Blacklash: How Obama and the Left Are Driving Americans to the Government Plantation

by Deneen Borelli

This country is at a crossroads. We can either reverse direction or nosedive into a cycle of dependency that is turning America into a welfare nation—a “government plantation” where the underclass are doomed to 21st-century servitude. Now, Deneen Borelli, one of the most visible and outspoken black conservatives in the country, is fighting back—taking action, not just talking—and speaking up for those who can’t or are too afraid to do so. Borelli’s argument is a solid the problem begins with President Barack Obama, whose policy overreach has frozen racial tensions in this country when he should have been thawing them. The Left, having introduced the race card to defend Obama from the massive unpopularity of his policies, has turned a blind eye to the leadership failures that have spread down through black career politicians—traitors to minority success—who are causing a cycle of oppression in specifically Charles Rangel, Al Sharpton, and Jesse Jackson, each of whom has enriched himself at the expense of his community. Borelli also challenges the ninety-five percent of the black Americans who voted for Obama without caring about or vetting his dangerous politics. Borelli doesn’t stop there. She speaks out against the elites and crony capitalists who drive expensive government policies such as needless green initiatives and ObamaCare. She exposes government regulation and the NAACP as nothing more than a liberal front group. She points out each grave flaw in the current administration, big government, unions, and special-interest groups. She demands that new black leaders abandon the false rhetoric and inexcusable lies of so-called progressive politics. She asks the questions that people of all colors are afraid to ask, and delivers the honest, unyielding, and controversial answers that have made her the favorite of the left-wing firing squad. Today, with taking a stand against Obama, comes the fear of being called a racist. There is no fear in Deneen Borelli. Her outspoken voice gives everyone the courage and ammunition needed to stand up against destructive progressive tyrants. She is a brave critic, bold and proactive—not reactive. Hers is a story a lot of people don’t want to hear—no matter how firmly they believe it to be true. Deneen Borelli is here to ignite a fire in independent-minded Americans. Blacklash is the fuse. *** “I’m conservative. I believe in the power of the individual. I’m a freethinker, and I love my country. Yes, I’m also black, but that fact has nothing to do with my belief in limited government. I don’t like President Barack Obama’s progressive policies and his administration’s spending habits. But some people apparently think that my economic concerns shouldn’t supersede my racial allegiance. “Nobody wants to be told they’re racist simply because they are too conservative to buy into Obama’s policies. People are too nervous to speak out, so I’m speaking out for them. We need change. We really do. We just can’t afford the kind that Obama and the Washington elites are currently advocating.”  —Deneen Borelli

Genres: Politics, Nonfiction, Cultural

306 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 7, 2012

Reviews

[Mike (the Paladin) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reviewed 2013 updated April 2016

I am politically what's called "conservative". I think I may be closer to Libertarian actually. I believe in freedom for all people and in equal rights for all people.

However if you ask many...and possibly most people of the political left what a conservative believes you won't get that answer.

Personally I think our current president is one of the two worst presidents we've had in living memory. That has to do with his policies and the view he has for the country. Where he's leading the country. I remember the night he was first elected. I specifically remember a news person interviewing Janeane Garofalo, a comic. She frankly expressed the opinion that anyone who disagreed with the president could only have one reason, his race.

I have dealt with that attitude constantly. Ideas can't be discussed, disagreement is "always" assumed to be about race. Conservatives constantly deal with this attitude. There is an assumption that all conservatives are somehow racist and evil. However as difficult as it is for me, black conservatives have it a thousand times worse.

I will not make Ms. Borelli's argument for her. Please see if you can scrape up an open mind and read the book. In this country individuality was once the rule and thinking for one's self was the way to go. In "America" we used to say "I may disagree with what you say but I'll defend to the death your right to say it". There is now a movement to silence half the population and indoctrinate all who dare to think for themselves into giving up that particular "vice" (thinking).

As I said...please, read the book. See how a person gets treated by the "defenders of civil rights" if they don't walk in lockstep.

