http://www.southernstudies.org/2014/11/institute-index-tallying-up-returns-on-corporation.html
"A report released this week by the Sunlight Foundation calculated what 200 of America's most politically active corporations invested in federal lobbying and campaign contributions over six years -- and the value of what they got in return: $760 in federal support and contracts for every $1 spent."
Saturday, November 29, 2014
How Wal-Mart stole Christmas — and hijacked American politics
How Wal-Mart stole Christmas — and hijacked American politics
"Wal-Mart in particular is known for its status as a corporate-welfare queen; one study estimates that one 300-person Supercenter costs taxpayers $904,542 to $1,744,590. Another estimates that Wal-Mart and the Walton family pull in $7.8 billion a year in tax breaks and subsidies. Meanwhile, a brand-new report from Americans for Tax Fairness finds that Wal-Mart also avoids taxes on more than $21 billion in offshore profits. In its most recent annual report, Wal-Mart openly admits that changes to government food stamp programs may hurt its financial performance. Hundreds of thousands of Wal-Mart workers make near-poverty wages."
"Wal-Mart in particular is known for its status as a corporate-welfare queen; one study estimates that one 300-person Supercenter costs taxpayers $904,542 to $1,744,590. Another estimates that Wal-Mart and the Walton family pull in $7.8 billion a year in tax breaks and subsidies. Meanwhile, a brand-new report from Americans for Tax Fairness finds that Wal-Mart also avoids taxes on more than $21 billion in offshore profits. In its most recent annual report, Wal-Mart openly admits that changes to government food stamp programs may hurt its financial performance. Hundreds of thousands of Wal-Mart workers make near-poverty wages."
Alan Grayson Warns Corporate Republicans A New Political Movement Is Coming To Take Them Down
http://www.politicususa.com/2014/11/29/alan-grayson-warns-corporate-republicans-political-movement-coming.html
"When the people who have been held down do stand up, it is going to be Republicans and the Koch pro-corporate agenda that will feel their wrath."
"When the people who have been held down do stand up, it is going to be Republicans and the Koch pro-corporate agenda that will feel their wrath."
This week in the war on workers: San Francisco's Retail Worker Bill of Rights should be a model
http://www.dailykos.com/story/2014/11/29/1347646/-This-week-in-the-war-on-workers-San-Francisco-s-Retail-Worker-Bill-of-Rights-should-be-a-model
"San Francisco has passed a Retail Workers Bill of Rights that will bring much-needed changes to retail labor practices"
"San Francisco has passed a Retail Workers Bill of Rights that will bring much-needed changes to retail labor practices"
Fox Pundits Opine Over The 'War On Walmart' In The Wake Of Black Friday Protests
Fox Pundits Opine Over The 'War On Walmart' In The Wake Of Black Friday Protests
"The yappers on Fox use the Black Friday Walmart protests as another excuse to participate in one of their favorite activities -- union bashing, and making excuses for Walmart's poverty wages."
"The yappers on Fox use the Black Friday Walmart protests as another excuse to participate in one of their favorite activities -- union bashing, and making excuses for Walmart's poverty wages."
Privateers Make a Water Grab
http://www.truth-out.org/news/item/27692-privateers-make-a-water-grab
"This well documented report reads like a crime novel. For example, "In East Cleveland, Ohio, a consultant bribed the former mayor's office in order to secure a no-bid contract for CH2M HILL to run the city's water system. The contract eventually paid out $3.9 million to the corporation for services that the city had been providing for less than half of that amount. The former mayor and the consultant have been convicted of racketeering, and the city sued the corporation for $14 million for breach of contract."
This report on global water privatization shows why infrastructure privatization is not just an important topic, but, perhaps, the most important issue of our time."
"This well documented report reads like a crime novel. For example, "In East Cleveland, Ohio, a consultant bribed the former mayor's office in order to secure a no-bid contract for CH2M HILL to run the city's water system. The contract eventually paid out $3.9 million to the corporation for services that the city had been providing for less than half of that amount. The former mayor and the consultant have been convicted of racketeering, and the city sued the corporation for $14 million for breach of contract."
This report on global water privatization shows why infrastructure privatization is not just an important topic, but, perhaps, the most important issue of our time."
Tuesday, November 25, 2014
Congress Poised To Eliminate Key Tax Breaks For Middle Class, Provide Permanent Tax Breaks For Corporations
http://thinkprogress.org/economy/2014/11/25/3596971/congress-to-end-tax-breaks-for-middle-class-provide-permanent-relief-to-large-corporations/
"Under the terms of the $444 billion agreement, lawmakers would phase out all tax breaks for clean energy and wind energy but would maintain fossil fuel subsidies."
"Under the terms of the $444 billion agreement, lawmakers would phase out all tax breaks for clean energy and wind energy but would maintain fossil fuel subsidies."
PERRspectives: Paul Ryan's Triple Scam on Tax Reform
PERRspectives: Paul Ryan's Triple Scam on Tax Reform
"His plans to privatize Social Security, shelved due to their consistent unpopularity, will be back on the front burner. Ryan's ploy to ration Medicare by replacing the guaranteed system of government insurance for the elderly with an under-funded voucher scheme that will dramatically shift healthcare costs to seniors will return as well. Despite having repeatedly warned America about "takers" and lazy men "in our inner cities" who are turning "the safety net into a hammock," Chairman Ryan is recasting himself as an anti-poverty crusader. And above all, Paul Ryan wants to use his move from the Budget to the Ways and Means Committee to advance his dream of tax reform that "lowers rates and broadens the base."
But to realize his dream, Congressman Paul Ryan is perpetrating the greatest public policy con game since Arthur Laffer first sketched his laughable curve. Faced with the inescapable historical truth that tax cuts don't pay for themselves but instead have only increased the national debt and income inequality, Ryan turned to a three-part fraud to deceive the American press and the American people. Call it Paul Ryan's triple scam"
"His plans to privatize Social Security, shelved due to their consistent unpopularity, will be back on the front burner. Ryan's ploy to ration Medicare by replacing the guaranteed system of government insurance for the elderly with an under-funded voucher scheme that will dramatically shift healthcare costs to seniors will return as well. Despite having repeatedly warned America about "takers" and lazy men "in our inner cities" who are turning "the safety net into a hammock," Chairman Ryan is recasting himself as an anti-poverty crusader. And above all, Paul Ryan wants to use his move from the Budget to the Ways and Means Committee to advance his dream of tax reform that "lowers rates and broadens the base."
But to realize his dream, Congressman Paul Ryan is perpetrating the greatest public policy con game since Arthur Laffer first sketched his laughable curve. Faced with the inescapable historical truth that tax cuts don't pay for themselves but instead have only increased the national debt and income inequality, Ryan turned to a three-part fraud to deceive the American press and the American people. Call it Paul Ryan's triple scam"
'Let them eat cake': The GOP and its attacks on the middle class
http://www.dailykos.com/story/2014/11/23/1345709/--Let-them-eat-cake-The-GOP-and-its-attacks-on-the-middle-class
"We have had our own "Let them eat cake" moments in America. During the gilded age Cornelius Vanderbilt stated, "What do I care about the law? Ain’t I got the power?" His son, William Vanderbilt, once said, "The public be damned!" when he heard of criticism of his railroad monopoly. This is the same man who was poorly treated by his father until he cheated the Army on the price of hay during the Civil War. What a fine family they were.
Jay Gould, another robber baron, once said about striking railroad workers, "I can hire one half of the working class to kill the other half." Republicans of today are obvious disciples of Mr. Gould. Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker and his "divide and conquer" statements, Mitt Romney with his comments about the 47 percent being dependent on government, Rep. Paul Ryan blaming poverty on lazy inner city men, New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie being tired of minimum wage talk, and Wisconsin Sen. Ron Johnson stating, "I think it’s unrealistic, for public-sector employees to believe that they are immune from modifications to their pay and benefit packages."
These men, doing the work of the robber barons of today—the Koch brothers being the most well know of them—are out of touch with the American middle class."
"We have had our own "Let them eat cake" moments in America. During the gilded age Cornelius Vanderbilt stated, "What do I care about the law? Ain’t I got the power?" His son, William Vanderbilt, once said, "The public be damned!" when he heard of criticism of his railroad monopoly. This is the same man who was poorly treated by his father until he cheated the Army on the price of hay during the Civil War. What a fine family they were.
Jay Gould, another robber baron, once said about striking railroad workers, "I can hire one half of the working class to kill the other half." Republicans of today are obvious disciples of Mr. Gould. Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker and his "divide and conquer" statements, Mitt Romney with his comments about the 47 percent being dependent on government, Rep. Paul Ryan blaming poverty on lazy inner city men, New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie being tired of minimum wage talk, and Wisconsin Sen. Ron Johnson stating, "I think it’s unrealistic, for public-sector employees to believe that they are immune from modifications to their pay and benefit packages."
These men, doing the work of the robber barons of today—the Koch brothers being the most well know of them—are out of touch with the American middle class."
Monday, November 24, 2014
Paul Ryan's Flabbergasting Hypocrisy
http://www.alternet.org/news-amp-politics/paul-ryans-flabbergasting-hypocrisy
"Aware no doubt of how President Obama’s announcement this week on immigration reform would dominate both the media and the public’s attention, Republicans in the House, led by Rep. Paul Ryan, have been working to make sure the next head of the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) — which acts as Congress’s honest broker when it comes to scoring fiscal policy — is not a nonpartisan technocrat, as has usually been the case, but rather a loyal member of the conservative movement."
"Aware no doubt of how President Obama’s announcement this week on immigration reform would dominate both the media and the public’s attention, Republicans in the House, led by Rep. Paul Ryan, have been working to make sure the next head of the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) — which acts as Congress’s honest broker when it comes to scoring fiscal policy — is not a nonpartisan technocrat, as has usually been the case, but rather a loyal member of the conservative movement."
Seven Candidates for Corporate Rip-Off of the Year
Seven Candidates for Corporate Rip-Off of the Year
"2. Paying Their Employees With Our Tax Money
Walmart made $19 billion in U.S. profits last year, and the four Walton siblings together made about $29 billion from their personal investments. That's about $33,000 per U.S. employee in profits and family stock gains. Yet they pay their 1.4 million American employees so little that the average Walmart worker depends on about $4,000 per year in taxpayer assistance, for food stamps and other safety net programs."
"2. Paying Their Employees With Our Tax Money
Walmart made $19 billion in U.S. profits last year, and the four Walton siblings together made about $29 billion from their personal investments. That's about $33,000 per U.S. employee in profits and family stock gains. Yet they pay their 1.4 million American employees so little that the average Walmart worker depends on about $4,000 per year in taxpayer assistance, for food stamps and other safety net programs."
Saturday, November 22, 2014
Where To Shop To Support Workers This Black Friday
http://thinkprogress.org/economy/2014/11/21/3595568/thanksgiving-guide/
"While 12 brands have decided to open their doors on Thanksgiving Day, requiring millions of workers to miss out on time with friends and family, 18 others have decided to stay closed."
"While 12 brands have decided to open their doors on Thanksgiving Day, requiring millions of workers to miss out on time with friends and family, 18 others have decided to stay closed."
