I was wondering how the story of Romney's dog was discovered, since it didn't seem like there was any kind of official report of it. Turns out, one of his sons told the story in an interview a few years ago as a "humorous" anecdote.

I may be misjudging conservatives, but I know several for whom the feelings of their dog are meaningless--or, to them, nonexistent. It's a creature that God gave them dominion over, somewhat pleasant company, keeps the kids happy. A possession that walks. Worrying about a dog's feelings makes as much sense to them as worrying about the feelings of the toaster.

Someone who used to be part of Bush's administration wrote a book a few years ago called Dominion, looking at animal rights from that point of view. I think the analogy he used is that the dominion that humans are supposed to have over animals is the same as if your parents went out and told you and your younger sibling that you were in charge. You get to make the rules, and your little sibling is supposed to do what you say, but it's all on the condition and expectation that you use this power responsibly and for your little sibling's protection.

I think it is unfair to judge based on political affiliation. There are equal opportunity assholes.

I just spent 45 minutes on the phone talking to my next-next door neighbor. The one whose phone call I missed for a day. Oh man, he had a SHITTY xmas (one of his 12 year old italian greyhounds nearly died, he helped demolish a shed that was so mold ridden, he got sick, HELLO BILLS.) I really feel bad for missing the call now, but luckily he got in touch with someone else. And now we have plans for next week. And I am so totally paying for his meal and drinks.

The love-my-hood never closes.

I may be misjudging conservatives, but I know several for whom the feelings of their dog are meaningless

If you're drawing a link between feelings for pets and being (or not being) conservative, I think you're making connections that don't have substance behind them. I don't think there's a dog-kicking party, and I'm sure it's trivial to find liberals who are cold about animals and conservatives who are crazy about them.

I may be misjudging conservatives, but I know several for whom the feelings of their dog are meaningless--or, to them, nonexistent. It's a creature that God gave them dominion over, somewhat pleasant company, keeps the kids happy. A possession that walks. Worrying about a dog's feelings makes as much sense to them as worrying about the feelings of the toaster.

See also: women.

I think it is unfair to judge based on political affiliation. There are equal opportunity assholes.

I agree. I think that's an incredibly unfair assumption to make.

See also: women.

Seriously? Did conservative get redefined while I was on vacation?

Cute story time. First, some background. CJ earned his red belt in karate a while back and he helps to teach the little kid classes - 4-6 and 7-12 year olds when his schedule allows. Today when he was in the dojo, he was given a Christmas gift from one of his students. A Starbucks card...but awwww.

The sad news is that he won't be able to go to the spring karate tournament. It is scheduled earlier than usual and conflicts with some search and rescue training. At this point, I don't know if I'll be able to compete in March - will see what happens with my shoulder.

Yeah...Republicans or Conservatives are not more likely to be cruel to animals, for god's sake.

Republicans or Conservatives are not more likely to be cruel to animals, for god's sake.

But when will they stop beating their wives?