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You are here: Home / Economics / C.R.E.A.M. / Friday Evening Open Thread: Ryancare — It’s Terrible for Everybody

Friday Evening Open Thread: Ryancare — It’s Terrible for Everybody

by Anne Laurie|  March 10, 20177:31 pm| 178 Comments

This post is in: C.R.E.A.M., Open Threads, Republican Venality, Ryan Lyin' Weasel, World's Best Healthcare (If You Can Afford It), Zombie-Eyed Granny Starver, Ever Get The Feeling You've Been Cheated?

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This seems true. pic.twitter.com/AaSM8egY0e

— Matthew Yglesias (@mattyglesias) March 9, 2017


.

Even — it is devoutly to be hoped — the Zombie-Eyed Granny Starver’s reputation?

That would be a lovely coda to trashing the GOP’s whole misbegotten “AHCA” (Always Helping Cronies Accumulate) no-health, no-hope plan.

What else is on the agenda as we start the weekend?

Ryan: The whole idea of Obamacare is…the people who are healthy pay for the…sick. It's not working, & that's why it's in a death spiral pic.twitter.com/ztTXrn7bpH

— David Mack (@davidmackau) March 9, 2017

I feel like there was a big political movement in the late 30's that had similar disdain for the weak and sick. https://t.co/2ko3bvhVZN

— Schooley (@Rschooley) March 9, 2017

Our plan will modernize #Medicaid to protect the most vulnerable. #ReadTheBill

— Paul Ryan (@SpeakerRyan) March 7, 2017

We both know that's not what John Galt says. https://t.co/e7MNOy97n0

— Richard M. Nixon (@dick_nixon) March 7, 2017

"Look at them. Look how happy they are. Don't you want them happy?" pic.twitter.com/He40e70Gs6

— Schooley (@Rschooley) March 9, 2017

Like a street preacher — or, say, LaRouche — Ryan knows a policy of his own creation that bears no relation to reality. pic.twitter.com/i2K5PLdRaE

— Richard M. Nixon (@dick_nixon) March 10, 2017

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Reader Interactions

178Comments

  1. 1.

    Major Major Major Major

    March 10, 2017 at 7:35 pm

    Trump supporters protest The Man In The High Castle’s anti-Nazi radio station

    As part of an ad campaign for its original series The Man In The High Castle, Amazon recently launched Resistance Radio, a streaming station set, like the Philip K. Dick adaptation itself, in an alternate 1962 America run by fascists. The pre-recorded program features “bootleg songs” alongside interstitials where underground DJs talk about standing up to Nazis, urging listeners to keep the fight alive in a nation that’s been overrun by fear, oppression, and authoritarian rule. For whatever reason, some conservatives have interpreted this as being about Donald Trump.

    […]

    loyalists with as many as two American flag emojis in their usernames have been bravely standing up to this stupid, leftist, “don’t be a Nazi” claptrap, sneering generally at the prospect of anyone “resisting” anything, and laughing at all those idiots who just don’t get it. Idiots! Don’t these people who exist solely in a fantasy world realize they’re living in some kind of fantasy world?

  2. 2.

    Yarrow

    March 10, 2017 at 7:39 pm

    But his sleeves are rolled up. Don’t you understand he’s down with the working man?

  3. 3.

    Aleta

    March 10, 2017 at 7:41 pm

    Does Ryan describe car insurance as ‘the people who drive safely must pay for the road accidents of other people’ ?? (This isn’t an exact comparison wrt pricing, I know)

  4. 4.

    zhena gogolia

    March 10, 2017 at 7:42 pm

    I hate that stupid widow’s peak of his.

  5. 5.

    Hal

    March 10, 2017 at 7:42 pm

    Um….

    http://www.politico.com/story/2017/03/trump-appointee-muslims-maggots-sid-bowdidge-235945

    President Donald Trump appointed a massage therapist from New Hampshire with no apparent relevant experience to work at the Energy Department, but parted company with the employee Friday after a series of anti-Muslim social media posts came to light, current and former DOE employees tell POLITICO.

    Sid Bowdidge had received a nameplate and taken up residence this week in the director’s office of the agency’s Office of Technology Transitions, a career DOE employee said, but it was not clear precisely when he started or what his job would be. OTT specializes in shepherding research developed at the national labs into the private sector, an area in which Bowdidge didn’t seem to have any experience.

  6. 6.

    Hungry Joe

    March 10, 2017 at 7:43 pm

    Ryan might be the most purely evil of them all. Trump is nuts; Pence is stupid and semi-nuts; Bannon is spittle-flinging lunatic; McConnell’s a venal, greedy old S.O.B. But Ryan — while a Wisconsin mile from smart — isn’t downright dumb. I think he knows that millions of people are going to have their lives ruined, and he’s loving it, just LOVING it.

  7. 7.

    Buskertype

    March 10, 2017 at 7:44 pm

    @Yarrow: “Granny Starver, why are your sleeves rolled up?”
    “All the better to fist you with my dear!”

  8. 8.

    Villago Delenda Est

    March 10, 2017 at 7:45 pm

    @Hungry Joe: Agreed. He’s a mustache twirl away from being in a Dudley Do-Right cartoon.

  9. 9.