We Need to Act Now to Save the Post Office
http://truth-out.org/opinion/item/27554-we-need-to-act-now-to-save-the-post-office#
"On December 20, 2006, right before lawmakers left for the holidays, Republicans in Congress forced through a bill that required the Postal Service to put into a savings account enough money to pay for all of its retired workers' health benefits 75 years into the future. In other words, the Post Office is saving money right now to pay for the health benefits of people who haven't yet even been born!
This is something so massively stupid and destructive that no other business or government agency on earth has ever had to do it or even considered doing it, and it's why the Post Office has been in the red every year since the law was passed in 2006."
"On December 20, 2006, right before lawmakers left for the holidays, Republicans in Congress forced through a bill that required the Postal Service to put into a savings account enough money to pay for all of its retired workers' health benefits 75 years into the future. In other words, the Post Office is saving money right now to pay for the health benefits of people who haven't yet even been born!
This is something so massively stupid and destructive that no other business or government agency on earth has ever had to do it or even considered doing it, and it's why the Post Office has been in the red every year since the law was passed in 2006."
Major Figure In Chris Christie's NJ Pension Scandal Resigns
Major Figure In Chris Christie's NJ Pension Scandal Resigns
"I find it bizarre that members of the corporate media still treat him as a viable candidate for president -- I think he'll be lucky to get away without an indictment!"
"I find it bizarre that members of the corporate media still treat him as a viable candidate for president -- I think he'll be lucky to get away without an indictment!"
Thursday, November 20, 2014
Elizabeth Warren Crushes Republicans For Their Absurd Economic Policies
Elizabeth Warren Crushes Republicans For Their Absurd Economic Policies
"she’s exactly right. We’ve been force-fed trickle-down economics since the early-80′s and it hasn’t worked. The rich are richer than they’ve ever been while the poor and middle class continue to fall further and further behind. After eight years of George W. Bush cutting taxes and deregulating Wall Street, our economy finally hit a breaking point and damn near collapsed. And those are the same failed policies the Republican party wants to return us to. Tax breaks for the rich, less regulation on Wall Street and a guaranteed path to another massive economic breakdown."
"she’s exactly right. We’ve been force-fed trickle-down economics since the early-80′s and it hasn’t worked. The rich are richer than they’ve ever been while the poor and middle class continue to fall further and further behind. After eight years of George W. Bush cutting taxes and deregulating Wall Street, our economy finally hit a breaking point and damn near collapsed. And those are the same failed policies the Republican party wants to return us to. Tax breaks for the rich, less regulation on Wall Street and a guaranteed path to another massive economic breakdown."
Wednesday, November 19, 2014
PERRspectives: Republicans Use Gruber as Cover for Their Deadly Obamacare Lies
PERRspectives: Republicans Use Gruber as Cover for Their Deadly Obamacare Lies
"perhaps the greatest campaign of political deception in modern American history, one that continues to misinform people about Obamacare while needlessly leaving millions without health insurance in the very states where GOP control is strongest.
All along, Republicans greatest fear hasn't been that the Affordable Care Act would fail, but that it would succeed."
"perhaps the greatest campaign of political deception in modern American history, one that continues to misinform people about Obamacare while needlessly leaving millions without health insurance in the very states where GOP control is strongest.
All along, Republicans greatest fear hasn't been that the Affordable Care Act would fail, but that it would succeed."
Ted Cruz Responds to Al Franken, Continues to Prove He Has No Idea What Net Neutrality Means (Video)
Ted Cruz Responds to Al Franken, Continues to Prove He Has No Idea What Net Neutrality Means (Video)
"What President Obama is proposing is a measure to keep the internet exactly how it has always been. That’s it. He wants to reclassify it as a utility so that these greedy internet service providers like Verizon and Comcast can’t screw over businesses and consumers by charging websites fees so that their content will be delivered to the consumer at the speed for which they’re already paying."
"What President Obama is proposing is a measure to keep the internet exactly how it has always been. That’s it. He wants to reclassify it as a utility so that these greedy internet service providers like Verizon and Comcast can’t screw over businesses and consumers by charging websites fees so that their content will be delivered to the consumer at the speed for which they’re already paying."
Erick Erickson’s shutdown fantasy: Have GOP hurt people, then lie about it!
Erick Erickson’s shutdown fantasy: Have GOP hurt people, then lie about it!
"Erick Erickson is explicitly advocating that the Republican Party deliberately cause people real pain, and then lie about it for political benefit."
"Erick Erickson is explicitly advocating that the Republican Party deliberately cause people real pain, and then lie about it for political benefit."
Republicans' New Plan To Rig 2016 Electoral College
Republicans' New Plan To Rig 2016 Electoral College
"As usual, if they can't win outright, they'll just cheat with tactics like voter suppression, outright disenfranchisement, and more. The "more" also means resurrecting the zombie electoral college apportionment that would randomly add electors to Republican candidates in a losing state while not giving Democrats any in states they lose."
"As usual, if they can't win outright, they'll just cheat with tactics like voter suppression, outright disenfranchisement, and more. The "more" also means resurrecting the zombie electoral college apportionment that would randomly add electors to Republican candidates in a losing state while not giving Democrats any in states they lose."
What to Do About Record Low Voter Turnout? Call a Holiday! | The Nation
What to Do About Record Low Voter Turnout? Call a Holiday! | The Nation
"How about making Election Day a holiday? That’s hardly a radical idea. Countries around the world schedule elections on weekends or recognize weekdays when elections are held as a holiday. Louisiana usually votes on Saturdays. And roughly a dozen states and jurisdictions give some recognition to Election Day as a holiday. So why not take the idea national?
That’s what Senator Sanders is proposing. Even before November 4, the independent from Vermont argued that, as part of a broader effort to generate the largest possible turnout, “Election Day should be a national holiday so that everyone has the opportunity to vote"."
"How about making Election Day a holiday? That’s hardly a radical idea. Countries around the world schedule elections on weekends or recognize weekdays when elections are held as a holiday. Louisiana usually votes on Saturdays. And roughly a dozen states and jurisdictions give some recognition to Election Day as a holiday. So why not take the idea national?
That’s what Senator Sanders is proposing. Even before November 4, the independent from Vermont argued that, as part of a broader effort to generate the largest possible turnout, “Election Day should be a national holiday so that everyone has the opportunity to vote"."
Tuesday, November 18, 2014
Paul Krugman has good news — and the GOP doesn’t want you to hear it
Paul Krugman has good news — and the GOP doesn’t want you to hear it
"Take the Energy Department’s renewable energy loan program. Chances are that if you’ve heard of it, it’s because you’ve read about the failure of Solyndra, a renewable energy company whose failure cost the government more than half a billion dollars. Republicans pounced on Solyndra’s collapse to deride federal subsidies and crony capitalism, but they were mysteriously silent last week when the Energy Department reported that its renewable energy program has actually turned a $5 billion profit overall."
"Take the Energy Department’s renewable energy loan program. Chances are that if you’ve heard of it, it’s because you’ve read about the failure of Solyndra, a renewable energy company whose failure cost the government more than half a billion dollars. Republicans pounced on Solyndra’s collapse to deride federal subsidies and crony capitalism, but they were mysteriously silent last week when the Energy Department reported that its renewable energy program has actually turned a $5 billion profit overall."
The Republican Party is Driven by Two of the Most Destructive Forces in Human History
The Republican Party is Driven by Two of the Most Destructive Forces in Human History
"The Republican party’s economic beliefs are entirely predicated on the belief that 98 percent of Americans will be better off by making the top 2 percent richer. Even now one of the biggest right-wing attacks used against President Obama is wage stagnation. But they’re apparently too ignorant to understand that when they complain about stagnant wages, while taxes are low and the rich are doing better than ever, they’re actually admitting that trickle-down economics doesn’t work. When you get right down to it, the two biggest driving forces behind the Republican party are greed and religion. And those just happen to be two of the most destructive things human beings have endured throughout our history."
"The Republican party’s economic beliefs are entirely predicated on the belief that 98 percent of Americans will be better off by making the top 2 percent richer. Even now one of the biggest right-wing attacks used against President Obama is wage stagnation. But they’re apparently too ignorant to understand that when they complain about stagnant wages, while taxes are low and the rich are doing better than ever, they’re actually admitting that trickle-down economics doesn’t work. When you get right down to it, the two biggest driving forces behind the Republican party are greed and religion. And those just happen to be two of the most destructive things human beings have endured throughout our history."
An Embattled ALEC, Buoyed by Election Results, Lays Blueprint for 2015
An Embattled ALEC, Buoyed by Election Results, Lays Blueprint for 2015
"ALEC has long pushed bills like the “Living Wage Preemption Act" to block city, county, or local governments from enacting progressive economic initiatives like a higher minimum wage. In light of the renewed grassroots push for fair wage laws, this bill to crush a local government's ability to increase wages in their community will likely be a top ALEC priority in 2015."
"ALEC has long pushed bills like the “Living Wage Preemption Act" to block city, county, or local governments from enacting progressive economic initiatives like a higher minimum wage. In light of the renewed grassroots push for fair wage laws, this bill to crush a local government's ability to increase wages in their community will likely be a top ALEC priority in 2015."
When Mega Corporations Get Mega Tax Breaks, We All Pay | The Nation
When Mega Corporations Get Mega Tax Breaks, We All Pay | The Nation
"if seven giant corporations—Boeing, Chevron, Citigroup, Ford, General Motors, JPMorgan Chase, and Verizon—had paid the statutory corporate tax rate of 35 percent, they would have owed $25.9 billion. Instead, the seven companies received a combined $1.9 billion in tax refunds"
"if seven giant corporations—Boeing, Chevron, Citigroup, Ford, General Motors, JPMorgan Chase, and Verizon—had paid the statutory corporate tax rate of 35 percent, they would have owed $25.9 billion. Instead, the seven companies received a combined $1.9 billion in tax refunds"
Drug Warrior Mitch McConnell Tied To Millions In Cocaine
Drug Warrior Mitch McConnell Tied To Millions In Cocaine
"Requests for comment to the McConnell team about the Ping May cocaine incident have gone unanswered.
McConnell has positioned himself over the years as a tough on drugs politician. In 1996, McConnell was the sole sponsor of the Enhanced Marijuana Penalties Act, a bill to increase the mandatory minimum sentencing for those caught with certain amounts of marijuana. A press release noted that his bill would make “penalties for selling marijuana comparable to those for selling heroin and cocaine.”
In recent weeks, McConnell has touted his role in calling for more federal money to be used for drug enforcement."
"Requests for comment to the McConnell team about the Ping May cocaine incident have gone unanswered.
McConnell has positioned himself over the years as a tough on drugs politician. In 1996, McConnell was the sole sponsor of the Enhanced Marijuana Penalties Act, a bill to increase the mandatory minimum sentencing for those caught with certain amounts of marijuana. A press release noted that his bill would make “penalties for selling marijuana comparable to those for selling heroin and cocaine.”
In recent weeks, McConnell has touted his role in calling for more federal money to be used for drug enforcement."
The Disturbing Hypocrisy Among Many Senior Citizens When it Comes to Social Security and Medicare
The Disturbing Hypocrisy Among Many Senior Citizens When it Comes to Social Security and Medicare
"there’s a huge hypocrisy when it comes to the tens of millions of senior citizens who often vote for Republicans who also heavily rely on these programs to survive. The truth of the matter is, Republicans would love to get rid of both Social Security and Medicare. In fact, they’re frequently trying to do just that."
