CDZ Problems With The Modern GOP

[wjmacguffin]

Hi folks! I was hoping for an intelligent, civil discussion on what I see as some major problems with the Republican party in the modern age (say, Reagan through Trump). Yes, I think Democrats have problems. No side in US politics is without hypocrisy, fault, and the like. Maybe I'll do another thread about that, but for now, this one is focused on the GOP.

See, I grew up respecting Republicans even though I was a Democrat. But I'm struggling these days to find that respect again. IMO, here are those major problems.

1. Doctrinal Purity: I'm worried by the trend towards policing Republicans for being ideologically impure. The GOP used to be a big tent party, but these days, I see too many RINO accusations. It seems like any Republican who deviates from core principals like low taxes or pro-life can be considered a traitor to the cause. I think this is why the GOP has been unable to change and adapt, such as reaching out to Hispanics.

2. Rejection Of Research And Science: I get that facts can be slippery and that studies, stats, etc. can be skewed. But there seems to be a growing trend in the Republican Party to outright reject research and science. Global warming is not a question, yet many Republicans deny it. Evolution and the Big Bang are valid theories that work, but Republicans often reject both. I just don't get it, and I cannot see how the GOP can effectively lead by demonizing science.

3. Fiscal irresponsibility: Back when I was young, I held two idea: Democrats spend like crazy, and Republicans tighten budgets. But in recent years, I've seen the opposite. Republicans sometimes lower taxes, but they rarely decrease spending. In fact, the best changes to our national debt and deficits have come under Democratic presidents. These days, I fully expect Republicans to spend like crazy.

4. Valuing Winning Over Morality: Whether you agree with Trump's policies or not, one thing is factually accurate: Trump is not a good person. He's not evil, but he bragged about sexual assault and lies very often. Even his "straight talk" is suspect and bullying. Compare him to Reagan, and you'll see what I mean. But not only did he win the GOP nomination, Republicans continue to support him no matter what he does. It seems to me that The Republican Party values winning elections over being a good person.

Do you agree that these problems exist? As usual, respect will be returned. Due to this forum's rules, disrespect will simply be ignored.

 

[TNHarley]

Hi folks! I was hoping for an intelligent, civil discussion on what I see as some major problems with the Republican party in the modern age (say, Reagan through Trump). Yes, I think Democrats have problems. No side in US politics is without hypocrisy, fault, and the like. Maybe I'll do another thread about that, but for now, this one is focused on the GOP.

See, I grew up respecting Republicans even though I was a Democrat. But I'm struggling these days to find that respect again. IMO, here are those major problems.

1. Doctrinal Purity: I'm worried by the trend towards policing Republicans for being ideologically impure. The GOP used to be a big tent party, but these days, I see too many RINO accusations. It seems like any Republican who deviates from core principals like low taxes or pro-life can be considered a traitor to the cause. I think this is why the GOP has been unable to change and adapt, such as reaching out to Hispanics.

2. Rejection Of Research And Science: I get that facts can be slippery and that studies, stats, etc. can be skewed. But there seems to be a growing trend in the Republican Party to outright reject research and science. Global warming is not a question, yet many Republicans deny it. Evolution and the Big Bang are valid theories that work, but Republicans often reject both. I just don't get it, and I cannot see how the GOP can effectively lead by demonizing science.

3. Fiscal irresponsibility: Back when I was young, I held two idea: Democrats spend like crazy, and Republicans tighten budgets. But in recent years, I've seen the opposite. Republicans sometimes lower taxes, but they rarely decrease spending. In fact, the best changes to our national debt and deficits have come under Democratic presidents. These days, I fully expect Republicans to spend like crazy.

4. Valuing Winning Over Morality: Whether you agree with Trump's policies or not, one thing is factually accurate: Trump is not a good person. He's not evil, but he bragged about sexual assault and lies very often. Even his "straight talk" is suspect and bullying. Compare him to Reagan, and you'll see what I mean. But not only did he win the GOP nomination, Republicans continue to support him no matter what he does. It seems to me that The Republican Party values winning elections over being a good person.

Do you agree that these problems exist? As usual, respect will be returned. Due to this forum's rules, disrespect will simply be ignored.

The Republicans have dived into a sea of corporatism and globalism. I think that's their biggest problem.
AGW is the problem. Not natural earth evolution. Number 2 is just malarkey
Number 4 is a duopoly problem. Both sides are so partisan now it makes me sick to my stomach. Republicans deny like crazy and the dems have actually turned to violence and destruction. Its sad.

 

[Toddsterpatriot]

Hi folks! I was hoping for an intelligent, civil discussion on what I see as some major problems with the Republican party in the modern age (say, Reagan through Trump). Yes, I think Democrats have problems. No side in US politics is without hypocrisy, fault, and the like. Maybe I'll do another thread about that, but for now, this one is focused on the GOP.

