NationStates Jolt Archive

more school- the Asians are only stealing our rightful jobs cuz they go to school 8am-5pm Mon-Fri and 8am-noon on Sat.

more security on the Mexican borders... they are cutting the resourses down there!

more military training in schools- make it to where citizens don't have to rely on others to protect them from terrorists! :mp5:

I think that they should keep certain info. disclosed from the citezens cuz they are likely to go parinoid when they find out... the government's business is not necissarily the citizens!

I'd dissolve all save the judicial branch and form a new government.

MY (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=480718&highlight=ruled+world) veiws?

I'd dissolve all save the judicial branch and form a new government.

... that, and declare myself Dictator-for-Life.

Clean up the government itself. I don't know how I would do it, but I would get all these lobbyists and special interests out.

Dump welfare
Dump SS
Dump healthcare

Make enforcement/Military/Border security main gov't issue

get rid of Income tax

Start practicing mexican border security

Start a mandatory 2/4/6/8/career Military service

Get rid of the 5.56 in the services

Get rid of Most gun control

get rid of most taxes

Etc

Clean up the government itself. I don't know how I would do it, but I would get all these lobbyists and special interests out.
Dissolve it and make yourself autocrat. Simple.

Dump welfare
Dump SS
Dump healthcare

Make enforcement/Military/Border security main gov't issue

get rid of Income tax

get rid of most taxes

Etc
Sadly you cannot have a decently run military without tax revenues.

I would turn the entire country into a giant pyramid scheme. With my wallet at the top. Then I would take over Canada, and rule awesomely. If there is time left over, I will invade Russia...from the East. It is sure to work.

Dump welfare
Dump SS
Dump healthcare

Make enforcement/Military/Border security main gov't issue

get rid of Income tax

Start practicing mexican border security

Start a mandatory 2/4/6/8/career Military service

Get rid of the 5.56 in the services

Get rid of Most gun control

get rid of most taxes

Etc
I'm not sure what SS is, but health care is important, and there is a welfare to work program, you know. Get rid of income tax? How are you gonna finance the schools, police, military? Get rid of gun control? You want felons to have guns, I presume?

I have actually been toying around the idea of a draft, since I am staunchly pro-military (joining the Marine Corps when I finish high school). That's the only thing we agree on then.

Sadly you cannot have a decently run military without tax revenues.
With all the cuts he is making to social programs, there should be plenty for the military.

Sadly you cannot have a decently run military without tax revenues.

Nope-I said most taxes. National sales tax is probably one of the few.

With all the cuts he is making to social programs, there should be plenty for the military.

And still some left over. Much like PIE.

I'm not sure what SS is, but health care is important, and there is a welfare to work program, you know. Get rid of income tax? How are you gonna finance the schools, police, military? Get rid of gun control? You want felons to have guns, I presume?

I have actually been toying around the idea of a draft, since I am staunchly pro-military (joining the Marine Corps when I finish high school). That's the only thing we agree on then.
He would make schools, police, and maybe even the military privately run. That's how he would pay for them. And, since when have felons cared about the law?

He would make schools, police, and maybe even the military privately run. That's how he would pay for them. And, since when have felons cared about the law?
Well, right now, it's more expensive for them to get guns since they are on the black market. I think making schools privately run is an insane idea, as you would naturally have people who wouldn't be able to afford them, or afford very bad ones, thus creating a permanent, poorly-educated underclass.

I'm not sure what SS is, but health care is important, and there is a welfare to work program, you know. Get rid of income tax? How are you gonna finance the schools, police, military? Get rid of gun control? You want felons to have guns, I presume?

I have actually been toying around the idea of a draft, since I am staunchly pro-military (joining the Marine Corps when I finish high school). That's the only thing we agree on then.

Social security. And I'd get rid of the NEA, and probably Most of the school system.

How are we going to fund the gov't without income tax? Easy, National sales tax. The gov't existed fine before the income tax on Tarrifs alone, and if it was small and lean, it could do it. Smaller gov't is better...period.

Felons have always (Since 68) barred from owning guns. That's not a part of gun control. Gun control is stupid BS "assault weapon bans", registration, etc. That and I'd make the "Right of the people to keep and bear arms" highlighted.

Well, right now, it's more expensive for them to get guns since they are on the black market. I think making schools privately run is an insane idea, as you would naturally have people who wouldn't be able to afford them, or afford very bad ones, thus creating a permanent, poorly-educated underclass.

You mean like right now? There are some corporations that would be able to run a school very cost efficiently and turn out good students. Just like we contract jail services out....

Social security. And I'd get rid of the NEA, and probably Most of the school system.

How are we going to fund the gov't without income tax? Easy, National sales tax. The gov't existed fine before the income tax on Tarrifs alone, and if it was small and lean, it could do it. Smaller gov't is better...period.

Felons have always (Since 68) barred from owning guns. That's not a part of gun control. Gun control is stupid BS "assault weapon bans", registration, etc. That and I'd make the "Right of the people to keep and bear arms" highlighted.
If you get rid of SS, you would have people starving and out on the streets. Also, I think in the long run, SS has actually greatly helped our economy because entrepeneurs were more willing to take risks because they knew they had something to fall back on. This has paid in dividends. Nowadays, there are more people in the US, and they demand more services. Simple as that. As soon as people stop demanding these services, they will stop, so it's not the government we should blame, but ourselves. One last thing: If you want to have assault weapons, join the military.

You mean like right now? There are some corporations that would be able to run a school very cost efficiently and turn out good students. Just like we contract jail services out....
Yeah, SOME corporations would be good. But not all. I think it's better to have a mediocre school system and have everyone get a reasonable education than to have some people get good educations just because they can pay for them.

Yeah, SOME corporations would be good. But not all. I think it's better to have a mediocre school system and have everyone get a reasonable education than to have some people get good educations just because they can pay for them.

They don't even get a mediocre education now. School vouchers are a better option for those not wanting to put their kids through crap public schools. A 'public' school run by a private company doesn't charge money from students. Simple, they tried this in Dallas and it seemed to work.

They don't even get a mediocre education now. School vouchers are a better option for those not wanting to put their kids through crap public schools. A 'public' school run by a private company doesn't charge money from students. Simple, they tried this in Dallas and it seemed to work.
Well, the schools really aren't that bad. Compare them to what we had say, 50 years ago, and I don't think you can complain. Then, again, I may be just speaking out of my ass, but all the schools I've been to(and I've been to quite a few) have provided me with a good education, I think.

more school- the Asians are only stealing our rightful jobs cuz they go to school 8am-5pm Mon-Fri and 8am-noon on Sat.


O RLY? http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/business/5063670.stm

I would remove the 17th amendment that allows for popular election os senators. There needs to be at least part of the legislature insulated from lobbies and ignorance and passions of voters. A group that can think about what is best for all of the nation over the long term rather than the next election.

"A well regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed." (the full 2nd amendment)

Since the establishment of a military, outside militias are not necessary. So while I am proud to have a strong military with whatever tools they need the rest of us should not have automatic weapons. If there were no automatic weapons cops would have a much easier time with gang violence and handling other situations that are difficult enough without unlimited numbers of bullets flying at them.

I'd strip corporations of their legal personhood, end gerrymandering, and outlaw lobbying and corporate donations to politicians, as well as corporate political advertising on any subject (if they're not persons, they don't have 1st Amendment rights, after all). Government of the people, by the people and for the people, after all.

They don't even get a mediocre education now. School vouchers are a better option for those not wanting to put their kids through crap public schools. A 'public' school run by a private company doesn't charge money from students. Simple, they tried this in Dallas and it seemed to work.
Seemed is the key word for me in this post. Last time I read about Texas education scores, there was a scandal about questionable test scoring and upping overall scores by removing the low scoring students from the calculations.

Break up the bipartisan oligarchy that is the current electoral system and replace it with something that offers more options to the American voter than "Fundie" and "Fundie Lite."

Make the government actually try to make the United Nations work as envisioned by enforcing its resolutions and push for dissolving the Permanent Security Council. An Old Boys Network is a bad thing no matter where.

I'd strip corporations of their legal personhood, end gerrymandering, and outlaw lobbying and corporate donations to politicians, as well as corporate political advertising on any subject (if they're not persons, they don't have 1st Amendment rights, after all). Government of the people, by the people and for the people, after all.
Ditto. I'm all over that action. :)

Plus I'd rework the election laws to allow for votes of no confidence or something similar at the national level.

And I'd restore enforcement powers to the GAO (General Accountability Office). It was taken from them by Bush I.

Seemed is the key word for me in this post. Last time I read about Texas education scores, there was a scandal about questionable test scoring and upping overall scores by removing the low scoring students from the calculations.
Well, hell, Nazz, any program can be made to seem to work if you fudge the numbers enough, so obviously, DM's plan would have to be run by accountants from Arthur Anderson.

Break up the bipartisan oligarchy that is the current electoral system and replace it with something that offers more options to the American voter than "Fundie" and "Fundie Lite."

Make the government actually try to make the United Nations work as envisioned by enforcing its resolutions and push for dissolving the Permanent Security Council. An Old Boys Network is a bad thing no matter where.
I'm very much in favor of a multiparty system. Some Americans act like the sky would fall if there were three parties in Congress (and the universe would implode if there were more :eek:). "But...but...there would be gridlock!", they cry. Right. Like Congress is so efficient as it is. Please.

If you get rid of SS, you would have people starving and out on the streets. Also, I think in the long run, SS has actually greatly helped our economy because entrepeneurs were more willing to take risks because they knew they had something to fall back on. This has paid in dividends. Nowadays, there are more people in the US, and they demand more services. Simple as that. As soon as people stop demanding these services, they will stop, so it's not the government we should blame, but ourselves. One last thing: If you want to have assault weapons, join the military.

The military doesn't use "assault weapons". And people are legally and have rights to them.

Seemed is the key word for me in this post. Last time I read about Texas education scores, there was a scandal about questionable test scoring and upping overall scores by removing the low scoring students from the calculations.

It was teachers trying to make themselves look better so they'd still have a job. The system caught it, and they'll probably get fired.

"A well regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed." (the full 2nd amendment)

Since the establishment of a military, outside militias are not necessary. So while I am proud to have a strong military with whatever tools they need the rest of us should not have automatic weapons. If there were no automatic weapons cops would have a much easier time with gang violence and handling other situations that are difficult enough without unlimited numbers of bullets flying at them.

When was the last time an officer faced down an automatic rifle? Probably 1997 in the hollywood shootout. Semi-automatic rifles such as the AR15& AK47 belong in civilian hands just as the military has them-if they are so effective in preserving lives in the military& police use, why can't civies have them? If they are too dangerous for civilians, the military and police ought not to have them.

The number of legal automatic weapons in the US is in the hundreds of thousands, and yet not a SINGLE one has ever been used in a crime. Never. The const. Gave us the right to own these 'terrible' weapons because the founders understood that the gov't wouldn't always be honest and that later generations might need tools to fight back and replace the gov't. There are TONS of legal uses for these weapons, including target shooting, hunting, and home defense.

<snip>
The number of legal automatic weapons in the US is in the hundreds of thousands, and yet not a SINGLE one has ever been used in a crime. Never. The const. Gave us the right to own these 'terrible' weapons because the founders understood that the gov't wouldn't always be honest and that later generations might need tools to fight back and replace the gov't. There are TONS of legal uses for these weapons, including target shooting, hunting, and home defense.
How do you know that? How can you possibly know that not one legally purchased automatic weapon has ever been used in a crime in the whole United States? Are you telling us that no one -- NO ONE -- has ever murdered their spouse with the family gun that just happened to be an automatic? Are you telling us that no legally purchased gun has ever been stolen and then used in a crime? Are you telling us that not one our school shootings or crazed disgruntled worker incidents involved legally purchased weapons? Really, you are going to have to provide a source with some data for that one.

