Musk / Trump press conference should be must watch for every taxpayer....

[-lowcountrydawg]

Musk should do more of those. Makes everyone who is trying to keep him from even looking for government waste look really stupid. Dude is incredibly smart, and nothing he is discussing is complicated. Unlike politicians, he admits they will make mistakes, and he invites everyone to fact check and challenge any of their cuts. If they make a mistake, they will quickly correct it.

Bottom line - these aren't incompetent jackasses or greedy assholes looking for personal gain. They are simply trying to save all of us money.

My favorite line, from Musk - my goal is to cut $1T of spending and get $1T of growth (i.e. receipts)......bringing interest rates down and keeping inflation flat. "Think about how great that would be for Americans." I doubt that happens, but what if he gets $500B and $500B? You realize how that would move the needle for all of us?

But hey - let's stop these "evil billionaires!" The opposition is such an obvious case of clinging to the way government has always worked, and when looking at conflicts of interest, look no further than those in power who benefit from government spending. The worst thing for Tesla (aka Musk) financially is the Trump admin. Oil production, elimination of EV mandates, China tariffs - all terrible policy for Tesla.

 

[seatonsdawgs]

Common sense…

 

[willdup]

Musk should do more of those. Makes everyone who is trying to keep him from even looking for government waste look really stupid. Dude is incredibly smart, and nothing he is discussing is complicated. Unlike politicians, he admits they will make mistakes, and he invites everyone to fact check and challenge any of their cuts. If they make a mistake, they will quickly correct it.

Bottom line - these aren't incompetent jackasses or greedy assholes looking for personal gain. They are simply trying to save all of us money.

My favorite line, from Musk - my goal is to cut $1T of spending and get $1T of growth (i.e. receipts)......bringing interest rates down and keeping inflation flat. "Think about how great that would be for Americans." I doubt that happens, but what if he gets $500B and $500B? You realize how that would move the needle for all of us?

But hey - let's stop these "evil billionaires!" The opposition is such an obvious case of clinging to the way government has always worked, and when looking at conflicts of interest, look no further than those in power who benefit from government spending. The worst thing for Tesla (aka Musk) financially is the Trump admin. Oil production, elimination of EV mandates, China tariffs - all terrible policy for Tesla.

49.2% of the vote, a slim majority in the Senate and the slimmest majority in the House in almost one hundred years is not a mandate from the voters to completely destroy or defund major programs or departments. Elon and Trump repeating it over and over again doesn't make it true.

Oh, and Musk admitted the condoms to Gaza story was a lie, while acknowledging that his statements in the future will continue to require factchecking. How about just making more of an effort to be truthful as you personally decide which programs and spending are worthwhile and which are not?

Musk has gotten exactly what he spent $280m to get. Maybe the wealthiest man in the world, who continues to own and run three for-profit business (one of which will live or die based entirely on US government policy and dollars) and has vowed to become the world’s first trillionaire, will in fact operate as a benign benefactor, driven only by the best interests on the country as a whole. Wouldn’t that be neat.

 

[55dawg]

49.2% of the vote, a slim majority in the Senate and the slimmest majority in the House in almost one hundred years is not a mandate from the voters to completely destroy or defund major programs or departments. Elon and Trump repeating it over and over again doesn't make it true.

Oh, and Musk admitted the condoms to Gaza story was a lie, while acknowledging that his statements in the future will continue to require factchecking. How about just making more of an effort to be truthful as you personally decide which programs and spending are worthwhile and which are not?

Musk has gotten exactly what he spent $280m to get. Maybe the wealthiest man in the world, who continues to own and run three for-profit business (one of which will live or die based entirely on US government policy and dollars) and has vowed to become the world’s first trillionaire, will in fact operate as a benign benefactor, driven only by the best interests on the country as a whole. Wouldn’t that be neat.

$36 trillion deficit is a mandate. Sorry friend.

 

[jlstone412]

$36 trillion deficit is a mandate. Sorry friend.

Would be lower if not for trump 1.0....my friend...

 

[55dawg]

Would be lower if not for trump 1.0....my friend...

Agree

 

[Booneville Dawg]

Interesting polls that have come out in the last few days:
CNN this morning--Trump approval up from 46% to 53%, Public approval of Trump following through on pledges 70%
CBS on Sunday--Public approval of DOGE efforts to find corruption 80%, Democratic Party approval rating 31%
PEW Institute last week---Public approval of immigration policy and deportation 85%, Public approval of Gaza initiative 30%, public approval of Birthright citizenship executive order 44%

​

It may be time the progressives take heed in what Axelrod, Carville, and Emanuel have been telling them the past week. ​

​

CNN’s Harry Entin stunned by Trump’s high approval ratings: ‘Whoa, whoa, whoa!’​

Story by Ariel Zilber
• 1d • 3 min read

CNN commentators expressed shock over President Trump’s high approval ratings in his return to the White House.

