How George W. Bush Screwed This Generation of College Students
"In fact, every hour, the war in Afghanistan is costing We the People another $10.17 million."
Wednesday, April 30, 2014
Derailing the High-Speed Trading Bullet Train Before It Crashes Our Economy | Common Dreams
Derailing the High-Speed Trading Bullet Train Before It Crashes Our Economy | Common Dreams
"Four years after they caused the “Flash Crash,” those speed demons still rule our financial markets."
"Four years after they caused the “Flash Crash,” those speed demons still rule our financial markets."
Koch Brothers, Major Corporations Sponsor Pension Reform Seminar for Judges
Koch Brothers, Major Corporations Sponsor Pension Reform Seminar for Judges
"In all, about three dozen corporations — Ford Motor Co., General Electric Co., ConocoPhillips, drug maker Pfizer and the Dow Chemical Company also among them — are sponsoring the conference. Other funders include trade associations such as the American Petroleum Institute and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, and conservative foundations such as the John William Pope Foundation and the Charles G. Koch Charitable Foundation."
"In all, about three dozen corporations — Ford Motor Co., General Electric Co., ConocoPhillips, drug maker Pfizer and the Dow Chemical Company also among them — are sponsoring the conference. Other funders include trade associations such as the American Petroleum Institute and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, and conservative foundations such as the John William Pope Foundation and the Charles G. Koch Charitable Foundation."
With Unlimited Financial Campaign Contributions, One Robber Baron Can Control a State
With Unlimited Financial Campaign Contributions, One Robber Baron Can Control a State
"If you want to see how just one Wall Street robber baron can squash democracy for the sake of greed and privatization, just look to the Missouri legislature."
"If you want to see how just one Wall Street robber baron can squash democracy for the sake of greed and privatization, just look to the Missouri legislature."
Today’s Senate Minimum Wage Vote Is A Moral Litmus Test | Common Dreams
Today’s Senate Minimum Wage Vote Is A Moral Litmus Test | Common Dreams
"By opposing increases in the minimum wage – including the minimum wage for tipped workers, which has not increased since the early 1990s – taxpayers spend about $7 billion a year in assistance payments to close the gap between what workers are paid and what they need to meet their most basic expenses. Taxpayers also subsidize the outsize salaries of the CEOs of low-wage employers – to the tune of $232 million in 2012 and 2013 for just the top 20 restaurant chains, Pizzigati wrote. These CEOs earn, on average, more than 1,000 times the salary of an average fast-food worker."
"By opposing increases in the minimum wage – including the minimum wage for tipped workers, which has not increased since the early 1990s – taxpayers spend about $7 billion a year in assistance payments to close the gap between what workers are paid and what they need to meet their most basic expenses. Taxpayers also subsidize the outsize salaries of the CEOs of low-wage employers – to the tune of $232 million in 2012 and 2013 for just the top 20 restaurant chains, Pizzigati wrote. These CEOs earn, on average, more than 1,000 times the salary of an average fast-food worker."
'Money is Not Speech': Retired Justice Stevens Slams Dark Money Rulings | Common Dreams
'Money is Not Speech': Retired Justice Stevens Slams Dark Money Rulings | Common Dreams
"The retired justice made a rare appearance before Congress to champion a proposed constitutional amendment, put forth by Senator Tom Udall (D-N.M.), that would grant Congress the authority to regulate campaign finance, limiting the ability of super PACs to impact elections."
"The retired justice made a rare appearance before Congress to champion a proposed constitutional amendment, put forth by Senator Tom Udall (D-N.M.), that would grant Congress the authority to regulate campaign finance, limiting the ability of super PACs to impact elections."
Senate Republicans Shoot Down Minimum Wage Hike
Senate Republicans Shoot Down Minimum Wage Hike
"US Senate Republicans on Wednesday blocked a hotly-contested measure to raise the federal minimum wage to $10.10 an hour, smothering President Barack Obama's priority effort to improve pay for working-class Americans."
"US Senate Republicans on Wednesday blocked a hotly-contested measure to raise the federal minimum wage to $10.10 an hour, smothering President Barack Obama's priority effort to improve pay for working-class Americans."
Tuesday, April 29, 2014
Donald Sterling's View From The 1%
Donald Sterling's View From The 1%
"Not only did Donald Sterling's racism come out loud and clear on the audio tape, but it also gives us a bird's eye view of just how the wealthy view the workers in this country."
"Not only did Donald Sterling's racism come out loud and clear on the audio tape, but it also gives us a bird's eye view of just how the wealthy view the workers in this country."
PERRspectives: GOP's Grimm is the Face of America's $500 Billion Tax Gap
PERRspectives: GOP's Grimm is the Face of America's $500 Billion Tax Gap
"As it turns out, Rep. Grimm's jihad against the IRS was ironic and personal. On Monday, the former FBI agent surrendered to federal authorities who charged him with defrauding the United States out of over $1 million owed by his small business called--wait for it--Healthalicious."
"As it turns out, Rep. Grimm's jihad against the IRS was ironic and personal. On Monday, the former FBI agent surrendered to federal authorities who charged him with defrauding the United States out of over $1 million owed by his small business called--wait for it--Healthalicious."
Rick Santorum Rebrands Himself As Working Class Populist, Promptly Announces Opposition To Minimum Wage Hike
www.thinkprogress.org/economy/2014/04/29/3432020/rick-santorum-against-minimum-wage/
"Indeed, Santorum’s 2012 economic plan would have only widened the growing gap between the richest Americans and everybody else."
"Indeed, Santorum’s 2012 economic plan would have only widened the growing gap between the richest Americans and everybody else."
A Million Veterans Would Benefit from a Minimum Wage Increase
A Million Veterans Would Benefit from a Minimum Wage Increase
"We ask a lot of our armed forces. They serve our country in some of the most dangerous environments and difficult situations faced by any American. Yet having endured those experiences, too many veterans returning to civilian jobs find themselves in work that barely pays enough to live on. In fact, of the roughly 10 million veterans working in America today, 1 in 10—that’s one million veterans—is paid wages low enough that they would receive a raise if the federal minimum wage were increased to $10.10 per hour, as proposed in the Fair Minimum Wage Act of 2013."
"We ask a lot of our armed forces. They serve our country in some of the most dangerous environments and difficult situations faced by any American. Yet having endured those experiences, too many veterans returning to civilian jobs find themselves in work that barely pays enough to live on. In fact, of the roughly 10 million veterans working in America today, 1 in 10—that’s one million veterans—is paid wages low enough that they would receive a raise if the federal minimum wage were increased to $10.10 per hour, as proposed in the Fair Minimum Wage Act of 2013."
Show Me the Money: Meet the Multimillionaire Squeezing Missouri's Schools
Show Me the Money: Meet the Multimillionaire Squeezing Missouri's Schools
"You've probably heard of the billionaire Koch Brothers by now, and their sinister push to distort our democracy. But you may not have heard of Rex Sinquefield.
Unlike the Koch Brothers, who made their money the old-fashioned way, by inheriting it, Sinquefield is a self-made man, who earned a fortune in the stock market by investing in index funds.
He's a major funder of the American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC), and he has also bankrolled the Club for Growth.
Though he was born in Missouri, he didn't move back there until 2005, after being away nearly four decades.
Now he claims to know how to "fix" the state. To an astonishing degree, over the last few years, Missouri's political landscape has been dominated by the wish list of just this one man.
Sinquefield is doing to Missouri what the Koch Brothers are doing to the entire country. For the Koch Brothers and Sinquefield, a lot of the action these days is not at the national but at the state level.
By examining what Sinquefield is up to in Missouri, you get a sobering glimpse of how the wealthiest conservatives are conducting a low-profile campaign to destroy civil society."
"You've probably heard of the billionaire Koch Brothers by now, and their sinister push to distort our democracy. But you may not have heard of Rex Sinquefield.
Unlike the Koch Brothers, who made their money the old-fashioned way, by inheriting it, Sinquefield is a self-made man, who earned a fortune in the stock market by investing in index funds.
He's a major funder of the American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC), and he has also bankrolled the Club for Growth.
Though he was born in Missouri, he didn't move back there until 2005, after being away nearly four decades.
Now he claims to know how to "fix" the state. To an astonishing degree, over the last few years, Missouri's political landscape has been dominated by the wish list of just this one man.
Sinquefield is doing to Missouri what the Koch Brothers are doing to the entire country. For the Koch Brothers and Sinquefield, a lot of the action these days is not at the national but at the state level.
By examining what Sinquefield is up to in Missouri, you get a sobering glimpse of how the wealthiest conservatives are conducting a low-profile campaign to destroy civil society."
Rigging The Rules: Congress Moving Corporate Tax Breaks
Rigging The Rules: Congress Moving Corporate Tax Breaks
"Republicans in the House are getting ready to push permanent tax breaks largely for corporations. They don't intend to offset them by closing other loopholes or raising rates. This is a case study in how the game is fixed and the rules are rigged."
"Republicans in the House are getting ready to push permanent tax breaks largely for corporations. They don't intend to offset them by closing other loopholes or raising rates. This is a case study in how the game is fixed and the rules are rigged."
Monday, April 28, 2014
PERRspectives: The GOP Has Made the Red State Health Care Deficit Worse
PERRspectives: The GOP Has Made the Red State Health Care Deficit Worse
"To put those findings in terms Republicans can understand, up to 3,000 of Rick Perry's Texans will needlessly die each year. Those dead will joined by up to 671 from Scott Walker's Wisconsin, 1,176 in Nathan Deal's Georgia, 2,221 in Rick Scott's Florida and 1,145 in Pat McCrory's North Carolina."
"To put those findings in terms Republicans can understand, up to 3,000 of Rick Perry's Texans will needlessly die each year. Those dead will joined by up to 671 from Scott Walker's Wisconsin, 1,176 in Nathan Deal's Georgia, 2,221 in Rick Scott's Florida and 1,145 in Pat McCrory's North Carolina."
Demanding 'Just and Sustainable' Economy For All, Thousands March on Congress | Common Dreams
Demanding 'Just and Sustainable' Economy For All, Thousands March on Congress | Common Dreams
"Protesters rally at Capitol building to call for increase to minimum wage and an end to corporate giveaways"
"Protesters rally at Capitol building to call for increase to minimum wage and an end to corporate giveaways"
Friday, April 25, 2014
'Drop Everything and Take Action': Activists Issue Clarion Call to Save the Internet | Common Dreams
'Drop Everything and Take Action': Activists Issue Clarion Call to Save the Internet | Common Dreams
"That's the message from the nation's largest and most active organizations focused on the issue of online freedom and net neutrality."
