COVID

[Flatlandcoug]

We are all frustrated by the coronavirus and most of us agree that the government's handling of the crisis has been botched at just about every level. Too many restrictions, not enough restrictions, inconsistent messaging and on and on and on.

I just wanted to say that despite all of the incompetence that we've seen, I wish that people would quit pretending that this thing isn't real and dangerous. One of my friends died last week from COVID-related complications, a co-worker's dad is in the ICU, another co-worker's dad has caught the virus. I just learned that my 85 year old neighbor, who goes kayaking and plays pickle ball and is in generally good health, has been in the hospital since last weekend because of COVID. Another person I know has heart problems that they didn't have before they contracted COVID.

We know that coronavirus isn't likely to kill younger people, but those people don't live in a bubble and the interactions they have can easily end up putting people like my neighbor in the hospital. There's no magic bullet to keep it from spreading, but taking the time to wear a mask or social distance or cancel a meaningless football game are small prices to pay to save lives. I do think that some of the restrictions are draconian and represent significant overkill and I don't mind people being frustrated....but to pretend that this thing isn't deadly or harmful is insulting to the millions of people who are being harmed by this. People in Kansas didn't take this thing seriously and that's why there are so many people that I know that are being hit by this. This thing sucks and I'm hoping that the vaccines can make a difference so we aren't dealing with this crap next fall. Rant done.

 

[chugspig]

I’m on your “side” of this. But where many are getting hung up is that they aren’t being given the “option” to choose to avoid situations and places where they could be exposed. There is some truth to the option being taken away as going too far. And while we can hammer this back and forth about how we all should be willing to give up conveniences to protect others, there are just as many valid arguments that those at risk should be better about not putting themselves at risks, and people should bare the individual responsibility to not be around those that could potentially face harsh issues. There is no good option really.

 

[NMBRCRNCHR]

Not sure where you hang out, but I am not hearing many people pretend it isn't real. What people are up in arms over is how it has been handled (local/state/feds) and the "science" that is being followed to excuse the most freedom limiting restrictions since WWII.

People at risk should isolate and be first inline for the vaccine. We now know who those folks are and isn't a large portion of society. Kids should be in school, especially elementary aged children. Businesses should be allowed to open, with masks/social distancing. "Cases!" should not lead news stories, as that means squat. Instead, we should be hearing stories about the tremendous progress we have made in treating the disease, how amazing it is that we have 2 viable vaccines, brought to market in the shortest timeframe in history. We should pressuring our state legislators to rescind never-ending emergency declaration power from our governors. Plans should be in place to assist families and businesses that have been most affected by the lockdowns (including landlords BTW).

 

[Flatlandcoug]

Not sure where you hang out, but I am not hearing many people pretend it isn't real. What people are up in arms over is how it has been handled (local/state/feds) and the "science" that is being followed to excuse the most freedom limiting restrictions since WWII.

People at risk should isolate and be first inline for the vaccine. We now know who those folks are and isn't a large portion of society. Kids should be in school, especially elementary aged children. Businesses should be allowed to open, with masks/social distancing. "Cases!" should not lead news stories, as that means squat. Instead, we should be hearing stories about the tremendous progress we have made in treating the disease, how amazing it is that we have 2 viable vaccines, brought to market in the shortest timeframe in history. We should pressuring our state legislators to rescind never-ending emergency declaration power from our governors. Plans should be in place to assist families and businesses that have been most affected by the lockdowns (including landlords BTW).

Perhaps it's because I live in Kansas and I lived in North Central Washington when I was younger, but my "bubble" is filled with people that view the virus as a liberal hoax perpetuated by liberal governors trying to control the sheeple. Perhaps its because here in Kansas, we made it until October without the virus really being a big deal and it made people complacent and we are getting pummeled now. People had developed a "this is a hoax" mentality because they weren't seeing it firsthand?

I agree that we don't need to over-shelter lower risk groups and I have a friend in Spokane who has to go to an underground "illegal" gym while I get to hang out at my local YMCA in Kansas with nothing more restrictive than a mask when I'm walking around in the building.....and that's dumb that my friend has to "break the law" in order to stay healthy.

 

[BleedCrimsonandGray]

Perhaps it's because I live in Kansas and I lived in North Central Washington when I was younger, but my "bubble" is filled with people that view the virus as a liberal hoax perpetuated by liberal governors trying to control the sheeple. Perhaps its because here in Kansas, we made it until October without the virus really being a big deal and it made people complacent and we are getting pummeled now. People had developed a "this is a hoax" mentality because they weren't seeing it firsthand?

