PERRspectives: GOP Always Feared Obamacare's Success, Not Its Failure
"With sign-ups for private insurance nearing 7 million on the final days of open enrollment for Obamacare, Republicans are once again trying to unskew the polls. While Wyoming Senator John Barrasso accused the White House of "cooking the books," Ted Cruz (R-TX) pretended the number of uninsured Americans is actually rising.
Sadly, this conservative whimpering doesn't mean the GOP's all-out war on the Affordable Care Act is over. The avalanche of court challenges continues. The 50-plus repeal votes will continue to grow. The conservative misinformation campaign about mythical "death panels" and a bogus "government-takeover of health care" left millions of Americans fearful and confused--the uninsured most of all--about Obamacare. Thanks to the refusal of many Republican-led states to accept the ACA's Medicaid expansion, over 7 million red staters will needlessly remain uninsured--and thousands of them will needless die as a result. Many of the same GOP-dominated states are blocking the work of Obamacare "navigators," despite supporting the same federal outreach program for Medicare for over two decades."
Monday, March 31, 2014
Here’s The Exact Plan The Cheating GOP Is Using To Steal The 2014 Elections
Here’s The Exact Plan The Cheating GOP Is Using To Steal The 2014 Elections
"As uncompromising conservative candidates belittle people of color, immigrants, women and lower-class individuals, it’s no surprise that in the midst of self-mutilation, Republicans are obviously trying to alter the game with their selfish needs in mind – as always."
"As uncompromising conservative candidates belittle people of color, immigrants, women and lower-class individuals, it’s no surprise that in the midst of self-mutilation, Republicans are obviously trying to alter the game with their selfish needs in mind – as always."
Christie, Walker, Kasich, Bush: Sheldon Adelson's Toadies
Christie, Walker, Kasich, Bush: Sheldon Adelson's Toadies
"The race for Billionaire Blessings is on! Top winner gets lots and lots of Billionaire Bucks to spend in the Great White House Auction of 2016, brought to you by the likes of Sheldon Adelson."
"The race for Billionaire Blessings is on! Top winner gets lots and lots of Billionaire Bucks to spend in the Great White House Auction of 2016, brought to you by the likes of Sheldon Adelson."
How to Vote Against the Koch Brothers | The Nation
How to Vote Against the Koch Brothers | The Nation
"The Koch Brothers don't actually run for office—at least not since David Koch's amusingly ambitious 1980 bid for the vice presidency on a Libertarian Party ticket that proposed the gutting of corporate taxes, the minimum wage, occupational health and safety oversight, environmental protections and Social Security.
That project, while exceptionally well-funded for a third-party campaign, secured just 1.06 percent of the vote. The Kochs determined it would be easier to fund conservative campaigns than to pitch the program openly. Initially, the project was hampered by what passed for campaign-finance rules and regulations, to the frustration of David Koch, who once told The New Yorker, "We'd like to abolish the Federal Elections Commission and all the limits on campaign spending anyway"."
"The Koch Brothers don't actually run for office—at least not since David Koch's amusingly ambitious 1980 bid for the vice presidency on a Libertarian Party ticket that proposed the gutting of corporate taxes, the minimum wage, occupational health and safety oversight, environmental protections and Social Security.
That project, while exceptionally well-funded for a third-party campaign, secured just 1.06 percent of the vote. The Kochs determined it would be easier to fund conservative campaigns than to pitch the program openly. Initially, the project was hampered by what passed for campaign-finance rules and regulations, to the frustration of David Koch, who once told The New Yorker, "We'd like to abolish the Federal Elections Commission and all the limits on campaign spending anyway"."
Sunday, March 30, 2014
Plutocracy without end: Why the 1 percent always defeats the middle class
Plutocracy without end: Why the 1 percent always defeats the middle class
"There are more of us than them. But income inequality keeps getting worse -- and there is sadly no end in sight"
"There are more of us than them. But income inequality keeps getting worse -- and there is sadly no end in sight"
In US GOP Runaway Voting Laws Gain Steam | Common Dreams
In US GOP Runaway Voting Laws Gain Steam | Common Dreams
"With mid-term elections fast approaching and the next presidential bid seemingly around the corner, Republican lawmakers around the country have ramped up efforts to restrict voting rules and regulations in ways that favor GOP voters and discriminate against those who traditionally vote democrat"
"With mid-term elections fast approaching and the next presidential bid seemingly around the corner, Republican lawmakers around the country have ramped up efforts to restrict voting rules and regulations in ways that favor GOP voters and discriminate against those who traditionally vote democrat"
The Shame of American Politics: GOP Presidential Hopefuls now Trek to Las Vegas seeking Adelson Blessing | Common Dreams
The Shame of American Politics: GOP Presidential Hopefuls now Trek to Las Vegas seeking Adelson Blessing | Common Dreams
"A series of pro-corporation Supreme Court decisions and the latter’s disingenuous equation of money with speech, including “Citizens United”, have turned the United States from a democracy to a plutocracy."
"A series of pro-corporation Supreme Court decisions and the latter’s disingenuous equation of money with speech, including “Citizens United”, have turned the United States from a democracy to a plutocracy."
Saturday, March 29, 2014
Ryan Unsuited To Lead ‘Adult Conversation’ About Poverty
Ryan Unsuited To Lead ‘Adult Conversation’ About Poverty
"The problem is that a prerequisite for any adult conversation is telling the truth and it is there the congressman falls monumentally short."
"The problem is that a prerequisite for any adult conversation is telling the truth and it is there the congressman falls monumentally short."
Why Dark Money Groups Refused Generous IRS Limits On Political Activity
Why Dark Money Groups Refused Generous IRS Limits On Political Activity
"This week saw House Republican leadership kill legislation to help Ukraine rather than accept an IRS investigation into dark money groups, thus putting party before country yet again on behalf of their billionaire sponsors. As Darrell Issa knows, it is great work if you can get it."
"This week saw House Republican leadership kill legislation to help Ukraine rather than accept an IRS investigation into dark money groups, thus putting party before country yet again on behalf of their billionaire sponsors. As Darrell Issa knows, it is great work if you can get it."
Friday, March 28, 2014
GOP Steps Up Attack on Early Voting in Key Swing States | The Nation
GOP Steps Up Attack on Early Voting in Key Swing States | The Nation
"The waits in Florida and Ohio were no accident, but rather the direct consequence of GOP efforts to curtail the number of days and hours that people had to vote."
"The waits in Florida and Ohio were no accident, but rather the direct consequence of GOP efforts to curtail the number of days and hours that people had to vote."
What's The Matter With Kansas? Austerity.
What's The Matter With Kansas? Austerity.
"Results in Kansas lay waste to the lie that cutting taxes increases prosperity."
"Results in Kansas lay waste to the lie that cutting taxes increases prosperity."
The Next Domino’s To Fall: Pizza Chain Will Pay A Half-Million Dollars Over Stolen Wages
www.thinkprogress.org/economy/2014/03/27/3419848/dominos-wage-theft-momentum/
"Drivers and pizza cooks will share a $448,000 payout from 23 Domino’s Pizza franchise owners around New York state under a settlement announced Thursday by Attorney General Eric Schneiderman."
"Drivers and pizza cooks will share a $448,000 payout from 23 Domino’s Pizza franchise owners around New York state under a settlement announced Thursday by Attorney General Eric Schneiderman."
Corporate Profits Hit A New Record High Last Year
www.thinkprogress.org/economy/2014/03/27/3420092/corporate-profits-record-2013/
"The profits have helped boost CEO pay: Among 50 public companies, they saw a 4.1 percent increase in pay at the median last year, netting $9.8 million at that mark. That’s after average CEO pay hit a record high in 2012.
But this wealth hasn’t trickled much further down. Despite the fact that workers have been increasing their productivity — helping to drive those corporate profits — they haven’t seen much of a reward."
"The profits have helped boost CEO pay: Among 50 public companies, they saw a 4.1 percent increase in pay at the median last year, netting $9.8 million at that mark. That’s after average CEO pay hit a record high in 2012.
But this wealth hasn’t trickled much further down. Despite the fact that workers have been increasing their productivity — helping to drive those corporate profits — they haven’t seen much of a reward."
Thursday, March 27, 2014
The Third-Largest Bank Isn’t Adequately Prepared For A Crisis
www.thinkprogress.org/economy/2014/03/27/3419581/citigroup-stress-test/
"It is the second such “stress test” that the megabank has failed in the past three years."
"It is the second such “stress test” that the megabank has failed in the past three years."
