The Hannity Forum has made me change my mind on....

[jmb6]

Here is an open forum for everyone to show their pragmatic side. What ideological view(s) have you changed since joining this forum?

Please try to be civil and try to refrain from bashing.

I will start with my own, I was against gay marriage before reading this board. While I would never marry a man, I now think it is none of my business. I also think it is a states rights issue, but, that is a separate argument.

What say you?

[jmb6]

Just for fun, I would also like to say that the before reading the Hannity Forum, I thought Republicans were conservative.

hehe

[ModerateVoice]

I'll bump this for you.

[kat]

Certainly changed my mind on the Patriot Act. I never realized what a slippery slope it was until reading a few astute posters' opinions on it.

I had never heard the term RINO before coming here too. Now I know exactly what to watch for when voting and I now write letters to reps with a more informed understanding.

[ThrowCop]

The use of tasers by police. Sgtmac & JediMindTrick showed me that it has its place and is the safer alternative in most every instance.

The role of the UN. While I was wishy-washy on it, I thought it had more redeeming qualities than non. Discussions here led to me doing more reading and brought me to the opposite conclusion.

I have basically become more & more a supporter of limited government during my time here.

[jmb6]

I had a friend of mine who is an old school Libertarian Thinker tell me what she thought about the Patriot Act before I read this forum.

[toreyj01]

As a lib, I have appreciated the confluence of the parties and the lack of true difference between one administration to the next much more glaringly.

I have also taken the time to research many points here regarding fiscal policy, in some regards the Cons here are spot on, in some the Paulites have the right idea, and in some the Dems do.

But I have taken the time to research the lot, and I have you all to thank for it.

[kat]

I had a friend of mine who is an old school Libertarian Thinker tell me what she thought about the Patriot Act before I read this forum.

It was a couple of Libertarians who changed my mind in fact.

[Thanatos144]

Not much has changed for me. Other than I know more than I did.

[croupier101]

Global Warming. I didn't have a defined stance on the issue. I have learned a ton on the issue since joining the forum, specifically from Lee. I still don't have a political stance on the issue, but at least I feel much more informed.

[Dr. Funkenstein]

The use of tasers by police. Sgtmac & JediMindTrick showed me that it has its place and is the safer alternative in most every instance.

The role of the UN. While I was wishy-washy on it, I thought it had more redeeming qualities than non. Discussions here led to me doing more reading and brought me to the opposite conclusion.

I have basically become more & more a supporter of limited government during my time here.

As have I.

I will also no longer vote for the lesser of two evils. If you are a crappy candidate, I will not vote for you...period.

[Thanatos144]

I also learned that I am not ever gonna be a libertarian.

[shrek]

But I have taken the time to research the lot, and I have you all to thank for it.

Torey,

I would state that this site has also not only forced me to research even more. But taught me how to research, something I thought I had already known. But apparently not.

[ModerateVoice]

As a result of this forum, I shed the label of Republican in favor of Libertarian or Independent.........I think both parties are ****ed up.

Despite my differences in ideology with liberals, I respect liberals on this forum & disdain most politicians in Washington. The liberals on this forum genuinely believe in their ideals, the pols in Washington are simply Machiavellian dirt bags working the angles to enrich themselves & appeal to their constituency just enough to get elected..........that was a compliment to the libs, and an insult to ALL politicians in DC.

[ThrowCop]

I also learned that I am not ever gonna be a libertarian.Yeah, that's pretty clear. ;)

[betwixt]

Maybe not a change of mind but...

I have come to realize how little I knew of politics and how much I really hate it.
Watching 30 to 45 minutes of local and "Nightly News" and then reading the Sunday paper is not getting all the facts on a topic IMO.

And remembering that when I come here it is opinions that we discuss with some fact, but it is up to me to do my own due dilligence.

[Dr. Funkenstein]

I also learned that I am not ever gonna be a libertarian.
We can't all be perfect :razz:

[deportalllibs]

Politicians are consistently a disapointment

[shrek]

Here is an open forum for everyone to show their pragmatic side. What ideological view(s) have you changed since joining this forum?

Please try to be civil and try to refrain from bashing.

I will start with my own, I was against gay marriage before reading this board. While I would never marry a man, I now think it is none of my business. I also think it is a states rights issue, but, that is a separate argument.

What say you?

Jmb6,

I do not want to knock this thread off track, because i understand what you are getting at. I have changed my views or softened them a bit. Because I have not done a 180 degree change on any of my views but I have learned to allow for exceptions in many cases.

But I want to set the record straight. Most Conservatives are not against Gay Marriage. Gay people marry people of the same sex all the time.

What I have a problem with is using the Government and the courts to change the definition of marriage. That is why most Conservatives tend to stand up and shout no.

And why I will continue to do so.

[Dr. Funkenstein]

Torey,

I would state that this site has also not only forced me to research even more. But taught me how to research, something I thought I had already known. But apparently not.
I can state, unequivocally, that my google-fu is much stronger now than it ever was before.

As is my BS detector (re: "I fired all of my Obama supporters" threads)

[Nevarwinter]

I came in as a new-er Republican coming from conservative-ish independent. I grew up, I guess you can say just before I joined the forum. Think Mr. Miyagi and his grape speech. I spent time at a lot of other boards before that, battling hard left libs from a conservative-independent viewpoint.

I think I always had more libertarian leanings even as an independent. I don't care about your personal life. Never have, never will. Going more to the right was a natural move given the steps i've taken in life. I really didn't like Ron Paul back then, now I like the guy more.

I fell in love with Sarah Palin. That kind of frontier/common sense thinking is something I think America needs to get back in touch with. Anyone who's ever spent time in a forest not chained to a tree can appreciate the beauty of our natural environment.

That's something else... I always knew that the right cared for the environment more than the communist eco-movement. Here, I confirmed it.

[Thanatos144]

Yeah, that's pretty clear. ;)

Yea I feel I have moved beyond such nonsense.

[ArmyMAJretired]

Baby seals and robots.

[nortman]

Certainly changed my mind on the Patriot Act. I never realized what a slippery slope it was until reading a few astute posters' opinions on it.