See, I grew up respecting Republicans even though I was a Democrat. But I'm struggling these days to find that respect again. IMO, here are those major problems.

1. Doctrinal Purity: I'm worried by the trend towards policing Republicans for being ideologically impure. The GOP used to be a big tent party, but these days, I see too many RINO accusations. It seems like any Republican who deviates from core principals like low taxes or pro-life can be considered a traitor to the cause. I think this is why the GOP has been unable to change and adapt, such as reaching out to Hispanics.

2. Rejection Of Research And Science: I get that facts can be slippery and that studies, stats, etc. can be skewed. But there seems to be a growing trend in the Republican Party to outright reject research and science. Global warming is not a question, yet many Republicans deny it. Evolution and the Big Bang are valid theories that work, but Republicans often reject both. I just don't get it, and I cannot see how the GOP can effectively lead by demonizing science.

3. Fiscal irresponsibility: Back when I was young, I held two idea: Democrats spend like crazy, and Republicans tighten budgets. But in recent years, I've seen the opposite. Republicans sometimes lower taxes, but they rarely decrease spending. In fact, the best changes to our national debt and deficits have come under Democratic presidents. These days, I fully expect Republicans to spend like crazy.

4. Valuing Winning Over Morality: Whether you agree with Trump's policies or not, one thing is factually accurate: Trump is not a good person. He's not evil, but he bragged about sexual assault and lies very often. Even his "straight talk" is suspect and bullying. Compare him to Reagan, and you'll see what I mean. But not only did he win the GOP nomination, Republicans continue to support him no matter what he does. It seems to me that The Republican Party values winning elections over being a good person.

Do you agree that these problems exist? As usual, respect will be returned. Due to this forum's rules, disrespect will simply be ignored.

In fact, the best changes to our national debt and deficits have come under Democratic presidents.

Under Obama, the national debt went from $10.6 trillion to $19.9 trillion.

Is that the best change?

 

[SassyIrishLass]

Any ideas why the democrats are decimated and lost nearly all they power they had?

I wouldn't be pointing fingers

 

[jwoodie]

Hi folks! I was hoping for an intelligent, civil discussion on what I see as some major problems with the Republican party in the modern age (say, Reagan through Trump). Yes, I think Democrats have problems. No side in US politics is without hypocrisy, fault, and the like. Maybe I'll do another thread about that, but for now, this one is focused on the GOP.

See, I grew up respecting Republicans even though I was a Democrat. But I'm struggling these days to find that respect again. IMO, here are those major problems.

1. Doctrinal Purity: I'm worried by the trend towards policing Republicans for being ideologically impure. The GOP used to be a big tent party, but these days, I see too many RINO accusations. It seems like any Republican who deviates from core principals like low taxes or pro-life can be considered a traitor to the cause. I think this is why the GOP has been unable to change and adapt, such as reaching out to Hispanics.

2. Rejection Of Research And Science: I get that facts can be slippery and that studies, stats, etc. can be skewed. But there seems to be a growing trend in the Republican Party to outright reject research and science. Global warming is not a question, yet many Republicans deny it. Evolution and the Big Bang are valid theories that work, but Republicans often reject both. I just don't get it, and I cannot see how the GOP can effectively lead by demonizing science.

3. Fiscal irresponsibility: Back when I was young, I held two idea: Democrats spend like crazy, and Republicans tighten budgets. But in recent years, I've seen the opposite. Republicans sometimes lower taxes, but they rarely decrease spending. In fact, the best changes to our national debt and deficits have come under Democratic presidents. These days, I fully expect Republicans to spend like crazy.

4. Valuing Winning Over Morality: Whether you agree with Trump's policies or not, one thing is factually accurate: Trump is not a good person. He's not evil, but he bragged about sexual assault and lies very often. Even his "straight talk" is suspect and bullying. Compare him to Reagan, and you'll see what I mean. But not only did he win the GOP nomination, Republicans continue to support him no matter what he does. It seems to me that The Republican Party values winning elections over being a good person.

Do you agree that these problems exist? As usual, respect will be returned. Due to this forum's rules, disrespect will simply be ignored.

1. Doctrinal purity in the GOP has not existed since Barry Goldwater (1964). Even Reagan was a pragmatist, and none the successive GOP Presidential nominees have had an ounce of doctrinal purity (unless you only consider the abortion issue).

2. "Rejection of science" is in the eye of the beholder, particularly when it has a large political component. Every other liberal doomsday scenario in the past 50 years has been debunked, so why does the latest iteration deserve to be viewed with with any less scepticism?