"there’s a huge hypocrisy when it comes to the tens of millions of senior citizens who often vote for Republicans who also heavily rely on these programs to survive. The truth of the matter is, Republicans would love to get rid of both Social Security and Medicare. In fact, they’re frequently trying to do just that."
Americans Must Stop Allowing Themselves to be Distracted by Republican Propaganda
Americans Must Stop Allowing Themselves to be Distracted by Republican Propaganda
"The fiscally conservative party – that hasn’t had a president from their party balance the budget in nearly 60 years."
"The fiscally conservative party – that hasn’t had a president from their party balance the budget in nearly 60 years."
Ted Cruz Can’t Stop Lying About Net Neutrality. And Here’s a Whopper.
Ted Cruz Can’t Stop Lying About Net Neutrality. And Here’s a Whopper.
"Over the weekend, Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX) continued his crusade against net neutrality, but this time with Carrot Top style props to illustrate his gargantuan lies about the subject."
"Over the weekend, Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX) continued his crusade against net neutrality, but this time with Carrot Top style props to illustrate his gargantuan lies about the subject."
Unions Are Among the Very Few Interest Groups that Represent the Middle Class
https://www.americanprogressaction.org/issues/labor/news/2014/11/14/101163/unions-are-among-the-very-few-interest-groups-that-represent-the-middle-class-2/
"Buried deep inside Princeton University political scientist Martin Gilens’ research highlighting the excessive influence the rich have on modern U.S. politics, there is a hidden gem exploring which interest groups best represent the priorities of the middle class. Gilens found that, while most powerful interest groups advocate for policies that predominately benefit their narrowly defined members, relatively few focus on policies that the middle class supports. According to Gilens, most of these middle-class oriented groups are unions"
"Buried deep inside Princeton University political scientist Martin Gilens’ research highlighting the excessive influence the rich have on modern U.S. politics, there is a hidden gem exploring which interest groups best represent the priorities of the middle class. Gilens found that, while most powerful interest groups advocate for policies that predominately benefit their narrowly defined members, relatively few focus on policies that the middle class supports. According to Gilens, most of these middle-class oriented groups are unions"
Bobby Jindal's Sneaky, Smarmy Lie To Chuck Todd About Medicaid Expansion
Bobby Jindal's Sneaky, Smarmy Lie To Chuck Todd About Medicaid Expansion
"Because he refused to expand Medicaid, hospitals are closing emergency rooms around the state. Worse yet, that charity hospital system is being privatized, which means hospitals will not get the benefit of federal dollars to defray the costs of treating the poor.
In other words, that claim of Jindal's that people will leave private insurance is a straight-up lie because all he needed to have done was present a plan simillar to the one his cohorts in Arkansas and Pennsylvania did to allow private carriers to cover Medicaid-eligible residents of Louisiana."
"Because he refused to expand Medicaid, hospitals are closing emergency rooms around the state. Worse yet, that charity hospital system is being privatized, which means hospitals will not get the benefit of federal dollars to defray the costs of treating the poor.
In other words, that claim of Jindal's that people will leave private insurance is a straight-up lie because all he needed to have done was present a plan simillar to the one his cohorts in Arkansas and Pennsylvania did to allow private carriers to cover Medicaid-eligible residents of Louisiana."
Compassionate Conservatism Version 2016
Compassionate Conservatism Version 2016
"George Bush not only made the term "compassionate conservatism" a common phrase but also showed what a joke it is."
"George Bush not only made the term "compassionate conservatism" a common phrase but also showed what a joke it is."
Twitter Accounts Used By GOPers To Evade Campaign Coordination Laws
Twitter Accounts Used By GOPers To Evade Campaign Coordination Laws
"Man, we really need to get all this money out of campaigns! The Twitter accounts were deleted as soon as CNN contacted the NRCC and asked about them. Nothing to hide there, right, boys?"
"Man, we really need to get all this money out of campaigns! The Twitter accounts were deleted as soon as CNN contacted the NRCC and asked about them. Nothing to hide there, right, boys?"
Monday, November 17, 2014
Chris Christie To Bring Michigan’s Fascist Emergency Manager Law To New Jersey (VIDEO)
http://www.addictinginfo.org/2014/11/14/chris-christie-brings-emergency-manager-to-atlantic-city/
"On November 12, 2014, New Jersey governor Chris Christie announced his intention to bring Michigan-style emergency management laws to the state. Much like Michigan governor Rick Snyder did when imposing the law on residents of that state, Christie is using the excuse of a “financial emergency” in Atlantic City as justification for eliminating democracy and disenfranchising thousands of citizens."
"On November 12, 2014, New Jersey governor Chris Christie announced his intention to bring Michigan-style emergency management laws to the state. Much like Michigan governor Rick Snyder did when imposing the law on residents of that state, Christie is using the excuse of a “financial emergency” in Atlantic City as justification for eliminating democracy and disenfranchising thousands of citizens."
The Real Winner of the Midterms: Wall Street
http://inthesetimes.com/article/17360/the_real_winner_of_the_midterms_wall_street
"The election results affirmed that Wall Street firms' massive campaign contributions were money well spent: More public pension money will now likely be entrusted to the financial services industry."
"The election results affirmed that Wall Street firms' massive campaign contributions were money well spent: More public pension money will now likely be entrusted to the financial services industry."
Friday, November 14, 2014
Elizabeth Warren: Corporations Are Taking Over the Courts with the GOP’s Help
http://www.alternet.org/news-amp-politics/elizabeth-warren-corporations-are-taking-over-courts-gops-help
"The same corporate interests who have taken over control of Congress are now gaining control of U.S. courts, warned Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-MA)."
"The same corporate interests who have taken over control of Congress are now gaining control of U.S. courts, warned Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-MA)."
AT&T: Nice internet you got there, it'd be a shame if anything happened to it…
http://www.dailykos.com/story/2014/11/12/1344385/-AT-T-Nice-internet-you-got-there-it-d-be-a-shame-if-anything-happened-nbsp-to-nbsp-it
"AT&T, though, is just flexing their muscles now, to prove to the FCC and Chairman Wheeler that they will be massive ass***** over net neutrality, and they'll do it by screwing over their customers. The company's willingness to do so should be ample justification for the FCC to do the right thing and reclassify internet access."
"AT&T, though, is just flexing their muscles now, to prove to the FCC and Chairman Wheeler that they will be massive ass***** over net neutrality, and they'll do it by screwing over their customers. The company's willingness to do so should be ample justification for the FCC to do the right thing and reclassify internet access."
Freedomworks Spokesperson Attacks Net Neutrality, Has No Idea What It Means
Freedomworks Spokesperson Attacks Net Neutrality, Has No Idea What It Means
"Republicans have also strongly denounced Net Neutrality, just in case you thought FreedumbWorks was somehow alone. And given the fallout from earlier this month, I wouldn't be surprised if this was the year that we buried Net Neutrality. Great job, America. Your choice continues to impress me."
"Republicans have also strongly denounced Net Neutrality, just in case you thought FreedumbWorks was somehow alone. And given the fallout from earlier this month, I wouldn't be surprised if this was the year that we buried Net Neutrality. Great job, America. Your choice continues to impress me."
Five Conservatives Who Don't Understand Net Neutrality…But Are Definitely Against It! | Right Wing Watch
Five Conservatives Who Don't Understand Net Neutrality…But Are Definitely Against It! | Right Wing Watch
"something many of them did not seem to understand. But luckily, many conservative politicians and pundits have an easy way of deciding where to stand on an issue: if Obama is for it, it will destroy America and they are against it!"
"something many of them did not seem to understand. But luckily, many conservative politicians and pundits have an easy way of deciding where to stand on an issue: if Obama is for it, it will destroy America and they are against it!"
Thursday, November 13, 2014
Elizabeth Warren Gets Senate Leadership Post
Elizabeth Warren Gets Senate Leadership Post
"Warren's new role, which was created specifically for her, will be strategic policy adviser to the Democratic Policy and Communications Committee."
"Warren's new role, which was created specifically for her, will be strategic policy adviser to the Democratic Policy and Communications Committee."
AT&T Holds Broadband Expansion Hostage Over Obama's Call For Net Neutrality
AT&T Holds Broadband Expansion Hostage Over Obama's Call For Net Neutrality
"Here's a memo for FCC Chairman Tom Wheeler, too. You will not and you cannot please everybody. You will either go down in history as the regulator who killed the Internet or the one who saved it. Make a decision. The right decision."
"Here's a memo for FCC Chairman Tom Wheeler, too. You will not and you cannot please everybody. You will either go down in history as the regulator who killed the Internet or the one who saved it. Make a decision. The right decision."
Tea Party Group Releases Ad So Ridiculous You’d Think It Was Rejected from ‘The Onion’ (Video)
Tea Party Group Releases Ad So Ridiculous You’d Think It Was Rejected from ‘The Onion’ (Video)
"And if these disgusting, bottom-feeding vile propagandists get their way, the Internet will be destroyed. Ending net neutrality takes the control out of your hands and puts it in the hands of companies like Comcast, and whatever big corporations decide to pay those companies for premium access to deliver their sites at faster speeds while throttling the competition that can’t afford to do so."
"And if these disgusting, bottom-feeding vile propagandists get their way, the Internet will be destroyed. Ending net neutrality takes the control out of your hands and puts it in the hands of companies like Comcast, and whatever big corporations decide to pay those companies for premium access to deliver their sites at faster speeds while throttling the competition that can’t afford to do so."
Wednesday, November 12, 2014
Get ready for Ryancare, America! Why GOP’s all set to end Medicare as we know it
Get ready for Ryancare, America! Why GOP’s all set to end Medicare as we know it
"GOP Congressional leaders are promising to act immediately on their budget-slashing ideas when 2015 begins. High on their list, according to the New York Times, is implementing Rep. Paul Ryan’s plan to “overhaul” Medicare by replacing it with “premium support” vouchers designed to privatize the system over the coming decades. They will also form a commission to examine “options” for Social Security, which Ryan has also long favored privatizing."
"GOP Congressional leaders are promising to act immediately on their budget-slashing ideas when 2015 begins. High on their list, according to the New York Times, is implementing Rep. Paul Ryan’s plan to “overhaul” Medicare by replacing it with “premium support” vouchers designed to privatize the system over the coming decades. They will also form a commission to examine “options” for Social Security, which Ryan has also long favored privatizing."
The Humiliating Statistic From This Year’s Elections That Republicans Don’t Want to Talk About
The Humiliating Statistic From This Year’s Elections That Republicans Don’t Want to Talk About
"How bad was it? Well, we just experienced the worst voter turnout in this country since 1942. You know, right in the middle of WWII."
"How bad was it? Well, we just experienced the worst voter turnout in this country since 1942. You know, right in the middle of WWII."
Hightower: Why Corporations Are Doing Everything They Can to Destroy Net Neutrality
http://www.alternet.org/news-amp-politics/hightower-why-corporations-are-doing-everything-they-can-destroy-net-neutrality
"The biggest loser though, would be the Internet itself, which would be made to surrender its determinedly democratic ethic to the plutocratic rule of corporate profiteers."
"The biggest loser though, would be the Internet itself, which would be made to surrender its determinedly democratic ethic to the plutocratic rule of corporate profiteers."