Harry Enten, the network’s senior data reporter and political analyst, noted that Trump’s approval numbers for his first three weeks in office have already exceeded those during his first.

“Whoa, whoa, whoa! Just 11 days, Donald Trump had a net positive approval rating” during his first term, Enten said during a segment of Monday’s “CNN News Central” with co-anchor Sara Sidner.

Enten then noted, “Every single day of Trump’s second term so far, he has been on the positive side of the ledger. Twenty-one days, all three weeks. That’s already 10 more days than it was in his entire first term!”

His comments were reported by Mediaite.

Trump’s approval ratings have surged to historic highs, marking a stark contrast from his first term, according to a new CBS News poll.

Trump has reached a 53% approval rating, according to the poll — a level he never consistently saw during his previous stint in office.
The shift signals that Americans may be more aligned with his leadership the second time around — with many believing he is delivering on his promises.

In April 2017, only 46% of Americans believed he was following through on his pledges, but by February 2025, that number had surged to 70%.
“You know, I think one of the things that’s so important for politicians is for folks to believe what they’re saying and that they’re keeping their campaign promises,” Enten sold Sidner on Monday.

“So I think this gives you a pretty gosh darn good idea of what may be going on.”

This marks the first time he has hit that number in his former home state since December 2016, with strong voter support for his crackdown on illegal immigration driving the surge.

According to the CBS News/YouGov poll, 70% of respondents believe Trump is keeping his promises, a striking increase from the 46% who said the same in April 2017.

Trump’s approval rating in New York reached 41%, matching his highest-ever level in the deep-blue state, according to a Siena College poll released last week.

His deportation efforts have received 59% approval, while his decision to send troops to the US-Mexico border is backed by 64% of Americans, according to the poll.

Trump’s foreign policy approach to the Israel-Hamas war gained a 54% approval rating.

While his administration’s bold moves have earned praise from many, they have also drawn criticism from those who believe he is straying too far from traditional policy frameworks.

Democrats, meanwhile, have struggled to gain traction in countering Trump’s governance style.

Some have accused him of deviating from his promises, particularly in his appointment of Elon Musk to lead the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).

hey argue that Musk has been given too much power to overhaul bureaucratic systems and reshape government operations.

However, the CBS/YouGov poll suggests that the public supports Musk’s role, with 51% of Americans wanting him to have at least some influence in government operations and spending.

Unlike his predecessor President Joe Biden, Trump has maintained a direct and highly visible presence. Before the Super Bowl, Trump granted an interview to the Fox network — a longstanding tradition that was shunned by Biden the past two years.

Trump regularly fields questions from reporters aboard Air Force One and inside the Oval Office, a departure from the more scripted approach of the Biden administration.

This active engagement seems to resonate with Americans, who describe him as tough (69%), energetic (63%), focused (60%) and effective (58%).

However, some of those surveyed expressed disapproval of several Trump policies. Trump’s plans to construct large deportation facilities are opposed by 52% of respondents, according to the poll.

Economic concerns remain prevalent, with 66% of Americans believing he is not focused enough on lowering the cost of living.

His recent plan to take over the Gaza Strip has also been met with skepticism, with only 13% in favor and 47% against the idea.

Unlike his predecessor President Joe Biden, Trump has maintained a direct and highly visible presence. Before the Super Bowl, Trump granted an interview to the Fox network — a longstanding tradition that was shunned by Biden the past two years.

Trump regularly fields questions from reporters aboard Air Force One and inside the Oval Office, a departure from the more scripted approach of the Biden administration.

This active engagement seems to resonate with Americans, who describe him as tough (69%), energetic (63%), focused (60%) and effective (58%).

However, some of those surveyed expressed disapproval of several Trump policies. Trump’s plans to construct large deportation facilities are opposed by 52% of respondents, according to the poll.

Economic concerns remain prevalent, with 66% of Americans believing he is not focused enough on lowering the cost of living.

His recent plan to take over the Gaza Strip has also been met with skepticism, with only 13% in favor and 47% against the idea.

 

[-lowcountrydawg]

49.2% of the vote, a slim majority in the Senate and the slimmest majority in the House in almost one hundred years is not a mandate from the voters to completely destroy or defund major programs or departments. Elon and Trump repeating it over and over again doesn't make it true.