    Hal

    March 10, 2017 at 7:47 pm

    Also:

    http://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2017/03/09/you-don-t-have-to-be-gay-doctor-joseph-nicolosi-dies.html

    Ex-gay leader Dr. Joseph Nicolosi died on Wednesday at age 70 from complications of the flu.
    Ryan Kendall, one of Nicolosi’s former patients, is lucky he survived to see 16.
    In a 2012 blog post for the National Center for Lesbian Rights, Kendall recalled being driven to “the brink of suicide” when his parents discovered he was gay and started sending him to weekly sessions with Nicolosi, who according to his résumé specialized in “the treatment of men who wish to diminish their same-sex attractions and develop their heterosexual potential.”

  10. 10.

    MomSense

    March 10, 2017 at 7:47 pm

    RyanCare will likely be my demise but tonight aim forgetting this nightmare. The kids surprised me and are all home with their SOs. They are making dinner, playing music, and serving cocktails. All is perfect in this little corner of the world.

    The pup is super jealous of middle kid’s GF. She keeps getting in between them. So cute.

    MomSense +3

  11. 11.

    Yarrow

    March 10, 2017 at 7:48 pm

    @MomSense: How’s your mom doing? Your evening sounds like fun.

  12. 12.

    Major Major Major Major

    March 10, 2017 at 7:49 pm

    I would also like to drop a link to a great little activity you can do in your browser to unwind, and if you keep going I promise there’s a puppy.

  13. 13.

    Baud

    March 10, 2017 at 7:51 pm

    @MomSense: We will stop them. Enjoy your well deserved evening.

  14. 14.

    MomSense

    March 10, 2017 at 7:54 pm

    @Yarrow:

    She’s staying with her boyfriend and said she is feeling well. Not sure she would tell me if she had another episode.

    It’s wild here. My son is a musician and my middle son’s girlfriend is too so there is a lot of music happening right now. Happy chaos.

  15. 15.

    MomSense

    March 10, 2017 at 7:55 pm

    @Baud:

    Love you, Baud.

  16. 16.

    SiubhanDuinne

    March 10, 2017 at 7:57 pm

    @Major Major Major Major:

    I used to have that, or something very similar, as an iPad app, and I absolutely loved it! When the pad crashed a couple of years ago I lost it and can no longer remember what it was called. I’d give a lot to get it back, but in the meantime I’m bookmarking your link!

  17. 17.

    JPL

    March 10, 2017 at 7:59 pm

    @MomSense: That’s so sweet! Enjoy.

  18. 18.

    Major Major Major Major

    March 10, 2017 at 8:00 pm

    @SiubhanDuinne: Saturation, maybe?

    On that URL you can put any image URL you want after the ? and make one of those btw.

  19. 19.

    Villago Delenda Est

    March 10, 2017 at 8:00 pm

    @Major Major Major Major: It’s like they can actually draw some parallels that make them uncomfortable. They should just say “fuck it” and embrace everything associated with Nazism and get it over with.

    Hitler REALLY fucked up the fascist brand with his version of it. Fascists have been suffering from that for the past 72 years.

  20. 20.

    debbie

    March 10, 2017 at 8:01 pm

    I can’t find it, but Nancy Pelosi had a great statement about Trumpcare: It insures fewer, it costs more, it helps less.

  21. 21.

    Eric S.

    March 10, 2017 at 8:02 pm

    My morning check list grew by one today. It’s now wallet, phone, keys, phone, and … readers.

    Do I look … studious?

  22. 22.

    Steeplejack (tablet)

    March 10, 2017 at 8:04 pm

    @zhena gogolia:

    The permasmirk does it for me.

  23. 23.

    Major Major Major Major

    March 10, 2017 at 8:07 pm

    @Steeplejack (tablet): what if he sticks to his Very Serious killing-your-grandma-not-in-anger-but-in-sorrow face? All good?

  24. 24.

    Villago Delenda Est

    March 10, 2017 at 8:07 pm

    @Eric S.: It’s all in the eyeglasses. At least that’s Rick Perry’s theory.

  25. 25.

    Yarrow

    March 10, 2017 at 8:07 pm

    @MomSense: Glad she’s okay. Your evening sounds great. Enjoy.

  26. 26.

    Eric S.

    March 10, 2017 at 8:09 pm

    @MomSense: that sounds like a purely fantastic evening. Have a grand time.

  27. 27.

    Eric S.

    March 10, 2017 at 8:11 pm

    @Villago Delenda Est: Dude!/Dudette! I’m self conscious enough getting my first pair of glasses at 45 yo. Did you have to compare it to Bush II’s more ignorant successor? ;-)

  28. 28.

    Yarrow

    March 10, 2017 at 8:11 pm

    @zhena gogolia: @Steeplejack (tablet): Widow’s peak? Permasmirk? Do you people not see his sleeves are rolled up? His.sleeves.are.rolled.up. Look how hard he’s working!

  29. 29.

    XTPD

    March 10, 2017 at 8:12 pm

    I thought Ryan’s reputation was going to be finished off after the 2012 election.

    Ah, to be 17 and stupid again.

  30. 30.

    SFAW

    March 10, 2017 at 8:12 pm

    @Major Major Major Major:

    what if he sticks to his Very Serious killing-your-grandma-not-in-anger-but-in-sorrow face? All good?

    He’s tried, but the permasmirk wins out every time. Making his one of the more punchable faces in Congress. And that’s saying a lot.

