Originally Posted by macro

I fail to see the attack on you personally. No mention of that anywhere. I have no doubt you worked hard to get where you are. I also made no mention that corporations shouldn't pay taxes. Yes, corps. are taxed and that is added to their expenses as a cost of doing business, and ultimately passed on to the consumer. On a smaller scale, if you are gong to the store and a friend asks you to pick something up for them, say $20, do you just get your $20 back and pay the tax yourself? Maybe once in a while. But on a regular basis, you'll ask for the tax you paid too.
Glad you got a chuckle from that, no, I realize Obama was not in office yet, but, he was in the senate before he got promoted 'above his pay grade' (a perfect example of the 'Peter Principle') and when not campaigning, could vote (other than present) on proposals affecting financial regulation. A minor role, obviously, but his other ties and positions he held several places bother me more. I also notice you make no defense for Frank and Dodd.
Let's forget about the POUTS for a moment and look back. The only power of the office is in the Veto power and the 'bully pulpit'. Congress determines how much and where to spend. Repubs were NOT handed a surplus in '94. Major strains on the economy were 9/11, Katrina, followed by a war on terror, whatever your feelings on that war, all expensive but didn't require 2,000 page, unread 'porkulous' bills that cost trillions, to be passed. Snow is not exactly a shining example of a fiscally conservative republican. Only says what she needs to, to get elected. I am worried that Brown may move in that direction also. I have NO respect for ANY politician that does not stand by his/her principles. I disagree with Feingold but respect him for holding firm to his principles. Yes, Repubs failed to hold to their principles and that is what elections are for. (Term limits come to mind) Both sides are responsible for the current mess and it's time to clean house.
Remember, none of this is to be construed as an attack on you, personally but simply a discourse on our differing views. If we present facts and not rhetoric, we are both richer for the experience.