Oh, and Musk admitted the condoms to Gaza story was a lie, while acknowledging that his statements in the future will continue to require factchecking. How about just making more of an effort to be truthful as you personally decide which programs and spending are worthwhile and which are not?

Musk has gotten exactly what he spent $280m to get. Maybe the wealthiest man in the world, who continues to own and run three for-profit business (one of which will live or die based entirely on US government policy and dollars) and has vowed to become the world’s first trillionaire, will in fact operate as a benign benefactor, driven only by the best interests on the country as a whole. Wouldn’t that be neat.

1). Did you watch the PC? You are a smart guy. There was nothing in that PC that should do anything but have Americans nodding in approval and address the panic sound bites from the left.

2) The issue of government waste and a desire to audit and cut it out is near universal. It is about accountability. That’s it.

3) If and when good uses of dollars are cut and impact the majority of Americans negatively, let me know. Until then like most things in the Trump admin, let it play out and see how the real outcome compares to the doomsday prognostications.

I would argue as it relates to mandates, Trumps 50 percent is anchored by tens of millions of folks who just couldn’t vote for the man but agree with the policy.

Let it play out. To date all that has been done is an effort to find government waste. If it turns into something bad we will all know it. About time we took a private sector fiduciary and accountability approach to government.

 

[-lowcountrydawg]

Would be lower if not for trump 1.0....my friend...

And the unanimous Covid stimulus had nothing to do with that.

 

[Southern_brand]

49.2% of the vote, a slim majority in the Senate and the slimmest majority in the House in almost one hundred years is not a mandate from the voters to completely destroy or defund major programs or departments. Elon and Trump repeating it over and over again doesn't make it true.

Oh, and Musk admitted the condoms to Gaza story was a lie, while acknowledging that his statements in the future will continue to require factchecking. How about just making more of an effort to be truthful as you personally decide which programs and spending are worthwhile and which are not?

Musk has gotten exactly what he spent $280m to get. Maybe the wealthiest man in the world, who continues to own and run three for-profit business (one of which will live or die based entirely on US government policy and dollars) and has vowed to become the world’s first trillionaire, will in fact operate as a benign benefactor, driven only by the best interests on the country as a whole. Wouldn’t that be neat.

Y’all kill me with this “not a mandate” stuff. The way in which Trump won the election, flipping counties that haven’t been flipped in decades and bringing blue states much closer to the red than they have been in the past, and then also securing a red senate and red house, is surely a mandate from the American people that change was needed. And one of Trump’s campaign points was to do with Musk exactly what’s being done….. I trust Trump and Elon Musk far more than I trust any mainstream new source or any Congress person.

 

[-lowcountrydawg]

Y’all kill me with this “not a mandate” stuff. The way in which Trump won the election, flipping counties that haven’t been flipped in decades and bringing blue states much closer to the red than they have been in the past, and then also securing a red senate and red house, is surely a mandate from the American people that change was needed. And one of Trump’s campaign points was to do with Musk exactly what’s being done….. I trust Trump and Elon Musk far more than I trust any mainstream new source or any Congress person.

To say nothing of the tens of millions who wholeheartedly agree with his America first agenda but hate the person so couldn’t vote for him.

 

[-lowcountrydawg]

Interesting polls that have come out in the last few days:
CNN this morning--Trump approval up from 46% to 53%, Public approval of Trump following through on pledges 70%
CBS on Sunday--Public approval of DOGE efforts to find corruption 80%, Democratic Party approval rating 31%
PEW Institute last week---Public approval of immigration policy and deportation 85%, Public approval of Gaza initiative 30%, public approval of Birthright citizenship executive order 44%

​

It may be time the progressives take heed in what Axelrod, Carville, and Emanuel have been telling them the past week. ​

​

CNN’s Harry Entin stunned by Trump’s high approval ratings: ‘Whoa, whoa, whoa!’​

Story by Ariel Zilber
• 1d • 3 min read

CNN commentators expressed shock over President Trump’s high approval ratings in his return to the White House.

Harry Enten, the network’s senior data reporter and political analyst, noted that Trump’s approval numbers for his first three weeks in office have already exceeded those during his first.

“Whoa, whoa, whoa! Just 11 days, Donald Trump had a net positive approval rating” during his first term, Enten said during a segment of Monday’s “CNN News Central” with co-anchor Sara Sidner.

Enten then noted, “Every single day of Trump’s second term so far, he has been on the positive side of the ledger. Twenty-one days, all three weeks. That’s already 10 more days than it was in his entire first term!”

