Don't forget that each of these programs has important congressional supporters, in some cases even people who pretend to be conservative. This is just one more example of why we need term limits, short ones, based on total service in the Senate and House COMBINED. 12 years total in DC is enough to make anyone's brain addled.

You are correct, but it points out the folly of any public enterprise. Government undertakings of any kind are always influenced more by politics than by what really needs to be done. Thus, ineffective programs like Head Start are continued for decades despite repeated studies showing that the benefits disappear after a few years. This is one of many arguments in favor of smaller, much smaller, government, especially at the national level.

All monopolies, public or private, eventually fail. Public monopolies are particularly bad because they are endlessly subsidized with taxpayer money. At least private monopolies go out of business if they continuously lose money, unless, of course, they manage to get on the public teet.

First, he needs someone who will help him win. Rubio would be the best in that regard. Rice would insure defeat.

We ought to get out of the UN. Maybe Bolton could bring that about?

He's no more green than Obama, and his philosophy is a lot better. Of course, that's not a very high bar.

Who says Rubio is not eligible, besides you? Any court cases?

The base would revolt if Rice were selected. She is way too liberal. Moreover, her national security experience seemed more a series of flops than anything else. She would be a Republican version of Biden; lots of experience but learned nothing.

Your choices for President in 2012 are Obama and Romney. Not voting is a vote for Obama. Which of the two do you want to be President for the next 4 years? I think Obama will destroy our country in 4 more years, so I will vote for Romney. Seems very simple to me.

West is a good man and would be a good choice, but either Rubio or Ryan would contribute more toward a victory in November. Romney needs a pit bull covered in velvet for a VP; you know, someone tough as nails and aggressive on the inside, but smooth and appearing soft on the outside. West is tough, but he appears tough, not soft and smooth.