"That's the message from the nation's largest and most active organizations focused on the issue of online freedom and net neutrality."
The Post Office Was Targeted By Bain Capital Vultures All Along
The Post Office Was Targeted By Bain Capital Vultures All Along
"The 109th United States Congress held a vote back in 2006 that did irreparable harm to one of the largest unions in the country and one of the most functional institutes of our government. A Republican Congress—acting at the behest of the Bush-Cheney administration—enacted a law that required the postal service to “pre-fund” retiree health benefits seventy-five years into the future. NO corporation has ever been asked to shoulder such insane financial burdens and Americans had no idea this was even happening. The US Post Office is one of the top employers of veterans. Yet the GOP has repeatedly slashed any means of assistance for the “troops” they claim to support. Not only did those brave men and women fight a senseless war without being properly equipped with safe gear, but their means of livelihood when they return to civilian life has been systematically eradicated by Republicans."
"The 109th United States Congress held a vote back in 2006 that did irreparable harm to one of the largest unions in the country and one of the most functional institutes of our government. A Republican Congress—acting at the behest of the Bush-Cheney administration—enacted a law that required the postal service to “pre-fund” retiree health benefits seventy-five years into the future. NO corporation has ever been asked to shoulder such insane financial burdens and Americans had no idea this was even happening. The US Post Office is one of the top employers of veterans. Yet the GOP has repeatedly slashed any means of assistance for the “troops” they claim to support. Not only did those brave men and women fight a senseless war without being properly equipped with safe gear, but their means of livelihood when they return to civilian life has been systematically eradicated by Republicans."
Right Scrambles over Red-Hot Indictment of Inequality and Capitalism | Common Dreams
Right Scrambles over Red-Hot Indictment of Inequality and Capitalism | Common Dreams
"As a book by French economist Thomas Piketty has soared to the top of U.S. best seller lists and the public discourse surrounding inequality has popularized the once rare term "oligarchy" in recent weeks, the American rightwing appears flabbergasted about how to respond to the seemingly red-hot rise of the idea that modern capitalism has become a failure by creating a permanent ultra-rich ruling class to the detriment of the overall economy and everyone else."
"As a book by French economist Thomas Piketty has soared to the top of U.S. best seller lists and the public discourse surrounding inequality has popularized the once rare term "oligarchy" in recent weeks, the American rightwing appears flabbergasted about how to respond to the seemingly red-hot rise of the idea that modern capitalism has become a failure by creating a permanent ultra-rich ruling class to the detriment of the overall economy and everyone else."
Thursday, April 24, 2014
Fast Food Companies Pay CEOs 1,200 Times What They Pay Workers (And You’re Helping Them Do It)
www.thinkprogress.org/economy/2014/04/24/3430538/fast-food-workers-ceos-taxpayers/
"Fast food CEOs now earn about 1,200 times more than their workers and taxpayers are helping to make that possible, according to a pair of new reports on the industry’s pay practices."
"Fast food CEOs now earn about 1,200 times more than their workers and taxpayers are helping to make that possible, according to a pair of new reports on the industry’s pay practices."
Wall Street's Newest Scam To Skim Profits
Wall Street's Newest Scam To Skim Profits
"I am shocked -- SHOCKED -- to discover that Wall Street has hatched yet another scheme to shave off some profits for themselves and their billionaires while leaving the rest of us with the dregs, aren't you?
This scam is called "high frequency trading" (HFT)."
"I am shocked -- SHOCKED -- to discover that Wall Street has hatched yet another scheme to shave off some profits for themselves and their billionaires while leaving the rest of us with the dregs, aren't you?
This scam is called "high frequency trading" (HFT)."
Unless Defeated, New FCC Rules Will Put 'Stake in Internet's Heart' | Common Dreams
Unless Defeated, New FCC Rules Will Put 'Stake in Internet's Heart' | Common Dreams
"Defenders of an open, innovative and fair internet are up in arms Thursday after learning the Federal Communications Commission is about to issue new rule proposals that will kill the online principle known as "net neutrality"."
"Defenders of an open, innovative and fair internet are up in arms Thursday after learning the Federal Communications Commission is about to issue new rule proposals that will kill the online principle known as "net neutrality"."
Bernie Sanders Lays The Smack-Down : GOP Freedom Is ‘The Freedom To Die’ (Video)
Bernie Sanders Lays The Smack-Down : GOP Freedom Is ‘The Freedom To Die’ (Video)
"Sanders went on to say that he doesn’t believe that the majority of the people are in favor of the things that the Republicans want to do, things like eliminating Medicare, Social Security and Medicaid and eliminating the minimum wage. They want to strengthen those programs and raise the minimum wage."
"Sanders went on to say that he doesn’t believe that the majority of the people are in favor of the things that the Republicans want to do, things like eliminating Medicare, Social Security and Medicaid and eliminating the minimum wage. They want to strengthen those programs and raise the minimum wage."
Backlash Against Privatization Is Growing In States And Cities Across The US
Backlash Against Privatization Is Growing In States And Cities Across The US
"the real-world track record of privatization is causing a backlash within state and local governments."
"the real-world track record of privatization is causing a backlash within state and local governments."
Wednesday, April 23, 2014
The 1% in America Are Turning into a Ruling Oligarchy at an Astonishing Pace
www.alternet.org/economy/1-america-are-turning-ruling-oligarchy-astonishing-pace
"At state and local levels, while the poorest fifth of Americans pay an average tax rate of over 11 percent, the richest 1% pay half that rate."
"At state and local levels, while the poorest fifth of Americans pay an average tax rate of over 11 percent, the richest 1% pay half that rate."
Tuesday, April 22, 2014
Analysis: America's Middle Class Falters As Nation's Richest Rise | Common Dreams
Analysis: America's Middle Class Falters As Nation's Richest Rise | Common Dreams
"Growth in lower- and middle-income tiers in the U.S. is quickly falling behind other economically "advanced" countries, as average residents in comparable countries have received "considerably larger raises over the last three decades"."
"Growth in lower- and middle-income tiers in the U.S. is quickly falling behind other economically "advanced" countries, as average residents in comparable countries have received "considerably larger raises over the last three decades"."
Elizabeth Warren’s Needed Call for Student Loan Reform | Common Dreams
Elizabeth Warren’s Needed Call for Student Loan Reform | Common Dreams
"Warren first came to Washington to battle a system that has long been rigged against the middle class, where working families’ voices get overpowered by well-funded lobbyists who hold elected officials by the pocket."
"Warren first came to Washington to battle a system that has long been rigged against the middle class, where working families’ voices get overpowered by well-funded lobbyists who hold elected officials by the pocket."
Monday, April 21, 2014
Justice John Paul Stevens Rips The Roberts Court For Protecting The Rich
Justice John Paul Stevens Rips The Roberts Court For Protecting The Rich
"Retired Justice John Paul Stevens ripped John Roberts and his Supreme Court's campaign finance law decisions which he says have given way too much influence for those holding all the money in this country. Who can argue with that?"
"Retired Justice John Paul Stevens ripped John Roberts and his Supreme Court's campaign finance law decisions which he says have given way too much influence for those holding all the money in this country. Who can argue with that?"
Saturday, April 19, 2014
Oklahoma Governor Sides With John Birchers On Minimum Wage
Oklahoma Governor Sides With John Birchers On Minimum Wage
"Oklahoma Governor Mary Fallin signed a ban on minimum wage increases this Monday. Defending her remarkable decision, Fallin issued a press release that indulges all the usual thoroughly-debunked talking points, including the long-discredited notion that only teenagers have minimum wage jobs."
"Oklahoma Governor Mary Fallin signed a ban on minimum wage increases this Monday. Defending her remarkable decision, Fallin issued a press release that indulges all the usual thoroughly-debunked talking points, including the long-discredited notion that only teenagers have minimum wage jobs."
Oligarchy Defined: Koch Brothers Worth $100 Billion, Buy GOP For Just $412 Million
Oligarchy Defined: Koch Brothers Worth $100 Billion, Buy GOP For Just $412 Million
"This is the opposite of democracy: the richest people in the world essentially own an entire political party, and the movement which animates it, at a cost of approximately 0.04% of their fortune. That spending includes all the weird and misleading advertisements driving a wedge between common people and their own interests. It all works to the self-interest of the Kochs, who see themselves as the rightful owners of America, if not the world."
"This is the opposite of democracy: the richest people in the world essentially own an entire political party, and the movement which animates it, at a cost of approximately 0.04% of their fortune. That spending includes all the weird and misleading advertisements driving a wedge between common people and their own interests. It all works to the self-interest of the Kochs, who see themselves as the rightful owners of America, if not the world."
Oklahoma Provides A Win For ALEC’s 50-State Campaign Against Democracy
Oklahoma Provides A Win For ALEC’s 50-State Campaign Against Democracy
"All of this illustrates that with even the most popular laws, the influence of money in politics creates roadblocks that can be difficult to overcome. As Gordon Lafer put it, “You can buy a state legislative race for $50,000 in a lot of places. Most people don’t know who their state legislator is. And so we’ve seen a lot of laws passed that are unpopular with the public, but are being passed by legislators who are backed by corporate lobbies"."
"All of this illustrates that with even the most popular laws, the influence of money in politics creates roadblocks that can be difficult to overcome. As Gordon Lafer put it, “You can buy a state legislative race for $50,000 in a lot of places. Most people don’t know who their state legislator is. And so we’ve seen a lot of laws passed that are unpopular with the public, but are being passed by legislators who are backed by corporate lobbies"."
Friday, April 18, 2014
Could an Unknown Civil Libertarian Unseat Susan Collins? | Common Dreams
Could an Unknown Civil Libertarian Unseat Susan Collins? | Common Dreams
"Bellows is calling the people: nurses and teachers, lobster-boat captains and farmers, students and union activists. And she’s asking them to counter not just big money but a broken politics that values party labels and personalities more than ideals and movements."
"Bellows is calling the people: nurses and teachers, lobster-boat captains and farmers, students and union activists. And she’s asking them to counter not just big money but a broken politics that values party labels and personalities more than ideals and movements."
Krugman: Worried About Oligarchy? You Ain't Seen Nothing Yet | Common Dreams
Krugman: Worried About Oligarchy? You Ain't Seen Nothing Yet | Common Dreams
"And as Krugman explains to Moyers, the implications of a world dominated by the super-wealthy for regular working people is profound."