A Democrat-Sponsored Tax Cut Calls the GOP’s Anti-Poverty Bluff | The Nation
A Democrat-Sponsored Tax Cut Calls the GOP’s Anti-Poverty Bluff | The Nation
"For months now, as congressional Republicans have blocked repeated attempts to extend benefits to the long-term unemployed, as they’ve fought to deny low-income Americans access to health insurance, as they’ve advocated to cut tens of billions from the food stamp program, as they’ve resisted proposals to raise the minimum wage, they have simultaneously professed their commitment to American workers and the poor."
"For months now, as congressional Republicans have blocked repeated attempts to extend benefits to the long-term unemployed, as they’ve fought to deny low-income Americans access to health insurance, as they’ve advocated to cut tens of billions from the food stamp program, as they’ve resisted proposals to raise the minimum wage, they have simultaneously professed their commitment to American workers and the poor."
With Eyes on 2016, Walker Courts Sheldon Adelson Cash in Sin City
With Eyes on 2016, Walker Courts Sheldon Adelson Cash in Sin City
"Despite claims to be focused exclusively on this year's gubernatorial election, Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker and other GOP presidential hopefuls are jetting off to Las Vegas for an exclusive gathering with billionaire Republican donor Sheldon Adelson, who is reportedly assessing the field for 2016 after plowing $92 million into the 2012 presidential election cycle."
"Despite claims to be focused exclusively on this year's gubernatorial election, Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker and other GOP presidential hopefuls are jetting off to Las Vegas for an exclusive gathering with billionaire Republican donor Sheldon Adelson, who is reportedly assessing the field for 2016 after plowing $92 million into the 2012 presidential election cycle."
Fox Pundits Carp About Government Contractors Being Paid Prevailing Wage
Fox Pundits Carp About Government Contractors Being Paid Prevailing Wage
"Fox's Greta Van Susteren and the Washington Examiner's Luke Rosiak are very upset that government workers are being paid the prevailing wage for their area as opposed to poverty wages. It's a scandal everyone! The government is actually paying these workers a living wage. The horror!"
"Fox's Greta Van Susteren and the Washington Examiner's Luke Rosiak are very upset that government workers are being paid the prevailing wage for their area as opposed to poverty wages. It's a scandal everyone! The government is actually paying these workers a living wage. The horror!"
Wednesday, March 26, 2014
Walmart Admits: 'Our Profits' Depend on 'Their Poverty' | Common Dreams
Walmart Admits: 'Our Profits' Depend on 'Their Poverty' | Common Dreams
"Walmart, the nation's largest private employer, is notorious for paying poverty wages and coaching employees to take advantage of social programs. In many states, Walmart employees are the largest group of Medicaid recipients."
"Walmart, the nation's largest private employer, is notorious for paying poverty wages and coaching employees to take advantage of social programs. In many states, Walmart employees are the largest group of Medicaid recipients."
Billionaire's 'Break California' Measure Inches Closer To The Ballot
Billionaire's 'Break California' Measure Inches Closer To The Ballot
"Billionaire Tim Draper has almost got all of the signatures he needs for a ballot measure to break California, but that doesn't mean it will become reality."
"Billionaire Tim Draper has almost got all of the signatures he needs for a ballot measure to break California, but that doesn't mean it will become reality."
Another Financial Crisis Is Looming—Here's Why and How It Will Play Out
www.alternet.org/economy/another-financial-crisis-looming-heres-why-and-how-it-will-play-out
"Thanks to bank misconduct, odds are that big trouble is on its way."
"Thanks to bank misconduct, odds are that big trouble is on its way."
NY Fed Study: 'Too Big To Fail Banks' Profit on Taxpayers' Backs | Common Dreams
NY Fed Study: 'Too Big To Fail Banks' Profit on Taxpayers' Backs | Common Dreams
"Although not news to progressive critics of Wall Street, the Federal Reserve Bank of New York revealed research Tuesday that underscores why "too-big-to-fail" banks are bad for the economy.
A study focusing on the five largest banks—JPMorgan Chase, Citigroup, Bank of America, Wells Fargo and Goldman Sachs—found that these firms benefit from significant discounts on bond issues due to an assumption on the part of investors of government bailout protection."
"Although not news to progressive critics of Wall Street, the Federal Reserve Bank of New York revealed research Tuesday that underscores why "too-big-to-fail" banks are bad for the economy.
A study focusing on the five largest banks—JPMorgan Chase, Citigroup, Bank of America, Wells Fargo and Goldman Sachs—found that these firms benefit from significant discounts on bond issues due to an assumption on the part of investors of government bailout protection."
How Billionaire Bucks Secretly Convert To Campaign 'Walking Money'
How Billionaire Bucks Secretly Convert To Campaign 'Walking Money'
"And zero accountability to taxpayers, who picked up the tab for that nonprofit cash moving through dark streams into nowhere.
This is why wingers are working the refs so hard on the ginned-up IRS non-scandal. If the IRS were to actually doits job, they would never approve this organization as a 501c3 nonprofit that allows for deductible contributions because it served no charitable purpose.
These dark money organizations are shapeshifters and churned on a regular basis. The machine that fueled the 2010 Koch machine morphed into a different machine, with the first entity terminated. For 2014, Americans for Prosperity is taking the lead for now, but that will change after the primaries when new organizations will spring forth, undiscovered until sometime in the middle of 2016."
"And zero accountability to taxpayers, who picked up the tab for that nonprofit cash moving through dark streams into nowhere.
This is why wingers are working the refs so hard on the ginned-up IRS non-scandal. If the IRS were to actually doits job, they would never approve this organization as a 501c3 nonprofit that allows for deductible contributions because it served no charitable purpose.
These dark money organizations are shapeshifters and churned on a regular basis. The machine that fueled the 2010 Koch machine morphed into a different machine, with the first entity terminated. For 2014, Americans for Prosperity is taking the lead for now, but that will change after the primaries when new organizations will spring forth, undiscovered until sometime in the middle of 2016."
Tuesday, March 25, 2014
Hundreds of Students & Faculty Occupy Campus to Fight Cuts to Public Higher Ed | Common Dreams
Hundreds of Students & Faculty Occupy Campus to Fight Cuts to Public Higher Ed | Common Dreams
"University of Southern Maine student Meagan LaSala and professor Rachel Bouvier explain how cuts disproportionately target faculty and will trigger a decline in quality public eduction."
"University of Southern Maine student Meagan LaSala and professor Rachel Bouvier explain how cuts disproportionately target faculty and will trigger a decline in quality public eduction."
Our Plutocracy Problem
www.inthesetimes.com/article/16475/our_plutocracy_problem
"These days, there’s a much more direct process. One percenters and corporations can secretly buy politicians. Using front groups, the wealthy can “donate” unlimited millions to elect a candidate and remain completely anonymous."
"These days, there’s a much more direct process. One percenters and corporations can secretly buy politicians. Using front groups, the wealthy can “donate” unlimited millions to elect a candidate and remain completely anonymous."
Bernie Sanders Calls Out Ugly Class Warfare Being Waged By Republicans
Bernie Sanders Calls Out Ugly Class Warfare Being Waged By Republicans
"Bernie Sanders: What kind of nation are we when we give tax breaks to millionaires but we can’t take care of the elderly and the children?"
"Bernie Sanders: What kind of nation are we when we give tax breaks to millionaires but we can’t take care of the elderly and the children?"
When the Government Outsources to Private Companies, Inequality Gets Worse | Common Dreams
When the Government Outsources to Private Companies, Inequality Gets Worse | Common Dreams
"State and local officials nationwide are responding to budget crunches by siphoning off public services to private contractors — the classic “market-based solution” for a fiscal crisis. But on balance, the savings of these supposedly cost-saving outsourcing measures often turn out to be less than advertised."
"State and local officials nationwide are responding to budget crunches by siphoning off public services to private contractors — the classic “market-based solution” for a fiscal crisis. But on balance, the savings of these supposedly cost-saving outsourcing measures often turn out to be less than advertised."
Goldman Sachs' Outrageous Scheme to Profit off Jailed Young Offenders' Recidivism Rate
www.alternet.org/economy/goldman-sachs-outrageous-scheme-profit-jailed-young-offenders-recidivism-rate
"Too-big-to-jail Wall Street is ripping off taxpayers with a "social impact bond"."
"Too-big-to-jail Wall Street is ripping off taxpayers with a "social impact bond"."
Monday, March 24, 2014
New Lawsuit Alleges That Wells Fargo Has a Manual for Mass Fabrication of Foreclosure Documents
New Lawsuit Alleges That Wells Fargo Has a Manual for Mass Fabrication of Foreclosure Documents
"Catherine Curan of the New York Post has an important new story on a Federal lawsuit that looks to have unearthed a smoking gun about systematic document fabrication at Wells Fargo."
"Catherine Curan of the New York Post has an important new story on a Federal lawsuit that looks to have unearthed a smoking gun about systematic document fabrication at Wells Fargo."