3. Fiscal irresponsibilty/structural deficits are a hallmark of Democratic administrations (except when hamstrung by a GOP Congress), giving out more and more pieces of the same pie. The GOP at least tries to make the pie bigger.

4. Winning over morality: In view of the last election, criticizing the GOP is almost a joke. Which Party tried to disrupt political rallies and rig the debates? Which Democrat was a "good person" according to your standards? Hillary Clinton?

 

[usmbguest5318]

Though I don't always agree with GOP "doctrine," I used to have respect for the party itself and most of its leaders and members. That's gone and it is for one reason only: Donald Trump. He truly is the only real problem I have with the GOP, and the problem I have with him is his character and comportment. The man is dangerous to the point that his policy proposals just don't matter; someone more stable can effect the same policies without engendering the wanton discord that man does.

 

[jwoodie]

Though I don't always agree with GOP "doctrine," I used to have respect for the party itself and most of its leaders and members. That's gone and it is for one reason only: Donald Trump. He truly is the only real problem I have with the GOP, and the problem I have with him is his character and comportment. The man is dangerous to the point that his policy proposals just don't matter; someone more stable can effect the same policies without engendering the wanton discord that man does.

Which of the other GOP candidates would you have voted for (instead of Hillary)?

 

[Correll]

Hi folks! I was hoping for an intelligent, civil discussion on what I see as some major problems with the Republican party in the modern age (say, Reagan through Trump). Yes, I think Democrats have problems. No side in US politics is without hypocrisy, fault, and the like. Maybe I'll do another thread about that, but for now, this one is focused on the GOP.

See, I grew up respecting Republicans even though I was a Democrat. But I'm struggling these days to find that respect again. IMO, here are those major problems.

1. Doctrinal Purity: I'm worried by the trend towards policing Republicans for being ideologically impure. The GOP used to be a big tent party, but these days, I see too many RINO accusations. It seems like any Republican who deviates from core principals like low taxes or pro-life can be considered a traitor to the cause. I think this is why the GOP has been unable to change and adapt, such as reaching out to Hispanics.

The Rinos have been increasingly assholes. The issues are reaching tipping points that require desperate action. Citing the failure of the GOP to reach out to Hispanics in an environment of massive and constant race baiting by the left is not acceptable.

2. Rejection Of Research And Science: I get that facts can be slippery and that studies, stats, etc. can be skewed. But there seems to be a growing trend in the Republican Party to outright reject research and science. Global warming is not a question, yet many Republicans deny it. Evolution and the Big Bang are valid theories that work, but Republicans often reject both. I just don't get it, and I cannot see how the GOP can effectively lead by demonizing science.

Your post reeks of partisan bias and confirmation bias.

3. Fiscal irresponsibility: Back when I was young, I held two idea: Democrats spend like crazy, and Republicans tighten budgets. But in recent years, I've seen the opposite. Republicans sometimes lower taxes, but they rarely decrease spending. In fact, the best changes to our national debt and deficits have come under Democratic presidents. These days, I fully expect Republicans to spend like crazy.

If you were serious about this, you would note that the conservative "panic mongering" over the impact of Social Security on savings and government budgets has been completely borne out.

Your desire to undermine republicans by wanting to see them try to address this Third Rail of your creation is noted and rejected. The budget is in free fall and will remain so until it crashes. We aren't throwing ourselves on that grenade for you.

[/QUOTE]

4. Valuing Winning Over Morality: Whether you agree with Trump's policies or not, one thing is factually accurate: Trump is not a good person. He's not evil, but he bragged about sexual assault and lies very often. Even his "straight talk" is suspect and bullying. Compare him to Reagan, and you'll see what I mean. But not only did he win the GOP nomination, Republicans continue to support him no matter what he does. It seems to me that The Republican Party values winning elections over being a good person.

Do you agree that these problems exist? As usual, respect will be returned. Due to this forum's rules, disrespect will simply be ignored.[/QUOTE]


He did not brag about sexual assault. This post is invalid.

 

[Sunni Man]

Trump is the best thing to happen to the Republican party in decades. ......

 

[Iceweasel]

Hi folks! I was hoping for an intelligent, civil discussion on what I see as some major problems with the Republican party in the modern age (say, Reagan through Trump). Yes, I think Democrats have problems. No side in US politics is without hypocrisy, fault, and the like. Maybe I'll do another thread about that, but for now, this one is focused on the GOP.

See, I grew up respecting Republicans even though I was a Democrat. But I'm struggling these days to find that respect again. IMO, here are those major problems.