"And as Krugman explains to Moyers, the implications of a world dominated by the super-wealthy for regular working people is profound."
Bernie Sanders Continues To Hammer Kochs For Extreme Libertarian Agenda
Bernie Sanders Continues To Hammer Kochs For Extreme Libertarian Agenda
"Sen. Bernie Sanders continues to expose the Koch brothers' extreme right wing agenda for America."
"Sen. Bernie Sanders continues to expose the Koch brothers' extreme right wing agenda for America."
Yet Another Legal Transgression For Gov. Chris Christie?
Yet Another Legal Transgression For Gov. Chris Christie?
"New Jersey state pay-to-play statutes prohibit state contractors from directly or indirectly financially supporting the election campaigns of state officials. Yoo hoo, grand jury!"
"New Jersey state pay-to-play statutes prohibit state contractors from directly or indirectly financially supporting the election campaigns of state officials. Yoo hoo, grand jury!"
The Pay's the Thing: How America's CEOs Are Getting Rich Off Taxpayers
The Pay's the Thing: How America's CEOs Are Getting Rich Off Taxpayers
"Thanks to Citizens United and now the McCutcheon decision, the same CEOs who are benefitting from the loophole are much freer to draw upon the corporate coffers to donate big money to politicians to maintain these loopholes."
"Thanks to Citizens United and now the McCutcheon decision, the same CEOs who are benefitting from the loophole are much freer to draw upon the corporate coffers to donate big money to politicians to maintain these loopholes."
The Middle Class Is Not ''Normal''
The Middle Class Is Not ''Normal''
"Creating a middle class is always a choice, and by embracing Reaganomics and cutting taxes on the rich, we decided back in 1980 not to have a middle class within a generation or two. George H.W. Bush saw this, and correctly called it "Voodoo Economics." And we're still in the era of Reaganomics - as President Obama recently pointed out, Reagan was a successful revolutionary."
"Creating a middle class is always a choice, and by embracing Reaganomics and cutting taxes on the rich, we decided back in 1980 not to have a middle class within a generation or two. George H.W. Bush saw this, and correctly called it "Voodoo Economics." And we're still in the era of Reaganomics - as President Obama recently pointed out, Reagan was a successful revolutionary."
Thursday, April 17, 2014
The Disinvestment Budget: Government Investments to Improve Our Economic Future Would be Crushed Under the Recently Passed House Budget
www.americanprogress.org/issues/budget/news/2014/04/16/88090/the-disinvestment-budget-government-investments-to-improve-our-economic-future-would-be-crushed-under-the-recently-passed-house-budget/
"A United States that undergoes the dramatic erosion of regulatory structure, services, and government investments required by this budget would be a United States plagued by anarchy and deprived of the basic infrastructure necessary for growth and prosperity. The 1 percent will do well, but the rest of us will be forced into lives far harsher than those we now have. Let’s hope there are enough people ready to say no."
"A United States that undergoes the dramatic erosion of regulatory structure, services, and government investments required by this budget would be a United States plagued by anarchy and deprived of the basic infrastructure necessary for growth and prosperity. The 1 percent will do well, but the rest of us will be forced into lives far harsher than those we now have. Let’s hope there are enough people ready to say no."
Wednesday, April 16, 2014
CEO Pay Soars As Worker Pay Stagnates | Common Dreams
CEO Pay Soars As Worker Pay Stagnates | Common Dreams
"How’s your job going – if you even have one? The odds are very, very high that you haven’t seen a raise in a long time. Or maybe you were laid off and found a new job at half your old pay. They say this is the “new normal.”
Meanwhile, CEO pay just keeps climbing and climbing and climbing (and climbing and climbing and climbing and climbing and climbing and climbing). This inequality is destabilizing our economy."
"How’s your job going – if you even have one? The odds are very, very high that you haven’t seen a raise in a long time. Or maybe you were laid off and found a new job at half your old pay. They say this is the “new normal.”
Meanwhile, CEO pay just keeps climbing and climbing and climbing (and climbing and climbing and climbing and climbing and climbing and climbing). This inequality is destabilizing our economy."
In Preemptive Strike, Oklahoma Bans Efforts to Increase Minimum Wage | Common Dreams
In Preemptive Strike, Oklahoma Bans Efforts to Increase Minimum Wage | Common Dreams
"In a preemptive strike against local efforts to strengthen workers' rights, Oklahoma Governor Mary Fallin (R) on Tuesday signed into law a measure that forbids all cities and counties in the state from raising the minimum wage any higher than the current federal requirement of $7.25 an hour."
"In a preemptive strike against local efforts to strengthen workers' rights, Oklahoma Governor Mary Fallin (R) on Tuesday signed into law a measure that forbids all cities and counties in the state from raising the minimum wage any higher than the current federal requirement of $7.25 an hour."
Oklahoma Governor Signs Bill Banning Mandatory Minimum Wage, Vacation & Sick Leave
Oklahoma Governor Signs Bill Banning Mandatory Minimum Wage, Vacation & Sick Leave
"Oklahoma Governor Mary Fallin took extraordinary measures to thwart the will of her voters and any progress for her constituents by banning a mandatory minimum wage."
"Oklahoma Governor Mary Fallin took extraordinary measures to thwart the will of her voters and any progress for her constituents by banning a mandatory minimum wage."
Paul Ryan and the GOP's Anti-Robin Hood Spending Plan—Less Money for Poor Kids, More for the Rich
www.alternet.org/news-amp-politics/paul-ryan-and-gops-anti-robin-hood-spending-plan-less-money-starving-kids-more
"Ryan and his right-wing crew focus on the demands of the wealthy and ignore the values of the vast majority of Americans."
"Ryan and his right-wing crew focus on the demands of the wealthy and ignore the values of the vast majority of Americans."
American Democracy No Longer Works
American Democracy No Longer Works
"Thomas Jefferson once said that, "Those seeking profits, were they given total freedom, would not be the ones to trust to keep government pure and our rights secure. Indeed, it has always been those seeking wealth who were the source of corruption in government..."
The only other time in American history when the influences of money and corruption were as rampant as they are today was during the Gilded Age of the late 19th century, and that period of corruption directly led to the crash of 1896, the worst crash we have ever seen."
"Thomas Jefferson once said that, "Those seeking profits, were they given total freedom, would not be the ones to trust to keep government pure and our rights secure. Indeed, it has always been those seeking wealth who were the source of corruption in government..."
The only other time in American history when the influences of money and corruption were as rampant as they are today was during the Gilded Age of the late 19th century, and that period of corruption directly led to the crash of 1896, the worst crash we have ever seen."
SCOTUS To Hear Case About Political Ads Spouting Lies
SCOTUS To Hear Case About Political Ads Spouting Lies
"I would assume that if the Supreme Court were to rule that lying is fine in campaign ads, it's also fine for corporations, so truth in advertising laws would be as dead as our democracy. But never underestimate the Roberts court. I'm sure they can come up with some way to corrupt elections even more than they already are."
"I would assume that if the Supreme Court were to rule that lying is fine in campaign ads, it's also fine for corporations, so truth in advertising laws would be as dead as our democracy. But never underestimate the Roberts court. I'm sure they can come up with some way to corrupt elections even more than they already are."
Tuesday, April 15, 2014
Walmart Gets $7.8 Billion 'Bill' for Its Taxpayer-Funded Breaks, Subsidies | Common Dreams
Walmart Gets $7.8 Billion 'Bill' for Its Taxpayer-Funded Breaks, Subsidies | Common Dreams
"Because Walmart pays such low wages to its employees, many of them depend on taxpayer-funded programs like food stamps to get by. That adds up to roughly $6.2 billion annually."
"Because Walmart pays such low wages to its employees, many of them depend on taxpayer-funded programs like food stamps to get by. That adds up to roughly $6.2 billion annually."
Former Watchdogs Accuse Christie Of Interfering With State Ethics Agency
Former Watchdogs Accuse Christie Of Interfering With State Ethics Agency
"Now, three former commission officials, breaking four years of silence, are accusing the governor’s office of unprecedented interference with an agency set up to be free of political influence. Christie, they say, pushed the agency commissioners to replace the executive director — at a time when she was investigating a member of his own staff — thus crossing a line no other governor had before."
"Now, three former commission officials, breaking four years of silence, are accusing the governor’s office of unprecedented interference with an agency set up to be free of political influence. Christie, they say, pushed the agency commissioners to replace the executive director — at a time when she was investigating a member of his own staff — thus crossing a line no other governor had before."
Governor Bans Minimum Wage Increases And Paid Sick Leave Laws
www.thinkprogress.org/economy/2014/04/15/3426716/oklahoma-ban-minimum-wage-paid-sick-leave/
"At a time when many states and cities are working passing minimum wage increases, Oklahoma Gov. Mary Fallin (R) has gone in the opposite direction and signed a law banning cities from passing higher wages. The bill also bans them from enacting paid sick days or vacation requirements."
"At a time when many states and cities are working passing minimum wage increases, Oklahoma Gov. Mary Fallin (R) has gone in the opposite direction and signed a law banning cities from passing higher wages. The bill also bans them from enacting paid sick days or vacation requirements."
A Reporters' Guide to the Koch-funded Rich States, Poor States ALEC Report
A Reporters' Guide to the Koch-funded Rich States, Poor States ALEC Report
"ALEC brings together corporate lobbyists and state legislators to vote on "model" legislation behind closed doors which are then introduced by ALEC legislators across the country. ALEC is almost entirely funded by industry, including Koch Industries, which has long served on the ALEC board along with Altria/Phllip Morris and Exxon Mobil."
"ALEC brings together corporate lobbyists and state legislators to vote on "model" legislation behind closed doors which are then introduced by ALEC legislators across the country. ALEC is almost entirely funded by industry, including Koch Industries, which has long served on the ALEC board along with Altria/Phllip Morris and Exxon Mobil."
Close the Billionaire Tax Loophole | Common Dreams
Close the Billionaire Tax Loophole | Common Dreams
"If our leaders want to balance the budget, here’s a suggestion: Congress can scrap a new “Paris Hilton” giveaway that’s draining billions of federal tax dollars."
"If our leaders want to balance the budget, here’s a suggestion: Congress can scrap a new “Paris Hilton” giveaway that’s draining billions of federal tax dollars."