Billionaire Bucks Winning Charter School Debate In New York
Billionaire Bucks Winning Charter School Debate In New York
"As long as the Billionaire Bucks pay for propaganda that convinces people they're really just good people trying to do good things for the little children of Harlem, they're in for the long haul.
I just wish one person would ask the folks in these ads whether or not they think the millions spent on the ads might have done a better work inside their schools."
"As long as the Billionaire Bucks pay for propaganda that convinces people they're really just good people trying to do good things for the little children of Harlem, they're in for the long haul.
I just wish one person would ask the folks in these ads whether or not they think the millions spent on the ads might have done a better work inside their schools."
Money, Money, Everywhere
www.inthesetimes.com/article/16430/money_money_everywhere
"$1,265,836,000,000.
This is the amount of cash that S&P 500 companies (excluding banks and other financial institutions) are currently sitting on. As of the beginning of the third quarter, the largest U.S. companies collectively held $1.27 trillion. That’s about 13.5 percent more than this time last year."
"$1,265,836,000,000.
This is the amount of cash that S&P 500 companies (excluding banks and other financial institutions) are currently sitting on. As of the beginning of the third quarter, the largest U.S. companies collectively held $1.27 trillion. That’s about 13.5 percent more than this time last year."
You call this a meritocracy? How rich inheritance is poisoning the American economy
You call this a meritocracy? How rich inheritance is poisoning the American economy
"No, your economic fortune isn't just based on work ethic and idea quality. It's also a gaping inheritance disparity"
"No, your economic fortune isn't just based on work ethic and idea quality. It's also a gaping inheritance disparity"
Saturday, March 22, 2014
How Corrupt Politicians Like Chris Christie Partner with Wall Street to Rip Off American Retirements
www.alternet.org/economy/how-corrupt-politicians-chris-christie-partner-wall-street-rip-american-retirements
"Wall Street loves to celebrate its knack for innovation, and it's hard to disagree. The ingenuity financiers have mustered to scam Americans out of their retirements is truly a wonder to behold."
"Wall Street loves to celebrate its knack for innovation, and it's hard to disagree. The ingenuity financiers have mustered to scam Americans out of their retirements is truly a wonder to behold."
FOX's Neil Cavuto Attacks Kristen Bell For Saying Rich People Can Afford Higher Taxes
FOX's Neil Cavuto Attacks Kristen Bell For Saying Rich People Can Afford Higher Taxes
"How dare rich people speak out about tax issues that don't fall in line with conservative thinking?"
"How dare rich people speak out about tax issues that don't fall in line with conservative thinking?"
Friday, March 21, 2014
Corporate Welfare and the Minimum Wage | Common Dreams
Corporate Welfare and the Minimum Wage | Common Dreams
"The majority of Americans including conservatives support an increase yet congress continues to drag its feet on doing right by the people they claim to serve. The conservative “pull-yourself up-by your-bootstraps” mentality has become an acceptable excuse to justify kicking people when they’re down. The greedy and elitist attitudes of CEO’s and bankers have created a culture of entitlement in this country in which stealing from others less powerful is the best way to get to the top regardless of the social cost."
"The majority of Americans including conservatives support an increase yet congress continues to drag its feet on doing right by the people they claim to serve. The conservative “pull-yourself up-by your-bootstraps” mentality has become an acceptable excuse to justify kicking people when they’re down. The greedy and elitist attitudes of CEO’s and bankers have created a culture of entitlement in this country in which stealing from others less powerful is the best way to get to the top regardless of the social cost."
Thursday, March 20, 2014
New Report: Fortune 100 Companies Have Received $1.2 Trillion in Corporate Welfare Recently
New Report: Fortune 100 Companies Have Received $1.2 Trillion in Corporate Welfare Recently
"Thanks to Open the Books, the curtain has been lifted and the whole country can now witness the great suckling of corporate America."
"Thanks to Open the Books, the curtain has been lifted and the whole country can now witness the great suckling of corporate America."
Bureaucracy, Autocracy and Neoliberal Canada
Bureaucracy, Autocracy and Neoliberal Canada
"The Harper government authorized and encouraged police to violate fundamental constitutional rights, and indeed the rule of law itself, in order to instil in the public a lasting impression that any kind of individual or group resistance against the corporate elite economic agenda would not be tolerated."
"The Harper government authorized and encouraged police to violate fundamental constitutional rights, and indeed the rule of law itself, in order to instil in the public a lasting impression that any kind of individual or group resistance against the corporate elite economic agenda would not be tolerated."
The Cancer Stage of Reaganomics
The Cancer Stage of Reaganomics
"And it really hit the full-blown "cancer stage" in the 2000's, thanks to George W. Bush, who put Reaganomics on steroids"
"And it really hit the full-blown "cancer stage" in the 2000's, thanks to George W. Bush, who put Reaganomics on steroids"
Corporate 'Engine of Corruption' Destroying Global 'Public Good', says TED Prize Winner | Common Dreams
Corporate 'Engine of Corruption' Destroying Global 'Public Good', says TED Prize Winner | Common Dreams
"The identity of the owners of anonymous companies who work behind closed doors against the "public good" should no longer be kept private, Charmian Gooch, co-founder of Global Witness, said Tuesday as she received the TED Prize at the TED2014 conference."
"The identity of the owners of anonymous companies who work behind closed doors against the "public good" should no longer be kept private, Charmian Gooch, co-founder of Global Witness, said Tuesday as she received the TED Prize at the TED2014 conference."
WOW! Target’s New Anti-Union Propaganda May Be Worse Than Walmart’s (Video)
WOW! Target’s New Anti-Union Propaganda May Be Worse Than Walmart’s (Video)
"Like Walmart, many of Target’s employees are forced to resort to safety nets like SNAP, housing assistance, Medicaid, and EITC. In other words, Target is just another corporate Welfare Queen."
"Like Walmart, many of Target’s employees are forced to resort to safety nets like SNAP, housing assistance, Medicaid, and EITC. In other words, Target is just another corporate Welfare Queen."
Banks Seek To Sway Critical GAO Report
Banks Seek To Sway Critical GAO Report
"The financial industry spends more on federal lobbying than any other, according to the Center for Responsive Politics, a nonpartisan group that tracks money in politics. Financial firms, including banks, hedge funds, mortgage lenders and insurers, last year spent $87.5 million on lobbying from January to through September, the most recent available records show."
"The financial industry spends more on federal lobbying than any other, according to the Center for Responsive Politics, a nonpartisan group that tracks money in politics. Financial firms, including banks, hedge funds, mortgage lenders and insurers, last year spent $87.5 million on lobbying from January to through September, the most recent available records show."
Wednesday, March 19, 2014
Why Harvard Must Divest From Fossil Fuels: A Student’s Open Letter | The Nation
Why Harvard Must Divest From Fossil Fuels: A Student’s Open Letter | The Nation
"The movement for fossil-fuel divestment has swelled to what an Oxford University study calls the fastest-growing divestment movement in history, one with the potential to shift the political ground beneath the fossil-fuel lobby’s feet."
"The movement for fossil-fuel divestment has swelled to what an Oxford University study calls the fastest-growing divestment movement in history, one with the potential to shift the political ground beneath the fossil-fuel lobby’s feet."
Scalia Licks His Chops: Upcoming SCOTUS Case May Be Even Worse than Citizens United
www.alternet.org/tea-party-and-right/scalia-licks-his-chops-upcoming-scotus-case-may-be-even-worse-citizens-united
"The case, McCutcheon v. Federal Election Commission, concerns a challenge by the RNC and conservative CEO Shaun McCutcheon to the federal laws restricting how much one person can donate to candidates and party committees each cycle."
"The case, McCutcheon v. Federal Election Commission, concerns a challenge by the RNC and conservative CEO Shaun McCutcheon to the federal laws restricting how much one person can donate to candidates and party committees each cycle."
Expand Overtime Pay? GOP Says No
www.inthesetimes.com/article/16446/expand_overtime_pay_gop_says_no
"Unlike the GOP, the vast majority of Americans believe extra effort should be rewarded. They cherish the idea that their country is one where those who work hard can get ahead. In recent years, however, the actual experience of far too many Americans is that doesn’t happen. They work 50, 60, even 70 hours a week and don’t get paid extra for it. These are not high-roller managers or executives or professionals who don’t expect time and a half for overtime. These are hourly wage earners."
"Unlike the GOP, the vast majority of Americans believe extra effort should be rewarded. They cherish the idea that their country is one where those who work hard can get ahead. In recent years, however, the actual experience of far too many Americans is that doesn’t happen. They work 50, 60, even 70 hours a week and don’t get paid extra for it. These are not high-roller managers or executives or professionals who don’t expect time and a half for overtime. These are hourly wage earners."
