Alright, folks, buckle up because we're diving into the absurdity that is the South Carolina Legislature's latest session. This isn't just a recap; it's a revelation of how our so-called "representatives" have mastered the art of Legal Plunder, trampling on individual and economic freedoms, and expanding the monstrous apparatus of state government. Oh, and guess what? The party pulling these stunts isn't the Democrats, but the supposed champions of conservatism, the Republican Party.

Legal Plunder: Your Tax Dollars at Work (for Someone Else)

Let's talk about Legal Plunder – that charming practice where politicians snatch money from one group and hand it to another, all without consent. If private citizens did this, we'd call it theft and toss them in jail. Case in point: H.3811, which funnels taxpayer dollars into risky startup ventures. This is capitalism, not a charity drive. And then there's S.284, which lets local governments use your tax money to subsidize workforce housing. Last time I checked, the private sector was perfectly capable of handling housing where there's demand. But no, your tax dollars are being used to reward political cronies.

Trampling Individual & Economic Freedom

The right to property is the bedrock of liberty. But our legislators seem to think it's their job to infringe on that right. Take H.4364, regulating alcohol delivery and curbside pickup. Or the much-touted H.3594, Constitutional Carry. Sure, they claim it supports the Second Amendment, but it's riddled with restrictions, fines, and prison sentences. And don't get me started on H.4527/S.915, which creates a Governor's Health Czar. Remember Dr. Fauci's COVID debacles? Yeah, let’s repeat that on a state level. From occupational licensing for genetic counselors (S.241) to hiking insurance rates for businesses selling liquor, the hits just keep coming.

Expanding the Leviathan

Once upon a time, the Republican Party was about small government. Fast forward to today, and they're busy bloating the state's bureaucracy. H.5118, the South Carolina 10 Year Energy Transformation Act, is a classic example. S.915 and S.241 also make appearances here, pushing the boundaries of state control. And let's not forget the 2024-2025 budget proposals (H.5101 and g.5100), which inflate the government with an extra $31.1 million and 500 new employees. Our so-called conservatives are turning South Carolina into a bureaucratic nightmare.

Conclusion: Rethink Your Vote

So, next time you're at the polls, maybe think twice before you hit that "D" or "R" button. Both major parties have strayed far from the ideals of the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution. They no longer champion limited government or the protection of your unalienable rights. There's only one party still fighting for those values: the Libertarian Party.

Postscript: Dive Deeper

This summary barely scratches the surface of the bills churned out by the 2023-2024 SC Legislature. For a deeper dive, check out Jonathan Hill's Substack "Bad Bill Sheet," emails from Talbert Black Jr.'s Palmetto Liberty PAC, and weekly legislative summaries from the South Carolina Policy Council. And, of course, www.scstatehouse.gov has all the legislative nitty-gritty.

So there you have it, folks. The South Carolina Legislature's latest session, stripped down to its libertarian bones.

Steve Hoffman is a lifelong political activist for Liberty Ideals.   Currently serving as the Chairman of Legislative Affairs Committee and a lifetime member of the Libertarian Party.  He has also was the Republican Party Liberty Caucus Alternate Director and Vice Chairman.  He holds Masters Degrees in Aeronautical Engineering in Aeronautical Science and Business Administration from University of New Hampshire and Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University.  He retired as a Lead RAB/QSA Quality Management System Auditor.  He currently sits on the Advisory Board of Liberty Crack Media as a Founder.

Hailing from St. Louis, MO, Malus Dextra emerged in 2017 when guitarist Justin Ruesch (formerly of D-Railed/Brutal Harmony) joined forces with vocalist Wayne Allison (formerly of A Strand of Fate/Victims of Life). Their mission was to craft music that transcended the constraints of genre and subgenres. While deeply rooted in metal, their sound resonates with a diverse audience – from fans of Killswitch Engage and Slayer to Tom MacDonald and Adam Calhoun.

The duo entered Encapsulated Studios to produce their debut self-titled album, which was released on October 31, 2017. The album gained traction through tours in the Midwest and upper East Coast during 2018. Following this, Malus Dextra released their second full-length album, "The Gate," on October 31, 2020, which was supported by extensive Midwest tours.

In 2021, they released two simultaneous EPs: "Bangin Bionic Beats," a 6-track collection of reimagined tracks from their previous albums remixed by John McLucas of McLucas Studios (CA), and "A Somber Moment," a 6-track acoustic EP showcasing a softer side of the band, recorded at Encapsulated Studios with producer/engineer Gabe Usery.

The year 2022 marked the creation of their third full-length album, "III," their fifth studio release. The album was launched in parts, with "Part 1" released in November 2022 through WormHoleDeath Records. The lead single from the album, "Tomorrow," debuted on March 25, 2022, followed by the second single "Pit" later that year.