Don’t Let Zombie Corporate Tax Breaks Come Back To Life
Don’t Let Zombie Corporate Tax Breaks Come Back To Life
"A great thing happened at the end of 2013: A pack of corporate tax breaks that long ago should have been weeded out of the tax code finally expired due to congressional inaction and were dispatched to the graveyard of tax inequity.
But today, as millions of Americans rush to file their taxes before tonight's midnight deadline, corporate lobbyists are digging up the graveyard and working to bring these tax breaks back from the dead."
"A great thing happened at the end of 2013: A pack of corporate tax breaks that long ago should have been weeded out of the tax code finally expired due to congressional inaction and were dispatched to the graveyard of tax inequity.
But today, as millions of Americans rush to file their taxes before tonight's midnight deadline, corporate lobbyists are digging up the graveyard and working to bring these tax breaks back from the dead."
How a Comcast-Time Warner Merger Will Make Your Cable and Internet Worse and More Expensive
www.alternet.org/news-amp-politics/merger-works-will-make-you-seethe-when-youre-paying-your-cable-bill
"A closer look at TWC-Comcast reveals their claim of "substantial public interest benefits" is anything but."
"A closer look at TWC-Comcast reveals their claim of "substantial public interest benefits" is anything but."
Monday, April 14, 2014
Manhattan DA Opens Investigation Into Port Authority, Christie Administration
Manhattan DA Opens Investigation Into Port Authority, Christie Administration
"Prosecutors in Manhattan opened an investigation into the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey last month, issuing a subpoena for information on major projects and communication between agency officials and Gov. Chris Christie's administration, according to a report by the Wall Street Journal."
"Prosecutors in Manhattan opened an investigation into the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey last month, issuing a subpoena for information on major projects and communication between agency officials and Gov. Chris Christie's administration, according to a report by the Wall Street Journal."
What If the Minimum Wage Were $15 an Hour? | The Nation
What If the Minimum Wage Were $15 an Hour? | The Nation
"As the gears of federal government have ground to a halt, a new energy has been rocking the foundations of our urban centers. From Atlanta to Seattle and points in between, cities have begun seizing the initiative, transforming themselves into laboratories for progressive innovation."
"As the gears of federal government have ground to a halt, a new energy has been rocking the foundations of our urban centers. From Atlanta to Seattle and points in between, cities have begun seizing the initiative, transforming themselves into laboratories for progressive innovation."
Ryan Budget Abandons Innovation Future
www.americanprogress.org/issues/budget/news/2014/04/09/87506/ryan-budget-abandons-innovation-future/
"Rep. Ryan’s proposal, on the other hand, abandons our innovation leadership—and future."
"Rep. Ryan’s proposal, on the other hand, abandons our innovation leadership—and future."
The Hedge Fund Managers Tax Break: Because Wall Streeters Want Your Money
The Hedge Fund Managers Tax Break: Because Wall Streeters Want Your Money
"The hedge fund managers' tax break, which is also known as the carried interest tax deduction, is different from other tax breaks in that it has no economic rationale. With most other tax breaks there is at least an argument as to how it serves some socially useful purpose. That is not the case with the hedge fund managers' tax break. This is simply a case where the rich don't feel like paying taxes and are saying to the rest of us, "what are you going to do about it"?"
"The hedge fund managers' tax break, which is also known as the carried interest tax deduction, is different from other tax breaks in that it has no economic rationale. With most other tax breaks there is at least an argument as to how it serves some socially useful purpose. That is not the case with the hedge fund managers' tax break. This is simply a case where the rich don't feel like paying taxes and are saying to the rest of us, "what are you going to do about it"?"
The Global Banking Game Is Rigged, and the FDIC Is Suing
The Global Banking Game Is Rigged, and the FDIC Is Suing
"Taxpayers are paying billions of dollars for a swindle pulled off by the world’s biggest banks, using a form of derivative called interest-rate swaps; and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation has now joined a chorus of litigants suing over it."
"Taxpayers are paying billions of dollars for a swindle pulled off by the world’s biggest banks, using a form of derivative called interest-rate swaps; and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation has now joined a chorus of litigants suing over it."
Sunday, April 13, 2014
Al Franken Discusses Why He's Against The Comcast Takeover
Al Franken Discusses Why He's Against The Comcast Takeover
"Franken wrote an op-ed for CNN.com and appeared on the channel's Reliable Sources to talk about the dangers of further media consolidation"
"Franken wrote an op-ed for CNN.com and appeared on the channel's Reliable Sources to talk about the dangers of further media consolidation"
The Wall Street Second-Chances Rule: Scandal Makes the Rich Grow Stronger | Common Dreams
The Wall Street Second-Chances Rule: Scandal Makes the Rich Grow Stronger | Common Dreams
"For SAC's Steve Cohen and CEOs like him, money always wins. Who needs retirement – or jail – when you can't lose?"
"For SAC's Steve Cohen and CEOs like him, money always wins. Who needs retirement – or jail – when you can't lose?"
How the Ryan Budget Fails Our Economy by Failing Economics
www.americanprogress.org/issues/budget/report/2014/04/09/87430/how-the-ryan-budget-fails-our-economy-by-failing-economics/
Like the earlier budgets written by Rep. Ryan, this one is not likely to be taken seriously by anyone but House Republicans, nor should it be. It relies on outdated economic theories that would be wrong for our economy’s actual problems even if they were not discredited."
Like the earlier budgets written by Rep. Ryan, this one is not likely to be taken seriously by anyone but House Republicans, nor should it be. It relies on outdated economic theories that would be wrong for our economy’s actual problems even if they were not discredited."
Saturday, April 12, 2014
Evidence of GOP Interference in VW Election Is Now Overwhelming
Evidence of GOP Interference in VW Election Is Now Overwhelming
"The evidence of unlawful interference at Chattanooga is now overwhelming. Republicans intimidated workers and misled them about the implications of their vote. Governor Haslam and Senator Corker deceived them about the nature and extent of their involvement in the campaign. The NLRB must now ensure they do not get away with this outrageous interference."
"The evidence of unlawful interference at Chattanooga is now overwhelming. Republicans intimidated workers and misled them about the implications of their vote. Governor Haslam and Senator Corker deceived them about the nature and extent of their involvement in the campaign. The NLRB must now ensure they do not get away with this outrageous interference."
Bernie Sanders Raises Battle Cry Against Citizens United:
Bernie Sanders Raises Battle Cry Against Citizens United:
"Citizens United is not just the default reference for US Supreme Court decisions—including the 2010 Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission ruling—that have ushered in a new era of corporate dominance of American elections. It’s the name of the conservative group that encouraged Chief Justice John Roberts and the most activist Court majority in American history to tear the heart out of what were already weak campaign finance laws."
"Citizens United is not just the default reference for US Supreme Court decisions—including the 2010 Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission ruling—that have ushered in a new era of corporate dominance of American elections. It’s the name of the conservative group that encouraged Chief Justice John Roberts and the most activist Court majority in American history to tear the heart out of what were already weak campaign finance laws."
The Rot of Wall Street Stinks All the Way to the Bank
www.alternet.org/news-amp-politics/rot-wall-street-stinks-all-way-bank
"Let's review the rap sheet of Wall Street banks: Defrauding investors, cheating homeowners, forgery, rigging markets, tax evasion, credit card ripoffs ... and so sickeningly much more."
"Let's review the rap sheet of Wall Street banks: Defrauding investors, cheating homeowners, forgery, rigging markets, tax evasion, credit card ripoffs ... and so sickeningly much more."
Thanks, Kochs! PBS Infested With White Supremacist Charles Murray
Thanks, Kochs! PBS Infested With White Supremacist Charles Murray
"This is what happens when billionaires take control of public broadcasting after forcing Congress to defund it. They present bogus reports about ways the left and right can "come together" in order to dupe viewers into thinking libertarians give a damn about the social safety net."
"This is what happens when billionaires take control of public broadcasting after forcing Congress to defund it. They present bogus reports about ways the left and right can "come together" in order to dupe viewers into thinking libertarians give a damn about the social safety net."
Bernie Sanders Exposes Koch Brothers' Goals
Bernie Sanders Exposes Koch Brothers' Goals
""Every single one of these ideas is rooted in John Birch Society dogma. Just because Fred Koch left the Birchers back in the day doesn't mean he abandoned their overall goals. His sons are just expanding capacity for them now, not abandoning their principles."
""Every single one of these ideas is rooted in John Birch Society dogma. Just because Fred Koch left the Birchers back in the day doesn't mean he abandoned their overall goals. His sons are just expanding capacity for them now, not abandoning their principles."
Friday, April 11, 2014
What Do the Koch Brothers Really Want? | Common Dreams
What Do the Koch Brothers Really Want? | Common Dreams
"In other words, the agenda of the Koch brothers is not only to defund Obamacare. The agenda of the Koch brothers is to repeal every major piece of legislation that has been signed into law over the past 80 years that has protected the middle class, the elderly, the children, the sick, and the most vulnerable in this country.
"In other words, the agenda of the Koch brothers is not only to defund Obamacare. The agenda of the Koch brothers is to repeal every major piece of legislation that has been signed into law over the past 80 years that has protected the middle class, the elderly, the children, the sick, and the most vulnerable in this country.
It is clear that the Koch brothers and other right wing billionaires are calling the shots and are pulling the strings of the Republican Party."
Thursday, April 10, 2014
Rupert Murdoch: Fox News “has absolutely saved” the GOP
Rupert Murdoch: Fox News “has absolutely saved” the GOP
"The conservative media mogul gives up any pretense that his flagship station is fair and balanced"
"The conservative media mogul gives up any pretense that his flagship station is fair and balanced"
Not One Law Republicans Passed Has Helped America In Over Forty Years
Not One Law Republicans Passed Has Helped America In Over Forty Years
"Everything the GOP stands for is rooted in religiously-based discrimination of some sort. Whether they are quashing the rights of women, the poor and minorities or relinquishing the rights to drink clean water and breathe healthy air, the GOP is always on the wrong side of history. They claim trickle down economics is the magical way the job-creator fairies instinctively share their wealth. Profit-gorging corporations care only about their coveted bottom line: earnings for the shareholders. They are not concerned with the middle class, as companies like Walmart have created the working poor as the new normal. The laws they’ve passed are unimaginably awful."
