Yes, I voted for Obama. I don’t agree with all of his views in terms of the bailouts, but I do agree with many other things he endorses. I am a social liberal and a fiscal conservative. I have many Republican friends who are also fiscal conservatives and social liberals. You can belong to either party and believe that way. In my case, there are some things where I have extremely conservative views and some of my views would be considered quite liberal. I am not one of those stupid one issue voters. I have lots of irons in the fire just like everyone else and I want to cast my vote on what makes sense to me based on many issues, not just one. I also understand how desperately America needs hope right now and obviously others agree with me based on the overwhelming turnout at the polls. Obama represented hope to millions of Americans who are afraid and in trouble. We are tired of the fear and the negativity and the politics of politics. We want to believe in something again. That hope he brings is just as important as are his views on the GM bailout. And please realize that many Republicans voted for him too. Democrats alone didn’t put him in office. Nor did African-Americans alone. Or Hispanics. Or people under 30. Or women. Or white men. There was a consensus of many groups of people who believed in him as a MAN and were able to get past the small disagreements they had with some of his politics.
Next, to write me and tell me that I am a hypocrite and a socialist because I voted for him is stupid. To write me and tell me that Obama is a socialist is also stupid. You are too ignorant to be writing anyone if you believe that. Put the computer down folks and turn off Sean Hannity for a minute and think! I recently listened to a speech by Ronald Reagan. You can Google it and find it just like I did. It was the speech that Sarah Palin pulled an excerpt from trying to talk about how America was losing its freedoms. The speech was a strong one talking about how socialism was about to take over America and our freedoms were at stake and that something had to be done to stop this horrific new program that was about to ruin America. The speech was putting down Medicare. Yep, Medicare was our first step into socialism. So you ignorant dipsticks that write me and tell me that Obama and I are socialists, tell your parents and grandparents who are using Medicare to pay for their medical treatments that they are socialists and should turn down the help because Medicare is a socialist program. After all, Ronald Reagan said so! Seriously folks, get a freaking clue before you say something stupid. Read a book. Do some research. Watch a variety of news coverage. Watch some FOX and some MSNBC and some CNN. Watch them all so you actually get some balance because they all have a bias of some sort. Listen to someone other than Rush and O’Reilly. Know your history before you open your mouth and prove what an uninformed dumbass you really are.
Also, for of you who have written me saying that Obama is a Muslin, please, never contact me again. Don’t post on my blog and don’t contact me in any fashion. You may be too stupid to live on this planet, so please just keep your stupid opinions away from me. A church in Wichita, Kansas this week put on it’s marquee “America, you have elected a Muslim as President. That is a sin against God.” In an interview, the preacher said, “It’s not whether he is or isn’t a Muslim, it’s that he isn’t a Christian.” My Bible says no man knows another man’s heart. And that man should steer away from the whole judgment thing and leave that to God. Guess this idiot didn’t get the same Bible I did. This ignorant, uninformed so-called “minister” feels it his duty to proclaim to the world that Obama is a Muslim. No, he isn’t. Period. And what if he was? Why is this important? Did you see Colin Powell talk about this subject? If you didn’t, google it and listen to him talk about the American soldiers buried in Arlington with a crescent on their tombstones. (By the way, Abraham Lincoln was an atheist. As were Madison, Jefferson, Taft and Adams. Would they be elected today? Not a chance.)
Then you have the church in North Carolina whose marquee says, “Obama – Osama : Could they be brothers?” I am ashamed and so should you be. This is hateful, sad, and should make every American cringe. Be sickened too by the busload of elementary kids in Idaho who chanted “Assassinate Obama.” All of this hate-mongering MUST STOP.
By the way, every church that says one thing about ANY political figure or promotes ANY political agenda should be taxed. One of the core founding principles on which our country was founded was the SEPARATION of church and state. So separate or be taxed. Taxing churches who spout politics from the pulpit would raise a lot of money so I am totally for it. Churches should preach what the Bible, the Koran and every other religious book teaches: love your fellow man. And sadly, I am not seeing much love come out of some churches or their ministers or their congregations. And they wonder why church attendance is down and giving is off? Spread a little love – teach what Jesus REALLY said (love one another) and see if you don’t see an increase!
And for all of you who have piously told me that you are never going to spend your money on my books again. Thanks. I’ll be fine. But let me ask you: If my advice held value for you in the past in terms of handling your money, running your life or your business, why would that change? Did my advice suddenly go from good advice to bad advice because I believe in stem cell research, healthcare reform and other social programs? I am still a gun-toting, fiscal conservative who is anti-bailout. You can be both. No one candidate or political party will make anyone happy in every circumstance, that is, if you have any kind of a working brain at all. Be smart enough, informed enough, and open enough to having views that cross political lines. Be able to agree on some issues and disagree on others and vote for a total package. I didn’t drink the Kool-Aid folks, I voted.
This was an election that was held in a Democracy. We had record voter registration and turn out. That should be encouraging to every American. People actually CARED!! And Obama won. It’s over. If he sucks as President, then I will be the first to vote against him in four years. I will lead the crusade to elect someone else, even a Republican if their views are in alignment with mine. In the meantime, chill people. He was elected fair and square, unlike our last president. Give him a chance. Because if he does turn things around, all of you ignorant, redneck hate-mongers will be the first in line to take advantage of the SOCIALIZED medicine you will need because you don’t have any insurance because you didn’t set aside enough money to pay for it – and the SOCIALIZED handouts you think our new MUSLIM president is going to force on us, you will be there with your hand out to get them. You will also probably be right there to take a job to rebuild our infrastructure based on an economic stimulus program you will call a redistribution of wealth.
By the way, I am in the category of people who will end up paying MORE taxes. I am fine with that. I’m glad to do my part and then some. Most of my rich buddies feel the same way.
To sum up in case I haven’t been clear.
I voted for Obama. I’m a Democrat. If you think my advice is now bad and don’t want to hear it, then please go elsewhere. Don’t write me. Don’t threaten me. Don’t tell me you aren’t going to buy my books, somehow I will survive without your purchase.
The election is over. Like it or not, agree with him or me or not. You have a new President. I put up with George Bush for 8 years and you can put up with Obama for at least 4 years. After all, he can’t be any worse than what we have had. And Republicans and Democrats both believe that: 74% disapproval rating.
Lastly, before you spout off to me or to anyone else, become better informed. Be smart enough to know WHY you believe what you believe. Read. Listen. Do some research. Broaden your views. Think before you speak. Please.
Thanks! And thanks for voting regardless of who you voted for!
WOW! And I thought you were a republican! One of the reason I never really really got into you. Well I’ll tell you what, now I will buy a book of yours!
Good Job Larry. You made the right choice!
By the way, I already put a lot of money in your pocket. I worked on a project that you worked on back in August. I put 500 people in a room to hear you speak. What the hell, I made a lot of money on that one too 🙂
Attaboy, Larry. It’s just too freakin’ bad that all the smart people seem to be streaming out of Oklahoma. Come back soon!
Best to you and Rose Mary.
George
Larry –
You are right on. Most people are so short sighted that it turns my stomach. Whether or not I voted for Obama, he is now MY President. I believe in the United States of America and the wisdom written in our Constitution. Thank you for your honest post. I am sorry for the people who have posted negative comments because they are the ones that will suffer from being narrow minded.
I will still buy your stuff, love your information and wait for your next words of wisdom. Thank you! Marsha
You declare that “Separation of Church and State is a principle our country was founded upon” and then demand that conservatives become informed? …Now that’s funny. I think the principle is freedom from state sponsored religion, but what do I know, I listen to Rush and watch Fox News.
I will take your advice, though, since you think I am such a dumbass. I wont read, post, or buy anthing else from you. …And I realize that you don’t care.
Oh yeah, there is also this little thing called – uh what is it – oh it’s in the constitution I think (man, I should have listened better in History class) – yeah, yeah the First Ammedment. Does that still apply to Christians?
Bye bye, Larry
Chris Wood
Fiscal and Social Conservative…And proud of it!!!
Oh, Larry, I am giving up my worship of Zeus to worship you. All you have said, I too have said…not publicly, but with the people who are members of the choir. You are right about people not understanding the terms they toss around…and the hypocrisy label belongs to Alaska….distribution of the wealth with no state tax, not tax on goods, and the little bonus that they got of over $3200 per person…even the last baby of Sarah got it!!!Socialism…yes!!! Socialism is keeping this old broad alive!!! Shirley
Right on Larry! Your rant pretty much sums up they way I feel. I’m also a social liberal and a fiscal conservative. I don’t really care about anyone else’s personal moral choices, as long as they’re not hurting me. What two consenting people do with each other in private is their business, not mine. Two men getting married have absolutely no effect on my marriage whatsoever. How could it? If a woman wants to choose what to do with her own body, that’s her decision, not mine. Why should I care? I care about public moral issues like poverty, homelessness, pollution, and corporate greed. I don’t understand why people have to focus on one issue and then call themselves a “liberal” or a “conservative.” I’m a handgun owner who lives debt-free, is opposed to the government bailouts of the car companies, admires FDR and the New Deal, and supports gay marriage and abortion rights. What is my label supposed to be?
Larry,
I appreciate your candor. Apparently you and I are together on some issues and on others we aren’t. Personally I voted McCain (although it was “the evil of two lessers” IMHO). But I’m also proud to see our first black president, and I agree that regardless of the many issues I disagree with him on, his mere presence seem to have a soothing effect on the nation, which his good.
