VK, don't shift the focus. You gave a simple example, not one you supported or proposed, just an example to show your point of priorities and how you can be both a fiscal conservative and a social liberal. Your example pulled troops from Afghanistan to save the country $200 billion annually. You said,
"interpret what I've said as an example of what government can do. I'm sure you could insert any number of inefficient and ineffective government spending programs instead of the war, as well as other high priority social programs that could be funded with the savings of cutting unneeded spending."

In response to what I'd been reading on this thread about taxes, wasteful spending and priorities, I said, "It's the same thing with the involvement of the government in every aspect of our lives. Government needs to play less a role in individuals lives. I believe in freedom. I understand your example was broad and not an exact example, VK, but for the point of discussion...What is happening to Obama's war? Where is his “a stronger, smarter, more comprehensive strategy” that would build schools, hospitals, roads, and enterprise zones, addressing issues such as energy and trade. Where are those efforts?"

You response to me, quoting my statement for discussion, was condescending and evasive of any real debate. You keep crying priorities. You gave the example of the Afghan invasion. I mentioned facts. Instead of having a constructive discussion and allowing meaningful debate to take place, your response was "The reason there is so little meaningful national debate is that there is so much hatred for President Obama that it gets in the way of any constructive thinking." .

By your reasoning of respecting Obama, "It might be a more productive exercise to simply put Barack Obama aside to a back corner of your mind," and not discussing issues involving his leadership would be the same as putting other representatives in Congress in the back corner of your mind. No discussing issues they uphold or disapprove of. Just keep quite, be respectful and vote them out. That is absurb and disingenuous to the real point of discussions and learning.

I agree with Bucco, I enjoy reading your posts. I usually take something away from them. I use many things you say to study and learn on my own. But your closed minded attitude of taking any discussion about Obama off the table is not fodder for open debate and discussion or learning how to prioritize.

Sorry for the criticism. It is intended to be constructive.