  31. 31.

    rikyrah

    March 10, 2017 at 8:13 pm

    GOP Congressman Falls Apart And Admits That Sick People Will Be Screwed On Trumpcare
    Published on Mar 10, 2017

    Rep. Bill Flores (R-TX) fell apart while he was being questioned by MSNBC’s Kate Snow on what would happen if someone got sick while on the Republican Obamacare replacement plan. His answers revealed that folks will be screwed.

    https://youtu.be/MUet5mr9UrU

  32. 32.

    SFAW

    March 10, 2017 at 8:15 pm

    @Yarrow:

    His.sleeves.are.rolled.up. Look how hard he’s working!

    Sorry, but sleeves aren’t considered rolled-up until they get above the elbow. To paraphrase Krugman vis-a-vis: Newtie:

    Ryan is a moocher’s idea of what a working person looks like. In this case, Ryan hisself is the moocher.

  33. 33.

    rikyrah

    March 10, 2017 at 8:17 pm

    @MomSense:

    hope you enjoy the evening :)

  34. 34.

    Yarrow

    March 10, 2017 at 8:18 pm

    @SFAW: Poor Ryan. Can’t even get rolled up sleeves right. Sad!

  35. 35.

    Thru the Looking Glass...

    March 10, 2017 at 8:21 pm

    @SFAW:

    Making his one of the more punchable faces in Congress. And that’s saying a lot.

    Ryan or Chaffetz? Which is MORE punchable?

  36. 36.

    rikyrah

    March 10, 2017 at 8:24 pm

    This VIDEO tweet has been going around today.

    The older girl enters the room like a BOSS!!

  37. 37.

    Josie

    March 10, 2017 at 8:24 pm

    I am somewhat numb right now. My oldest son (age 40) passed away this morning in his sleep. We don’t know the reason, but we suspect a stroke or heart attack. My husband died the same way 20 years ago and this is like deja vu. Please tell your loved ones to get checked and take their meds. His wife told me he had not taken his blood pressure meds for a couple of months. I had no idea. I am devastated.

  38. 38.

    Eric S.

    March 10, 2017 at 8:30 pm

    @Josie: I’m so sorry. Hugs and condolences.

  39. 39.

    TenguPhule

    March 10, 2017 at 8:30 pm

    Still too early to call for the mass trial, conviction and execution of the entire Republican Political party yet?

  40. 40.

    Ohio Mom

    March 10, 2017 at 8:31 pm

    @Josie: I am so, so sorry. There really aren’t words. We are not meant to bury our children.

  41. 41.

    Major Major Major Major

    March 10, 2017 at 8:31 pm

    @Josie: oh my goodness. Condolences and hugs. Take care of yourself, and drink some water even if you think you’re not thirsty.

  42. 42.

    Baud

    March 10, 2017 at 8:32 pm

    @Josie: I’m so very sorry.

  43. 43.

    gbbalto

    March 10, 2017 at 8:33 pm

    Josie – so sorry!

  44. 44.

    Pogonip

    March 10, 2017 at 8:33 pm

    @Josie: I’m so sorry. May God be with you and your family at this terrible time.

  45. 45.

    amk

    March 10, 2017 at 8:33 pm

    @rikyrah: But the dad is an asshole.

  46. 46.

    MomSense

    March 10, 2017 at 8:33 pm

    @Josie:

    Josie, I am so sorry. Sending all my love and support to you.

  47. 47.

    polyorchnid octopunch

    March 10, 2017 at 8:34 pm

    @Thru the Looking Glass…: Red pill or blue pill? Why not both?

  48. 48.

    schrodingers_cat

    March 10, 2017 at 8:37 pm

    @Josie: I have no words {{{ }}}. Take care of yourself too.

  49. 49.

    SiubhanDuinne

    March 10, 2017 at 8:39 pm

    @Josie:

    Oh my god, Josie, I am stunned and devastated for you. Don’t know what to say except that you and your son and his family are in my thoughts and heart. If virtual hugs make any difference to you, know you have them in abundance.

  50. 50.

    p.a.

    March 10, 2017 at 8:39 pm

    @Josie: So very sorry. Words don’t do enough…

  51. 51.

    JPL

    March 10, 2017 at 8:39 pm

    @Josie: I am so sorry, and I can’t even imagine the pain you must be feeling.

  52. 52.

    Thru the Looking Glass...

    March 10, 2017 at 8:40 pm

    @polyorchnid octopunch: No argument on my part… it seems like the field is actually pretty crowded… Gohmert… Bratz… S King… so many faces… so little time…

  53. 53.

    delk

    March 10, 2017 at 8:41 pm

    @Josie: Our deepest condolences.

  54. 54.

    Yarrow

    March 10, 2017 at 8:42 pm

    @Josie: Oh, Josie. I’m so, so sorry. Such a devastating loss. Sending lots of love to you. Please be kind to yourself as you navigate the challenging terrain ahead.

  55. 55.

    Mary G

    March 10, 2017 at 8:42 pm

    @Josie: That is horrifying, and I am so sorry you are going through it again. I just put fresh batteries in my blood pressure monitor.

  56. 56.

    hovercraft

    March 10, 2017 at 8:43 pm

    @Josie:
    Josie, I’m so very sorry for your loss, I can’t imagine what you are going through. Take care of yourself and the rest of your family, you will all be in my thoughts, be strong. Hugs and positive thoughts.

  57. 57.

    jacy

    March 10, 2017 at 8:46 pm

    @Josie:

    I’m so, so sorry. I can’t imagine. Thinking good thoughts for you, and your family.

  58. 58.

