Wisconsinites Rally to Stop ‘Right-to-Work’ Bill
"Late Wednesday night, the Wisconsin Republican-led state Senate voted 17–15 to advance a "right to work" bill that has been widely criticized as harmful to the working families of the state. Thousands rallied in Madison outside the Wisconsin Capitol on Tuesday and Wednesday in opposition to the legislation."
Saturday, February 28, 2015
This SCOTUS destroyed America: How Citizens United is ruining more than our elections
This SCOTUS destroyed America: How Citizens United is ruining more than our elections
"At the time that the ruling was delivered, Kennedy’s faith that access and influence would not corrupt the system was exceeded in curiousness only by his belief that the American people would feel similarly. But as the years have passed, and as studies showing the U.S. to be a donor-run system akin to oligarchy have gone mainstream, his declaration has begun to make a bit more sense. Just so long as “the electorate” is defined as the lobbying industry and its clients, his prediction looks downright clairvoyant. I bet the fine people at the Property Casualty Insurers Association of America — who are probably investing right now in the Jeb Bush-affiliated Right to Rise “social welfare” group — would strongly agree."
"At the time that the ruling was delivered, Kennedy’s faith that access and influence would not corrupt the system was exceeded in curiousness only by his belief that the American people would feel similarly. But as the years have passed, and as studies showing the U.S. to be a donor-run system akin to oligarchy have gone mainstream, his declaration has begun to make a bit more sense. Just so long as “the electorate” is defined as the lobbying industry and its clients, his prediction looks downright clairvoyant. I bet the fine people at the Property Casualty Insurers Association of America — who are probably investing right now in the Jeb Bush-affiliated Right to Rise “social welfare” group — would strongly agree."
According to Scott Walker, This Is What a Terrorist Looks Like
According to Scott Walker, This Is What a Terrorist Looks Like
"So when Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker said that his experience with the protests prepared him for the fight against the murderous militants known as ISIS, jaws across Wisconsin hit the floor."
"So when Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker said that his experience with the protests prepared him for the fight against the murderous militants known as ISIS, jaws across Wisconsin hit the floor."
Christie Settles ExxonMobil Case At Hefty Discount After Firm Donates To RGA
Christie Settles ExxonMobil Case At Hefty Discount After Firm Donates To RGA
"Before Gov. Chris Christie’s administration abruptly settled long-running state environmental litigation against ExxonMobil for far less than originally expected, the oil behemoth donated hundreds of thousands of dollars to a Republican group that Christie ran and that financed his election campaigns. Additionally, the Christie administration office that engineered the settlement had been run by a former Exxon lawyer."
"Before Gov. Chris Christie’s administration abruptly settled long-running state environmental litigation against ExxonMobil for far less than originally expected, the oil behemoth donated hundreds of thousands of dollars to a Republican group that Christie ran and that financed his election campaigns. Additionally, the Christie administration office that engineered the settlement had been run by a former Exxon lawyer."
Friday, February 27, 2015
You're Not the Boss of Me! Why Libertarianism Is a Childish Sham | Alternet
You're Not the Boss of Me! Why Libertarianism Is a Childish Sham | Alternet
"Who then are the libertarians rebelling against? The most powerful sector of the society is corporate America, and it profits and benefits most from the deregulatory and anti-tax measures libertarians champion. That sector of society also happens to own the federal government. Through large campaign donations and aggressive lobbying – the very corruption that libertarians help enable by defending Citizens United and opposing campaign finance reform – they have institutionalized bribery, transforming the legislative process into an auction. Libertarians proclaim an anti-government position, but they are only opposing the last measures of protection that remain in place to prevent the government from full mutation into an aristocracy. By advocating for the removal of all social programs, libertarians are not rebelling, as much as they are reinforcing the prevailing ethos of “bootstrap” capitalism. The poor are responsible for their plight, and therefore deserve no sympathy or assistance."
"Who then are the libertarians rebelling against? The most powerful sector of the society is corporate America, and it profits and benefits most from the deregulatory and anti-tax measures libertarians champion. That sector of society also happens to own the federal government. Through large campaign donations and aggressive lobbying – the very corruption that libertarians help enable by defending Citizens United and opposing campaign finance reform – they have institutionalized bribery, transforming the legislative process into an auction. Libertarians proclaim an anti-government position, but they are only opposing the last measures of protection that remain in place to prevent the government from full mutation into an aristocracy. By advocating for the removal of all social programs, libertarians are not rebelling, as much as they are reinforcing the prevailing ethos of “bootstrap” capitalism. The poor are responsible for their plight, and therefore deserve no sympathy or assistance."
Who's Behind the Secretive Group Bashing Elizabeth Warren's Favorite Agency?
http://www.motherjones.com/politics/2015/02/cfpb-us-consumer-coalition-brian-wise-elizabeth-warren
"But he has an unusual résumé for someone who supposedly represents the interests of consumers. Before he became a consumer advocate, the press often described Wise as a Republican political consultant. His LinkedIn page describes expertise in "developing and executing public policy campaigns and corporate image campaigns through the use of non-profit organizations, grassroots mobilization, and strategic communication strategies"."
"But he has an unusual résumé for someone who supposedly represents the interests of consumers. Before he became a consumer advocate, the press often described Wise as a Republican political consultant. His LinkedIn page describes expertise in "developing and executing public policy campaigns and corporate image campaigns through the use of non-profit organizations, grassroots mobilization, and strategic communication strategies"."
Thursday, February 26, 2015
We Won on Net Neutrality! FCC Designates Internet as a Public Utility | Alternet
We Won on Net Neutrality! FCC Designates Internet as a Public Utility | Alternet
"The fact that a coalition of concerned customers and content providers could overcome the telecom lobby and their GOP apologists in Congress is noteworthy."
"The fact that a coalition of concerned customers and content providers could overcome the telecom lobby and their GOP apologists in Congress is noteworthy."
A Historic Day For Every American As The FCC Passes Net Neutrality Rules
http://www.politicususa.com/2015/02/26/historic-day-american-fcc-passes-net-neutrality-rules.html
"History was made today as the FCC voted 3-2 in favor of changing the rules to keep the Internet open and neutral for all."
"History was made today as the FCC voted 3-2 in favor of changing the rules to keep the Internet open and neutral for all."
GOP's Frightening Plot to Build Laboratories for Plutocracy in States They Control | Alternet
GOP's Frightening Plot to Build Laboratories for Plutocracy in States They Control | Alternet
"With these wide majorities, these Republicans are using these laboratories to put into action some of their wildest plutocratic legislative dreams, everything from enacting discriminatory legislation against gay and lesbian Americans to assaulting the rights of workers, to clawing back laws at every level that protect the public interest."
"With these wide majorities, these Republicans are using these laboratories to put into action some of their wildest plutocratic legislative dreams, everything from enacting discriminatory legislation against gay and lesbian Americans to assaulting the rights of workers, to clawing back laws at every level that protect the public interest."