The number of legal automatic weapons in the US is in the hundreds of thousands, and yet not a SINGLE one has ever been used in a crime. Never.

http://www.ojp.usdoj.gov/bjs/pub/pdf/guic.pdf
Page 6.
"A New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services study of homicides
in 1993 in New York City found that assault weapons were involved in 16% of the homicides studied."

The const. Gave us the right to own these 'terrible' weapons because the founders understood that the gov't wouldn't always be honest and that later generations might need tools to fight back and replace the gov't. There are TONS of legal uses for these weapons, including target shooting, hunting, and home defense.
Tons, eh? That's three. Got two more?

I'd re-make it in the HotRodian image. :)

Abolishment of Electoral College
Ban corporate contributions to political parties
Legalisation of Marijuana
Strict gun control
Compulsory military service

How do you know that? How can you possibly know that not one legally purchased automatic weapon has ever been used in a crime in the whole United States? Are you telling us that no one -- NO ONE -- has ever murdered their spouse with the family gun that just happened to be an automatic? Are you telling us that no legally purchased gun has ever been stolen and then used in a crime? Are you telling us that not one our school shootings or crazed disgruntled worker incidents involved legally purchased weapons? Really, you are going to have to provide a source with some data for that one.

Those aren't legally owned Automatic weapons, and most of the guns that end up in crimes (The few committed using) aren't FA. They may look like it, but are not.

The only crimes committed AFAIK w/ FA weapons are the Hollywood shootout and a case in NJ where a Police officer shot his neighbor with a SWAT issue MP5. There are more, I guess such as the Bonny and clyde robberies, but those were before the NFA of 1934 and so long ago.

Machine guns have been recovered in crimes, rarely. If you don't gunsmithing REALLY well and try to convert it to fire FA, you'll end up getting the gun to explode in your face via firing out of battery. Not good when bolt fragments go through your skull.

http://www.ojp.usdoj.gov/bjs/pub/pdf/guic.pdf
Page 6.
"A New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services study of homicides
in 1993 in New York City found that assault weapons were involved in 16% of the homicides studied."

And in NY all "assault weapons" are outlawed. Go figure! However, Guns that are the same are still legal as long as they only have 2 features. Stupidity at it's best.

Tons, eh? That's three. Got two more?

Deer, Hog, squirrel, bird, pheasant, varmint hunting, etc

Plinking

Zombie elemination-Bolt action rifles don't work too well for this.

Looter control-looters work in mobs

SHTF-When the fecal material hits the oscillating appliance. Societal Breakdown. End of the world. The end of the world as we know it-TEOTWAWKI-Katrina

Keeping Ghetto Goblins from hunting your family

Bushwhacking the Terrorists when they do come after you


My Romanian AKM is at the smith right now being assembled. Should get it back late august, hopefully before I leave. Here's a picture of it....

http://putfile.com/pic.php?pic=6/16103075472.jpg&s=f5


I highly recommend www.ar15.com for any questions regarding guns and stuff. People over there are always willing to answer questions and whatnot, I'm even a member myself.

The ultimate comeback to the quip that "Civilians don't need full auto/assault weapons"

This incident also goes down in the books for most rounds fired in Self defense.

High Volume Shootout: The Harry Beckwith Incident
Situation: A gun dealer faces robbers, again. Tonight the odds are seven to one against him.

Lesson: When the wolf pack has you, an armed citizen needs high capacity defensive weapons.

Harry Beckwith's Guns in Alachua County, Florida, is probably my favorite gunshop. It isn't just that smell of gun oil, cigar smoke, and old, worn leather that reminds me of the gun shops of my youth. It isn't just the fabulous Luger collection that resides there, nor the excellent buys, especially on collectibles. Harry's place has a karmic touch of the armed citizen about it that you don't find in the atmosphere of your average firearms emporium.

The revolver always visible at Harry's belt is nothing new for the gunshop habitude. Sometimes he wears a modest Charter Arms .44 Bulldog, and sometimes a Smith & Wesson Model 60 .38 Special with the fabulous Tiffany silver grips that you normally only see in the coffee table gun books.

No, what's different about Harry's is that as soon as you step out of your car in the spacious parking lot, you notice the bullet holes in the concrete outer walls of the building. Inside you see more holes in the walls.

There's a photo of a rifle champion next to his bullseye target and there's a hole in the bullseye - a REAL hole, which also pierces glass and backing.

"I like to tell folks that I put that one there intentionally," says Harry with a puckish grin. At 68, Harry admits that his recollection is a bit cloudy, but he figures that in his 35 years in the retail gun business he has experienced right at 35 robberies and burglaries. He proudly notes that in all those rip-offs and heist attempts, only two firearms were not recovered.

He also remembers the only three times when the thieves were unfortunate enough to face him. Each time, it evolved into a gun battle. Each time, he shot them and they didn't get to shoot him.

The first was a pure pistol fight. Harry drew and shot the robber, who lost all interest in carrying on the fight. This saved his life; when the wounded gunman surrendered, Harry Beckwith, a moral man, didn't shoot him again.

In the second shootout, the gun dealer interrupted a felon about to drive off with guns he'd heisted from the store. Though not a Class III weapons dealer, Beckwith was federally licensed to possess such arms for his own use. When the thug raised a .45 auto pistol at Harry, Beckwith trumped his ace with a burst of full automatic fire from a Smith & Wesson Model 76 9mm submachine gun. Struck in the forehead, the gunman dropped his pistol and screamed, "I'm hit!"

"Get out of the car," Beckwith roared back. The man did, and realizing he was still alive despite a gunshot wound in the forehead, he ran. Once more, Beckwith held fire.

The man was captured later and treated for an ugly but minor head injury from a flattened- out 9mm hollowpoint round that had lost most of it's energy piercing the safety glass of the windshield.

That incident took place in 1976, the Bicentennial of our nation's independence. A Class III weapons owner had delivered a splendidly appropriate demonstration of the independence our nation was celebrating. In the "the spirit of "76," he stopped a violent criminal with a Model 76.

But neither of these had prepared Harry Beckwith, then 63, old enough to collect Social Security and qualify as a Senior Citizen, for the incident that left his place of business bearing the distinctive scars you can see there to this day.

The night of November 12, 1990, promised to be a quiet one. The regular bowling pin shoot had finished up less than an hour ago. The gunshop was securely locked up, and so was the separate indoor shooting range building located behind it.

Harry Beckwith was at home with his wife in their beautiful hacienda, separated from the business structures by about 100 yards of beach sand and trees. A picturesque setting that would make the quintessential Florida postcard.

Harry was relaxed and watching TV. It was 9:50 p.m. Suddenly, two discordant sounds pierced the night. One was the distinctive crash of a heavy vehicle being driven through the steel-reinforced glass door in the concrete entryway of the gunshop. The other was the yelping of the burglar alarm.

Beck with moved instantly. He knew his rural location was remote; even though the police would be rolling immediately, he wasn't sure they could get there in time.

He moved smoothly and certainly, with the economy of motion that comes with age and with planning. He knew his wife would get on the phone and put a gun in her own hand, in a safe place. That left his mind free to cope with the problem of dealing with the marauders.

He reached for the weapons he had laid out for just such a contingency.

First was a Charter Arms Bulldog revolver in an old Bucheimer crossdraw paddle holster. It slipped easily into place in front of his left hip. It was loaded with five rounds of his favorite .44 Special ammunition, Winchester Silvertip hollowpoint.

Next came the Model 76 submachine gun. One magazine was in place, the bolt properly closed, "condition three." More magazines were rubber-banded to the extended stock. Beckwith had found this to be a faster way to access them than to attach a pouch in the same place. He slung the licensed submachine gun over his right shoulder.

He picked up an AR-15, a gun he has always described as a "Colt Sporting Rifle." It contained one magazine downloaded to only 15 rounds. Another such magazine was banded to its plastic stock as well.

With the other hand, he scooped up a Remington Model 1100 12 gauge semiautomatic shotgun, already fully loaded.

Figuring he was ready for anything, Harry Beckwith quietly stepped out into the shadows, moving away from the house in the direction of the shop, some 100 paces distant.

He could see that two vehicles were there, both '88 Oldsmobiles, one blue and one white. Numerous adult male figures were scurrying in and out of the shop, bearing armloads of guns to the cars through the door they'd crashed. He couldn't make out color or age, only that they were grown men, and that they were maybe seven of them.

At a point between the shop and the house, he carefully laid the shotgun down out of sight. It would be a fallback weapon if he had to retreat in that direction. He took the AR-15 in both hands, ready, and moved forward again.

But there was a full moon out, and the same moonlight that had allowed him to observe the criminals allowed them to see him. Beckwith knew then he'd been "made".

"I should've been more in the shadows," Beckwith would tell me years later. "He gunned the car straight at me. I'm too old to run. I fired off my shoulder at him and the vehicle."

When the butt of the rifle hit the shoulder pocket, Beckwith opened fire, manipulating the trigger as fast as he could. Suddenly, the AR was not responding; he had run dry.

The vehicle was still coming at him, rapidly closing the 50 yards distance.

A skilled man can reload an AR-15 almost as quickly as a Colt .45 auto, and Harry Beckwith is skilled at arms. As his right index finger punched the mag release, his left hand broke the spare magazine free of the rubber band and slammed it home with a practiced motion, his left thumb almost simultaneously pressing the bolt drop paddle on the left side of the frame.

He resumed fire, as fast as he could work the gun.

The high-pitched crack of the AR-15 could not drown out the dull chong sound of the .223 ball rounds punching through the auto body, nor the distinctive sound of heavy glass breaking. The vehicle swerved off course, and Harry ran dry again.

As he dropped the now useless rifle, the blue Oldsmobile veered away from him, cutting to its left. It threw a giant rooster-tail of dust as the driver accelerated away from the old man he had tried seconds before to crush to death. Beckwith saw the car disappear onto Route 441.

Beckwith turned his attention back toward the shop. Five more of the burglars were there, most holding guns, pistols and longer weapons.

Silhouetted in the moonlight, too old to run, still facing five-to-one odds against men with all kinds of guns capable of easily killing him from 50 yards away and who could easily have loaded up with some of the thousands of rounds they'd had access to for some time now, Beckwith knew he was still in deadly danger.

He swung up the Smith & Wesson submachine gun, racked the open bolt back and cut loose on full automatic.

"I fired high, over their heads, to keep them down," he would explain later. "I used short bursts."

He saw them duck. He knew it had bought him a moment. But his near-death experience with the blue Oldsmobile bearing down on him was fresh in his mind. If they crawled up the covered side of the car, they could do the same with the white Olds.

And if two magazines of .223 hadn't disabled the other identical vehicle, what could he hope to do with 9mm fire? He realized that the time to disable the felons' second car was now.

He swept it from one end to the other, reloaded, and continued. Every window in the Oldsmobile disintegrated as the copper jacketed bullets tore through. Beckwith had stagger- loaded the magazines with hardball and Remington 115 gr. jacketed hollowpoints. The tires deflated with an audible hiss.

Beckwith saw the surviving perps moving away from the vehicle. Now the big danger was being shot instead of being run down. A second empty S&W magazine hit the ground, and Beckwith opened another burst of diversionary fire with a third stick.

The perpetrators had enough. He saw them run around the corner of the building. He took a cover position and waited.

The first police car pulled into the scene approximately one minute later. To Beckwith, it seemed as if he waited an hour.

However, reconstruction of the incident would show that it had been only three minutes from when the alarm sounded to when the first responding Alachua County deputy made it into the gunshop. The incident itself had lasted less than two minutes.

During that time, Harry Beckwith had fired 105 shots.

By 2 a.m. all surviving perpetrators had been arrested and were in custody. Six were at the jail and one at morgue. Roger Patterson, age 18, was found dead in the wreck of the shot up Oldsmobile. He'd gotten across the line into Marion County with one tire shot away, driving 13 miles before he lost control and crashed. Cause of death was a .223 rifle wound through the chest.