    Keith P.

    March 10, 2017 at 8:47 pm

    How about this – if, at retirement age, you haven’t gotten sick, your first year of Social Security payments are higher than normal. Like, say, 2000 percent higher. Or a gazillion.

  59. 59.

    Ghost of Joe Liebling's Dog

    March 10, 2017 at 8:47 pm

    @Josie: Deepest sympathies to you and your family – I’m so very sorry.

  60. 60.

    El Caganer

    March 10, 2017 at 8:48 pm

    @Thru the Looking Glass…: Eddie Munster or Piglet? Decisions, decisions….

  61. 61.

    Duke's Archives

    March 10, 2017 at 8:51 pm

    After a fair trial, a first class hanging.

  62. 62.

    Steeplejack (tablet)

    March 10, 2017 at 8:53 pm

    @Josie:

    God, what a shock! Mere condolences seem inadequate. My prayers go out to you and your family.

  63. 63.

    Mike in NC

    March 10, 2017 at 8:53 pm

    @Josie: So sorry for your loss. May you find peace.

  64. 64.

    rikyrah

    March 10, 2017 at 8:53 pm

    @Josie:
    So sorry for your loss. I will say some prayers.

  65. 65.

    Van Buren

    March 10, 2017 at 8:54 pm

    @Major Major Major Major: That was totally worth it!

  66. 66.

    West of the Rockies (been a while)

    March 10, 2017 at 8:54 pm

    Please come here to BJ and cry and swear and reminisce and vent any time you feel the need. We’re strangers, most of us, but have somehow formed a connection. Hug those near you, Josie.

  67. 67.

    glory b

    March 10, 2017 at 8:58 pm

    @Villago Delenda Est: I was trying to think of a good Rick Perry joke too.

  68. 68.

    debit

    March 10, 2017 at 8:58 pm

    @Josie: Oh god, I am so sorry. For whatever it’s worth, you are in my thoughts and I’m wishing you strength and comfort.

  69. 69.

    glory b

    March 10, 2017 at 9:02 pm

    @Josie: No words, just hugs.

  70. 70.

    scott alloway

    March 10, 2017 at 9:03 pm

    @Josie: I am so sorry. Words don’t convey the right message to you. Please remember many of us are thinking of you now and in the future.

  71. 71.

    Josie

    March 10, 2017 at 9:05 pm

    Thank you to everyone for your thoughts and prayers. I am so grateful to have this community, and I feel the comfort from your messages. I have have two more wonderful sons, and they are helping me to deal with this, so I am very thankful for that.

  72. 72.

    SiubhanDuinne

    March 10, 2017 at 9:05 pm

    @West of the Rockies (been a while):

    We’re strangers, most of us, but have somehow formed a connection.

    This is a true community. We may read and admire and quote and cite other blogs with regularity, but I can’t think of a place other than Balloon Juice that offers the political simpatico, the intellectual heft, and the opportunity for genuine personal attachment. I’m not exaggerating when I say that I have shed more tears for John’s cat and debit’s dog and Josie’s son and Satby’s mom and Ben Cisco’s wife and efgoldman’s sister-in-law (and many others) than I have for a couple of my own close blood relatives.

  73. 73.

    SiubhanDuinne

    March 10, 2017 at 9:07 pm

    @Josie:

    {{{{{ }}}}}

  74. 74.

    mai naem mobile

    March 10, 2017 at 9:08 pm

    @Thru the Looking Glass…: do we have to choose? Can’t we have Ryan standing next to Chaffetz and punch Ryan so hard that the momentum makes your arm continue onto Chaffetz and smacks him real good.

  75. 75.

    Eric S.

    March 10, 2017 at 9:08 pm

    @SiubhanDuinne: true that

  76. 76.

    wvng

    March 10, 2017 at 9:09 pm

    This is kind of fascinating. One might recall that Breitbart has been going after Paul Ryan for years, and that was done under Bannon’s lead.
    “So, Breitbart’s latest headline on the Trump-Ryan health-care plan is probably causing some consternation at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue.
    7 REASONS WHY OBAMACARE 2.0 IS ALL BUT GUARANTEED TO IMPOSE CRUSHING COSTS ON VOTERS, HURT TRUMP’S BASE, AND HAND POWER BACK TO THE DEMOCRATS.
    Perhaps the most shocking thing about Breitbart’s headline is its accuracy. Trumpcare is a much less generous program than Obamacare — and its cuts will be felt, disproportionately, by the people who wanted Trump to Make America Great Again. Among the reasons why this is the case:”
    http://nymag.com/daily/intelligencer/2017/03/breitbart-may-have-just-killed-trumpcare.html

  77. 77.

    JPL

    March 10, 2017 at 9:10 pm

    @Josie: Hugs. Sons are amazing.

  78. 78.

    debit

    March 10, 2017 at 9:10 pm

    @SiubhanDuinne: Beautifully said.

  79. 79.

    MomSense

    March 10, 2017 at 9:12 pm

    @Josie:

    Oh Josie, we are all holding you very close in our thoughts and prayers.

  80. 80.

    Major Major Major Major

    March 10, 2017 at 9:12 pm

    @wvng: apparently Bannon is quite upset with Breitbart’s new editor over this.

  81. 81.

    debbie

    March 10, 2017 at 9:13 pm

    @Josie:

    I cannot imagine what you’re going through. I’m so sorry for you and your family.

