"Their number is negligible and they are stupid."

[Kurt_and_Hunter]

Now it is true that I believe this country is following a dangerous trend when it permits too great a degree of centralization of governmental functions. I oppose this--in some instances the fight is a rather desperate one. But to attain any success it is quite clear that the Federal government cannot avoid or escape responsibilities which the mass of the people firmly believe should be undertaken by it. The political processes of our country are such that if a rule of reason is not applied in this effort, we will lose everything--even to a possible and drastic change in the Constitution. This is what I mean by my constant insistence upon "moderation" in government.

Should any political party attempt to abolish social security, unemployment insurance, and eliminate labor laws and farm programs, you would not hear of that party again in our political history. There is a tiny splinter group, of course, that believes you can do these things. Among them are H. L. Hunt (you possibly know his background), a few other Texas oil millionaires, and an occasional politician or business man from other areas. Their number is negligible and they are stupid.

Dwight D. Eisenhower
November 8, 1954

http://www.eisenhowermemorial.org/presidential-papers/first-term/documents/1147.cfm

[Hello_Kitty]

1. They're still stupid but, sadly, no longer negligible

That said, the people who actually want to abolish the safety net and do away with government are still in the minority.

[Kurt_and_Hunter]

2. The 1950s was the peak of union membership per capita

So yes, many things have changed along the way including the number and influence of the wing-nuts.

[Unsane]

4. gotta get efca passed

[vaberella]

3. Thankfully. n/t

[TheBigotBasher]

5. That is the new base of the Rethug Party.

It is the safety net they call socialism and these nuts have the GOP by the proverbials.

They just like big government to interfere with what people do in the bedroom.