The Plutocrats Strike Back
The Plutocrats Strike Back
"Populism is popular with voters, but not with big donors. But the problem for the bankers, Langone, Perkins and the rest is that they no longer operate in secret. The special interest claims no longer have legitimacy. Folks don’t buy the trickle down voodoo anymore."
"Populism is popular with voters, but not with big donors. But the problem for the bankers, Langone, Perkins and the rest is that they no longer operate in secret. The special interest claims no longer have legitimacy. Folks don’t buy the trickle down voodoo anymore."
What's It Like To Raise 3 Kids On $9.49 Per Hour? Watch And See
What's It Like To Raise 3 Kids On $9.49 Per Hour? Watch And See
"HBO is streaming The Shriver Report documentary "Paycheck to Paycheck: The Life and Times of Katrina Gilbert" free to all viewers this week. Take the time to watch."
"HBO is streaming The Shriver Report documentary "Paycheck to Paycheck: The Life and Times of Katrina Gilbert" free to all viewers this week. Take the time to watch."
Bombshell: How The Fix Was In On Christie's 'Stronger Than The Storm' Ad
Bombshell: How The Fix Was In On Christie's 'Stronger Than The Storm' Ad
"How Michelle Brown, Christie's reputed gal pal, made sure the most expensive bid got the job"
"How Michelle Brown, Christie's reputed gal pal, made sure the most expensive bid got the job"
Wisconsin GOP Introduces Bill To Thwart Dark Money Investigation
Wisconsin GOP Introduces Bill To Thwart Dark Money Investigation
"If enacted, the legislation would not necessarily stop the John Doe probe. It would, however, legalize the conduct under investigation in the John Doe for state elections later this year -- including Scott Walker's hotly-contested reelection campaign."
"If enacted, the legislation would not necessarily stop the John Doe probe. It would, however, legalize the conduct under investigation in the John Doe for state elections later this year -- including Scott Walker's hotly-contested reelection campaign."
Kochtopus Tentacles Hide In Alphabet Soup
Kochtopus Tentacles Hide In Alphabet Soup
"Documents released in recent months show the Kochs have added wrinkles to their network that even experts well versed in tax law and campaign finance say they’ve never seen before — wrinkles that could make it harder to discern who controls each nonprofit in the web and how it disperses its money."
"Documents released in recent months show the Kochs have added wrinkles to their network that even experts well versed in tax law and campaign finance say they’ve never seen before — wrinkles that could make it harder to discern who controls each nonprofit in the web and how it disperses its money."
Monday, March 17, 2014
Wisconsin GOP Heads Off Criminal Probe Into Corporate Election Spending By Trying To Make It Legal
www.thinkprogress.org/justice/2014/03/17/3414121/wisconsin-coordination-probe/
"Wisconsin’s State Senate Majority Leader, who is reportedly under investigation for his role in a possibly illegal campaign finance scheme, has come up with a novel way to shut down the criminal probe: changing the state law to legalize the activity in question."
"Wisconsin’s State Senate Majority Leader, who is reportedly under investigation for his role in a possibly illegal campaign finance scheme, has come up with a novel way to shut down the criminal probe: changing the state law to legalize the activity in question."
Three Dems Ask To Meet With Holder To Discuss Prosecuting Mortgage Fraud
Three Dems Ask To Meet With Holder To Discuss Prosecuting Mortgage Fraud
"Three Democratic lawmakers asked to discuss with U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder the Department of Justice's allegedly uneven efforts to prosecute mortgage fraud, according to a letter dated Monday."
"Three Democratic lawmakers asked to discuss with U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder the Department of Justice's allegedly uneven efforts to prosecute mortgage fraud, according to a letter dated Monday."
Pensiongate? Christie Campaign Donors Won Huge Contracts | The Nation
Pensiongate? Christie Campaign Donors Won Huge Contracts | The Nation
"While trumpeting “pension reform,” the New Jersey governor placed retiree assets in the hands of hedge fund managers bankrolling his political career."
"While trumpeting “pension reform,” the New Jersey governor placed retiree assets in the hands of hedge fund managers bankrolling his political career."
Christie's Wall St. Donors Won Huge Contracts, Sucked Out Fat Pension Fees
Christie's Wall St. Donors Won Huge Contracts, Sucked Out Fat Pension Fees
"Christie bragged about pension "reform," but outsourced the assets to his Wall St. buddies so they could siphon off large fees."
"Christie bragged about pension "reform," but outsourced the assets to his Wall St. buddies so they could siphon off large fees."
GOP Bill Designed to Disrupt John Doe Dark Money Probe, Court Filings Confirm
GOP Bill Designed to Disrupt John Doe Dark Money Probe, Court Filings Confirm
"New court filings confirm that Wisconsin's John Doe campaign finance investigation hinges on how state election law treats "issue ad" groups coordinating with political campaigns, shedding new light on a Republican effort to quietly change the law in advance of Governor Scott Walker's reelection campaign."
"New court filings confirm that Wisconsin's John Doe campaign finance investigation hinges on how state election law treats "issue ad" groups coordinating with political campaigns, shedding new light on a Republican effort to quietly change the law in advance of Governor Scott Walker's reelection campaign."
PERRspectives: Kentucky Showcases Paul Ryan's Wrong-Way War on Poverty
PERRspectives: Kentucky Showcases Paul Ryan's Wrong-Way War on Poverty
"Paul Ryan tried to put a face--a black face--on American poverty. As it turns out, Ryan's dog-whistle to the GOP's right-wing base wasn't merely cynical, it was also wrong.
After all, about two-thirds of the nation's 46.5 million people living in poverty are white. The U.S. Census Bureau also informs us that the 17.7 percent poverty rate in rural areas is almost three points higher than the national average. (Poverty is highest in the South, which in 2012 was the only part of the country where it increased.) In many cities and across the countryside, tectonic structural changes in regional economies, and not Paul Ryan's "tailspin of culture," are wiping out good paying jobs. The result is that many communities are sustained by a patchwork of federal and state programs helping to provide food assistance, income support, unemployment benefits, health care and more.
To put it another way, the faces of American poverty can be found in Rust Belt cities, in the Mississippi Delta and in Appalachia. And now--just as it did when LBJ launched his War on Poverty 50 years ago--Kentucky shows why."
"Paul Ryan tried to put a face--a black face--on American poverty. As it turns out, Ryan's dog-whistle to the GOP's right-wing base wasn't merely cynical, it was also wrong.
After all, about two-thirds of the nation's 46.5 million people living in poverty are white. The U.S. Census Bureau also informs us that the 17.7 percent poverty rate in rural areas is almost three points higher than the national average. (Poverty is highest in the South, which in 2012 was the only part of the country where it increased.) In many cities and across the countryside, tectonic structural changes in regional economies, and not Paul Ryan's "tailspin of culture," are wiping out good paying jobs. The result is that many communities are sustained by a patchwork of federal and state programs helping to provide food assistance, income support, unemployment benefits, health care and more.
To put it another way, the faces of American poverty can be found in Rust Belt cities, in the Mississippi Delta and in Appalachia. And now--just as it did when LBJ launched his War on Poverty 50 years ago--Kentucky shows why."
The Untaxed Americans: The Speculators, Hustlers, and Freeloaders of Wall Street | Common Dreams
The Untaxed Americans: The Speculators, Hustlers, and Freeloaders of Wall Street | Common Dreams
"There is currently no U.S. tax on the purchase of stocks, derivatives, and other financial instruments. The rest of us pay up to a 10 percent sales tax on the necessities of daily life. A tiny financial transaction tax of perhaps a tenth of a percent on the trading of financial securities would begin to correct this inequity, while generating billions of dollars of revenue."
"There is currently no U.S. tax on the purchase of stocks, derivatives, and other financial instruments. The rest of us pay up to a 10 percent sales tax on the necessities of daily life. A tiny financial transaction tax of perhaps a tenth of a percent on the trading of financial securities would begin to correct this inequity, while generating billions of dollars of revenue."
Sunday, March 16, 2014
Conservative Myths About the Minimum Wage, Debunked
www.alternet.org/economy/conservative-myths-about-minimum-wage-debunked
"raising the minimum wage to $10.10 per hour would save taxpayers $4.6 billion in spending on food stamps."
"raising the minimum wage to $10.10 per hour would save taxpayers $4.6 billion in spending on food stamps."
Saturday, March 15, 2014
Fox News: Where Helping Workers "Undercuts Work Ethic"
www.mediamatters.org/blog/2014/03/14/fox-news-where-helping-workers-undercuts-work-e/198491
"Fox News is once again pining for the days when more work came with less pay, claiming that expanding overtime pay protections "undercuts work ethic"."