The President Might Have Just Saved the Internet
The President Might Have Just Saved the Internet
"We still need to keep the pressure on the FCC unless and until Wheeler follows the president's lead and crafts strong rules under Title II. (A statement Wheeler put out in response to the president indicates the FCC may take more time to write new rules, which could push an expected December vote into early 2015.) Until the full Commission passes real Net Neutrality protections, we can't let up.
And we need to get ready for a backlash. Because powerful companies like AT&T, Comcast and Verizon will attack the president's move. They will unleash their legions of high-priced lobbyists and misinformation-spreading flacks. These companies aren't used to losing in Washington."
"We still need to keep the pressure on the FCC unless and until Wheeler follows the president's lead and crafts strong rules under Title II. (A statement Wheeler put out in response to the president indicates the FCC may take more time to write new rules, which could push an expected December vote into early 2015.) Until the full Commission passes real Net Neutrality protections, we can't let up.
And we need to get ready for a backlash. Because powerful companies like AT&T, Comcast and Verizon will attack the president's move. They will unleash their legions of high-priced lobbyists and misinformation-spreading flacks. These companies aren't used to losing in Washington."
The Horrors of an Ayn Rand World: Why We Must Fight for America's Soul
http://www.alternet.org/books/horrors-ayn-rand-world-why-we-must-fight-americas-soul
"All laws protecting consumers would be erased from the statute books.
Mass transit would grind to a halt in the big cities as municipal subsidies come to an end.
Corporations would no longer be enslaved by antitrust laws, so monopolies and globe-spanning, price-fixing cartels would flourish. The number of publicly held corporations would be reduced to a manageable, noncompetitive few. Big Pharma would manufacture drugs without adequate testing for safety and efficacy—deterred only by concern for their reputation, as described by Greenspan in 1963. Except that with competition reduced by mergers and legal price-fixing, the market would be a feeble substitute for even the FDA.
Securities laws and stock market regulations would be eliminated.
Corporations would operate in secret if they so desired, or with only selective, cursory disclosures to their investors and customers. Only outright fraud would be prosecuted; otherwise the public— a concept no longer recognized as valid— would be on its own.
Insider trading, now legal, would become the norm. Wall Street now would truly be a sucker’s game. “Let the buyer beware” would replace the fifty state regulators and the SEC."
"All laws protecting consumers would be erased from the statute books.
Mass transit would grind to a halt in the big cities as municipal subsidies come to an end.
Corporations would no longer be enslaved by antitrust laws, so monopolies and globe-spanning, price-fixing cartels would flourish. The number of publicly held corporations would be reduced to a manageable, noncompetitive few. Big Pharma would manufacture drugs without adequate testing for safety and efficacy—deterred only by concern for their reputation, as described by Greenspan in 1963. Except that with competition reduced by mergers and legal price-fixing, the market would be a feeble substitute for even the FDA.
Securities laws and stock market regulations would be eliminated.
Corporations would operate in secret if they so desired, or with only selective, cursory disclosures to their investors and customers. Only outright fraud would be prosecuted; otherwise the public— a concept no longer recognized as valid— would be on its own.
Insider trading, now legal, would become the norm. Wall Street now would truly be a sucker’s game. “Let the buyer beware” would replace the fifty state regulators and the SEC."
Rig the vote! The right resurrects a shady plan to skew 2016 in the GOP’s favor
Rig the vote! The right resurrects a shady plan to skew 2016 in the GOP’s favor
"Republicans and conservatives are looking to the future and trying to figure out how they can repeat this year’s success in the 2016 presidential race. It’s going to require some big ideas and some bold thinking. First out of the box is National Review’s Jim Geraghty, who believes it’s time for Republicans to seriously consider a plan to straight-up rig the Electoral College in such a way that it makes it impossible for the GOP to lose"
"Republicans and conservatives are looking to the future and trying to figure out how they can repeat this year’s success in the 2016 presidential race. It’s going to require some big ideas and some bold thinking. First out of the box is National Review’s Jim Geraghty, who believes it’s time for Republicans to seriously consider a plan to straight-up rig the Electoral College in such a way that it makes it impossible for the GOP to lose"
Ted Cruz gets even more annoying: Why he wants to make the Internet worse
Ted Cruz gets even more annoying: Why he wants to make the Internet worse
"Cruz is claiming to stand up for free-market principles against big-government, but he’s actually poisoning a conversation about increasing competition among broadband providers that most conservatives would probably like to have."
"Cruz is claiming to stand up for free-market principles against big-government, but he’s actually poisoning a conversation about increasing competition among broadband providers that most conservatives would probably like to have."
Ted Cruz Completely Embarrasses Himself After Making Asinine Comment About Net Neutrality
Ted Cruz Completely Embarrasses Himself After Making Asinine Comment About Net Neutrality
"But what Cruz is really doing is trying to use the hatred conservatives have for “Obamacare” to channel that toward net neutrality, because I can pretty much guarantee that the vast majority of people who read that tweet and agree with it have no damn clue what net neutrality is."
"But what Cruz is really doing is trying to use the hatred conservatives have for “Obamacare” to channel that toward net neutrality, because I can pretty much guarantee that the vast majority of people who read that tweet and agree with it have no damn clue what net neutrality is."
Koch Party Wins Big, Planet in Peril
Koch Party Wins Big, Planet in Peril
"The Koch's Americans for Prosperity, a nonprofit dark money group that does not disclose its donors, is reported to have spent some $77 million on competitive Senate and House races, says a spokesman. The Koch's new Freedom Partners Action Fund, a super PAC that discloses some of its donors, spent some $25 million. Not all Koch candidates won their races, but the Koch were ranked big winners in the Sunlight Foundations post-election "return on investment" analysis.
This $100 million does not count all the Koch-tied groups, their personal contributions or all contributions of the Koch network of funders which may top the $300 million Washington Post estimate. As a point of comparison, the DNC and the RNC combined spent $300 million this election cycle."
"The Koch's Americans for Prosperity, a nonprofit dark money group that does not disclose its donors, is reported to have spent some $77 million on competitive Senate and House races, says a spokesman. The Koch's new Freedom Partners Action Fund, a super PAC that discloses some of its donors, spent some $25 million. Not all Koch candidates won their races, but the Koch were ranked big winners in the Sunlight Foundations post-election "return on investment" analysis.
This $100 million does not count all the Koch-tied groups, their personal contributions or all contributions of the Koch network of funders which may top the $300 million Washington Post estimate. As a point of comparison, the DNC and the RNC combined spent $300 million this election cycle."
A Tale Of Two Countries: The Haves and the Leftovers
A Tale Of Two Countries: The Haves and the Leftovers
"Observe any post-election geographical map of the United States whether it is in a presidential election year or a midterm election and close to 90% of the country is red. Red states dictate the direction our country takes like it or not.
But, they fall short in representing anything close to 90% of the population. Add the combined total population of a dozen red states and they barely equal the size of one city in a blue state like California or New York.
Why does this matter? Because each state receives two U.S. Senators you will always see an imbalance in how citizens are represented in our congress. Also, red state voters, even those with low populations, vote in Republican House members almost by default regardless of that politician's qualifications or lack thereof."
"Observe any post-election geographical map of the United States whether it is in a presidential election year or a midterm election and close to 90% of the country is red. Red states dictate the direction our country takes like it or not.
But, they fall short in representing anything close to 90% of the population. Add the combined total population of a dozen red states and they barely equal the size of one city in a blue state like California or New York.
Why does this matter? Because each state receives two U.S. Senators you will always see an imbalance in how citizens are represented in our congress. Also, red state voters, even those with low populations, vote in Republican House members almost by default regardless of that politician's qualifications or lack thereof."
Who Won in 2014 Election? Those Who Received the Most Campaign Money
Who Won in 2014 Election? Those Who Received the Most Campaign Money
"big money contributors, including corporations, are influencing the outcome of elections more than ever before - often with their anonymity intact."
"big money contributors, including corporations, are influencing the outcome of elections more than ever before - often with their anonymity intact."
Tuesday, November 11, 2014
Students Walk Out for Native Justice, ‘Un-Koch’ 28 Campuses and ‘Carry That Weight’ Everywhere | The Nation
Students Walk Out for Native Justice, ‘Un-Koch’ 28 Campuses and ‘Carry That Weight’ Everywhere | The Nation
"On November 3, students at Florida State University marched to Florida’s capitol protesting the dramatic influence that corrupt corporate donors have on our public education system, from contracts between FSU’s Department of Economics and the Charles Koch Foundation to the recent decision by a Koch-influenced Board of Trustees to appoint a three-time Koch-funded politician as president of FSU. FSU’s fight has inspired students across the country to #UnKoch their campuses. On Monday, we were joined by twenty-seven other campuses, from George Mason to Temple to Oregon, where students are raising their voices and passing resolutions to demand transparency and integrity. Together, we stand against “strings attached” funding that violates academic freedom by placing limitations and expectations on research outcomes and instruction."
"On November 3, students at Florida State University marched to Florida’s capitol protesting the dramatic influence that corrupt corporate donors have on our public education system, from contracts between FSU’s Department of Economics and the Charles Koch Foundation to the recent decision by a Koch-influenced Board of Trustees to appoint a three-time Koch-funded politician as president of FSU. FSU’s fight has inspired students across the country to #UnKoch their campuses. On Monday, we were joined by twenty-seven other campuses, from George Mason to Temple to Oregon, where students are raising their voices and passing resolutions to demand transparency and integrity. Together, we stand against “strings attached” funding that violates academic freedom by placing limitations and expectations on research outcomes and instruction."
To Anybody Against Net Neutrality: Are You Out of Your Damn Mind?
To Anybody Against Net Neutrality: Are You Out of Your Damn Mind?
"How has this become a political issue? Is this how divided we’ve become? Even when it comes to access to the internet, apparently we have to make it into a left vs. right argument. Oh, I know why – because President Obama dared to say that net neutrality is important and jackasses like Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX) feel the need to oppose anything and everything the president says. Not only that, but Republicans are shills for big business and these giant cable conglomerates really want to kill net neutrality.
Net neutrality should be one of the few things where there’s absolutely no debate among American consumers and politicians."
"How has this become a political issue? Is this how divided we’ve become? Even when it comes to access to the internet, apparently we have to make it into a left vs. right argument. Oh, I know why – because President Obama dared to say that net neutrality is important and jackasses like Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX) feel the need to oppose anything and everything the president says. Not only that, but Republicans are shills for big business and these giant cable conglomerates really want to kill net neutrality.
Net neutrality should be one of the few things where there’s absolutely no debate among American consumers and politicians."
Monday, November 10, 2014
In Response to 'Unprecedented' Public Outcry, Obama Goes Big on Net Neutrality
In Response to 'Unprecedented' Public Outcry, Obama Goes Big on Net Neutrality
"Responding to the call of millions of Americans and years of grassroots campaigning, President Obama on Monday took what net neutrality proponents called a "major step" towards the protection of the Internet by issuing a statement calling for the safeguarding of "one of the most significant democratizing influences the world has ever known"."
"Responding to the call of millions of Americans and years of grassroots campaigning, President Obama on Monday took what net neutrality proponents called a "major step" towards the protection of the Internet by issuing a statement calling for the safeguarding of "one of the most significant democratizing influences the world has ever known"."