  82. 82.

    debbie

    March 10, 2017 at 9:15 pm

    @Major Major Major Major:

    You won’t like Bannon when he’s angry.

  83. 83.

    mai naem mobile

    March 10, 2017 at 9:15 pm

    @Josie: oh,Josie, I am so sorry. I really don’t even know what to say. One of my cousins who was in his late 30s committed suicide a few years ago and my aunt took it really really hard. She spends a lot of time with his kids and I think that helps her. Take care of yourself.

  84. 84.

    JPL

    March 10, 2017 at 9:16 pm

    @debit: How are you doing? Walter died knowing he was loved, and no one can ask for more.

  85. 85.

    Elmo

    March 10, 2017 at 9:18 pm

    @Josie: There are no words, and we can only weep with you.

  86. 86.

    Major Major Major Major

    March 10, 2017 at 9:18 pm

    @debbie: I won’t even like Bannon when he’s dead.

  87. 87.

    Feebog

    March 10, 2017 at 9:18 pm

    @Josie:

    Josie: So sorry for your loss. What a horrible thing.

  88. 88.

    Jim, Foolish Literalist

    March 10, 2017 at 9:20 pm

    @Josie: Very sorry for your loss

  89. 89.

    debit

    March 10, 2017 at 9:23 pm

    @JPL: I am okay. I miss him terribly and am already looking at dogs in shelters, but it’s not fair to anyone to adopt while still in the grieving process. And it’s not fair to him to try to hurry and fill the hole he left behind.

  90. 90.

    hedgehog mobile

    March 10, 2017 at 9:26 pm

    @Josie: So sorry…how awful.

  91. 91.

    BlueDWarrior

    March 10, 2017 at 9:26 pm

    @Thru the Looking Glass…: do i have to choose?

  92. 92.

    ThresherK

    March 10, 2017 at 9:27 pm

    @Major Major Major Major: Somebody warn the Trumpites!

    The Poles have attacked the Gleiwitz radio transmitter!

  93. 93.

    raven

    March 10, 2017 at 9:27 pm

    @Josie: Oh Josie, I’m so sorry to hear this.

  94. 94.

    Lizzy L

    March 10, 2017 at 9:28 pm

    @Thru the Looking Glass…: Dude, you KNOW the answer to that.

    All of them, Katie!

  95. 95.

    Gin & Tonic

    March 10, 2017 at 9:28 pm

    @Major Major Major Major: Here’s how much I care about what Bannon thinks. Did you miss it?

  96. 96.

    raven

    March 10, 2017 at 9:28 pm

    @debit: I didn’t know about Walter until just now. What a wonderful thing you did for him.

  97. 97.

    efgoldman

    March 10, 2017 at 9:29 pm

    @Yarrow:

    But his sleeves are rolled up.

    My sleeves are always rolled up – because i’m not gonna’ pay for custom made shirts with short enough sleeves.

  98. 98.

    Lizzy L

    March 10, 2017 at 9:29 pm

    @Josie: I am so sorry.

  99. 99.

    ThresherK

    March 10, 2017 at 9:29 pm

    @Josie: I am so, so sorry for your loss.

  100. 100.

    debit

    March 10, 2017 at 9:32 pm

    @raven: Thank you. He was such a good dog and deserved every good thing in the world. He made me very happy and I am better for having him in my life.

  101. 101.

    Lizzy L

    March 10, 2017 at 9:33 pm

    @debbie: Fuck him and the horse he rode in on.

    Not this time, motherfuckers.

  102. 102.

    debit

    March 10, 2017 at 9:33 pm

    @efgoldman: Are you my ex husband?

  103. 103.

    Major Major Major Major

    March 10, 2017 at 9:34 pm

    @Gin & Tonic: no, it must be hiding behind your tiny violin.

  104. 104.

    Captain C

    March 10, 2017 at 9:35 pm

    @mai naem mobile: Maybe we should be scientific. Take 500 people of varying size and background. Give them boxing gloves. Have them punch both (half punch Ryan first, half Chaffetz, selected at random), and then have them describe which gave them more satisfaction. Or let the punchers choose, and who they chose to punch first could be useful data.

    I think we definitely need 500 data points though, at least.

  105. 105.

    Aimai

    March 10, 2017 at 9:36 pm

    @Josie: so, so, sorry for you and his wife.

  106. 106.

    raven

    March 10, 2017 at 9:36 pm

    @debit: From the Senior Dog Project

    “”Blessed is the person who has earned the love of an old dog.”
    – Sydney Jeanne Seward”

  107. 107.

    Major Major Major Major

    March 10, 2017 at 9:36 pm

    @Captain C: can we give them rolls of quarters instead of boxing gloves? You know, to pay them for being experimental subjects.

  108. 108.

    The Lodger

    March 10, 2017 at 9:37 pm

    @Captain C: Statistical significance is expensive, but you know, I’d chip in.

  109. 109.

    Ohio Mom

    March 10, 2017 at 9:37 pm

    @efgoldman: The nice Greek woman across the street from me will shorten cuffed shirts for $10 (that’s both sleeves). You do have to chat with her, and it can be hard to extricate yourself though.

  110. 110.

    Mnemosyne

    March 10, 2017 at 9:38 pm

    @Josie:

    I’m so sorry, Josie. We lost one of my older brothers in 2015 and I know it was the hardest thing my mom has ever had to deal with. Try to let others take care of you at this difficult time.