[Lillie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm a fan of Deneen Borelli from seeing her on cable news shows. She is a strong, intelligent black conservative woman with common-sense ideas about how the actions of the black leadership establishment and government entitlement programs actually work against the benefit of African-Americans and low-income individuals. Instead of giving a hand-up, these leaders and government call for a handout, indoctrinating those in need into believing that they are not capable of being independent and improving their own lives. Our country would be in much better shape if individuals were respected and given the opportunities to make their own way rather than being held down by programs that keep them locked into the cycle of poverty.

[Melanee · Rating 1 out of 5]

Whah! Whah! Whah! I did it so why can't everybody else? That's the message this book tries to sell and it's not only an egotistical but also dangerous way of thinking. How do I know? Cause I used to think that way too. However, having spent time with others who were not as fortunate as myself and Mrs. Borelli,I discovered that it's going to take a whole lot more than preaching "pick your self up by your bootstraps and get your life in order!" to make an impact on changing the dynamics of poverty in this nation.

And as a side note. She spends a great deal of the book voicing her disgust at being ostracized because she's black and decided not to vote for the President just because he is too. Just as much as she loathes being considered a race traitor I am even more repulsed by the argument that the only reason black people voted for President Obama was because he's black. That is an INSULT to not only him but to me as a black person! I voted for him because he was CLEARLY the best candidate. Him being black just made it icing on the cake. I was humbled enough to change my former way of thinking and I cringe now whenever I hear this idealogy! That on top of it not being written very well just made it an absolute waste of time...

Dear Mrs. Borelli, I used to be you which is why I know you need to be someone else!

[Jeanette · Rating 4 out of 5]

Deneen Borelli is one of the bravest women imaginable in this climate of 2013-14. Truth telling and absolutely candid in her language and regarding every phase of her life- what a spine. And I cannot say she is wrong in any chapter. I would have given it 5 stars but for the fact it was a short book. Her insight is accurate to exactly what we have seen within Chicago re a permanent and ever growing set of entitlements and how those handouts engender a near fatal dependency, crime, and underground economy. I did not know of her physical abilities when young for racing and track, nor her working class ethic that included a "work as you go" and do it piecemeal" college experience, just as I did. Her attack on the current methods and status quo to looking backwards instead of forward by African-American leadership is the crux. But her chapters on giving away other peoples' money and the real Green Liberal Lies of who pays for energy as their percentage of income? Nailed it.

[Mark Will · Rating 4 out of 5]

After seeing the author speak on Hannity, I decided to purchase the book. Found it to be a well-rounded presentation showing point-by-point why Obama is not good for America. Mrs. Borelli also seems to aim her arguments at those in the black community that have been blindly following their Democrat masters for far too long. Far from being just critical of the current problems, she also offers solutions that would address many issues in a smaller government and more liberty centered way. I was inspired by her obvious belief that we Americans can fix this country and set it back on a course that allows every American the opportunity to succeed. Looking forward to more from Deneen Borelli.

[Chris Stump · Rating 4 out of 5]

Borelli brings up some very interesting and pertinent issues. However, she immediately started the book in a very reactive way-citing the unfair criticism she receives as a black conservative. I thought this was distracting and almost enough for me to pull away from the book. However, I read the whole thing. Despite the sprinkling of conservative talking points, a little bit of narcissism, and screeding, I'd say this is an insightful book to read and one to make you even angrier towards the government.

[Fredrick Danysh · Rating 3 out of 5]

A female black conservative discusses how black liberals such as President Obama, Jesse Jackson, and Al Sharpton have grown rich by their efforts to convince black Americans to adopt the mentality that they are victims of repression. She cites examples of actions by these three men as well as white liberals. This is a thoughtful read for all Americans regardless of ethnicity. Read both sides of the Liberal vs Conservative issues and make an informed judgement.

[Dave Hoff · Rating 5 out of 5]

Deneen is a very brave lady. If Obama reads her book there is not an insurance co. in the world that would issue her a life policy An easy, must read, covering a host of problems the Left is causing. Her Conclusion chapter sums up her life and trials.