1. Doctrinal Purity: I'm worried by the trend towards policing Republicans for being ideologically impure. The GOP used to be a big tent party, but these days, I see too many RINO accusations. It seems like any Republican who deviates from core principals like low taxes or pro-life can be considered a traitor to the cause. I think this is why the GOP has been unable to change and adapt, such as reaching out to Hispanics.

2. Rejection Of Research And Science: I get that facts can be slippery and that studies, stats, etc. can be skewed. But there seems to be a growing trend in the Republican Party to outright reject research and science. Global warming is not a question, yet many Republicans deny it. Evolution and the Big Bang are valid theories that work, but Republicans often reject both. I just don't get it, and I cannot see how the GOP can effectively lead by demonizing science.

3. Fiscal irresponsibility: Back when I was young, I held two idea: Democrats spend like crazy, and Republicans tighten budgets. But in recent years, I've seen the opposite. Republicans sometimes lower taxes, but they rarely decrease spending. In fact, the best changes to our national debt and deficits have come under Democratic presidents. These days, I fully expect Republicans to spend like crazy.

4. Valuing Winning Over Morality: Whether you agree with Trump's policies or not, one thing is factually accurate: Trump is not a good person. He's not evil, but he bragged about sexual assault and lies very often. Even his "straight talk" is suspect and bullying. Compare him to Reagan, and you'll see what I mean. But not only did he win the GOP nomination, Republicans continue to support him no matter what he does. It seems to me that The Republican Party values winning elections over being a good person.

Do you agree that these problems exist? As usual, respect will be returned. Due to this forum's rules, disrespect will simply be ignored.

You obviously cannot see how biased you are.

1. The GOP is more varied that the Dems. Where are all the conservative democrats? The last one I can recall was Zell Miller. The democrat changed so drastically from JFK's day they had a socialist that probably would have won in a fair primary. Unfortunately for him the dems are corrupt to the core, as has been revealed in the email leaks for those that didn't already know.

2. The right doesn't reject science, we just don't like it misused and rammed down our throats as a religion. No one denies climate change, we haven't seen the evidence that man is causing it. Consensus isn't science. You don't need opinions if you have facts.

Even if it were true we've been on the right track with capitalists inventing more efficient and cleaner burning machines. I have no interest in joining the global socialist movement that uses Warming as a method to rob us and redistribute the wealth.

3. Obama added 10 trillion to our debt. doubling it. I have no idea what your news source is, but it doesn't dwell within this reality. The Republicans did cut spending growth and it has helped in spending but the left screams bloody murder and call them the party of no if they don't get what they want. We need to spend MUCH less but Dems damn sure aren't going to tighten the purse strings. Hillary ran on raising taxes, Obama did raise taxes. They are the party of tax and spend.

4. It's factual Trump isn't a good person? Since you DISHONESTLY put this in the CDZ like you've done before, I'll just say you're industrial strength smug, and intellectually dishonest. Honest people don't smear people and pretend it's respectful.

If you really wanted a fair debate you wouldn't make inflammatory comments and assert them as fact. It should be obvious to someone even as filled with self adoration as yourself that a whole bunch of people do not accept your premise. Seeing as how he won the election and all. That doesn't speak to you?

I hope they move your arrogant tripe to the flame zone where it belongs.

 

[Iceweasel]

Though I don't always agree with GOP "doctrine," I used to have respect for the party itself and most of its leaders and members. That's gone and it is for one reason only: Donald Trump. He truly is the only real problem I have with the GOP, and the problem I have with him is his character and comportment. The man is dangerous to the point that his policy proposals just don't matter; someone more stable can effect the same policies without engendering the wanton discord that man does.

You probably said the same thing about Bush. Would have about McCain and Romney too had they won. He was the candidate that wants less US global intervention. Did you not pay any attention to the presidential race?

 

[wjmacguffin]

Hi folks! I was hoping for an intelligent, civil discussion on what I see as some major problems with the Republican party in the modern age (say, Reagan through Trump). Yes, I think Democrats have problems. No side in US politics is without hypocrisy, fault, and the like. Maybe I'll do another thread about that, but for now, this one is focused on the GOP.

See, I grew up respecting Republicans even though I was a Democrat. But I'm struggling these days to find that respect again. IMO, here are those major problems.

1. Doctrinal Purity: I'm worried by the trend towards policing Republicans for being ideologically impure. The GOP used to be a big tent party, but these days, I see too many RINO accusations. It seems like any Republican who deviates from core principals like low taxes or pro-life can be considered a traitor to the cause. I think this is why the GOP has been unable to change and adapt, such as reaching out to Hispanics.