Having said that, I have only one little bone to pick with your well spoken rant above. If I may, you said…
“By the way, every church that says one thing about ANY political figure or promotes ANY political agenda should be taxed. One of the core founding principles on which our country was founded was the SEPARATION of church and state. So separate or be taxed.”
If you research the seperation of church and state as it was originally intended (clearly we share the opinion that researching these kinds of things before digging in your heels is advised)…
…if you research this historically, I think you might be surprised to find that the way this is interpreted today is a complete bastardization of what it really meant.
This was put into place to protect the people from the gov’t having the power to put an official national church or religion into place…like the church of England, for example…or countless examples found in other nations, like in China right now.
It was to keep the gov’t out of the church’s business, not to keep the church’s from sharing opinions that speak to state policy or politics.
Research it…you’ll see. It’s not meant to keep the church away from political expression, but to keep the gov’t from INTERFERING with a church’s expression.
And when we live in a day and age where any given issue can be a “political” one, where would you stop in limiting what the church can/can’t endorse/decry?
If a church feels a particular social issue is wrong (like abortion for example) how can you deny them the ability to stand vocally against those who endorse these issues? Or how is it fair to tax them as a penalty for expressing too much free speech?
Clearly I don’t agree with you on this one. I respect the motive behind your statement, but I’m also certain it comes from a misunderstanding of how the seperation between church and state was intended compared to what it is today.
Food for thought.
At any rate, thanks for a great read, and for being really who you are instead of who someone else might want you to be.
My best,
…jp moses
“Shut Up, Stop Whining & Get A Life.” – Larry Winget
Works for me,
James
Amen.
Great post! One small correction though, Lincoln, Jefferson, Madison and Adams were all either professed Diests (a very popular philosophical movement during the 18th and 19th centuries). Also in this category were Washington, Paine and Franklin. Basically, they rejected religion, but not god. Taft was more than likely an agnostic rather than an athiest.
The one that always gets me is the whole argument that the USA is a Christian Nation. Anyone that believes this is just drinking the kool-aid.
Here’s a link that proves otherwise (www.earlyamerica.com/review/summer97/secular.html)…
Thanks again, Larry!
Here, here!
Love your stuff, Larry. And this post is another reason why I do. Absolutely awesome post. And perfectly in line with my own thoughts, too… and I’m a Canadian!
Thanks, Larry. As always.
Excellent post Larry. You’ve summed up everything I’ve been thinking and wanting to say myself.
Thanks to all of you for responding, I appreciate the feedback. A couple of comments:
Chris – I’m not demanding that “conservatives” be informed. Instead, I am begging that EVERYONE be informed. Trust me, I know just as many uninformed dumbass liberals. No political party has the market cornered on that one! So please understand that I am not anti-conservative – and I anti-stupid. And the First Amendment does indeed apply to Christians – but not in a tax-free environment. When a church bellies up to the tax bar with the rest of us, they can say whatever they want!
Jeremy, Thanks for the clarification – but I did find direct quotes from Lincoln and two others saying, “I am an atheist.” No biggy tho! Both of us make valid points and it still supports the idea that none of it should matter from a political standpoint.
JP Moses – I think churches SHOULD take a stand against moral issues – that is their business. I appreciate the disagreement and the respect you showed me and the compliment for being who I really am. That is as high a compliment one can receive. Thanks
Stealthy – Your label would be the very same as mine because I agree with every word you wrote. Thanks
Ross – a lot of people thought I was a Republican. I do appear on Fox News a lot and have very conservative economic views but I am indeed liberal/libertarian in most of my views.
To the rest of you – thanks! And I hope this blog continues to bring in some great comments!
Larry
Let me just chime in with everybody else who said “Thank you.” Hot damn it’s nice to hear somebody speak honestly and INTELLIGENTLY without sugar-coating anything for anybody. You say what you think and, in this case, you happen to be right. Keep calling it as you see it, Larry.
When I look at both political parties I see a lot of fear on the right of what an Obama Presidency will mean. Higher Taxes, if you think he only going to hit the top 2% you’re dreaming. The top 10% of wage earners pay 70% of all the taxes, is that not enough?? Business who hire people will be forced to lay people off, higher taxes will drive more companies out of the US. High capital gains taxes will hurt business investment and the over 100 million people with 401k IRA or pensions. People on the right fear the appointment of Liberal Judges who will legislate from the bench, a weakening of our military while we are at War. Destruction of our health care system. Cap and trade energy taxes which will significantly increase utility bills and further hurt Business. Most of their fears are based on common sense and logic.
When I look at the left I see mostly hate, a true hatred of George Bush, Sara Palin, and all things that are Republican. 90% per of the democratic senators voted for the Iraq War, yet three months in they started to their rancorous rant noWMDs. How can you vote for a war, claim that Sadam Hussein is a threat to world peace and supports terrorist, send our troops into harms way and then go against the mission 3 months in. Never in US history has their been such a complete back stabbing of our troops and president so early into a War all to score political points and to get back into power. Comparing our soldiers to Nazis by Senator Dick Durbin was atrocious. More Americans have died a violent death in the city of Chicago in the last 6 months than in Iraq. Obama far left policies to which he has aligned himself to date have decimated many of urban areas throughout the US.
What if you were given the job of hiring the president of the United States. Your were handed two resumes that had the top cut off, no party affiliation and no names. You 1st looked at their experience. No Question there. You look at the record for Bipartisanship no question there. You then match their voting record, previous statements, experience and accomplishments against their statements of change. Who would you hire the proven entity or the blank slate that claims he will fulfill everybody’s dream.
Frank-don’t forget that when they voted for the war they were voting with deliberate misinformation, perhaps if they had been told the truth things would be very different now. There has been no back stabbing from the people. Unlike the Vietnam Era when people did take out their frustration of an unpopular war on the soldiers, this time there has has been unqualified support for the men and women serving. What people are offended at are the fact that they are serving, dying- not for our country and way of life but because of the lies told to and by their self-serving government leaders. We appreciate that they are doing what they do, but what we want is for them not to be there in the first place.
Sorry Frank R, I have to disagree with you about our health care system. It clearly needs totally redone. It is currently atrocious. There are a large number of Americans without any health coverage at all. Those who qualify for what the government currently has available usually leads to seriously inadequate medical treatment that just cannot be tolerated anymore. But maybe you have the best available coverage money can buy, which would skew your point of view. Please do not assume that every American can afford what you can – but they should expect quality medical treatment, regardless.
Hah. Never understood the divisions in American politics.
But you make a very good point Mr Winget. I think in the end its which candidate and party is the most pragmatic to solve the pressing issues and problems. I like Mccain. I think he’s a good man and not extreme or too partisan. I like Obama too.
I was okay with either then Mccain picked Gov Palin and she just seemed so divisive. But hey what do I know? Just a foreigner…
Still a fan of yours Mr Winget 🙂 Look forward to your new book to come here. You’re definitely the real ‘pitbull’. Wink* wink*
Larry,
Just so you know — and so others know, too — I’m a Bible-believing Christian… who agrees with you.
What I mean is, I take the Bible seriously. In it, I believe God says what He means (and means what he says).
And I’m ashamed of those who claim to follow Christ and yet insist on spreading ignorance, hatred, and dissent. Those people do a disservice to the gospel. That’s not what Jesus instructed us to do, as you so eloquently pointed out.
These are not simple matters. They don’t yield to simple answers. And while I don’t agree with everything you say, I agree more with you than I do with people who foment hatred by putting incendiary declarations of ignorance on church signs.
Thanks for your honesty, integrity, and willingness to speak your mind plainly.
You may not be a “stupid one issue voter” but you are definitely a stupid voter.
Larry–
Wow—all I can say is THANK YOU!!! As an informed American, businessman, Democrat, and a Christian, I may not always agree with absolutely everything that you say, but I will most certainly defend and uphold your right to say it. And, this time you were dead on target!! I WILL be buying more of your books—and I will be passing them out to friends again as I have done in the past. Again, great post Larry!!! Thanks for keeping it real!!!
I have all your books and have seen you in person twice. Entertaining stuff. While I didn’t vote for Senator Obama, I am sure as heck going to support him. I’ll call him out when I don’t agree with him and applaud him when I do. But he is our President-Elect and we need to respect the process that got him there. A lot of Americans are mad and don’t know where to direct their anger; maybe they should read your books. “If your life sucks, it’s probably because you suck.!”
This post hits right between eyes for what I believe in about this country but couldn’t put in words like Larry did. I applaud his courage to say what he thinks with intelligence. We have a new leader now and if we are going to move forward as a country to build a better countruy we need to get cracking on helping this President out and the government. Make your voice heard. Do something! Pitch in! Don’t bitch and whine. The government is not going to fix our lives. We are if we take personal responsibility for it. I get sick of all these so called pundits and hate ignorant folks who try to tell us we what our lives are supposed to be like and what’s going to happen to us now. I’d be wary of any advice anyone gives me now in this marketplace. Except Larry, because he’s modeling what I want to honor in this time.
Larry,
Is respect you for saying what’s on your mind and not beating around the bush or being all touchy feely. I always respect that about a man.
Allow me to reciprocate that philosophy. But I will not refer to you as a dumb ass. haha.
