[oceanview]

are you kidding me? this is the method by which you want the republican party to improve its standing in the african american community? huge payouts, and Jackson and Sharpton in the oval office?

is this really your position? because this is no different then saying that our party should simply have supported reparations for slavery - to buy this support. its no different.

[hoosiermama]

Your are missing the main point of the speech....By allowing people to build their own businesses, homes etc Bush will cut back on the HUD money that is currently flowing into NOLA. In the long run we'll be money ahead.

[section9]

No, no. Read the speech.

I didn't say that Bush was going to give clowns like JJ and Sharpton money. Are you kidding? That would be like putting Heydrich in charge of the United Jewish Appeal!

That's the last thing on Bush's mind. Bush want's to push his agenda: loans to encourage Christian self-help. This entire effort is of a piece with his personal faith.

But ask yourself, what is wrong with race-baiting chump change like JJ and Reverend Al in the Oval Office if they can be turned to Bush's advantage, especially, especially if they can be turned on the cheap.

Remember, both of these jokers have huge egos, and desire face time above all things, with the sole exception of money.

Now, if they could be persuaded to play both sides of the street in '06 and '08 after watching our performance, perhaps a little investment in them down the line wouldn't be so bad. But first, JJ and Reverend Al will have to play by Bush's rules. We are not the Democrats.

Remember the three most important rules in politics:

1. It is better to be feared than loved.

2. No good deed goes unpunished.

3. Keep your friends close, keep your enemies closer.

Be Seeing You,

Chris