"Everything the GOP stands for is rooted in religiously-based discrimination of some sort. Whether they are quashing the rights of women, the poor and minorities or relinquishing the rights to drink clean water and breathe healthy air, the GOP is always on the wrong side of history. They claim trickle down economics is the magical way the job-creator fairies instinctively share their wealth. Profit-gorging corporations care only about their coveted bottom line: earnings for the shareholders. They are not concerned with the middle class, as companies like Walmart have created the working poor as the new normal. The laws they’ve passed are unimaginably awful."
Wednesday, April 9, 2014
Rigging the Electoral System for the Rich | Common Dreams
Rigging the Electoral System for the Rich | Common Dreams
"A poll conducted late last year found that more than seven in ten voters think our election system is “biased in favor of the candidate with the most money.”
While nothing about this number is surprising — except, perhaps, that it’s not even higher — it does reveal the depth of cynicism characterizing Americans’ perceptions of our political system. We believe, correctly, that the system is rigged for the rich.
Especially in the wake of this month’s McCutcheon v. FEC Supreme Court decision that allowed our country’s wealthiest to dump even more money directly into our elections, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the enormity of America’s money in politics problem."
"A poll conducted late last year found that more than seven in ten voters think our election system is “biased in favor of the candidate with the most money.”
While nothing about this number is surprising — except, perhaps, that it’s not even higher — it does reveal the depth of cynicism characterizing Americans’ perceptions of our political system. We believe, correctly, that the system is rigged for the rich.
Especially in the wake of this month’s McCutcheon v. FEC Supreme Court decision that allowed our country’s wealthiest to dump even more money directly into our elections, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the enormity of America’s money in politics problem."
Sen. Elizabeth Warren's Rep. Paul Ryan Take-Down | Common Dreams
Sen. Elizabeth Warren's Rep. Paul Ryan Take-Down | Common Dreams
"The Massachusetts Democrat made the remarks as the keynote speaker at the Minnesota Democratic-Farmer-Labor's Humphrey-Mondale Dinner on March 29th, a fundraising event for the party of Paul Wellstone."
"The Massachusetts Democrat made the remarks as the keynote speaker at the Minnesota Democratic-Farmer-Labor's Humphrey-Mondale Dinner on March 29th, a fundraising event for the party of Paul Wellstone."
Why the Minimum Wage Should Really Be Raised to $15 an Hour | Common Dreams
Why the Minimum Wage Should Really Be Raised to $15 an Hour | Common Dreams
"Momentum is building to raise the minimum wage. Several states have already taken action — Connecticut has boosted it to $10.10 by 2017, the Maryland legislature just approved a similar measure, Minnesota lawmakers just reached a deal to hike it to $9.50. A few cities have been more ambitious — Washington, D.C. and its surrounding counties raised it to $11.50, Seattle is considering $15.00"
"Momentum is building to raise the minimum wage. Several states have already taken action — Connecticut has boosted it to $10.10 by 2017, the Maryland legislature just approved a similar measure, Minnesota lawmakers just reached a deal to hike it to $9.50. A few cities have been more ambitious — Washington, D.C. and its surrounding counties raised it to $11.50, Seattle is considering $15.00"
Lobbyists behind SOPA now wooing Silicon Valley companies
www.rawstory.com/rs/2014/04/08/lobbyists-behind-sopa-now-wooing-silicon-valley-companies/
"The US Chamber was the main outside lobbying group (beyond the MPAA) that was behind SOPA and PIPA, and was a major voice pushing completely ridiculously bogus "facts" about the evils of "IP theft" and "rogue sites"."
"The US Chamber was the main outside lobbying group (beyond the MPAA) that was behind SOPA and PIPA, and was a major voice pushing completely ridiculously bogus "facts" about the evils of "IP theft" and "rogue sites"."
Tuesday, April 8, 2014
Outside Special Interests Lean on MO Legislators to Push ALEC’s Anti-Worker Agenda
Outside Special Interests Lean on MO Legislators to Push ALEC’s Anti-Worker Agenda
"The Missouri chapter of the Koch brothers' Americans for Prosperity has launched an online petition urging legislators to pass "right to work" legislation."
"The Missouri chapter of the Koch brothers' Americans for Prosperity has launched an online petition urging legislators to pass "right to work" legislation."
Equal Pay Day: A Reminder that Women (and Men!) Deserve More
Equal Pay Day: A Reminder that Women (and Men!) Deserve More
"We should be defining success in closing the gender wage gap by women catching up to men while both men and women share in overall growth. Congress has some great tools at their disposal to do this. Passing the Paycheck Fairness Act would be a great first step. In addition to prohibiting wage discrimination among women and men, the Paycheck Fairness Act incentivizes greater transparency between employers and employees, by collecting pay information data and providing information on how to reduce pay disparities for employers and labor organizations."
"We should be defining success in closing the gender wage gap by women catching up to men while both men and women share in overall growth. Congress has some great tools at their disposal to do this. Passing the Paycheck Fairness Act would be a great first step. In addition to prohibiting wage discrimination among women and men, the Paycheck Fairness Act incentivizes greater transparency between employers and employees, by collecting pay information data and providing information on how to reduce pay disparities for employers and labor organizations."
How to Make the Labor Market Work for Women
How to Make the Labor Market Work for Women
"Today is Equal Pay Day, which means that policymakers, including the president, are talking about how to close the gender wage gap. In 2013, the typical female worker made $15.10 an hour, while the typical male worker made $18.11 an hour. And the gap in wages between women and men extends beyond those at the middle; it affects earners at all wage levels. High-wage women make less than high-wage men, and low-wage women make less than low-wage men.
A key backdrop to any discussion of how gender wage gaps have evolved is the fact that since the 1970s, the country has seen dramatically rising wage inequality among both men and women."
"Today is Equal Pay Day, which means that policymakers, including the president, are talking about how to close the gender wage gap. In 2013, the typical female worker made $15.10 an hour, while the typical male worker made $18.11 an hour. And the gap in wages between women and men extends beyond those at the middle; it affects earners at all wage levels. High-wage women make less than high-wage men, and low-wage women make less than low-wage men.
A key backdrop to any discussion of how gender wage gaps have evolved is the fact that since the 1970s, the country has seen dramatically rising wage inequality among both men and women."
David Wildstein Hammers Nails In Coffin Of Christie's 2016 Dreams
David Wildstein Hammers Nails In Coffin Of Christie's 2016 Dreams
"Bad news for Chris Christie -- and very good news for the citizens of New Jersey"
"Bad news for Chris Christie -- and very good news for the citizens of New Jersey"
NYC Parents vs. Wall Street-Backed Charter Schools | Common Dreams
NYC Parents vs. Wall Street-Backed Charter Schools | Common Dreams
"Parents and public school advocates staged a dramatic protest outside the New York City Department of Education on Tuesday against a bid, backed by Governor Andrew Cuomo and financed by Wall Street lobbyists, to evict special needs students in order to make room for charter school expansion."
"Parents and public school advocates staged a dramatic protest outside the New York City Department of Education on Tuesday against a bid, backed by Governor Andrew Cuomo and financed by Wall Street lobbyists, to evict special needs students in order to make room for charter school expansion."
Meet 5 Greedy Big Businesses Who Rip Off Taxpayers
www.alternet.org/economy/corporate-tax-dodgers
"Did you pay your taxes? Much of the corporate world tap-danced right around their obligations."
"Did you pay your taxes? Much of the corporate world tap-danced right around their obligations."
Monday, April 7, 2014
E.J. Dionne, Jr.: Party Loyalty: Why the Supreme Court Is Wrecking Our Democracy - Truthdig
E.J. Dionne, Jr.: Party Loyalty: Why the Supreme Court Is Wrecking Our Democracy - Truthdig
"An oligarchy, Webster’s dictionary tells us, is “a form of government in which the ruling power belongs to a few persons.” It’s a shame that the Republican majority on the Supreme Court doesn’t know the difference between an oligarchy and a democratic republic."
"An oligarchy, Webster’s dictionary tells us, is “a form of government in which the ruling power belongs to a few persons.” It’s a shame that the Republican majority on the Supreme Court doesn’t know the difference between an oligarchy and a democratic republic."
The Supreme Court Just Gave You One More Reason To Join the Clean Elections Movement
The Supreme Court Just Gave You One More Reason To Join the Clean Elections Movement
"Given the power of the Supreme Court, there are only two ways to fix the Citizens United and McCutcheon decisions: The first is to get justices on the Supreme Court who don't think allowing the rich to spend vast sums on elections is simply a form of free speech, and who are ready to reverse these decisions. Given their dissents, we likely already have four such justices. The second is to pass a constitutional amendment to overrule these two decisions."
"Given the power of the Supreme Court, there are only two ways to fix the Citizens United and McCutcheon decisions: The first is to get justices on the Supreme Court who don't think allowing the rich to spend vast sums on elections is simply a form of free speech, and who are ready to reverse these decisions. Given their dissents, we likely already have four such justices. The second is to pass a constitutional amendment to overrule these two decisions."
Documents from Open Records Lawsuit Further Undermine Claims that ALEC Is Legislator-Driven
Documents from Open Records Lawsuit Further Undermine Claims that ALEC Is Legislator-Driven
"New documents released as a result of the Center for Media and Democracy's open records lawsuit against American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC) vice-chair Senator Leah Vukmir provide more evidence that lobbyists and special interest groups are calling the shots within ALEC, undermining that group's latest PR spin that it is a "legislator-driven" organization.
The previously-undisclosed records from ALEC's Spring 2013 meeting show a Florida-based State Policy Network lobbying group instructing Senator Vukmir and other legislators to introduce a "model" resolution for legislators to thwart Medicaid expansion in their state, and even writing an entire "script" for legislators to parrot in the ALEC task force meeting -- contradicting ALEC's claims to reporters last year that only legislators propose model policy, and demonstrating that such claims are merely a talking point."
"New documents released as a result of the Center for Media and Democracy's open records lawsuit against American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC) vice-chair Senator Leah Vukmir provide more evidence that lobbyists and special interest groups are calling the shots within ALEC, undermining that group's latest PR spin that it is a "legislator-driven" organization.
The previously-undisclosed records from ALEC's Spring 2013 meeting show a Florida-based State Policy Network lobbying group instructing Senator Vukmir and other legislators to introduce a "model" resolution for legislators to thwart Medicaid expansion in their state, and even writing an entire "script" for legislators to parrot in the ALEC task force meeting -- contradicting ALEC's claims to reporters last year that only legislators propose model policy, and demonstrating that such claims are merely a talking point."
Can't We Just Say the Roberts Court Is Corrupt?
Can't We Just Say the Roberts Court Is Corrupt?
