Learning The Language
by digby
I'm thrilled to see that Steve Benen is updating the Conservative Orwellian Dictionary. It's very important that people understand what these terms mean so that they can keep their heads from exploding:
"Obstructionism," for example, only refers to Democratic minorities opposing Republican proposals.
"Tyranny" is found when an elected Democratic majority passes legislation that Republicans don't like.
"Reconciliation" describes a Senate process that Republicans are allowed to use to overcome Democratic "obstructionism."
"Terrorism" refers to acts of political violence committed by people who aren't white guys.
"Bipartisanship" is found when Democrats agree to pass Republican legislation.
"Big government" describes a dangerous phenomenon to be avoided, except in cases relating to reproductive rights or gays.
"Treason" refers to Democrats criticizing a Republican administration during a war.
"Patriotism" refers to Republicans criticizing a Democratic administration during a war.
"Fiscal responsibility" is a national priority related to keeping our deficit in check, which only applies when Republicans are in the minority.
"Parliamentarian" is a seemingly independent official on the Hill who Senate Republicans are allowed to fire when the GOP disapproves of his/her rulings.
His commenters have added many more. My personal favorite is this:
Torture: Waterboarding, stress positions, exposure to extreme heat and cold, when committed by persons of color with names like Ahmed, especially against Americans.
Enhanced interrogation techniques: Identical to above, except that it is performed by Americans against persons of color with names like Ahmed.
.
.