I agree that we don't need to over-shelter lower risk groups and I have a friend in Spokane who has to go to an underground "illegal" gym while I get to hang out at my local YMCA in Kansas with nothing more restrictive than a mask when I'm walking around in the building.....and that's dumb that my friend has to "break the law" in order to stay healthy.

Just want to point out that a second wave was predicted way back in spring, but that's been conveniently forgotten (not you, media and politicians) in favor of being able to wag a finger at all the bad people "not following our rules."

Also, is your bubble really "filled"? Perhaps your giving too much weight to the vocal minority because they stand out due to their idiocy? Honest question.

 

[425cougfan]

We all agree that this sucks, and I'm very sorry about those you know who have been impacted, in addition to the legions of others.

That said, per the comment about people in Kansas not taking it seriously and that being the reason you know people being hit by this, it seems not only inconsistent with other portions of your post, but with all the data out there. Where are people taking it seriously or, per your implication, more compliant in the aggregate and/or subject to higher degrees of lockdown (e.g., California), but *not* being impacted?

 

[dgibbons]

We all agree that this sucks, and I'm very sorry about those you know who have been impacted, in addition to the legions of others.

That said, per the comment about people in Kansas not taking it seriously and that being the reason you know people being hit by this, it seems not only inconsistent with other portions of your post, but with all the data out there. Where are people taking it seriously or, per your implication, more compliant in the aggregate and/or subject to higher degrees of lockdown (e.g., California), but *not* being impacted?

We've had a mask mandate in Washington since June or so? My guess is that the "liberal/media hoaxers" already spend quite a bit of time locked in their bunkers. But, what do I know.

At least in a general sense, the spread to the middle America is not very surprising. The east coast and west coast locked down in early spring. That slowed the spread to the middle of the country. Then increasing temperatures slowed the spread. Now, we're back to cold and flu season, and voila. States like ND, SD, Iowa, Nebraska, Kansas that more or less escaped the first wave are not escaping the current wave (whether it is second or third, I don't know).

 

[dgibbons]

Not sure where you hang out, but I am not hearing many people pretend it isn't real. What people are up in arms over is how it has been handled (local/state/feds) and the "science" that is being followed to excuse the most freedom limiting restrictions since WWII.

People at risk should isolate and be first inline for the vaccine. We now know who those folks are and isn't a large portion of society. Kids should be in school, especially elementary aged children. Businesses should be allowed to open, with masks/social distancing. "Cases!" should not lead news stories, as that means squat. Instead, we should be hearing stories about the tremendous progress we have made in treating the disease, how amazing it is that we have 2 viable vaccines, brought to market in the shortest timeframe in history. We should pressuring our state legislators to rescind never-ending emergency declaration power from our governors. Plans should be in place to assist families and businesses that have been most affected by the lockdowns (including landlords BTW).

The data is pretty clear that if you're under 60 and in reasonably good health this is not dangerous. My wife tested positive the week before Thanksgiving. She had mild symptoms for about a week. Our kids both tested negative. Presumably I had it too, didn't bother getting tested. I had to quarantine for two weeks whether I was positive or not. I had sniffles for two days. I had some muscle aches one day too that went away after I took a nap. I would have gone to work absent the CDC guidelines followed by my firm.

I suspect that the businesses breaking the shutdown orders are doing so for practical reasons, not ideological ones. It's their last gasp. Open and face the consequences, or stay closed and face certain doom.

BTW, Inslee has been sitting the data that shows schools should open since about November 1.

 

[chugspig]

FYI...For those that love Pullman Chinese food restaurants Covid has severely impacted that family. Minh, who ran Minhs Restaurant passed away from Covid. Minhs sister in law who ran New Garden, nearly died, and I believe it also killed some ownership of Emerald Restaurant. This is second hand but some of it is confirmed. Supposedly one or more restaurants may be sold and moved on from.

 

[702coug]

Treat it like the flu. If symptomatic, stay home until its over. If you are afraid, get the vaccine. The tests are flawed and unreliable, don't plan your lives around them. Follow the rules of private businesses and try to be respectful of others.

 

[Coug90]

We are all frustrated by the coronavirus and most of us agree that the government's handling of the crisis has been botched at just about every level. Too many restrictions, not enough restrictions, inconsistent messaging and on and on and on.