"The Supreme Court's decision in McCutcheon v. Federal Election Commission was not about aggregate limits on individual campaign donations to candidates in federal elections. The case was about what constitutes a bribe, how big that bribe has to be, and whether an electoral system can be corrupt even in the absence of a legally demonstrable cash payment to an office holder or candidate for an explicitly specified favor."
"The Supreme Court's decision in McCutcheon v. Federal Election Commission was not about aggregate limits on individual campaign donations to candidates in federal elections. The case was about what constitutes a bribe, how big that bribe has to be, and whether an electoral system can be corrupt even in the absence of a legally demonstrable cash payment to an office holder or candidate for an explicitly specified favor."
Meet America’s most progressive Senate nominee: Shenna Bellows of Maine
Meet America’s most progressive Senate nominee: Shenna Bellows of Maine
"Bellows urged that the government legalize marijuana, break up big banks, institute “Medicare for All,” repeal the Patriot Act, halt mass surveillance, tax financial transactions, expand Social Security, reject the Keystone Pipeline, turn away from education privatization and extend Civil Rights Act protections to LGBT people. She hedged on whether she’d support the Assault Weapons Ban, and on whether heroin should ultimately be decriminalized. A condensed version of our conversation follows."
"Bellows urged that the government legalize marijuana, break up big banks, institute “Medicare for All,” repeal the Patriot Act, halt mass surveillance, tax financial transactions, expand Social Security, reject the Keystone Pipeline, turn away from education privatization and extend Civil Rights Act protections to LGBT people. She hedged on whether she’d support the Assault Weapons Ban, and on whether heroin should ultimately be decriminalized. A condensed version of our conversation follows."
Occupy activist assaulted by cop, faces seven years in prison
Occupy activist assaulted by cop, faces seven years in prison
"Cecily McMillan's ongoing ordeal with the NYPD is a reminder that radical dissent is still so necessary"
"Cecily McMillan's ongoing ordeal with the NYPD is a reminder that radical dissent is still so necessary"
Elizabeth Warren Rips Paul Ryan And Ted Cruz
Elizabeth Warren Rips Paul Ryan And Ted Cruz
"Elizabeth Warren takes on Ted Cruz and Paul Ryan in a speech at the Minnesota Humphrey-Mondale dinner for Al Franken"
"Elizabeth Warren takes on Ted Cruz and Paul Ryan in a speech at the Minnesota Humphrey-Mondale dinner for Al Franken"
McCutcheon Took Us Back In Time, But It Might Just Birth the Next Occupy | Common Dreams
McCutcheon Took Us Back In Time, But It Might Just Birth the Next Occupy | Common Dreams
"The supreme court is composed of five justices appointed by Republican presidents, and four appointed by Democratic ones. In the McCutcheon v FEC case decided on Wednesday, the five Republican appointees interpreted the first amendment to protect the right of individuals to pour as much as $3.6m into a political party or $800,000 into a political campaign.
The decision by those justices allows individual donors to buy – and federal officeholders to solicit – unparalleled personal influence in Washington. McCutcheon drowns out the voices of ordinary citizens."
"The supreme court is composed of five justices appointed by Republican presidents, and four appointed by Democratic ones. In the McCutcheon v FEC case decided on Wednesday, the five Republican appointees interpreted the first amendment to protect the right of individuals to pour as much as $3.6m into a political party or $800,000 into a political campaign.
The decision by those justices allows individual donors to buy – and federal officeholders to solicit – unparalleled personal influence in Washington. McCutcheon drowns out the voices of ordinary citizens."
Swiss Bank May Have To Plead Guilty To Helping Americans Avoid Taxes
www.thinkprogress.org/economy/2014/04/07/3423646/credit-suisse-tax-evasion-investigation/
"A giant Swiss bank that is already bracing for a billion-dollar legal bill for helping Americans cheat on their taxes may also have to plead guilty to criminal charges in order to resolve a Justice Department (DOJ) investigation. The news comes alongside reports of another investigation from a New York regulator with a reputation for playing hardball on white collar crime."
"A giant Swiss bank that is already bracing for a billion-dollar legal bill for helping Americans cheat on their taxes may also have to plead guilty to criminal charges in order to resolve a Justice Department (DOJ) investigation. The news comes alongside reports of another investigation from a New York regulator with a reputation for playing hardball on white collar crime."
8 Things Mainstream Media Doesn't Have the Courage to Tell You
www.alternet.org/media/8-things-mainstream-media-doesnt-have-courage-tell-you
"The following are all relevant, fact-based issues, the "hard news" stories that the media has a responsibility to report. But the business-oriented press generally avoids them."
"The following are all relevant, fact-based issues, the "hard news" stories that the media has a responsibility to report. But the business-oriented press generally avoids them."
Wall Street Targets GOP Critic of Big Money and Big Banks for Primary Defeat | The Nation
Wall Street Targets GOP Critic of Big Money and Big Banks for Primary Defeat | The Nation
"Now, however, Jones faces a Republican primary challenge from a classic Washington power player, Taylor Griffin, a former aide to the campaigns of George W. Bush and John McCain who has been a consultant for big banks and trade groups and who put in a stint as the senior vice president for the Financial Services Forum, the DC voice of some of the biggest Wall Street banks."
"Now, however, Jones faces a Republican primary challenge from a classic Washington power player, Taylor Griffin, a former aide to the campaigns of George W. Bush and John McCain who has been a consultant for big banks and trade groups and who put in a stint as the senior vice president for the Financial Services Forum, the DC voice of some of the biggest Wall Street banks."
Sunday, April 6, 2014
Food Stamps Don't Keep Walmart's Prices Low, They Keep Its Profits High
www.alternet.org/labor/food-stamps-dont-keep-walmarts-prices-low-they-keep-its-profits-high
"The truth is that Walmart and all the other large and profitable retailers, fast food companies, and other corporations that fatten their bottom line by letting the public feed their employees have made a business decision to shrink their payroll on the taxpayer's dime. It's up to us to decide whether to continue allowing them to do it."
"The truth is that Walmart and all the other large and profitable retailers, fast food companies, and other corporations that fatten their bottom line by letting the public feed their employees have made a business decision to shrink their payroll on the taxpayer's dime. It's up to us to decide whether to continue allowing them to do it."
Goldman Sachs’ sick con: How they made money off your misery
Goldman Sachs’ sick con: How they made money off your misery
"Documents and emails show manipulation was part of the game at Goldman -- and what led them to win big on the crash"
"Documents and emails show manipulation was part of the game at Goldman -- and what led them to win big on the crash"
Saturday, April 5, 2014
Dan Backer’s Revealing Victory Lap After McCutcheon v FEC Decision
Dan Backer’s Revealing Victory Lap After McCutcheon v FEC Decision
"In his world, money is speech, and must therefore be free — but anyone who disagrees should not be free to speak to their elected legislators about remedies, because freedom. Backer might as well declare himself the chief apologist for oligarchy."
"In his world, money is speech, and must therefore be free — but anyone who disagrees should not be free to speak to their elected legislators about remedies, because freedom. Backer might as well declare himself the chief apologist for oligarchy."
GOP Senator Reads Entire Koch WSJ Op-Ed
GOP Senator Reads Entire Koch WSJ Op-Ed
"Eric Dolan over at Raw Story noted via Searchlight that Koch Industries are the #1 sponsor of Senator Jerry Moran. Imagine that."
"Eric Dolan over at Raw Story noted via Searchlight that Koch Industries are the #1 sponsor of Senator Jerry Moran. Imagine that."
Boehner Happily Applauds Supreme Court Decision, Calls Unlimited Campaign Donations ‘Freedom’
www.addictinginfo.org/2014/04/05/boehner-happily-applauds-supreme-court-decision-calls-unlimited-campaign-donations-freedom/
"The Constitution and all its amendments are supposed to apply to everyone equally. What’s happened now, and what Boehner is cheering, is the idea that money equals speech. That makes the rich more equal than everyone else under the First Amendment, and they have freer speech than us little people now. Boehner just proved beyond doubt that he doesn’t care about anybody but the rich."
"The Constitution and all its amendments are supposed to apply to everyone equally. What’s happened now, and what Boehner is cheering, is the idea that money equals speech. That makes the rich more equal than everyone else under the First Amendment, and they have freer speech than us little people now. Boehner just proved beyond doubt that he doesn’t care about anybody but the rich."
This Is Ridiculous: Freedom Of Speech Has Nothing To Do With Money
www.forwardprogressives.com/ridiculous-freedom-speech-nothing-money/
"If money is speech that instantly means that speech is no longer free. It also means that “liberty” and “freedom” are now on the auction block for those who have the most money to buy it. Because that’s exactly what happens when you say that money equals speech. By doing that you’re giving those with the most money the loudest voices."
"If money is speech that instantly means that speech is no longer free. It also means that “liberty” and “freedom” are now on the auction block for those who have the most money to buy it. Because that’s exactly what happens when you say that money equals speech. By doing that you’re giving those with the most money the loudest voices."
Majority Report: Koch Brother Whines About The Oppressed Rich
Majority Report: Koch Brother Whines About The Oppressed Rich
"The Majority Report's Sam Seder gives his take on Charles Koch's Wall Street Journal op-ed, whining about how those evil "collectivists" are oppressing his freedom of speech."
"The Majority Report's Sam Seder gives his take on Charles Koch's Wall Street Journal op-ed, whining about how those evil "collectivists" are oppressing his freedom of speech."
Friday, April 4, 2014
Christie’s bullying ways return: Protestors ejected for daring to question bridge flap
Christie’s bullying ways return: Protestors ejected for daring to question bridge flap
"Christie critics handing out flyers at town hall get screened by police and kicked out. This is accountability?"
"Christie critics handing out flyers at town hall get screened by police and kicked out. This is accountability?"
Occupy Charity Buys $15 Million Of Americans’ Medical Debt And Cancels It!
Occupy Charity Buys $15 Million Of Americans’ Medical Debt And Cancels It!
"Almost 4,000 indebted Americans have had their medical bills wiped out after a group of activists from Occupy Wall Street purchased and cancelled nearly $15 million of medical debt."
"Almost 4,000 indebted Americans have had their medical bills wiped out after a group of activists from Occupy Wall Street purchased and cancelled nearly $15 million of medical debt."
Fox News Says Overtime Pay Is Harmful To The American 'Work Ethic'
Fox News Says Overtime Pay Is Harmful To The American 'Work Ethic'
"Has anybody at Fox News actually had a job that real middle class Americans do? Because if you want to be paid for overtime, now you're a moocher destroying the American dream."
