not a reason to say that Obama's position has changed.
50
We've been ragging on the Right for 30 years to give us equality; now it's time to start bitch slapping the Left to wake them up and stop taking the queer community for granted and to get them to make some real changes in this country instead of endlessly trying to win popularity contests and passing weakass, watered down legislation.
It's time to march.
It's time to march.
51
Marching won't do it.
You have to be willing to show up - every day - with 50 or more gay married couples insisting on their rights - and with 50 or more gay engaged couples insisting on their rights.
Marches won't do it. They may energize you, but it's the ACTION that changes things. The insistence and persistance that changes things.
You have to be willing to show up - every day - with 50 or more gay married couples insisting on their rights - and with 50 or more gay engaged couples insisting on their rights.
Marches won't do it. They may energize you, but it's the ACTION that changes things. The insistence and persistance that changes things.
52
1a. David Letterman says that at a Yankee game Palin's daughter "got knocked up by Alex Rodriguez".
1b. Sarah Palin and her fanbase accuse Letterman of "advocating child rape."
2a. Obama defends DOMA using instances of legal precedent which involve incest.
2b. Dan Savage writes that he is "comparing gay marriage to incest and child rape". The implication is that the government thinks gay marriage is as bad as child rape.
Both Palin and Savage are being disingenuous as others have said. Interestingly both times child rape is brought up to smear the other party.
1b. Sarah Palin and her fanbase accuse Letterman of "advocating child rape."
2a. Obama defends DOMA using instances of legal precedent which involve incest.
2b. Dan Savage writes that he is "comparing gay marriage to incest and child rape". The implication is that the government thinks gay marriage is as bad as child rape.
Both Palin and Savage are being disingenuous as others have said. Interestingly both times child rape is brought up to smear the other party.
54
Don't write a check -- write one to the CIty of Seattle to repay the debt that the Pride organization or watever the fuck it s called owes us Seattle taxpayers.
55
Hate to say it folks but now you know how the religious fundies and hard core antiabortion foes feel. For nearly 40 years they have opened their checkbooks to the Republicans and they still haven't gotten rid of abortion and the fundies know they are losing the war against gays as younger people do not see it as an issue. The bigots have done better than we have but there are a lot more of them. We're stuck because we have no place else to go politically. They're in exactly the same position with the Republican party. Obama knows he doesn't have the support from the military for getting rid of DADT or from the general public to get rid of DOMA. He isn't even going to be able to pull off the kind of reform health care really needs because the folks on the health care gravy train own the right people in Congress. If he had won with 70% of the popular vote rather than 53%, and had elected on his coattails the kind of majority Lyndon Johnson had in 1965, his hands would not be so tied and he could claim a mandate as Johnson did. But the fact is only about half of the Democrats are at least neutral on gay issues. Moderate and conservative Dems do not support us at all. I would guess it will take another 30 to 70 years in most parts of the country to get to the point where antigay bigotry is seen as wrong as racial bigotry is today. And that's only if the number of people who identify with various "religious" sects continues to decline.
56
Heartfelt agreement. I am offended so many responses needed to be so profane. I stopped saying "Fuck" Somewhere around my late 20s. There are many avenues to fight this. I like the protest/picket line. Blogging and e-mailing representatives is wonderful............I would speak respectfully.
Why, allow them anymore ammunition.
Why, allow them anymore ammunition.
57
49
Are you sure?
Cause it sounded to me a lot like gay zippers zipping shut after raping their younger sisters.
Are you sure?
Cause it sounded to me a lot like gay zippers zipping shut after raping their younger sisters.
58
The only mistake made here is a technical one - apparently marriage is a get out of jail free card for pervy men who marry little girls (in some states the age of marriage with parental consent is in the early, early teens). Were it not for that exemption, underage marriage would certainly constitute child rape.
59
#55, that's exactly why the law needs to change NOW. The law ALWAYS changes before the people do. If the law didn't change, the people would have no reason to adjust to it and would go on being hateful. It takes 30-70 years *from the point of legal equality* before the most backwards parts of the country come around. Some parts of the country still haven't even accepted that we have a Civil Rights Act. You think they're going to adjust to LGBT equality without the law telling them they have to?