Victory for the internet in the FCC!
http://www.dailykos.com/story/2015/02/26/1367059/-Victory-for-the-internet-in-the-FCC
"The Federal Communications Commission has just voted to save the internet in two party-line votes, 3-2. It would be impossible to overstate just how critical these votes taken by the commissioners today are to making the internet accessible to everyone. Those two votes were to prevent states from limiting competition in broadband service by blocking localities from developing municipal broadband services. That's big. To go even bigger, the FCC voted to reclassify broadband and to extend to it the strongest rules to protect the internet."
"The Federal Communications Commission has just voted to save the internet in two party-line votes, 3-2. It would be impossible to overstate just how critical these votes taken by the commissioners today are to making the internet accessible to everyone. Those two votes were to prevent states from limiting competition in broadband service by blocking localities from developing municipal broadband services. That's big. To go even bigger, the FCC voted to reclassify broadband and to extend to it the strongest rules to protect the internet."
Koch-Funded Allies Descend on Wisconsin to Push Right to Work
Koch-Funded Allies Descend on Wisconsin to Push Right to Work
"Fortunately, the Wisconsin GOP had the full support of the Koch-funded "think tanks" that are a critical part of the right-wing infrastructure."
"Fortunately, the Wisconsin GOP had the full support of the Koch-funded "think tanks" that are a critical part of the right-wing infrastructure."
Aaron Schock’s high-flying lifestyle: GOPer enjoys private planes and Katy Perry concerts — paid for by donors and taxpayers
Aaron Schock’s high-flying lifestyle: GOPer enjoys private planes and Katy Perry concerts — paid for by donors and taxpayers
"Already encountering mockery for his Downton Abbey-themed office, facing scrutiny for selling his home to a donor at an above-market price, accepting the resignation of his top aide following revelations of the aide’s racist Facebook posts, and confronting an ethics complaint over the use of taxpayer funds to decorate the aforementioned office, Rep. Aaron Schock’s (R-IL) public relations mess just got deeper."
"Already encountering mockery for his Downton Abbey-themed office, facing scrutiny for selling his home to a donor at an above-market price, accepting the resignation of his top aide following revelations of the aide’s racist Facebook posts, and confronting an ethics complaint over the use of taxpayer funds to decorate the aforementioned office, Rep. Aaron Schock’s (R-IL) public relations mess just got deeper."
Chris Christie can't keep breaking pension law, judge says
http://www.dailykos.com/story/2015/02/24/1366511/-Christie-can-t-keep-breaking-pension-law-judge-says
"The Christie administration responded by blustering about "liberal judicial activism," ignoring that Jacobson was appointed by former Republican Gov. Christie Todd Whitman and that Jacobson was just holding Christie to his own law."
"The Christie administration responded by blustering about "liberal judicial activism," ignoring that Jacobson was appointed by former Republican Gov. Christie Todd Whitman and that Jacobson was just holding Christie to his own law."
While Christie Blames State Pensions, NJ's Money Goes To Fat Wall Street Management Fees
While Christie Blames State Pensions, NJ's Money Goes To Fat Wall Street Management Fees
"Chris Christie tripled the NJ investment management fees. (Including paying the company that employs his wife.)
Did he do it to build up Wall Street support for his presidential run? (Gee, what do you think?)"
"Chris Christie tripled the NJ investment management fees. (Including paying the company that employs his wife.)
Did he do it to build up Wall Street support for his presidential run? (Gee, what do you think?)"
Wednesday, February 25, 2015
WI Republicans Start The Fast Track To 'Right To Work' Ruin
WI Republicans Start The Fast Track To 'Right To Work' Ruin
"The Republicans really, really don't want the people to know what they are about to do to them."
"The Republicans really, really don't want the people to know what they are about to do to them."
Telecoms, GOP Launch 'Last Ditch Effort' to Undermine Net Neutrality
Telecoms, GOP Launch 'Last Ditch Effort' to Undermine Net Neutrality
"Ahead of 'most important victory for the public interest' in FCC's history, corporate interests entertain Republican-controlled House committee with industry talking points"
"Ahead of 'most important victory for the public interest' in FCC's history, corporate interests entertain Republican-controlled House committee with industry talking points"
These Cities Built Cheap, Fast, Community-Owned Broadband
http://www.truth-out.org/news/item/29295-these-cities-built-cheap-fast-community-owned-broadband
"Just before his State of the Union address last month, President Obama showed up in the small city of Cedar Falls, Iowa, to highlight the work of Cedar Falls Utilities, a publicly owned utility that operates an Internet network in the city. Cedar Falls has one of the oldest community-owned networks in the country and, with recent upgrades, is now one of the fastest. In addition to having higher-speed connections than neighboring communities in Iowa, the publicly owned network's more than 11,000 subscribers pay around $200 less per year."
"Just before his State of the Union address last month, President Obama showed up in the small city of Cedar Falls, Iowa, to highlight the work of Cedar Falls Utilities, a publicly owned utility that operates an Internet network in the city. Cedar Falls has one of the oldest community-owned networks in the country and, with recent upgrades, is now one of the fastest. In addition to having higher-speed connections than neighboring communities in Iowa, the publicly owned network's more than 11,000 subscribers pay around $200 less per year."
Shameless WI Republicans Shut Down Public Comments On Right-To-Work And Run Like Cowards (VIDEO)
http://www.addictinginfo.org/2015/02/25/shameless-wi-republicans-shut-down-public-comments-on-right-to-work-and-run-like-cowards-video/
"Inside the building, public testimony repeatedly torched the legislation and called for the committee to vote it down. In typical GOP style, Republican Senators in charge of the committee shut down testimony, called for an early vote and then ran away as fast as they could."
"Inside the building, public testimony repeatedly torched the legislation and called for the committee to vote it down. In typical GOP style, Republican Senators in charge of the committee shut down testimony, called for an early vote and then ran away as fast as they could."
Wisconsin Workers Fight Back Against Right To Work
http://thinkprogress.org/economy/2015/02/24/3626213/right-to-work-hearing/
"Speakers cited studies that found that all workers in “right to work” states, regardless of whether they belong to a union, lose an average of $1,500 a year in wages as a result of these laws. Others focused on how Wisconsin workers have already been hit by Scott Walker’s policies over the last few years. According to the Census Bureau’s American Community Survey, median household income in Wisconsin has dropped since the passage of the Act 10 in 2011, and is currently about $800 below the national average."
"Speakers cited studies that found that all workers in “right to work” states, regardless of whether they belong to a union, lose an average of $1,500 a year in wages as a result of these laws. Others focused on how Wisconsin workers have already been hit by Scott Walker’s policies over the last few years. According to the Census Bureau’s American Community Survey, median household income in Wisconsin has dropped since the passage of the Act 10 in 2011, and is currently about $800 below the national average."
