David Frum's Blog, page 108

The Deficit's Taking Care of Itself

As we ponder whether or not the US government should pay its December debts, let's note that December 2012 saw the smallest federal deficit in five years: $260 million, practically a balanced budget.

David's Bookclub: 'Bullies'

Ben Shapiro's Bullies is less a book than a marketing campaign for the conservative rage movement.

Who's Killing the Shiites of Pakistan?

Well, isn't this charming. Pakistan, as you may know, has a terrible history of persecution of its Shiite minority. 2012 was the bloodiest year ever, more than 300 people murdered.

Rand Paul Swims in the Dead Sea

Rand Paul's recent Israel visit included a dip in the Dead Sea. Discouting the gross factor of swimming in that saline cesspool, there are some awesome images. (Insert joke about senators from Appalachia).Business Insider's Grace Wyler, who followed the Kentucky senator around the Holy Land, has moreof these wonderful photos.

What Would You Give Up for the Internet?

The Economist posted this fun bit of research in their article on international politics and the Internet. Who knew that fewer Brazilians and Chinese would be willing to give up fast food, as compared to the United States?

Some CEOs Are More Valuable Than Others

The Wall Street Journal today defends CEO pay as worth every penny.

Clarence Thomas Breaks His Vow of Silence

Not sure whether to applaud or cry. The last time Thomas spoke during oral arguments was 2006.

Glenn Beck Building Glenn Beck Inspired City/Theme Park

Glenn Beck recently unveiled his newest plan for America. Independence, USA would be a "city-theme park hybrid," which is seemingly part Randian and part Walt Disney's Disneyland. The "utopia" would consist of its own media company, businesses that teach through apprenticeship, and a nondenominational Church based on The Alamo, among other things. According to Beck's own website/news agency,

The Last Name on Schindler's List

The last person to owe his life to Oskar Schindler's famous list died last week in Fullerton, California. He was 83.

Not All Borders Are Created Equal

The Financial Timesdispatched a photographer to document Europe's relatively vanished borders. Since it's paywalled and the photos are by an FT photographer, that doesn't mean much if you aren't a subscriber. Therefore, I thought I'd take the idea and make it useful for you. Enjoy.