Issue #1: socialsim and Medicaid. Yes, my grandparents and anyone else on medicaid should NOT be on it. You mentioned YOUR Bible. Open it much? Scripture teaches that the Church community is to take care of the needy. Family is to take care of family. My parents will be taken care of by me and my siblings when they are no longer independent just as they took care of us when we were children and dependent on them. “Fedzilla”, Daddy government is not to be taking care of me. Government exists to protect the people. End of story. God is our provider and the Church is His tool. James 1:27, “Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.” The church is to be about the business of ministering to those who are in need. This includes not only sharing the Gospel, but also providing for physical needs (food, clothing, shelter) as necessary and appropriate. The church is also to equip believers in Christ with the tools they need to overcome sin and remain free from the pollution of the world. This is done by the principles given in Scripture – Biblical teaching and Christian fellowship.
Issue #2: As for judging people and looking on their hearts. We know a man by his fruits. Luke 6:43-49 tells us this 43″No good tree bears bad fruit, nor does a bad tree bear good fruit. 44Each tree is recognized by its own fruit. People do not pick figs from thornbushes, or grapes from briers. 45The good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and the evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For out of the overflow of his heart his mouth speaks. 46Why do you call me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ and do not do what I say? 47I will show you what he is like who comes to me and hears my words and puts them into practice. 48He is like a man building a house, who dug down deep and laid the foundation on rock. When a flood came, the torrent struck that house but could not shake it, because it was well built. 49But the one who hears my words and does not put them into practice is like a man who built a house on the ground without a foundation. The moment the torrent struck that house, it collapsed and its destruction was complete.”
Christians are often accused of “judging” whenever they speak out against a sinful activity. However, that is not the meaning of the Scripture verses that state, “Do not judge.” There is a righteous kind of judgment we are supposed to exercise—with careful discernment (John 7:24). When Jesus told us not to judge (Matthew 7:1), He was telling us not to judge hypocritically. Matthew 7:2-5 declares, “For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you. Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? How can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye’ when all the time there is a plank in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye.” What Jesus was condemning here was hypocritical, self-righteous judgments of others.
In Matthew 7:2-5, Jesus warns against judging someone else for his sin when you yourself are sinning even worse. That is the kind of judging Jesus commanded us not to do. If a believer sees another believer sinning, it is his Christian duty to lovingly and respectfully confront the person with his sin (Matthew 18:15-17). This is not judging, but rather pointing out the truth in hope—and with the ultimate goal—of bringing repentance in the other person (James 5:20) and restoration to the fellowship. We are to speak the truth in love (Ephesians 4:15). We are to proclaim what God’s Word says about sin. 2 Timothy 4:2 instructs us, “Preach the Word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage — with great patience and careful instruction.” We are to “judge” sin, but always with the goal of presenting the solution for sin and its consequences—the Lord Jesus Christ (John 14:6).
Attaboy, Larry! I believe that more people need to do their own research and follow their own hearts instead of voting party-lines or following one-trick ponies. As a struggling entrepreneur, I hope Obama works out as well, but as you say, if he doesn’t, I’ll vote for someone else in 4 years. He can’t possibly do any worse than what we’ve had in place for the last 8 years, that’s impossible. So, i’m with you. Let’s all just wait and see what happens before jumping to condemn.
Larry,
Normally I don’t reply or respond to public comments and I think you had a perfect right to send this message. I didn’t realize all the stupid hateful people out there, I guess I’m naïve or just plain stupid myself.
I was a bit hurt by one comment about parents on Medicare are socialist, even though I know said this you were making a point. First, there’s a big difference between Medicare and Medicaid; second my parents for example worked very hard in this American system and themselves but into system, just so they can have programs like Medicare to use when they got older. Unfortunately, many people out there abuse the assistance programs especially Medicaid and the Welfare system and I think (like me) this is where many people were concern with Obama’s tax plan.
I’m a republican and yes, I voted for McCain, I’m not angry or worried. I too have hope, like many other conservatives that Obama will do well.
Right on Larry! I’ve read your books and common sense seems to be your thing. Perhaps in the next 4-8 years we can start living with a “reality-based” government as opposed to the neo-conservative fantasy land we’ve had the last eight!
I had a lot of respect for JM before this election. Picking Sarah Palin then going negative early and all the time killed that for me. Still a war hero, but definitely a guy who would do anything to get into office, consequences be damned!
Hi Larry,
Thank you for your post. I couldn’t agree with you more, we Americans need to be far better educated than we are about our own country for a start. It seems to me that those who object to Obama on the basis of race should take a minute to consider the damage that has been done to our country by the marginalization of people of color. Having a society where everyone feels invested and that their dreams can be attained can only help us build a stronger and more civil society. On the social issues, let’s live and let live. If someone’s private behavior isn’t hurting me then it is none of my business and I will keep my nose out of their business and thank them to do the same.
Let’s do each other the courtesy of believing that we all want the best for this country. We may differ on what we think that is, but let’s not question the patriotism of one another.
Maybe we should all turn off the TV and pick up a newspaper or a non-fiction book. Maybe we should make a point of talking with, and listening to, people who have opinions different from ours. Forget Fox, CNN, and MSNBC. Let’s try thinking for ourselves after informing ourselves.
Larry,
You have every right to vote for whoever who’d like, I served in the military to ensure that’s so.
However I have no clue how you can be a “….I am still a gun-toting, fiscal conservative who is anti-bailout.” and vote the way you did. I now question your judgement.
You know I use to enjoy the “Dixie Chicks” music as well but don’t buy any more of their music. I also avoid movies that star entertainers that use their position to push some liberal agenda that they are clueless about.
You have the right to vote anyway you want, but in the business that you’re in I’d highly recommend you keep it to yourself.
Larry, read carefully as I did your explanantion. I read a portion of why you voted as you did and I don’t have a problem with that. THAT’S YOUR RIGHT. At least you voted. Just so you know, I am Christian, a Black Man, and a Republican (though I hate labelling) . I stopped reading partly through becauise I got your message and I respect it, with some reservations. First, don’t jump on the Christian bashing, conservative is wrong bandwagon yourself. You can express your views as I can without demeaning OR categorizing all. I STILL respect what you offer without really caring what you believe but, honestly, I am sick of people putting me down for what I believe too. This could go on forever but suffice it to say; keep putting out good advice and I’ll keep listening. I’ll keep my political views and let you keep yours. Thx.
Larry,
Ignorance is dumb blind. If you get pissed off enough we would be happy to have you north of the 49th.
For those of you that have written to Larry and have pissed him off, that would be Canada.
Larry, I too am socially liberal and fiscally conservative. So was JFK. It’s a fine American tradition.
For those who can’t fathom the thought of a half-Black man in the White House, I say, “Start looking to your own family tree.” Reputable geneaologists will tell you this: if your family has been in this country since the 17th or 18th centuries, it is almost certain you have white, black and red ancestors. Some also claim that other American presidents, in particular Lincoln and Eisenhower, had African ancestry as well. Be proud of this, for this is the future of our country and of the world.
In a way, our past has become our present.
My spiritual master, Srila Prabhupada (the founder of the Hare Krishna movement in the West) said that the purpose of religion is to teach people how to love God. This purpose alone completely disqualifies churches from having a voice in politics, so I am in complete agreement with you – stay out of politics or be taxed.
I also feel that it’s our duty to vote for who we feel is the best person for the job. I voted for Bob Barr, who I felt represented America’s interests the best. That’s my choice, but since he didn’t win, now is the time to come together and support Obama. Like you said, if he screws up, we just get someone else. Who knows, the “Muslim” might surprise us.
Go Larry Go!… nail those dimwits!
In my life I’ve been admired or disliked because of my lack of religious conviction. I’m spiritual but can’t stand organized religion. More people have been killed in God’s name over the centuries than in all the wars combined and for some reason unknown to me, it continues in this day and age. Imagine what the UFO beings must think when they look at this PLANET as a society… I’ll bet they think we’re still in the dark ages… maybe they’re right…
On our new President… I’m absolutely dumbfounded that a guy who couldn’t pass a background check to be his own bodyguard can be elected President. Yet, as controversial to some and as hopeful to others as he appears, I’m with you Larry… he’s in and that’s that. Let’s give him the benefit of the doubt and see what he can produce. It can’t get much worse than things are today, right now.
I used to work with an old Black guy named General (given name, not a nickname). He had such a simple philosophy on how to judge a President’s time in office. He said if he had money in his pocket, the President was doing a good job. During the Clinton years, he had money to spare… with Bush, he was broke. I’m gonna call him on his birthday for the next four years to see how our new Leader is doing! Sometimes it’s the simple things that really matter.
You guys are fools! Dem & Rep are two sides to the same coin… unless Obama is the Anti-Christ as some think. Anyway, where is my bail out? I am a Real Estate Broker in So Cal. Isn’t the government going to bail me out?
And as far as what Jesus taught, he said “I am the way , the truth, and the life, NO MAN COMES TO THE FATHER EXCEPT BY ME”. So stop picking and choosing what you think the Creator of the universe has stated and read the book. It’s either Jesus or Hell! Either you believe everything he said or you believe nothing. According to Jesus…He is the only way to be saved.
“Spread a little love” – that is just quality…
I can’t believe there are people with so much time on their hands they can leave a comment of 100 words with about 50 bible citations.
I saw you at a otherwise boring business exhibition in England a few years back and your speech was an inspiration that changed my life.
Larry, you are the man.
Respect
Larry,
Love your style and although I agree with a lot of your rant you have to consider this.
I believe in voting for the party that lines up with my philosophy of what I want (and don’t want) from my government. I think we pay too much attention to minitue like the cost of wardrobes, the church a candidate may have attended and other bullsh_t that has nothing to do with the presidency or party affiliation.