The second man in the blue car was captured near the scene.

Both cars had been hot-wired and stolen. Some 20 stolen firearms were found in each car. The white Olds had been so badly shot up it had to be towed from the scene.

Patterson was the only one hit. This was because he was the only one Beckwith fired at. Most of his shots had been directed at keeping the other men's heads down and dissuading them, and at disabling their second vehicle, goals he achieved with spectacular success.

Beckwith told me later, "I could have killed all five of them, at the end, when they were running away and exposed to me. But I was no longer in danger from them, so chose not to shoot them."

Beckwith had high praise for the professionalism of the Alachua County Sheriff's Deputies in general, and particularly for those who responded that night - with one possible exception.

There is still anger in his voice when he relates, "One of them wanted to read me my rights!" However, the anger fades when he continues, " And then a sergeant said to the guy, "He's the victim, for Christ's sake!''

He is still bitter about having to speak before the grand jury. Most Florida jurisdictions bring justifiable homicides before a grand jury as a matter of course, but being in there alone without legal counsel still has a "star chamber" feel to it that leaves you with no warm fuzziness about the experience at all.

As any high school civics student knows, the function of a grand jury is to determine if you've committed a crime. That's a bitter pill to swallow when someone just ripped you off and tried to run you down like a possum in the road. Harry Beckwith still bitterly refers to his cross-examination before the grand jury as an "inquisition."

However, the system generally works, and Shakespeare was right when he said, "The truth will out." The grand jury returned a verdict of no true bill, in effect, designating the incident a justifiable use of lethal force.

What leaves Harry Beckwith most unhappy today is that these perpetrators, initially charged with felony murder, were allowed to plead down to attempted burglary. They turned out to range in age from 16 to 21.

Harry Beckwith fired two magazines of 15 rounds each from the Colt .223 rifle, and two full mags and part of a third from the S & W submachine gun. Only one bullet caused death.

The great majority of his gunfire fell into the "warning shot" category - suppressive fire if you will. We can argue at length about the concept of the warning shot, but the fact remains that in this case, it fulfilled its intended purpose.

It was not lost on the grand jury that exculpated Harry Beckwith that he could have killed all seven perpetrators, and chose not to. It was likewise to his benefit that twice before in his life, he had shown mercy and not killed men he'd shot when they gave up the fight after he wounded them.

Every case I've seen of a shooting with a lawfully owned Class III weapon has gone to a Grand Jury. Some of those grand juries have indicted.

However, every time it was provably self-defense, the subsequent Petit jury has also acquitted the shooter. Still, such trials are extremely expensive for the defendant.

(Interestingly, Florida is one of only two states, the other being Washington state, where an accused citizen found "not guilty" at trial can be reimbursed legal fees and costs by the local government.)

A good general rule for avoiding trial in a justifiable shooting would be, "Semi-auto yes, full-auto no."

In the November, 1990, incident, Beckwith fired more rounds than any armed citizen has probably fired in legitimate self-defense since the Indian Wars. I'm glad he got out of it ok.

Beckwith's domination and unscathed survival of this incident is owed in large part to the fact that he was allowed to lawfully possess high cartridge capacity, rapid-fire weapons for self-defense, the sort of "assault weapons" our current Administration would forbid other Americans to possess.

When Ted Gogol of the Law Enforcement Alliance of America was putting together a group of citizens who had used such firearms to protect their own lives and those of other innocent people, I put him in touch with Harry Beckwith, who would have gone to testify before Congress but for the fact that his wife was ill and he couldn't leave her.

But Harry Beckwith didn't need to testify in Congress to show that he's the kind of tough American who can stand up for his rights, temper justice with mercy, and take care of himself, even against seven-to-one odds if someone is trying to kill him.

As long as he is allowed to own and use the kind of weapons that give him parity against the sort of brutal criminal that runs in packs, and tries to run down and kill senior citizens who would dare to interfere with their lawless depredations.

The Ayoob Files
American Handgunner
September/October 1995

Smaller government

End "pork" spending

Lower taxes

Welfare reform

Ah, the super-big IF... I'm reminded of the scene from 'Mars Attacks' when the Congress is vaporized.

Sorry if I cop-out of the ole hypothetical. I've been an activist in the States, and while sometimes rewarding, it's also frustrating and hazardous: I was once arrested for circulating a petition and registering voters during Denver's "People's Fair". In the end, we legalized marijuana for medical purposes and our congressmen sued their constituents to overturn a voter-approved term-limits bill. And of course there was much more: Costco once prosecuted me for the same activity in San Francisco (on a street sidewalk adjacent their store), though the District Attorney through out the arrest before it reached the docket; I've registered or re-registered thousands of voters; and a little, super-old lady thanked me profusely for the work I was doing (medical marijuana). I'm not saying any of this to boast; rather, as a preface for this: activism can chip away at the corrupt establishment, but the real power that I have to change anything is that of changing the environment in which I live: sink or swim, America will do it without me. A friend once wisely said, "choose your battles". The "good fight"? It's someone else's turn; I choose to live in peace, and do it in the paradises of Asia. Good luck to all that are still there.

It was teachers trying to make themselves look better so they'd still have a job. The system caught it, and they'll probably get fired.

Sorry, but no--this was a system directed by the guy who eventually became the first Secretary of Education under Dubya. This wasn't some group of rogue teachers--it was a plan implemented at the highest levels.

Gee--that sounds familiar, doesn't it?

Much respect to the men and women of the United States armed services, but I do not completely trust my government.


These are the same corrupt individuals that we all knowingly and willingly elect to do the dirty job of governing us and dealing with the corrupt individuals heading the governments of other nations. What allows most people who actually realize or reflect upon this situation to sleep at night is the knowledge that these corrupt individuals going to bat for us are OUR corrupt individuals.


That said I would like a backup plan just in case something awful happens. What stops a demagogue from coming to power in the US and convincing the police and military to take over the nation by force?


Historically disarmament of a nation has prefaced mass-murder or dictatorial action on the part of the government. The 2nd ammendment was a good idea in its inception, when military grade weapons were easily available to and wieldable by the public, but modern jet fighters and tanks would prove to be quite the challenge, if not outright impossible, to operate for most civilians.

So while getting rid of certain aspects of gun control is a good start (obviously one doesn't remove gun control with respect to known felons), it doesn't "cut the mustard" in modern times.




Social security is already gutted (Bush already spent the trillions of dollars Clinton alloted for SS use ONLY, so no one here can really pretend that the SS system is in good shape. It was dying under Clinton already, and the fix that was in the works has been demolished. SS is a dead institution), and it's founded upon principles which can be called into question. With people living longer and the population of people living in retirement increasing the social security system is bound to collapse. The amount of people in retirement is not currently equal to the body of the work force, and with each passing year the discrepancy only increases. Social Security as it is currently implemented is a money sink.


Welfare is from its very inception poorly implemented (though this can be attributed to a poor understanding of society by social scientists of the time). Sure giving people food is a nice idea, but allowing illegal aliens which do not contribute tax dollars to qualify is just straining the system. Avoiding having the United States become a welfare state should be a major concern for Americans. Beyond this welfare doesn't actually address the problems associated with being poor. Recurrent poor actually makes welfare into a money sink with subsequently increasing number of poor people requiring increased welfare expenditures. With programs like Head Start, which educate poor people, you can actually get these people out into the work force and gainfully contributing to society and providing good odds that their children will not end up on welfare, as well as decreasing the likelihood that these children so educated will become criminals. Serious Welfare reform would need to occur in America for it to not be anything other than a money sink.


As far as public healthcare is concerned I don't think the government has any grounds for engaging in that avenue of the public's life. I think the government should have special dispensation to use tax dollars in case of nation-wide medical emergency (ala a disease epidemic which requires wide-spread vaccination), but this is the purview of an agency like FEMA (which, yes, it too definitely needs some reform) and not a public pharmacy. I think hospitals should operate under a kind of unified system where insurance carriers will pay for procedures at any hosptial, and for those people without insurance their payment becomes a matter of state tax.


The amount of reform I would subject FEMA to would require more lines than I am allowed to put into one post. Suffice it to say FEMA requires much more hands on training, and should be more closely tied to other government organizations, especially DoD and EPA (I won't even mention Homeland Security because I'm still of the opinion that that is the job of DoD and that the chief of staff under the President is supposed to be the ultimate over-seer of both foreign and domestic intelligence on the US enemies. The military is swown to protect the US against all foes, both foreign and domestic afterall). Another problem is that FEMA from its outset was designed as a nuclear response organization. FEMA was not designed as an environmental disaster team, and Katrina exposed this flaw. New management simply isn't going to magically transform FEMA into a model organization.


Oligarchy is a fact of life when it comes to government. There just isn't anyway to get around this as we are yet aware of. Democracy tries to stem the abuses of Oligarchy, but it cannot get rid of it. Short of anarchy one cannot realistically expect to remove Oligarchy from government. All one can realistically hope to do is prevent major abuses and punish those who engage in abusive activity. The hope should be to normalize non-abusive behavior amongst elites, and this is why I would implement a top-down system of "vote of no confidence" by the people. This would make it so people like Blackwell who think they can defraud voters and get away with it would be subject to immediate removal from office by the people even if there existed no legal consequences for their actions. In order to keep this from becoming a partisan issue officials of the state and federal governments would have to require 80% or so vote of no confidence in order to remove them.

The big trick though would be stopping special interest groups from exerting "undue influence" over the members of government. Certainly the people if they believed a government official to be prone to influence or outright bribery, then they could vote him out, but this wouldn't stop the general trend of special interest groups forming the foundation for government policy making. Capping donations able to be made by special interest groups is almost certainly unconstitutional for the Federal government, and as long as one state existed where a type of cap wasn't implemented special interest groups would operate out of that state. Campaign finance is a mess.


It is easy to say a person would end gerrymandering, campaign corruption, and special interest group influence (especially religious interest groups) in the government, but it is quite another thing to actually deal with them.

I think the one big change I would make that might actually have a large effect on things is that I would make engaging in unconstitutional activity grounds for treason. That way government officials which engaged in unconstitutional behavior which clearly violated the tenets the people hold dear could be gravely punished. It would send a message to politicians that the people won't stand for them pissing on the constitution, and then there might actually be something that could be done about it.


Edit: I am curious, as a side-note, why you think the 5.56 should be discontinued from service DM? I mean the Israeli's have developed a fairly nifty little compact assault rifle, but currently the M4 is a decent weapon and in mass production. Or do you mean to simply use weapons which chamber a different caliber? If so, then what size? I mean I'm all for the 7.62 when it comes to stopping power; I'll take an M14 over an Ar15 in a fire fight just about any day of the week, but when it comes to wounding power the 5.56 does its job admirably. That thing gives lots of spin at 200 yards plus.

NT

If you had power, what would you change about the US government?


I'd abolish it.

Nope-I said most taxes. National sales tax is probably one of the few.



And still some left over. Much like PIE.Probably not. I can't give a source as this is from memory (I think the figures were joint state and federal), but I think income tax accounts for 50% of US gov income, 25% is sales tax, and the rest being corporation tax and other minor taxes like tobacco.

However, Military spending alone accounts for 33% percent of the budget, couple this with interest repayments on the national debt, the police, jails, the intelligence service and road maitenence. This brinngs the total to about 50% of the current budget. This is all with the current government budget producing a deficit. Ergo, your budget would screw over the country real fast.

He would make schools, police, and maybe even the military privately run. That's how he would pay for them. And, since when have felons cared about the law?

So... only people with money have protection under the law? How exactly does privatizing the police work? Say Sue gets raped. She recently got laid off from work, so she can't afford to pay the privatized police to catch the rapist. So he gets away?

Tell me, if YOU ruled the world, what inprovements/downgrades would YOU make? I would get rid of this stupid political correctness stuff. I would ban abortion except in unusual circumstances.

Rape presumably qualifies as unusual. What else?