2. Rejection Of Research And Science: I get that facts can be slippery and that studies, stats, etc. can be skewed. But there seems to be a growing trend in the Republican Party to outright reject research and science. Global warming is not a question, yet many Republicans deny it. Evolution and the Big Bang are valid theories that work, but Republicans often reject both. I just don't get it, and I cannot see how the GOP can effectively lead by demonizing science.

3. Fiscal irresponsibility: Back when I was young, I held two idea: Democrats spend like crazy, and Republicans tighten budgets. But in recent years, I've seen the opposite. Republicans sometimes lower taxes, but they rarely decrease spending. In fact, the best changes to our national debt and deficits have come under Democratic presidents. These days, I fully expect Republicans to spend like crazy.

4. Valuing Winning Over Morality: Whether you agree with Trump's policies or not, one thing is factually accurate: Trump is not a good person. He's not evil, but he bragged about sexual assault and lies very often. Even his "straight talk" is suspect and bullying. Compare him to Reagan, and you'll see what I mean. But not only did he win the GOP nomination, Republicans continue to support him no matter what he does. It seems to me that The Republican Party values winning elections over being a good person.

Do you agree that these problems exist? As usual, respect will be returned. Due to this forum's rules, disrespect will simply be ignored.

The Republicans have dived into a sea of corporatism and globalism. I think that's their biggest problem.
AGW is the problem. Not natural earth evolution. Number 2 is just malarkey
Number 4 is a duopoly problem. Both sides are so partisan now it makes me sick to my stomach. Republicans deny like crazy and the dems have actually turned to violence and destruction. Its sad.

Corporatism I see, but how globalism? I see them being increasingly isolationist.

Sorry, but I've read of GOP folks denying global warming at all (see Limbaugh's claims the earth is cooling, not warming) and that evolution is a Satanic lie. I don't know how you can call #2 malarkey with such evidence.

As for duopoly, I don't see that as a duopoly problem. Better put, I agree that there's a duopoly on US politics, but I don't see how Republican denials or accusations that Dems are violent applies to my proposition that Reps are more concerned with winning than morality.

 

[Toddsterpatriot]

Hi folks! I was hoping for an intelligent, civil discussion on what I see as some major problems with the Republican party in the modern age (say, Reagan through Trump). Yes, I think Democrats have problems. No side in US politics is without hypocrisy, fault, and the like. Maybe I'll do another thread about that, but for now, this one is focused on the GOP.

See, I grew up respecting Republicans even though I was a Democrat. But I'm struggling these days to find that respect again. IMO, here are those major problems.

1. Doctrinal Purity: I'm worried by the trend towards policing Republicans for being ideologically impure. The GOP used to be a big tent party, but these days, I see too many RINO accusations. It seems like any Republican who deviates from core principals like low taxes or pro-life can be considered a traitor to the cause. I think this is why the GOP has been unable to change and adapt, such as reaching out to Hispanics.

2. Rejection Of Research And Science: I get that facts can be slippery and that studies, stats, etc. can be skewed. But there seems to be a growing trend in the Republican Party to outright reject research and science. Global warming is not a question, yet many Republicans deny it. Evolution and the Big Bang are valid theories that work, but Republicans often reject both. I just don't get it, and I cannot see how the GOP can effectively lead by demonizing science.

3. Fiscal irresponsibility: Back when I was young, I held two idea: Democrats spend like crazy, and Republicans tighten budgets. But in recent years, I've seen the opposite. Republicans sometimes lower taxes, but they rarely decrease spending. In fact, the best changes to our national debt and deficits have come under Democratic presidents. These days, I fully expect Republicans to spend like crazy.

4. Valuing Winning Over Morality: Whether you agree with Trump's policies or not, one thing is factually accurate: Trump is not a good person. He's not evil, but he bragged about sexual assault and lies very often. Even his "straight talk" is suspect and bullying. Compare him to Reagan, and you'll see what I mean. But not only did he win the GOP nomination, Republicans continue to support him no matter what he does. It seems to me that The Republican Party values winning elections over being a good person.

Do you agree that these problems exist? As usual, respect will be returned. Due to this forum's rules, disrespect will simply be ignored.

The Republicans have dived into a sea of corporatism and globalism. I think that's their biggest problem.
AGW is the problem. Not natural earth evolution. Number 2 is just malarkey
Number 4 is a duopoly problem. Both sides are so partisan now it makes me sick to my stomach. Republicans deny like crazy and the dems have actually turned to violence and destruction. Its sad.

Corporatism I see, but how globalism? I see them being increasingly isolationist.

Sorry, but I've read of GOP folks denying global warming at all (see Limbaugh's claims the earth is cooling, not warming) and that evolution is a Satanic lie. I don't know how you can call #2 malarkey with such evidence.