Here’s an old article from the past on why party trumps candidate. This article is from Mike Rosen and is dated (from the Kerry-Bush race) but still applies to this year’s election and every election (especially congressional elections).
If you have a few minutes, give this a read…
For better or worse, we have a two-party system. And party trumps person. Either a Republican, George W. Bush, or a Democrat, John Kerry, is going to be elected president in November. No one else has a chance.
Not Ralph Nader, not the Libertarian candidate, nor the Communist, nor the Green. Minor party candidates are sometimes spoilers – like Nader costing Gore the presidency in 2000 – but they don’t win presidential elections. Ross Perot got 20 million popular votes in 1992, and exactly zero Electoral College votes.
In Europe’s multiparty, parliamentary democracies, governing coalitions are formed after an election. In our constitutional republic, the coalitions are formed first.
The Republican coalition includes, for the most part, middle- and upper-income taxpayers (but not leftist Hollywood millionaires and George Soros), individualists who prefer limited government, pro-market and pro-business forces, believers in American exceptionalism and a strong national defense, social-issues conservatives and supporters of traditional American values.
The Democratic coalition is an alliance of collectivists, labor unions (especially the teachers’ unions), government workers, academics, plaintiffs-lawyers, lower- and middle-income net tax-receivers, most minorities, feminists, gays, enviros, and activists for various anti-capitalist, anti-business, anti-military, anti-gun, one-world causes.
I say party trumps person because regardless of the individual occupying the White House, the coalition will be served.
A Democratic president, whether a liberal or a moderate (conservative Democrats, if any still exist, can’t survive the nominating process), can operate only within the political boundaries of his party and its coalition. The party that wins the presidency gets to staff all the discretionary positions in the executive and judicial branches of government. Members of its coalition are awarded vital policy-making government jobs, judgeships, ambassadorships and appointments to boards and commissions, as well as a host of plum jobs handed out to thosewho have political IOUs to cash in.
A vote for Bush is a vote for the Republican agenda and conservative players in key posts. A vote for Kerry is a vote for the influence of the National Education Association, the National Organization for Women, the American Civil Liberties Union and the likes of Al Sharpton and Michael Moore.
The legislative branch is no different. After the individual members of a new Congress have been seated, a figurative nose count is taken and the party with the most noses wins. That victory carries with it control of all committee and subcommittee chairmanships, the locus of legislative power.
Now, let’s say you’re a registered Republican voter who clearly prefers the Republican philosophy of governance. And you’re a good-natured, well-intentioned person who happens to like an individual Democrat, a Senate candidate, who’s somewhat conservative. You decide to cross party lines and vote for him.
As it turns out, he wins, beating a Republican and giving the Democrats a one-vote majority, 51-49, in the U.S. Senate.
Congratulations! You just got Ted Kennedy, Patrick Leahy, Dianne Feinstein and Hillary Clinton as key committee chairs, and a guarantee that your Republican legislative agenda will be stymied.
That’s the way the process works. Does this mean that in a two-party system like ours it comes down to choosing between the lesser of two evils? You bet it does. That’s not to say that either party is really “evil,” that’s just an expression.
If we had 280 million custom-tailored minor parties, everyone could find his perfect match.
But that’s not practical.
You can be a purist and cast your vote symbolically with a boutique party, or be a player and settle for the least imperfect of the Republican or Democrat alternatives.
Your vote, your choice.
Okay, so why do some of you continually tell people who are conservative to think for themselves??? Why the assumption that they do not? Do you relaize the amount of people who voted for Obama without knowing one single issue about him? Also, don’t those who voted for Obama and agree with his controversial ideas learn these ideas from other sources???
Let’s not assume that people who call Obama for what he is, a socialistic communist, are not up to date on the topic. There is much research and critical thinking applied. I for one, do not speak from feelings on these issues; I am not relativistic or pragmatic. I speak from Truth and fact. You disagree with what we have come to realize about Obama? Great. I respect your right to be wrong.
It seems as tho jumping to conclusions is the only exercise some people get all day long. Roll up your jump to conclusions mat and throw it away.
We all derive our ideas and worldviews from something we have read and studied and from people we listen to and talk to. Just because some one differs from you does not mean the research has not been done. It does not mean they have no brains and do not think for themsleves.
I would actually argue to the contrary! Conservatives appear to be the minority…(true conservatives and not simply Republicans because not all them are conservative. Many tend to be Republicrats, liberals in a traditionally conservative party). The media and hollywood praise Obama as if he is some savior for America. It should be a hint to us conservatives that there is a problem with our thinking and philosophy when liberal mainstream media and hollywood are on the same page as us.
I’ll part with this old Chinese Proverb and a quick word. “If 1,000 people say something stupid, it’s still stupid.” My thoughts exactly on the majority support for Obama and his socialistic ideals. Larry mentioned that people need to turn off Fox news and do more than just take in every word Hannity says. Sure. That is absolutely right! (I actually do not listen to Hannity or Fox news. They are somewhat liberal according to the biblical worldview.) Larry could not be more right. It also goes both ways. So, what makes you people think that YOU are thinking for YOURSELF when you agree with so many people in the mainstream media as well???
Again, roll up the jump to conclusions mat. Be rational rather than defensive. Use critical thinking rather than emotions.
Well said Larry, you’ve put into words what many in here Britain have struggled to articulate (especially about the church).
I believe that Obama is a good man and will bring greater hope and social cohesion into the world, not just to America.
For the first time in years, we’re able to look across the pond and think that “maybe some American politicians aren’t so stupid after all and maybe the voters are finally able to pick a decent president”.
I love you, Larry. If I wasn’t already a happily married woman (and you a happily married guy), I’d ask you out for a date.
Whether some people like it or not Obama is our President. Each president deserves to have the country’s support as long as they are doing what is right “for ALL the people” of this country. It is not right to have a leader who wants to just help their own personal interests whether it is specific lobbying groups or select groups of people. Their interests should be about EVERYONE “in order to form a more perfect union.” From the big businesses right on down to welfare recipients. I believe that what this country should strive for is to STOP ENABLING select groups with handouts. As we have seen recently, the US is enabling businesses that made bad decisions by bailing them out with large sums of money. They were not held accountable before, what makes anyone think they will be now. The message this sends is they were not responsible for their poor decisions. The US also, by just feeding out more money, enables welfare recipients to remain as such without improving themselves (ie: there should be mandatory programs to attend for personal development- Hey Larry, you could start this!!). This makes them unresponsible for their situation and poor decisions so they remain on welfare and add to the abuse of the system. I hope, hope, hope that as a country, with Obama as our President, and along with Congress that we can STOP ENABLING others and have them, and our country stand on its own two feet!!!! Good luck to Obama and God Bless America!!
Larry,
You did a “talk” for us about 3 years ago in Phoenix at Christmas and I had a chance to talk with you for a moment and there was no doubt you would have voted for Obama!
It shows how stupid & uninformed the majority of republicans have become. I have been a republican for 38 years and for the last 10 I have been ashamed to admit it. If you read, listen to the news “Besides FOX Republican News only” you would know that we already have socialized medicine with Medicare & Medicare. If ya ain’t for me… ya are against me mentality does not work! The stupidity and arrogance of the Christian Right and more “God tells me I am chosen”! Candidates the republicans chose in Sarah Palin and Vice President with Senator McCain with 1 foot away from a stroke shows immense arrogance by the republicans. I have always admired John McCain and to see what the republican party chose the campaign that he would run showed in his apologies given a several times in his campaign.
It does not amazes me that you did get the hate mail that you did. Just because you say things the way they are and you have no tolerance for stupidity and laziness the republicans’ thought you were of course one of them! How could you make them wrong? They let Bill and Hannity plus talk radio tell them what to think!
I completely agree with you on the dumb ass ignorant liberals’ that think they are smarter than anyone else because they use idiot compassion to explain why things are the way they are.
You just keep telling people how it is and I will keep buying your books!
By the way…. I voted for Obama too.
I’ll be brief and choppy although I’d relish being lengthy. John Adams was hardly an athiest. Jefferson no doubt was an atheist and somewhat of a libertine as well. Real jobs come by way of capital formation. There is an inverse relationship between taxes and capital formation. Ergo, the higher the captial gains taxes and the higher the corporate taxes the less monies will be invested in capital formation and the less real jobs will be produced (univeral laws of economics). Social liberalism: I am all for sex, who isn’t, it’s natural, it’s fun, but abortion is perhaps the most vile act of uncivilization, 96% of which is the result of utter irresponsibility and immaturity—something Larry is all about (complete irresponsibility)–correct.
I wish you were still in Tulsa. Your blog was well reasoned and very good. I agree basically with all you wrote. Keep it up. And it seems that there are enought enlightened people around who support your philosophy.
Your comments sounded much like mine on several occasions before the election. It truly amazed me that people that I thought were intelligent could send such hateful stuff. The majority of it was from my Republican friends. I am also fiscally conservative (no debt) and socially liberal, and both my husband and I feel that we have an obligation to pay higher taxes if we earn more. I would like to ask Rex exactly WHO would be paying his parents’ medical bills? And what about folks who have no family? C’mon…get real!! Anyway, I may be registered Republican, but I voted for Obama (which is a dangerous thing to do in the panhandle of Florida), and I agree with all you said. I also begged the people sending me hateful emails to stop!! It was truly demoralizing. I don’t understand the mentality, I guess. Thanks, though, always enjoy your comments!