I had never heard the term RINO before coming here too. Now I know exactly what to watch for when voting and I now write letters to reps with a more informed understanding.

I'll give you an "Amen" on the Patriot Act.

[killSocialism]

Here is an open forum for everyone to show their pragmatic side. What ideological view(s) have you changed since joining this forum?

Please try to be civil and try to refrain from bashing.

I will start with my own, I was against gay marriage before reading this board. While I would never marry a man, I now think it is none of my business. I also think it is a states rights issue, but, that is a separate argument.

What say you?

One thing it has taught me.

I used to think Liberals were just fooled by politicians into accepting socialism, now I know Liberals fully embrace socialism and in some cases communism.

[Jagergeist]

I was a firm believer Republicans were nuts for thinking global warming was a myth. I'm not so sure about that now and have been exposed to a lot of conflicting studies, information and positions.

I have learned a lot about the difference between Republicans and conservatives.

I was against gay marraige but I have since decided the government nor any other person has the right to tell two consenting adults how to live their lives.

[Thanatos144]

You know whats funny? The last terrorist attack was foiled and wouldn't have been foiled if not for the Patriot act. I also have yet to see any Americans rights trampled on by this bill. I have yet to see how you are all less free? How does having a wire tap warrant not be on the device but on the person destroy your freedom?

[fava]

The Hannity Board changed my foolish notion that there were some liberals rooted in reality and could be reasoned with.

[Greyclouds]

The Hannity forum has made me change my mind on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Prior to my attendance here, my only two sources of information were from two college classes I took:

1. A History of Nazi Germany taught by a 2nd generation Holocaust survivor (the son of a Holocaust survivor). The professor of the class was by far my favorite in my undergraduate studies (and that is saying alot, since I was a die-hard Biology major :D). He was able to take a very logical and methodical approach at dissecting the influences of the post-WWI Wiemar Republic on Nazism as well as his discussion of the after-effects of the war (up to the formation of Israel and the dissolution of Eastern Europe under Soviet occupation).

2. The Palestinian Plight taught by an older Palestinian refugee that fled with his family to Britain and then finally came to America. I clashed a tiny bit with him over my interpretation of some Kafka novels, but overall he was a good professor. His explanation of why everyone "hates" America made quite a bit of sense to me, "it is because America is the superpower; everyone else is jealous!"


I leaned a bit more towards sympathy for the Palestinian people primarily because of their technological and military inferiority towards the Israelis. I mean, let's face it: if the Palestinians wanted to defend themselves, they could not. While noone here might sympathize with active elements of the PLO, I found myself sympathizing towards the innocent civilians that lived in the territories.

After some insight by honored guests on this forum, I've come to view the conflict in a two-fold new perspective:

1. Americans cannot help end the conflict. Nope, nadda; just can't do it. This is a personal conflict that has too much emotional stock invested by both sides. Even mediation is bound to fail because of this emotional investment. Unconditional surrender is the name of the game here, and both sides attempt to achieve it in different ways, at least on the political front. On the personal front, I see many Israelis and Palestinians who want peace, but there are SO MANY flavors of peace-ideas amongst their movements as to be absolutely incomprehensible!

2. There are humans on both sides of the conflict. Innocent people who are caught up in political posturing and ruthless use of military forces. I do not think that I can take sides in such an argument.


Outside mediation appears to be ineffective, and political glut and power drives the conflict further. I think that if our goal is to achieve peace quickly, we should turn a blind eye to the conflict. If our goal is to preserve human life, then we will be fighting for centuries. If we seek to achieve stability in the region... well, that is a more difficult and costly endeavor.

[MrShotShot]

Gay marriage is a big one for me. I used to be "oh hells no" about the whole thing and I've come to realize that, frankly, who cares. In the scheme of what we're trying to tackle in the world, whether or not Jim and Joe can get married really doesn't matter to me.

I've also come to realize that a lot of the social stuff that voters get so worked up about is simply a smoke screen so our elected officials can hide behind.

[toreyj01]

The Hannity Board changed my foolish notion that there were some liberals rooted in reality and could be reasoned with.

+1. Well done!

[kat]

You know whats funny? The last terrorist attack was foiled and wouldn't have been foiled if not for the Patriot act. I also have yet to see any Americans rights trampled on by this bill. I have yet to see how you are all less free? How does having a wire tap warrant not be on the device but on the person destroy your freedom?


Slippery slope. It always seems to happen that way with govt dont' you think?

[perrioso]

I've become more conservative, though still hold much of my idealism. I was still in high school on 9/11 and I'd say that's when I became much more politically cognizant. I'm now much more likely to challenge my liberal friends on their beliefs, and push them to their end game.

[croupier101]

The Hannity Board changed my foolish notion that there were some liberals rooted in reality

Good point, now I gotta head back to the thread you created entitled: "The US headed towards Armageddon"

http://forums.hannity.com/showthread.php?t=1660391

[Vaard]

well, prior to joining, i used to think that republicans were anti liberal/socialism/communism/marxism/facism........


now i realize they are not against, they just want to be the ones doing it.........

[nortman]

I can state, unequivocally, that my google-fu is much stronger now than it ever was before.

As is my BS detector (re: "I fired all of my Obama supporters" threads)

Hey, my cat voted for Obama. I kicked his butt out of the house!

[Jabbamagnus]

The Hannity Board changed my foolish notion that there were some liberals rooted in reality and could be reasoned with.

I also have to +1 on this. :think:

[Greyclouds]

Hey, my cat voted for Obama. I kicked his butt out of the house!

My parrot sang a song about worshiping Obama and I reported him to flag@whitehouse.gov

[shrek]

I can state, unequivocally, that my google-fu is much stronger now than it ever was before.

As is my BS detector (re: "I fired all of my Obama supporters" threads)

Dr Funk,

I agree. My Goog Fu (LOL) is definately stronger.

I also agree, I have tried for the most part to stay away from those threads. I mean even if true they are childish at best and do nothing to help draw people to conservativism.

Instead they help convince people that Conservatives are actually the Cold hearted Mean Spirited Jerks that many liberals think we are.

(Note I do have a heart. I do care what happens to others. And I am not rich)

[ThrowCop]

Yea I feel I have moved beyond such nonsense.:hug:

Aren't you the cutest little liberal...