"Has anybody at Fox News actually had a job that real middle class Americans do? Because if you want to be paid for overtime, now you're a moocher destroying the American dream."
McCutcheon, and the Vicious Cycle of Concentrated Wealth and Political Power | Common Dreams
McCutcheon, and the Vicious Cycle of Concentrated Wealth and Political Power | Common Dreams
"the richest four hundred Americans now have more wealth than the poorest 150 million Americans put together, the wealthiest 1 percent own over 35 percent of the nation’s private assets, and 95 percent of all the economic gains since the start of the recovery in 2009 have gone to the top 1 percent — all of this is cause for worry, and not just because it means the middle class lacks the purchasing power necessary to get the economy out of first gear.
"the richest four hundred Americans now have more wealth than the poorest 150 million Americans put together, the wealthiest 1 percent own over 35 percent of the nation’s private assets, and 95 percent of all the economic gains since the start of the recovery in 2009 have gone to the top 1 percent — all of this is cause for worry, and not just because it means the middle class lacks the purchasing power necessary to get the economy out of first gear.
It is also worrisome because such great concentrations of wealth so readily compound themselves through politics, rigging the game in their favor and against everyone else. “McCutcheon” merely accelerates this vicious cycle."
Wall Street's High-Tech Rip-Off
www.alternet.org/economy/wall-streets-high-tech-rip
"Dangerous and predatory high-frequency trading is bad for markets, bad for regular people and bad for society."
"Dangerous and predatory high-frequency trading is bad for markets, bad for regular people and bad for society."
Thursday, April 3, 2014
Why Inequality Matters and What Can Be Done About It
Why Inequality Matters and What Can Be Done About It
"In the past, when our country reached these extremes of inequality, at the end of the 19th century, in the gilded age, or in the Roaring 20s, it pulled back from the brink. It enacted policies and programs that provided hope that the American dream could return to being a reality.
We are now at one of these pivotal points in history. I hope we once again will make the right decisions. You and your committee, in the budget decisions that you will be making, play a vital role in setting the country in the right direction."
"In the past, when our country reached these extremes of inequality, at the end of the 19th century, in the gilded age, or in the Roaring 20s, it pulled back from the brink. It enacted policies and programs that provided hope that the American dream could return to being a reality.
We are now at one of these pivotal points in history. I hope we once again will make the right decisions. You and your committee, in the budget decisions that you will be making, play a vital role in setting the country in the right direction."
McCutcheon, the Majority and the Challenge of Our Time | Common Dreams
McCutcheon, the Majority and the Challenge of Our Time | Common Dreams
"The immediate effect of this ruling is to give the wealthy even more political power than they have today. That’s diametrically opposed to the people’s will, since the public clearly wants money out of politics."
"The immediate effect of this ruling is to give the wealthy even more political power than they have today. That’s diametrically opposed to the people’s will, since the public clearly wants money out of politics."
What Corruption? McCutcheon Reveals Absurdity of Citizens United
What Corruption? McCutcheon Reveals Absurdity of Citizens United
"The U.S. Supreme Court's 5-4 ruling in McCutcheon v. Federal Election Commission may actually undermine the Court's reasoning in Citizens United that unlimited spending from Super PACs pose no risk of corruption."
"The U.S. Supreme Court's 5-4 ruling in McCutcheon v. Federal Election Commission may actually undermine the Court's reasoning in Citizens United that unlimited spending from Super PACs pose no risk of corruption."
Sen. Sanders: Supreme Court Undermines Democracy By Allowing Billionaires To Buy Elections
Sen. Sanders: Supreme Court Undermines Democracy By Allowing Billionaires To Buy Elections
"Sen. Bernie Sanders discusses the latest disastrous ruling to come out of the Supreme Court, giving the likes of the Koch brothers even more power to buy our elections."
"Sen. Bernie Sanders discusses the latest disastrous ruling to come out of the Supreme Court, giving the likes of the Koch brothers even more power to buy our elections."
Billionaires’ crybaby club: Someone get these whiners a bottle!
Billionaires’ crybaby club: Someone get these whiners a bottle!
"An epidemic of self-pity among the wealthy raises questions about the mental health of the top of the top 1 percent"
"An epidemic of self-pity among the wealthy raises questions about the mental health of the top of the top 1 percent"
A Blistering Dissent In ‘McCutcheon’: Conservatives Substituted Opinion For Fact
A Blistering Dissent In ‘McCutcheon’: Conservatives Substituted Opinion For Fact
"Taken together with Citizens United, Breyer writes that McCutcheon “eviscerates our Nation’s campaign finance laws, leaving a remnant incapable of dealing with the grave problems of democratic legitimacy that those laws were intended to resolve"."
"Taken together with Citizens United, Breyer writes that McCutcheon “eviscerates our Nation’s campaign finance laws, leaving a remnant incapable of dealing with the grave problems of democratic legitimacy that those laws were intended to resolve"."
Ryan vs. Progressive Caucus: Competing Visions on the Federal Budget | Common Dreams
Ryan vs. Progressive Caucus: Competing Visions on the Federal Budget | Common Dreams
"On Tuesday, we at the National Priorities Project released our fourth annual, one-of-a-kindCompeting Visions analysis, which compares the president’s fiscal year 2015 budget proposal to two significantly different visions – the House Republican budget resolution, introduced by Rep. Paul Ryan, and an alternative introduced by the House Congressional Progressive Caucus (CPC)."
"On Tuesday, we at the National Priorities Project released our fourth annual, one-of-a-kindCompeting Visions analysis, which compares the president’s fiscal year 2015 budget proposal to two significantly different visions – the House Republican budget resolution, introduced by Rep. Paul Ryan, and an alternative introduced by the House Congressional Progressive Caucus (CPC)."
The American Government Is Open for Corruption | Common Dreams
The American Government Is Open for Corruption | Common Dreams
"The remarkable story of how we have come to privatize political corruption in this country reached another milestone Wednesday as the Supreme Court"
"The remarkable story of how we have come to privatize political corruption in this country reached another milestone Wednesday as the Supreme Court"
Wednesday, April 2, 2014
How Paul Ryan's Budget Paves the Way for Another Financial Crisis | The Nation
How Paul Ryan's Budget Paves the Way for Another Financial Crisis | The Nation
"Ryan's budget not only gives Wall Street more leeway to act recklessly, but makes it more likely that average Americans face the consequences."
"Ryan's budget not only gives Wall Street more leeway to act recklessly, but makes it more likely that average Americans face the consequences."
Charles Keating and the Lessons of the Savings and Loan Crisis
Charles Keating and the Lessons of the Savings and Loan Crisis
"After Reagan deregulated the savings and loans in the early 1980s, Charles Keating made millions of dollars through risky investments that ripped off the people who invested in two of the companies he ran, American Continental Corporation and Lincoln Savings and Loan.
Tens of thousands of everyday Americans, many of them senior citizens, lost millions of dollars on the junk bonds Keating sold to them.
Keating was protected from federal regulators for a while by a group of senators, including John McCain, but by 1989 the gig was up. American Continental went bankrupt and Lincoln Continental was seized by the government. This was the largest bank failure of the savings and loan (S&L) crisis of the 1980s and 1990s
Ethically and logistically, there's very little difference between what Keating did 25 years ago during the savings and loans debacle and what Wall Street banksters did in the lead-up to the 2008 financial meltdown."
"After Reagan deregulated the savings and loans in the early 1980s, Charles Keating made millions of dollars through risky investments that ripped off the people who invested in two of the companies he ran, American Continental Corporation and Lincoln Savings and Loan.
Tens of thousands of everyday Americans, many of them senior citizens, lost millions of dollars on the junk bonds Keating sold to them.
Keating was protected from federal regulators for a while by a group of senators, including John McCain, but by 1989 the gig was up. American Continental went bankrupt and Lincoln Continental was seized by the government. This was the largest bank failure of the savings and loan (S&L) crisis of the 1980s and 1990s
Ethically and logistically, there's very little difference between what Keating did 25 years ago during the savings and loans debacle and what Wall Street banksters did in the lead-up to the 2008 financial meltdown."
With McCutcheon Ruling, An Activist Court Opts for Full-On Plutocracy | Common Dreams
With McCutcheon Ruling, An Activist Court Opts for Full-On Plutocracy | Common Dreams
"Any doubts about the determination of an activist United States Supreme Court to rewrite election rules so that the dollar matters more than the vote were removed Wednesday, when McCutcheon v. Federal Election Commission was decided in favor of the dollar.
The court that in 2010, with its Citizens United v. FEC decision, cleared the way for corporations to spend as freely as they choose to buy elections has now effectively eliminated the ability of the American people and their elected representatives to establish meaningful limits on direct donations by millionaires and billionaires to campaigns."
"Any doubts about the determination of an activist United States Supreme Court to rewrite election rules so that the dollar matters more than the vote were removed Wednesday, when McCutcheon v. Federal Election Commission was decided in favor of the dollar.
The court that in 2010, with its Citizens United v. FEC decision, cleared the way for corporations to spend as freely as they choose to buy elections has now effectively eliminated the ability of the American people and their elected representatives to establish meaningful limits on direct donations by millionaires and billionaires to campaigns."
Wage Theft is a Bigger Problem Than Other Theft—But Not Enough is Done to Protect Workers | Economic Policy Institute
Wage Theft is a Bigger Problem Than Other Theft—But Not Enough is Done to Protect Workers | Economic Policy Institute
"Wage theft is a far bigger problem than bank robberies, convenience store robberies, street and highway robberies, and gas station robberies combined. Employers steal billions of dollars from their employees each year by working them off the clock, by failing to pay the minimum wage, or by cheating them of overtime pay they have a right to receive."
"Wage theft is a far bigger problem than bank robberies, convenience store robberies, street and highway robberies, and gas station robberies combined. Employers steal billions of dollars from their employees each year by working them off the clock, by failing to pay the minimum wage, or by cheating them of overtime pay they have a right to receive."
Paul Ryan's Budget: Double Down On Failure
Paul Ryan's Budget: Double Down On Failure
"This is the Ryan vision: pursue more of the same policies that got us in the mess we are in. More trickle down tax cuts. More austerity. More subsidies for global corporations, private insurance, big oil. More money for the Pentagon. More severity for the vulnerable. More insecurity for seniors and the disabled.