Larry,
This is why I have been such a fan of yours for so many years. You are right on target with your blog. You’re the real deal vice those dumbasses sending you hate mail and making threats. I guess I just don’t understand people like that. I also voted for Obama — but I respect everyone no matter who they voted for. Everyone is entitled to their own opinion and it’s just sad that some folks are so insecure that they have the need to send hate mail and threaten folks. I suppose that makes them feel better about themselves……..look forward to more of your books/DVDs. I’m retired military and have shared several of your videos with my troops/family and friends over the years. I will most definitly continue to do so! God Bless You!
Well,
I agree with the spirit with which you wrote your article. I’ve never felt that GW was a good choice for president – but I liked him more than the alternative. Same with McCain. I have no faith in Obama and the sad part is – I had no faith in McCain either. Our politicians are mostly sleazeballs and the approval ratings are evidence that most Americans don’t know what the hell is going on.
My only criticism of your opinions is this: Obama deserved to win – but it was not a ‘fair’ election. Media bias and voter fraud were rampant. The ACORN thing is the tip of the iceberg regarding voter fraud and to see how many people were misinformed by the media regarding the candidates was amazing. Just look at the video “How Obama Was Elected” ( http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mm1KOBMg1Y8 ) and see the consistent way that people answered the questions without real knowledge. Their opinions were spoon fed to them by the media. That coupled with the lack of understanding regarding the political structure of our Nation is apalling.
But, America is resilient and I can do my part in making the recovery happen by working my ass off and being really good at what at what I do. (one of the good things I’ve learned from you). Regardless of who is in the White House – my job is to be the best that I can be at what I do and lead others into doing the same.
Best Regards,
JR
Larry,
You are so right. The right man won.Being from Alaska I can tell you first hand that Sarah Palin is a stupid, self centered idiot and if she was our next VP we would have been in big trouble. She listens to no one and does as she pleases, with no brain in her head. I too voted for Obama.
The American people sent a message loud and clear. We want change.
I think Obama will make it happen.
Like most others, I did not think you were a democrat. I hear what you are saying, there are a lot of things I don’t like about Obama but I have to look at the whole and not the parts. I think what made me think you were a republican is the vibe I seem to get from you sometimes that if you are not succeeding its your own damn fault. I obviously don’t disagree that much or else I would not be writing! I like your candor and your thinking process, even if I don’t agree with it.
Sorry you had to get sucked into the whole Political debate thing, what you “preach” is above that. Keep on keeping on.
Thank goodness for Larry Winget! I too am sick of the lies that are told and the hate people give much energy too is wasted effort. Be productive, be the USA! {the U stands for UNITED, btw) Tell the world the USA is back!
Now I know why I did not care for Ronald Reagan. This kind of puts my thoughts in a better light. This admin cannot leave fast enough for me.
“I also understand how desperately America needs hope right now and obviously
others agree with me based on the overwhelming turnout at the polls.”
As my Daddy use to say, “Desperation is what brings fools together.”
Of course, Larry, everyone responds to ‘hope”… hey, you fell for it.
I was in the advertising business for 25 years and we didn’t
advertise products, we advertised hope…. the same way you
sell your personal development advice – on hope and the promise
of something better.
It was only a matter of time before a major political machine used this trick… and made it stick.
It was obvious (to me) that Obama wasn’t selling anything of substance,
so we’ll just have to see how long the warm and fuzzy feeling lasts.
Let’s all ‘hope’ he does a fine job.
And I still have confidence in America; even though I’ve been short the stock market all year.
Hi Larry,
What a great rant !!! – I agree with most of what you said and you totally made my day! But, I’m surprised that you were surprised when you got the negative emails after being on Fox — from my experience, the people that watch Fox would certainly go at you.
I am a Democrat and of course voted for Obama and finally after 8 years, have a feeling of hope again. Honestly, I was afraid that he wouldn’t make it because of the “Bradley Affect” and all the rumors and lies that were spread against him in the campaign.. I saw Colin Powell on Stephanopoulus and his comments were so moving and hey, isn’t it refreshing to hear some one speak intelligently, even without a script?? (too bad some people said his endorsement of Obama was all about RACE? –wasn’t it Rush who said that? We need to find better word for him than dumb ass..)
What I just can’t understand is why people that voted for McCain weren’t ready for a new light! Why they can’t see the new possibilities, after the last 8 years of lies and incompetence!! Do they think things have been going OK in this country? Do they live under a rock somewhere? Don’t they realize that America’s standing in the world has been terribly damaged? Don’t they realize that this country is less safe now because there are a lot more people that hate us? Dont’ they realize that Bush’s policies dragged this country down and most of McCain’s are the same? Don’t they realize that a lot of Americans are in real trouble? Do they really think that Palin, in a million years, has the brains to be President? Talk about a dumb ass! (I just love that word!) She is an embarrassment!!
I mean come on, do these people need a (foreclosed) house to fall on them????
I have always respected John McCain and sure, he probably would be better than Bush – but we really need to raise the bar now!! He really blew it after the economy took a dive – and he really blew it by picking Palin – What the hell was he thinking? And his healthcare plan is worthless! (Geez I could go on) Even though I liked him (not so much now), I personally do not agree with him on most issues. I wouldn’t have voted for him anyway, but I have a long time friend, who lives in Arizona and has always voted Republican in the past, but voted for Barrack Obama in this election.
I read a right wing blog a few weeks ago and they were discussing health care – and one of the guys stated “If you can’t afford it, You don’t deserve it”. So I guess he thinks that if you can’t afford medical insurance, then you deserve to just drop dead, if you can’t get treatment for cancer etc… I guess this guy thinks he has more right to live than someone else… (hmmm – he must be really in good with God and the other people are not)
Last week one of my dumb ass neighbors told me that everyone who voted for Obama is going to purgatory…. I guess maybe he thinks “his God” is in charge? Ya think?
Take Care Larry
Larry,
Personally, I really do not care who is elected. As long as I continue to pay my taxes (even though they are high), and produce results, my future will be bright. Think about it… how many times over the past 40 years has there been a political party change in Washington and those who continue to deliver results continue to do better in life. Here is the secret to life… The person who is voted as the president does not make you successful; your actions make you successful.
On a side note… I am a director at a fortune 500 company and have given your book, “Its Called Work for a Reason” to many. Maybe after book 20 I could get a repeat customer discount. Never hurts to ask.
Chris
hi Larry;
I have “re-learned” a lot about working, business and life this year from your book which I bought in Manila (It’s Called Work for a Reason). Then I signed up for your weekly MP3 emails which I keep on file and share with friends. Amazing stuff!
I was fired in Singapore by my Houston boss, shortly after he arrived and gave me his Rush Limbaugh opinion dump (I was over quota). I hated that job and the firm owes me cash, but I am happier since I live more by what you coach (or re-coach what I was raised on)….and started 2 companies here in Asia. I am also blogging now, and started an online business network for Thailand.
All this because instead of falling apart overseas, I have been inspired by you to succeed. That is the main thing really. Of course to keep what we have, we have to give it away…so I coach others starting businesses or hunting work, help a few churches in Singapore and Manila, etc. I always refer them to your book and MP3 chats.
About the election and church/state issues in this blog post. Awesome comments! I did not receive a full ballot (did not include the propositions) this year in Singapore (I vote in California now). I read the Mormons spent $4.5 to pass Prop 8 banning Gay marriage. Imagine how many people that money could help feed, clothe, shelter. When my step-father converted us all to Mormonism when I was 10 years old (I am 50 now) it did not keep him from abusing my mother, or the children or keep him from gambling or being adulterous. And the Mormons did nothing to help that and we belonged to them “spiritually”! They cannot take care of their own really. My personal religious experience is personal as is everyone else’s is as well, whether it is golden or just plain BS as I experienced. I happen to believe politically the same as you. I am from Virginia, where the Democrats tend to socially progressive and fiscally conservative (2 year state budget helps I think).
I know you brand yourself as the pit bull, but I think you are bring a lot of joy to your customers like me.
Regards,
Rick
Hi,
I’m an Australian guy living in a luxury apartment on the harbor in Hong Kong because I followed Larry’s advice.
Starting out life as a bricklayers laborer/construction worker I now own 4 companies and have semi retired at the age of 50.
I read with interest all this garbage about politics and religion with Obama and feel quite sad that Americans get stuck arguing over this bullshit.
He is no better or worse than any other president you have had. he is just a guy trying to have a go just like the rest of you.
My suggestion is that, unless you can do a better job, then just shut up and stop whining.
Americans…………Geeeezus……….you guys are one step worse than diorheaa.
Alan in Hong Kong
As a Canadian living in Australia for the past 19 years I can assure you that George Bush was the worst thing that ever happened internationally for the USA’s reputation. Next is the fundamentally intolerant uneducated religious followed up closely by fundamentalist political bullies that do not understand the concept of democracy.
I watch your television programs and hear the nationalistic rhetoric claiming you are the best country on the planet to live in. Yet from the outside looking in, may I enlighten you as to how you are perceived by the rest of the planet?
You have the most resources to make you well but have the highest incidence of lifestyle diseases. Your people are sicker and fatter than any country in the world with highly preventable conditions.
You depend more on drugs to cure your ails than, invest in the only thing that works, prevention and you expect the pharmaceutical controlled, financially motivated medical system to cure you, if you could only put more money into it.
You appear to worship money over health and seem to not truly understand the things that make countries great are how they treat those who are the least powerful, think of your poor, your animals agri-farmed for human consumption?