[Natalie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thought the book was a long overdue analysis of the misguided thinking of the left. Thankfully, Ms. Borelli has the guts and integrity to put down on paper what is woefully politically correct, but unbelievably accurate. I wish more people were reading it, but unfortunately, it's somewhat hard to find (unless you're using Amazon). (Hmmmm, is this one of the latest intimidation schemes coming from our current "transparent" administration?) She breaks down the history of current thinking, and factually, she is right on. I highly recommend reading this book. I wish this could be mandatory in our schools, but unfortunately, it undermines the whole culture that keeps poor performing public schools alive and well. When you consider that a single mom is better off earning $29,000 with net income and government benefits worth $57,327 than earning $69,000 with net income and benefits worth $57,045 (this is cited from a study from the Dept. of Public Welfare), it's easy to figure out that there is no incentive whatsoever for anyone to depend on their own talents and abilities to succeed in this world. When we become a truly colorblind society, end affirmative action and this pathetic tracking of demographic hiring, we all become stronger. If you angrily disagree, I hope you're enjoying your "Obamaphone".

[Shannon · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great book! There are times it felt like she was saying the same thing over and over, and if you have heard it all before then it can be redundant. BUT, all her points are valid criticism of Obama and his crew. She makes awesome arguments for the black community and what their role should be and what to be focused on. It's the kind of rhetoric a white person would be called racist for saying (or writing). To be honest, I love to hear what black conservatives have to say. They deserve to be heard! Mrs. Borelli took a lot of heat from the black community to write this. She deserves to be heard.

[Chanelle Berlin]

Saw this woman on FOX News today. Now I'm gonna read her book when it comes out because I'm into masochism.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Composed thoughtfully, & refreshingly free of true bashing. Bonus: her references are multi-source, & show heavy research.

[REO Bookwagon · Rating 1 out of 5]

You can find other better, well-written books on race and fiscal conservatism.

[Andrew · Rating 3 out of 5]

Borelli's "Blacklash" is a quick read. I agree with just about everything she says in the book. However, I didn't find really much in the way of new ideas. Borelli provides a compelling argument against liberalism and progressivism which, again, I agree with. But all the ideas are well worn in conservative circles. This book is a primer for the conservative argument, but if you are a thinker and a reader, you will have heard all these ideas before. Overall, though, Borelli's book is good, but may be more beneficial for those that disagree with her.

[Cathy · Rating 3 out of 5]

I saw Deneen Borrelli on a Hannity live panel show and I was impressed with her. That is how I learned about her book. I enjoyed the read, but it is similar to all the political pundit books. I am tired of both sides just attacking the other. The analogy of the "government plantation" is a good one, but how are black conservatives going to reach out and connect with urban youth who really truly need to heed their message?

[Naftoli · Rating 5 out of 5]

Deneen provides the reader some much needed info on politics within the black community (the race baiters Jesse Jackson & Al Sharton) that will shock you & cast a new light on what you see on the nightly news.

She also treats the reader to anecdotal stories from her personal life, political analysis, and inspirational tidbits.

This book is an easy-to-read yet important and thus needs to be promoted by word of mouth. I'll certainly do my part!

[Michael K. · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent book on how the left leans toward a racist rant concerning almost anything, just to take the focus off of the argument to demean the character of others. Deneen Borelli speaks on many subjects with respect to politics and the political realm. Articulate and well written with numerous citations for her allegations, many of which I recall from the news. Well worth the time to read in order to grasp hold of the background on this style af argumentation from the left.

[Kimberly · Rating 3 out of 5]

I should have a shelf marked "skimmed." :-)
This is really excellent. I think for summer reading, though, it left a bit to be desired for me. She is smart and has ideas -- not just criticisms. I am so disheartened by the political situation that I couldn't truly bear to immerse myself in all her knowledge about how bad it really is. Worth reading, to be sure.

[Ger · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great point in time book by a courageous black author who is standing up against the power brokers who are taking this country down the wrong road. Not the best writer and she jumps around a bit but certainly worth the read.

[Dave Carter · Rating 4 out of 5]

Forget Al Sharpton. Forget Jesse Jacksone. Deneen tells the story from a perspective with truth rather than from a hate-mongering, scheming and divisive perspective. Even if you are not conservative, this book will help you appreciate what she deals with on an almost daily basis.

