Accusations of "intruding politics" and "racism" on the board

[TWFAUST at aol.com]

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I have received a number of off-board comments on the following exchange.
These accuse me of racist tendencies and of intruding politics into an auto
board. I am surprised at this response from what I had thought was a
thoughtful group.

       The relevant portions of the exchange are set forth below:

A lister, other than myself, distressed with the regulatory scheme in
Massachusetts referred to "the Peoples Republic of Massachusetts"

Another lister responded by saying "1. The Peoples Republic of Massachusetts
just elected a Republican governor. We've had Republican governors straight
since the 1980s.  So long ago now I forget the exact date."

I responded by saying "A heartening sign to be sure. Unfortunately,
Massachusetts'
 constitution provides for a weak executive and the legislature is more than
 85% Democratic. Those of us of "wealth" who own Audis are under the gun. I
 suppose that people are voting with their feet. The last census shows that
Massachusetts lost 10% of its white population since 1990.
  Is it obvious that my 13th chromosome is shaped like an elephant?"

For this, I am criticized for making political commentary on the Audi board
and making racist commentary similar to Trent Lott.

       It would seem to me that when the government chooses to regulate
modifications to a mid 80's automobile, politics has intruded itself into
automotive discussion. Regardless of the goal, I think that expenditure of
other than minimal governmental effort or any part of the public treasure on
such regulation is wasteful of resources. It also intrudes politics into our
hobby, which I am sure includes modification our vehicles. I have not
forgotten that a large portion of the discussion of this matter included
recommendations for illegal activity by seeking registration in an other
state. I notice that no one was accused of "criminalism".

       "The last census shows that Massachusetts lost 10% of its white
population since 1990." It is a sad state of affairs when any recognition of
ethnic/racial distinction is "racist". I think that it is indisputable that
"white people" are the "traditional population" of Massachusetts. I am not a
student of population drift, but it would seem to me that when 10% of a
states "traditional population" chooses to leave with a 10 year period, some
statement of dissatisfaction is being made. I will leave further analysis to
others.
       "Is it obvious that my 13th chromosome is shaped like an elephant?"  A
failed attempt at humor.
        At end, let me say this. I have lived in Massachusetts most of my
life. In order to make my living, and simply lead my life, I am required to
hold 14 different licenses from the state. It does make me wonder.
Tom Faust