[Steven Lyle Jordan]

Originally Posted by Ralph Sir Edward

But - serious question - why does a secessionist mindset in Texas bother you?

Seriously? It doesn't... not a bit. If you still want to secede... if you still believe that being associated with the USA has done absolutely nothing for Texas, and never will... then secede already, and be done with it.

Originally Posted by Ralph Sir Edward

So Steve, what has the US done for Texas in the last 40 years? And why do you think that the US is done using Texas?

Well, let's see: Selling oil in the US has brought Texas a few bucks. Hosting major components of our space program has brought Texas high-tech business, prestige, and a general impression of having a few more brain cells than many states, which has in turn provided further improvement to Texas' industry and economy. Without it, Texas would probably be just another struggling rust belt state, with a heavily industrial infrastructure that could no longer compete with other countries... and the day we no longer depend on oil and natural gas would be pretty much the end of Texas' economy.

So, yeah, I'd say the US has done a few things for Texas... more than it has for many of its other states.

And as far as "using" Texas: Ask those Texas oil barons if they're done using us to line their pockets, while we pollute the air with the inefficient vehicles they've "encouraged" automakers to sell in our country. I'd say Texas has used the rest of the country to its advantage, and done a fine job of it, thank you very (cough!) much.

So, to reiterate: If you want to give your high-tech industry back, and stop selling oil to us, my response is: Yes, please. What's taken you so long?