Ted Cruz’s “Net Neutrality Is Obamacare For The Internet” Tweet Shows He Understands Neither
http://www.politicususa.com/2014/11/10/ted-cruzs-net-neutrality-obamacare-internet-tweet-shows-understands.html
"Of course, Cruz has no earthly idea what he is talking about. It almost seems like he had never bothered to really look at net neutrality before Monday and just thought it would sound good if he could make a comparison to Obamacare and say government is bad. Immediately, Cruz was ridiculed all across the ideological spectrum."
"Of course, Cruz has no earthly idea what he is talking about. It almost seems like he had never bothered to really look at net neutrality before Monday and just thought it would sound good if he could make a comparison to Obamacare and say government is bad. Immediately, Cruz was ridiculed all across the ideological spectrum."
Obama Pushes Back Against Comcast and Verizon By Urging Strong FCC Action On Net Neutrality
http://www.politicususa.com/2014/11/10/obama-pushes-comcast-verizon-urging-strong-fcc-action-net-neutrality.html
"The corporations already control the media. Tell them to keep their hands off of your Internet."
"The corporations already control the media. Tell them to keep their hands off of your Internet."
President Obama: 10 Reasons Why Speedy Internet Access Is a Right, Not a Product for Sale
http://www.alternet.org/economy/president-obama-10-reasons-why-speedy-internet-access-right-not-product-sale
"The White House issued one of its strongest statements on “net neutrality” Monday, saying federal regulators should write new rules that treat speedy Internet access as a right to an electronic public square where everyone has speedy service, not a commercial product parsed and priced according to different users and uses."
"The White House issued one of its strongest statements on “net neutrality” Monday, saying federal regulators should write new rules that treat speedy Internet access as a right to an electronic public square where everyone has speedy service, not a commercial product parsed and priced according to different users and uses."
Fox's Legal Analyst Brands The Principle Of Net Neutrality As "Orwellian"
http://mediamatters.org/blog/2014/11/10/foxs-legal-analyst-brands-the-principle-of-net/201517
"Net neutrality -- what Napolitano deemed "Orwellian" -- is the guiding principle that the internet's founders have called fundamental to the internet's success."
"Net neutrality -- what Napolitano deemed "Orwellian" -- is the guiding principle that the internet's founders have called fundamental to the internet's success."
President Obama: FCC should reclassify internet status to preserve net neutrality
http://www.dailykos.com/story/2014/11/10/1343751/-President-Obama-FCC-should-reclassify-internet-status-to-preserve-net-nbsp-neutrality
"This is a strong repudiation of FCC Chairman Tom Wheeler's latest proposal. This is a very big deal as the FCC moves into the final weeks before it issues its new rules."
"This is a strong repudiation of FCC Chairman Tom Wheeler's latest proposal. This is a very big deal as the FCC moves into the final weeks before it issues its new rules."
Ted Cruz attacks net neutrality with totally incoherent Obamacare analogy
Ted Cruz attacks net neutrality with totally incoherent Obamacare analogy
"Of course, net neutrality isn’t about slowing down the Internet — it would ban evil cable companies from slowing down content just because content providers hadn’t paid exorbitant sums of money to the cable company to speed up service. But lest we get bogged down with the reality-based community’s facts, let’s focus on the bottom line: Ted Cruz hates net neutrality, and he really hates Obamacare, so net neutrality is basically Obamacare of the Internet."
"Of course, net neutrality isn’t about slowing down the Internet — it would ban evil cable companies from slowing down content just because content providers hadn’t paid exorbitant sums of money to the cable company to speed up service. But lest we get bogged down with the reality-based community’s facts, let’s focus on the bottom line: Ted Cruz hates net neutrality, and he really hates Obamacare, so net neutrality is basically Obamacare of the Internet."
Obama Just Announced His Full Support to Preserve Net Neutrality
http://www.motherjones.com/mojo/2014/11/obama-net-neutrality
"Unsurprisingly, the GOP is not happy with the president's plan"
"Unsurprisingly, the GOP is not happy with the president's plan"
Obama Calls For Ban On Internet Fast Lanes To Protect Net Neutrality (Updated)
http://thinkprogress.org/justice/2014/11/10/3590728/obama-fcc-net-neutrality/
"In the clearest message to date, President Barack Obama called on the U.S. Federal Communications on Monday to do everything in its power to keep the Internet free and open for everyone by preserving net neutrality."
"In the clearest message to date, President Barack Obama called on the U.S. Federal Communications on Monday to do everything in its power to keep the Internet free and open for everyone by preserving net neutrality."
Sunday, November 9, 2014
The Republican Party and the Great Conservative Long Con
The Republican Party and the Great Conservative Long Con
"And how exactly are Republicans for “small government”? Last time I checked Republican legislatures all over this country were passing laws that massively expanded government over our voting process, women’s bodies, gay rights and marriage. Then let’s not forget that this was the party that passed the Patriot Act – one of the largest “big government bills” in United States history. The truth is conservatives are for “small government” when it benefits something they support (guns, religion, big oil) but they love big government when it can be used to their benefit. But it’s all okay, because Republicans have managed to tie in religion with their propaganda so that conservatives won’t think about the lies they’re being told. To many conservatives, being a Republican is tied in directly with their religious beliefs. They’ll never question their politics because that would be like questioning their religion, and that’s a big no-no for Christian conservatives. But all of this right-wing rhetoric is tied into their elaborate long con. They’re constantly promising balanced budgets, fiscal responsibility, tax cuts that lead to economic prosperity, and it will all happen…someday. It’s coming. They promise. Just keep electing them and eventually they promise to deliver on these nearly 40-year-old promises. Except, of course, they never will. And that’s how cons work; they promise everything, deliver nothing, and sadly tens of millions of Americans continue to fall for it."
"And how exactly are Republicans for “small government”? Last time I checked Republican legislatures all over this country were passing laws that massively expanded government over our voting process, women’s bodies, gay rights and marriage. Then let’s not forget that this was the party that passed the Patriot Act – one of the largest “big government bills” in United States history. The truth is conservatives are for “small government” when it benefits something they support (guns, religion, big oil) but they love big government when it can be used to their benefit. But it’s all okay, because Republicans have managed to tie in religion with their propaganda so that conservatives won’t think about the lies they’re being told. To many conservatives, being a Republican is tied in directly with their religious beliefs. They’ll never question their politics because that would be like questioning their religion, and that’s a big no-no for Christian conservatives. But all of this right-wing rhetoric is tied into their elaborate long con. They’re constantly promising balanced budgets, fiscal responsibility, tax cuts that lead to economic prosperity, and it will all happen…someday. It’s coming. They promise. Just keep electing them and eventually they promise to deliver on these nearly 40-year-old promises. Except, of course, they never will. And that’s how cons work; they promise everything, deliver nothing, and sadly tens of millions of Americans continue to fall for it."
“An international embarrassment”: Bernie Sanders decries low turnout, wants to make Election Day a national holiday
“An international embarrassment”: Bernie Sanders decries low turnout, wants to make Election Day a national holiday
"Tuesday’s midterm elections saw abysmally low turnout, with fewer than 37 percent of eligible voters casting ballots, compared with 41 percent in the 2010 midterms. White males and older voters accounted for a disproportionate share of this year’s electorate, propelling Republicans to Senate control, an historic House majority, and big victories in key gubernatorial and statehouse races."
"Tuesday’s midterm elections saw abysmally low turnout, with fewer than 37 percent of eligible voters casting ballots, compared with 41 percent in the 2010 midterms. White males and older voters accounted for a disproportionate share of this year’s electorate, propelling Republicans to Senate control, an historic House majority, and big victories in key gubernatorial and statehouse races."
Saturday, November 8, 2014
Our Fourth Estate Is A Bunch Of Cowards
Our Fourth Estate Is A Bunch Of Cowards
"Nothing is fine. Republicans broke it, they own it, and they're not going to fix it. Nor will they be expected to, because they've got a fine press corps out there waiting to run interference for them.
In the coming months, Republicans will work very hard at doing nothing. They will continue to obstruct and obfuscate and the press will let them. Chuck Todd will lead off Meet the Press with commentary about how the lack of cooperation between the White House and the Congress can be laid at the uppity Administration's feet, while he concern trolls over the most minute details of whatever the Scandal of the Week is.
As will the rest of them. Chuck isn't all that different from his peers. And in 2016, we will all hear campaigns about how the eight-year nightmare of terror that is the Obama administration is coming to a close, while no one actually tells the truth at a national level.
This is what happens when you put corporate toadies in positions intended for braver souls."
"Nothing is fine. Republicans broke it, they own it, and they're not going to fix it. Nor will they be expected to, because they've got a fine press corps out there waiting to run interference for them.
In the coming months, Republicans will work very hard at doing nothing. They will continue to obstruct and obfuscate and the press will let them. Chuck Todd will lead off Meet the Press with commentary about how the lack of cooperation between the White House and the Congress can be laid at the uppity Administration's feet, while he concern trolls over the most minute details of whatever the Scandal of the Week is.
As will the rest of them. Chuck isn't all that different from his peers. And in 2016, we will all hear campaigns about how the eight-year nightmare of terror that is the Obama administration is coming to a close, while no one actually tells the truth at a national level.
This is what happens when you put corporate toadies in positions intended for braver souls."
Republicans Got Only 52 Percent of the Vote in House Races | The Nation
Republicans Got Only 52 Percent of the Vote in House Races | The Nation
"How did they end up with 57 percent of the seats?"
"How did they end up with 57 percent of the seats?"
Voter Suppression: The Midterm Election Story that Doesn’t Fit the Media Narrative | The Nation
Voter Suppression: The Midterm Election Story that Doesn’t Fit the Media Narrative | The Nation
"You can, however, hear Wendy Weiser, director of the Democracy Program at the Brennan Center, explain more about just how the votes came down,"
"You can, however, hear Wendy Weiser, director of the Democracy Program at the Brennan Center, explain more about just how the votes came down,"
We Just Witnessed One of the Saddest Days for Democracy We’ve Seen in Decades
We Just Witnessed One of the Saddest Days for Democracy We’ve Seen in Decades
"all I’ve seen or heard from many conservatives is how this election was a “clear message from the American people” and that “it showed just how powerful democracy can be.” That’s all bull****.
This election was one of the saddest days for democracy in quite some time. Not because Republicans won so many elections, but because voter turnout was abysmal. Take this chart, for example, that shows we just had the lowest voter turnout this election than during any other midterm election year since 1982 (that’s as far back as the chart goes). Not just that, but turnout was down in 40 states. Even a survey done by Gallup showed that voter interest this year, especially with those classifying themselves as independents, was drastically down from previous years. In fact, when it came to independent voters, only 41 percent said they were definitely going to vote. That’s down from 60 percent in 2010."
"all I’ve seen or heard from many conservatives is how this election was a “clear message from the American people” and that “it showed just how powerful democracy can be.” That’s all bull****.
This election was one of the saddest days for democracy in quite some time. Not because Republicans won so many elections, but because voter turnout was abysmal. Take this chart, for example, that shows we just had the lowest voter turnout this election than during any other midterm election year since 1982 (that’s as far back as the chart goes). Not just that, but turnout was down in 40 states. Even a survey done by Gallup showed that voter interest this year, especially with those classifying themselves as independents, was drastically down from previous years. In fact, when it came to independent voters, only 41 percent said they were definitely going to vote. That’s down from 60 percent in 2010."