"Fox News is once again pining for the days when more work came with less pay, claiming that expanding overtime pay protections "undercuts work ethic"."
PERRspectives: Republicans Burr, Deal Split on GOP's Emergency Room Plan
PERRspectives: Republicans Burr, Deal Split on GOP's Emergency Room Plan
"Rather than take President Obama's money to run the Peach State's hospitals, Nathan Deal would prefer to leave hundreds of thousands uninsured and put an end to the only health care plan Republicans have consistently supported. (Unsurprisingly, he wants to avoid accountability for his decision by shifting responsibility for the Medicaid rejection to the Georgia state legislature.) In Deal's ideal Georgia, you couldn't just go to the emergency room."
"Rather than take President Obama's money to run the Peach State's hospitals, Nathan Deal would prefer to leave hundreds of thousands uninsured and put an end to the only health care plan Republicans have consistently supported. (Unsurprisingly, he wants to avoid accountability for his decision by shifting responsibility for the Medicaid rejection to the Georgia state legislature.) In Deal's ideal Georgia, you couldn't just go to the emergency room."
Fox News Host Worries Overtime Changes Will Stifle Workaholism
Fox News Host Worries Overtime Changes Will Stifle Workaholism
"In five minutes, this group came up with some of the dumbest reasons ever to oppose modernizing overtime rules that read like the US Chamber of Commerce wrote them. The dumbest claim of the lot was MacCallum's "concern" that paying employees overtime will diminish the standout effect of workaholics when compared to the rest of their co-workers."
"In five minutes, this group came up with some of the dumbest reasons ever to oppose modernizing overtime rules that read like the US Chamber of Commerce wrote them. The dumbest claim of the lot was MacCallum's "concern" that paying employees overtime will diminish the standout effect of workaholics when compared to the rest of their co-workers."
The Right's Crusade to Repeal the 20th Century
www.alternet.org/tea-party-and-right/rights-crusade-repeal-20th-century?page=0%2C0
"Opposing the minimum wage, overtime pay, even child labor laws, the GOP is trying to make it easier to exploit workers."
"Opposing the minimum wage, overtime pay, even child labor laws, the GOP is trying to make it easier to exploit workers."
What A Destructive Wall Street Owes Young Americans | Common Dreams
What A Destructive Wall Street Owes Young Americans | Common Dreams
'Wall Street’s big banks and their financial networks that collapsed the U.S. economy in 2008-2009, were saved with huge bailouts by the taxpayers, but these Wall Street Gamblers are still paid huge money and are again creeping toward reckless misbehavior. Their corporate crime wave strip-mined the economy for young workers, threw them on the unemployment rolls and helped make possible a low-wage economy that is draining away their ability to afford basic housing, goods, and services."
'Wall Street’s big banks and their financial networks that collapsed the U.S. economy in 2008-2009, were saved with huge bailouts by the taxpayers, but these Wall Street Gamblers are still paid huge money and are again creeping toward reckless misbehavior. Their corporate crime wave strip-mined the economy for young workers, threw them on the unemployment rolls and helped make possible a low-wage economy that is draining away their ability to afford basic housing, goods, and services."
Friday, March 14, 2014
Overtime Is Only One Way Your Bosses Steal Your Money
Overtime Is Only One Way Your Bosses Steal Your Money
"Oh, the roaches are coming out of the woodwork to protest the new overtime regulations."
"Oh, the roaches are coming out of the woodwork to protest the new overtime regulations."
10 Things Elizabeth Warren's Consumer Protection Agency Has Done For You
www.motherjones.com/politics/2014/02/elizabeth-warren-consumer-financial-protection-bureau
"The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), the watchdog agency conceived of and established by Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) in the wake of the financial crisis, had a hard time getting on its feet. The GOP tried everything it could to hobble the bureau, but to no avail. Over the past couple of years, the CFPB has issued dozens of protections shielding consumers from shady practices by mortgage lenders, student loan servicers, and credit card companies."
"The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), the watchdog agency conceived of and established by Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) in the wake of the financial crisis, had a hard time getting on its feet. The GOP tried everything it could to hobble the bureau, but to no avail. Over the past couple of years, the CFPB has issued dozens of protections shielding consumers from shady practices by mortgage lenders, student loan servicers, and credit card companies."
Thursday, March 13, 2014
'Better Off' Budget Attacks Status Quo with Bold Progressive Vision | Common Dreams
'Better Off' Budget Attacks Status Quo with Bold Progressive Vision | Common Dreams
"Despite being the largest single caucus on the Democratic side of the aisle, the CPC proposal will not see a winning vote in the GOP-controlled House, but that isn't keeping progressive lawmakers and outside observers from declaring it a blueprint for a more sane U.S. budget and a challenge to both the forthcoming Republican version and a more visionary alternative to the one presented by President Obama last week."
"Despite being the largest single caucus on the Democratic side of the aisle, the CPC proposal will not see a winning vote in the GOP-controlled House, but that isn't keeping progressive lawmakers and outside observers from declaring it a blueprint for a more sane U.S. budget and a challenge to both the forthcoming Republican version and a more visionary alternative to the one presented by President Obama last week."
The ‘Better Off Budget’: Analysis of the Congressional Progressive Caucus budget for fiscal year 2015 | Economic Policy Institute
The ‘Better Off Budget’: Analysis of the Congressional Progressive Caucus budget for fiscal year 2015 | Economic Policy Institute
"Accelerating and sustaining economic growth, promoting economic opportunity, and pushing back against the sharp rise in income inequality remain the most pressing economic challenges confronting policymakers."
"Accelerating and sustaining economic growth, promoting economic opportunity, and pushing back against the sharp rise in income inequality remain the most pressing economic challenges confronting policymakers."
The Budget Wars: The Congressional Progressive Caucus is Ready for Paul Ryan | Common Dreams
The Budget Wars: The Congressional Progressive Caucus is Ready for Paul Ryan | Common Dreams
"In a couple of weeks, House Budget Committee Chairman Paul Ryan — the true champion of “We’re broke” — will unveil his budget. As he’s already promised, it will slash programs like Head Start and job training (presumably because they sap the initiative of three-year-olds and the unemployed.) A clear alternative, a Better Off Budget, will be there ready to take him on."
"In a couple of weeks, House Budget Committee Chairman Paul Ryan — the true champion of “We’re broke” — will unveil his budget. As he’s already promised, it will slash programs like Head Start and job training (presumably because they sap the initiative of three-year-olds and the unemployed.) A clear alternative, a Better Off Budget, will be there ready to take him on."
Supreme Court Ruled In Favor Of The Nation’s Top Corporate Interest Group In 7 Of 8 Cases This Term
www.thinkprogress.org/justice/2014/03/13/3398661/supreme-court-ruled-in-favor-of-the-nations-top-corporate-interest-group-in-7-of-8-cases-this-term/
"So far this term, the Supreme Court handed down eight cases where the United States Chamber of Commerce filed a brief — and a majority of the justices sided with the Chamber in all but one of these decisions. The one outlier decision was a case involving anti-retaliation protections for whistleblowers where the justices votes broke down along unusual lines, with Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg writing the majority opinion and Justice Sonia Sotomayor in dissent.
This most recent data is part of an ongoing project by the Constitutional Accountability Center, which scored the Chamber’s “win rate” before the justices going back to 1981. As their data reflects, corporate America got a big boost in the nation’s highest Court shortly after Chief Justice John Roberts (and his conservative colleague Justice Samuel Alito) became justices"
"So far this term, the Supreme Court handed down eight cases where the United States Chamber of Commerce filed a brief — and a majority of the justices sided with the Chamber in all but one of these decisions. The one outlier decision was a case involving anti-retaliation protections for whistleblowers where the justices votes broke down along unusual lines, with Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg writing the majority opinion and Justice Sonia Sotomayor in dissent.
This most recent data is part of an ongoing project by the Constitutional Accountability Center, which scored the Chamber’s “win rate” before the justices going back to 1981. As their data reflects, corporate America got a big boost in the nation’s highest Court shortly after Chief Justice John Roberts (and his conservative colleague Justice Samuel Alito) became justices"
Wednesday, March 12, 2014
Corporate America Is Hiding $2 Trillion In Profit From The IRS
www.thinkprogress.org/economy/2014/03/12/3395331/offshore-profits-two-trillion/
"The largest American multinational companies parked an additional $206 billion of profits in offshore accounts last year, according to Bloomberg, bringing the total amount of profits stashed where U.S. tax officials can’t touch them up to about two trillion dollars."
"The largest American multinational companies parked an additional $206 billion of profits in offshore accounts last year, according to Bloomberg, bringing the total amount of profits stashed where U.S. tax officials can’t touch them up to about two trillion dollars."