[Thanatos144]

Slippery slope. It always seems to happen that way with govt dont' you think?

What slope? The fact that instead of following the device your following the criminal? It is just logical and they should have done it decades ago.

[Mishiny]

I can't think of much that I have changed my mind on other than the gay-marriage issue. Why should it bother me if they are allowed to marry?

I've learned more about politics than I ever thought I would care to know and find it interesting and enjoy researching issues. I've complained about the media "shaping" the way people think for 10+ years and only learned FoxNews existed about a year ago! Who knew there were others that thought this way?

I enjoy hearing both sides of the issues and some of my favorite posters are left-leaning. Doug makes me laugh every day! LOL Some not so much.

Most importantly from those I respect the most (and many know who they are), I've learned a gentle respectful way of thinking, responding and learning from others whether I agree with them or not. :flag:

[aep1974]

I've changed my mind on the Patriot Act and have, overall, become much more Libertarian-minded.

[kat]

What slope? The fact that instead of following the device your following the criminal? It is just logical and they should have done it decades ago.


I believe it gives too much power to the Executive upsetting the nature of checks and balances.

[nortman]

The Hannity Board changed my foolish notion that there were some liberals rooted in reality and could be reasoned with.

:rolleyes:
It opened my eyes to the fact that we can debate civilly in most instances with people who disagree. There are a few who are incapable of civil debate, but for the most part we can act like adults.

[nortman]

My parrot sang a song about worshiping Obama and I reported him to flag@whitehouse.gov

:))

[deportalllibs]

Good point, now I gotta head back to the thread you created entitled: "The US headed towards Armageddon"

http://forums.hannity.com/showthread.php?t=1660391

Fava my apologies but croup that was damn funny! :)):)):))

[BillBrown]

Great idea for a thread.

I've learned there is very little difference between Democrats and Republicans. It a matter of how much and how quickly- not basic philosophy.

[Mojotiger]

This board has helped me define my political views and realize that I don't fit into any particular archetype. It's also shown me just how many hateful ****ers there are in this world.

[Guild-Sfire]

well, prior to joining, i used to think that republicans were anti liberal/socialism/communism/marxism/facism........


now i realize they are not against, they just want to be the ones doing it.........

http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e200/guild-sfire/happyclap.gif

[BillBrown]

From a people standpoint, I've been amazed to learn how many people refuse to admit that they are wrong, even when they know they are wrong.

[Greyclouds]

From a people standpoint, I've been amazed to learn how many people refuse to admit that they are wrong, even when they know they are wrong.

I think that's more of an "internet" thing, though. If you're wrong on the internet, you at least have the shield of anonymity.

[Thanatos144]

I believe it gives too much power to the Executive upsetting the nature of checks and balances.

How? They still need a warrant to wiretap. They just now get to listen to what ever device the suspect uses instead of just one.

[nebcon]

How? They still need a warrant to wiretap. They just now get to listen to what ever device the suspect uses instead of just one.

At the risk of helping you derail this well thought out thread, no they haven't been getting warrants. In fact the NSA wiretapping program has been an utter failure, hasn't made anyone safer, and has been found to be riddled with abuse (in other words you don't know who they have been looking at, why, or whether there has been a warrant.). It also was determined by the Bush admin to be so legally questionable, that the program has been useless to intel agencies because of the built in secrecy.

["Doc"]

Here is an open forum for everyone to show their pragmatic side. What ideological view(s) have you changed since joining this forum?

Please try to be civil and try to refrain from bashing.

I will start with my own, I was against gay marriage before reading this board. While I would never marry a man, I now think it is none of my business. I also think it is a states rights issue, but, that is a separate argument.

What say you?


I've always felt it was none of my business if Adam marries Steve. Why should I care? It does not alter how I look at marriage or affect my marriage in any manner. What others do does not erode my morals what so ever nor does it affect what and how I teach my kids.

Certainly changed my mind on the Patriot Act. I never realized what a slippery slope it was until reading a few astute posters' opinions on it.

I never liked the Patriot Act. Thought at the time it was a bit over the top and had too much potential for abuse.


But I think the gist of the OP is how has the way I see things politically changes since I began reading this forum. I'm not sure any of my core beliefs have been altered but I do know I am much more informed. I think many things that bother me today would have never been brought to my attention. Its also nice to see the other side presented in a reasonable manner as SOME liberals who post here do.

[Thanatos144]

At the risk of helping you derail this well thought out thread, no they haven't been getting warrants. In fact the NSA wiretapping program has been an utter failure, hasn't made anyone safer, and has been found to be riddled with abuse (in other words you don't know who they have been looking at, why, or whether there has been a warrant.). It also was determined by the Bush admin to be so legally questionable, that the program has been useless to intel agencies because of the built in secrecy.

Back up the myth.

[nebcon]

I have had a very long list of political beliefs and principles validated while being a member of this board. Gained some good friends, and learned far more about economics than I would have ever guessed learning from a venue like this.

["Doc"]

Politicians are consistently a disapointment

You had to come here to learn that? LOL.

[Mohawk5]

The GOP does not have all the answers. Both parties are full of crooks. Make sure you watch what both hands are doing. I got lost in support for the war in Iraq and did not see the other horrible decisions being made by our President. Thanks to liberals on here I will no longer allow myself to be blinded by support of my party.

[nebcon]

Back up the myth.

http://arstechnica.com/tech-policy/news/2009/07/black-box-origins.ars

http://arstechnica.com/tech-policy/news/2009/07/nsa-program-too-secret.ars

Posted in at least two threads that you participated in. I trust you will actually read and learn this time.

[ValricoKate]

This forum has made me change my mind about working with those on the left, to seek common ground. The ultra left is dragging them further and further left.

I see now they have no desire to compromise they will continue to march left ...they are like automatons, to compromise is to give them an inch.
Next week they will be back for the mile.

I have also changed my mind about libertarians ...I used to think they were all pot smoking hippies that just wanted to make money. (I know now that they are not all like that) ;)

[cshoff]

My views have steadily evolved from those of a Republican, to those of a Constitutionalist/Libertarian/Conservative. I have come to realize that big government under any name (Democrat or Republican) is bad government. And I have learned that both parties pervert and usurp our Constitution equally for reasons of polical expediency.