As of May 2024, Malus Dextra is gearing up for the release of "Malus Dextra III Part-2," with the first single "Feed the Beast" set to drop on Friday, June 14, 2024.

Malus Dextra’s music often delves into themes of personal and societal struggle, resilience, and defiance. Their lyrics, rich with imagery and emotion, challenge the status quo and inspire listeners to fight for personal freedom and authenticity. Tracks like "Feed the Beast" capture this spirit with lines like:

"Feed the beast / A worthy sacrifice / A living breathing expendable Christ / Tow the lines to sell the souls of them / Pay your pipers their flesh is your gold."

Their sound is a powerful blend of aggression and melody, creating a cathartic experience for their audience. With influences ranging from the raw energy of Slayer to the socio-political commentary of Tom MacDonald, Malus Dextra stands as a testament to the power of music to inspire change and forge connections.

In a world where conformity often overshadows individuality, Malus Dextra’s message is clear: "We must determine our own fate." Their journey is far from over, and as they continue to create and evolve, their music will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on all who listen.

Liberty Crack Radio will be featuring "Feed the Beast" on the release date this Friday and throughout the weekend!

Salvador Dalí, one of the most enigmatic and influential artists of the 20th century, is renowned for his surrealist masterpieces that delve deep into the unconscious mind. While his work is often celebrated for its dream-like quality and meticulous detail, Dalí's political ideology also played a significant role in shaping his art. His political views evolved throughout his life, influenced by the turbulent times and places he lived, leaving an indelible mark on his creative output.

Early Life and Initial Political Leanings

Born in 1904 in Figueres, Spain, Dalí's early years were marked by the political instability of early 20th-century Europe. His formative years were spent in a Spain grappling with the decline of the monarchy, the rise of republicanism, and the chaos of World War I. Initially, Dalí exhibited leftist sympathies, which was common among many young artists and intellectuals of his time. He was influenced by the avant-garde movements in Barcelona, particularly the anarchist and communist sentiments that were gaining traction.

Surrealism and Political Ambiguity

Dalí's affiliation with the Surrealist movement in the late 1920s and early 1930s marked a crucial period in his political evolution. The Surrealists, led by André Breton, were heavily influenced by Marxist ideas and aimed to merge art with revolutionary politics. Dalí, however, often clashed with Breton and other Surrealists over political issues. Despite initially embracing some of their ideas, Dalí's apolitical stance and growing fascination with individualism set him apart.

One of the most notable works from this period is "The Persistence of Memory" (1931), which, while not overtly political, can be seen as a reflection of the anxieties and uncertainties of the time. The melting clocks and surreal landscape evoke a sense of distorted reality, mirroring the instability and fluidity of political ideologies during the interwar period.

Shift to Conservatism and Francoist Sympathies

Dalí's political views took a decisive turn during the Spanish Civil War (1936-1939). Unlike many of his contemporaries who supported the Republican cause, Dalí expressed a complex and often contradictory stance. He did not publicly endorse either side, which led to his expulsion from the Surrealist group in 1934. Over time, Dalí developed sympathies for Francisco Franco's nationalist regime, a stance that alienated many former colleagues and friends.

His painting "The Enigma of Hitler" (1939) illustrates his fascination with the fascist leaders of the time. The work depicts a telephone receiver and disjointed objects against a bleak landscape, suggesting a communication breakdown and the pervasive dread of looming war. This painting reflects Dalí's ambiguous and controversial views towards authoritarian figures.

Post-War Period and Catholicism

After World War II, Dalí's political ideology shifted towards a more conservative and traditional stance. He embraced Catholicism and became a vocal supporter of Francoist Spain. This period saw Dalí creating works that celebrated religious themes and Spanish heritage, blending his surrealist style with classical influences.

One of his major works from this era, "Christ of Saint John of the Cross" (1951), exemplifies this shift. The painting portrays Christ on the cross from an unusual, aerial perspective, combining religious reverence with Dalí's unique surrealist vision. This work signifies his alignment with conservative and religious values, in stark contrast to his earlier, more revolutionary inclinations.

Later Years and Legacy

In his later years, Dalí's political views became less prominent in his public persona, though his support for Franco and his Catholic faith remained. His later works continued to explore themes of science, religion, and the human psyche, often reflecting his ongoing fascination with the boundaries of reality and perception.

Salvador Dalí's political ideology, while complex and often contradictory, undeniably influenced his art. From the anarchic spirit of his early years to the conservative and religious themes of his later works, Dalí's political journey is reflected in the evolution of his artistic style and subject matter. His ability to merge his ideological shifts with his unique vision helped cement his legacy as a master of surrealism and a provocative figure in 20th-century art.