His comments were reported by Mediaite.

Trump’s approval ratings have surged to historic highs, marking a stark contrast from his first term, according to a new CBS News poll.

Trump has reached a 53% approval rating, according to the poll — a level he never consistently saw during his previous stint in office.
The shift signals that Americans may be more aligned with his leadership the second time around — with many believing he is delivering on his promises.

In April 2017, only 46% of Americans believed he was following through on his pledges, but by February 2025, that number had surged to 70%.
“You know, I think one of the things that’s so important for politicians is for folks to believe what they’re saying and that they’re keeping their campaign promises,” Enten sold Sidner on Monday.

“So I think this gives you a pretty gosh darn good idea of what may be going on.”

This marks the first time he has hit that number in his former home state since December 2016, with strong voter support for his crackdown on illegal immigration driving the surge.

According to the CBS News/YouGov poll, 70% of respondents believe Trump is keeping his promises, a striking increase from the 46% who said the same in April 2017.

Trump’s approval rating in New York reached 41%, matching his highest-ever level in the deep-blue state, according to a Siena College poll released last week.

His deportation efforts have received 59% approval, while his decision to send troops to the US-Mexico border is backed by 64% of Americans, according to the poll.

Trump’s foreign policy approach to the Israel-Hamas war gained a 54% approval rating.

While his administration’s bold moves have earned praise from many, they have also drawn criticism from those who believe he is straying too far from traditional policy frameworks.

Democrats, meanwhile, have struggled to gain traction in countering Trump’s governance style.

Some have accused him of deviating from his promises, particularly in his appointment of Elon Musk to lead the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).

hey argue that Musk has been given too much power to overhaul bureaucratic systems and reshape government operations.

However, the CBS/YouGov poll suggests that the public supports Musk’s role, with 51% of Americans wanting him to have at least some influence in government operations and spending.

Unlike his predecessor President Joe Biden, Trump has maintained a direct and highly visible presence. Before the Super Bowl, Trump granted an interview to the Fox network — a longstanding tradition that was shunned by Biden the past two years.

Trump regularly fields questions from reporters aboard Air Force One and inside the Oval Office, a departure from the more scripted approach of the Biden administration.

This active engagement seems to resonate with Americans, who describe him as tough (69%), energetic (63%), focused (60%) and effective (58%).

However, some of those surveyed expressed disapproval of several Trump policies. Trump’s plans to construct large deportation facilities are opposed by 52% of respondents, according to the poll.

Economic concerns remain prevalent, with 66% of Americans believing he is not focused enough on lowering the cost of living.

His recent plan to take over the Gaza Strip has also been met with skepticism, with only 13% in favor and 47% against the idea.

Unlike his predecessor President Joe Biden, Trump has maintained a direct and highly visible presence. Before the Super Bowl, Trump granted an interview to the Fox network — a longstanding tradition that was shunned by Biden the past two years.

Trump regularly fields questions from reporters aboard Air Force One and inside the Oval Office, a departure from the more scripted approach of the Biden administration.

This active engagement seems to resonate with Americans, who describe him as tough (69%), energetic (63%), focused (60%) and effective (58%).

However, some of those surveyed expressed disapproval of several Trump policies. Trump’s plans to construct large deportation facilities are opposed by 52% of respondents, according to the poll.

Economic concerns remain prevalent, with 66% of Americans believing he is not focused enough on lowering the cost of living.

His recent plan to take over the Gaza Strip has also been met with skepticism, with only 13% in favor and 47% against the idea.

I honestly believe most of that bump comes from the shock and awe of actually seeing some competence and effectiveness in leadership. And God forbid put himself out there and answer to the American people. Transparency.

Folks forgot what that was like, and I think there are many who aren’t even huge fans of him or his actual policy, but see how effective he can be.

Love him or hate him you have to admit that he can lead and get results. Hostages. Middle East. And you just know that Russia / Ukraine is right around the corner. Dude gets shit done.

 

[TivoliDawg]

I honestly believe most of that bump comes from the shock and awe of actually seeing some competence and effectiveness in leadership. And God forbid put himself out there and answer to the American people. Transparency.

Folks forgot what that was like, and I think there are many who aren’t even huge fans of him or his actual policy, but see how effective he can be.

Love him or hate him you have to admit that he can lead and get results. Hostages. Middle East. And you just know that Russia / Ukraine is right around the corner. Dude gets shit done.

He is doing what he he said he would do. I am actually surprised. You don’t see that in policitians anymore.

Few are harder on Trump than me, but I admire that.