Raise the Pay of Hard-Working Americans with an Update of the Overtime Rules
Raise the Pay of Hard-Working Americans with an Update of the Overtime Rules
"For decades, Americans’ wages have been stagnant—hardly growing at all, even as the economy becomes increasingly productive. Do you ever wonder why your paycheck is so thin? One reason might be that employers routinely ask workers to work long hours without extra compensation."
"For decades, Americans’ wages have been stagnant—hardly growing at all, even as the economy becomes increasingly productive. Do you ever wonder why your paycheck is so thin? One reason might be that employers routinely ask workers to work long hours without extra compensation."
N.J. Lawyer Tells Judge: More Christie Scandal Documents Exist
N.J. Lawyer Tells Judge: More Christie Scandal Documents Exist
"Attorney Reid Schar said the existence of additional documents is not an open question. "I'm not guessing, judge," he said. "I know it because I've seen them"."
"Attorney Reid Schar said the existence of additional documents is not an open question. "I'm not guessing, judge," he said. "I know it because I've seen them"."
Tuesday, March 11, 2014
Let Them Eat Dignity
Let Them Eat Dignity
"Conservatives assure the poor that the health of their souls demands they go hungry."
"Conservatives assure the poor that the health of their souls demands they go hungry."
Too Much Voting and Not Enough Cash, Say Wisconsin Legislators
Too Much Voting and Not Enough Cash, Say Wisconsin Legislators
"The Wisconsin Senate is poised to vote today on a number of bills that would restrict access to the ballot and increase the influence of lobbyists in the state, despite the strong objections of grassroots and voting rights groups."
"The Wisconsin Senate is poised to vote today on a number of bills that would restrict access to the ballot and increase the influence of lobbyists in the state, despite the strong objections of grassroots and voting rights groups."
The McCutcheon Decision Hangs in the Balance. So Does Our Democracy | Common Dreams
The McCutcheon Decision Hangs in the Balance. So Does Our Democracy | Common Dreams
"The US Supreme Court is about to rule in a case that, if successful, would sound the death knell for average Americans’ rapidly-dwindling influence over our politics. McCutcheon vs. FEC seeks to remove many of the few leftover limits protecting our democracy sinceCitizens United."
"The US Supreme Court is about to rule in a case that, if successful, would sound the death knell for average Americans’ rapidly-dwindling influence over our politics. McCutcheon vs. FEC seeks to remove many of the few leftover limits protecting our democracy sinceCitizens United."
GOP assaults the Constitution: Why they don’t really care about free speech
GOP assaults the Constitution: Why they don’t <em>really</em> care about free speech
"Remember their love of liberty and freedom? Now they want to curtail protests and shut down workers' free speech"
"Remember their love of liberty and freedom? Now they want to curtail protests and shut down workers' free speech"
How the GOP Ambushed the VW Union Election
How the GOP Ambushed the VW Union Election
"In Chattanooga, an employer respected workers' right to choose, but the threats and intimidation of anti-union extremists and Republican lawmakers pressured Volkswagen workers into voting against the union. Now, that is a good topic for Chairman Kline's next labor hearing."
"In Chattanooga, an employer respected workers' right to choose, but the threats and intimidation of anti-union extremists and Republican lawmakers pressured Volkswagen workers into voting against the union. Now, that is a good topic for Chairman Kline's next labor hearing."
Grover Norquist has a plan to destroy the middle class and Democrats in one fell swoop
Grover Norquist has a plan to destroy the middle class and Democrats in one fell swoop
"What did come as a surprise, however, is the right wing let the metaphorical cat out of the bag when it comes to their strategy of transforming America’s democracy for the many into a tyrannical plutocracy for the very few, revealing just how disingenuous the Republican Party is whenever it offers any lip service to dealing with income inequality."
"What did come as a surprise, however, is the right wing let the metaphorical cat out of the bag when it comes to their strategy of transforming America’s democracy for the many into a tyrannical plutocracy for the very few, revealing just how disingenuous the Republican Party is whenever it offers any lip service to dealing with income inequality."
Monday, March 10, 2014
WI GOP Marches in Lockstep with ALEC Agenda, Voting Records Show
WI GOP Marches in Lockstep with ALEC Agenda, Voting Records Show
"A review of 2011-2012 voting records by a University of Wisconsin academic demonstrates that many Wisconsin legislators are marching in lockstep with the American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC). Sixty-one Wisconsin politicians -- or 46 percent of the legislature -- voted with the ALEC agenda one hundred percent of the time."
"A review of 2011-2012 voting records by a University of Wisconsin academic demonstrates that many Wisconsin legislators are marching in lockstep with the American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC). Sixty-one Wisconsin politicians -- or 46 percent of the legislature -- voted with the ALEC agenda one hundred percent of the time."
David Samson subpoenaed by federal prosecutors in N.Y., reports say
David Samson subpoenaed by federal prosecutors in N.Y., reports say
"The embattled chairman of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey and close ally to Gov. Chris Christie, David Samson, has been subpoenaed by federal prosecutors in Manhattan as part of a newly disclosed investigation, according to the Wall Street Journal."
"The embattled chairman of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey and close ally to Gov. Chris Christie, David Samson, has been subpoenaed by federal prosecutors in Manhattan as part of a newly disclosed investigation, according to the Wall Street Journal."
The Failed Libertarian Experiment in Chile
The Failed Libertarian Experiment in Chile
"The libertarian experiment failed in Chile, and now Chileans once-and-for-all, have said goodbye to the religion of Reaganomics."
"The libertarian experiment failed in Chile, and now Chileans once-and-for-all, have said goodbye to the religion of Reaganomics."
Sunday, March 9, 2014
Conservatives Offer Americans Empty Stomachs and Empty Rhetoric | Common Dreams
Conservatives Offer Americans Empty Stomachs and Empty Rhetoric | Common Dreams
"Paul Ryan says that “the left” is offering Americans “a full stomach and an empty soul.” The truth is that conservatives like Paul Ryan are offering Americans empty stomachs and empty rhetoric . The American people want more than that."
"Paul Ryan says that “the left” is offering Americans “a full stomach and an empty soul.” The truth is that conservatives like Paul Ryan are offering Americans empty stomachs and empty rhetoric . The American people want more than that."
8 Colossal Jackasses From the Right-Wing Fringe: Just-Stop-Being-Poor Edition
www.alternet.org/tea-party-and-right/8-colossal-jackasses-right-wing-fringe-just-stop-being-poor-edition
"asinine comments were made elsewhere in the right-wing lunasphere"
"asinine comments were made elsewhere in the right-wing lunasphere"
Saturday, March 8, 2014
Wingnuts baffled by inequality: Why they’re totally confused about how to talk about it
Wingnuts baffled by inequality: Why they’re totally confused about how to talk about it
"From decrying the problem to praising it to ignoring it, the right is totally lost on how to talk to the 99 percent"
"From decrying the problem to praising it to ignoring it, the right is totally lost on how to talk to the 99 percent"
Robert Reich: The middle class can save us yet
Robert Reich: The middle class can save us yet
"We must restore our recollection. In seeking to repair what is broken, we don’t have to emulate another nation. We have only to emulate what we once had.
That we once achieved broad-based prosperity means we can achieve it again — not exactly the same way, of course, but in a new way fit for the twenty-first century and for future generations of Americans.
America’s great U-turn can be reversed. It is worth the fight."
"We must restore our recollection. In seeking to repair what is broken, we don’t have to emulate another nation. We have only to emulate what we once had.
That we once achieved broad-based prosperity means we can achieve it again — not exactly the same way, of course, but in a new way fit for the twenty-first century and for future generations of Americans.
America’s great U-turn can be reversed. It is worth the fight."
“Wisconsin is the model”: Grover Norquist’s Tea Party scheme to crush his union enemies
“Wisconsin is the model”: Grover Norquist’s Tea Party scheme to crush his union enemies
"At CPAC panel, RNC Chair Priebus touts "total and complete unity" between GOP, Tea Party, and Glenn Beck acolytes"
"At CPAC panel, RNC Chair Priebus touts "total and complete unity" between GOP, Tea Party, and Glenn Beck acolytes"
The sociopathic 1 percent: The driving force at the heart of the Tea Party
The sociopathic 1 percent: The driving force at the heart of the Tea Party
"In their warped view of society, only the individual exists -- with no social relations, shared history and culture"
"In their warped view of society, only the individual exists -- with no social relations, shared history and culture"
ALEC, National Corporate Friendly 'Bill Mill', Going Local | Common Dreams
ALEC, National Corporate Friendly 'Bill Mill', Going Local | Common Dreams
"According to a report in the Guardian, the Koch brothers-backed group—which has been responsible for many conservative pieces of legislation shaped in the form of ALEC "model bills"—is spring-boarding a new initiative that will focus the group's energy on issues and political campaigns in "villages, towns, cities and counties" across the country."