I just wanted to say that despite all of the incompetence that we've seen, I wish that people would quit pretending that this thing isn't real and dangerous. One of my friends died last week from COVID-related complications, a co-worker's dad is in the ICU, another co-worker's dad has caught the virus. I just learned that my 85 year old neighbor, who goes kayaking and plays pickle ball and is in generally good health, has been in the hospital since last weekend because of COVID. Another person I know has heart problems that they didn't have before they contracted COVID.

We know that coronavirus isn't likely to kill younger people, but those people don't live in a bubble and the interactions they have can easily end up putting people like my neighbor in the hospital. There's no magic bullet to keep it from spreading, but taking the time to wear a mask or social distance or cancel a meaningless football game are small prices to pay to save lives. I do think that some of the restrictions are draconian and represent significant overkill and I don't mind people being frustrated....but to pretend that this thing isn't deadly or harmful is insulting to the millions of people who are being harmed by this. People in Kansas didn't take this thing seriously and that's why there are so many people that I know that are being hit by this. This thing sucks and I'm hoping that the vaccines can make a difference so we aren't dealing with this crap next fall. Rant done.

Sorry to hear about how hard this has hit your circle personally. The unfortunate thing in all this is that the damage has been done. People gave dug in their political and “rights” heels because of the information they’ve chosen to consume...one way or the other...and it’s not likely anyone’s mind is going to change at this point as far as what they do for themselves and their neighbors. Hell I’ve heard plenty of stories directly from drs and nurses about people literally dying in bed and refusing to acknowledge COVID was ending them.
I want to tell the guy in the grocery store who selfishly walks around without a mask to put a F’ing mask on, but all that’s gonna do is get my croutons knocked out of my hands.

 

[cr8zyncalif]

We are all going to have to forgive ourselves and others when this is over. Common sense has been in short supply, particularly in what passes for the political leadership. We knew by mid-April that airborne transmission was the biggest concern, but the chorus of folks who didn't like that info, including various political figures and mega-church ministers whose business model was threatened, worked to avoid a unified response. It is now probably too late to get sensible precautions in place for Christmas...people will meet, knowing the facts but choosing not to believe them, just like at Thanksgiving. And since it is winter, trying to keep these meetings outdoors (which was practical for the warm weather holidays) won't happen. Our California hospitals are pressed more severely than they were in the spring. We've done more half assed ICU remodels...in lobbies, parking garages, tents and just about any other sort of scenario that you can imagine...and we are still almost full. We can create space, but we can't create nurses, and that is where the infrastructure is collapsing now. Every nurse I know personally with any front line connection is working minimum 55 hours/wk, and has been for months. Most people here are finally recognizing that masks make sense, but they are still willing to spend an hour or two in a relatively small room with others and think that a mask will solve the transmission problem. The really dumb ones don't even wear a mask.

Lots of contradictions, lots of short tempers, and just enough wingnuts at both ends of the spectrum to keep emotions high and reasoned responses low.

Civil wars look a lot like that, except guns are used to kill instead of diseases. We are going to need a massive forgiveness campaign next year, and even with that, there will be people who don't forgive, any more than the south forgave after the civil war.

 

[BleedCrimsonandGray]

We are going to need a massive forgiveness campaign next year, and even with that, there will be people who don't forgive, any more than the south forgave after the civil war.

Appreciate the altruism, but you only need to look at days after the election when several D leaders spewed rhetoric aping Michelle Obamas notion that "50 million people voted for hate, racism and bigotry."

I used to believe it was rhetoric, but I'm beginning to believe the hate and intolerance of "other" is very real. God help us.

 

[Coug90]

Appreciate the altruism, but you only need to look at days after the election when several D leaders spewed rhetoric aping Michelle Obamas notion that "50 million people voted for hate, racism and bigotry."

I used to believe it was rhetoric, but I'm beginning to believe the hate and intolerance of "other" is very real. God help us.

Eh. In all fairness I’m a radical leftist socialist Marxist anti-American baby killing, gun hating, god hating libtard because I don’t think much of Trump and didn’t vote for him. This stuff goes both ways.

 

[BleedCrimsonandGray]

Eh. In all fairness I’m a radical leftist socialist Marxist anti-American baby killing, gun hating, god hating libtard because I don’t think much of Trump and didn’t vote for him. This stuff goes both ways.

Aaaaaand, just like that you created a strawman. I never said it wasn't equally applicable.

 

[Coug90]

Aaaaaand, just like that you created a strawman. I never said it wasn't equally applicable.