As for duopoly, I don't see that as a duopoly problem. Better put, I agree that there's a duopoly on US politics, but I don't see how Republican denials or accusations that Dems are violent applies to my proposition that Reps are more concerned with winning than morality.

Sorry, but I've read of GOP folks denying global warming at all

And then you have Dems whining about GMOs, vaccines and nuclear energy.

 

[Iceweasel]

Sorry, but I've read of GOP folks denying global warming at all (see Limbaugh's claims the earth is cooling, not warming) and that evolution is a Satanic lie. I don't know how you can call #2 malarkey with such evidence.

As for duopoly, I don't see that as a duopoly problem. Better put, I agree that there's a duopoly on US politics, but I don't see how Republican denials or accusations that Dems are violent applies to my proposition that Reps are more concerned with winning than morality.

Go ahead and post where Rush said that. You've now shifted to "GOP folks" as if anything anyone on the right says can make your case. That's neither honest of scholarly but I've never heard Rush speak against evolution. You've likely never heard him speak, just listen to leftwing sources and assume it's true.

 

[wjmacguffin]

Hi folks! I was hoping for an intelligent, civil discussion on what I see as some major problems with the Republican party in the modern age (say, Reagan through Trump). Yes, I think Democrats have problems. No side in US politics is without hypocrisy, fault, and the like. Maybe I'll do another thread about that, but for now, this one is focused on the GOP.

See, I grew up respecting Republicans even though I was a Democrat. But I'm struggling these days to find that respect again. IMO, here are those major problems.

1. Doctrinal Purity: I'm worried by the trend towards policing Republicans for being ideologically impure. The GOP used to be a big tent party, but these days, I see too many RINO accusations. It seems like any Republican who deviates from core principals like low taxes or pro-life can be considered a traitor to the cause. I think this is why the GOP has been unable to change and adapt, such as reaching out to Hispanics.

2. Rejection Of Research And Science: I get that facts can be slippery and that studies, stats, etc. can be skewed. But there seems to be a growing trend in the Republican Party to outright reject research and science. Global warming is not a question, yet many Republicans deny it. Evolution and the Big Bang are valid theories that work, but Republicans often reject both. I just don't get it, and I cannot see how the GOP can effectively lead by demonizing science.

3. Fiscal irresponsibility: Back when I was young, I held two idea: Democrats spend like crazy, and Republicans tighten budgets. But in recent years, I've seen the opposite. Republicans sometimes lower taxes, but they rarely decrease spending. In fact, the best changes to our national debt and deficits have come under Democratic presidents. These days, I fully expect Republicans to spend like crazy.

4. Valuing Winning Over Morality: Whether you agree with Trump's policies or not, one thing is factually accurate: Trump is not a good person. He's not evil, but he bragged about sexual assault and lies very often. Even his "straight talk" is suspect and bullying. Compare him to Reagan, and you'll see what I mean. But not only did he win the GOP nomination, Republicans continue to support him no matter what he does. It seems to me that The Republican Party values winning elections over being a good person.

Do you agree that these problems exist? As usual, respect will be returned. Due to this forum's rules, disrespect will simply be ignored.

In fact, the best changes to our national debt and deficits have come under Democratic presidents.

Under Obama, the national debt went from $10.6 trillion to $19.9 trillion.

Is that the best change?

The national debt under Obama increased by around 60% according to your numbers. The national debut under Reagan increased by 190%. Plus, the deficit under Obama increased but by it's smallest rate in years.

 

[wjmacguffin]

Any ideas why the democrats are decimated and lost nearly all they power they had?

I wouldn't be pointing fingers

As I said, Democrats definitely have their own problems. If you'd like to discuss that, please feel free to start your own thread.

 

[TNHarley]

Hi folks! I was hoping for an intelligent, civil discussion on what I see as some major problems with the Republican party in the modern age (say, Reagan through Trump). Yes, I think Democrats have problems. No side in US politics is without hypocrisy, fault, and the like. Maybe I'll do another thread about that, but for now, this one is focused on the GOP.

See, I grew up respecting Republicans even though I was a Democrat. But I'm struggling these days to find that respect again. IMO, here are those major problems.

1. Doctrinal Purity: I'm worried by the trend towards policing Republicans for being ideologically impure. The GOP used to be a big tent party, but these days, I see too many RINO accusations. It seems like any Republican who deviates from core principals like low taxes or pro-life can be considered a traitor to the cause. I think this is why the GOP has been unable to change and adapt, such as reaching out to Hispanics.

2. Rejection Of Research And Science: I get that facts can be slippery and that studies, stats, etc. can be skewed. But there seems to be a growing trend in the Republican Party to outright reject research and science. Global warming is not a question, yet many Republicans deny it. Evolution and the Big Bang are valid theories that work, but Republicans often reject both. I just don't get it, and I cannot see how the GOP can effectively lead by demonizing science.