I would legalize pot with high taxes.

I actually agree with that one. One of the people who doesn't smoke it but does agree. Shrug.

For anyone who wanted, I would take 'em to a lawless, free food-'n-drugs-droped-regularly island (it WOULD solve a lot of problems).

Ah. Bread and circuses for the masses, eh?

No person (INCLUDING ME) in a political position would get payed, they would just simply get modest lodgings, and simple food.

Ancient China tried this. Led to a high level of corruption as, not being paid for their jobs, they accepted bribes.

All people guilty of SERIOUS crimes would get dumped on an lawless island (kinda like the Brits did with Aulstralia) WITHOUT the free-food-and-drugs.

Long as you find one that's not previously inhabited. Incidentally, what's a serious crime.

I would legalize gun-ownership.

Sure. You know, whatever.

I would NOT allow gay-marrige (unless, they requisted a nation of their own, with their own laws, which I would give them).

Just out of curiousity, where are you getting all this land to give away?

I would cut welfare majorly.

Long as you provide enough to survive.

I rule as a benevolent dictator, allowing the people to take away my power if I got corrupt.

Except that at that point you would be corrupt and therefore not benevolent, and probably wouldn't give up your power.

I would hand it over to Britain - having killed Tony Blair, though. I'd also ban strange spellings like "Sidewalk" and "Gray" and "Candy" or "Pants" instead of trousers.:)

I would do away with the American Electoral College.
The President would be chosen soley by the popular vote.

First, completely clean house. Get rid of everybody currently in the upper branches of the government, except for the bare essential people needed to carry out everything till step five.

Second, increase the size of the police force, and decrease the millitary. Perhaps shift some of the millitary into law enforcement. Use my increased police force to crack down on crime, especially illegal gun ownership, though I'm gonna leave gun control laws about the same as they are now, at least to begin with.

Third, put some changes in place to bring about free healthcare. Create a system where unemployed are provided for, but at a lower standard than working people.

Fourth, make immigration and emigration much easier, so there's not really a need for illegal immigration at all.

Fifth, put into effect direct democracy, the only government officials, outside of the police and what's left of the millitary, being those necessary to administer the various votes.

I don't believe that it's possible to change this nation to make it a place I'd truly want to live. If any of you are familiar with Heinlein... my solution would be the same made by one Lazarus Long of the Howard Families. Leave. There's nothing good left here.

more school- the Asians are only stealing our rightful jobs cuz they go to school 8am-5pm Mon-Fri and 8am-noon on Sat.

more security on the Mexican borders... they are cutting the resourses down there!

more military training in schools- make it to where citizens don't have to rely on others to protect them from terrorists! :mp5:

I think that they should keep certain info. disclosed from the citezens cuz they are likely to go parinoid when they find out... the government's business is not necissarily the citizens!
I think this guy is either a racist idiot or a troll...

Firstly, I would like to state my fervent belief that gun enthusiasts are compensating for having tiny penises, or are otherwise seriously derranged. Protection of the well-meaning amendment is one thing - having some kind of fetishistic obsession with a machination of death is just sick.

Change the US Government... where to start? Firstly, I'd reform the actual layout of the states. State boundaries mostly reflect the political realities of the 17th century, and in any case their current layout only benefits the political elites of each particular state. I would propose reducing the number of states, and creating new ones that reflect actual American subcultures - instead of just reflecting the colonial process.

Next I would like to introduce some real federalism. As it stands at the moment all of the state governments are carbon-copy mini-mes of the federal government. Introduce some radically different governatorial systems into the states, a parliamentary government in New England, an absolute-majority governoral system in California, whatever, mix it up a bit. Give the American people a chance to chose what kind of government they want to live under. Also, these states should be given a much greater say in their governing. I propose a return to the days of the Articles of Confederation, when the Federal Government survived on handouts from the states. Provide a lot of further devolution within the states themselves, and give the devolved powers the choice to increase health/welfare/etc. spending in their community.

Reform the electoral system: a two-party system leads to an increasing narrowness to the centre ground and invariably leads to oligarchy. Each state electing congressmen from a regional list system would create a diverse lower chamber, whilst maintaining the current senatorial system would allow stability in that chamber. The tradition of weak party discipline should be maintained and increased, to such a point where congressmen have the freedom to speak only for their constituents, and not for an abstract party.

The system of electing the President should be reformed - instead of selecting a single name next to either the donkey or the elephant, the ballot should consist of a questionaire consisting of current issues and broader ideological queries. A wide range of candidates shall be encouraged to stand (all of whom must renounce party allegiences prior to the election), and answer truthfully a similar questionaire of their opinions. The candidate whose opinions most closely reflect that of the electorate will become president, while the runner up-shall become the vice president. In order to assure that a charismatic leader be selected, a condition upon nomination must be the successful completion of another executive elected position.

That's all I can think of for now... I may post later.

Obviously, what I would do and what I'd want to do differ. Here are some priorities:
- Personally, my big thing will always remain drug legalisation. I accept that's not going to happen tomorrow in the US, so I'd concentrate on helping drug addicts get rehabilitated, running needle exchange programs, increasing education on drugs programs, in school and the community, abolishing mandatory minimums, and pushing for legalisation of "soft" drugs.
- Promote rehabilitative justice over punitary justice. Not sure if you still have federal capital punishment - if so, impose a moratorium on it. As for states...I'd rather they stopped, but I'm not sure how much pressure I'd apply.
- No privatisation of SS. Push for universal affordable healthcare, though I'm no expert on how to achieve that. Not convinced about vouchers, but allow them on local levels. Generally opposed to private contractors in the military, so try to encourage their jobs to be taken back in-house.
- Get more involved in international law. Ratify Ottawa, recognise the ICC, that sort of thing. Do that, and I think the US gains the ability to apply real pressure on NPT abusers, to pressure for UN reforms, etc. It's not about reducing the US's sovereign powers; it's about accepting how international politics run.
- Heavily promote the establishment of viable energy sources. Increase alternative energy research, develop nuclear power, ensure security of foreign power sources.
- Undecided economically. I'd like to think the free market will do ok, but I do see a need for regulation. Take it case-by-case, I think.
- Leave gun control to the states.
- Strongly protect freedom of choice - including federal funds for abortion clinics. However, concentrate on promoting comprehensive sex ed, availability of contraception, etc. Legal, safe, rare.
- In terms of aid, concentrate on development aid. Limit US involvement in the IMF, and be prepared to help socialist, as well as capitalist, nations. End the Cuban embargo.
- Push free trade - but be willing to cut US farm subsidies, and allow developing nations the same leeway the US has exercised in the past.
- Unsure about IP rights. Would take under advisement.
- No idea about Iraq. Pull out to the greatest extent possible; try to help redevelop infrastructure. I accept the need for some military presence. Close Gitmo tomorrow; charge or release any other terror suspects.
- Try to balance the budget, without racking up taxes unfairly. I think an aim of government should be reducing the tax burden - but at the same time, funds have got to come from somewhere.
- Electoral reform. End gerrymandering, try to reach a compromise between campaign finance reform, and free speech. Corporations shouldn't be treated as individuals.

And yeah, other liberal shit.

If I could change one thing about the US government, I would impose an iron-clad rule that the government can never have any involvement in regulating or restricting ANY consentual activity regarding sex, sexual activity, sexual orientation, or sexual reproduction. In other words, the "debates" over gay marriage, sodomy, and abortion are now over for all time, and the government is forever barred from in any way restricting any of the above.

If I could change one thing about the US government, I would impose an iron-clad rule that the government can never have any involvement in regulating or restricting ANY consentual activity regarding sex, sexual activity, sexual orientation, or sexual reproduction. In other words, the "debates" over gay marriage, sodomy, and abortion are now over for all time, and the government is forever barred from in any way restricting any of the above.

They'll find a way around it. At the time the FF thought the 2nd A took care of regulations. The bureacracy found a way.

And if your thinking is implemented, someone will find a way around it.

Ooh, drug policy:

I would make it legal to buy and take drugs, but keep it illegal to sell them. If tobacco is anything to go by then the corporations will actively attempt to convert the entire nation into drug addicts. Whereas if the trade is illegal only a hard-core (/the occassional experimentals) will be able to get their hands on drugs.

I wouldn't commit myself to having a full nationalised rehab program for all drug addicts, but rather I would leave it to the charitable sector, with particularly effective charities being awarded generous grants.

Id get us out of the UN

My thoughts?

1) I'd clean out DC. Everyone in there, GTFO. We don't want you, nor do we need you. Applies ot the senate, white house, and anything else.

2) Establish myself as benevolent dictator

3) Abortion, gay/lesbian marriage, all that stuff is legalized. Period. Don't like it, GTFO.

3) Legalize marijuana with heavy taxes. Make it purchasable at your local drugstore. That was their origianl purpose anyways.

4) I'd re-establish the senate, with a very strict 2 term limits. People can vote them in, number depending on the state, senate to total 100. They can then moan and whine about things I need to change.

5) Establish better weapon control laws. Gun control will be worded simply, and in many cases open to most people. Background checks for criminal intent and/or crimes required. Knives (no switches) available for concealed carry with proper training, and (maybe) lisence.

6) Merge the NSA, the FBI, and the CIA into one branch. The FBI for overt domestics, NSA for covert international/domestic, and CIA for overt international.

The number of legal automatic weapons in the US is in the hundreds of thousands, and yet not a SINGLE one has ever been used in a crime. Never. The const. Gave us the right to own these 'terrible' weapons because the founders understood that the gov't wouldn't always be honest and that later generations might need tools to fight back and replace the gov't. There are TONS of legal uses for these weapons, including target shooting, hunting, and home defense.
There is very little regulation that happens BEFORE someone abuses something.

Automatic weapons were outlawed because they were the weapons of choice among the mob during prohibition days.

English becomes the national language.
Drugs legal for medical purposes (not for recreational use).
Gay marriage/adoption legal.
Get rid of Presidency in favor of Prime Ministership.
Make voting a part of declarations of war.
Age of suffrage, sexual consent: 16, age of drinking 18.
Outlaw nicotine and other drugs except for medical purposes.
Reduce taxes by cutting some funding to the military (yes, I suceed at being right wing and left wing at the same time!)
Libertarian economy except for taxes.

i would nationalise the oil and gas industy - the profits from that would pay for a national free health service, i would cut millitary spending by 60% and cun the nuclear arsenal down to 300 warheads and when the russians do the same i would drop it to 200. i would open all the borders and ban the "right to bear arms" crap

There is very little regulation that happens BEFORE someone abuses something.

Automatic weapons were outlawed because they were the weapons of choice among the mob during prohibition days.

And yet it still continues to happen today....


And then S/A came around....

"A well regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed." (the full 2nd amendment)

Since the establishment of a military, outside militias are not necessary. So while I am proud to have a strong military with whatever tools they need the rest of us should not have automatic weapons. If there were no automatic weapons cops would have a much easier time with gang violence and handling other situations that are difficult enough without unlimited numbers of bullets flying at them.

The emphasis above is my own, as it is the rationale for this amendment and requires careful attention. Should Everyman be armed a tyrranical government and corrupt leaders could never conquer the populace.

Our duty and right as citizens is abundantly clear:

"That to secure these Rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just Powers from the Consent of the Governed, that whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these Ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its Foundation on such Principles, and organizing its Powers in such Form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness."

and also:

"But when a long Train of Abuses and Usurpations, pursuing invariably the same Object, evinces a Design to reduce them under absolute Despotism, it is their Right, it is their Duty, to throw off such Government, and to provide new Guards for their future Security."

Pray tell how a citizenry can be expected to fulfill this obligation to safeguard freedom, and therefore a free state, without arms?

Take it from Ghandi:

"Among the many misdeeds of the British rule in India, history will look upon the Act of depriving a whole nation of arms, as the blackest.”