ALEC Pols Moving Up in 2014 Midterms
ALEC Pols Moving Up in 2014 Midterms
"ALEC board member Thom Tillis (R-98) engaged in a race against incumbent U.S. Senator Kay Hagan (D) that broke records for money in politics. The Koch brothers' new Super PAC, Freedom Partners Action Fund (FPAF) made a huge seven-figure ad buy attacking Hagan in the final weeks of the race that pushed it over the top, making it the all-time number one Senate race in outside spending"
"ALEC board member Thom Tillis (R-98) engaged in a race against incumbent U.S. Senator Kay Hagan (D) that broke records for money in politics. The Koch brothers' new Super PAC, Freedom Partners Action Fund (FPAF) made a huge seven-figure ad buy attacking Hagan in the final weeks of the race that pushed it over the top, making it the all-time number one Senate race in outside spending"
Friday, November 7, 2014
US Corporations Top List of Those Living in 'Magical Fairyland' of Tax-Dodging
US Corporations Top List of Those Living in 'Magical Fairyland' of Tax-Dodging
"More than 300 global corporations and financial institutions—including well-known names like Pepsi Co., FedEx, JP Morgan Chase, and Amazon—have created complex tax avoidance schemes using the small European nation of Luxembourg to funnel billions of dollars of profits away from the countries where they actually do business, according to leaked documents obtained and analyzed by the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists."
"More than 300 global corporations and financial institutions—including well-known names like Pepsi Co., FedEx, JP Morgan Chase, and Amazon—have created complex tax avoidance schemes using the small European nation of Luxembourg to funnel billions of dollars of profits away from the countries where they actually do business, according to leaked documents obtained and analyzed by the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists."
Thursday, November 6, 2014
Banks Urge Investors To Buy For-Profit College Stocks Now That The GOP Is Taking Back Congress
http://thinkprogress.org/education/2014/11/06/3589728/gop-election-for-profit-colleges/
"The companies that operate these high-cost, low-value degree-granting institutions are immensely profitable, spend a billion dollars more on recruiting than on educating annually, and reward their executive officers with massive pay packages. In many cases, these companies get 90 percent of their income from federal student loan dollars"
"The companies that operate these high-cost, low-value degree-granting institutions are immensely profitable, spend a billion dollars more on recruiting than on educating annually, and reward their executive officers with massive pay packages. In many cases, these companies get 90 percent of their income from federal student loan dollars"
The Real Winner in This Election Was the Stealth Oligarchy
http://www.alternet.org/election-2014/real-winner-election-was-stealth-oligarchy
"the big winners on Tuesday were a group that actually campaigned anonymously, not even whispering their names to the voters.
Indeed, these were not the candidates listed on your ballot, but shadow candidates that are not even people. They are corporations that have been empowered by the Frankenstein-majority on our Supreme Court to exercise the political rights of us real human-type persons. Only they've been endowed with far more political power than you and me, for the Court decreed that these corporate "persons" can spend unlimited amounts of their shareholders' money on TV ads and other campaign tools to elect or defeat whomever they choose - without disclosing their names to voters.
What we have here is the rise of a stealth oligarchy in America. These politically shy corporations are pumping untold millions of dollars out of their practically bottomless corporate treasuries to elect Congress-critters, governors and ultimately presidents who will serve their narrow special interests at the expense of the public interest. You would know these cagey corporate campaigners, for they are major brand names from Big Oil, Big Food, Big Pharma, etc."
"the big winners on Tuesday were a group that actually campaigned anonymously, not even whispering their names to the voters.
Indeed, these were not the candidates listed on your ballot, but shadow candidates that are not even people. They are corporations that have been empowered by the Frankenstein-majority on our Supreme Court to exercise the political rights of us real human-type persons. Only they've been endowed with far more political power than you and me, for the Court decreed that these corporate "persons" can spend unlimited amounts of their shareholders' money on TV ads and other campaign tools to elect or defeat whomever they choose - without disclosing their names to voters.
What we have here is the rise of a stealth oligarchy in America. These politically shy corporations are pumping untold millions of dollars out of their practically bottomless corporate treasuries to elect Congress-critters, governors and ultimately presidents who will serve their narrow special interests at the expense of the public interest. You would know these cagey corporate campaigners, for they are major brand names from Big Oil, Big Food, Big Pharma, etc."
Citizens United boss: Supreme Court ruling handed midterm elections to Republicans
Citizens United boss: Supreme Court ruling handed midterm elections to Republicans
"Bossie said this so-called “dark money” was crucial to Republicans gaining control of the U.S. Senate and strengthening their grip on the U.S. House of Representatives."
"Bossie said this so-called “dark money” was crucial to Republicans gaining control of the U.S. Senate and strengthening their grip on the U.S. House of Representatives."
Reality Check for Democrats: Republicans Sell Lies Better Than You Tell the Truth
Reality Check for Democrats: Republicans Sell Lies Better Than You Tell the Truth
"Then there’s “Obamacare.” When you list everything that the law does (ends discrimination against pre-existing conditions, more comprehensive coverage, subsidies for lower-income Americans, children able to stay on their parent’s insurance longer, Medicaid expansion) most Americans overwhelmingly approve of all of that. That is, until you call it “Obamacare.” Then suddenly it’s “evil socialism that has to go.” See, Republicans have spent so much time lying about the law and conditioning people to “reject Obamacare” that many Americans aren’t even able to think for themselves anymore. It’s like Pavlov’s dog that salivated upon hearing a bell. When these anti-Obama people hear the term “Obamacare” their brains shut down and they just repeat back whatever it is they’ve been told. Even if they’re someone who’s benefitting from the law.
Kentucky is a great example of this idiocy. I kid you not, during one of McConnell’s debates he literally said that he wanted to keep Kentucky’s health care marketplace, Kynect - but fully repeal the law nationally. Without “Obamacare” there is no Kynect. And why, if the law is so terrible, would you want to keep it in your state? Oh, I know why, because it’s been successful. Same goes in Arkansas, a state that saw their uninsured rate drop by half, that just elected a new Senator who wants to repeal the law. And through all these years of talking poorly about the Affordable Care Act, and how this should be a state issue, has a single Republican-controlled state passed any kind of health care reform to counter the ACA? Of course not. So, if it’s a state issue, why aren’t states trying to fix our broken health care system? Right now millions of Texans don’t have health insurance. Has the Republican-controlled state legislature done anything about that? Of course not. And they won’t."
"Then there’s “Obamacare.” When you list everything that the law does (ends discrimination against pre-existing conditions, more comprehensive coverage, subsidies for lower-income Americans, children able to stay on their parent’s insurance longer, Medicaid expansion) most Americans overwhelmingly approve of all of that. That is, until you call it “Obamacare.” Then suddenly it’s “evil socialism that has to go.” See, Republicans have spent so much time lying about the law and conditioning people to “reject Obamacare” that many Americans aren’t even able to think for themselves anymore. It’s like Pavlov’s dog that salivated upon hearing a bell. When these anti-Obama people hear the term “Obamacare” their brains shut down and they just repeat back whatever it is they’ve been told. Even if they’re someone who’s benefitting from the law.
Kentucky is a great example of this idiocy. I kid you not, during one of McConnell’s debates he literally said that he wanted to keep Kentucky’s health care marketplace, Kynect - but fully repeal the law nationally. Without “Obamacare” there is no Kynect. And why, if the law is so terrible, would you want to keep it in your state? Oh, I know why, because it’s been successful. Same goes in Arkansas, a state that saw their uninsured rate drop by half, that just elected a new Senator who wants to repeal the law. And through all these years of talking poorly about the Affordable Care Act, and how this should be a state issue, has a single Republican-controlled state passed any kind of health care reform to counter the ACA? Of course not. So, if it’s a state issue, why aren’t states trying to fix our broken health care system? Right now millions of Texans don’t have health insurance. Has the Republican-controlled state legislature done anything about that? Of course not. And they won’t."
'We Will Only Get Louder': Dozens of Communities Vote to Boot Big Money from Politics
'We Will Only Get Louder': Dozens of Communities Vote to Boot Big Money from Politics
"Citizens in dozens of communities voted overwhelmingly on Tuesday for their legislators to pass a constitutional amendment to overturn the U.S. Supreme Court’s Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission decision, which opened the door for the super-rich and corporations to trample democracy.
As they headed to the polls to vote in what turned out to be the most expensive midterm election in history—one in which outside money from undisclosed sources played an outsized role and the number of small individual donors shrank—voters across the country made clear their desire to end corporate personhood and get big money out of politics."
"Citizens in dozens of communities voted overwhelmingly on Tuesday for their legislators to pass a constitutional amendment to overturn the U.S. Supreme Court’s Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission decision, which opened the door for the super-rich and corporations to trample democracy.
As they headed to the polls to vote in what turned out to be the most expensive midterm election in history—one in which outside money from undisclosed sources played an outsized role and the number of small individual donors shrank—voters across the country made clear their desire to end corporate personhood and get big money out of politics."
Democratic Candidates May Have Lost, But Democratic Issues Won
http://www.alternet.org/news-amp-politics/democratic-candidates-may-have-lost-democratic-issues-won
"The vote in Colorado offers a good example of the disparity between how Americans vote on candidates and how we vote on issues. A few years ago the Colorado legislature stripped cities and counties of the right to build their own telecommunications networks but allowed them to reclaim that authority if they put it to a vote of their citizens. On Tuesday, eight cities and counties did just that. Residents in every community voted by a very wide margin to permit government owned networks even while they were voting by an equally wide margin for Republican candidates who vigorously oppose government ownership of anything."
"The vote in Colorado offers a good example of the disparity between how Americans vote on candidates and how we vote on issues. A few years ago the Colorado legislature stripped cities and counties of the right to build their own telecommunications networks but allowed them to reclaim that authority if they put it to a vote of their citizens. On Tuesday, eight cities and counties did just that. Residents in every community voted by a very wide margin to permit government owned networks even while they were voting by an equally wide margin for Republican candidates who vigorously oppose government ownership of anything."
5 Facts About How America Is Rigged for a Massive Wealth Transfer to the Rich
http://www.alternet.org/economy/5-facts-about-how-america-rigged-massive-wealth-transfer-rich
"Each Year Since the Recession, America's Richest 1% Have Made More Than the Cost of All U.S. Social Programs
In effect, a reverse transfer from the poor to the rich. Even as conservatives blame Social Security for being too costly.
Much of the 1% wealth just sits there, accumulating more wealth. The numbers are nearly unfathomable. Depending on the estimate, the 1% took in anywhere from $2.3 trillion to $5.7 trillion per year. (All numeric analysis is detailed here.)
Even the smaller estimate of $2.3 trillion per year is more than the budget for Social Security ($860 billion), Medicare ($524 billion), Medicaid ($304 billion), and the entire safety net ($286 billion for SNAP, WIC [Women, Infants, Children], Child Nutrition, Earned Income Tax Credit, Supplemental Security Income, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, and Housing)."
"Each Year Since the Recession, America's Richest 1% Have Made More Than the Cost of All U.S. Social Programs
In effect, a reverse transfer from the poor to the rich. Even as conservatives blame Social Security for being too costly.