  111. 111.

    efgoldman

    March 10, 2017 at 9:39 pm

    @debbie:

    You won’t like Bannon when he’s angry.

    I don’t like him when he’s happy.
    I don’t like him when he’s sleeping.
    I might like him when he’s shot into space without a space suit.
    I’d definitely like him if he fell off a boat in a cove full of hungry sharks.

  112. 112.

    Barbara

    March 10, 2017 at 9:40 pm

    @Josie: I am so sorry. Sending you thoughts of comfort and healing.

  113. 113.

    jl

    March 10, 2017 at 9:40 pm

    @Major Major Major Major:if this Trump-Ryan-GOP-care mess passes and many Trumpsters get seriously hurt in the pocket book, or far far worse, Breitbart the publication doesn’t have the luxury of hoping something turns up before the next election.

  114. 114.

    randy khan

    March 10, 2017 at 9:44 pm

    @Josie:

    I am so, so sorry.

  115. 115.

    efgoldman

    March 10, 2017 at 9:50 pm

    @debit:

    Are you my ex husband?

    It’s possible. Were you married in early 1969, divorced ~two years later?

  116. 116.

    efgoldman

    March 10, 2017 at 9:52 pm

    @Ohio Mom:

    The nice Greek woman across the street from me will shorten cuffed shirts for $10

    Thank you, but Ohio’s a little far.

  117. 117.

    West of the Rockies (been a while)

    March 10, 2017 at 9:58 pm

    @SiubhanDuinne:

    True enough. I go to a lot of sites. I come here every damn day, usually several times, for the humor, the news, the insights and insults, for the humanity in a sometimes inhumane world.

  118. 118.

    debit

    March 10, 2017 at 10:03 pm

    @efgoldman: I would have been 4, so probably not.

  119. 119.

    Ksmiami

    March 10, 2017 at 10:03 pm

    @TenguPhule: no – string the whole rotten crew up. tumbrels can’t come quick enough

  120. 120.

    Villago Delenda Est

    March 10, 2017 at 10:06 pm

    @Josie: Many, many hugs. When my mom was in her last few days, I asked the ICU nurse how she coped with all this on a daily basis. She said you manage, but you observe that some things never change…a 90 year old mother watching her 65 year old daughter slowly slip away…it always hurts, so much, no matter what, when a child leaves before you do. I went through this 30 years ago when my brother passed, and I was the support for my parents. Just wipes you out, but as long as they’re remembered, they’re sill around…every day.

  121. 121.

    Ruckus

    March 10, 2017 at 10:10 pm

    @efgoldman:
    Why would you do that to sharks? Have you no standards man?

  122. 122.

    Villago Delenda Est

    March 10, 2017 at 10:10 pm

    @Eric S.: I’ve been wearing them since I was in the fifth grade, so my self-consciousness has long since passed, but yes, you DO look studious!

    Rick Perry can’t pull that off!

  123. 123.

    Villago Delenda Est

    March 10, 2017 at 10:12 pm

    @Thru the Looking Glass…: The Backpfeifengesicht derby has a great deal of competition. It used to be Sean Hannity leading the field, but it’s very crowded now…neck and neck and neck!

  124. 124.

    Aleta

    March 10, 2017 at 10:13 pm

    @Josie: I’m very sorry. You’re in my thoughts. I hope you’ll write here whenever you feel like it, day or night.

  125. 125.

    Josie

    March 10, 2017 at 10:14 pm

    @Villago Delenda Est: So true, everything you wrote. Thank you.

  126. 126.

    Kalimama

    March 10, 2017 at 10:15 pm

    @Josie: I am so very, very sorry. Hugs and love sent your way.

  127. 127.

    Eric S.

    March 10, 2017 at 10:18 pm

    @Villago Delenda Est: thank you.? I KNOW you were joking, but thank you.

  128. 128.

    Aleta

    March 10, 2017 at 10:19 pm

    @efgoldman: I never thought I’d say this, but lately I want to bring back the pillory.

  129. 129.

    The Lodger

    March 10, 2017 at 10:19 pm

    @efgoldman: I would not like his show on Fox.
    But I might like him in a box.

  130. 130.

    sukabi

    March 10, 2017 at 10:21 pm

    @debbie: don’t like him in any state.

  131. 131.

    Steve in the ATL

    March 10, 2017 at 10:21 pm

    @Josie: oh god. I am so sorry to hear that. No parent should outlive her child. We are all here for you, as much as imaginary internet friends can be.

  132. 132.

    ChrisGrrr

    March 10, 2017 at 10:25 pm

    @Josie: Hold on to each other. Remember the best things and times. “One breath at a time,” all of you will honor him with the actions you take. Hold on.

  133. 133.

    Emma

    March 10, 2017 at 10:26 pm

    @Josie: dear God in heaven. There are no words. I will hold your family in my prayers.

  134. 134.

    Steve in the ATL

    March 10, 2017 at 10:29 pm

    A fraternity brother lost his son lady week to a latent congenital heart defect. Kid was a freshman at the university of Michigan, doing great, and then he was gone. So I’ve been thinking for days about what to say in that situation and there is nothing.

    So sorry for you.

  135. 135.

    SFAW

    March 10, 2017 at 10:32 pm

    @Thru the Looking Glass…:

    Ryan or Chaffetz? Which is MORE punchable?

    Hmm … I think the answer is

    “Yes”

    or, perhaps

    “All of them, Katie.” (Although I’m late to the game on that one.)