The Insidious Acceleration of Corporate False Fronts Attacking Environmental Safeguards
The Insidious Acceleration of Corporate False Fronts Attacking Environmental Safeguards
"Given that the corporate mainstream media avoids ferreting out the truth in most cases, "studies" from innocuously named think tanks are quoted to represent the anti-EPA position without noting the fact that they are backed by polluting industries. Even if the mass media did actually investigate the origin of the funding for such "studies," Berman knows how to hide the funders, so it is even more difficult to prove that the fossil fuel industry is backing what is offered as "unbiased" research and analysis.
What is most ominous about Berman's recent "false front" initiatives - which bring him extremely healthy fees from corporations - is that they represent the expanding stranglehold of big money on government. From lobbying to campaign finance to alleged think tanks and "studies" - and other tools to control public policy, regulations and legislation - corporations and the wealthy have not only largely captured the electoral process; they have also crafted finely tuned ways to influence the mass media with false information and analysis."
"Given that the corporate mainstream media avoids ferreting out the truth in most cases, "studies" from innocuously named think tanks are quoted to represent the anti-EPA position without noting the fact that they are backed by polluting industries. Even if the mass media did actually investigate the origin of the funding for such "studies," Berman knows how to hide the funders, so it is even more difficult to prove that the fossil fuel industry is backing what is offered as "unbiased" research and analysis.
What is most ominous about Berman's recent "false front" initiatives - which bring him extremely healthy fees from corporations - is that they represent the expanding stranglehold of big money on government. From lobbying to campaign finance to alleged think tanks and "studies" - and other tools to control public policy, regulations and legislation - corporations and the wealthy have not only largely captured the electoral process; they have also crafted finely tuned ways to influence the mass media with false information and analysis."
Why the Right-Wing Is as Obsessed with Brainwashing Your Kid as With Looting Social Security | Alternet
Why the Right-Wing Is as Obsessed with Brainwashing Your Kid as With Looting Social Security | Alternet
"In light of Oklahoma's recent attack on AP History, it would be easy to argue that today's Republicans don't recognize the value of a good education. However, the reality is that they do, and that the spreading attack on public education is far more sinister."
"In light of Oklahoma's recent attack on AP History, it would be easy to argue that today's Republicans don't recognize the value of a good education. However, the reality is that they do, and that the spreading attack on public education is far more sinister."
The Conservative Attempt to Rewrite the United States' Progressive History
http://www.truth-out.org/opinion/item/29270-the-conservative-attempt-to-re-write-our-progressive-history
"Name a great achievement in US history and conservatives were against it.
This isn't opinion, it's just fact, and it's the real reason why conservatives are going absolutely bonkers about the AP US history curriculum.
They're worried that if young people study real history, not the Reaganized fluff Republicans are pushing, they'll realize that conservatives have been on the wrong side of history for the past 200 plus years.
From a conservative perspective, banning AP history makes perfect sense.
Not only would doing so keep the public in the dark about what it really means to be conservative, it would also - and this is really important - make it harder for young Americans to discover the truth about this country's progressive past."
"Name a great achievement in US history and conservatives were against it.
This isn't opinion, it's just fact, and it's the real reason why conservatives are going absolutely bonkers about the AP US history curriculum.
They're worried that if young people study real history, not the Reaganized fluff Republicans are pushing, they'll realize that conservatives have been on the wrong side of history for the past 200 plus years.
From a conservative perspective, banning AP history makes perfect sense.
Not only would doing so keep the public in the dark about what it really means to be conservative, it would also - and this is really important - make it harder for young Americans to discover the truth about this country's progressive past."
Brewing 'Perfect Storm,' GOP Lawmakers Push Millionaire-Friendly State Tax Schemes
Brewing 'Perfect Storm,' GOP Lawmakers Push Millionaire-Friendly State Tax Schemes
"Despite unfair burden on lower- and middle- classes, conservative-led state governments push regressive tax plans"
"Despite unfair burden on lower- and middle- classes, conservative-led state governments push regressive tax plans"
“Death by a Thousand Cuts” and ALEC’s Local Strategy for Attacking Unions
“Death by a Thousand Cuts” and ALEC’s Local Strategy for Attacking Unions
"The American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC) made headlines last week after Wisconsin Republicans introduced a virtually word-for-word copy of the ALEC “model” Right to Work Act, following on the heels of Michigan and other states that have taken up the ALEC-inspired anti-union measures in recent years."
"The American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC) made headlines last week after Wisconsin Republicans introduced a virtually word-for-word copy of the ALEC “model” Right to Work Act, following on the heels of Michigan and other states that have taken up the ALEC-inspired anti-union measures in recent years."
Scott Walker’s economic mess: How worker wages were gutted in Wisconsin
Scott Walker’s economic mess: How worker wages were gutted in Wisconsin
"Since Walker wants to bring this policy menu to the rest of the country in 2016, people on Main Streets outside of Wisconsin should take note."
"Since Walker wants to bring this policy menu to the rest of the country in 2016, people on Main Streets outside of Wisconsin should take note."
Scott Walker Says He’ll Sign ALEC-Echoing ‘Right to Work' (For Less) Legislation | The Nation
Scott Walker Says He’ll Sign ALEC-Echoing ‘Right to Work' (For Less) Legislation | The Nation
"Plenty of Walker critics in the labor movement and the legislature expressed skepticism about the governor's temperate statements. After all, when one of his wealthiest supporters, Wisconsin billionaire Diane Hendricks, had asked in 2011 about making Wisconsin a "right-to-work" state, Walker was caught on tape replying: "The first step is we're going to deal with collective bargaining for all public employee unions, because you use divide and conquer." That did not sound like a man who had any qualms about signing anti-labor legislation.
Yet, throughout the high-stakes 2014 campaign, the governor stuck to his newly moderate line, presenting himself as a smart manager who wanted to get things right rather than the rigid ideologue he had been portrayed as during the 2011 conflict.
That was then.This is now."
"Plenty of Walker critics in the labor movement and the legislature expressed skepticism about the governor's temperate statements. After all, when one of his wealthiest supporters, Wisconsin billionaire Diane Hendricks, had asked in 2011 about making Wisconsin a "right-to-work" state, Walker was caught on tape replying: "The first step is we're going to deal with collective bargaining for all public employee unions, because you use divide and conquer." That did not sound like a man who had any qualms about signing anti-labor legislation.
Yet, throughout the high-stakes 2014 campaign, the governor stuck to his newly moderate line, presenting himself as a smart manager who wanted to get things right rather than the rigid ideologue he had been portrayed as during the 2011 conflict.
That was then.This is now."
The Corporate Debt to Society: $10,000 Per Household, Per Year | Alternet
The Corporate Debt to Society: $10,000 Per Household, Per Year | Alternet
"The corporate debt to society: $10,000 per household, per year. That estimate is based on facts, not the conservative-style emotion that might deny the responsibility for any debt to the American people."