[JimGP20]

When I first came to the forums, I had the opinion that liberals were stupid and blind. Now I see that they are, for the most part, reasonable folks who just happen to look at issues differently than I do.

[ValricoKate]

My views have steadily evolved from those of a Republican, to those of a Constitutionalist/Libertarian/Conservative. I have come to realize that big government under any name (Democrat or Republican) is bad government. And I have learned that both parties pervert and usurp our Constitution equally for reasons of polical expediency.

qft

[kat]

How? They still need a warrant to wiretap. They just now get to listen to what ever device the suspect uses instead of just one.

They have unchecked, broad ability to issue National Security Letters without a warrant.

[Dr. Funkenstein]

:hug:

Aren't you the cutest little liberal...
<snicker>

[Thanatos144]

http://arstechnica.com/tech-policy/news/2009/07/black-box-origins.ars

http://arstechnica.com/tech-policy/news/2009/07/nsa-program-too-secret.ars

Posted in at least two threads that you participated in. I trust you will actually read and learn this time.

Why dont you show me in the bill where it is instead of what some guy tells you what is in it.

[nebcon]

This forum has made me change my mind about working with those on the left, to seek common ground. The ultra left is dragging them further and further left.

I see now they have no desire to compromise they will continue to march left ...they are like automatons, to compromise is to give them an inch.
Next week they will be back for the mile.

I have also changed my mind about libertarians ...I used to think they were all pot smoking hippies that just wanted to make money. (I know now that they are not all like that) ;)

:hug:

That's what Liberals do, they are the opposition, they know it and act accordingly. It has been much like Lucy, Charlie Brown and the football. They entice us to "work" with them, we commit and they pull the football away. This is politics and everyone is fighting for what they want. It is indeed a battle on numerous levels, that is the only way to treat it.

[Dr. Funkenstein]

When I first came to the forums, I had the opinion that liberals were stupid and blind. Now I see that they are, for the most part, reasonable folks who just happen to look at issues differently than I do.
That's absolutely true.

And I MARRIED a liberal :shifty:

[aep1974]

Why dont you show me in the bill where it is instead of what some guy tells you what is in it.

Thanatos, please create a separate thread if you'd like to debate this with folks.

[Thanatos144]

Oh this forum also changed how I see debate. It use to be an open debate till about a year ago.

[aep1974]

my views have steadily evolved from those of a republican, to those of a constitutionalist/libertarian/conservative. I have come to realize that big government under any name (democrat or republican) is bad government. And i have learned that both parties pervert and usurp our constitution equally for reasons of polical expediency.

+ 1,000

[nebcon]

Why dont you show me in the bill where it is instead of what some guy tells you what is in it.

:)) You sound like a Liberal on the subject of healthcare reform. The articles chronicle massive ineffectiveness and abuse in that program. Just as in the health care debate, it's not just about what is "in the bill" it is the power that government is being granted, the doors that are being opened. It isn't that difficult of a concept. Once the government has that power, it can morph it into whatever authoritarian measure it sees fit, with no further authorization from you.

[Thanatos144]

:)) You sound like a Liberal on the subject of healthcare reform. The articles chronicle massive ineffectiveness and abuse in that program. Just as in the health care debate, it's not just about what is "in the bill" it is the power that government is being granted, the doors that are being opened. It isn't that difficult of a concept. Once the government has that power, it can morph it into whatever authoritarian measure it sees fit, with no further authorization from you.Illogical

[nebcon]

Oh this forum also changed how I see debate. It use to be an open debate till about a year ago.

Why because people ask you to stop trolling and derailing threads?

http://i341.photobucket.com/albums/o362/ccr65/post_resource/Tantrum-1.jpg

[Thanatos144]

Why because people ask you to stop trolling and derailing threads?

http://i341.photobucket.com/albums/o362/ccr65/post_resource/Tantrum-1.jpg

No it was about when the paultrolls came here.

[nebcon]

Illogical

http://i341.photobucket.com/albums/o362/ccr65/post_resource/258trollspray.jpg

[nebcon]

No it was about when the paultrolls came here.

Ah yes, your obsession, who could forget.

[bella-day]

Gay marriage is a big one for me. I used to be "oh hells no" about the whole thing and I've come to realize that, frankly, who cares. In the scheme of what we're trying to tackle in the world, whether or not Jim and Joe can get married really doesn't matter to me.

I've also come to realize that a lot of the social stuff that voters get so worked up about is simply a smoke screen so our elected officials can hide behind.

You and I are following the same path.

I've come to the conclusion that social issues are wild cards that are tossed on the table when the politician of the hour needs them most.

A wild card that should never be played the way it is because the majority of social issues should be determined by state law not federal.

I'll also agree regarding research. Thanks to this forum and its members I read a wider range of viewpoints, relative facts, and perspectives regarding news stories. I've learned to never trust just one source.

[LJ14]

When I first came to the forums, I had the opinion that liberals were stupid and blind. Now I see that they are, for the most part, reasonable folks who just happen to look at issues differently than I do.

Weird. Because I've actually gone the opposite way, having LOST respect for them. :neutral:
Don't get me wrong. I'm grateful that the Hannity board is more tolerant of dissent than liberal forums. Otherwise, I wouldn't truly understand the complexities of the conflict.

When I came here, I thought liberal ideology was a simple matter of the idealism of youth coupled with a lack of political understanding. And to be honest, I still think that's the bottom line for average people out in the real world.

But... people who engage in political discussion daily, can't claim ignorance, can they? :eh:
I've watched over the course of the last year unbelievable examples of partisan hypocrisy and an inexplicable embrace of Collectivism in direct opposition to the American ideal of Individual Liberty. And even when the problems with that are explained in minute detail... the majority of liberals continue to cleave to their socialist memes. It's not an accident at that point. It's an agenda.

What's become clear to me is that Modern American Liberalism, Progressivism, is NOT about social empathy. It's about power-brokering, greed, and theft.

