The State of the Union.

I’ve been reading the transcript and it’s just making me angry and depressed. The weasel uses phrases like he “submitted a comprehensive energy strategy that encourages conservation, alternative sources, a modernized electricity grid and more production here at home …” where in actuality, he’s done nothing to encourage conservation and his hydrogen “initiative” is so far in the future as to be nothing but a straw man for real reform. His “Clear Skies” program is nothing but a giveaway to the utilities and a screw job for the citizens.

Then we have Social Security, where he says:

“For example, in the year 2027, the government will somehow have to come up with an extra $200 billion to keep the system afloat, and by 2033, the annual shortfall would be more than $300 billion. By the year 2042, the entire system would be exhausted and bankrupt.”

This is just so much specious bullshit (pardon my Texan). We’re “somehow” going to have to come up with that $200 and $300 billion just like any other government debt, i.e. the bonds the Chinese, Japanese, and Saudi governments are buying to prop up the weasel’s deficit spending. As far as being “exhausted and bankrupt” in 2042, benefits would still be payable at 75 to 80% of current levels, adjusted for inflation. So the weasel is not just a liar, he’s a fing liar (the uck is silent).

The Rude Pundit had some interesting commentary on the speech and on the right-wing media’s reaction to the catcalls that Bush apparently received. (I can’t stand the little weasel, so I only read transcripts). The Rude Pundit really is rude, but pithy. Read his comments here.

I’m cranky and disgusted. I can't stand it. Say goodnight, Bruce.