Ok Baker, I will reply DIRECTLY to you so there is no confusion as to what I may be addressing...
quote author=bakergeol
Well I guess I am in the minority here at TN. The majority of the responders here are conspiracy "buffs".
Baker, I'd hazard a guess you are NOT in the minority here at Tnet.
You are perhaps one of few OUTSPOKEN members choosing to participate in the thread.
(Part of the Silent Majority

)
Baker>>>
However, people here are not discussing the first part of my argument
"Extraordinary claims require extraordinary proof "
I do NOT consider it to be an extraordinary claim when someone declares government may have not disclosed the truth of a matter... or 'mispoke'.
I strongly suspect WE are not fully informed of what REALLY goes on around us for the basic reason of those gubment minions, and those who direct them, implementing even more control over our daily lives.
Simple example? Why would a shiny new radio equipped interceptor, piloted by one of our college degreed academy graduated finest, be set aside from crime fightin' citizen protecting duty to give a child a citation to appear before a clerk of the superior court to answer charges of misdemeanor infraction behavior by riding a bicycle in a two horse town?
Another example?
Enforcement $'s spent on infractions when a reputed 12 million invaders have crossed our border

??
I'll tell you my feeling!
It's done to exhibit control, to forcefully demand respect for authority, and instill that within a child.
To quote you further, Baker...
After it is not extraordinary or even a surprise that politicians will lie, cheat and steal just
like average low lives.
Of course our government lies.
Baker, I do NOT accept that.
No way, no how.
To be in public service is a position of honor.
Public servants should all be treated with a great deal of respect, not only because they must be held to the highest of standards, but also because their chosen vocation makes demands that many of us shall never face.
Baker>>>
After a U2 spy plane was shot down over Russia, Eisenhower came out and said.....
Yah, Ike wasn't much of a president. Neither was Grant.
Ike could have very well said, "I have no comment at this time."
Returning war heroes have rarely done well in elected office.
To use an example from the other side of the pond, the performance of Winston Churchill during WWII was nothing less than inspirational. He pulled an astounding accomplishment out of his hat.
Prior to WWII, his performance was lackluster, and he failed in politics after the war.
Baker>>>
So our government lies.
IMO, Baker, that is not worthy of a "So."
A liar should be run out of town on a rail.
Tar n' feather him!
Put an end to this behavior.
Baker>>>
Does this mean that mutant killer radioactive turtles exist? crop circles are from aliens?
And this is a textbook example of discrediting an opponent in discussion...
Employing a ludicrous accusation of lunacy.
Baker, even if you feel yourself to be in the minority at the moment, your opinion is very welcome.
Stand up straight, and proud.
Be an Army of One!
Back up your position with unequivocal facts and figures, as opposed to trying for the cheap shot to discredit.
In such fashion, your position may become accepted as your opinion is welcome.
Best,
Recovers Many Pull Tab Relics