[Thanatos144]

http://i341.photobucket.com/albums/o362/ccr65/post_resource/258trollspray.jpg

You are becoming more a waste of my time each day. You knw what? If you dont like my points or cant debate them ether be quiet about it like I do or put me on your ignore list.

[ChaosControl]

Well when I first joined I supported foreign interventionism and I was an extreme social conservative.

I am still personally socially conservative, but the change is that I don't feel my views should be forced on others through the government. So like you gave, the whole *** marriage thing, I think it is no one's business.

On foreign policy, I became non-interventionist. Although I was never hardcore pro-war, I was okay with interventionism if it benefited us. Now I simply see it as none of our business, what right do we have to tell others how to do things.

Economics I'm the same as I was before.

But I'm not really sure it is this place that made me change my view on any of these things. However, I did so there they are.

Edit: Oh and before I would vote for the lesser evil before. Now I only vote FOR someone, I'll stick to my principles since the lesser evil is still evil.

[nebcon]

You are becoming more a waste of my time each day. You knw what? If you dont like my points or cant debate them ether be quiet about it like I do or put me on your ignore list.

I don't do the ignore list. I have no need for it. I'm a big boy, if I can't discuss a divisive issue like politics with strangers calmly then I shouldn't be discussing it.

The fact is, you are trying to take this discussion away from the subject. You are the disruptive influence here not I. The fact that you want to make every thread about your hatred of Libertarians and Ron Paul is pathetic, and doesn't contribute anything of value to this board.

Now run along to your little chocolate milk thread and let the adults talk.

[Bluesgtr44]

Global Warming. I didn't have a defined stance on the issue. I have learned a ton on the issue since joining the forum, specifically from Lee. I still don't have a political stance on the issue, but at least I feel much more informed.

Hear, here! I thought I had understood a good bit of what was being discussed about this in the main outlets. A big thanks to Lee for keeping this on the front burner with so much of the stuff that gets left out. I still think we need to pull away from the amount of fossil fuels we use, but we don't have to act like the "sky is falling" ala the liberal power grab mantra.

[Thanatos144]

I don't do the ignore list. I have no need for it. I'm a big boy, if I can't discuss a divisive issue like politics with strangers calmly then I shouldn't be discussing it.

The fact is, you are trying to take this discussion away from the subject. You are the disruptive influence here not I. The fact that you want to make every thread about your hatred of Libertarians and Ron Paul is pathetic, and doesn't contribute anything of value to this board.

Now run along to your little chocolate milk thread and let the adults talk.

The OP Brought up the Patriot act Not me. I didnt derail squat.

[curtis123]

Within the 10,000 posts on this board, I've changed my mind on how to debate with liberals and Democrats and debate in general. I started out with the common stick-it-in-your-face mentality, as most of the angry people start out here with and I apologize for that. It's much better to have a discussion rather than an argument. Ideas are born of calm voices.

Some on both sides of this board have yet to learn that. I've learned that the liberals and Democrats are mostly real nice people and once in a while, make a good point.

Wrong, but nice. :D

I've learned that Democrats and liberals have good intentions, as we all do, and when it all boils down, we have the same ultimate goals. Just different ideas on how to get there.

[adroit]

I've learned how little I know.
I've learned how much I hate politics, yet I can't stay away.
I've learned how blind people are, including myself at times.
I've learned not to just go along with what I was told when growing up.
I've learned I absolutely love evolution threads.

[ChaosControl]

I've learned how much I hate politics, yet I can't stay away.
Oh boy, that sure fits me.

[deportalllibs]

You had to come here to learn that? LOL.

Label me an optimist

[ThinkingMan]

Here is an open forum for everyone to show their pragmatic side. What ideological view(s) have you changed since joining this forum?

Please try to be civil and try to refrain from bashing.

I will start with my own, I was against gay marriage before reading this board. While I would never marry a man, I now think it is none of my business. I also think it is a states rights issue, but, that is a separate argument.

What say you?

You were against gay "marriage?"

Shame you didn't read any of my posts.

[Kentucky Thinker]

well, prior to joining, i used to think that republicans were anti liberal/socialism/communism/marxism/facism........


Now i realize they are not against, they just want to be the ones doing it.........

:)) + 100

[rckirby]

I came here a basically 'political noob'.

I'd never had any interest, because I was naive in that nothing was going to get done by either 'side' that was unconstitutional..................(I know...right?)

Coming here has taught me that both 'sides' have been screwing with our heads for decades.........

But, try as I might, I cannot fathom how a liberal thinks......I cannot fathom how they continue to believe that g'mint is the answer to everything, and are so willing to give up their individuality for the sake of the 'collective'.

Maybe if I stick around here, the answer will come......but I probably won't like it.

Also have been changing my mind on 'wars' in general.....I've pretty much done a 180 there.

[Kentucky Thinker]

Good point, now I gotta head back to the thread you created entitled: "The US headed towards Armageddon"

http://forums.hannity.com/showthread.php?t=1660391

:))

[merlin704]

Libertarians, 1 specifically here, have opened my eyes to their way of fiscal responsibility. Though I am what is in my sig, I appreciate the good debates we have and understand that even though we disagree on 5%, we agree on the other 95%.

[PaleoPaul]

I've come to terms with everything about myself, what I believe in, who I am, etc, in more ways than one.

[Gaetano "Tommy" Lucchese]

Here is an open forum for everyone to show their pragmatic side. What ideological view(s) have you changed since joining this forum?

Please try to be civil and try to refrain from bashing.

I will start with my own, I was against gay marriage before reading this board. While I would never marry a man, I now think it is none of my business. I also think it is a states rights issue, but, that is a separate argument.

What say you?

Geopolitics and military grand strategy. Sparring with posters like Sneaky and Cav Scout forced me to go read up on counterinsurgency and unconventional warfare and all that good stuff, because I hate to lose. Changed my mind about a lot of things.

[toreyj01]

I came here a basically 'political noob'.

I'd never had any interest, because I was naive in that nothing was going to get done by either 'side' that was unconstitutional..................(I know...right?)

Coming here has taught me that both 'sides' have been screwing with our heads for decades.........

But, try as I might, I cannot fathom how a liberal thinks......I cannot fathom how they continue to believe that g'mint is the answer to everything, and are so willing to give up their individuality for the sake of the 'collective'.