You have a lot of churches and talk about God but few people who truly practice non-judgment. From someone who once studied to become a missionary, who told people that I was not there to judge them I know how judgmental I was and how closely, judgment of others, is linked with personal unhappiness. How many of you are really happy?
Your country has much work to do to mend its poor opinion with the rest of the world, to heal the immense sadness, arrogance and anger you energetically radiate on the planet amidst a lot of flag waving.
I have visited your country many times and seen the beauty of the land and the people, particularly those who can get past the nationalistic myopic beliefs and judgments to really get that the thing that most matters is not money, not politics, it’s all about love folks. Based on the comments on this blog, show some now because you need it more than ever. Not the syrupy googoo love but the strong love that comes from caring about others, the kind that can admit when they are wrong or have lacked wisdom.
What matters most now is not what party your president belongs to, not what he says but what he does, when he does something that works for the whole, support him and when he does something that is clearly for the benefit of a few, like your last president, hold him accountable. One of the greatest injustices of your history is not making George Bush and those that hold his puppet strings accountable for the unforgivable acts committed in the last 8 years. Do your research, start with watching the documentary Out Foxed, then From Freedom to Fascism then the Loose Change series. Ask questions.
Larry really espouses no nonsense uncommon sense that your country really needs now, if most had listened to it, there certainly wouldn’t be a global financial crisis. From what I’ve observed he is big on getting real and being honest with ourselves, something we can all benefit from, no matter what country we live in.
I’m an Australian. Larry has a no bullshit style, I like that.
We as individuals have to be responsible for our actions. You get out of live what you put into it.
As far as politics go, Obama is a chance for a new start in the US. All Americans should cut all the crap and get behind the next president and make the US the great country it was. The world needs leadership something that I believe is short supply.
Racial and religious tolerance needs to be high on our agenda if homo-sapien is to survive. The way where going we might not be here in another 1000 years, This planet is about people and we need to look after what we’ve got until such times as we have got an alternatives.
Ian Cleland in Sydney
Whether or not you like someone’s political views, their social views or whatever. The advice that anyone gives is always skewed by your views. So rejecting someones advice just because they are Dem. or Rep. is simply poor judgment. Most people don’t follow someone’s advice blindly some people actually use common-sense.
BTW anyone who thinks that FOX is fair & balanced hasn’t listened very well. Yes they bring another opinion then berate them as to why they don’t agree with the news anchor. As a line in “The Matrix” goes: “Is that air you are breathing”
Some people need to get a life.
Dan
I will give Obama the same type of respect that Democrats have largely given Bush 43.
Larry,
I did see you on the Fox news interview and honest was surprised about some of the positions you took during the interview and who you were voting for. I just didn’t see the connection, but that’s also you right and your position. I had never written you on this topic before, but the post above raised some issues with me. First, I’m an independent. Grew up in a democrat family, but during my college years after doing my own research, studies, and ACTUALLY reading the entire constitution I stopped being an affiliated democrat and registered independent. This was during the Carter years (so you can guess my age). Pres Carter is a nice guy, but was lacking in many way.
Honestly, I am probably more leaning toward libertarian than any of the typical mainstream parties.
Ok, enough of the background. There are a few points I wanted to make:
Jeremy #10’s post was on point and accurate regarding many of the people you named as being agnostics versus atheists. There is a big difference, agnostics believe in god but not organized religion per se. Atheists don’t believe in god at all.
JP Moses was also current regarding the historical purpose of the separation of church and state. The primary purpose was to ensure that the gov’t can not impose or support a specific religion on the general population. The historical position was the Church of England and the pressures placed on the Quakers, and other religions. There was never any meaning in this position to prohibit religions from arguing political opposition or taking stands in support of their beliefs. But I don’t believe a political official should go into a church and preach a political position from the pulpit.
Like I said I didn’t understand why you voted for Obama, but again that was your choice. I voted for McCain, and not because I agree with all of his position, frankly I don’t. But, I disagreed with Obama’s much more. And frankly, Yes I do believe a lot of his positions are socialist in nature and I would be glad to debate any one of those positions in a frank but respective manner. For example, both Obama and Biden talked about paying “your fair share of taxes”, ‘it’s patriotic to pay taxes”, and “we’ve always paid income taxes”. Well, we didn’t always pay taxes. In most of the country’s history we did not pay income taxes. Federal revenues were derived from tariffs, and other taxes. Income tax was not established until 1916, with the exception of 4 yrs during the civil war to pay for the war. In fact, the founding fathers were against paying taxes on wages (income derived from one’s labor), which is why (if you look into the history of the federal income tax) the wording was changed from wage to income. We can get into a whole debate about taxes, and best and what’s not. But the word “fair” in the in eye of the beholder, and what’s viewed as fair to one may not be viewed as fair to another.
I will tell you what I’m really struggling with in your post, as well as other statements made by other democrats claiming to be social liberal (or “progressives”) and fiscal conservatives. Why, because I consider myself a fiscal conservative and a social liberal but I don’t agree with a lot of the positions self-proclaimed progressives take. For example, I’m not sure what you mean by being a social liberal? I agree with legalization of marijuana, and the legalization of prostitution but with caveats. We don’t pay for the marijuana, of any addiction that may follow, and in terms of prostitution that they have consistent doctors visits to ensure no STDs occur. These and other topics, don’t have any financial responsibility of the federal gov’t and don’t impacting anyone who is not participating in those acts. Where I draw the line, is when we, the gov’t, is giving away money, and other benefits thru entitlement programs which are solely supported by taxing those who are productive in society. These problems are not being a fiscal conservative, and continues to place a higher and higher burden on those who are productive in society. These entitlement programs are killing us and the more programs that the so-called progressive democrats want to impose will only drag this county down more. And you may not like it, but yes they are socialist programs by nature.
I am sure that you are aware but others may not be. The independent, bi-partisan group “The Concord Coalition” has been going around the country with its’ fiscal wake up tour speaking about how these entitlement programs continue to grow and absorb more and more of the federal budget. Continually to increase taxes will not help. These entitlements need to be cut, but Obama and the rest of the “progressive” democrats want to continue to add more and more of these programs placing the burden on the part of society that produces. In the end, this does not work. It will collapse the society, and more and more decent jobs will leave the country.
Fundamentally, I don’t care about Obama’s race (he’s mixed), I don’t care about Obama’s religion (but I don’t buy he didn’t know Rev Wright’s position), and I don’t care he’s a democrat per se. I care about the positions, and the long term implication of those decisions.
Your vote is your right, we can disagree and we can debate about it honestly and openly, and even disagree. And, I don’t think it has any relation or impact on the advice in your books or your self-responsibility positions. The bottom line, Obama is now the president, well actually not until January 20th, but now it’s time for him to put his actions where his mouth is. So far, with his cabinet announcements to date, it appears to be politics as usual.
Larry, I saw and heard you speak while I was at Countrywide. You are fantastic. I’m a Republican and it doesn’t matter to me who you voted for. It’s more important that you are able to express your ideas in a fair manner……one that welcomes differences of opinions, etc. Even here, people have responded, “I thought you were a Republican, but now I will read your books,” shows lack of understanding that within all of us is a common thread……………..WE ARE AMERICANS!
Thank God for people like you Larry, and if you were gay and single, and I was single, I’d ask you for a date(I hope that doesn’t offend you). I agree with every point you made and also consider myself socially liberal and fiscally conservative. I really hope Obama does well. I did vote for him, but not without some reservations. My vote, admittedly, was largely reactionary regarding the loud-mouthed, phony christian faction of this country. To me, that religion is too often arrogance masquerading as humility. Like the one guy said above, “Desperation brings fools together”. This is how I view most organized religion. The fact that we are all going to die does produce feelings of desperation in me sometimes and probably most people, so we are all in the same boat as far as that goes. But, I don’t think the remedy is to subscribe to a bunch of dogma laden myths. “The kingdom of heaven is at hand”. The now is all we have. These zealots need to get some balls and grow up. Stop supporting all of these charlatan “preachers” while they tell us lies.
I would have considered McCain more seriously had he not picked Palin as his runningmate. That crazy woman belongs to and end times, death cult church in Wasilla that preaches that Alaska is going to be a refuge in the “last days”. I personally don’t want people running my country who believe this unproductive, self-defeating crap. And then she has the nerve to complain during one of her interviews that people mock faith. Just like a good “christian”, she refuses to take responsibility for the fact she makes a mockery of it on her own.
Thanks for allowing me to rant.
On this very page you describe yourself as ” Award Winning Speaker, Best Selling Author & TV Personality”. That appears to be what you have become and the tone of your comments reflect that. I heard you when you began as a speaker and there was a humble quality that is now missing. I don’t disagree with your specific views, but I think you should drop “TV Personality” from your persona.
Thanks for allowing me to post a comment.
Quite a ‘rant’ Larry! I am somewhat surprised that you allowed yourself to
get upset this easy. I could care less what your political views are or what party you belong to. I also don’t give a damn if you believe in God or not!
Your comments about Hannity, Rush, and O’Reilly show you have a clear disdain for these people since you made no mention of morons like Matthews,
Olberman and other liberal nitwits. As far as Obama winning the election straight up I guess you mean that Bush stole the election, (both times) by refering to the last president, or did you mean Clinton? I will agree that just about all of us have both liberal and conservative views and I also do not agree with these bailouts. You and many other’s are in for quite a surprise
when Mr. Obama takes office in 2009 and you will not like the surprise. Unlike you and other’s who are in favor of paying more taxes please be my guest and offer up your earnings to the new administration as I am in no way
in favor of giving a bunch of liars and crooks who claim to serve the people of this country another penny!