 

[PotimusWillie]

1). Did you watch the PC? You are a smart guy. There was nothing in that PC that should do anything but have Americans nodding in approval and address the panic sound bites from the left.

2) The issue of government waste and a desire to audit and cut it out is near universal. It is about accountability. That’s it.

3) If and when good uses of dollars are cut and impact the majority of Americans negatively, let me know. Until then like most things in the Trump admin, let it play out and see how the real outcome compares to the doomsday prognostications.

I would argue as it relates to mandates, Trumps 50 percent is anchored by tens of millions of folks who just couldn’t vote for the man but agree with the policy.

Let it play out. To date all that has been done is an effort to find government waste. If it turns into something bad we will all know it. About time we took a private sector fiduciary and accountability approach to government.

Outstanding post. Logical truth

 

[55dawg]

And the unanimous Covid stimulus had nothing to do with that.

of course it did. But regardless, that’s was just a stupid argument. Should we just continue to increase the $36 trillion deficit because previous presidents increased it ? Of course not.

 

[Booneville Dawg]

To say nothing of the tens of millions who wholeheartedly agree with his America first agenda but hate the person so couldn’t vote for him.

 

[ClydeDawg]

Musk should do more of those. Makes everyone who is trying to keep him from even looking for government waste look really stupid. Dude is incredibly smart, and nothing he is discussing is complicated. Unlike politicians, he admits they will make mistakes, and he invites everyone to fact check and challenge any of their cuts. If they make a mistake, they will quickly correct it.

Bottom line - these aren't incompetent jackasses or greedy assholes looking for personal gain. They are simply trying to save all of us money.

My favorite line, from Musk - my goal is to cut $1T of spending and get $1T of growth (i.e. receipts)......bringing interest rates down and keeping inflation flat. "Think about how great that would be for Americans." I doubt that happens, but what if he gets $500B and $500B? You realize how that would move the needle for all of us?

But hey - let's stop these "evil billionaires!" The opposition is such an obvious case of clinging to the way government has always worked, and when looking at conflicts of interest, look no further than those in power who benefit from government spending. The worst thing for Tesla (aka Musk) financially is the Trump admin. Oil production, elimination of EV mandates, China tariffs - all terrible policy for Tesla.

How does anyone argue w this? TDS and liberalism are mental illnesses.

 

[ClydeDawg]

Would be lower if not for trump 1.0....my friend...

So we should ignore it going forward? Makes perfect sense.

 

[celticdawg]

49.2% of the vote, a slim majority in the Senate and the slimmest majority in the House in almost one hundred years is not a mandate from the voters to completely destroy or defund major programs or departments. Elon and Trump repeating it over and over again doesn't make it true.

Oh, and Musk admitted the condoms to Gaza story was a lie, while acknowledging that his statements in the future will continue to require factchecking. How about just making more of an effort to be truthful as you personally decide which programs and spending are worthwhile and which are not?

Musk has gotten exactly what he spent $280m to get. Maybe the wealthiest man in the world, who continues to own and run three for-profit business (one of which will live or die based entirely on US government policy and dollars) and has vowed to become the world’s first trillionaire, will in fact operate as a benign benefactor, driven only by the best interests on the country as a whole. Wouldn’t that be neat.

But, but, I won all seven swing states - take that.

He only won because Biden and Harris were incompetent, but that doesn't make him competent. I don't care what early opinion polls say, but a number of groups that voted for him are questioning what he is doing. If you are not aware you are listening to or reading biased sources. Try and get a balance.

He didn't get a mandate to stop making pennies (did you know it costs 14 cents to make a nickel?) or bring back plastic straws. Have I missed how he is closing the borders (the Mexican and Canadian troops aren't go to do it}.

Anything being done to reduce the cost of goods? If we need to make more goods here, especially those produced in China which I would like to see, prices are going to go up on many items. That might be in our best long term interests, but I'm not sure people will except that.

I totally agree there is waste in the government. Lots of it; I don't think anybody disagrees with that. We need more accountability of the people working in the government. I can't agree with the way they are going about it. Trying to get rid of huge organizations doesn't make sense. They have to be doing something relevant and I don't hear that they are taking that into account. No, just another midnight Executive Order (whether it's legal or not) without giving it much thought (that's his style). And he doesn't care if it's good for the environment. Cities who have banned the plastic are now left saying what the hell is he doing. He's also cancelled a huge report due to be released concerning the state of the country and part of that would be environmental issues but he doesn't let that get in his way. Fortunately, most of it is written and they are trying to find a way to get it published.