Maybe if I stick around here, the answer will come......but I probably won't like it.

Also have been changing my mind on 'wars' in general.....I've pretty much done a 180 there.
The way I view the role of government, I don't think we advocate a "hive" mentality at all. Quite simply put, we must always understand the role of regulation, which is a fine balance between overintrusiveness on the one hand and anarchy on the other.

A completely deregulated market would be hell on earth as far as wages, environmental concerns, etc. Child labor laws are a good example of good regulation. So is a minimum wage. Companies should not be able to dump toxic waste down the middle of Main Street, nor should they let it leak into your well water.

And if they benefit from operating here, they shouldn't change their address to some banana republic so they can avoid paying taxes.

On the other hand, there has to be some sort of tradeoff, which is where the Dems typically come up clueless and thus job creation suffers.

[muhadeeb99]

Even that it has been a long process, I have shed the last dredges of liberalism. From this forum I have become an independent conservative. At my age, I have grown into a comfortable area of life.

[johnrocks]

Although my stand on the major issues have not changed in decades, I guess, I have become more aware of the different ideas others have, I'm much more educated politically;thanks to posters of all persuasions and I am probably ;if I've changed; am probably even more libertarian slanted than I was when I joined, if that is even possible,lol.

[barik]

What say you?

I used to believe global warming hook, line and sinker, but now I'm not so certain. I still think that need we to be environmentally responsible, of course.

Also, before I joined these forums I didn't care about gay marriage either way. These forums have actually made me strongly in favor of it now. Ironically, it largely because of the opposition that I switched sides completely, not because of proponents who made good arguments.

[Justus]

I became less left wing because of the Bush bashing. I came here and I became less right wing because of the Obama bashing, but I haven't completely switched and I don't think I will :liar:

[barik]

I became less left wing because of the Bush bashing. I came here and I became less right wing because of the Obama bashing, but I haven't completely switched and I don't think I will :liar:

Oh yeah, that's another thing. I stopped the insults towards Bush. I criticized him of course, and continue to do so, but I stopped resorting to childish name calling. Of course, now that Obama is President it seems that for many the rules are now reversed.

[mtdim]

It's great to see that so many conservatives have changed their opinions on gay marriage. As for myself, I have significantly moderated my view of abortion. I'm still pro-choice, but I have been convinced by information on fetal development that I've seen posted here that abortion should only be legal very early in the pregnancy.

[perrioso]

Oh yeah, that's another thing. I stopped the insults towards Bush. I criticized him of course, and continue to do so, but I stopped resorting to childish name calling. Of course, now that Obama is President it seems that for many the rules are now reversed.

Weird how that works. I'm not all that thrilled about Obama, but the degree that people go to here somehow makes me defensive. Not that I post much, but I like to get opposing views. And oft times I get a good laugh out of it too.

[rckirby]

It's great to see that so many conservatives have changed their opinions on gay marriage. As for myself, I have significantly moderated my view of abortion. I'm still pro-choice, but I have been convinced by information on fetal development that I've seen posted here that abortion should only be legal very early in the pregnancy.

The feds shouldn't be invoved in either issue.........that is the one thing I DID learn here !!

[Dem]

While I still classify myself as liberal, thanks to posters like johnrocks, I've learned that I have quite a few libertarian tendencies. I've learned that both parties suck.

While I was once a firm believer in global warming/climate change, I no longer believe humans are the problem, or if there is even a problem.

I've also learned, that while republicans say they are for small government, they don't mind big government, as long as they are the ones doing it.

Oh, and thanks to posters like Tommy, I now have a little more understanding about foreign policy.

[Dr. Funkenstein]

I've learned that friends can let friends vote Republican.

I've also learned that friends can let friends vote Democrat.

Because I've learned that there are genuinely great people on both sides who really believe in what their side is doing rather than being on a side just for the sake of being on a side.

I've also unfortunately learned that there are still waaaaaay too many people who ARE on a side simply for the sake of being on a side rather than just believing in their own political independence.

[osamayomama]

I learned that the way I feel about gay marriage is neither uncommon, or wrong. If God had wanted me to be accepting of Gays, he would have given me the warmth and compassion to do so.

[rhet 2]

1) I'm no longer anti-Gay rights -- not in favor of "marriage" mind you -- but now I think Straight relationships should not be declared "holy matrimony" by the damned State, either -- tell the State to shut its mouth about BOTH -- civil contracts business style only as far as the Law is concerned -- let each religious belief organization handle "marriage" according to its own ideological convictions

2) I'm now pro-choice, except for partial birth late-term pregnancies -- if the kid is born breathing, to kill it by deliberate action or to refuse to do everything in our power to keep it alive -- that's plain disgusting social violence to the nth degree, as savage as the ancient Greeks just throwing unwanted kids out for animals to murder and eat -- though irresponsible selfish careless sex freaks too damned lazy and incompetent to either get the Pill, buy condoms, get a tubal ligation or a vasectomy -- or even "Just Say No" -- who use abortion as retroactive birth control need to get their stupid, short-sighted, dumb ass butts FORCED into celebacy, since they're obviouslyl too damned weak in heart and mind to accept responsibility for their own actions

3) I'm much more anti-Lilberal and anti-Democrat than ever before: can't see one of the current bunch of party pigs as a decent, responsible, half-caring human being -- Lieberman is the best Democrat on the block, and the pigs tried to savage him because he wouldn't cave to their Hate Democracy Communist Lords in the Making

4) George Bush WAS an idiot on a lot of issues -- but not Iraq, despite the Party of Vietnam Horrors lies and ******** Bush bashing games -- and one of his biggest flaws was not attacking the Politburo of the United States and its TASS slaves hard enough. Pelosi and her cohorts in crime committed treason when they sought alliance with Syria and the Destroyers of Lebanon, alliance with Chavez and the Destroyers of Venezuela -- and they should already be wearing orange jumpsuits in maximum security for their treason and their encouragement of treason in Justice and in CIA and in State.