Much of the 1% wealth just sits there, accumulating more wealth. The numbers are nearly unfathomable. Depending on the estimate, the 1% took in anywhere from $2.3 trillion to $5.7 trillion per year. (All numeric analysis is detailed here.)
Even the smaller estimate of $2.3 trillion per year is more than the budget for Social Security ($860 billion), Medicare ($524 billion), Medicaid ($304 billion), and the entire safety net ($286 billion for SNAP, WIC [Women, Infants, Children], Child Nutrition, Earned Income Tax Credit, Supplemental Security Income, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, and Housing)."
Welcome To The United Slaves Of Amerikoch
Welcome To The United Slaves Of Amerikoch
"Honestly, what can be said for a people who, for the most part voted in favor of progressive issues but elected candidates that would never allow any of those measures to pass? They are the slaves of the Koch brothers, the John Birch Society magnates who embody the most destructive interests for America's majority.
Slave labor wages, more pollution , more fracking, more restrictions on a woman's right to choose and more private prisons are just some of the horrible causes the Kochs put their billions of dollars behind."
"Honestly, what can be said for a people who, for the most part voted in favor of progressive issues but elected candidates that would never allow any of those measures to pass? They are the slaves of the Koch brothers, the John Birch Society magnates who embody the most destructive interests for America's majority.
Slave labor wages, more pollution , more fracking, more restrictions on a woman's right to choose and more private prisons are just some of the horrible causes the Kochs put their billions of dollars behind."
Backfire: Republican Rhetoric in 2014 Will Be an Albatross for 2016
https://www.americanprogressaction.org/issues/general/report/2014/11/03/100149/backfire/
"Rather than trying to broaden their base and appeal to a growing and changing electorate, Republican candidates and allied groups have doubled down on narrow, unpopular positions at the expense of their long-term success. The demographic makeup of the United States is shifting to include more of the very voters whom the Republicans have alienated during this cycle."
"Rather than trying to broaden their base and appeal to a growing and changing electorate, Republican candidates and allied groups have doubled down on narrow, unpopular positions at the expense of their long-term success. The demographic makeup of the United States is shifting to include more of the very voters whom the Republicans have alienated during this cycle."
Chuck Todd Forgets About The Real Republican Agenda
Chuck Todd Forgets About The Real Republican Agenda
"Now that two of the three branches of government (Legislative and Judicial) are in the hands of people who don't particularly believe in government, let's just sit back and not create any controversy. Let's all behave like good little minions and let the extremist science-denying lunatics take over. We wouldn't want to upset our corporate masters, right Chuck?"
"Now that two of the three branches of government (Legislative and Judicial) are in the hands of people who don't particularly believe in government, let's just sit back and not create any controversy. Let's all behave like good little minions and let the extremist science-denying lunatics take over. We wouldn't want to upset our corporate masters, right Chuck?"
Meet The Newest Wave Of Tea Party Congressmen
http://thinkprogress.org/election/2014/11/05/3589301/craziest-congressmen-leaving-and-coming/
"REP. BARBARA COMSTOCK (R-VA) – As if the Koch Brothers didn’t have enough influence over American politics already, they now have one of their own former lobbyists in the halls of Congress. (Comstock has also lobbied for the military contractor Blackwater and the private prison giant GEO Group.)"
"REP. BARBARA COMSTOCK (R-VA) – As if the Koch Brothers didn’t have enough influence over American politics already, they now have one of their own former lobbyists in the halls of Congress. (Comstock has also lobbied for the military contractor Blackwater and the private prison giant GEO Group.)"
How The Cooperative Corporate Media Collaborators Shaped Yesterday's Outcome
How The Cooperative Corporate Media Collaborators Shaped Yesterday's Outcome
"Little Luke was practically chortling at how clever Republicans were for shutting down any discussion about Ernst's worrisome and extreme positions, instead repackaging her as a nice, normal, Iowa housewife."
"Little Luke was practically chortling at how clever Republicans were for shutting down any discussion about Ernst's worrisome and extreme positions, instead repackaging her as a nice, normal, Iowa housewife."
Last Night, One Million Workers Were Guaranteed The Right To Take Time Off When They’re Sick
http://thinkprogress.org/economy/2014/11/05/3589146/sick-leave-election-2014/
"Last night, four places in the United States voted over whether or not employers should be required to give paid sick leave to employees. All four approved the idea."
"Last night, four places in the United States voted over whether or not employers should be required to give paid sick leave to employees. All four approved the idea."
Civil Rights Pioneer: America's Discriminatory Election Landscape Worst in 50 Years
http://www.alternet.org/election-2014/civil-rights-pioneer-americas-discriminatory-election-landscape-worst-50-years
"This is the predictable outcome in the first major election since the Supreme Court’s decision in Shelby County v. Holder last year, when a bare majority chose to gut critical pieces of the Voting Rights Act. This rendered inoperable the pre-clearance system [of the Justice Department approving or blocking changes in state laws] that had worked for half a century to protect voters from discrimination before it could take effect."
"This is the predictable outcome in the first major election since the Supreme Court’s decision in Shelby County v. Holder last year, when a bare majority chose to gut critical pieces of the Voting Rights Act. This rendered inoperable the pre-clearance system [of the Justice Department approving or blocking changes in state laws] that had worked for half a century to protect voters from discrimination before it could take effect."
The Sneaky Ways Employers Are Stealing Our Wages
http://www.alternet.org/labor/sneaky-ways-employers-are-stealing-our-wages
"How much is $50 billion in wage theft? It's almost four times greater than the $13.6 billion reported by the FBI for the total costs of all stolen cars, other larcenies, burglaries and robberies in 2012. Fifty billion a year is enough to cover the wage bill for over 1.2 million jobs that pay $20 an hour."
"How much is $50 billion in wage theft? It's almost four times greater than the $13.6 billion reported by the FBI for the total costs of all stolen cars, other larcenies, burglaries and robberies in 2012. Fifty billion a year is enough to cover the wage bill for over 1.2 million jobs that pay $20 an hour."
Tuesday, November 4, 2014
Five Terrifying Right-Wing Extremists Who Head To Congress If You Don't Vote
Five Terrifying Right-Wing Extremists Who Head To Congress If You Don't Vote
"He wants to abolish the minimum wage and attempted to pass legislation that would have cut unemployment benefits so severely that the state would have become ineligible for federal compensation." Vote!!!
"He wants to abolish the minimum wage and attempted to pass legislation that would have cut unemployment benefits so severely that the state would have become ineligible for federal compensation." Vote!!!
Don’t Believe the Hype, Get out and Vote
http://quietmike.org/2014/11/04/dont-believe-hype-get-out-and-vote/
"How would you feel if your State became the next Kansas and you had done nothing to prevent it?" Vote!!!!
"How would you feel if your State became the next Kansas and you had done nothing to prevent it?" Vote!!!!
Social Security Kept 27 Million Americans Out of Poverty in 2013 | Economic Policy Institute
Social Security Kept 27 Million Americans Out of Poverty in 2013 | Economic Policy Institute
"Social Security is, by far, the most effective anti-poverty program in the United States. Without Social Security, an additional 8.6 percent of Americans, or nearly 27 million, would fall below the SPM poverty threshold."
"Social Security is, by far, the most effective anti-poverty program in the United States. Without Social Security, an additional 8.6 percent of Americans, or nearly 27 million, would fall below the SPM poverty threshold."
Why Tonight Is Not Just About Senate Control | The Nation
Why Tonight Is Not Just About Senate Control | The Nation
"the Senate competition is not all that matters. The signals from those contests for control of the statehouses—and the even more direct signals from referendums on minimum wage and paid sick leave referendums—will matter, as well."
"the Senate competition is not all that matters. The signals from those contests for control of the statehouses—and the even more direct signals from referendums on minimum wage and paid sick leave referendums—will matter, as well."
What Happens Today in These 4 Races Could Help Determine Our Next President
http://www.motherjones.com/politics/2014/11/secretary-of-state-colorado-iowa-nevada-iowa-husted
"the consequences of these four secretary of state races could mean the difference between smooth, snafu-free elections in November 2016 and the type of debacles seen in Florida in 2000 and Ohio in 2004."
"the consequences of these four secretary of state races could mean the difference between smooth, snafu-free elections in November 2016 and the type of debacles seen in Florida in 2000 and Ohio in 2004."
Here Are the U.S. States Where the Working Poor Are the Most Screwed
https://www.vocativ.com/interactive/usa/us-politics/minimum-wage-state-by-state/
"On Tuesday, five states—Arkansas, Illinois, Alaska, Nebraska and South Dakota—will vote on a bump in the minimum wage of between $1.25 and $2.25."
"On Tuesday, five states—Arkansas, Illinois, Alaska, Nebraska and South Dakota—will vote on a bump in the minimum wage of between $1.25 and $2.25."
Minimum wage popularity is a reminder: Organize, organize, organize
http://www.dailykos.com/story/2014/11/04/1341618/-Minimum-wage-popularity-is-a-reminder-Organize-organize-organize
"Unfortunately, we see that a lot. We see a personhood measure likely to be defeated in Colorado while personhood-supporting candidates like Cory Gardner and Joni Ernst lead in the polls in Colorado and Iowa. Sure, they have to dip and dodge so voters aren't aware of their personhood support, but too often they manage. Similarly with the minimum wage—Republicans in close races may be forced to walk back their opposition to raising the minimum wage or even having a minimum wage at all, but all too often their walk-backs succeed."
"Unfortunately, we see that a lot. We see a personhood measure likely to be defeated in Colorado while personhood-supporting candidates like Cory Gardner and Joni Ernst lead in the polls in Colorado and Iowa. Sure, they have to dip and dodge so voters aren't aware of their personhood support, but too often they manage. Similarly with the minimum wage—Republicans in close races may be forced to walk back their opposition to raising the minimum wage or even having a minimum wage at all, but all too often their walk-backs succeed."
GOP Chair Won’t Take Impeachment Off the Table Because It’s Totally On The Table
GOP Chair Won’t Take Impeachment Off the Table Because It’s Totally On The Table
"Hey, remember a few months ago, when the media tried desperately to convince you that all that Republican talk of impeachment was all in the Democrats’ heads?" Go Vote!
"Hey, remember a few months ago, when the media tried desperately to convince you that all that Republican talk of impeachment was all in the Democrats’ heads?" Go Vote!
If They Win, Republicans Plan To Serve Impeachment With Side Of Nativism
If They Win, Republicans Plan To Serve Impeachment With Side Of Nativism
"Let's hope they're all crying in their Alka-Seltzer on Wednesday when the supposed control doesn't materialize. Otherwise, we're all going to get a good long look at the wingnut parade as they undertake what could possibly be the most unconstitutional impeachment action in the history of the country.
Alternatively, you could go make GOTV calls into key states. Daily Kos and MoveOn.org need volunteers." Vote!!
"Let's hope they're all crying in their Alka-Seltzer on Wednesday when the supposed control doesn't materialize. Otherwise, we're all going to get a good long look at the wingnut parade as they undertake what could possibly be the most unconstitutional impeachment action in the history of the country.
Alternatively, you could go make GOTV calls into key states. Daily Kos and MoveOn.org need volunteers." Vote!!