"According to a report in the Guardian, the Koch brothers-backed group—which has been responsible for many conservative pieces of legislation shaped in the form of ALEC "model bills"—is spring-boarding a new initiative that will focus the group's energy on issues and political campaigns in "villages, towns, cities and counties" across the country."
Friday, March 7, 2014
Campaign to Address the Student Loan Crisis Launches | The Nation
Campaign to Address the Student Loan Crisis Launches | The Nation
"The campaign launched Thursday at the Center for American Progress with some big-name speakers: Senator Elizabeth Warren and AFT President Randi Weingarten."
"The campaign launched Thursday at the Center for American Progress with some big-name speakers: Senator Elizabeth Warren and AFT President Randi Weingarten."
In the Midst of an Investigation, WI GOP Fast-Tracks "Dark Money" Bill
In the Midst of an Investigation, WI GOP Fast-Tracks "Dark Money" Bill
"A proposed bill that would keep the public in the dark about the sources of money in Wisconsin elections could also make it easier for dark money groups to coordinate with candidates, an issue of particular salience given the ongoing "John Doe" probe into alleged campaign finance violations in the state.
"Dark money" is a phrase which refers to election spending by nonprofits that exploit loopholes in campaign finance disclosure laws and keep their donors secret by running "issue ads" designed to influence elections. Wisconsin's "dark money" bill was just introduced this week. It is now being fast-tracked in the Wisconsin legislature before the end of session, with little time for the press and public to asses its impact."
"A proposed bill that would keep the public in the dark about the sources of money in Wisconsin elections could also make it easier for dark money groups to coordinate with candidates, an issue of particular salience given the ongoing "John Doe" probe into alleged campaign finance violations in the state.
"Dark money" is a phrase which refers to election spending by nonprofits that exploit loopholes in campaign finance disclosure laws and keep their donors secret by running "issue ads" designed to influence elections. Wisconsin's "dark money" bill was just introduced this week. It is now being fast-tracked in the Wisconsin legislature before the end of session, with little time for the press and public to asses its impact."
Paul Ryan’s CPAC Speech Was Based on a Lie | The Nation
Paul Ryan’s CPAC Speech Was Based on a Lie | The Nation
"Paul Ryan’s CPAC speech yesterday was almost comically offensive even before it became clear that it was based on a lie."
"Paul Ryan’s CPAC speech yesterday was almost comically offensive even before it became clear that it was based on a lie."
ALEC: Now Coming To A City Or Town Government Near You
ALEC: Now Coming To A City Or Town Government Near You
"The American Legislative Exchange Council, founded in 1973, has become one of the most pervasive advocacy operations in the nation. It brings elected officials together with representatives of major corporations, giving those companies a direct channel into legislation in the form of Alec “model bills”."
"The American Legislative Exchange Council, founded in 1973, has become one of the most pervasive advocacy operations in the nation. It brings elected officials together with representatives of major corporations, giving those companies a direct channel into legislation in the form of Alec “model bills”."
Thursday, March 6, 2014
These Nine Maps Show How The GOP is Destroying Southern States
These Nine Maps Show How The GOP is Destroying Southern States
"Upward mobility is also a scenario that southerners cannot expect to experience at a rate matching the more sensible parts of the country. Red state voters have a decreased likelihood of moving up the economic ladder, as shown below. The dark red areas are places where the American Dream is all but dead."
"Upward mobility is also a scenario that southerners cannot expect to experience at a rate matching the more sensible parts of the country. Red state voters have a decreased likelihood of moving up the economic ladder, as shown below. The dark red areas are places where the American Dream is all but dead."
It’s Official: Job Growth Exploding While Poverty Shrinks In State With Highest Min. Wage! (Video)
It’s Official: Job Growth Exploding While Poverty Shrinks In State With Highest Min. Wage! (Video)
"However, the gridlock congress and the fact that the Tea Party would rather see someone else die before they raise the minimum wage (someone else who was preferably Black or Hispanic) means it’ll likely be up to local governments for the foreseeable future, and some aren’t waiting around. San Fran and Santa Fe are both increasing theirs to $10.74 and $10.66, respectively, while New Jersey voters have voted to increase it by $1, and tied future increases to the consumer price index. New Jersey in particular is notable; since the increase in minimum wage, the state’s added over 8,000 new jobs at a rate the fastest it’s being since 2012. And this doesn’t even touch on SeaTac, a suburb of Seattle; they voted a $15.00 minimum wage for people in certain service sectors."
"However, the gridlock congress and the fact that the Tea Party would rather see someone else die before they raise the minimum wage (someone else who was preferably Black or Hispanic) means it’ll likely be up to local governments for the foreseeable future, and some aren’t waiting around. San Fran and Santa Fe are both increasing theirs to $10.74 and $10.66, respectively, while New Jersey voters have voted to increase it by $1, and tied future increases to the consumer price index. New Jersey in particular is notable; since the increase in minimum wage, the state’s added over 8,000 new jobs at a rate the fastest it’s being since 2012. And this doesn’t even touch on SeaTac, a suburb of Seattle; they voted a $15.00 minimum wage for people in certain service sectors."
A Healthy Economy Requires Fewer People Working on Wall Street, Making Much Less Money
www.alternet.org/economy/american-economy-recover-we-need-fewer-people-working-wall-st-making-much-less-money
"All of us suspect the obvious — that Wall Street not only is too big to fail, but also just too damn big. But where's our evidence? It's one thing to direct our anger at financial elites and the top one percent. It's quite another to make a factual case that Wall Street, indeed, is much too big, and therefore should be radically reduced in size. So here's some data."
"All of us suspect the obvious — that Wall Street not only is too big to fail, but also just too damn big. But where's our evidence? It's one thing to direct our anger at financial elites and the top one percent. It's quite another to make a factual case that Wall Street, indeed, is much too big, and therefore should be radically reduced in size. So here's some data."
Wednesday, March 5, 2014
Jim Hightower | A Financial Transaction Tax on High Frequency Traders
Jim Hightower | A Financial Transaction Tax on High Frequency Traders
"A sales tax on speculators can deliver tangibles that people need but Wall Street says we can't afford — infrastructure, Social Security, education, good jobs, etc. Just as important, it can deliver intangibles that our nation needs but Wall Street tries to ignore — fairness, social cohesion, equal opportunity, etc."
"A sales tax on speculators can deliver tangibles that people need but Wall Street says we can't afford — infrastructure, Social Security, education, good jobs, etc. Just as important, it can deliver intangibles that our nation needs but Wall Street tries to ignore — fairness, social cohesion, equal opportunity, etc."
David Sirota | How the Rich Became Dependent on Government Welfare
David Sirota | How the Rich Became Dependent on Government Welfare
"In dollar figures, that's a whopping $110 billion going to big companies. Fortune 500 firms alone receive more than 16,000 subsidies at a total cost of $63 billion."
"In dollar figures, that's a whopping $110 billion going to big companies. Fortune 500 firms alone receive more than 16,000 subsidies at a total cost of $63 billion."
In Show of Direct Democracy, Vermont Pushes for Public Bank | Common Dreams
In Show of Direct Democracy, Vermont Pushes for Public Bank | Common Dreams
"Fifteen towns approve resolution that would establish bank that works for Vermont, not Wall Street"
"Fifteen towns approve resolution that would establish bank that works for Vermont, not Wall Street"
The Effects of Minimum Wages on SNAP Enrollments and Expenditures
www.americanprogress.org/issues/economy/report/2014/03/05/85158/the-effects-of-minimum-wages-on-snap-enrollments-and-expenditures/
"Raising the minimum wage to $10.10 per hour would lower government spending on federal nutrition assistance by $46 billion over the next 10 years"
"Raising the minimum wage to $10.10 per hour would lower government spending on federal nutrition assistance by $46 billion over the next 10 years"
7 Reasons Why the Republican Claim that Raising Minimum Wage Will Kill Jobs Is Bunk
www.alternet.org/economy/7-reasons-why-republican-claim-raising-minimum-wage-will-kill-jobs-bunk
"The U.S. Chamber of Commerce says a minimum wage increase would be a job killer. Republicans and the Chamber also say unions are job killers, workplace safety regulations are job killers, environmental regulations are job killers, and the Affordable Care Act is a job killer. The California Chamber of Commerce even publishes an annual list of “job killers,” including almost any measures that lift wages or protect workers and the environment.
Most of this is bunk."
"The U.S. Chamber of Commerce says a minimum wage increase would be a job killer. Republicans and the Chamber also say unions are job killers, workplace safety regulations are job killers, environmental regulations are job killers, and the Affordable Care Act is a job killer. The California Chamber of Commerce even publishes an annual list of “job killers,” including almost any measures that lift wages or protect workers and the environment.