5) I now KNOW that we've got to get some form and means of holding accountable not just those elected every two years, four years, and six years, but those who are appointed to office, ESPECIALLY the judiciary, otherwise the Republic is dead. That Dodd is going to "get off" for destroying the hopes and dreams of so many honest poor citizens through that CRA Scam ticks me off beyond all measure. And that Obama actually thinks that POTUS holds more power than any previous President ever dared exercise is still worse.

[Residential Bob]

I've always been conservative, and my basic stances really haven't changed much. Except possibly for global warming. I am now more skeptical of it than I used to be.

[roger teekell]

First of all Interesting Topic...Kudos

As for what I have learned here at Hannity...I've learned that two people can look at a picture and see two COMPLETLY DIFFERENT things.

But that does not make them a bad person or wrong...It just means they see it differently...

I've learned that when you debate here you better have your facts straight or someone will BURY you in the discussion...This is a place for the well versed.

[barik]

2) I'm now pro-choice, except for partial birth late-term pregnancies


Interesting, probably should have mentioned it. I went the other way. When I first came here I was pro-choice all the way, but now (thanks to other posters) I think that abortion should only be allowed in the early stages of pregnancy. Certainly not late term.

Maybe there is actually room to meet in the middle.

[jmb6]

Edit: Oh and before I would vote for the lesser evil before. Now I only vote FOR someone, I'll stick to my principles since the lesser evil is still evil.

Yeah. I live in Barney Frank's district and I just left it blank. I could not bring myself to vote for the guy running against him, despite the fact I really, really don't like him.

[jmb6]

You were against gay "marriage?"

Shame you didn't read any of my posts.

Sorry thinking man, I didn't want to have to include the definition of a man and a woman blah blah blah.

Case noted.

[Mohawk5]

Great posts learning a lot about you all today.

[jmb6]

Just got through reading and this is a who's who of the Hannity Forums. I hope Lee and Mal stop by to say "Hi".

[horse28]

I have become more informed about the meaning of terms such as libertarian, RINO etc...also more aware of the dangers of government takeover.

[jmb6]

Just realized I have 1200 posts. Sometimes, when I am having a bad day at work, I snap at people and for that I apologize.

BTW, I am a registered Independent, but, in MA I can vote in either primary and I voted in the Repub primary (The guy I wanted lost. QQ)

[jmb6]

I see spinach is on the board, and, I would love to see him chime in even if it is to say "I learned that marxist scumbags in the White House will kill the country from the inside out." :)

He's like the grumpy uncle who comes over for Thanksgiving Dinner complains about lumps in the gravy but still eats 3 helpings.

P.S. I love you Spinach, don't change a thing.

[Dr. Funkenstein]

I see spinach is on the board, and, I would love to see him chime in even if it is to say "I learned that marxist scumbags in the White House will kill the country from the inside out." :)

He's like the grumpy uncle who comes over for Thanksgiving Dinner complains about lumps in the gravy but still eats 3 helpings.

P.S. I love you Spinach, don't change a thing.
<chuckle>

[adroit]

I learned that the way I feel about gay marriage is neither uncommon, or wrong. If God had wanted me to be accepting of Gays, he would have given me the warmth and compassion to do so.

I hope I'm not the only one who got The Onion reference :D

[Dr. Funkenstein]

I hope I'm not the only one who got The Onion reference :D
I need to read the Onion more, apparently :doh:

[barik]

He's like the grumpy uncle who comes over for Thanksgiving Dinner complains about lumps in the gravy but still eats 3 helpings.


:))

[osamayomama]

I hope I'm not the only one who got The Onion reference :D


i really should have given the onion some cred here.... yes, this quote was TOTALLY ripped off, and i think you ARE the only one that got it.

[Angra Mainyu]

I was a conservative before I joined this forum. :))

[adroit]

I need to read the Onion more, apparently :doh:

Same here. Only reason I knew about the reference was one of my friends posted the link on Twitter about an hour ago.

I start cracking up just reading the headlines on the front page.

"Obama To Enter Diplomatic Talks With Raging Wildfire"
"New Anti-Smoking Ads Warn Teens 'It's Gay To Smoke'"

Priceless.

[BrittleBullet]

I am now anti-gun control thanks to the board.

I am also now as anti-Democrat as I was anti-Republican.

[RWB]

I've learned to choose why words more carefully. Many posters here articulates good

[jmb6]

Bump before I leave work for the day.

[Antrel]

I joined this forum about a month after I returned from Iraq. I was strongly supportive of OIF, government-sponsored social programs, gay rights legislation, legalizing of (some) drugs. I voted for Ralph Nader in 2004. I'm not sure how it would be described, but perhaps pro-war liberal? At the time, I regarded myself completely as a liberal in foreign and domestic policy, and acknowledged that interventionism isn't a conservative concept.

This board actually threw me in a conservative direction, among many things offline, but I disagreed with the social authoritarian concepts spouted by a lot of people. I grew an affection for the statute that "government is always the problem, never the solution." For a brief time I considered myself a "constitutional conservative," a "classical liberal" or what have you. I've done a lot of research and self-reflection in the four years I've been registered to the forum. I tried to find the silver-lining the conservatives kept referring to - before all the "socialism." All I could find was an era of slavery, intense demographic favoritism, and immediate interjection into the economy - all legitimized and in most cases enforced by the Constitution. It's pretty transparent as an article referring to a strong federal authority, and even more totalitarianship for the states within the Union. Further research, on and off forums, proved that there is no such thing as freedom through government. I found myself having to believe in the fact that "government is always the problem" as a literal statement.

I believe in free markets in the only way they can exist, with free people. From Nader supporter to anarchist. I let the rest fight over the throne of authority. But arguing and learning from people on the Hannity forums was one of my biggest influences.

[ThrowCop]

I am now anti-gun control thanks to the board.

I am also now as anti-Democrat as I was anti-Republican.Same here. I was borderline for gun control just a couple of years ago. I have done a virtual 180 on that issue & this board was a major contributor to that. Strangely so were the Bowling for Columbine movie & Penn & Teller's BS Showtime program.

[ISYairio]

Newt Gingrich.

He got me into this stuff, but now I seriously doubt I could ever vote for him even with a 10-foot pole.

And stuff related to that... shouldn't be hard to get some idea of what I mean.