...Straw man creating...

 

[BleedCrimsonandGray]

...Straw man creating...

Creatine?

 

[Coug90]

Creatine?

+ glutamine. When I know I’m not getting tested I’ll even throw in some ephedra.

 

[BleedCrimsonandGray]

+ glutamine. When I know I’m not getting tested I’ll even throw in some ephedra.

I had to quit my pre-workout. Found out it was the BCAAs that were making my ears ring and skin itch. That being said... it freaking works. Even on days with flagging energy I would hit my lifts. Decided the pluses werent worth the side effects, cest la vie

 

[Coug90]

I had to quit my pre-workout. Found out it was the BCAAs that were making my ears ring and skin itch. That being said... it freaking works. Even on days with flagging energy I would hit my lifts. Decided the pluses werent worth the side effects, cest la vie

Lots of effective supplements for sure. Problem is my 41 yr old shoulders can’t keep up with the science. 25 years of lifting, both need the knife.

 

[cr8zyncalif]

I talked to my sister the social worker tonight; she works at the state prison in Airway Heights. 2100 inmates. 1400 presently positive for Covid. She and the other staff are the only ones permitted in. She worked 6 of her 12 hours today in the kitchen. 150 out of 600 staff are out with Covid, so the rest have to try to keep the wheels on. They kept it out until 2.5 weeks ago. Went from zero to 1400 in that time. This light to medium security prison (all felons) operates on a work or education model; the inmates mix regularly; and they have no facilities that permit distancing. Pretty much shows what Covid can do in indoor, long exposure conditions.

 

[sylean]

the proof of how devastating this covid has been is in the total number of deaths in the USA alone this year....I mean with all this covid, its just skyrocketed........NOT!....total deaths no different than other yrs....seems as a populace we are staying statistically at the same rate as other yrs, relative to our population growth....covid is not a hoax, but the whole nation should not have been locked out of jobs and businesses and futures ....instead, invite those elderly or vulnerable to stay home........too hard a decision I guess....but I knew locally that the authorities were not serious about covid when not one person in the govt or media said anything when NQcasino opened its doors in early June NOT REQUIREING MASKS.....

 

[COUGinNCW]

the proof of how devastating this covid has been is in the total number of deaths in the USA alone this year....I mean with all this covid, its just skyrocketed........NOT!....total deaths no different than other yrs....seems as a populace we are staying statistically at the same rate as other yrs, relative to our population growth....covid is not a hoax, but the whole nation should not have been locked out of jobs and businesses and futures ....instead, invite those elderly or vulnerable to stay home........too hard a decision I guess....but I knew locally that the authorities were not serious about covid when not one person in the govt or media said anything when NQcasino opened its doors in early June NOT REQUIREING MASKS.....

That’s not what this article with CDC data says. Total deaths is up pretty significantly even when you account for population growth. I suspect you’ll the death count go down slightly from historical s for the next couple of year once the vaccine gets to the vulnerable population as a lot of the people Covid is taking out would have passed in the next couple of years.

Redirect Notice

www.google.com

 

[Cougsocal]

Appreciate the altruism, but you only need to look at days after the election when several D leaders spewed rhetoric aping Michelle Obamas notion that "50 million people voted for hate, racism and bigotry."

I used to believe it was rhetoric, but I'm beginning to believe the hate and intolerance of "other" is very real. God help us.

Isn't the real problem, that what you claim was said, "50 million people voted for hate, racism and bigotry," never was by Michelle Obama, a black woman or by anyone else?

Before the Civil Rights and Voting Right Acts of 1964 and 1965, respectively, the Democratic Party was the clear political home of American racism. When the Dixiecrats left the party to become Republicans, as a result, American racism found a new home. How big that element is, is not clear as it is difficult to gage the content of one's heart, but it is there. Until Republicans' take a stand on par with the above acts, and stop the Lee Atwater-based campaign tactics, pro equality Republicans voters, like it or not, vote for and support a political party that avowed American racists in overwhelming numbers also support.

 

[BleedCrimsonandGray]

Isn't the real problem, that what you claim was said, "50 million people voted for hate, racism and bigotry," never was by Michelle Obama, a black woman or by anyone else?