3. Fiscal irresponsibility: Back when I was young, I held two idea: Democrats spend like crazy, and Republicans tighten budgets. But in recent years, I've seen the opposite. Republicans sometimes lower taxes, but they rarely decrease spending. In fact, the best changes to our national debt and deficits have come under Democratic presidents. These days, I fully expect Republicans to spend like crazy.

4. Valuing Winning Over Morality: Whether you agree with Trump's policies or not, one thing is factually accurate: Trump is not a good person. He's not evil, but he bragged about sexual assault and lies very often. Even his "straight talk" is suspect and bullying. Compare him to Reagan, and you'll see what I mean. But not only did he win the GOP nomination, Republicans continue to support him no matter what he does. It seems to me that The Republican Party values winning elections over being a good person.

Do you agree that these problems exist? As usual, respect will be returned. Due to this forum's rules, disrespect will simply be ignored.

The Republicans have dived into a sea of corporatism and globalism. I think that's their biggest problem.
AGW is the problem. Not natural earth evolution. Number 2 is just malarkey
Number 4 is a duopoly problem. Both sides are so partisan now it makes me sick to my stomach. Republicans deny like crazy and the dems have actually turned to violence and destruction. Its sad.

Corporatism I see, but how globalism? I see them being increasingly isolationist.

Sorry, but I've read of GOP folks denying global warming at all (see Limbaugh's claims the earth is cooling, not warming) and that evolution is a Satanic lie. I don't know how you can call #2 malarkey with such evidence.

As for duopoly, I don't see that as a duopoly problem. Better put, I agree that there's a duopoly on US politics, but I don't see how Republican denials or accusations that Dems are violent applies to my proposition that Reps are more concerned with winning than morality.

Trade deals, amnesty, VISAs, arming and training terrorists for proxy wars..
There is a difference between AGW and natural earth evolution.
Thats not what I meant, sorry. I was talking about them denying shit from their camp. And also the dems blah blah blah.

 

[wjmacguffin]

Hi folks! I was hoping for an intelligent, civil discussion on what I see as some major problems with the Republican party in the modern age (say, Reagan through Trump). Yes, I think Democrats have problems. No side in US politics is without hypocrisy, fault, and the like. Maybe I'll do another thread about that, but for now, this one is focused on the GOP.

See, I grew up respecting Republicans even though I was a Democrat. But I'm struggling these days to find that respect again. IMO, here are those major problems.

1. Doctrinal Purity: I'm worried by the trend towards policing Republicans for being ideologically impure. The GOP used to be a big tent party, but these days, I see too many RINO accusations. It seems like any Republican who deviates from core principals like low taxes or pro-life can be considered a traitor to the cause. I think this is why the GOP has been unable to change and adapt, such as reaching out to Hispanics.

The Rinos have been increasingly assholes. The issues are reaching tipping points that require desperate action. Citing the failure of the GOP to reach out to Hispanics in an environment of massive and constant race baiting by the left is not acceptable.

2. Rejection Of Research And Science: I get that facts can be slippery and that studies, stats, etc. can be skewed. But there seems to be a growing trend in the Republican Party to outright reject research and science. Global warming is not a question, yet many Republicans deny it. Evolution and the Big Bang are valid theories that work, but Republicans often reject both. I just don't get it, and I cannot see how the GOP can effectively lead by demonizing science.

Your post reeks of partisan bias and confirmation bias.

3. Fiscal irresponsibility: Back when I was young, I held two idea: Democrats spend like crazy, and Republicans tighten budgets. But in recent years, I've seen the opposite. Republicans sometimes lower taxes, but they rarely decrease spending. In fact, the best changes to our national debt and deficits have come under Democratic presidents. These days, I fully expect Republicans to spend like crazy.

If you were serious about this, you would note that the conservative "panic mongering" over the impact of Social Security on savings and government budgets has been completely borne out.

Your desire to undermine republicans by wanting to see them try to address this Third Rail of your creation is noted and rejected. The budget is in free fall and will remain so until it crashes. We aren't throwing ourselves on that grenade for you.

4. Valuing Winning Over Morality: Whether you agree with Trump's policies or not, one thing is factually accurate: Trump is not a good person. He's not evil, but he bragged about sexual assault and lies very often. Even his "straight talk" is suspect and bullying. Compare him to Reagan, and you'll see what I mean. But not only did he win the GOP nomination, Republicans continue to support him no matter what he does. It seems to me that The Republican Party values winning elections over being a good person.