8 Craziest Candidates Who Might Actually Win
http://www.alternet.org/8-craziest-candidates-might-actually-win
"On Tuesday, tens of millions of Americans will brave long lines and various forms of precipitation to elect the public servants that best represent their democratic values. For better or for worse. Here's a quick guide to the candidates we can't believe might actually win—whether because of legal troubles, crushing hypocrisy, basic math, or some combination thereof."
"On Tuesday, tens of millions of Americans will brave long lines and various forms of precipitation to elect the public servants that best represent their democratic values. For better or for worse. Here's a quick guide to the candidates we can't believe might actually win—whether because of legal troubles, crushing hypocrisy, basic math, or some combination thereof."
Will a Neo-Confederate Theocrat Be the New Republican Councilman in One of Richest U.S. Counties?
Will a Neo-Confederate Theocrat Be the New Republican Councilman in One of Richest U.S. Counties?
"On November 4, 2011, standing on a small stage with Bible verses splashed on the background behind him, Michael Peroutka told a small audience attending his lecture that “when you see and hear folks describe the earth as millions of years old, you know that they are either willfully anti-American, or they are ignorant of their own heritage and history. What I am saying is that the promotion of evolution is an act of disloyalty to America.”
Three years later, on November 4, 2014, Michael Peroutka is standing for election as a Republican candidate for the county council of a sedate Maryland suburb in the orbit of the nation’s capital."
"On November 4, 2011, standing on a small stage with Bible verses splashed on the background behind him, Michael Peroutka told a small audience attending his lecture that “when you see and hear folks describe the earth as millions of years old, you know that they are either willfully anti-American, or they are ignorant of their own heritage and history. What I am saying is that the promotion of evolution is an act of disloyalty to America.”
Three years later, on November 4, 2014, Michael Peroutka is standing for election as a Republican candidate for the county council of a sedate Maryland suburb in the orbit of the nation’s capital."
Who Else Is in the Koch Brothers Billionaire Donor Club? | The Nation
Who Else Is in the Koch Brothers Billionaire Donor Club? | The Nation
"Hiding the shadow of their bigger-name brothers is a group of fellow travelers, tied to one another by their large donations aimed at pushing forward a business-friendly agenda, including rolling back labor and environmental regulations. But the many of the members of this network share something else with the Kansas-based billionaire brothers: they have pursued business ventures that target low-income communities as customers and employees, essentially profiting off poverty."
"Hiding the shadow of their bigger-name brothers is a group of fellow travelers, tied to one another by their large donations aimed at pushing forward a business-friendly agenda, including rolling back labor and environmental regulations. But the many of the members of this network share something else with the Kansas-based billionaire brothers: they have pursued business ventures that target low-income communities as customers and employees, essentially profiting off poverty."
Monday, November 3, 2014
The Koch 130
http://www.motherjones.com/politics/2014/11/koch-brothers-web-influence
"How the billionaire brothers have spread their web of influence across every sector of American society."
"How the billionaire brothers have spread their web of influence across every sector of American society."
On Election Eve, Deep-Pocket Dark Money Bulldozing Democracy
On Election Eve, Deep-Pocket Dark Money Bulldozing Democracy
"In the final days of the midterm campaign, shadowy outside groups that wield heavy influence but don't disclose their donors are spending tens of millions of dollars on attack ads, mailers, and negative automated telephone calls aimed at tipping the balance in tight races across the nation."
"In the final days of the midterm campaign, shadowy outside groups that wield heavy influence but don't disclose their donors are spending tens of millions of dollars on attack ads, mailers, and negative automated telephone calls aimed at tipping the balance in tight races across the nation."
The right tries to buy a judge: Why the Kochs are throwing cash at a state judicial race
The right tries to buy a judge: Why the Kochs are throwing cash at a state judicial race
"VanDyke has wealthy corporate backers who have figured out that for a pittance — less than a million bucks — they can install a friendly justice to preside over cases in which they have an interest."
"VanDyke has wealthy corporate backers who have figured out that for a pittance — less than a million bucks — they can install a friendly justice to preside over cases in which they have an interest."
Bernie Sanders: The Real News Story They Won't Discuss Is, Why Are People Working Longer Hours For Less Pay?
Bernie Sanders: The Real News Story They Won't Discuss Is, Why Are People Working Longer Hours For Less Pay?
"And this issue of income and wealth inequality, wow. One percent owning 37 percent of the wealth in America. Bottom 60 percent owning 1.7 percent. One family, the Walton family of Wal-Mart, owning more wealth than the bottom 40 percent. Do you think we should be talking about that issue? You can’t get the discussion going on TV."
"And this issue of income and wealth inequality, wow. One percent owning 37 percent of the wealth in America. Bottom 60 percent owning 1.7 percent. One family, the Walton family of Wal-Mart, owning more wealth than the bottom 40 percent. Do you think we should be talking about that issue? You can’t get the discussion going on TV."
Stealing Election 2014: NC Voting Machines Flipped Votes For Democrats To Republicans
Stealing Election 2014: NC Voting Machines Flipped Votes For Democrats To Republicans
"More reports are rolling in of votes being "flipped" from Democratic candidates to Republicans to the other on electronic voting machines."
"More reports are rolling in of votes being "flipped" from Democratic candidates to Republicans to the other on electronic voting machines."
Sunday, November 2, 2014
If These Videos Don’t Convince You to Vote, Nothing Will | The Nation
If These Videos Don’t Convince You to Vote, Nothing Will | The Nation
"The spectrum of allowable electoral choices in this country could hardly be more limited and uninspiring. It’s hard to get excited about many candidates we have to choose from this Tuesday. But the only alternative to voting is not voting. And that’s an even worse option."
"The spectrum of allowable electoral choices in this country could hardly be more limited and uninspiring. It’s hard to get excited about many candidates we have to choose from this Tuesday. But the only alternative to voting is not voting. And that’s an even worse option."
Did Mitch McConnell Fail to Disclose His Trip to the Koch Donor Conference? | The Nation
Did Mitch McConnell Fail to Disclose His Trip to the Koch Donor Conference? | The Nation
"Mitch McConnell traveled to a secret meeting of donors connected to the Koch brothers network—and it now appears he didn’t disclose the expenses for that trip."
"Mitch McConnell traveled to a secret meeting of donors connected to the Koch brothers network—and it now appears he didn’t disclose the expenses for that trip."
Mitch McConnell’s Freighted Ties to a Shadowy Shipping Company | The Nation
Mitch McConnell’s Freighted Ties to a Shadowy Shipping Company | The Nation
"The seizure of the narcotics shipment in the Caribbean port occurred far away from Kentucky, the state in which Senator Mitch McConnell is now facing a career-defining election. But the Republican Senate minority leader has the closest of ties to the owner of the Ping May, the vessel containing the illicit materials: the Foremost Maritime Corporation, a firm founded and owned by McConnell’s in-laws, the Chao family."
"The seizure of the narcotics shipment in the Caribbean port occurred far away from Kentucky, the state in which Senator Mitch McConnell is now facing a career-defining election. But the Republican Senate minority leader has the closest of ties to the owner of the Ping May, the vessel containing the illicit materials: the Foremost Maritime Corporation, a firm founded and owned by McConnell’s in-laws, the Chao family."
Eric Cantor, Paul Ryan & Kevin McCarthy: Plot To Sabotage US Economy with Frank Luntz
http://www.dailykos.com/story/2012/06/08/1098434/-Eric-Cantor-Paul-Ryan-Kevin-McCarthy-Plot-To-Sabotage-US-Economy-with-Frank-Luntz
Remember the Caucus Room meeting?
"During the four hour meeting:
The senior GOP members plotted to bring Congress to a standstill regardless how much it would hurt the American Economy by pledging to obstruct and block President Obama on all legislation.
These Republican members of Congress were not simply airing their complaints regarding the other party's political platform for four long hours. No, these Republican Congressional Policymakers, who were elected to do 'the People's work' were literally plotting to sabotage, undermine and destroy the U.S. Economy." (Reposted)
Remember the Caucus Room meeting?
"During the four hour meeting:
The senior GOP members plotted to bring Congress to a standstill regardless how much it would hurt the American Economy by pledging to obstruct and block President Obama on all legislation.
These Republican members of Congress were not simply airing their complaints regarding the other party's political platform for four long hours. No, these Republican Congressional Policymakers, who were elected to do 'the People's work' were literally plotting to sabotage, undermine and destroy the U.S. Economy." (Reposted)
Shocking Mitch McConnell Mailer Suggests Kentucky Voters Involved in ‘Election Fraud’
Shocking Mitch McConnell Mailer Suggests Kentucky Voters Involved in ‘Election Fraud’
"Republicans want as few Americans as possible to show up to the polls this year. They know when fewer people vote, the better it is for the GOP. And it’s like I’ve said numerous times, any party or politician who’s trying to make it more difficult to vote or discourage Americans from voting clearly has some kind of unethical ulterior motive."
"Republicans want as few Americans as possible to show up to the polls this year. They know when fewer people vote, the better it is for the GOP. And it’s like I’ve said numerous times, any party or politician who’s trying to make it more difficult to vote or discourage Americans from voting clearly has some kind of unethical ulterior motive."
Saturday, November 1, 2014
Mitch McConnell Sends Out Voter Intimidation Mailer, Prompting Democratic Challenger To File Suit
http://www.alternet.org/election-2014/mitch-mcconnell-sends-out-voter-intimidation-mailer-prompting-democratic-challenger
"The Kentucky Republican mailer is as good an example as any of the modern face of voter suppression--and underscores that McConnell is in a very close race and voter turnout may tip the balance against him."
"The Kentucky Republican mailer is as good an example as any of the modern face of voter suppression--and underscores that McConnell is in a very close race and voter turnout may tip the balance against him."
Election Day Reality: The Republicans Have Got Nothing, and They Know It
http://www.politicususa.com/2014/11/01/election-day-reality-republicans-nothing.html
"Underneath it all, the truth is there to see: if the Republicans had something – anything – they would not be so eager to stop people from voting. But they have nothing and they know it, and they know we know it, which leaves them no choice but to let only those whose votes they can trust – white Evangelicals – retain the voting franchise. The rest of Americans? Well, they can go the way of the 47 percent."
"Underneath it all, the truth is there to see: if the Republicans had something – anything – they would not be so eager to stop people from voting. But they have nothing and they know it, and they know we know it, which leaves them no choice but to let only those whose votes they can trust – white Evangelicals – retain the voting franchise. The rest of Americans? Well, they can go the way of the 47 percent."
10 Lies Republicans Love To Use To Terrify Americans
10 Lies Republicans Love To Use To Terrify Americans
"nearly the entire Republican party platform is built upon blatant misinformation and lies. And the worst part is, millions of Americans actually believe this nonsense."
"nearly the entire Republican party platform is built upon blatant misinformation and lies. And the worst part is, millions of Americans actually believe this nonsense."
10 insane, fear-mongering GOP lies this election cycle
10 insane, fear-mongering GOP lies this election cycle
"Halloween has come and gone, but the Republican Party is offering up its own scares, pulling out its worst scaremongering tactics to try to use fear to get voters to the polls for their candidates."
"Halloween has come and gone, but the Republican Party is offering up its own scares, pulling out its worst scaremongering tactics to try to use fear to get voters to the polls for their candidates."
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