Before the Civil Rights and Voting Right Acts of 1964 and 1965, respectively, the Democratic Party was the clear political home of American racism. When the Dixiecrats left the party to become Republicans, as a result, American racism found a new home. How big that element is, is not clear as it is difficult to gage the content of one's heart, but it is there. Until Republicans' take a stand on par with the above acts, and stop the Lee Atwater-based campaign tactics, pro equality Republicans voters, like it or not, vote for and support a political party that avowed American racists in overwhelming numbers also support.

"Let’s remember that tens of millions of people voted for the status quo, even when it meant supporting lies, hate, chaos, and division."

Direct quote from People magazine.

The headline read "Michelle Obama Warns of Hard Work Ahead: 'Tens of Millions' Voted for 'Lies, Hate, Chaos'"

Yup, made it up.

 

[KRUSTYtheCOUG]

Appreciate the altruism, but you only need to look at days after the election when several D leaders spewed rhetoric aping Michelle Obamas notion that "50 million people voted for hate, racism and bigotry."

I used to believe it was rhetoric, but I'm beginning to believe the hate and intolerance of "other" is very real. God help us.

"Let’s remember that tens of millions of people voted for the status quo, even when it meant supporting lies, hate, chaos, and division."

Direct quote from People magazine.

The headline read "Michelle Obama Warns of Hard Work Ahead: 'Tens of Millions' Voted for 'Lies, Hate, Chaos'"

Yup, made it up.

Um, you did kinda. And what of her statement isn't true? Tens of millions? Check. Lies? Check. Hate? Check.. Chaos? Check. Division? Check. That's all I have to say about that

 

[Flatlandcoug]

Isn't the real problem, that what you claim was said, "50 million people voted for hate, racism and bigotry," never was by Michelle Obama, a black woman or by anyone else?

Before the Civil Rights and Voting Right Acts of 1964 and 1965, respectively, the Democratic Party was the clear political home of American racism. When the Dixiecrats left the party to become Republicans, as a result, American racism found a new home. How big that element is, is not clear as it is difficult to gage the content of one's heart, but it is there. Until Republicans' take a stand on par with the above acts, and stop the Lee Atwater-based campaign tactics, pro equality Republicans voters, like it or not, vote for and support a political party that avowed American racists in overwhelming numbers also support.

Cougsocal nails it on the head.

The problem isn't that all Republicans are racist. The problem is that some very prominent Republicans are racist and nobody does anything to dissuade them from being that way. In general, it seems that it's become good politics for the GOP to encourage dislike of minorities to get their base worked up about the "us vs. them" team sport aspects of politics.

 

[cr8zyncalif]

Appreciate the altruism, but you only need to look at days after the election when several D leaders spewed rhetoric aping Michelle Obamas notion that "50 million people voted for hate, racism and bigotry."

I used to believe it was rhetoric, but I'm beginning to believe the hate and intolerance of "other" is very real. God help us.

Bleed, I understand what you are saying, but let's be clear...this is not altruism. It is hard reality. Without a concerted effort to forgive each other after this is done, we will suffer consequences that could be avoided. I'll add that it takes a good leadership element to pull that off. Who knows if that will be available when covid is over? There are only so many Churchill's available for crisis management, and after the crisis the leader you need is often different from what you needed during the crisis.

 

[BleedCrimsonandGray]

Bleed, I understand what you are saying, but let's be clear...this is not altruism. It is hard reality. Without a concerted effort to forgive each other after this is done, we will suffer consequences that could be avoided. I'll add that it takes a good leadership element to pull that off. Who knows if that will be available when covid is over? There are only so many Churchill's available for crisis management, and after the crisis the leader you need is often different from what you needed during the crisis.

I believe you and agree, but imho there isn't a single person in office now that has the capacity or motivation to try to unite this country, and frankly its been that way since 2001, and the only reason 2001 united us was 9/11 and we ALL has another "them" to demonize.

For example: the Covid rescue bill should be money for people and/ or businesses that need it - instead, its fill to the brim with pork. And then its tit-for-tat, this for that, all the while the people who need help aren't getting it. And before someone chimes in with "well the republicans this or that...", there is pork on both sides and both sides are guilty of being self-serving douchebags. As I said, the bill should be pork free and then there wouldn't be any arguing about funding for planned parenthood or abortion clinics or extra money for big business buddies.

Again, I have zero faith that any of the politicians in office have the moral fortitude or constitution to do whats right for the American people or the country - hence my dubbing that notion "altruistic."

 

[BleedCrimsonandGray]

Cougsocal nails it on the head.