[Jodi · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good book. Nothing a conservative didn't already know. I believe this book was directed more towards awakening the less informed voter or those who may be in-the-fence, and even more so towards the black voter.

[Mary Ann · Rating 3 out of 5]

I agree with much of what Mrs Borelli writes. She does such a thorough job of defending her thoughts with facts & examples that I did a bit of skimming when her information was familiar. The last chapter was the best.

[Ang · Rating 4 out of 5]

wish I could do 1/2 stars. I liked it more than 3 stars. It just seemed longish to me.
Really enjoyed this book and author.

[John · Rating 4 out of 5]

I saw, I read, it made me think, mission accomplished.

[Lisa Tangen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Deneen does a fantastic job of framing the issues - a brave and smart woman

[Johnnie · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was a good book. I found out things I didn't know about Al Sharpton and Jesse Jackson. Deneen Borelli is a breath of fresh air in the political world.

[Christine · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great book, written before Obama held office for his second term, and every word rings true and feels as if it written today. Same issues, very enlightening. Kudos for Deneen on her marathon.

[Carolyn Kost · Rating 3 out of 5]

Deneen Borelli of FreedomWorks believes in personal responsibility. At the very least we expect the government to protect us as part of the social contract, but Borelli recounts her horrific experience with domestic violence and stalking and concludes she had to attend to the matter on her own; the government was not going to be able to protect her. Great example, memorable and striking.

Borelli believes that Obama was an abomination and shares Dinesh D'Souza's estimation of Obama as "driven solely by an 'anti-colonialist' and 'inherited rage' against the West" to equalize the USA with the rest of the world (62). Naturally, the author dispenses the expected Black Tea Party conservative line in this volume, which will irritate anyone on the left and will have the right nodding their heads in agreement. To wit:

The left and the media painted as racist any criticism of either Obama or big spending. "...it's easier for the left to play the race card than address the public's legitimate concerns, but what the left and the media are doing is damaging and dangerous." It's very much like crying wolf. If "everything is racist, then nothing is" (217).

"Welfare keeps the black community down. It has unintended consequences that hurt black families and keep them in poverty. Instead of helping the people the way it's meant to, it forces them to stay on what's turned into the 'government plantation'" (76). It allows the elites to control them. "Welfare, wage controls, and entitlement programs don't facilitate change...We are the makers of our own destiny. We need to control our lives to move forward" (83).

Borelli cites the shocking and dismaying statistics about black families: 77% of black children are born to single mothers; compare with 17% Asians and 29% Caucasians, and how that contributes to poverty and one-third of the black population is on welfare. Further, "Blacks make up 12% of the population, but 33% of the welfare population" (78). This is bleak stuff. Moreover, "Tragically, the poverty rate for blacks rose from 25% in 2009 to 27% in 2010." So much for Obama helping blacks.

Further, if one blames racism for everything, "young black men and women" will expect to "never get a fair shake and that white people whom they have never met dislike them" (218). Most importantly, this will incite blacks in particular to regard white people as their enemy. This serves no one.

This book is no longer timely but was a bracing read nonetheless.

[Sharon Hendrickson · Rating 5 out of 5]

We, as readers, will give high or low ratings to our recently read book for a variety of reasons. I not only learned a lot (more than I expected, for sure) from reading this book, I gained a whole new perspective about the racial parameters that have been covertly set around political conservatism vs. liberalism. I simply thought that there’s the right and the left, as well as a few odd pegs, like myself, who don’t want to be hammered into any political pegboard.
But No! Did you know that if you’re black, or any non Caucasian person, that you are expected by “your people” to vote Democrat; liberal Democrat? And if you DON’T march the party-line there’s certain consequences for you...... I also learned that the author is a particularly courageous woman in a volatile time for conservative Americans - when there should NOT be any issue at all regarding your own societal views. They’re just your views. Right? Wrong.
Read this book by Deneen Borelli for some eye-opening and valuable learning about the secret liberal politics around ethnicities in America.

[Bob Spears · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good to a point. This was written before Obama’s second term. The Tea Party was trying to restore America and get Obama, Jesse Jackson, Sharpton, Waters, out of office. It didn’t work and we are in worse shape now.