We suffer slow growth and an economy that does not work for working people. The richest 1% is capturing virtually all the rewards of growth. The middle class is sinking, even as the cost of necessities like education and health care continue to rise. We’re policing the world, while ignoring vital investments at home, building baroque weapons while climate change exacts increasingly catastrophic costs.
For Paul Ryan and Republicans, once you get past the soft shoe routine, ignore the slights of hand, and decode the doublespeak, the remedy is clear: double down on the very policies that got us where we are. It is lucky for Republicans that most Americans will never figure out about just how callous and wrong-headed they are."
"This is the Ryan vision: pursue more of the same policies that got us in the mess we are in. More trickle down tax cuts. More austerity. More subsidies for global corporations, private insurance, big oil. More money for the Pentagon. More severity for the vulnerable. More insecurity for seniors and the disabled.
We suffer slow growth and an economy that does not work for working people. The richest 1% is capturing virtually all the rewards of growth. The middle class is sinking, even as the cost of necessities like education and health care continue to rise. We’re policing the world, while ignoring vital investments at home, building baroque weapons while climate change exacts increasingly catastrophic costs.
For Paul Ryan and Republicans, once you get past the soft shoe routine, ignore the slights of hand, and decode the doublespeak, the remedy is clear: double down on the very policies that got us where we are. It is lucky for Republicans that most Americans will never figure out about just how callous and wrong-headed they are."
The Supreme Court Just Put America Up For Sale
www.addictinginfo.org/2014/04/02/supreme-court-just-put-america-sale/
"This court decision is just the status quo for the Roberts Court. He has overseen the largest dismantling of voting rights in US history with his support of the fledgling American Plutocracy
and their fight to eliminate the rights of “lesser” citizens to have a voice in their governance.
America is now directly up for sale to the highest bidder. Money is the only voice which matters in Robert’s America."
"This court decision is just the status quo for the Roberts Court. He has overseen the largest dismantling of voting rights in US history with his support of the fledgling American Plutocracy
and their fight to eliminate the rights of “lesser” citizens to have a voice in their governance.
America is now directly up for sale to the highest bidder. Money is the only voice which matters in Robert’s America."
A Supreme Court out of control! How McCutcheon will spur corruption and inequality
A Supreme Court out of control! How McCutcheon will spur corruption and inequality
"That clanging sound you hear is the Supreme Court, hammering the final nails into democracy’s casket. With Wednesday’s decision in McCutcheon v. FEC, the court has crossed the line protecting the last vestige of campaign finance reform, and making it official: Rule by the rich is now unfettered. Plutocracy’s moment has arrived."
"That clanging sound you hear is the Supreme Court, hammering the final nails into democracy’s casket. With Wednesday’s decision in McCutcheon v. FEC, the court has crossed the line protecting the last vestige of campaign finance reform, and making it official: Rule by the rich is now unfettered. Plutocracy’s moment has arrived."
The Supreme Court’s Ideology: More Money, Less Voting | The Nation
The Supreme Court’s Ideology: More Money, Less Voting | The Nation
"In the past four years, under the leadership of Chief Justice John Roberts, the Supreme Court has made it far easier to buy an election and far harder to vote in one."
"In the past four years, under the leadership of Chief Justice John Roberts, the Supreme Court has made it far easier to buy an election and far harder to vote in one."
RNC's Priebus Lauds SCOTUS Decision On Spending Limits
RNC's Priebus Lauds SCOTUS Decision On Spending Limits
"RNC Chair Reince Priebus pretended not to have an opinion about whether or not it's a problem that we've got too much money in politics, but he was more than happy to continue with is praise of the Supreme Court's ruling this Wednesday, striking down aggregate limits on campaign donations, and claiming they violate the First Amendment."
"RNC Chair Reince Priebus pretended not to have an opinion about whether or not it's a problem that we've got too much money in politics, but he was more than happy to continue with is praise of the Supreme Court's ruling this Wednesday, striking down aggregate limits on campaign donations, and claiming they violate the First Amendment."
How The Supreme Court Just Legalized Money Laundering By Rich Campaign Donors
www.thinkprogress.org/justice/2014/04/02/3422036/how-the-supreme-court-just-legalized-money-laundering-by-rich-campaign-donors/
"Chief Justice John Roberts begins his opinion in McCutcheon v. FEC with a flourish: “[t]here is no right more basic in our democracy than the right to participate in electing our political leaders.” He then spends the next forty pages explaining why that participation includes the right of rich people to attempt to buy elections."
"Chief Justice John Roberts begins his opinion in McCutcheon v. FEC with a flourish: “[t]here is no right more basic in our democracy than the right to participate in electing our political leaders.” He then spends the next forty pages explaining why that participation includes the right of rich people to attempt to buy elections."
Supreme Court’s abomination: How McCutcheon decision will destroy American politics
Supreme Court’s abomination: How McCutcheon decision will destroy American politics
"Thanks to Scalia and co., the rich will now be able to buy politicians as effortlessly as they buy anything else"
"Thanks to Scalia and co., the rich will now be able to buy politicians as effortlessly as they buy anything else"
Tuesday, April 1, 2014
The Ryan Budget Is a Broken Record of Failed Trickle-Down Economics
www.americanprogress.org/issues/budget/news/2014/04/01/86873/the-ryan-budget-is-a-broken-record-of-failed-trickle-down-economics/
"For the past three years, House Budget Committee Chairman Paul Ryan (R-WI) has been trotting out the same conservative, top-down policies that have failed the nation’s middle- and working-class families, seniors, and the economy. The House Republican budget is built around the tenet that nearly everyone else must sacrifice in order to continue to give billions of dollars in tax breaks to millionaires, big corporations, and Big Oil. At every turn, the House Republican budget reveals its vision of an economy and government that only works for the wealthiest individuals and special corporate interests at the cost of everyone else.
Now for the fourth consecutive year, the House Republican budget proposes dismantling traditional Medicare and slashing investments that drive our economy, all while cutting taxes for the rich and protecting taxpayer subsidies for big businesses and oil companies. The American people have seen this before, and we know how it ends—with millionaires, big corporations, and Big Oil as the only ones who are better off."
"For the past three years, House Budget Committee Chairman Paul Ryan (R-WI) has been trotting out the same conservative, top-down policies that have failed the nation’s middle- and working-class families, seniors, and the economy. The House Republican budget is built around the tenet that nearly everyone else must sacrifice in order to continue to give billions of dollars in tax breaks to millionaires, big corporations, and Big Oil. At every turn, the House Republican budget reveals its vision of an economy and government that only works for the wealthiest individuals and special corporate interests at the cost of everyone else.
Now for the fourth consecutive year, the House Republican budget proposes dismantling traditional Medicare and slashing investments that drive our economy, all while cutting taxes for the rich and protecting taxpayer subsidies for big businesses and oil companies. The American people have seen this before, and we know how it ends—with millionaires, big corporations, and Big Oil as the only ones who are better off."
Tax Dodging Companies Hoarding Nearly One Trillion Overseas | Common Dreams
Tax Dodging Companies Hoarding Nearly One Trillion Overseas | Common Dreams
"Profits for U.S. companies are at a record high, yet companies have hoarded nearly one trillion overseas to dodge U.S. taxes, a new Moody's analysis shows."
"Profits for U.S. companies are at a record high, yet companies have hoarded nearly one trillion overseas to dodge U.S. taxes, a new Moody's analysis shows."
PERRspectives: Paul Ryan Aptly Releases GOP Budget on April Fool's Day
PERRspectives: Paul Ryan Aptly Releases GOP Budget on April Fool's Day
"Paul Ryan's vision for America--more debt, a tax cut bonanza for the mega-rich, Medicare rationing and millions more uninsured--is hardly the stuff of Republican talking points for November's midterms."
"Paul Ryan's vision for America--more debt, a tax cut bonanza for the mega-rich, Medicare rationing and millions more uninsured--is hardly the stuff of Republican talking points for November's midterms."
Gov. Scott Walker Ends Early Weekend Absentee Voting In Wisconsin
Gov. Scott Walker Ends Early Weekend Absentee Voting In Wisconsin
"Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker signed a measure into law that eliminates absentee voting on weekends ahead of elections."
"Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker signed a measure into law that eliminates absentee voting on weekends ahead of elections."
Democracy vs. Oligarchy | Common Dreams
Democracy vs. Oligarchy | Common Dreams
"The disastrous 2010 Supreme Court ruling in Citizens United threw out campaign funding laws that limited what wealthy individuals and corporations could spend on elections. Since that ruling, campaign spending by Adelson, the Koch brothers and a handful of other billionaire families has fundamentally undermined American democracy. If present trends continue, elections will not be decided by one-person, one-vote, but by a small number of very wealthy families who spend huge amounts of money supporting right-wing candidates who protect their interests.
This process – a handful of the wealthiest people in our country controlling the political process – is called "oligarchy"."
"The disastrous 2010 Supreme Court ruling in Citizens United threw out campaign funding laws that limited what wealthy individuals and corporations could spend on elections. Since that ruling, campaign spending by Adelson, the Koch brothers and a handful of other billionaire families has fundamentally undermined American democracy. If present trends continue, elections will not be decided by one-person, one-vote, but by a small number of very wealthy families who spend huge amounts of money supporting right-wing candidates who protect their interests.
This process – a handful of the wealthiest people in our country controlling the political process – is called "oligarchy"."
The “Billionaire’s Primary”: Meet America’s New Political Bosses | Common Dreams
The “Billionaire’s Primary”: Meet America’s New Political Bosses | Common Dreams
"The Republican 2016 presidential primary season opened with the “Sheldon Adelson Primary.” The eight wealthiest person in the country, worth an estimated $40 billion, doesn’t have to wait for the official GOP primary season to start. He holds his own primary."
"The Republican 2016 presidential primary season opened with the “Sheldon Adelson Primary.” The eight wealthiest person in the country, worth an estimated $40 billion, doesn’t have to wait for the official GOP primary season to start. He holds his own primary."
Bribery, Money-Laundering, And Islamaphobia: The Sheldon Adelson Story The Media Forgot
www.mediamatters.org/blog/2014/03/31/bribery-money-laundering-and-islamaphobia-the-s/198684
"Billionaire Sheldon Adelson has a history of illegal behavior and controversial comments -- facts that were left out of mainstream print reporting on GOP candidates trying to win his favor last week."
"Billionaire Sheldon Adelson has a history of illegal behavior and controversial comments -- facts that were left out of mainstream print reporting on GOP candidates trying to win his favor last week."
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