Obviously, I can't change things, so I'm going to hope for the best. So far I haven't been harmed, but feel the country has. It will be interesting to see what the balance of power between the branches looks like in the near future.

 

[cherrydawg]

49.2% of the vote, a slim majority in the Senate and the slimmest majority in the House in almost one hundred years is not a mandate from the voters to completely destroy or defund major programs or departments. Elon and Trump repeating it over and over again doesn't make it true.

Oh, and Musk admitted the condoms to Gaza story was a lie, while acknowledging that his statements in the future will continue to require factchecking. How about just making more of an effort to be truthful as you personally decide which programs and spending are worthwhile and which are not?

Musk has gotten exactly what he spent $280m to get. Maybe the wealthiest man in the world, who continues to own and run three for-profit business (one of which will live or die based entirely on US government policy and dollars) and has vowed to become the world’s first trillionaire, will in fact operate as a benign benefactor, driven only by the best interests on the country as a whole. Wouldn’t that be neat.

Yeah you tell them will, lets keep spending money we don't have and go deeper and deeper in debt. I bet your business is a wreck if you run it the way you and the dims want to run America.

 

[cherrydawg]

Would be lower if not for trump 1.0....my friend...

TDS TDS TDS TDS

 

[cherrydawg]

But, but, I won all seven swing states - take that.

He only won because Biden and Harris were incompetent, but that doesn't make him competent. I don't care what early opinion polls say, but a number of groups that voted for him are questioning what he is doing. If you are not aware you are listening to or reading biased sources. Try and get a balance.

He didn't get a mandate to stop making pennies (did you know it costs 14 cents to make a nickel?) or bring back plastic straws. Have I missed how he is closing the borders (the Mexican and Canadian troops aren't go to do it}.

Anything being done to reduce the cost of goods? If we need to make more goods here, especially those produced in China which I would like to see, prices are going to go up on many items. That might be in our best long term interests, but I'm not sure people will except that.

I totally agree there is waste in the government. Lots of it; I don't think anybody disagrees with that. We need more accountability of the people working in the government. I can't agree with the way they are going about it. Trying to get rid of huge organizations doesn't make sense. They have to be doing something relevant and I don't hear that they are taking that into account. No, just another midnight Executive Order (whether it's legal or not) without giving it much thought (that's his style). And he doesn't care if it's good for the environment. Cities who have banned the plastic are now left saying what the hell is he doing. He's also cancelled a huge report due to be released concerning the state of the country and part of that would be environmental issues but he doesn't let that get in his way. Fortunately, most of it is written and they are trying to find a way to get it published.

Obviously, I can't change things, so I'm going to hope for the best. So far I haven't been harmed, but feel the country has. It will be interesting to see what the balance of power between the branches looks like in the near future.

Your TDS is really active today. LOL this post will go down in history but not for a good reason... LOL

 

[CCSouth]

Would be lower if not for trump 1.0....my friend...

Dumb post of the day award

 

[Lava-Man]

Would be lower if not for trump 1.0....my friend...

In fiscal year 2018, the total U.S. federal budget involved expenditures of approximately $4.11 trillion.
In fiscal year 2019, total U.S. federal expenditures were approximately $4.45 trillion

In fiscal year 2022, total tax revenue for the United States reached approximately $4.9 trillion.

Total U.S. federal budget expenditures in fiscal year 2024 were approximately $6.75 trillion.

Not having a balanced budget was a CHOICE. What happened? I'll let everyone figure out where we were spending our money between 2020-2024...how much of that was a choice...and how we could return to some semblance of fiscal responsibility.

 

[ClydeDawg]

But, but, I won all seven swing states - take that.

He only won because Biden and Harris were incompetent, but that doesn't make him competent. I don't care what early opinion polls say, but a number of groups that voted for him are questioning what he is doing. If you are not aware you are listening to or reading biased sources. Try and get a balance.

He didn't get a mandate to stop making pennies (did you know it costs 14 cents to make a nickel?) or bring back plastic straws. Have I missed how he is closing the borders (the Mexican and Canadian troops aren't go to do it}.

Anything being done to reduce the cost of goods? If we need to make more goods here, especially those produced in China which I would like to see, prices are going to go up on many items. That might be in our best long term interests, but I'm not sure people will except that.

I totally agree there is waste in the government. Lots of it; I don't think anybody disagrees with that. We need more accountability of the people working in the government. I can't agree with the way they are going about it. Trying to get rid of huge organizations doesn't make sense. They have to be doing something relevant and I don't hear that they are taking that into account. No, just another midnight Executive Order (whether it's legal or not) without giving it much thought (that's his style). And he doesn't care if it's good for the environment. Cities who have banned the plastic are now left saying what the hell is he doing. He's also cancelled a huge report due to be released concerning the state of the country and part of that would be environmental issues but he doesn't let that get in his way. Fortunately, most of it is written and they are trying to find a way to get it published.