"The corporate debt to society: $10,000 per household, per year. That estimate is based on facts, not the conservative-style emotion that might deny the responsibility for any debt to the American people."
Monday, February 23, 2015
Wisconsin Introduces Word-for-Word ALEC Right to Work Bill
Wisconsin Introduces Word-for-Word ALEC Right to Work Bill
"Wisconsin Republicans have called a special session to take up a "right to work" measure attacking private sector unions--and the text of the bill, the Center for Media and Democracy has discovered, is taken word-for-word from American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC) model legislation."
"Wisconsin Republicans have called a special session to take up a "right to work" measure attacking private sector unions--and the text of the bill, the Center for Media and Democracy has discovered, is taken word-for-word from American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC) model legislation."
Scott Walker's Political Record of Lies, Deceit, Corruption and Revenge | Alternet
Scott Walker's Political Record of Lies, Deceit, Corruption and Revenge | Alternet
"Stepping back, it is clear that Walker is positioning himself to be the political water boy for the enormous fund-raising machine led by the libertarian industrialist Koch brothers, who have said they will try to raise nearly $900 million to spend on the 2016 elections. Walker hopes his combative and bullying style will allow him to win the White House and impose a 21st-century version of robber-baron capitalism on America."
"Stepping back, it is clear that Walker is positioning himself to be the political water boy for the enormous fund-raising machine led by the libertarian industrialist Koch brothers, who have said they will try to raise nearly $900 million to spend on the 2016 elections. Walker hopes his combative and bullying style will allow him to win the White House and impose a 21st-century version of robber-baron capitalism on America."
Scott Walker Green Lights Stealth Attack On Unions
Scott Walker Green Lights Stealth Attack On Unions
"They're not going to stop until the entire country is working for minimum wage and no benefits. And even then, they won't stop until they've eliminated minimum wage."
"They're not going to stop until the entire country is working for minimum wage and no benefits. And even then, they won't stop until they've eliminated minimum wage."
Saturday, February 21, 2015
Thursday, February 19, 2015
This is what Republican governance looks like: Bruce Rauner’s frightening agenda
This is what Republican governance looks like: Bruce Rauner’s frightening agenda
"Amid depressed turnout and pent-up frustration with the Springfield status quo, Illinois voters last November ousted Democratic Gov. Pat Quinn, awarding billionaire venture capitalist Bruce Rauner a five-point victory. The five weeks since Rauner took office as Illinois’ first Republican governor in a dozen years have offered a vivid illustration of the truism that elections have consequences — consequences that will be paid disproportionately by the state’s poor, working class, and middle-income citizens."
"Amid depressed turnout and pent-up frustration with the Springfield status quo, Illinois voters last November ousted Democratic Gov. Pat Quinn, awarding billionaire venture capitalist Bruce Rauner a five-point victory. The five weeks since Rauner took office as Illinois’ first Republican governor in a dozen years have offered a vivid illustration of the truism that elections have consequences — consequences that will be paid disproportionately by the state’s poor, working class, and middle-income citizens."
GOP’s middle class charade: Ronald Reagan, Rush Limbaugh and the real threat of the Christian right
GOP’s middle class charade: Ronald Reagan, Rush Limbaugh and the real threat of the Christian right
"Republicans desperately want you to believe they care about income inequality. The party's history says otherwise"
"Republicans desperately want you to believe they care about income inequality. The party's history says otherwise"
Crunched By His Big Tax Cuts, Scott Walker Will Skip $108 Million In Debt Payments
http://thinkprogress.org/economy/2015/02/19/3624622/walker-budget-debt-payment/
"Walker has pushed for and enacted more than $2 billion in tax cuts since he took office in 2011. Although the state had a surplus of $759 million last year, it now faces a projected shortfall that could wind up being more than $2 billion for the next two budget years."
"Walker has pushed for and enacted more than $2 billion in tax cuts since he took office in 2011. Although the state had a surplus of $759 million last year, it now faces a projected shortfall that could wind up being more than $2 billion for the next two budget years."
Wednesday, February 18, 2015
Comcast feathering nests of anti-net neutrality Republicans
http://www.dailykos.com/story/2015/02/17/1365028/-Comcast-feathering-nests-of-anti-net-neutrality-Republicans
"It's always helpful to have a good sense of what motivations could be behind the actions of members of Congress. It's even more helpful when those members are hell-bent on doing something that not just a majority of voters is opposed to, but is nearly universally opposed. That's the case with net neutrality. The public has spoken, and net neutrality is possibly even more popular than Social Security."
"It's always helpful to have a good sense of what motivations could be behind the actions of members of Congress. It's even more helpful when those members are hell-bent on doing something that not just a majority of voters is opposed to, but is nearly universally opposed. That's the case with net neutrality. The public has spoken, and net neutrality is possibly even more popular than Social Security."
The Cruel Politics of One GOP Governor's Agenda to Fleece the Public | Alternet
The Cruel Politics of One GOP Governor's Agenda to Fleece the Public | Alternet
"The new governor of Illinois, Bruce Rauner, is a hedge fund manager whose salary last year was $60 million. He spent $65.9 million—including $27.6 million of his own money—buying his last election, and he’s about to introduce an austerity program that will make most folks in Illinois think they are living in austerity-wracked Greece, with less idyllic weather."
"The new governor of Illinois, Bruce Rauner, is a hedge fund manager whose salary last year was $60 million. He spent $65.9 million—including $27.6 million of his own money—buying his last election, and he’s about to introduce an austerity program that will make most folks in Illinois think they are living in austerity-wracked Greece, with less idyllic weather."
$15 Now Under Attack – Republicans To Eliminate Popular Law
http://www.addictinginfo.org/2015/02/18/15-wage-under-attack/
"The GOP lawmakers in Olympia,Washington are in panic mode over the upcoming $15/hr minimum wage increase in Seattle. Not that it will hurt businesses, or cost jobs, but because in the little experiment over it in the town of Seatac, the opposite has happened, demonstrating to one and all that the rhetoric against the minimum wage is complete and total rubbish. So now they are scrambling to cut it off before it spreads from the small enclave next to the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport to the nation’s 21st largest city, Seattle."
"The GOP lawmakers in Olympia,Washington are in panic mode over the upcoming $15/hr minimum wage increase in Seattle. Not that it will hurt businesses, or cost jobs, but because in the little experiment over it in the town of Seatac, the opposite has happened, demonstrating to one and all that the rhetoric against the minimum wage is complete and total rubbish. So now they are scrambling to cut it off before it spreads from the small enclave next to the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport to the nation’s 21st largest city, Seattle."
ACCE Wants Your Town to Subsidize ALEC-Style Corporate Lobbying
ACCE Wants Your Town to Subsidize ALEC-Style Corporate Lobbying
"the American City County Exchange (ACCE) was formed in 2014 as a local government version of the state legislature-focused American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC). The new group's structure mimics its parent organization, with corporate lobbyists paying between $10,000 and $25,000 to sit side-by-side with city and county elected officials and vote on legislation that all too frequently benefits ALEC's corporate members.
