Only 173 days later

There is already a "grassroots" movement to repeal the 22nd Amendment and pave the way for Obama to run for a 3rd term and beyond. I think George Washington set a good example when he refused to run for a third term, because he realized the risks of stagnant government and messianic figures which could eventually morph into a monarchy or dictatorship. Now, I think that possiblity is indeed remote, but the amount of influence even a two term president can have is disturbing. FDR, who was elected to an unprecedented four terms, took the opportunity to reshape all three branches of government and fill them with his supporters, and we still feel the effects today.

Certainly, this entire issue is up for discussion, and should be rigorously debated. But my offhand reaction is that this is a terrible idea. Let's get through the first term first...I wouldn't want the American Republic to collapse into the American Empire. I'll never forgive Ceasar.

Poplicola

Yes We Can

This is an exciting time for 2nd Amendment supporters throughout the country. Reason Magazine recently interviewed Alan Gura, the lead counsel for the defense in D.C. v. Heller. He explains the continued progress being made in federal courts throughout the country to protect 2nd Amendment rights.

Gura also mentions a recent decision by the Ninth Circuit that holds that the 2nd is actually incorporated against the states by the 14th's "Due Process" clause. Since other circuits have not accepted incorporation, this creates a 'circuit split' and increases the likelihood that the Supreme Court will agree to hear the case (Nordyke v. King).

I don't understand enough about the 14th amendment or its history within the courts to state on opinion on incorporation, though I am trying to learn more. Anyone care to share their thoughts or enlighten me?

233 Years and Counting

Then and now:



Happy Birthday USA!

I'll try to keep updating this.

Valete,
Poplicola

Sources:
https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/geos/US.html
http://www.measuringworth.org
http://inventors.about.com/library/inventors/blfarm4.htm
Wikipedia

Everyday Freedom

Just a moment ago, I was searching for Milton Friedman's Capitalism and Freedom on Amazon (I've borrowed the book and want to add it to my personal library). I suddenly realized, while clicking through pages filled with anarchist pamphlets and libertarian treatises, how wonderful freedom of expression and freedom of belief are. It pains me to think of the dictatorial suppression so prevalent in the world. Still, with the power of social networking tools like Twitter becoming more apparent every day, perhaps Prof. Friedman's dream of a free world will be realized some day. Here's to a desperate wish...

In allegiance with the freedom fighters in Iran, and around the globe,
Poplicola