Obviously, I can't change things, so I'm going to hope for the best. So far I haven't been harmed, but feel the country has. It will be interesting to see what the balance of power between the branches looks like in the near future.

He's doing the things he said he would do. Nobody gives a **** about straws and pennies. Unusual in politics.

 

[Lava-Man]

I don't care what early opinion polls say, but a number of groups that voted for him are questioning what he is doing.

That doesn't make any sense. Literally all the opinion polls approve of what he's doing. What "unpolled" groups are not happy? Do you have any data to back up your assertion?

 

[litedawg1968]

49.2% of the vote, a slim majority in the Senate and the slimmest majority in the House in almost one hundred years is not a mandate from the voters to completely destroy or defund major programs or departments. Elon and Trump repeating it over and over again doesn't make it true.

Oh, and Musk admitted the condoms to Gaza story was a lie, while acknowledging that his statements in the future will continue to require factchecking. How about just making more of an effort to be truthful as you personally decide which programs and spending are worthwhile and which are not?

Musk has gotten exactly what he spent $280m to get. Maybe the wealthiest man in the world, who continues to own and run three for-profit business (one of which will live or die based entirely on US government policy and dollars) and has vowed to become the world’s first trillionaire, will in fact operate as a benign benefactor, driven only by the best interests on the country as a whole. Wouldn’t that be neat.

Every freaking swing state and Harris did not do better than Joe Biden did in 2020 in any county in the country.

We are going to find out just how corrupt DC is, and all the Dems do is bitch and mean. Deal with it.

 

[litedawg1968]

But, but, I won all seven swing states - take that.

He only won because Biden and Harris were incompetent, but that doesn't make him competent. I don't care what early opinion polls say, but a number of groups that voted for him are questioning what he is doing. If you are not aware you are listening to or reading biased sources. Try and get a balance.

He didn't get a mandate to stop making pennies (did you know it costs 14 cents to make a nickel?) or bring back plastic straws. Have I missed how he is closing the borders (the Mexican and Canadian troops aren't go to do it}.

Anything being done to reduce the cost of goods? If we need to make more goods here, especially those produced in China which I would like to see, prices are going to go up on many items. That might be in our best long term interests, but I'm not sure people will except that.

I totally agree there is waste in the government. Lots of it; I don't think anybody disagrees with that. We need more accountability of the people working in the government. I can't agree with the way they are going about it. Trying to get rid of huge organizations doesn't make sense. They have to be doing something relevant and I don't hear that they are taking that into account. No, just another midnight Executive Order (whether it's legal or not) without giving it much thought (that's his style). And he doesn't care if it's good for the environment. Cities who have banned the plastic are now left saying what the hell is he doing. He's also cancelled a huge report due to be released concerning the state of the country and part of that would be environmental issues but he doesn't let that get in his way. Fortunately, most of it is written and they are trying to find a way to get it published.

Obviously, I can't change things, so I'm going to hope for the best. So far I haven't been harmed, but feel the country has. It will be interesting to see what the balance of power between the branches looks like in the near future.

It wouid be impossible for Trump to do more damage than Biden did.

Ukraine - destroyed millions dead and country turned to rubble , by Victoria Nuland etc.
Gaza - destroyed , thousands killed and country turned to rubble
Southern border - destroyed
Billions stolen
Pardons for his family
Illegal student loan forgiveness
Billions spent on illegals and the NGOS that brought them here

I could go on.

 

[celticdawg]

It wouid be impossible for Trump to do more damage than Biden did.

Ukraine - destroyed millions dead and country turned to rubble , by Victoria Nuland etc.
Gaza - destroyed , thousands killed and country turned to rubble
Southern border - destroyed
Billions stolen
Pardons for his family
Illegal student loan forgiveness
Billions spent on illegals and the NGOS that brought them here

I could go on.

So why should Trump do any damage? And I am concerned about our country, not Ukraine or Gaza. Pardons for his family haven't done any damage. Actually, Trump's pardons on some of the January 6th felons did more damage, but I am not even talking about that.

You just seem hung up on Biden.

 

[DallasDawg225]

49.2% of the vote, a slim majority in the Senate and the slimmest majority in the House in almost one hundred years is not a mandate from the voters to completely destroy or defund major programs or departments. Elon and Trump repeating it over and over again doesn't make it true.