There are many white people who can’t seem to come to grips that a man of color could possibly be smarter than they. Well guess what white people. Obama is smarter than you. Make that MUCH smarter. Isn’t that something the American people should take kindly to. I mean, the job IS pretty important!
Obama was number one at Harvard etc. and so on. Bush’s classmates wondered how the heck he even got IN to Yale. Oh yeah…..George HW.
Larry You voted for a smart man, because you are one yourself. And I voted for him too.
I find it hard to understand how you support someone whose ideas are diametrically opposed to what you espouse. I may be wrong but all I have read you have written, and that is a lot as I have a bunch of your Win Publications, YOU are responsible for where you are and YOU are the only one who can get you out of where you are.
Uh I did not hear that from the Democrats. And to be fair not much from the Republicans either.
I really cant understand how email comments to you, which are not published, would result in the above rant with the then supporting/opposing comments that will do nothing but further polarize. I understand how you could really care less but then you make it so public and angry.
And this benefits who?????
While I cannot stand Mr Obama’s politics or liberals in general, I do pray to the God of my choice and urge everyone to do the same to give Obama the wisdom and guidance he will need. Also that the God of his choice will protect his family.
And also brother I pray for you too. While we can disagree on politics, I certainly agree on the important stuff.
I don’t understand here…why does it matter to people if you are Democrate or Republican? I have read 2 of your book (GREAT STUFF) and to me either way isn’t going to make me not read a 3rd 😉 PEOPLE get over it – you have a choice – if you didn’t vote shut up – if you voted for Obama GREAT, if you voted Mccain – well we got OBAMA – make the best of it. Nobody has the power to change it now! Next 4 year we support & stand behind Obama (btw I voted Mccain…) BUT if you really want your voice heard on things you don’t write Mr. Larry – Write or Call your Senator!!!!!
You can’t be a liberal and be a conservative you moron ! There is nothing democratic about a socialist like Obama and you say that your a capitalist what your really are is an elitist Fraud like the guy you voted for get your head out of your ass!!!!! You make me sick!!!!!
Larry,
I have read most of the replies on your site. We are so fortunate that we still have the right to voice our opinions. Even though I did not vote for Mr. Obama, I believe as you and others. Senator Obama is President elect, we need to give him a chance and hope for the best. I think we should take a better look at our Senate and Congress. A convicted felon can run for office and almost retain his seat in the Senate but a felon can not vote. We need to weed out the “Good Ole Boy Club” and get some younger fresh brains working for us.
I have read several of your books and am looking foward to your new book. Have you ever considered targeting the younger market? I know I sure could have used a kick in the pants 30 years ago.
Good Luck and Best Wishes.
Ron
Larry,
Even though I’m a republican and didn’t want Obama elected, you are absolutely right. Let’s get over it and respect the office of President of the US. We all can’t agree on everything an elected official does and doesn’t do. But, we live in the greatest country in the world, so be damn thankful for it.
I will continue to purchase your books and CD’s. You’ve been a great influence to me since I saw you speak at the AMD 2 years ago. Thank you.
Jack
Hey folks – think I’m not telling the truth about my emails? Check out the new blog posting above from “Formerfan.” This is exactly the kind of ignorance, hate and stupidity I am talking about. Plus, he clearly doesn’t understand that it should be “you’re” a contraction for you are and not “your” which implies ownership. So, not only is he stupid, ignorant and spreading hate, he is also illiterate and uneducated. I LOVE idiots don’t you? I’m so happy that he is a “former” fan.
Thanks to each of your for your comments. I appreciate any healthy, informed disagreement. I also appreciate it when people with different opinions can come together in unity, even though we disagree. That key principle will be the key to the healing of our country.
Thanks!
Larry
Larry, loved you before, love you more now! Exactly how I feel and you expressed it perfectly…as always! Thanks!
Wow – do you feel better having thrown this public temper tantrum?
I do not really care how you voted. Neither should anyone else.
Why you would tell anyone and open up this can of worms is beyond me.
Oh wait – maybe it isn’t beyond me – I forgot – you are interested in stirring up controversy since that is your business model.
You get to have one opinion and one vote – just like the rest of us. As it should be. I confess that I do worry about where all the support money came from that Obama had access to – and what strings were attached to it. But, I also truly hope Obama turns out to be a good president. If the work and intelligence ethics of the man is equal to the public persona he projects, we should do ok.
But the problem with being a fiscal conservative and social liberal like you say you are (and as I have said I am on occasion) – is paying for all those liberal social programs. Most of the screaming liberals I meet always figure someone else will do the paying. With an economy in trouble and a democratic congress and administration with lots of promises to keep – taxes may be a sight to see. You and I will pay even more than the outrageous sums we pay now (well, maybe you have a more creative tax accountant than I do). That part of the liberal democratic agenda gets old really fast. Especially as I get older.
By the way, our current president was legally and properly elected. If you don’t believe that, take your own good advice and do some research and learn our national election system and process. Maybe you decided you didn’t prefer him at some point (before, during or after those elections) – but he has served well, worked hard, and kept us safe. The despicable terrorist attack of 9/11 cast a shadow over everything and shaped all kinds of events during Bush’s administration. I read public commentary saying things about being excited because they can believe in our country again. Well, I’m happy to report I have never stopped believing in our country. And I still do. It’s not a perfect governing system – but it beats any of the alternatives in existence by far!
Larry,
Thank You for putting what I have been thinking and feeling into words! We as a people used to be able to ‘agree to disagree’ and move on. What ever happened to that?
Take Care,
Patricia
Larry,
Didn’t you mean, “you’re comments”? 🙂
Just a quick thought….
Like a lot of people, some things I’m conservative about, and some things I’m liberal about.
I have a lot of friends, coworkers and family who differ amazingly on political and religious issues, yet we still hang out together, still eat together, and wish each other well. As far as people I don’t know personally go…
-David Zucker, Bruce Willis, Jon Voight, and Frank Miller are all pretty much for the Iraq War (or, at least, were outspoken about it at the beginning). I disagree with their reasoning, but I still enjoy their work. Looking forward to seeing “The Spirit” this winter.
-Alec Baldwin and Chrissie Hynde are outspoken PETA members. While I don’t wear fur, I’m definitely not a member of PETA (mainly due their militancy). Still enjoy him on “30 Rock” and have been a fan of the Pretenders for years.
There was a poster above who said:
“You have the right to vote anyway you want, but in the business that you’re in I’d highly recommend you keep it to yourself.”
Not threatening at all, is it?
To the poster (and like-minded individuals): How little of you.
I do business with Republicans, Democrats, Libertarians, and Greens, Evangelicals, Catholics, Jews, Muslims, Buddhists, Hindus, and Atheists and White Sox fans.
And so can you.
I am a Democrat who did not vote for Obama, for various reasons. Usually, when something – or in this case, someone – sounds too good to be true, they tend to prove it soon enough. Nobody is perfect, except God, if you believe in that – which I do. I watched Mr. Obama’s actions critically – to see if they supported his words of hope through positive changes – or if he was just saying what most folks wanted to hear – which is not necessarily the truth.
Not all of his actions followed along with the words he spoke. For instance, he did back the infamous bailout more strongly than McCain who took a wait and see approach. Yet, Mr. Obama kept talking to those same taxpaying voters he expected to bailout a few companies for their bad decisions. His words said he heard the peoples’ complaints – but his actions said, Wall Street was more important and a higher priority. It was contradictions like this that determined my vote.
Hope is a good thing – just so long as it’s not false hope.
That’s great I guess. Its not my importance what your politics tend to be. In fact, I don’t really care much for most peoples politics, just my own. lol. Anyway, I come here for the advice and stuff, as long as the advice is good, I don’t see what politics has to do with it. I don’t care if you are a republican, democrat, independent, or libertarian, or whatever.
Larry
I did not vote, I only became an American citizen a week after the election. Took me to live half my life + 1 year in USA and the realization that I love this country more than I love the place I came from. Still I do not know i whether I would had voted or not, for sure I was not to cast a vote for Obama and McCain did not inspire me either. I disagree with your optimist views about Obama, but I rejoice in your comments about us, people that necessarily do not fit in any of the 2 parties (why only 2?).
I despised the Bush administration with their ineffective over spending, their disdain for public opinion, the lack of vision about energy and the financial crisis. A disinformed almot illiterate person like me saw it coming 5 years ago, how could the President not see? But I still do not like Obama, nor I like the fanatism about Obama, just visit Barnes and Noble and saw a table full of books in Obama. Remind me a little of the country I left behind. I hope I’m wrong and he will be a great president, if not, you can keep me out of your blog, since I will be fighting to get him out of the White House.
Larry, On January 19, 2009, BHO will be my President, too. Your tirade, however, was a little offensive. Just because someone doesn’t agree with your political views doesn’t mean they are stupid; lacking ordinary quickness and keenness of mind; dull. It means they don’t agree with you. Using your celebrity status like Tom Cruise or Rosy O’Donnell is unbecoming. If you are being verbally assaulted, as you say, I believe you have the right to defend yourself, but why even make the effort? Someone that takes you on at a less than intellectual level will not get it anyway. It’s very easy and popular to be a Democrat right now. Roll with it, take all the momentum you can from it. But, stupid? People don’t need someone to instill hope, if they are too confused or too slow to get with the program, they will need more than hope to get by in this arena. What about, “That’s why it’s called work”.