Castrensis

The emphasis above is my own, as it is the rationale for this amendment and requires careful attention. Should Everyman be armed a tyrranical government and corrupt leaders could never conquer the populace.

Our duty and right as citizens is abundantly clear:

"That to secure these Rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just Powers from the Consent of the Governed, that whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these Ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its Foundation on such Principles, and organizing its Powers in such Form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness."

and also:

"But when a long Train of Abuses and Usurpations, pursuing invariably the same Object, evinces a Design to reduce them under absolute Despotism, it is their Right, it is their Duty, to throw off such Government, and to provide new Guards for their future Security."

Pray tell how a citizenry can be expected to fulfill this obligation to safeguard freedom, and therefore a free state, without arms?

Take it from Ghandi:

"Among the many misdeeds of the British rule in India, history will look upon the Act of depriving a whole nation of arms, as the blackest.”

Castrensis


[Gymoor prime Canuck heaven george soros] Harsh words! [gymoor prime canuck heaven george soros]

Good post. There is almost no 'bad' reason to own a gun, whether it be a 'bad' gun or not.

I give the above post 9/10, only because you didn't include pictures of the founders and their words on civilian arms ownerhsip.

i would convert everyone to religeon, thereby eliminating any and all bad things.

Everything!

Sadly you cannot have a decently run military without tax revenues.

Sure you can just send your military to other countries and steal their money:mp5:

make something more like...

http://www.nationstates.net/cgi-bin/index.cgi/page=display_nation/nation=dissonant%20cognition

...of course.

:D

Interesting question.....
Well, I would do away with the FCC.
More security around the borders.
Get rid of 5.56 weapons (previously mentioned).
Put more funds into welfare, intelligence and defense.
Put a tariff on all goods made by childlabor.
Have a special task force to find corrupt politicians.
Investigate the oil companies for possible schemes.
Make education more of a State issue rather then a Federal issue, with some regulation.
Have a complete overhaul of U.S. foreign policy.(Actually helping people when it benefits us or not).
Launch nuclear waste into space.
Put more funding into renewable, clean energy resource.
More research into asteroid threat.
Fix FEMA.

Just a simple change, really. I would declassify and make available to the public all currently classified material.

:)

[Gymoor prime Canuck heaven george soros] Harsh words! [gymoor prime canuck heaven george soros]

Good post. There is almost no 'bad' reason to own a gun, whether it be a 'bad' gun or not.

I give the above post 9/10, only because you didn't include pictures of the founders and their words on civilian arms ownerhsip.

Couldn't figure out how to insert images in the post, but have provided links to hosted images.

http://img45.imageshack.us/img45/6149/jeffersonthomast0rc.jpg
Jefferson

"I learn with great concern that [one] portion of our frontier so interesting, so important, and so exposed, should be so entirely unprovided with common fire-arms. I did not suppose any part of the United States so destitute of what is considered as among the first necessaries of a farm house." Letter to Jacob J. Brown (1808)

"Laws that forbid the carrying of arms disarm only those who are neither inclined nor determined to commit crimes. Such laws make things worse for the assaulted and better for the assailants; they serve rather to encourage than to prevent homicides, for an unarmed man may be attacked with greater confidence than an armed man."

"The constitutions of most of our States assert that all power is inherent in the people; that... it is their right and duty to be at all times armed." to John Cartwright, 1824

"No free man shall ever be debarred the use of arms."
Thomas Jefferson, Proposed Virginia Constitution, 1776

"None but an armed nation can dispense with a standing army. To keep ours armed and disciplined is therefore at all times important." 1803

"God forbid we should ever be twenty years without such a rebellion.... And what country can preserve its liberties, if its rulers are not warned from time to time, that this people preserve the spirit of resistance? Let them take arms.... The tree of liberty must be refreshed from time to time with the blood of patriots and tyrants." in letter to William S. Smith, 1787

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Samuel Adams

"Among the natural rights of the colonists are these: first, a right to life, secondly to liberty, thirdly to property; together with the right to defend them in the best manner they can."

"...It is always dangerous to the liberties of the people to have an army stationed among them, over which they have no control...The Militia is composed of free Citizens. There is therefore no danger of their making use of their power to the destruction of their own Rights, or suffering others to invade them."

"The said Constitution [shall] be never construed to authorize Congress to infringe the just liberty of the press, or the rights of conscience; or to prevent the people of the United States, who are peaceable citizens, from keeping their own arms." U.S. Constitution ratification convention, 1788

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James Madison

"(The Constitution preserves) the advantage of being armed which Americans possess over the people of almost every other nation...(where) the governments are afraid to trust the people with arms." The Federalist, Number 46

"The highest number to which, according to the best computation, a standing army can be carried in any country, does not exceed one hundredth part of the whole number of souls; or one twenty-fifth part of the number able to bear arms. This proportion would not yield, in the United States, an army of more than twenty-five or thirty thousand men. To these would be opposed a militia amounting to near half a million of citizens with arms in their hands, officered by men chosen from among themselves, fighting for their common liberties, and united and conducted by governments possessing their affections and confidence. It may well be doubted, whether a militia thus circumstanced could ever be conquered by such a proportion of regular troops." The Federalist, Number 46, January 29, 1788

"The right of the people to keep and bear arms shall not be infringed; a well armed, and well regulated militia being the best security of a free country: but no person religiously scrupulous of bearing arms, shall be compelled to render military service in person." Proposed Amendments to the Constitution June 8, 1789

"Suppose that we let a regular army, fully equal to the resources of the country, be formed; and let it be entirely at the devotion of the federal: still it would not be going to far to say that the State governments with the people at their side would be able to repel the danger...half a million citizens with arms in their hands"

"A well regulated militia, composed of the body of the people, trained to arms, is the best and most natural defense of a free country."

http://img224.imageshack.us/img224/3088/hamiltonalexandert0kj.jpg
Alexander Hamilton

"If the representatives of the people betray their constituents, there is no recourse left but in the exertion of that original right of self-defense which is paramount to all positive forms of government." Federalist #28

"The best we can hope for concerning the people at large, is that they be properly armed."

"...but if circumstances should at any time oblige the government to form an army of any magnitude, that army can never be formidable to the liberties of the people, while there is a large body of citizens, little if at all inferior to them in discipline and use of arms, who stand ready to defend their rights..." Federalist #29

http://img224.imageshack.us/img224/8906/washingtonmediumt7su.jpg
George Washington

"A free people ought not only to be armed and disciplined, but they should have sufficient arms and ammunition to maintain a status of independence from any who might attempt to abuse them, which would include their own government."

http://img224.imageshack.us/img224/4030/mason5op.gif
George Mason
"Father of the Bill of Rights"

"That a well-regulated militia, composed of the body of the people, trained to arms, is the proper, natural and safe defense of a free state; that standing armies, in time of peace, should be avoided as dangerous to liberty; and that, in all cases, the military should be under strict subordination to, and governed by, the civil power."
Virginia Declaration of Rights 13 (June 12, 1776), drafted by George Mason

"I ask sir, what is the militia? It is the whole body of the people except for a few public officials. To disarm the people is the best and most effectual way to enslave them..."


http://img106.imageshack.us/img106/1247/franklinbent8ep.jpg
Ben

"They that can give up essential liberty to obtain a little temporary safety deserve neither liberty nor safety." Historical Review of Pennsylvania, 1759

http://img227.imageshack.us/img227/2742/phenryportrait4ww.jpg
Patrick Henry

"Guard with jealous attention the public liberty. Suspect everyone who approaches that jewel. Unfortunately, nothing will preserve it but downright force. When you give up that force, you are ruined." Virginia's U.S. Constitution Ratification Convention

"Have we the means of resisting disciplined armies, when our only defense, the militia is put in the hands of Congress?" 3 Elliot Debates 48.

"The great object is that every man be armed. Everyone who is able may have a gun."

"Are we at least brought to such a humiliating and debasing degradation, that we cannot be trusted with arms for our own defense? Where is the difference between having our arms in our possession and under our own direction, and having them under the management of Congress? If our defense be the real object of having those arms, in whose hands can they be trusted with more propriety, or equal safety to us, as in our own hands?" 3 Elliot Debates 168-169.

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Thomas Paine

"...[A]rms discourage and keep the invader and plunderer in awe, and preserve order in the world as well as property...Horrid mischief would ensue were the law-abiding deprived of the use of them." Thoughts On Defensive War, 1775

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Elbridge Gerry

"Whenever governments mean to invade the rights and liberties of the people, they always attempt to destroy the militia, in order to raise an army upon their ruins." Rep. Elbridge Gerry of Massachusetts

A good idea, thanks.

Castrensis

Turn all goverment spending to the people of America being less stupid. Maybe then they can figure out a working government for themselves...

The US Government must be more considerate of its allies. That means us in Europe!

Dump welfare
Dump SS
Dump healthcare

Make enforcement/Military/Border security main gov't issue

get rid of Income tax

Start practicing mexican border security

Start a mandatory 2/4/6/8/career Military service

Get rid of the 5.56 in the services

Get rid of Most gun control

get rid of most taxes

Etc
So basically ensure that the government is there not to defend the interests of the majority of its citizens, but only the elite?

Your proposal to get rid of income taxes is ridiculous. From your posting you seem to be a great advocate of a big government, and your military proposals would be expensive.

Getting rid of public education, public transport and mandatory military service would destroy the economy. Mandatory militeay service is good, but not for the lengths of time you propose. Look at the USA's population. What use would it have for so many troops?

I can't believe that you think that your proposals would actually make life better.

Smaller gov't is better...period.
You don't really believe that. Your idea of a small government seems to include the ability to invade and take over countries halfway across the world. That's not a small government, that's a BIG government.

You mean like right now? There are some corporations that would be able to run a school very cost efficiently and turn out good students.
History has proven you wrong. Just give it up now. But don't give up trying to improve the public school system. The US system is not very good, but the best school systems in the world are public, and the US could be just as good as them.

So basically ensure that the government is there not to defend the interests of the majority of its citizens, but only the elite?

No, take the power away from the government, give it to the people. Make people responsible for their liberty...after all, the government derives power from the people; a government of the people, not above.

Your proposal to get rid of income taxes is ridiculous. From your posting you seem to be a great advocate of a big government, and your military proposals would be expensive.

I'm not sure I understand...even a cursory examination of his proposals shows he's cutting government's influence in our lives and refocusing the energies towards the defense of the nation, rather than the policing of the populace. Government's purpose is to preserve the intrinsic liberties of a people from whom it derives power and nothing more.

Still, there was no income tax prior to 1913 just as there was no Federal Reserve Bank. Abolish the Federal Reserve Bank, restore the integrity of the dollar, do away with the income tax (whose use is to pay back our government's debt to the FRB), remain faithful to the Constitution.


Mandatory militeay service is good, but not for the lengths of time you propose. Look at the USA's population. What use would it have for so many troops?

A populace of properly trained free men whose only allegiance is to themselves (i.e. discharged) and the preservation of their natural rights is the best safeguard against tyranny.

Castrensis

The US Government must be more considerate of its allies. That means us in Europe!

You need to mail me a bag of screen wipes because I just coughed up my dinner.

With allies like the French who NEEDS enemies?

Couldn't figure out how to insert images in the post, but have provided links to hosted images.

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Jefferson

"I learn with great concern that [one] portion of our frontier so interesting, so important, and so exposed, should be so entirely unprovided with common fire-arms. I did not suppose any part of the United States so destitute of what is considered as among the first necessaries of a farm house." Letter to Jacob J. Brown (1808)

"Laws that forbid the carrying of arms disarm only those who are neither inclined nor determined to commit crimes. Such laws make things worse for the assaulted and better for the assailants; they serve rather to encourage than to prevent homicides, for an unarmed man may be attacked with greater confidence than an armed man."