Oh, and Musk admitted the condoms to Gaza story was a lie, while acknowledging that his statements in the future will continue to require factchecking. How about just making more of an effort to be truthful as you personally decide which programs and spending are worthwhile and which are not?

Musk has gotten exactly what he spent $280m to get. Maybe the wealthiest man in the world, who continues to own and run three for-profit business (one of which will live or die based entirely on US government policy and dollars) and has vowed to become the world’s first trillionaire, will in fact operate as a benign benefactor, driven only by the best interests on the country as a whole. Wouldn’t that be neat.

Where the hell ya been @wildup? It’s insane at all the money Elon/DOGE are saving the American taxpayer & libs still bitch! Good Lord, if Trump/Elon found the cure to cancer libs would find a way to spin it into a negative. Libs are a special kind of stupid.

 

[RedcoatOf94]

Musk should do more of those. Makes everyone who is trying to keep him from even looking for government waste look really stupid. Dude is incredibly smart, and nothing he is discussing is complicated. Unlike politicians, he admits they will make mistakes, and he invites everyone to fact check and challenge any of their cuts. If they make a mistake, they will quickly correct it.

Bottom line - these aren't incompetent jackasses or greedy assholes looking for personal gain. They are simply trying to save all of us money.

My favorite line, from Musk - my goal is to cut $1T of spending and get $1T of growth (i.e. receipts)......bringing interest rates down and keeping inflation flat. "Think about how great that would be for Americans." I doubt that happens, but what if he gets $500B and $500B? You realize how that would move the needle for all of us?

But hey - let's stop these "evil billionaires!" The opposition is such an obvious case of clinging to the way government has always worked, and when looking at conflicts of interest, look no further than those in power who benefit from government spending. The worst thing for Tesla (aka Musk) financially is the Trump admin. Oil production, elimination of EV mandates, China tariffs - all terrible policy for Tesla.

Press conference was awesome. Biden never spoke so clearly to the American people in his whole time as president, and Elon makes Kamala and AOC look like friggin idiots.

 

[litedawg1968]

So why should Trump do any damage? And I am concerned about our country, not Ukraine or Gaza. Pardons for his family haven't done any damage. Actually, Trump's pardons on some of the January 6th felons did more damage, but I am not even talking about that.

You just seem hung up on Biden.

There is not one person in the US thats hung up on Biden.

He was just the POTUS, so its hard not to use him as a point of reference, seeing as he just left 3 WEEKS AGO lol.

 

[ugaboz]

So why should Trump do any damage? And I am concerned about our country, not Ukraine or Gaza. Pardons for his family haven't done any damage. Actually, Trump's pardons on some of the January 6th felons did more damage, but I am not even talking about that.

You just seem hung up on Biden.

jan 6th lol

 

[celticdawg]

There is not one person in the US thats hung up on Biden.

He was just the POTUS, so its hard not to use him as a point of reference, seeing as he just left 3 WEEKS AGO lol.

That's funny. People got criticized for mentioning Trump after he lost - short memories.

Have you listened to Trump? He sure seems hung up on Biden.

 

[celticdawg]

jan 6th lol

Oh yeah, that was a funny day. Beat a law enforcement officer and get away with it. I'm sure you are proud of that

 

[ugaboz]

Oh yeah, that was a funny day. Beat a law enforcement officer and get away with it. I'm sure you are proud of that

how long will you be upset?
I will wait

 

[ugaboz]

That's funny. People got criticized for mentioning Trump after he lost - short memories.

Have you listened to Trump? He sure seems hung up on Biden.

you wanted kamelo to win lol
come on you now how dumb that is
go sit in the corner and think about that

 

[ugaboz]

There is not one person in the US thats hung up on Biden.

He was just the POTUS, so its hard not to use him as a point of reference, seeing as he just left 3 WEEKS AGO lol.

trump has been living rent-free for a long time in these lib's minds
they really cannot get over it

 

[celticdawg]

how long will you be upset?
I will wait

I will always consider that one of the worst things he did. Why would it get better with time? And you didn't tell me if you are proud of what Trump did (causing January 6th and pardoning people who beat law enforcement officers). Are you proud?

you wanted kamelo to win lol
come on you now how dumb that is
go sit in the corner and think about that

No, I wanted Trump to lose. I think that was very smart. And you didn't respond to me asking if you listened to Trump. Are you capable of an actual discussion or just posting infantile comments?

 

[Lava-Man]

Are you capable of an actual discussion or just posting infantile comments?

It's certainly not helpful and distracts from valid points.