Do you agree that these problems exist? As usual, respect will be returned. Due to this forum's rules, disrespect will simply be ignored.[/QUOTE]


He did not brag about sexual assault. This post is invalid.[/QUOTE]

1) Sorry, but it looks like you're blaming others for your party's failure. Hispanics are Americans, too. Just because they're not white doesn't mean you can ignore them under the guide of "race baiting".

2) "Reeks of partisan bias"? Maybe. That's why I wanted a discussion and civil debate on it. I could very well be wrong. But if you don't want to participate, then just don't post.

3) AFAIK, Social Security would be just fine if Congress didn't raid it to patch budget holes. And it's hard to take "panic mongering" about the budget seriously when they add to the problem with spending increases and tax cuts.

And I'm not asking anyone to touch a third rail or grenade for me. I asked for a debate. Again, if you cannot handle that, I respectfully suggest you stay quiet. But then again, this is a public forum — you are free to do what you want.

4) Trump: "I just start kissing them. It’s like a magnet. Just kiss. I don’t even wait. And when you’re a star, they let you do it. You can do anything. Grab them by the pussy. You can do anything.” That's bragging about sexual assault. Case closed. But if you'd like to discount that point, there's the larger and more important one of Trump's behavior being ignored because he won.

 

[wjmacguffin]

Hi folks! I was hoping for an intelligent, civil discussion on what I see as some major problems with the Republican party in the modern age (say, Reagan through Trump). Yes, I think Democrats have problems. No side in US politics is without hypocrisy, fault, and the like. Maybe I'll do another thread about that, but for now, this one is focused on the GOP.

See, I grew up respecting Republicans even though I was a Democrat. But I'm struggling these days to find that respect again. IMO, here are those major problems.

1. Doctrinal Purity: I'm worried by the trend towards policing Republicans for being ideologically impure. The GOP used to be a big tent party, but these days, I see too many RINO accusations. It seems like any Republican who deviates from core principals like low taxes or pro-life can be considered a traitor to the cause. I think this is why the GOP has been unable to change and adapt, such as reaching out to Hispanics.

2. Rejection Of Research And Science: I get that facts can be slippery and that studies, stats, etc. can be skewed. But there seems to be a growing trend in the Republican Party to outright reject research and science. Global warming is not a question, yet many Republicans deny it. Evolution and the Big Bang are valid theories that work, but Republicans often reject both. I just don't get it, and I cannot see how the GOP can effectively lead by demonizing science.

3. Fiscal irresponsibility: Back when I was young, I held two idea: Democrats spend like crazy, and Republicans tighten budgets. But in recent years, I've seen the opposite. Republicans sometimes lower taxes, but they rarely decrease spending. In fact, the best changes to our national debt and deficits have come under Democratic presidents. These days, I fully expect Republicans to spend like crazy.

4. Valuing Winning Over Morality: Whether you agree with Trump's policies or not, one thing is factually accurate: Trump is not a good person. He's not evil, but he bragged about sexual assault and lies very often. Even his "straight talk" is suspect and bullying. Compare him to Reagan, and you'll see what I mean. But not only did he win the GOP nomination, Republicans continue to support him no matter what he does. It seems to me that The Republican Party values winning elections over being a good person.

Do you agree that these problems exist? As usual, respect will be returned. Due to this forum's rules, disrespect will simply be ignored.

The Republicans have dived into a sea of corporatism and globalism. I think that's their biggest problem.
AGW is the problem. Not natural earth evolution. Number 2 is just malarkey
Number 4 is a duopoly problem. Both sides are so partisan now it makes me sick to my stomach. Republicans deny like crazy and the dems have actually turned to violence and destruction. Its sad.

Corporatism I see, but how globalism? I see them being increasingly isolationist.

Sorry, but I've read of GOP folks denying global warming at all (see Limbaugh's claims the earth is cooling, not warming) and that evolution is a Satanic lie. I don't know how you can call #2 malarkey with such evidence.

As for duopoly, I don't see that as a duopoly problem. Better put, I agree that there's a duopoly on US politics, but I don't see how Republican denials or accusations that Dems are violent applies to my proposition that Reps are more concerned with winning than morality.

Sorry, but I've read of GOP folks denying global warming at all

And then you have Dems whining about GMOs, vaccines and nuclear energy.

I agree that Dems and libs need to shut up about GMOs, vaccines, and nuclear power. But that's not germane to the thread, and it does not validate denying global warming.

 

[SassyIrishLass]

Any ideas why the democrats are decimated and lost nearly all they power they had?

I wouldn't be pointing fingers

As I said, Democrats definitely have their own problems. If you'd like to discuss that, please feel free to start your own thread.

Nah, I'll post my rebuttal in this thread.

The dems problems far outweigh the GOP's...all one has to do is look at who has the power