  136. 136.

    debit

    March 10, 2017 at 10:34 pm

    @Steve in the ATL: I’ve told my kids that my worst nightmare is that they go before me. I don’t know how a person goes on after that, I really don’t.

  137. 137.

    Omnes Omnibus

    March 10, 2017 at 10:35 pm

    @Josie: I am so sorry. My condolences.

  138. 138.

    SFAW

    March 10, 2017 at 10:35 pm

    @Josie:

    Josie –
    So sorry for you and your family, what a terrible thing. I wish I could find the right words.

  139. 139.

    Lyrebird

    March 10, 2017 at 10:41 pm

    @Josie: Such a heartbreak… Hoping you & the rest of the family are surrounded by help and comfort as you face this terrible loss.

  140. 140.

    SiubhanDuinne

    March 10, 2017 at 10:42 pm

    @West of the Rockies (been a while):

    It’s amazing, isn’t it? The same people who can virtually rip each other’s hair out over a point of grammar, let alone the 2016 primary, while screaming “Fuckyouverymuch! (witharustypitchfork!!”) are the same folks who, with one accord, generously donate money to give a few more months of life to an old, neglected, abused sweetheart of a dog; and crochet pussyhats for each other for a protest march; and phone and email their MoC daily about some horrible looming piece of Trumpian legislation; and rally around fellow Juicers who are grieving and bereft; and celebrate fellow Juicers’ new children, grandchildren, and kittens; and poke fun at each others’ sports teams; and share clips of their beloved music and movies; and teach each other how to navigate health care and the internet and football (both kinds); and so much more.

    I’ve been trying for a while to sum up what Balloon Juice means in my life, and am failing miserably at capturing the site’s essence. I guess it’s like Justice Potter Stewart’s classic definition of obscenity: can’t describe it, but I know it when I see it.

  141. 141.

    Lyrebird

    March 10, 2017 at 10:43 pm

    @Steve in the ATL: One of my honorary nephews left this life way too early with a similar story (freshman, heart problem…). Awful awful.

  142. 142.

    martian

    March 10, 2017 at 10:47 pm

    @Josie: Oh, I’m so, so sorry. What a terrible, hard thing. My condolences to you and all of your family, you will be in my thoughts.

    I’m going to ask my husband tonight what’s going on with his blood pressure regimen. I suspect he has been slacking. Thank you for the generosity of spirit that led you to think of others at this difficult time and give warning.

  143. 143.

    zhena gogolia

    March 10, 2017 at 10:49 pm

    @Josie:

    I am so sorry. That is terrible.

  144. 144.

    Steve in the ATL

    March 10, 2017 at 10:52 pm

    @SiubhanDuinne: well said.

    It pains me to admit this, but one of the two main reasons I prefer BJ to LGM is that LGM has too much pedantry even for me (the other reason, of course, is that LGM has threaded comments–the devil’s work).

    Anyhoo, we are a lovely group!

  145. 145.

    tobie

    March 10, 2017 at 10:53 pm

    @Josie: I am so sorry. You must feel shaken to your core. Please don’t think too far ahead or behind right now. It’s just too much.

  146. 146.

    Another Scott

    March 10, 2017 at 10:55 pm

    @Josie: I’m very sorry. Early death is so hard for the survivors. My half brother died in his sleep when he was 33. It was quite a shock, and our poor mother took it very hard. :-(

    Condolences to you and your family. Remember the good times, and be there for each other.

    Best wishes,
    Scott.

  147. 147.

    tobie

    March 10, 2017 at 11:02 pm

    I was offline most of today and just saw tonight that Trump asked all 46 remaining AGs appointed by Obama to resign immediately. This includes Preet Bharara. I know he’s allowed to do this but it still has the feel of a purge like the evisceration of the top and mid-level staff in the State Department.

  148. 148.

    Johannes

    March 10, 2017 at 11:03 pm

    @Josie: So very sorry for your loss.

  149. 149.

    TriassicSands

    March 10, 2017 at 11:14 pm

    @Josie:

    Oh, Josie, that is devastating news. I am so sorry. Forty is much too young. Get as much support from other loved ones as you can.

  150. 150.

    TriassicSands

    March 10, 2017 at 11:25 pm

    @debit:

    And it’s not fair to him to try to hurry and fill the hole he left behind.

    In one sense maybe not, but there are a lot of dogs (and cats) out there who desperately need a loving friend to rescue them. And if you look into their eyes (or dentition as in the case of Walter) and the message is right…what are you gonna do?

  151. 151.

    Ruckus

    March 10, 2017 at 11:26 pm

    @Josie:
    So very sorry.
    My mom had to go through this when my sister died.

    @Steve in the ATL:
    Both my grandfather and one of his daughters had congenital heart failure in their early to mid 40s. Not an easy thing to accept for everyone involved.

  152. 152.

    Betsy

    March 10, 2017 at 11:31 pm

    @Josie: I’m so sorry. I know you came here in numbness and shock. Please feel the sympathy of your online friends. I am one of many pulling for you. Thank you for trusting this place with your news.

  153. 153.

    Ruckus

    March 10, 2017 at 11:34 pm

    @SiubhanDuinne:
    Whatever else it is, it’s family.
    There are a few dysfunctional uncles, the one’s that are never left out out sight or alone with the kids at family gatherings, there are the kind souls who would do anything for someone in pain, probably a few drunks, cat ladies (and men!), dog lovers, and many just good people all around.
    Family.
    But one we want to join rather than have to endure.