60
Yes, Shira, I agree with you. The law needs to change now. The trouble is he hasn't got the votes now. Unfortunately you have to have the votes to change any law no matter how stupid it is. Johnson had far more of a mandate than Obama has and he still had a terrible time getting Civil Rights passed. And while he did get that law through, it cost the Democratic party the South and the stream of Republican administrations we've seen since have been the result. And we all know how progressive those Republican admins have been.
But the basic point is it's about votes and having enough of them. He doesn't and he knows it. A lot of old bigots and fogeys are going to have to pass on before there are enough moderates in Congress to change these laws.
But the basic point is it's about votes and having enough of them. He doesn't and he knows it. A lot of old bigots and fogeys are going to have to pass on before there are enough moderates in Congress to change these laws.
61
What do you think blacks and jews would do if they were confronted with the bullshit we are?
LET'S TAKE A FUCKING PAGE FROM THEIR PLAYBOOKS.
(and I hate sports analogies)
LET'S TAKE A FUCKING PAGE FROM THEIR PLAYBOOKS.
(and I hate sports analogies)
62
Those of you who want to keep defending Obama, go ahead. Keep waiting for equality. Meanwhile, stop standing in the way of the rest of us. Loving v. Virginia was in 1967. I am sure the state of Virginia at that time had similar cases it trotted out to show how interracial marriage was immoral or that it should be left up to the states so places like Virginia could keep themselves pure. Fuck Obama and his gay hating agenda. He appointed Tim Kaine head of the DNC. Do you know Kaine wants a FEDERAL amendment to the US CONSTITUTION banning gay marriage? Do you know Kaine is against abortion choice? Do you know he is in favor of the death penalty? And do you know that the head of the Republican Party Michael Steele disagrees with Kaine on every one of those positions? I am not a Republican by a long way. What I am saying is that Obama is not a Democrat who intends to deliver on our rights.
64
Ok so we're really goning to tear down someone that is from our community and calls attention to the fact that this administration has on more than five occasions shot us down in addressing any of our concerns??
Going even beyond that as we have control of the house and senate and can get our concerns addressed and possibly voted on in our favor should we push these issues?? Yet, our leaders and reps are not lifting fingers to call these issues to vote only telling us they helped sponser a bill or wrote something up within committees...Do you guys know what the term "brush off" is, yes even our Gay officals might not be so gay about us calling them to task and asking them to bring these bills and issues to the floor for a vote.
Stop kidding yourselves into thinking that these fights and issues take care of themselves...They don't and others cannot always take care of them for us...Don't give bullshit excuses that there are more important things because all things conect back to us and these rights that we have yet to obtain even on a federal level, regardless of State to State. We are not protected under Federal law for anything, even Civil Rights Statutes, we have a president that said we all need to be at that table called America....Well I say it's high time that we started DEMANDING some food!
Stop Being Cunty with each other, don't think that straight people like you more than any one of us, or you know people are for us in office, If we dont have people from our community forcing these issues upon those who were voted in they get ZERO attention, you should be praising those who stand for us and ask those of us to make statements such as pulling out of fundraising for a party that has yet to really do anything for us.
Another misconception is that it is just all politics and we have to play the game...yadda yadda yadda...Fuck the game...while your wanting us to play the game there are those of us within the community that are losing rights of children, or being shot or beaten to death and nothing being done about it because were not protected, losing jobs because of homophobia...your delusional if you think that a hand full of officials in a heterosexual ruled arena can win without us putting fires under ALL of their feet on these issues INCLUDING Mr Howard Dean and Barrack Obama!
It isn't that far out of context what was said, and anything you think it wasn't multiply that by about 90% for the other side that sees it that way. If you want to stay silent and not cause waves fine don't but DO NOT belittle and berate those of us that are fighting for OUR RIGHTS just because your to lazy to, or want to make deals and get little to nothing for them. Your "oh so clever comments" do not do anything but give them water to put out our flame.
I pay taxes, I obey laws and I'm a natural born American Citizen who is Gay! I am fighting for those rights for us that others take for granted on a daily..no hourly basis. I advise you to forget about others taking care of you and I, and start taking care of things yourself! We are never going to get there if were not together, it takes all of us to make this happen. Stop thinking you know better than anyone else and start asking what is it that is going on that your missing....These guys got there with OUR help, now is the time that they start paying us back! As Always, Burn Bright, Fight Smart, Burn Long and Stay Strong!