Early reports suggest that ACCE's agenda is a familiar one: introducing local "right-to-work" bills that undermine collective bargaining, blocking local minimum wage campaigns, and privatizing government services to benefit for-profit corporations."
"the American City County Exchange (ACCE) was formed in 2014 as a local government version of the state legislature-focused American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC). The new group's structure mimics its parent organization, with corporate lobbyists paying between $10,000 and $25,000 to sit side-by-side with city and county elected officials and vote on legislation that all too frequently benefits ALEC's corporate members.
Early reports suggest that ACCE's agenda is a familiar one: introducing local "right-to-work" bills that undermine collective bargaining, blocking local minimum wage campaigns, and privatizing government services to benefit for-profit corporations."
Judge Protects Koch Donor Names From Light Of Day -- For Now
Judge Protects Koch Donor Names From Light Of Day -- For Now
"A Koch brothers advocacy group can keep its donor list secret for now, with a federal judge ruling that revealing the identities would chill free speech.
The ruling comes as billionaires Charles and David Koch seek to raise almost $1 billion in the run-up to the 2016 U.S. Presidential election."
"A Koch brothers advocacy group can keep its donor list secret for now, with a federal judge ruling that revealing the identities would chill free speech.
The ruling comes as billionaires Charles and David Koch seek to raise almost $1 billion in the run-up to the 2016 U.S. Presidential election."
New report says conservative chumps sent $50 million to right-wing ‘scam’ groups like SarahPAC
New report says conservative chumps sent $50 million to right-wing ‘scam’ groups like SarahPAC
"Two Super PACs – Tea Party Army and Republicans for Immigration Reform – gave no money at all to candidates through independent expenditures or direct contributions, the study found.
Eight other groups – including The National Draft Ben Carson for President, Tea Party Express, SarahPAC, and Tea Party Patriots – gave less than 10 percent of their expenditures to candidates.
The bottom 10 groups surveyed spent more than $54 million last year but contributed slightly more than $3.6 million to Republican candidates."
"Two Super PACs – Tea Party Army and Republicans for Immigration Reform – gave no money at all to candidates through independent expenditures or direct contributions, the study found.
Eight other groups – including The National Draft Ben Carson for President, Tea Party Express, SarahPAC, and Tea Party Patriots – gave less than 10 percent of their expenditures to candidates.
The bottom 10 groups surveyed spent more than $54 million last year but contributed slightly more than $3.6 million to Republican candidates."
Fox Host Reframes Income Inequality Report To Throw A Pity Party For The Rich
http://mediamatters.org/blog/2015/02/17/fox-host-reframes-income-inequality-report-to-t/202545
"Of course, income inequality is still at historically troubling rates, and could potential even worsen, as the Times repeatedly noted."
"Of course, income inequality is still at historically troubling rates, and could potential even worsen, as the Times repeatedly noted."
Tuesday, February 17, 2015
Gullible Conservatives Finally Learn That Groups Like SarahPAC Took Them For Suckers
http://www.addictinginfo.org/2015/02/17/gullible-conservatives-finally-learn-that-groups-like-sarahpac-took-them-for-suckers/
"Among the groups were the Tea Party Patriots, Tea Party Army, Republicans For Immigration Reform, Tea Party Express, and SarahPAC. As we all know, SarahPAC is the group that Sarah Palin uses as her personal bank account. This hasn’t exactly been secret, but conservatives refuse to believe any report that one of their own didn’t put together. You know, because conservatives are dumb like that.
Anyway, Rightwing News found that these groups took in and spent over $54 million last year and only used $3 million of it to help Republican candidates. Sounds like a political ponzi scheme if you ask me."
"Among the groups were the Tea Party Patriots, Tea Party Army, Republicans For Immigration Reform, Tea Party Express, and SarahPAC. As we all know, SarahPAC is the group that Sarah Palin uses as her personal bank account. This hasn’t exactly been secret, but conservatives refuse to believe any report that one of their own didn’t put together. You know, because conservatives are dumb like that.
Anyway, Rightwing News found that these groups took in and spent over $54 million last year and only used $3 million of it to help Republican candidates. Sounds like a political ponzi scheme if you ask me."
4 Things You Should Know About Presidential Candidate Scott Walker Before It’s Too Late | Alternet
4 Things You Should Know About Presidential Candidate Scott Walker Before It’s Too Late | Alternet
"He is so corrupt the corruption itself gives him cover, because an objective description of it sounds like a hyperbolic screed, leading to an “Oh, come on, he can’t be as bad as all that” from people who don’t know his history.
He IS that bad."
"He is so corrupt the corruption itself gives him cover, because an objective description of it sounds like a hyperbolic screed, leading to an “Oh, come on, he can’t be as bad as all that” from people who don’t know his history.
He IS that bad."
Walker’s Punked Phone Call
http://scottwalkerwatch.com/koch-brothers/walkers-punked-phone-call/
Looks like the Koch brothers are going to get behind Scott Walker for 2016. Anyone remember this phone call? Good reminder of just how bought and paid for he really is. They owned him from the very start. (actual recording above the transcript)
Looks like the Koch brothers are going to get behind Scott Walker for 2016. Anyone remember this phone call? Good reminder of just how bought and paid for he really is. They owned him from the very start. (actual recording above the transcript)
Why Is No One Talking About the GOP’s Plan to Send Millions of Disabled Americans Into Poverty? | The Nation
Why Is No One Talking About the GOP’s Plan to Send Millions of Disabled Americans Into Poverty? | The Nation
"Despite their virtues, many conservative Republicans have an unfortunate habit of picking on the weak and disadvantaged, slandering the people least able to fight back."
"Despite their virtues, many conservative Republicans have an unfortunate habit of picking on the weak and disadvantaged, slandering the people least able to fight back."
Report: Overpaid CEOs hurt shareholders, employees and the nation as a whole
http://www.dailykos.com/story/2015/02/16/1364740/-Report-Overpaid-CEOs-hurt-shareholders-employees-and-the-nation-as-a-whole
"Some people may argue that it shouldn't matter to anyone but shareholders what a company pays its top executives. But the pay structures that allow this grotesquely out-of-whack compensation don't just harm shareholders, according to the report, "they also prevent corporations from paying decent wages to their employees." They also hurt taxpayers because the performance-based compensation is a write-off no matter how large. And, increasingly, that compensation is divorced from actual performance."
"Some people may argue that it shouldn't matter to anyone but shareholders what a company pays its top executives. But the pay structures that allow this grotesquely out-of-whack compensation don't just harm shareholders, according to the report, "they also prevent corporations from paying decent wages to their employees." They also hurt taxpayers because the performance-based compensation is a write-off no matter how large. And, increasingly, that compensation is divorced from actual performance."