Hey Larry! I haven’t been around for a while… don’t laugh, but I was sort of afraid to come back after my angry rant about the bank bailout in early Oct.–I thought “Crap, I’ve gone too far, everyone probably hates me now!” Heh, I now return to find that you loved my rant. OK, I’m a moron.
Anyway I just wanted to say that words cannot describe how much I loved this post. Every last word of it. Bravo. And to the commenters who insist that we Democrats expect “everyone else to pay for our liberal social programs,” THINK AGAIN. As Democrats, we not only know that WE will have to pay for it, but we WELCOME doing it. We believe in personal sacrifice for the common good, and somehow you people twist that around to sound like it’s something BAD.
Unlike Larry, I am not wealthy. I live in New York City–on $38,000 a year. After rent, basic bills and stuff, I’m left with barely enough for luxuries like food and heat (indeed, I go without heat in the winter months). NY state and city taxes alone eat up over $200 a month of my meager paycheck. But you know what? I still make a point to distribute $100 every month to my favorite charities, answer Santa letters from children in need, and would be HAPPY to pay higher taxes in return for a healthcare system that covers everyone equally… yes, even the unemployed. This is who Democrats are. We feel a responsibility to our fellow human beings, even if it means our own lives are a little leaner as a result. I am personally a devoted disciple of Bobby Kennedy and believe there’s always someone less fortunate who needs and deserves my help, and that everyone has a duty to do something for others. And if you want to turn that around to appear shameful and dishonorable, go right ahead. I could not be less surprised.
I am not an “ignorant dipshit” and Obama is a socialist.
Larry,
I very much appreciate your straight forward no BS views. I too am a life long fiscal conservative. We differ in that I an a life long republican, and a conservative republican. I too am a supporter of Christian values. My bible tells me the same yours does you, to respect and love your fellow man. I didn’t vote for Obama, I don’t support the majority of his politics or even his vision for our nations future, but I will stand up and say I will support him as my President. Obama won the presidency in a democratic election which was a fair and hard fought election. We as American’s have a moral obligation to support our President whether his name is Obama, Bush, Reagan, and anyone else who holds this office. I call on all American’s whether they agree with Obama’s politics or not to support THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.
Unlike your other readers who disagree with your liberal or political views, I will continue to read your books. You provide sound advise on money and living within ones means, and your political views have no bearing on the way one should handle money. I won’t buy your books, as I never do, but I’ll continue to check them out of my public library along with a half dozen others each week.
Larry, please continue to make your views heard whatever the medium, people need to here the unabated truth about personal finances (including me).
Michelle – your response is the true definition of oxymoron.
“He was elected fair and square, unlike our last president.”
You were preaching and preaching against hate mongering through the first half of your post and then near the end do a 180 and threw out some hate mongering of your own. It makes it difficult to take your opinion seriously when you lambast the other side for attacks and then proceed to attack them yourself.
Marine – there is a HUGE difference between hate-mongering and stating fact. Fact: George Bush is the worst president in the history of the United States according to:
1. His 74% DISapproval rating which is the worst in history. and 2. 98% of Presidential historians claim his presidency to be a failure. I don’t make this stuff up Marine. I am quoting fact.
Thanks for your post.
Larry
Larry, I will still buy your books/tapes whatever because I’m interested in my self improvement and don’t really give a damn about your politics. I don’t agree with you, think your hypocritical (like most of us) and see things assbackwards (like most of us) but in the end your president is my president and neither one of us can afford for him to fail and should support him regardless. Only complaint I’d have with your diatribe is you CANNOT legitimize your candidates election and illegitimize the current presidents election by using the same standards. That’s just plain stupid. But that’s why you wrote the book, right? People are stupid and you can prove it, it’s just sometimes the proofs in the mirror. Take care my bald headed guru and I look forward to your cogent commentary in the future. All this said with a healthy respect for your accomplishments and viewpoint. Go Sooners!
This posting is by Tom Freeze and was deleted from my latest blog as it was specific to this posting:
Larry,
I was surprised to read your blog titled “Stupidity, Ignorance, Hate and Politics”
it seems you are pretty quick to judge Abraham Lincoln’s heart and say that he was an atheist. I looked on the internet and there are a lot of entries regarding this subject saying he was a Christian and others saying he wasn’t. So I am not sure how you are able to say that definitively he was an atheist. Especially after you defend Obama (and I am not saying he is a Muslim, I don’t think that) and that we should not judge his heart. You turn around and read where some people said Lincoln was an atheist but there also is a number who say he is a Christian. So how do you come up with your divine judgment that Lincoln was an atheist? By the way my bible says in 1 Corinthians 13:7 Love …, is ever ready to believe the best of every person,… (Amplified version).
I think you give a lot of good advice but, it is my opinion your are giving your personal bias regarding Abraham Lincoln I believe we should leave calling Lincoln to God. By the way I found the same pro and con Christian statements regarding Jefferson.
Respectfully,
Tom
My response: You are right in that I do not know Lincoln’s heart – no man knows another man’s heart. However, Lincoln did SAY many times that he was not a believer. One of the better known quotes regarding this was when he said, ” The Bible is not my book and Christianity is not my religion. I could never give assent to the long complicated statements of Christian Dogma.” Therefore, based on his words in this statement alone, I will not say he was an atheist but he certainly was not “Christian.” And in a related note, after his death, his own wife said that he certainly was not a Christian. The point of this entire blog was not to malign Lincoln, though in my opinion, calling him an atheist is not maligning him. The point was to remind Christians to spend more time loving the rest of us and less time spreading hate.
Larry
I did not vote for Obama, but I pray he does a good job.
Also, I love your books, but I cannot stand it when celebrities talk politics. In the voting booth, all we can hope for is that everyone knows what each candidate stands for and votes according.
One more thing…
You stated, “By the way, I am in the category of people who will end up paying MORE taxes. I am fine with that. I’m glad to do my part and then some. Most of my rich buddies feel the same way. ”
I am surprised by this statement. Why are you okay with paying higher taxes?
As far as Lincoln’s beliefs are concerned, no one will ever truly know.
He may not have been a Christian, BUT that does not make him an atheist (n. One who disbelieves or denies the existence of God.) or an agnostic (not committed to believing in or disbelieving in the existence of God.)
He could have believed in God but not within the confines of any certain religion. Keep in mind when quoting Mary Todd Lincoln, she was a woman who had mental issues and all of her children/husband died within a short time span. Lincoln also had to deal with the death of his children and the lives lost in the civil war.
I found this great article:
http://blogs.chicagotribune.com/news_columnists_ezorn/2008/04/did-abraham-lin.html
Hi Larry,
I ran across this old blog as I was ‘Googling’ your name to find out more about you. I purchased your book ‘No Time for Tact…365 Days of the Wit…” and plan to purchase more as gifts. The information and motivation are timeless! I must admit that I was curious as to your political affiliation. You don’t know how relieved I am to know you are a Democrat. I know you are ‘no holds barred’ when it comes to your motivation and advice and I was slightly afraid you might be an extremist/Republican or Tea-Bagger. I appreciate every word of this (old) blog. Thank you Thank you Thank you ~ you took the words right out of my mouth.
I’m not going to bash on you for voting for Obama. I don’t care why you voted for Obama. Lots of people who normally would not have voted for someone like Obama voted for Obama. Lots of people, even people like me (not “such as me”-I voted for McCain/Palin) who are conservative voted for Obama, because they felt he was more conservative than McCain.
I also take offense to the folks using “tea bagger” comments-the Tea Party is a movement, not a group. People belonging to the Tea Party are concerned about the direction of government and its overt usurping of powers and rights that were initially given by the Constitution to States and individuals. Most people blissfully ignore decisions such as Kelo V. New Haven until their home is taken without compensation via eminent domain abuse. The “Tea Party” is symbolic of the Tea Parties held in the colonial times prior to the Revolutionary War. The people in the movement used that to describe their desire to return the America envisioned by the Founders (they weren’t just “old white guys with slaves”, btw). I find it sad that people who proclaim themselves to be independent thinkers do not go see what the Tea Party is actually about before spewing off the terms people such as Olbermann and Maddow and Mahr are using to describe them.
for the record, just because you voted for Obama does not mean I will stop buying your books. I forgot to say that.
Jen, just because I voted for him once, doesn’t mean I will make that same mistake again. As for the Tea Party: there is a fine line between movement and group. A collection of people who believe, act or vote the same way would be considered a group. A belief system can spur a movement but the people are a group. And since there are many factions within the group, the term movement no longer defines them since one portion of the movement doesn’t believe what another portion does – there are groups within the movement. That can not be argued. The core belief system of the Tea Party when it began was “Taxed Enough Already.” I like that. I support that idea. However, many within the Tea Party don’t believe their own core message since they don’t support cutting medicare/medicaid/social security and many don’t believe in extending the Bush Tax Cuts for the “rich.” In other words, don’t touch MY entitlements, just touch the other guy’s. (Check the many polls that back that statement up.) The biggest problem and over-riding issue I have with the “movement” is that it sold out to the anti-abortionists and the religious right. If it had stuck with the core message and belief and mantra of no more taxes, then there would have been many moderates and Democrats join the “movement.” But the Tea Party didn’t stick with it and they became a fringe group with a moralistic baseball bat swinging it at the heads of “liberals” instead of a movement of people with an economic message to take back control of our nation’s finances.