More...
Going even beyond that as we have control of the house and senate and can get our concerns addressed and possibly voted on in our favor should we push these issues?? Yet, our leaders and reps are not lifting fingers to call these issues to vote only telling us they helped sponser a bill or wrote something up within committees...Do you guys know what the term "brush off" is, yes even our Gay officals might not be so gay about us calling them to task and asking them to bring these bills and issues to the floor for a vote.
Stop kidding yourselves into thinking that these fights and issues take care of themselves...They don't and others cannot always take care of them for us...Don't give bullshit excuses that there are more important things because all things conect back to us and these rights that we have yet to obtain even on a federal level, regardless of State to State. We are not protected under Federal law for anything, even Civil Rights Statutes, we have a president that said we all need to be at that table called America....Well I say it's high time that we started DEMANDING some food!
Stop Being Cunty with each other, don't think that straight people like you more than any one of us, or you know people are for us in office, If we dont have people from our community forcing these issues upon those who were voted in they get ZERO attention, you should be praising those who stand for us and ask those of us to make statements such as pulling out of fundraising for a party that has yet to really do anything for us.
Another misconception is that it is just all politics and we have to play the game...yadda yadda yadda...Fuck the game...while your wanting us to play the game there are those of us within the community that are losing rights of children, or being shot or beaten to death and nothing being done about it because were not protected, losing jobs because of homophobia...your delusional if you think that a hand full of officials in a heterosexual ruled arena can win without us putting fires under ALL of their feet on these issues INCLUDING Mr Howard Dean and Barrack Obama!
It isn't that far out of context what was said, and anything you think it wasn't multiply that by about 90% for the other side that sees it that way. If you want to stay silent and not cause waves fine don't but DO NOT belittle and berate those of us that are fighting for OUR RIGHTS just because your to lazy to, or want to make deals and get little to nothing for them. Your "oh so clever comments" do not do anything but give them water to put out our flame.
I pay taxes, I obey laws and I'm a natural born American Citizen who is Gay! I am fighting for those rights for us that others take for granted on a daily..no hourly basis. I advise you to forget about others taking care of you and I, and start taking care of things yourself! We are never going to get there if were not together, it takes all of us to make this happen. Stop thinking you know better than anyone else and start asking what is it that is going on that your missing....These guys got there with OUR help, now is the time that they start paying us back! As Always, Burn Bright, Fight Smart, Burn Long and Stay Strong!
65
Ok so we're really goning to tear down someone that is from our community and calls attention to the fact that this administration has on more than five occasions shot us down in addressing any of our concerns??
Going even beyond that as we have control of the house and senate and can get our concerns addressed and possibly voted on in our favor should we push these issues?? Yet, our leaders and reps are not lifting fingers to call these issues to vote only telling us they helped sponser a bill or wrote something up within committees...Do you guys know what the term "brush off" is, yes even our Gay officals might not be so gay about us calling them to task and asking them to bring these bills and issues to the floor for a vote.
Stop kidding yourselves into thinking that these fights and issues take care of themselves...They don't and others cannot always take care of them for us...Don't give bullshit excuses that there are more important things because all things conect back to us and these rights that we have yet to obtain even on a federal level, regardless of State to State. We are not protected under Federal law for anything, even Civil Rights Statutes, we have a president that said we all need to be at that table called America....Well I say it's high time that we started DEMANDING some food!
Stop Being Cunty with each other, don't think that straight people like you more than any one of us, or you know people are for us in office, If we dont have people from our community forcing these issues upon those who were voted in they get ZERO attention, you should be praising those who stand for us and ask those of us to make statements such as pulling out of fundraising for a party that has yet to really do anything for us.
Another misconception is that it is just all politics and we have to play the game...yadda yadda yadda...Fuck the game...while your wanting us to play the game there are those of us within the community that are losing rights of children, or being shot or beaten to death and nothing being done about it because were not protected, losing jobs because of homophobia...your delusional if you think that a hand full of officials in a heterosexual ruled arena can win without us putting fires under ALL of their feet on these issues INCLUDING Mr Howard Dean and Barrack Obama!
