The unique perspective and provocative opinions of Joe O’Neill
Quoteworthy
“The cross is not a flag to wave, but the pure source of a new way of living.”—Pope Francis, in rejecting the use of the cross and other religious symbols as political tools.
“Just two, three years ago, it was very in vogue for Chinese families to send their children to American institutions. We’ve noticed a decrease in that culture … and it’s unfortunate.”—Joseph Ingram of SOS Admissions, a college consulting agency.
“When people feel uncertain, they’d rather have someone who’s strong and wrong than somebody who’s weak and right.”—Former President Bill Clinton, after 9/11.
“Trump’s faux tough-guy routine led to the lethal political divide on masks, which undermined our ability to beat the virus.”—Maureen Dowd,New York Times.
“It should concern us all that hospitalizations—indicators of severe illness—are rising in the pediatric population.”—USF epidemiologist Dr. Jason L. Salemi, who tracks COVID-19 hospitalization data, which show a spike in children’s cases where fewer people have been vaccinated.
“Anytime the attention is on Joe Biden, it’s good for Republicans, and anytime the attention is on Jan. 6, it’s bad for Republicans. The only hope Democrats have of keeping the House is to make Jan. 6 the issue of the campaign.”—Republican strategist John Freehery.
“Let’s be clear. With a Democratic president, a Democratic House and a Democratic Senate, Democrats have every tool they need to raise the debt limit. … Republicans will not facilitate another reckless, partisan taxing and spending spree.”—Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell.
“Near miraculous declines in the cost of renewal energy mean that we already have the technology needed to move away from fossil fuels fairly cheaply. … (But) at this point, climate denialism has a deathlike grip on the GOP.”—Paul Krugman, New York Times.
“Continuing to allow this giant bank with a broken culture to conduct business in its current form poses substantial risks to consumers and the financial system.”—Sen.Elizabeth Warren, in a letter to the Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell that underscores the need to break up Wells Fargo.
“Background checks are supported by Democrats, Republicans, gun owners and non-gun owners. The only place where they’re controversial is the Senate.”—John Feinblatt, president of Everytown for Gun Safety.
“Tampa Bay is at an inflection point. Now, more than ever, it’s imperative that St. Pete elect a partner in progress, a proven inclusive leader, and a person whose deep roots uniquely position him to take St. Pete into the next great chapter of their city.”—Mayor Jane Castor, in endorsing Ken Welch for mayor of St. Petersburg.