The problem isn't that all Republicans are racist. The problem is that some very prominent Republicans are racist and nobody does anything to dissuade them from being that way. In general, it seems that it's become good politics for the GOP to encourage dislike of minorities to get their base worked up about the "us vs. them" team sport aspects of politics.

Typed a reply, but you know what, nevermind. Its been a(nother) challenging week and I just don't have the energy to fight with people on the internet about sh!t I'm powerless to change.

Peace, have a great weekend, go Cougs.

 

[dgibbons]

Um, you did kinda. And what of her statement isn't true? Tens of millions? Check. Lies? Check. Hate? Check.. Chaos? Check. Division? Check. That's all I have to say about that

Is she referring to Trump or her husband?

 

[dgibbons]

Cougsocal nails it on the head.

The problem isn't that all Republicans are racist. The problem is that some very prominent Republicans are racist and nobody does anything to dissuade them from being that way. In general, it seems that it's become good politics for the GOP to encourage dislike of minorities to get their base worked up about the "us vs. them" team sport aspects of politics.

It doesn't take much to realize that disparities are based on class. It's income and education rather than race.

 

[dgibbons]

I believe you and agree, but imho there isn't a single person in office now that has the capacity or motivation to try to unite this country, and frankly its been that way since 2001, and the only reason 2001 united us was 9/11 and we ALL has another "them" to demonize.

For example: the Covid rescue bill should be money for people and/ or businesses that need it - instead, its fill to the brim with pork. And then its tit-for-tat, this for that, all the while the people who need help aren't getting it. And before someone chimes in with "well the republicans this or that...", there is pork on both sides and both sides are guilty of being self-serving douchebags. As I said, the bill should be pork free and then there wouldn't be any arguing about funding for planned parenthood or abortion clinics or extra money for big business buddies.

Again, I have zero faith that any of the politicians in office have the moral fortitude or constitution to do whats right for the American people or the country - hence my dubbing that notion "altruistic."

We have a system where identity politics is combined with a duopoly. You blame your failings on the other side, and it satisfies the base. For example, Obama did almost nothing in office. How does he explain that away? Blame the Republican Congress and later Senate. Why blame himself for being unable to craft a compromise?

 

[Flatlandcoug]

It doesn't take much to realize that disparities are based on class. It's income and education rather than race.

Income and education are a big part of it......but the GOP lives off of appealing to poor white people by suggesting that there wouldn't be as many problems if we didn't have all that minority trash in the inner cities causing problems and dirty, rapey immigrants coming into our country to destroy us. If you don't believe that....you ain't paying attention. I know plenty of poor white trash that vote Republican because they have bought into the idea that it's us vs them.

To be fair, democrats are guilty of establishing policies that make people feel that they are selling out "middle" America to appeal to minorities.

 

[mikalalas]

the proof of how devastating this covid has been is in the total number of deaths in the USA alone this year....I mean with all this covid, its just skyrocketed........NOT!....total deaths no different than other yrs....seems as a populace we are staying statistically at the same rate as other yrs, relative to our population growth....covid is not a hoax, but the whole nation should not have been locked out of jobs and businesses and futures ....instead, invite those elderly or vulnerable to stay home........too hard a decision I guess....but I knew locally that the authorities were not serious about covid when not one person in the govt or media said anything when NQcasino opened its doors in early June NOT REQUIREING MASKS.....

10, TEN MILLION CASES.

300K DEAD

A 2.65% Mortality Rate.

FLU:

About 2 to 4 million cases

About a 1.35% Mortality rate.

Approximate Mortality rate of random assorted things like car wrecks, getting hit by lightning, etc:

About 500k to 1 million dead a year, and about a .65 to .75% mortality rate.

Covid is only about twice as bad as the FLU.

2 Extremes:

1. Covid is nothing. False.

2. Covid is as bad as Bubonic Black Plague. False.

Covid is something, not nothing. Is Serious. But it is EXAGGERATED by mostly Liberal Democrats, so that they can continue to do lockdowns or they the liberal democrats do lockdowns because of ignorance.

Also you touch on something:

HYPOCRISY, FAVORITISM, DISCRIMINATION:

According to the locking down liberal democrats:

1. Its ok for:

A. Protest, riots, spreading the virus.

B. For Casinos to have 500 to 2000 people shoulder to Shoulder gambling, spreading the virus.

C. Super Big Box Retailer's to be JAMMED PACKED

2. But its NOT ok for:

A. Sing with mask on at Church

B. Go to church with more then 25 to 50 at church even with using Covid Safety Protocols.

C. Small Businesses, can only have 25 to 50, an or only have pick up, no dining in, an or must close

D. Gyms must close.

E. Cant hike the PCT Pacific Coast Trail, and similar, even tho your the only one out there, no chance of covid spread.

 

[mikalalas]

Cougsocal nails it on the head.

