How Did We Get In This Mess?

I have no proof so this is simply my speculation and my opinion.

The current economic crisis was brought about by at least three major causes. The housing industry was skewed by rampant misdealings in our major financial institutions, primarily Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. One of Clinton's henchmen became head of Fannie Mae and the board suddenly changed its bonus policies to reward insuring highly questionable loans. This resulted in an enormous home loan bubble and coincidentally huge bonuses for the directors.

At the same time there was wide spread speculation on oil prices. The price of oil and therefore the cost of energy skyrocketed. The extra expenses incurred by everyone to heat/cool their homes and provide even minimal transportation led to less money being available for other items. Manufacturing and shipping costs rose thus making comsumer goods more expensive. Unemployment started to rise perceptively which further weakened the demand for durable goods such as automobiles.

Added to all of this was unprincipled deficit spending by a Democrat Congress with the approval of a Republican President. The whole economy was poised on the precipice. The inevitable finally happened when the housing bubble burst and people began defaulting on their mortgages. Credit dried up and business was not able to sustain a positive cash flow. More layoffs occured and the economy spiraled downward dragging the rest of the world with it.

Here is where I really start speculating. The Democrats (call them what you will..liberals, progressives, socialists) orchestrated the whole scenario with the unwitting facilitation of the disorganized Republicans. The left wing of the Democrat party as symbolized by Barrack Obama is well schooled in how to advance an agenda. Use an existing crisis (or create one) and push your objectives as hard and as fast as possible while pointing the blame elsewhere.

This is where we are now. In six months the Democrats have put forth a huge stimulus package, the biggest budget in American history, an energy tax bill (Cap and Trade), an innocent sounding Health Care Reform bill, appointed numerous "Czars" to oversee federal programs, nominated a Supreme Court justice and the hits just keep on coming. The massive slate of inititives serves not only to push through as much as possible but also to take the public eye off what is happening behind the scenes. Crises in foreign affairs are used to distract from the economic turmoil and vice versa. Gitmo is perfect example.

The pace has been as rapid as possible to forestall the certain backlash of the American voters when the legislation takes effect and mandates things not readily apparent or understood during passage. Misdirection is paramount in any magic act and we have seen plenty of that. Even the so-called beer summit distracted the country if only momentarily. With a fawning press (at least for now) Barack Obama has been able to obtain television access upon request. He is a well polished spokesman (or perhaps teleprompter reader) but says very little of substance even while in a controlled environment.

The conservatives of this country must keep a close watch on the legislation going through Congress. It behooves them to propose well thought out alernatives to any legislation that is not in accordance with the democratic and constitutional principles upon which this nation was founded. Do what ever possible to modify legislation that does not benefit all of us. That which can't be modified as such should be stopped or delayed as long as possible. The key is to act in a measured manner and not say no just to be saying no. Our common interest is at stake.