"The constitutions of most of our States assert that all power is inherent in the people; that... it is their right and duty to be at all times armed." to John Cartwright, 1824

"No free man shall ever be debarred the use of arms."
Thomas Jefferson, Proposed Virginia Constitution, 1776

"None but an armed nation can dispense with a standing army. To keep ours armed and disciplined is therefore at all times important." 1803

"God forbid we should ever be twenty years without such a rebellion.... And what country can preserve its liberties, if its rulers are not warned from time to time, that this people preserve the spirit of resistance? Let them take arms.... The tree of liberty must be refreshed from time to time with the blood of patriots and tyrants." in letter to William S. Smith, 1787

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Samuel Adams

"Among the natural rights of the colonists are these: first, a right to life, secondly to liberty, thirdly to property; together with the right to defend them in the best manner they can."

"...It is always dangerous to the liberties of the people to have an army stationed among them, over which they have no control...The Militia is composed of free Citizens. There is therefore no danger of their making use of their power to the destruction of their own Rights, or suffering others to invade them."

"The said Constitution [shall] be never construed to authorize Congress to infringe the just liberty of the press, or the rights of conscience; or to prevent the people of the United States, who are peaceable citizens, from keeping their own arms." U.S. Constitution ratification convention, 1788

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James Madison

"(The Constitution preserves) the advantage of being armed which Americans possess over the people of almost every other nation...(where) the governments are afraid to trust the people with arms." The Federalist, Number 46

"The highest number to which, according to the best computation, a standing army can be carried in any country, does not exceed one hundredth part of the whole number of souls; or one twenty-fifth part of the number able to bear arms. This proportion would not yield, in the United States, an army of more than twenty-five or thirty thousand men. To these would be opposed a militia amounting to near half a million of citizens with arms in their hands, officered by men chosen from among themselves, fighting for their common liberties, and united and conducted by governments possessing their affections and confidence. It may well be doubted, whether a militia thus circumstanced could ever be conquered by such a proportion of regular troops." The Federalist, Number 46, January 29, 1788

"The right of the people to keep and bear arms shall not be infringed; a well armed, and well regulated militia being the best security of a free country: but no person religiously scrupulous of bearing arms, shall be compelled to render military service in person." Proposed Amendments to the Constitution June 8, 1789

"Suppose that we let a regular army, fully equal to the resources of the country, be formed; and let it be entirely at the devotion of the federal: still it would not be going to far to say that the State governments with the people at their side would be able to repel the danger...half a million citizens with arms in their hands"

"A well regulated militia, composed of the body of the people, trained to arms, is the best and most natural defense of a free country."

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Alexander Hamilton

"If the representatives of the people betray their constituents, there is no recourse left but in the exertion of that original right of self-defense which is paramount to all positive forms of government." Federalist #28

"The best we can hope for concerning the people at large, is that they be properly armed."

"...but if circumstances should at any time oblige the government to form an army of any magnitude, that army can never be formidable to the liberties of the people, while there is a large body of citizens, little if at all inferior to them in discipline and use of arms, who stand ready to defend their rights..." Federalist #29

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George Washington

"A free people ought not only to be armed and disciplined, but they should have sufficient arms and ammunition to maintain a status of independence from any who might attempt to abuse them, which would include their own government."

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George Mason
"Father of the Bill of Rights"

"That a well-regulated militia, composed of the body of the people, trained to arms, is the proper, natural and safe defense of a free state; that standing armies, in time of peace, should be avoided as dangerous to liberty; and that, in all cases, the military should be under strict subordination to, and governed by, the civil power."
Virginia Declaration of Rights 13 (June 12, 1776), drafted by George Mason

"I ask sir, what is the militia? It is the whole body of the people except for a few public officials. To disarm the people is the best and most effectual way to enslave them..."


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Ben

"They that can give up essential liberty to obtain a little temporary safety deserve neither liberty nor safety." Historical Review of Pennsylvania, 1759

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Patrick Henry

"Guard with jealous attention the public liberty. Suspect everyone who approaches that jewel. Unfortunately, nothing will preserve it but downright force. When you give up that force, you are ruined." Virginia's U.S. Constitution Ratification Convention

"Have we the means of resisting disciplined armies, when our only defense, the militia is put in the hands of Congress?" 3 Elliot Debates 48.

"The great object is that every man be armed. Everyone who is able may have a gun."

"Are we at least brought to such a humiliating and debasing degradation, that we cannot be trusted with arms for our own defense? Where is the difference between having our arms in our possession and under our own direction, and having them under the management of Congress? If our defense be the real object of having those arms, in whose hands can they be trusted with more propriety, or equal safety to us, as in our own hands?" 3 Elliot Debates 168-169.

http://img227.imageshack.us/img227/8561/painethomast8me.jpg
Thomas Paine

"...[A]rms discourage and keep the invader and plunderer in awe, and preserve order in the world as well as property...Horrid mischief would ensue were the law-abiding deprived of the use of them." Thoughts On Defensive War, 1775

http://img90.imageshack.us/img90/2057/gerry1xa.gif
Elbridge Gerry

"Whenever governments mean to invade the rights and liberties of the people, they always attempt to destroy the militia, in order to raise an army upon their ruins." Rep. Elbridge Gerry of Massachusetts

A good idea, thanks.

Castrensis

I give you a 10/10. Mucho impresso.

:gundge: :mp5: :sniper:

So basically ensure that the government is there not to defend the interests of the majority of its citizens, but only the elite?

Your proposal to get rid of income taxes is ridiculous. From your posting you seem to be a great advocate of a big government, and your military proposals would be expensive.

Getting rid of public education, public transport and mandatory military service would destroy the economy. Mandatory militeay service is good, but not for the lengths of time you propose. Look at the USA's population. What use would it have for so many troops?

I can't believe that you think that your proposals would actually make life better.


You don't really believe that. Your idea of a small government seems to include the ability to invade and take over countries halfway across the world. That's not a small government, that's a BIG government.


History has proven you wrong. Just give it up now. But don't give up trying to improve the public school system. The US system is not very good, but the best school systems in the world are public, and the US could be just as good as them.

Small gov't is a gov't that's only prime concern is nation defense and law&order. The ONLY place that government needs to be big is defense. The ONLY place.

Having the ability to conquer and invade countries across the world comes in handy. Pearl Harbor. 9/11. WTC1.

I don't advocate big gov't. Not at all. And with getting rid of 3/4 of the gov't and all social programs, you COULD get rid of the income tax. National sales tax buddy!

Yes, we could use those troops. For what? Border security. American Muscle. War. To name a few.

Perhaps, even better, adopt a Starship trooper style gov't stripped of social welfare....

What would I do to change the US government?

Reform it utterly. Change it from a two-party system to a multi-party system, with proportional representation.

Eliminate campaign financing from corporations and lobby groups, and cap individual donations at $5,000 or so.

Eliminate the ability to add pork barrel riders to bills. If a proposed amendment has nothing to do with the original bill (such as rewording of an original clause etc), fuggedaboutit.

Basically, try to make the elected representatives accountable to the people who elected them, instead of bought out by loud voices with money.

And oh yeah, ditch the electoral college.

..I'd have it live up to the ideals it espouses, both domestically and internationally.

That's all..

..but it seems so much.

Those aren't legally owned Automatic weapons, and most of the guns that end up in crimes (The few committed using) aren't FA. They may look like it, but are not.

The only crimes committed AFAIK w/ FA weapons are the Hollywood shootout and a case in NJ where a Police officer shot his neighbor with a SWAT issue MP5. There are more, I guess such as the Bonny and clyde robberies, but those were before the NFA of 1934 and so long ago.

Machine guns have been recovered in crimes, rarely. If you don't gunsmithing REALLY well and try to convert it to fire FA, you'll end up getting the gun to explode in your face via firing out of battery. Not good when bolt fragments go through your skull.
Did I ask you for a source for this information? Yes, I did.

Did you provide a source for this information? No, you did not.

So you have not answered my question, have you?

<snip>
I snipped all the stuff at the beginning because it was pointless and irrelevant.

Keeping Ghetto Goblins from hunting your family
RACISM. Thanks for playing. 'Bye.

<snip>
I snipped all the crap at the end because...well, because it was crap.

I'd start a big social experiment in Anarchism: Disolve one part of government after the other, until there is none left. Then watch what happens.

To post without actually reading anything but the OP and Muravyets's latest cutting remarks out of context, I would make it mine. And completely overhaul the system to suit my empire.
*cowers in fear of Muravyets*

I'd start a big social experiment in Anarchism: Disolve one part of government after the other, until there is none left. Then watch what happens.
And laugh all the while.:D

To post without actually reading anything but the OP and Muravyets's latest cutting remarks out of context, I would make it mine. And completely overhaul the system to suit my empire.
*cowers in fear of Muravyets*
Yeah, you better cower. *looks in closet for bull whip*

'Cause I'll get medieval on your ass, beeyotch. *rummages in closet*

You know I can. *rummage, rummage*

I'll so incredibly kick your butt. *rummage*

Don't go anywhere. *rummage -- goddammit*

Look, why don't you get yourself a coffee or something, and, um, I'll be with you shortly, okay?

:D

I would blackmail whoever I need to in order to make the United States into a Democracy In Name Only.

I'd be the Invisible Hand that dictates policy from the shadows - no cameras, no publicity. An obscure public role no one asks questions about. Plenty of security
hired from sources I trust.

For the public it looks like business as usual. There are still be the House and Senate, theres still a Supreme Court and Executive Branch.

I'd be silently in control.

Three major policies from me, gradually insinuating through The System:

1) The United States will remove all of its permanant military presence from everywhere except Continental U.S, Alaska and Hawaii. No bases in Asia, Europe or the Middle East. Stop stopguarding U.S interests at the tip of a missile.

2) Slowly and surely drive the U.S in a pre-World World I isolationist foreign policy mind set. Trade, Diplomatic Relations, Home Defense. Nothing else.

3) When that is complete - dissolve the United States into loose 3 State soverign nations. Take steps to ensure a new Civil War occurs again.

I would blackmail whoever I need to in order to make the United States into a Democracy In Name Only.

I'd be the Invisible Hand that dictates policy from the shadows - no cameras, no publicity. An obscure public role no one asks questions about. Plenty of security
hired from sources I trust.

For the public it looks like business as usual. There are still be the House and Senate, theres still a Supreme Court and Executive Branch.

I'd be silently in control.

Three major policies from me, gradually insinuating through The System:

1) The United States will remove all of its permanant military presence from everywhere except Continental U.S, Alaska and Hawaii. No bases in Asia, Europe or the Middle East. Stop stopguarding U.S interests at the tip of a missile.

2) Slowly and surely drive the U.S in a pre-World World I isolationist foreign policy mind set. Trade, Diplomatic Relations, Home Defense. Nothing else.

3) When that is complete - dissolve the United States into loose 3 State soverign nations. Take steps to ensure a new Civil War occurs again.
You forgot the step where you place a huge bet on the outcome with your British bookie.

I would:

1. Abolish the FCC and all (or almost all) censorship laws
2. Repeal all gun control laws, and make it where people could own almost any non-chemical/nuclear/biological weapon they wished, except for military vehicles
3. Abolish all Cabinet-level departments except Defense (which would be broken up into the Department of War and Department of the Navy) and State
4. Introduce a 100% gold standard
5. Abolish unions, fractional reserve banking, affirmative action, subsidies to business, tariffs, funding for internal improvements, minimum wage, price controls, business regulations, and most other laws detrimental to business
6. Completely secularize the federal government
7. Establish tighter border security
8. Get rid of the FDA
9. Get rid of all government health care and social welfare programs
10. Completely privatize transportation, postal service, and just about everything else except police, the courts, and the military
11. Withdraw from every alliance we are currently in, return all our troops home from abroad, sign non-aggression pacts and trade agreements with every nation, and then pursue a neutral, non-aligned, pro-peace foreign policy, emphasizing diplomacy first, commerce with all, and entangling alliances with none
12. Ban the use, production, and sale of land mines
13. Legalize all recreational drugs
14. Appeal all laws that regulate or legislate morality, and let the states decide their own laws on such issues
15. Completely privatize and de-politicize education
16. Eliminate government spending in almost all areas except defense, which would be reduced to a minimum, so our military would only be strong enough to adequately provide for national defense, but no stronger
17. Abolish the income tax. Instead of taxing citizens directly, the states would be taxed, in proportion to their population. Most forms of taxation would be abolished.
18. Repeal the 17th Amendment and the 14th Amendment and revive federalism
19. Dramatically restrict the powers of the CIA and FBI and limit their roles to intelligence gathering only, not meddling in other countries' affairs, violating citizens' rights, etc.
20. Protect private property rights more vehemently than ever before
21. Anything else I may have forgotten which would help scale back the federal Leviathan

Purge everything that already exists. Better to start anew IMO. We can always clone the stuff that worked.