It isn't that far out of context what was said, and anything you think it wasn't multiply that by about 90% for the other side that sees it that way. If you want to stay silent and not cause waves fine don't but DO NOT belittle and berate those of us that are fighting for OUR RIGHTS just because your to lazy to, or want to make deals and get little to nothing for them. Your "oh so clever comments" do not do anything but give them water to put out our flame.
I pay taxes, I obey laws and I'm a natural born American Citizen who is Gay! I am fighting for those rights for us that others take for granted on a daily..no hourly basis. I advise you to forget about others taking care of you and I, and start taking care of things yourself! We are never going to get there if were not together, it takes all of us to make this happen. Stop thinking you know better than anyone else and start asking what is it that is going on that your missing....These guys got there with OUR help, now is the time that they start paying us back! As Always, Burn Bright, Fight Smart, Burn Long and Stay Strong!
More...
Going even beyond that as we have control of the house and senate and can get our concerns addressed and possibly voted on in our favor should we push these issues?? Yet, our leaders and reps are not lifting fingers to call these issues to vote only telling us they helped sponser a bill or wrote something up within committees...Do you guys know what the term "brush off" is, yes even our Gay officals might not be so gay about us calling them to task and asking them to bring these bills and issues to the floor for a vote.
Stop kidding yourselves into thinking that these fights and issues take care of themselves...They don't and others cannot always take care of them for us...Don't give bullshit excuses that there are more important things because all things conect back to us and these rights that we have yet to obtain even on a federal level, regardless of State to State. We are not protected under Federal law for anything, even Civil Rights Statutes, we have a president that said we all need to be at that table called America....Well I say it's high time that we started DEMANDING some food!
Stop Being Cunty with each other, don't think that straight people like you more than any one of us, or you know people are for us in office, If we dont have people from our community forcing these issues upon those who were voted in they get ZERO attention, you should be praising those who stand for us and ask those of us to make statements such as pulling out of fundraising for a party that has yet to really do anything for us.
Another misconception is that it is just all politics and we have to play the game...yadda yadda yadda...Fuck the game...while your wanting us to play the game there are those of us within the community that are losing rights of children, or being shot or beaten to death and nothing being done about it because were not protected, losing jobs because of homophobia...your delusional if you think that a hand full of officials in a heterosexual ruled arena can win without us putting fires under ALL of their feet on these issues INCLUDING Mr Howard Dean and Barrack Obama!
It isn't that far out of context what was said, and anything you think it wasn't multiply that by about 90% for the other side that sees it that way. If you want to stay silent and not cause waves fine don't but DO NOT belittle and berate those of us that are fighting for OUR RIGHTS just because your to lazy to, or want to make deals and get little to nothing for them. Your "oh so clever comments" do not do anything but give them water to put out our flame.
I pay taxes, I obey laws and I'm a natural born American Citizen who is Gay! I am fighting for those rights for us that others take for granted on a daily..no hourly basis. I advise you to forget about others taking care of you and I, and start taking care of things yourself! We are never going to get there if were not together, it takes all of us to make this happen. Stop thinking you know better than anyone else and start asking what is it that is going on that your missing....These guys got there with OUR help, now is the time that they start paying us back! As Always, Burn Bright, Fight Smart, Burn Long and Stay Strong!
66
@64 and @65 "Stop being cunty with each other." Well, you lost me with that hate speech.
Obama can't work miracles. I supported him, support, and continue to. Though that's just words as I never backed it up w/any $$. No spare $$ to do so.
I'm gay. I think yr a bunch of whiners. Yes, keep pushing. It's the thing to do. But it's not like he's some local official. He's the president and it's a lot harder to deliver than you could ever imagine.
Even if he fails I'd rather be on his side than yours.
Obama can't work miracles. I supported him, support, and continue to. Though that's just words as I never backed it up w/any $$. No spare $$ to do so.
I'm gay. I think yr a bunch of whiners. Yes, keep pushing. It's the thing to do. But it's not like he's some local official. He's the president and it's a lot harder to deliver than you could ever imagine.
Even if he fails I'd rather be on his side than yours.
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