  154. 154.

    CaseyL

    March 10, 2017 at 11:39 pm

    @Josie: What a devastating loss – I am so sorry! You have a community here to support you, and hopefully that will help.

  155. 155.

    SiubhanDuinne

    March 10, 2017 at 11:40 pm

    @Ruckus:

    Yup. All of this.

  156. 156.

    efgoldman

    March 10, 2017 at 11:43 pm

    @Ruckus:

    Why would you do that to sharks?

    They’d probably adopt him and make him king

  157. 157.

    efgoldman

    March 10, 2017 at 11:44 pm

    @Aleta:

    I want to bring back the pillory.

    Perp walks would do as a 21st century replacement.

  158. 158.

    efgoldman

    March 10, 2017 at 11:46 pm

    @Steve in the ATL:

    as much as imaginary internet friends can be.

    Does Snuffleupagas post here? I must have missed it.

  159. 159.

    KS in MA

    March 10, 2017 at 11:46 pm

    @Josie: I’m so sorry, Josie. We’re all thinking of you tonight.

  160. 160.

    efgoldman

    March 10, 2017 at 11:49 pm

    @martian:

    I’m going to ask my husband tonight what’s going on with his blood pressure regimen

    I hate, hate hate my BP pills, but I take them faithfully, because I love, love, love my granddaughter.

  161. 161.

    Omnes Omnibus

    March 10, 2017 at 11:51 pm

    @SiubhanDuinne: Yeah, I can’t explain this place to others. Cole did something really good in launching the place and making sure that it is more or less a free-fire zone. Sometimes, near anarchy can be good.

  162. 162.

    efgoldman

    March 10, 2017 at 11:53 pm

    @Steve in the ATL:

    LGM has too much pedantry even for me

    Most of LGM’s front pagers are professors with advanced degrees, so no surprise.
    I do enjoy the sports posts, and some of the others. I have learned over the years which are tl;dr

  163. 163.

    Omnes Omnibus

    March 10, 2017 at 11:55 pm

    @Steve in the ATL: Threaded comments are wrong.

  164. 164.

    efgoldman

    March 10, 2017 at 11:55 pm

    @tobie:

    Trump asked all 46 remaining AGs appointed by Obama to resign immediately.

    The question is: will he appoint replacements, and will they actually be lawyers.

  165. 165.

    efgoldman

    March 10, 2017 at 11:56 pm

    @Omnes Omnibus:

    Threaded comments are wrong.

    Some of us aren’t too old to adapt.

  166. 166.

    Omnes Omnibus

    March 10, 2017 at 11:57 pm

    @efgoldman: I am not too old. I am just unwilling.

  167. 167.

    KS in MA

    March 10, 2017 at 11:58 pm

    @Ruckus: What Ruckus said.

  168. 168.

    Ruckus

    March 11, 2017 at 1:15 am

    @efgoldman:
    As long as they hold him underwater for oh I don’t know, 2 or 3 weeks minimum.

  169. 169.

    martian

    March 11, 2017 at 1:16 am

    @efgoldman: Welp, my husband lacks your common sense – hasn’t been taking his, I find, nor checking his bp. Josie did us a huge favour.

    I nudged tonight. Tomorrow, I’ll be climbing up his ass and building a comfy camp fire.

  170. 170.

    Ruckus

    March 11, 2017 at 1:28 am

    @efgoldman:
    Ask your doc to change your regimen if he/she can. Mine changed mine completely and it works great with no side effects what so ever, except that it helps my tremor. Doesn’t kick it’s ass just helps. But anything to help and not have bad side effects is wonderful.

  171. 171.

    Ruckus

    March 11, 2017 at 1:32 am

    @efgoldman:
    Make him king? I’d bet even sharks have standards. And probably better ones than most republicans.

  172. 172.

    Lillian Barron

    March 11, 2017 at 1:55 am

    @Josie: I am so sorry for your loss, Josie. I have been there and can only say that Joe Biden is right. One day the thought of your Son will bring a smile to your lips before it brings a year to your eye. Hugs to you.

  173. 173.

    Westyny

    March 11, 2017 at 2:08 am

    @Josie: Unspeakable. So sorry. I promise you your relationship with him will continue.

  174. 174.

    Enhanced Voting Techniques

    March 11, 2017 at 4:21 am

    @Hungry Joe:

    Ryan might be the most purely evil of them all.

    Ryan always impressed me as the Mitt bot sans the intelligence and empathy modules.

  175. 175.

    satby

    March 11, 2017 at 5:59 am

    @Josie: Josie, I hope you check back for one more virtual hug and heartfelt condolences from me. Keeping you and your family in my thoughts.

  176. 176.

    satby

    March 11, 2017 at 6:07 am

    @SiubhanDuinne: and you speak truth here. I hope every member of our fractious online family realizes just how much it means to the hurting when you all rally around with support. It means the world.

  177. 177.

    Lapassionara

    March 11, 2017 at 6:37 am

    I know the thread is dead, but in case not, I would suggest that Josie’s living sons ask for a stress test. It should show if they have any beginnings of logs or weaknesses in major arteries. The latter can be there at birth and just be fine for decades, then not.

  178. 178.

    chopper

    March 11, 2017 at 12:15 pm

    @Josie:

    oh Jesus, that’s horrible. I am so sorry.

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