MMMkay, so I would first import a new constitution. The current US Consitution lacks some very important items (right to privacy) while including stupid items (right to guns). In all likelyhood, the constitution would be a rip-off of the Canadian Constitution with some minor chages (removal of God as the Supreme Ruler part, remove the notwithstanding clause, make it so the govt cannot judge based on sexual orientation, remove official languages). I would then rename the country, because the United States of America is pretty lame. Citizens would submit name ideas, I would narrow the list to my favorites, then hold a referendum.

Then I would remake the political structure, significantly. At the Federal level, I would create a small, non-elected leadership. It would be responsible for the military, law and order, nationalized industries, creating a few economic standards and public works projects.

The federal goverment would not directly tax the citizens. It would instead, tax the states. The each state would pay a flat tax based on the average income of the state's citizens. If the taxation rate moves by more than a multiple of 2.5% from the original rate, the taxation rate must be voted upon by the states (each state's govt votes either for or against, simple majority). The change doesn't have to take place within a year for the vote to be needed, as long as the rate is pushed more than 2.5% (or 5%, 7.5% etc) away from the first tax rate set, a state vote will be needed.

The Federal Government would have control over the military internationally and can use it willy-nilly. If the states vote (or a referendum occurs) and more than 2/3 of the states (or people) favor stopping the mission, the mission will have to be abandoned within 30 days. To use the military domestically, the Feds would need to have the approval of 7-10 (dunno the exact number, assuming I keep 50 states) states. The states themselves can use the military internationally if A) there are spare troops aren't busy with anything else B) they get the approval of 7-10 states C) they don't fight against the troops in the Federal Missions. To use the military in its own borders, the state must match A and C from before, but need the approval 14-20 states or convince the Feds to take up the mission. States cannot use the military against other states.

Like Canada, myUSA would have one police force. They would be responsible for all law enforcement at the Federal, State and Municpal levels. There would be a division of this force which would deal with border security. A single intellegence agency would be created. All courts would be operated by the Feds.

The Feds would have a few national industries to control. Adding/removing an industry to/from the Feds control requires a supermajority (2/3, state or referendum). The original national industries would be health, power, water, education and internet.

There would also be a couple economic standards the Feds control. There would be a few federal economic laws such as allowing unions, minimum maternity leave, etc. The laws would try to cover just the bare nessecities. The Feds would also be able to set economic tariffs. Originally, only products made with child and/or slave labour would be tariffed.

If the Federal Government has both no debt and leftover income, it would be used to create a few Public Works Projects (PWP). The PWP's would idealy be many small projects to improve myUSA. Projects could range from planting trees, to repairing a road, to building a group shelter for the homeless. If there is significantly more money left over than expected larger projects can be started, but should not expect funds next year. PWP will not be considered when the Federal tax rate is set; they will be funded by the government overshooting its financial need.

With the exceptions posted above, the state governments would have complete control of their states. If one state wanted to make Russian its official language, or make ugly a crime, it would be able to.

It would be law to Rape Posi.

It would be law to Rape Posi.
It's not rape if I'm willing.;)

Just too piss of all the right wingers of the whole nation I would ban ALL guns and finally get around to making the US SECULAR which I'm sorry to tell you, hasn't been done yet. Oh and probabally have all the Republicans of the whole nation 'replaced' in Mexico because I know you like it so much ;)

I'd ban the actually gouvernment to.... Mexico, aaaaand... Guido Westerwelle would become President, for a liberal America :D

I'd make it possible for citizens over the age of 18 to get a Cannabis Consumer's License.

The license would allow them to grow a reasonable amount of marijuana for their own consumption, with a few provisions.

1. The plants would have to be grow in a secure location, inside a house or locked outbuilding.

2. Marijuana could not be bought or sold. Licensees would be allowed to trade amongst themselves.

3. Distribution to minors or non-licensees would be strictly prohibited.

4. Licensees could not be employed in any occupation where they could endanger the public. Sorry, but there's no way to do a sobriety test for cannabis.

5. Any conviction for a violation of these rules, DUI, or felony would result in the immediate loss of license.

If you had power, what would you change about the US government?

Discontinue the current policy trend as "world police". No more unnecessary government spending. Remove laws that "create" criminal classes, drug prohibition in general, as well as other senseless or "feel-good" laws that don't really do any good.

1. Dis-establish the Electoral College.
2. Outlaw the possession of munitions by anyone not ordered to hold them by the Military

I would remove the 17th amendment that allows for popular election os senators. There needs to be at least part of the legislature insulated from lobbies and ignorance and passions of voters. A group that can think about what is best for all of the nation over the long term rather than the next election.
this is maybe the most terrifying thing i've ever read. you're suggesting we find a group of people "smarter" than us and make them unaccountable rulers over us. are we to blindly assume they will act selflessly and in our interest at all times?

this is maybe the most terrifying thing i've ever read. you're suggesting we find a group of people "smarter" than us and make them unaccountable rulers over us. are we to blindly assume they will act selflessly and in our interest at all times?


This sounds like a review of X-men.

Mind you, I'd vote to 'liminate X-men without the slightest delay!

Yeah, you better cower. *looks in closet for bull whip*

'Cause I'll get medieval on your ass, beeyotch. *rummages in closet*

You know I can. *rummage, rummage*

I'll so incredibly kick your butt. *rummage*

Don't go anywhere. *rummage -- goddammit*

Look, why don't you get yourself a coffee or something, and, um, I'll be with you shortly, okay?

:D
Mmm, now she's teasing me with da whip.;) I don't like coffee...and I left. But I'm back now and I'll be back later.

this is maybe the most terrifying thing i've ever read. you're suggesting we find a group of people "smarter" than us and make them unaccountable rulers over us. are we to blindly assume they will act selflessly and in our interest at all times?
What the hell do you think they do in a Democracy?

What the hell do you think they do in a Democracy?
Make it ripe for collapse that I might triumph more easily?:p

Make it ripe for collapse that I might triumph more easily?:p
No, I was thinking they act selflessly and in our interest at all times. But then,I'm an idiot.

Does this mean my ideas are too bulletproof to be argued with? Or that they are too profondly stupid to deserve to be quoted?

If I were in power, I would tax the wealthy, give support to the poor and unemployed, improve diplomatic relations with other countries, go to war with the countries that actually supported terrorism, make evacuations in the event of a disaster mandatory, and encourage more dependency on other types of fuels rather than just oil... but that's just me.

give it over to the native americans and see if they can sort it out

Not allow anyone outside law enforcment or the military to own a gun , then exacute everyone cought with one becouse they would be criminals .

Get them to approve plans for orbital defence satelites , not facing down but up and out . Then stop them broadcasting signals to any potential hostile aliens but have them listern very carefully .

get them to test chemical weapons on klu klux klan meetings .

Focus on creating environmentally freindly means of generating power and travelling like getting the population of texus to ran in giant hampster wheels

Get them to relise that while security and freedom are good , the vast majority of anti american feeling comes from things they have themselves caused ( and no i do not belive there is any excuse for what terrorists did on september the 11th )

Get them to aid the less develped nations and write off all debts (as i would have my own british gov do) thus proving to the world that America is basacally a nation of good people

Nuke france :eek:

I would make a deal with the world.

I would say, "Ok world, we'll try it your way"

Basically, we would be isolationist politically. We would withdraw from most treaties, including the UN. We would withdraw from all our foreign bases, and adopt a policy of Non-interventionism.

I would expand the Air Force, while cutting the Army and Navy. I would also expand our ICBM and Nuclear Warhead production.

As far as terrorism goes, i would make an offer to the world. I would grant all terrorists amnesty. And I would issue a warning to the nations of the world. If there is another terrorist attack on the US, we will be angry. And nation that had been aiding the Terrorists in any way will cease to exist.

Any nation that currently has, in it's possession, the Terrorists that attacked the US, will have 24 hours to turn them over to us. if they do not, one city will disappear every day until they do.

this is maybe the most terrifying thing i've ever read. you're suggesting we find a group of people "smarter" than us and make them unaccountable rulers over us. are we to blindly assume they will act selflessly and in our interest at all times?
It works that way all of the time. We elect people who appoint people to do the job. Take the President's executive officers for instance.

For about 150 years the senate was appointed by the state legislatures. They didn't spend their time collecting money (getting paid off) to run for election. They didn't bend over for lobbyists. They answered to the states. Because of this insulation they were able to make long term decisions without the passions of short term emotions. If they went too far off the beam the states would replace them. Basically that's the way the courts work without the control of the state legislatures.

The 17th amendment has opened the door for emotional government rather than government of logic and long term vision. Name ONE Statesman out of the hundred.

In social studies this year I learned that the Founders said that if the government got too corrupt, the citizens could go ahead and make another one. So...

1. Get rid of the old Senators, and get some new people in there. Also, change everyone in the higher levels. :cool:

2. Outlaw lobbying and special interest groups. :mp5:

3. Legalize gay marriage.:fluffle:

4. Legalize abortion, but put restrictions on it. It should only be for rape, the mother's/child's life, birth defects, and very very young girls who didn't know what they were doing.

5. Totally revamp the edumacation system (abolish standardized testing in all states, better sex education, better textbooks and funding, equality for all) :headbang:

6. Make it legal to practice any religion, without discrimination of any type.

7. Fix FEMA, and get it out of Homeland Secuirty. Why is it there anyways?:confused:

8. Have a smaller government, that is more "involved" with the people.

9. Universal healthcare, of course.

10. Dismantle Hollywood so it stops brainwashing teenagers.:sniper:

11. Dismantle SS. It's dying anyways, it's better to just kill it now.

No, I was thinking they act selflessly and in our interest at all times. But then,I'm an idiot.
You certainly are....:p

Well, there's the usual libertarian socialist stuff, but I've repeated that a million times on these threads, and I'm feeling lazy today.

So I'll just say that I would grant residents of Washington DC full democratic rights, and let the rest remain implied by my political compass scores.

In social studies this year I learned that the Founders said that if the government got too corrupt, the citizens could go ahead and make another one. So...

1. Get rid of the old Senators, and get some new people in there.

2. Outlaw lobbying and special interest groups.

3. Legalize gay marriage.

4. Legalize abortion, but put restrictions on it. It should only be for rape, the mother's/child's life, birth defects, and very very young girls who didn't know what they were doing.

5. Totally revamp the edumacation system (abolish standardized testing in all states, better sex education, better textbooks and funding, equality for all)

6. Make it legal to practice any religion, without discrimination of any type.

7. Get rid of conservatives (not necessarily Republicans, there is a difference)

8. Give the citizens the right to drop kick the living crap out of any state government that doesn't comply.

9. Drop kick the living crap out of any state that doesn't comply myself.

10. Drop kick Hollywood for the heck of it. :D That's what they get for brainwashing teenagers!


Several years ago while listening to lectures on my way towards gaining a sociology degree I learned that:

Senators were supposed to be old, smart guys who could observe long term political trends and set policy accordingly instead of, like the House, respond to the whims and passions of the public.

Out-lawing special interest groups and lobbying would shut-down American democracy as virtually no one except special interest groups actually communicates with their representatives and lobbying is one of the few ways for the representatives to fund those campaigns they make.