The Christian Right Is Quite Scary, But the GOP's Economic Agenda Is America's Big Nightmare | Alternet
The Christian Right Is Quite Scary, But the GOP's Economic Agenda Is America's Big Nightmare | Alternet
"America’s Christian right has a long history of demonstrating its devotion to fanaticism, extravagance and folly, but since the Reagan era, these tendencies have been deployed very effectively by politicians who want to appeal to sensibilities and loyalties of ordinary Americans while picking their pockets. That’s what this latest round of rabble-rousing is really all about."
"America’s Christian right has a long history of demonstrating its devotion to fanaticism, extravagance and folly, but since the Reagan era, these tendencies have been deployed very effectively by politicians who want to appeal to sensibilities and loyalties of ordinary Americans while picking their pockets. That’s what this latest round of rabble-rousing is really all about."
In Case You Missed It: Joni Ernst Caught On Tape Saying Poor People Aren’t Entitled to Food, Clothing, or Health Care
http://www.addictinginfo.org/2015/02/16/in-case-you-missed-it-joni-ernst-caught-on-tape-saying-poor-people-arent-entitled-to-food-clothing-or-health-care/
"Congratulations, Iowa (where over 900,000 residents- or one-third of the state- receives some form of government assistance) on electing this woman who thinks you’re all just a bunch of lazy, entitled moochers, and who wants to inflict a “painful” ideology on you."
"Congratulations, Iowa (where over 900,000 residents- or one-third of the state- receives some form of government assistance) on electing this woman who thinks you’re all just a bunch of lazy, entitled moochers, and who wants to inflict a “painful” ideology on you."
Papa John’s Stole Wages From Their Employees, Now They’re Paying An $800,000 Price Tag For It
http://www.addictinginfo.org/2015/02/10/papa-johns-stole-wages-from-their-employees-now-theyre-paying-an-800000-price-tag-for-it/
"Gee, it kinda sounds like John Schnatter literally got rich by stealing from his own employees. After all, parent companies get a slice of the profits made by their franchisees. Combined with his refusal to pay his workers a living wage and his refusal to provide them with health insurance, it’s no wonder why Schnatter is able to live in such opulence. Here’s an aerial photograph of his sprawling 40,000 square foot castle in Kentucky, which includes a pool, a golf course, a 22 car garage, and a drawbridge.
In addition, Schnatter owns two other homes in Florida and Utah. All generously and unknowingly purchased by workers for John Schnatter with their stolen wages while they slave away in kitchens across the country with no health insurance. And conservatives have the nerve to wonder why fast food workers are going on strike. It’s because of greedy jackasses like this guy."
"Gee, it kinda sounds like John Schnatter literally got rich by stealing from his own employees. After all, parent companies get a slice of the profits made by their franchisees. Combined with his refusal to pay his workers a living wage and his refusal to provide them with health insurance, it’s no wonder why Schnatter is able to live in such opulence. Here’s an aerial photograph of his sprawling 40,000 square foot castle in Kentucky, which includes a pool, a golf course, a 22 car garage, and a drawbridge.
In addition, Schnatter owns two other homes in Florida and Utah. All generously and unknowingly purchased by workers for John Schnatter with their stolen wages while they slave away in kitchens across the country with no health insurance. And conservatives have the nerve to wonder why fast food workers are going on strike. It’s because of greedy jackasses like this guy."
Monday, February 16, 2015
North Carolina GOP Looks To Raise Taxes On Students And Defrauded Homeowners
http://thinkprogress.org/economy/2015/02/16/3623378/north-carolina-mortgage-relief-tax/
"Anyone in North Carolina who wins a write-down on their mortgage could end up owing the state thousands of dollars in extra income taxes under a Republican-backed proposal that cleared the state Senate last week."
"Anyone in North Carolina who wins a write-down on their mortgage could end up owing the state thousands of dollars in extra income taxes under a Republican-backed proposal that cleared the state Senate last week."
The Koch Agenda Brings Pain And Woe To People In Republican Controlled Red States
http://www.politicususa.com/2015/02/15/tea-party-extremists-control-republicans-conservative-movement.html
"In North Carolina, another Koch state suffering conservative economic policies, extremist Koch surrogates Art Pope and Republican governor Pat McCrory are publicly conspiring to assault higher education by eliminating several University of North Carolina academic centers that do not comport with teabagger racists or Koch brother libertarian philosophy. Academic centers targeted for extinction are the Center for Faculty Excellence; the Center for Law and Government; the Institute for Education; Center for Black Culture and History; the Center for Civil Rights, the Institute on Aging, and the Center on Poverty, Work and Opportunity.
Later this month, a panel staffed with Koch devotees will begin a review of the University of North Carolina’s academic system under libertarian Art Pope’s direction to begin eliminating those academic centers from existence. Why? Because they run contrary to the Koch’s libertarian “vision for America” under corporate fascism and they will be successful because the Kochs have convinced so-called ‘real Americans’ Palin described that their way of life and their god, their guns, and Constitution can only be preserved by eliminating higher education focused on reducing poverty, combatting racism, and reducing economic inequality."
"In North Carolina, another Koch state suffering conservative economic policies, extremist Koch surrogates Art Pope and Republican governor Pat McCrory are publicly conspiring to assault higher education by eliminating several University of North Carolina academic centers that do not comport with teabagger racists or Koch brother libertarian philosophy. Academic centers targeted for extinction are the Center for Faculty Excellence; the Center for Law and Government; the Institute for Education; Center for Black Culture and History; the Center for Civil Rights, the Institute on Aging, and the Center on Poverty, Work and Opportunity.
Later this month, a panel staffed with Koch devotees will begin a review of the University of North Carolina’s academic system under libertarian Art Pope’s direction to begin eliminating those academic centers from existence. Why? Because they run contrary to the Koch’s libertarian “vision for America” under corporate fascism and they will be successful because the Kochs have convinced so-called ‘real Americans’ Palin described that their way of life and their god, their guns, and Constitution can only be preserved by eliminating higher education focused on reducing poverty, combatting racism, and reducing economic inequality."
Did the GOP Just Give Away $130 Billion of Public Property? | The Nation
Did the GOP Just Give Away $130 Billion of Public Property? | The Nation
"McCain and Flake pressed hard for this rip-off to be included in the Defense Authorization bill, even though it has nothing to do with defense."
"McCain and Flake pressed hard for this rip-off to be included in the Defense Authorization bill, even though it has nothing to do with defense."
Prosecutor in Scott Walker Probe Asks Justices to Recuse
Prosecutor in Scott Walker Probe Asks Justices to Recuse
"The prosecutor leading the probe into possible coordination between Governor Scott Walker's campaign and outside groups has asked some Wisconsin Supreme Court justices to recuse themselves from hearing a challenge to the investigation."
"The prosecutor leading the probe into possible coordination between Governor Scott Walker's campaign and outside groups has asked some Wisconsin Supreme Court justices to recuse themselves from hearing a challenge to the investigation."