The problem isn't that all Republicans are racist. The problem is that some very prominent Republicans are racist and nobody does anything to dissuade them from being that way. In general, it seems that it's become good politics for the GOP to encourage dislike of minorities to get their base worked up about the "us vs. them" team sport aspects of politics.

THIS IS FALSE.

And it is spinned that way by the media.

Republicans have a problem with illegal alien, undocumented, etc, immigrants coming to the USA illegally, and then getting freebies, handouts, fraudently voting, not getting deported, and getting released into society, by liberal democrats, if they commit a crime.

That gets spinned into Republicans, Conservatives hate, are racist against Hispanics, Immigrants, blacks, etc.

Also its not SOME. Some would be a lot.

Its actually a extremely very few of conservatives, republicans are racist, etc, and have been repudiated, marginalized by the non racist republican, conservative base.

Also republicans, conservatives have publically spoken out against racism.

But the mainstream, lamestream, CNN, NBC, CBS, ABC, New York Times, etc, media, the ARM of the Liberals, Democrats, have SPINNED, LIED, said that some to most Republicans, conservatives are supposedly racist, and that supposedly the repubicans, conservatives have not publically spoken out against racism, and wont do that.

The Truth is that the Republicans, Conservatives could get rid of every racist, whether in the party or not, and be racist free, and the Narrative would still be, and the media would still say, and many would still wrongly believe that Republicans, conservatives are supposedly racist, an or that at least some, lots, almost most are racist, and that republicans, conservatives dont publically condemn racist, racism.

 

[Flatlandcoug]

THIS IS FALSE.

And it is spinned that way by the media.

Republicans have a problem with illegal alien, undocumented, etc, immigrants coming to the USA illegally, and then getting freebies, handouts, fraudently voting, not getting deported, and getting released into society, by liberal democrats, if they commit a crime.

That gets spinned into Republicans, Conservatives hate, are racist against Hispanics, Immigrants, blacks, etc.

Also its not SOME. Some would be a lot.

Its actually a extremely very few of conservatives, republicans are racist, etc, and have been repudiated, marginalized by the non racist republican, conservative base.

Also republicans, conservatives have publically spoken out against racism.

But the mainstream, lamestream, CNN, NBC, CBS, ABC, New York Times, etc, media, the ARM of the Liberals, Democrats, have SPINNED, LIED, said that some to most Republicans, conservatives are supposedly racist, and that supposedly the repubicans, conservatives have not publically spoken out against racism, and wont do that.

The Truth is that the Republicans, Conservatives could get rid of every racist, whether in the party or not, and be racist free, and the Narrative would still be, and the media would still say, and many would still wrongly believe that Republicans, conservatives are supposedly racist, an or that at least some, lots, almost most are racist, and that republicans, conservatives dont publically condemn racist, racism.

Adorable take. I said that I don't believe that all Republicans are racist. I said that some are and that they are allowed to be racist with no repercussion.

And Trump has a problem with all immigrants and has been very aggressive in his attempts to stop all immigration. This, despite the fact that a very large percentage of the greatest advances in our history were inspired or led by immigrants.

And, as I said before, a lot of Republicans have bought into the idea that it's us (white, rural America) against them (urban, minority America). And to the point about income and education above, it's absolutely about income and education in the fact that the GOP has effectively marketed itself as the champion of poor, rural white America even though the GOP policies benefit large corporations and huge corporate farms far more than they help rural Americans.

 

[mikalalas]

Income and education are a big part of it......but the GOP lives off of appealing to poor white people by suggesting that there wouldn't be as many problems if we didn't have all that minority trash in the inner cities causing problems and dirty, rapey immigrants coming into our country to destroy us. If you don't believe that....you ain't paying attention. I know plenty of poor white trash that vote Republican because they have bought into the idea that it's us vs them.

To be fair, democrats are guilty of establishing policies that make people feel that they are selling out "middle" America to appeal to minorities.

Only about 1 out of 8 to 50 republicans, conservatives, are like what your saying, racist.

Only about 1 out of 3,4,5,6, do wrongly pander to the 1 out 6,7,8,9 to 50 that are racist.

And yes even that little needs to stop.

