I don't know you, so you may very well know more about politics than 90% of the people around here.
But I will tell you one thing from observation: Anyone who would announce something like that in a room full of masked strangers is so incredibly tone-deaf and ham-fisted, that while you may know a lot, I question how good you are at "doing politics."
Sir, with all due respect, you set yourself up to be hassled with a comment like that. So hassle you we did. What I said wasn't meant as an insult. Just an online gasp at the sheer audacity of your remark.
Further: PD rants are not EVER intended to be Buckleyesque Sowellful political analysis, nor do I think he intend them to be. (If you want to debate him in his area of expertise, you will have to deal with him on the Naval Aviator threads) His rants are fun, intelligent, full throttle optimistic pep talks and observational political analysis. PD speaks from the gut, and based on his own experience. They are a great chance to have some fun and take a fresh look at things. I will continue to appreciate them, even if you do not.
I hope to see you around someday on a more in depth political analysis thread were I will have the opportunity to discover deep and meaningful insights.
(Sorry to take your name in vain PD and inscribe intent to you, but I it like I see it. Hope it was ok.)
No reason there can't be deep and meaningful insights on any FReep thread. By condemning people for not adhering to your standards of humility and modesty, you appear not to welcome liveliness, which is far more important in a forum -- especially an electronic one -- than self-effacement.