Walker's 'Job Creation Agency' Gets A Closer Look
Walker's 'Job Creation Agency' Gets A Closer Look
"Walker used the WEDC board as a place to stick his unqualified former campaign workers, even though they had no experience in economic development
The money they lost track of was in the tens of millions of dollars
WEDC was involved in bid rigging
They used taxpayer money to buy iTunes for their iPads and tickets to Badger games
Many of the companies that received WEDC money were also Walker campaign donors"
"Walker used the WEDC board as a place to stick his unqualified former campaign workers, even though they had no experience in economic development
The money they lost track of was in the tens of millions of dollars
WEDC was involved in bid rigging
They used taxpayer money to buy iTunes for their iPads and tickets to Badger games
Many of the companies that received WEDC money were also Walker campaign donors"
New Front In #RepublicanClassWar: Social Security For The Disabled
New Front In #RepublicanClassWar: Social Security For The Disabled
"Class war is precisely what we’ve been seeing for decades now – but it’s been waged for, not against, the wealthy. And Republicans have been its dutiful servants from the start. It might make a good hashtag, come to think of it: #RepublicanClassWar."
"Class war is precisely what we’ve been seeing for decades now – but it’s been waged for, not against, the wealthy. And Republicans have been its dutiful servants from the start. It might make a good hashtag, come to think of it: #RepublicanClassWar."
Saturday, February 14, 2015
Scott Walker's Most Heinous Budget Stunt Yet
Scott Walker's Most Heinous Budget Stunt Yet
"In other words, Walker wants to force the frail elderly and disabled adults into a single, expensive program. He then wants to give these contracts - worth more than $3 billion - in a no bid process to large for profit insurance companies, who will have little or no oversight.
Gee, do you think he is fishing for the Big Insurance campaign donations with this immoral giveaway?
Ah, but that's not all. With all things Walker, there is more. There is always more.
Walker is not satisfied with just going after the disabled adults and frail elderly. He wants to go after disabled children as well."
"In other words, Walker wants to force the frail elderly and disabled adults into a single, expensive program. He then wants to give these contracts - worth more than $3 billion - in a no bid process to large for profit insurance companies, who will have little or no oversight.
Gee, do you think he is fishing for the Big Insurance campaign donations with this immoral giveaway?
Ah, but that's not all. With all things Walker, there is more. There is always more.
Walker is not satisfied with just going after the disabled adults and frail elderly. He wants to go after disabled children as well."
A "Grand Alliance" To Save Our Public Postal Service
A "Grand Alliance" To Save Our Public Postal Service
"Republicans have been pushing schemes to privatize the Postal Service since at least 1996. In 2006 Republicans in the Congress pushed through a requirement that the Postal Service pre-fund 75 years of retiree costs. The Postal Service has to pay now for employees who are not even born yet. No other government agency – and certainly no company – has to do this."
"Republicans have been pushing schemes to privatize the Postal Service since at least 1996. In 2006 Republicans in the Congress pushed through a requirement that the Postal Service pre-fund 75 years of retiree costs. The Postal Service has to pay now for employees who are not even born yet. No other government agency – and certainly no company – has to do this."
With These Hires, Congress Becomes Even More Like a Corporation | The Nation
With These Hires, Congress Becomes Even More Like a Corporation | The Nation
"On almost any big issue coming up for debate during the final two years of the Obama administration—surveillance, trade, healthcare, entitlements, tax reform, climate change—corporate lobbyists will now be attempting to influence their own former colleagues, whose salaries are now covered by US taxpayers."
"On almost any big issue coming up for debate during the final two years of the Obama administration—surveillance, trade, healthcare, entitlements, tax reform, climate change—corporate lobbyists will now be attempting to influence their own former colleagues, whose salaries are now covered by US taxpayers."
Bruce Rauner Inaugurates War on Working Families
Bruce Rauner Inaugurates War on Working Families
"Billionaire financier and new Republican Illinois Governor, Bruce Rauner, who already raised eyebrows by calling for lowering the state’s minimum wage during his campaign, continued his war on working families this week with a move straight out of the ALEC playbook."
"Billionaire financier and new Republican Illinois Governor, Bruce Rauner, who already raised eyebrows by calling for lowering the state’s minimum wage during his campaign, continued his war on working families this week with a move straight out of the ALEC playbook."
The Tea Party is getting worse: Media may want a new narrative, but GOP is still nuts
The Tea Party is getting worse: Media may want a new narrative, but GOP is still nuts
"It’s not over in the U.S. Congress, where a shutdown-in-miniature is unfolding between the White House and the Tea Party wing of the GOP. It’s not over in Wisconsin, where a Tea Party-darling governor is slashing the state university system’s funding, changing its mission statement (while lying about it), and fighting tooth and nail to humiliate people on government benefits. It’s not over in North Carolina, where a billionaire-backed Tea Party government is also going after the public university system in its effort to turn the state into Kansas."
"It’s not over in the U.S. Congress, where a shutdown-in-miniature is unfolding between the White House and the Tea Party wing of the GOP. It’s not over in Wisconsin, where a Tea Party-darling governor is slashing the state university system’s funding, changing its mission statement (while lying about it), and fighting tooth and nail to humiliate people on government benefits. It’s not over in North Carolina, where a billionaire-backed Tea Party government is also going after the public university system in its effort to turn the state into Kansas."
So Christie Wants To Hold Staff Funding Hostage To Extort Profits From Any Book
So Christie Wants To Hold Staff Funding Hostage To Extort Profits From Any Book
"Late last year, lawmakers worked on a deal that would rewrite the law to allow Christie to profit from a book deal in exchange for more money for legislative staff and judicial salaries."
"Late last year, lawmakers worked on a deal that would rewrite the law to allow Christie to profit from a book deal in exchange for more money for legislative staff and judicial salaries."
High Risk Investment That Brought Down The U.S. Economy Returns, With A New Name
http://thinkprogress.org/economy/2015/02/05/3619325/bespoke-tranche-opportunities-are-your-god-now-america/
"When a restaurant fails a health code inspection, sometimes the easiest thing to do is to close up shop, let people forget what happened, then slap a new sign on the door and reopen under a new name. That’s essentially what the world’s biggest banks are doing with a complex, high-risk investment product that helped destroy the global economy less than eight years ago."
"When a restaurant fails a health code inspection, sometimes the easiest thing to do is to close up shop, let people forget what happened, then slap a new sign on the door and reopen under a new name. That’s essentially what the world’s biggest banks are doing with a complex, high-risk investment product that helped destroy the global economy less than eight years ago."
Jon Stewart Exposes Just How Corrupt Chris Christie Really Is (Video)
Jon Stewart Exposes Just How Corrupt Chris Christie Really Is (Video)
"Hopefully in 2018, the citizens of The Garden State will select someone slightly less egotistical and corrupt."