Fantastic.

Pretty much word for word according to most states laws. And might I add that if someone did make this change at the federal level I would be the first American to challenge the new law on constitutional grounds since it violates the 10th amendment to the constitution.

Good ideas for the most part. But extra funding has to come from some where...

Revolutions don't work the way you might think they do. "Drop-kicking" governments simply don't accomplish anything in the long term. People with money and power don't just disappear when you "officially" remove them from office. The next government which gets instituted is still going to need people to run the show, and those people who are qualified to do so... happen to be the people you ousted from office.

This is why Jefferson advocated a state of near constent revolution; new ideas would come to the forefront quickly and individual corruption would not be allowed to become institutionalized.





And on a separate note, for those of you who advocated repealing the 17th amendment: there is a reason why the constitution was amended in the first place. Many states were being denied a presence in the senate because state legislatures could not agree on who would become senator. Would you have us return to state where certain States are being disenfranchised?


And to all you "Federalists:" Government needs to be responsible for more than just physical safety; it also needs to be concerned with physical health. Removal of EPA or FDA is simply license to return to a time when corporations could get away with selling poison to you and no one could do anything about it. Its not murder since the product was purchased legally and consumed as a matter of personal use. I like to think that too much government is a bad idea, license to create an intellectually lazy public, but too little government is also a bad idea. I, for one, do not want to have to keep abreast of all the various industrial chemicals which could poison me and that I would have to test for in order to be assured my safe consumption of a product.

NT

Several years ago while listening to lectures on my way towards gaining a sociology degree I learned that:

Senators were supposed to be old, smart guys who could observe long term political trends and set policy accordingly instead of, like the House, respond to the whims and passions of the public.

Out-lawing special interest groups and lobbying would shut-down American democracy as virtually no one except special interest groups actually communicates with their representatives and lobbying is one of the few ways for the representatives to fund those campaigns they make.



And on a separate note, for those of you who advocated repealing the 17th amendment: there is a reason why the constitution was amended in the first place. Many states were being denied a presence in the senate because state legislatures could not agree on who would become senator. Would you have us return to state where certain States are being disenfranchised?

You advocate special interests funding campaigns?

Do away with part of those campaigns with repeal of the 17th.

If the States can't decide on a senator the people should take action against their state legislatures. They wouldn't be disenfranchised by the constitution but by their own state government. Maybe they could do a GW and have the state supreme court appoint someone.

At least we would have one section of the legislature not bought and paid for. And one that could think more than 2 years ahead.

I would:
alliances with none
12. Ban the use, production, and sale of land mines


What did landmines ever do to you?

I'd start a big social experiment in Anarchism: Disolve one part of government after the other, until there is none left. Then watch what happens.

Wall if off and call in Tac-air for the cleanup.

I snipped all the stuff at the beginning because it was pointless and irrelevant.


RACISM. Thanks for playing. 'Bye.


I snipped all the crap at the end because...well, because it was crap.

A ghetto goblin is a somewhat protected creature (Popularized by hollywood and certain east and west coast politicians), they break into your home and either rape you, murder you (or your family), or steal your stuff. Recently in FL it's legal to shoot them anywhere they attack you, however in most states it's in the home.

The only crime committed with an NFA weapon (legal) was committed by a police officer in Ohio, not NJ. And it was a department issue NFA weapon. I'll dig up links for you later.

99% of automatic weapons in the hands of thugs (OH NOESS!!! RACISM!) are not legal. An unregistered machinegun is 10 years in club fed. The ones NFA registered have never been used in a crime-never.

Read up on the Garry Fadden incident if you want even more proof that NFA weapons should be more available to citizens.

No, take the power away from the government, give it to the people. Make people responsible for their liberty...after all, the government derives power from the people; a government of the people, not above.

Sounds good, but when his preferred model of government was tried in real life, the rich and powerful minority took liberty from the majority for their own benefit.

The government is the body which we all have a stake in the running of. It represents us better than some corporate oligarchy ever could.

I'm not sure I understand...even a cursory examination of his proposals shows he's cutting government's influence in our lives and refocusing the energies towards the defense of the nation, rather than the policing of the populace. Government's purpose is to preserve the intrinsic liberties of a people from whom it derives power and nothing more.
He's not interested in cutting government authority. Just in cutting government responsibility to the majority that is is supposed to represent. I believe that pure capitalism destroys liberty that exists in a mixed economy.

I also object to the hypocritical position of expanding the military, while cutting health services. Both are collectively paid for and collectively provided for the benefit of all the people. Either support both or neither.

Still, there was no income tax prior to 1913 just as there was no Federal Reserve Bank. Abolish the Federal Reserve Bank, restore the integrity of the dollar, do away with the income tax (whose use is to pay back our government's debt to the FRB), remain faithful to the Constitution.
The army was much cheaper back then than now.

A populace of properly trained free men whose only allegiance is to themselves (i.e. discharged) and the preservation of their natural rights is the best safeguard against tyranny.

I think that my position is consistent with this statement.

Our quality of life is higher today than at any time in history. I can't see why right-thinking people advocate the reversal of all the progress we the people have made over the past century.

You need to mail me a bag of screen wipes because I just coughed up my dinner.

With allies like the French who NEEDS enemies?
I'm not French! There are 24 other countries in the EU. France =/= Europe. Why the mindless anti-Europeanism?

Can we stop with the French bashing? It hinders intelligent debate. One would think that the French dropped a nuclear bomb on Washington DC, ffs.

The French are allies of America, you know that. You can't be that stupid. You might as well bash the US for not standing alongside French troops in the Ivory Coast. The majority in Europe were against the Iraq war. Most of our governments, including that of France, represented the will of the people.

Small gov't is a gov't that's only prime concern is nation defense and law&order. The ONLY place that government needs to be big is defense. The ONLY place.

Having the ability to conquer and invade countries across the world comes in handy. Pearl Harbor. 9/11. WTC1.
I'm not saying that it doesn't come in handy. I'm just saying that it's inconsistent with "small government". Do you think that the Libertarian Party (http://www.lp.org/) advocate global military dominance? No, thewy advocate small government, and a defense force, not an offense force.

Funny you mention Pearl Harbour, do you think that FDR's government that fought WW2 was small?

Why does government need to be big on defense only? The 20th century proves that defense is just one of many valuable services that the government should provide to improve the quality of life of the majority.

The defense forces are a "socialist institution" (Freidman), and a bureacracy. You seem to be under the illusion that they are a streamlined engine of the private sector.

What did landmines ever do to you?

I suppose Minnesotan Confederacy just appreciates how good it is to live in a landmine-free zone, and wants others to have the same privelege.

Your disregard for innocent life sickens me. Do you worship at the altar of violence? All your posting is pervaded by reverence for it.

First things first-dissolve all government except for me alone. That way I don't get any bull-shite
2. Make tobacco, and alreadly illegal drugs drugs illegal-with the exception of medical marjiunna that is strictly regulated by hospitals
3. Imposed strict diet and exercise-I'm tired of seeing fat people, get off your ass and do something-this will also lower health care cost do to us not supporting heavy obese people.
4. Remove police, and replace them with military elites. Make all military armed with latest and greatest armor. This will take a quite of the chunk of budjet.
5. Government buiness, not dissolving other compinies, they still are useful.
6. Massive increased spending in technology, medicine, and other scientific endevors
7. Alternetive fuels and Energy- this one speaks for itself-will begin to work on this.
8. Three strike rule-first strike you lose a finger, second a toe, third your life. This is not for graffiti crimes however
9.Begin the space program again at large
10. Remove Abortion-with the exception of the mothers life, and extreme deformities
11. Destroy France
12. Place cameras all over cities and towns for catching criminals easier
13. You can keep you guns-just no machine guns and autos.
14. Collect resources for industrials growth-find ways how not spoil environment
15. Hold press responsible for BS articles- no opinions in the press, just solid fact
16. Stockpile more bombs
17. Take over world
18. I'd still allow for free speach, I don't care if they hate me as long as they don't rebel.
19. Keep your religon, just don't kill each other over it
20. Make a island for the homosexuals-It will be a comfortable place, away from my sight. I really dont care what they do their as long as I don't know about it.

I know many left wingers will cringe in fear, then lash out when I post this, but this is my govt, you have yours.

Take it over completley, Crowning myself Emporer, then wadging war all over to world in an attempt a global conquest.

The electorate.

Change them into politically informed voters.

What did landmines ever do to you?
How unsurprising that YOU support the use of landmines, the most scumbaggy weapon in the world. :rolleyes:

Wall if off and call in Tac-air for the cleanup.
Wall what off? The USA? So now you're fantasizing about blowing up your own country? Do you often get lost in your own brain? How?

A ghetto goblin is a somewhat protected creature (Popularized by hollywood and certain east and west coast politicians), they break into your home and either rape you, murder you (or your family), or steal your stuff. Recently in FL it's legal to shoot them anywhere they attack you, however in most states it's in the home.

The only crime committed with an NFA weapon (legal) was committed by a police officer in Ohio, not NJ. And it was a department issue NFA weapon. I'll dig up links for you later.

99% of automatic weapons in the hands of thugs (OH NOESS!!! RACISM!) are not legal. An unregistered machinegun is 10 years in club fed. The ones NFA registered have never been used in a crime-never.

Read up on the Garry Fadden incident if you want even more proof that NFA weapons should be more available to citizens.
I know what a "ghetto goblin" is. You're not the only racist I'm acquainted with.

And this is the third time (in two threads) that you have made claims about gun statistics without actually providing any statistics from an actual source, despite being asked for such data more than once. So at this point, I'm declaring bullshit on your claim that you know that no legally purchased automatic weapon has ever been used in a crime, ever. From your total lack of supporting evidence, it is obvious that you are just making that up. Done.

Finally, your use of abbreviations instead of actual data does not make you look like you know what you are talking about.

more school- the Asians are only stealing our rightful jobs cuz they go to school 8am-5pm Mon-Fri and 8am-noon on Sat.

more security on the Mexican borders... they are cutting the resourses down there!

more military training in schools- make it to where citizens don't have to rely on others to protect them from terrorists! :mp5:

I think that they should keep certain info. disclosed from the citezens cuz they are likely to go parinoid when they find out... the government's business is not necissarily the citizens!

if i had power..you would be very scared!

How unsurprising that YOU support the use of landmines, the most scumbaggy weapon in the world. :rolleyes:
I dunno. The Betty was a really fun one.:D

Have you found the whip yet? I'm in need of a good tease.:p

I´d change thier status from employed to unemployable

I dunno. The Betty was a really fun one.:D

Have you found the whip yet? I'm in need of a good tease.:p
Actually, I ended up having to empty that whole closet, and then I got involved sorting out my old sweaters, and there were these moths...

Why don't you take a seat on this Bet--- I mean, comfy armchair :D and I'll keep looking. ;)

Actually, I ended up having to empty that whole closet, and then I got involved sorting out my old sweaters, and there were these moths...

Why don't you take a seat on this Bet--- I mean, comfy armchair :D and I'll keep looking. ;)
LOL Yeah, I figured. I have been on my feet a lot today, running around with four-year-olds and all. Sure, why not.
*sits down in "armchair"*

LOL Yeah, I figured. I have been on my feet a lot today, running around with four-year-olds and all. Sure, why not.
*sits down in "armchair"*
Who put you in a room with four-year-olds?! :eek:

Anway, I'm tired as hell, too. Think I'll lay my head down and wait for that soft "fumpf!" in the night coming from the "armchair."

Sweet dreams. ;)

Who put you in a room with four-year-olds?! :eek:

Anway, I'm tired as hell, too. Think I'll lay my head down and wait for that soft "fumpf!" in the night coming from the "armchair."

Sweet dreams. ;)
Who said anything about a room?;)

Don't think I'll get up anytime soon.

Pleasant dreams yourself.:)