many models in Europe that we could copy, as well as Canada.

But, well, you know, we can't be like them "furiners and their soshulism!"

Many
Are
Getting
Arrested

political discussions in europe are largely about actual policy. of course there's party and personalities there as well but you can have good honest discussions with random people about the substance of governance.

here, it's gone completely tribal. if they're on the right, they just shout buzzwords and look for a response to see if you're in the blue tribe or the red tribe and if you're in the other tribe, it's just a shouting match of more buzzwords and parroted talking points.

their definition of "socialism" is basically anything democrats proposal, any tax increase no matter how tiny, or any government spending program that doesn't involve imprisoning, deporting, or killing people. and of course, labeling something as socialism instantly ends the debate and they declare victory.

it's impossible to have a discussion with these people on the merits. might as well just watch foxnews and bash your head against a wall.

into thinking that healthcare, education, retirement is a privilege, not a right.

Yes, most have national healthcare, but they pay higher taxes.
For years, more Americans owned their own homes while most Europeans had to rent. Whether this is still true, I don't know...I know gasoline is very expensive in the UK.

And curtail my driving.

But seeing a doctor when I am sick, having a retirement I can live on,
and the college education of my children, are all more important to me.

AND living in a safe country where mentally ill people cannot buy machine guns.

we all have our own priorities -- What is "important" to you may not be the same for everyone.

And seeing a doctor so they could live, and not living in the street when they are old. And their children having a better life.

People who chose driving over these things are foolish.
But that is what the American people have done.

and if that's the case, they should be pursuing that goal...Thanks for sharing.

were it not so tragic, is the piss poor response shown by Belgium to the horrific Paris terror attacks committed by their citizens. They were tipped off numerous times, but were so unconcerned, their cops refused to pursue leads past 9:00 at night.