Most of this is bunk."
Meet Mythopedia, A Treasure Trove of Conservative Whoppers | Common Dreams
Meet Mythopedia, A Treasure Trove of Conservative Whoppers | Common Dreams
"Mythopedia, an online inter-active compendium of lies peddled by conservatives, along with truths, their sources and useful rebuttals."
"Mythopedia, an online inter-active compendium of lies peddled by conservatives, along with truths, their sources and useful rebuttals."
Phonies, frauds and liars: Why GOP’s poverty strategy is even more cynical than you think
Phonies, frauds and liars: Why GOP’s poverty strategy is even more cynical than you think
"It’s heartwarming to see how quickly Rep. Paul Ryan’s new poverty report has been debunked and discredited. The Center on Budget and Policy Priorities has the most exhaustive takedown, but the Fiscal Times report featuring scholars who said Ryan misrepresented their work in order to discredit anti-poverty programs was devastating, too."
"It’s heartwarming to see how quickly Rep. Paul Ryan’s new poverty report has been debunked and discredited. The Center on Budget and Policy Priorities has the most exhaustive takedown, but the Fiscal Times report featuring scholars who said Ryan misrepresented their work in order to discredit anti-poverty programs was devastating, too."
Chris Christie Praises Obamacare Medicaid Expansion At Town Hall, South Carolina Responds
Chris Christie Praises Obamacare Medicaid Expansion At Town Hall, South Carolina Responds
"what's even more amazing is that Christie is not shy about flaunting his support for Medicaid expansion. Has he bullied the press so much that hey won't even question his actions in South Carolina while doing just the opposite in his own state?"
"what's even more amazing is that Christie is not shy about flaunting his support for Medicaid expansion. Has he bullied the press so much that hey won't even question his actions in South Carolina while doing just the opposite in his own state?"
8 of the Most Clueless, Offensive Statements by America's Out-of-Touch Rich People
www.alternet.org/economy/they-dont-get-it-8-most-clueless-statements-1
"Five years after Wall Street wrecked the economy, the rich are doing better than ever: the Dow is at record highs, while the 1% control more of the country’s (and the world’s) wealth than ever before.
So why are the wealthy so cranky? The last couple months have seen a surge in CEOs, hedge fund managers and startup entrepreneurs whining about how tough they have it, while lecturing the working class about how they need to stop that very whining. According to the wealthy, they do all the work, earn all the money, and yet practically live like paupers."
"Five years after Wall Street wrecked the economy, the rich are doing better than ever: the Dow is at record highs, while the 1% control more of the country’s (and the world’s) wealth than ever before.
So why are the wealthy so cranky? The last couple months have seen a surge in CEOs, hedge fund managers and startup entrepreneurs whining about how tough they have it, while lecturing the working class about how they need to stop that very whining. According to the wealthy, they do all the work, earn all the money, and yet practically live like paupers."
Tuesday, March 4, 2014
Comcast's Biggest Lobbyist Dodges Lobbying Rules By Pretending He's Usually Not Lobbying
Comcast's Biggest Lobbyist Dodges Lobbying Rules By Pretending He's Usually Not Lobbying
"Cohen's a lobbyist in all the ways you'd expect a lobbyist to be, from hob knobbing with regulators and fund raising for President Obama, to penning a litany of awful editorials about bad policy in papers nationwide. Every month or so Cohen can be found busily pretending the U.S. broadband market is competitive, or pretending that the United States' mediocre showing in every meaningful global broadband stat actually means we're leading the world at broadband. Yet despite spending the lion's share of his time lobbying, Cohen doesn't have to follow the disclosure rules for lobbyists -- and hasn't since 2007 -- because he's able to simply pretend he doesn't spend much time lobbying."
"Cohen's a lobbyist in all the ways you'd expect a lobbyist to be, from hob knobbing with regulators and fund raising for President Obama, to penning a litany of awful editorials about bad policy in papers nationwide. Every month or so Cohen can be found busily pretending the U.S. broadband market is competitive, or pretending that the United States' mediocre showing in every meaningful global broadband stat actually means we're leading the world at broadband. Yet despite spending the lion's share of his time lobbying, Cohen doesn't have to follow the disclosure rules for lobbyists -- and hasn't since 2007 -- because he's able to simply pretend he doesn't spend much time lobbying."
Elderly Women the Most Vulnerable, Social Security the Most Protective
Elderly Women the Most Vulnerable, Social Security the Most Protective
"Social Security (and other social insurance programs like Medicare and Medicaid) has significantly helped reduce elderly poverty over the last several decades. The U.S. Census Bureau reported that 15.3 million elderly people would have been in poverty in 2012 without Social Security."
"Social Security (and other social insurance programs like Medicare and Medicaid) has significantly helped reduce elderly poverty over the last several decades. The U.S. Census Bureau reported that 15.3 million elderly people would have been in poverty in 2012 without Social Security."
How Christie Built the Port Authority ‘Slush Fund’ | The Nation
How Christie Built the Port Authority ‘Slush Fund’ | The Nation
"Two former officials with the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey described to Christie Watch a regime of secrecy, conspiracy and political favoritism inside the huge agency. They also claimed that Bill Baroni and David Wildstein, both of whom have resigned in the wake of the Bridgegate scandal, were key principals in a secret effort by Governor Chris Christie to raise tolls on the Hudson River bridges and tunnels in order to help fund a slush fund that was used to finance major construction projects that benefited the PA’s chairman, David Samson, and his law firm, Wolff & Samson. Among those projects: the raising and reconstruction of the Bayonne Bridge, a $1.2 billion project that benefited Skanska Koch, a construction firm represented by Wolff & Samson."
"Two former officials with the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey described to Christie Watch a regime of secrecy, conspiracy and political favoritism inside the huge agency. They also claimed that Bill Baroni and David Wildstein, both of whom have resigned in the wake of the Bridgegate scandal, were key principals in a secret effort by Governor Chris Christie to raise tolls on the Hudson River bridges and tunnels in order to help fund a slush fund that was used to finance major construction projects that benefited the PA’s chairman, David Samson, and his law firm, Wolff & Samson. Among those projects: the raising and reconstruction of the Bayonne Bridge, a $1.2 billion project that benefited Skanska Koch, a construction firm represented by Wolff & Samson."
The Billionaires’ Scheme to Destroy Democracy
www.inthesetimes.com/article/16341/the_billionaire_scheme_to_destroy_democracy
"And in the United Plutocrats of Perkins, the children and grandchildren of billionaires, the nation’s Paris Hiltons and PC Petersons, would wield millions of times the political power of Jack Andraka, the determined Maryland teen-ager who developed an inexpensive test for pancreatic cancer, or Tawanda Jones, who used her savings to start a dance team to teach Camden girls self-discipline.
Self-righteous 1 percenters—from former Morgan Stanley CEO John J. Mack to real estate investor Sam Zell—sulked in recent weeks that their money can’t buy them love from the 99 percent. Perkins’ solution is to eliminate democracy’s self-determination and return to medieval rule by wealthy royals."
"And in the United Plutocrats of Perkins, the children and grandchildren of billionaires, the nation’s Paris Hiltons and PC Petersons, would wield millions of times the political power of Jack Andraka, the determined Maryland teen-ager who developed an inexpensive test for pancreatic cancer, or Tawanda Jones, who used her savings to start a dance team to teach Camden girls self-discipline.
Self-righteous 1 percenters—from former Morgan Stanley CEO John J. Mack to real estate investor Sam Zell—sulked in recent weeks that their money can’t buy them love from the 99 percent. Perkins’ solution is to eliminate democracy’s self-determination and return to medieval rule by wealthy royals."
Monday, March 3, 2014
7 Numbers that Show How Most Americans Were Robbed of a Comfortable Retirement
www.alternet.org/economy/7-numbers-show-how-most-americans-were-robbed-comfortable-retirement
"The dream of a comfortable retirement is dying for many Americans. It's being extracted as a form of tribute to the very rich, a redistribution of our nation's wealth, a "tax" imposed on the middle and lower classes and paid for with their retirement savings."
"The dream of a comfortable retirement is dying for many Americans. It's being extracted as a form of tribute to the very rich, a redistribution of our nation's wealth, a "tax" imposed on the middle and lower classes and paid for with their retirement savings."
Saturday, March 1, 2014
The Real Job Killers | Common Dreams
The Real Job Killers | Common Dreams
"In other words, forget what you’re hearing from the Republicans and the Chamber of Commerce. The real job killers in America are lousy jobs at lousy wages."
"In other words, forget what you’re hearing from the Republicans and the Chamber of Commerce. The real job killers in America are lousy jobs at lousy wages."
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