Part of the reason why your sating what your saying, is because there probably are a lot of republican, conservative racist LIVING AROUND, CLOSE, NEAR YOU, OR WITHIN YOUR CIRCLE OF ASSOCIATION, INFLUENCE, ETC.

Just because you know, or have rant into a lot of republican, conservative racist, etc, doesnt mean a lot of the rest of the conservatives, republicans are racist elsewhere in the country.

The vast Majority of Conservatives, Republicans just want immigrants to come to the USA LEGALLY INSTEAD OF ILLEGALLY, and want the illegal immigrants that do commit crimes(NOT SAYING THAT ALL ILLEGALS ARE BAD, COMMIT CRIME), get deported.

And we dont want illegals to get freebies, illegally, fraudently vote, etc.

And as far as minorities in innercities, we just want the problem fixed. AKA for the Inner City Chicago problems to be fixed.(most of the inner city Chicago problems are by minorities, because 7,8,9 out of 10 there are minorities, because of cycle of Poverty, etc, not because of race)(saying that is not racist.)

We want to stop Black on Black Violence in Innercity Chicago and other places.

Its just that we disagree with Liberals, democrats on about solutions, and because of that the media, liberals, democrats spin that into we conservatives, republicans are supposedly racist, and you buy into that hook, line, and sinker.

 

[Flatlandcoug]

Only about 1 out of 8 to 50 republicans, conservatives, are like what your saying, racist.

Only about 1 out of 3,4,5,6, do wrongly pander to the 1 out 6,7,8,9 to 50 that are racist.

And yes even that little needs to stop.

Part of the reason why your sating what your saying, is because there probably are a lot of republican, conservative racist LIVING AROUND, CLOSE, NEAR YOU, OR WITHIN YOUR CIRCLE OF ASSOCIATION, INFLUENCE, ETC.

Just because you know, or have rant into a lot of republican, conservative racist, etc, doesnt mean a lot of the rest of the conservatives, republicans are racist elsewhere in the country.

The vast Majority of Conservatives, Republicans just want immigrants to come to the USA LEGALLY INSTEAD OF ILLEGALLY, and want the illegal immigrants that do commit crimes(NOT SAYING THAT ALL ILLEGALS ARE BAD, COMMIT CRIME), get deported.

And we dont want illegals to get freebies, illegally, fraudently vote, etc.

And as far as minorities in innercities, we just want the problem fixed. AKA for the Inner City Chicago problems to be fixed.(most of the inner city Chicago problems are by minorities, because 7,8,9 out of 10 there are minorities, because of cycle of Poverty, etc, not because of race)(saying that is not racist.)

We want to stop Black on Black Violence in Innercity Chicago and other places.

Its just that we disagree with Liberals, democrats on about solutions, and because of that the media, liberals, democrats spin that into we conservatives, republicans are supposedly racist, and you buy into that hook, line, and sinker.

Dude......I live in Kansas and listen to real Republicans in one of the reddest states in the country. I don't have to watch the "media" to know how the GOP thinks......I live in the fuggin' middle of it. And trust me.....there is a lot of racism in Kansas. Not "burn a cross in the yard!" type racism and I would never suggest that. What I see is "they are second class citizens and their problems are their own fault" type of discrimination. It's absolutely fine for a black man to get killed by a cop but outrage when it's a white woman getting killed type of thing. Lack of empathy and desire to understand when its "them".

When you hear about redlining and the response is, "well, they are probably going to default" when the reality is that the predatory business practices significantly increase the odds of it happening.

 

[Flatlandcoug]

Just move to SF, man. Or, more seriously, something like Colorado (if wanting a blue-purple mix) or Texas (red state government, lots of blue and purple areas like the Austin area I'm in). No state income tax and, until you get fairly far outside of the metro area, none of the stuff you're talking about. Pretty good mix of views in the context of what I'd consider a good culture and environment relative to many places.

Whenever one is in an extreme area, one experiences that ... extremes. Of course it seems nuts, since it is. I've spent a fair amount of time in the paradigmatic opposite location of what you're describing in Kansas and, unsurprisingly, there were a lot of extreme views and positions on a lot of things that I could spend all day complaining about on here, too. The broader issue is a general lack of empathy and an us/them mentality on both "sides." "Let's come together" only is the message on either side when someone is trying to get something (money, votes, power).

I'm just running out the string before I retire. We are planning to move to a warmer climate when we get to retirement age. If I didn't have a great job working for a great company, I'd be gone already.