[AvgGuyIA]

As a Conservative I have come to realize that Goeagles was right: The Press knows what is best for us and we should not question Dear Leader.

[livia]

From an outsider point of view, this board has taught me a lot more about American politics/history/cultural issues - always an interest for me as it was included in my university degree.

I always felt that Americans were mad to be against gun control, but after reading this board I've come to realise that if I was living in America I too would want to know how to handle a gun. In terms of gun ownership that "horse" has definitely bolted and it's pointless to try to shut the stable door now! It's made me realise that despite our much proclaimed "special relationship" there are actually huge cultural difference between Britain and the US. As much as it may pain some Brits, we as a society have moved more towards the European mindset and away from the more traditional conversative view still held in the US.

[BasicGreatGuy]

I haven't changed my mind of anything since I have been a member. I have made friends, learned new information, and seen some viewpoints in ways I haven't thought of before. In my opinion, that is a good thing.

[nortman]

Oh yeah, that's another thing. I stopped the insults towards Bush. I criticized him of course, and continue to do so, but I stopped resorting to childish name calling. Of course, now that Obama is President it seems that for many the rules are now reversed.It's payback. But, I think it's been going on so long that neither side really knows who is paying back whom now.

[nortman]

I've learned that friends can let friends vote Republican.

I've also learned that friends can let friends vote Democrat.

Because I've learned that there are genuinely great people on both sides who really believe in what their side is doing rather than being on a side just for the sake of being on a side.

I've also unfortunately learned that there are still waaaaaay too many people who ARE on a side simply for the sake of being on a side rather than just believing in their own political independence.
So you won't be ****ed at me when I cancel out your vote in the 2012 election? :hug:

[nortman]

I've learned to choose why words more carefully. Many posters here articulates good

Hey, you talk goodly. Give youself sum credet.

[nortman]

As a Conservative I have come to realize that Goeagles was right: The Press knows what is best for us and we should not question Dear Leader.
I bet you didn't even make it through typing the first sentence before you busted up laughing.

[jmb6]

This fell way off. Interested in hearing from some of the "lurkers". Maybe they are all Huff-po reporters.

[opsyscw]

I've learned that Liberalism is a mental disorder.

I've learned just how selfish liberals are, that they really only think of themselves and what the will gain from government wealth redistribution and not how it would hurt a lot of people.

I've learned that the Religion of Peace is not peaceful in any way, shape, manner, or form.

[Andrew_980]

I have learned a lot about jewish religion from Piosonshady and hadassa (probably misspelled that)

learned that the left and right hate each other for the same things they do themselves, and that christians and muslims play the same game.

[Dr. Funkenstein]

So you won't be ****ed at me when I cancel out your vote in the 2012 election? :hug:
Depends...who am I voting for in the 2012 election?

More importantly...who did I vote for in '08?

For a hint, I'll simply say it's not who you might think...:razz:

[Mojotiger]

More importantly...who did I vote for in '08?



Cynthia McKinney?

[Dr. Funkenstein]

Cynthia McKinney?
I think my wife would have been happier had that been the answer...:cool:

[Snagglepuss]

I see spinach is on the board, and, I would love to see him chime in even if it is to say "I learned that marxist scumbags in the White House will kill the country from the inside out." :)

He's like the grumpy uncle who comes over for Thanksgiving Dinner complains about lumps in the gravy but still eats 3 helpings.

P.S. I love you Spinach, don't change a thing.:lol:

[Snagglepuss]

I've found myself going from a hardcore Republican to a small govt libertarian type. I've discovered that both of the major parties suck, and both just want their own form of Big Govt. I've also learned that Dr. Funk likes pancakes and tomato soup (not necessarily together, though who knows....)

[nebcon]

From an outsider point of view, this board has taught me a lot more about American politics/history/cultural issues - always an interest for me as it was included in my university degree.

I always felt that Americans were mad to be against gun control, but after reading this board I've come to realise that if I was living in America I too would want to know how to handle a gun. In terms of gun ownership that "horse" has definitely bolted and it's pointless to try to shut the stable door now! It's made me realise that despite our much proclaimed "special relationship" there are actually huge cultural difference between Britain and the US. As much as it may pain some Brits, we as a society have moved more towards the European mindset and away from the more traditional conversative view still held in the US.

Thank you for sharing, your response is actually one of the most interesting ones in this thread.

[Dr. Funkenstein]

I've found myself going from a hardcore Republican to a small govt libertarian type. I've discovered that both of the major parties suck, and both just want their own form of Big Govt. I've also learned that Dr. Funk likes pancakes and tomato soup (not necessarily together, though who knows....)
I remember divulging the tomato soup information, but where did you hear about the pancakes?

I thought I'd sworn everyone to secrecy on that one...

But no...never simultaneously. Grilled cheese with tomato soup...now you're talking.

[Snagglepuss]

I remember divulging the tomato soup information, but where did you hear about the pancakes?

I thought I'd sworn everyone to secrecy on that one...

But no...never simultaneously. Grilled cheese with tomato soup...now you're talking.
I believe you let the pancake info slip in the "Shame on Obama for not attending Michael Jackson's funeral" thread...I could be wrong though..my memory's been slippin' in me ol' age.... ;)

[Dr. Funkenstein]

I believe you let the pancake info slip in the "Shame on Obama for not attending Michael Jackson's funeral" thread...I could be wrong though..my memory's been slippin' in me ol' age.... ;)
:doh:

I KNEW I shouldn't be drinking that early. My fingers tend to get "talky" when I drink, especially at work ;)

[Snagglepuss]

:))

[JeffR]

I have changed my opinion of the 2nd amendment, partly due to this forum. Ya'll scared me enough to go buy a gun, and so I had to become a strong 2nd amendment supporter! :D

[Snagglepuss]

I have changed my opinion of the 2nd amendment, partly due to this forum. Ya'll scared me enough to go buy a gun, and so I had to become a strong 2nd amendment supporter! :D
Woohoo! Chalk one up for the good guys! ;)

(Bought my first gun since I've joined these forums too, though it has nothing to do with this place, and I was still a big 2nd Ammendment supporter prior to ownership. :cool:)