"Hopefully in 2018, the citizens of The Garden State will select someone slightly less egotistical and corrupt."
Chris Christie’s legal woes pile up: Governor’s administration faces new criminal probe
Chris Christie’s legal woes pile up: Governor’s administration faces new criminal probe
"Christie’s office is currently embroiled in 23 court battles to prevent the release of state documents on such matters as Bridgegate, pay-to-play accusations, potential ethics abuses, and the governor’s out-of-state travel."
"Christie’s office is currently embroiled in 23 court battles to prevent the release of state documents on such matters as Bridgegate, pay-to-play accusations, potential ethics abuses, and the governor’s out-of-state travel."
Friday, February 13, 2015
NJ Taxpayers Pay Close Christie Pal For Governor's Legal Defense
NJ Taxpayers Pay Close Christie Pal For Governor's Legal Defense
"Palatucci is considered to be one of Christie's closest advisers. He signed the organizing papers for a new political action committee expected to promote Christie's prospective presidential campaign. His firm is serving as the counsel to the committee and he is expected to serve in a leadership role on Christie's presidential campaign."
"Palatucci is considered to be one of Christie's closest advisers. He signed the organizing papers for a new political action committee expected to promote Christie's prospective presidential campaign. His firm is serving as the counsel to the committee and he is expected to serve in a leadership role on Christie's presidential campaign."
Rand Paul caught lying about his college record
Rand Paul caught lying about his college record
"Senator's office forced to admit that he never graduated"
"Senator's office forced to admit that he never graduated"
Thursday, February 12, 2015
Tea Party’s Disastrous Tax Cut Experiment Comes To Ohio
http://thinkprogress.org/economy/2015/02/12/3622262/ohio-small-business-tax-cut-kansas/
"Similarities and contrasts with Brownback’s recent catastrophe aside, the broader trade-off in public priorities that underlies Kasich’s proposal has parallels in other states where GOP governors are looking to make a splash. In Louisiana, Arizona, Wisconsin, and elsewhere, heads of state are proposing 2015 budgets that would shrink the pool of money available for public services in order to put more money into wealthy interests’ pockets. Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker (R) has proposed to use public resources to finance a new NBA stadium for the billionaire owners of the Milwaukee Bucks, alongside huge cuts to the state’s public universities. Louisiana Gov. Bobby Jindal (R) wants to cut hundreds of millions of dollars from the state’s higher education system while refusing to shrink the state’s generous tax breaks to industry amid broader budget trouble. And in Arizona, Gov. David Ducey (R) has proposed almost $400 million in public spending cuts while also asking taxpayers to spend $5 million building a new for-profit, privately owned prison."
"Similarities and contrasts with Brownback’s recent catastrophe aside, the broader trade-off in public priorities that underlies Kasich’s proposal has parallels in other states where GOP governors are looking to make a splash. In Louisiana, Arizona, Wisconsin, and elsewhere, heads of state are proposing 2015 budgets that would shrink the pool of money available for public services in order to put more money into wealthy interests’ pockets. Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker (R) has proposed to use public resources to finance a new NBA stadium for the billionaire owners of the Milwaukee Bucks, alongside huge cuts to the state’s public universities. Louisiana Gov. Bobby Jindal (R) wants to cut hundreds of millions of dollars from the state’s higher education system while refusing to shrink the state’s generous tax breaks to industry amid broader budget trouble. And in Arizona, Gov. David Ducey (R) has proposed almost $400 million in public spending cuts while also asking taxpayers to spend $5 million building a new for-profit, privately owned prison."
'Made in the USA' Just a Political Slogan to Conservatives
'Made in the USA' Just a Political Slogan to Conservatives
"Conservatives in Congress have once again proven they are not really interested in increasing jobs in the US if corporate campaigns are at stake. This time, it’s because of their fierce approval for the construction of the Keystone XL pipeline.
The pipeline, being built and run by TransCanada, will bring tar sands oil from Alberta to the Gulf Coast. All the oil will be exported. Major beneficiaries, including House Speaker John Boehner, are those who invest in a Canadian company."
"Conservatives in Congress have once again proven they are not really interested in increasing jobs in the US if corporate campaigns are at stake. This time, it’s because of their fierce approval for the construction of the Keystone XL pipeline.
The pipeline, being built and run by TransCanada, will bring tar sands oil from Alberta to the Gulf Coast. All the oil will be exported. Major beneficiaries, including House Speaker John Boehner, are those who invest in a Canadian company."
Brownback's Experiment In Supply-Side Economics Fails Miserably
Brownback's Experiment In Supply-Side Economics Fails Miserably
"Brownback called ALEC's Supply-Side Symphony "a real live experiment" in economics; the law completely eliminated taxes for 191,000 business owners in the state, and cut income taxes by a stunning 29 percent. Actually, that was just for the top income earners in the state, who now get to keep almost a third more of their millions than they did in 2009.
All of this was projected to cost the state $934 million in lost income over the next six years. In every way conceivable, this tax cut was a Conservative Libertarian dream come true, guaranteed to turn Kansas into a utopia of economic growth. Grover Norquist called Senate Bill HB 2117 "model legislation" for the nation, guaranteed to stimulate massive growth in the state. It was passed overwhelmingly by a chorus of GOP legislators, and signed into law by Brownback.
Ah-MEN, Reeeaaaagaaannn…
But, a funny thing happened on the way to Heaven.
Reality.
As anyone but a Republican could have predicted, Brownback's Law did almost nothing for the state in terms of business and employment growth. But it did a lot for the wealthiest business owners, shifting almost the entire state's remaining tax burden shifted squarely onto low- and middle-class workers. It also left Kansas with a $292 million budget shortfall as of June 2014, $314 million by the end of the year, and a predicted $2.5 billion by 2018."
"Brownback called ALEC's Supply-Side Symphony "a real live experiment" in economics; the law completely eliminated taxes for 191,000 business owners in the state, and cut income taxes by a stunning 29 percent. Actually, that was just for the top income earners in the state, who now get to keep almost a third more of their millions than they did in 2009.
All of this was projected to cost the state $934 million in lost income over the next six years. In every way conceivable, this tax cut was a Conservative Libertarian dream come true, guaranteed to turn Kansas into a utopia of economic growth. Grover Norquist called Senate Bill HB 2117 "model legislation" for the nation, guaranteed to stimulate massive growth in the state. It was passed overwhelmingly by a chorus of GOP legislators, and signed into law by Brownback.
Ah-MEN, Reeeaaaagaaannn…
But, a funny thing happened on the way to Heaven.
Reality.
As anyone but a Republican could have predicted, Brownback's Law did almost nothing for the state in terms of business and employment growth. But it did a lot for the wealthiest business owners, shifting almost the entire state's remaining tax burden shifted squarely onto low- and middle-class workers. It also left Kansas with a $292 million budget shortfall as of June 2014, $314 million by the end of the year, and a predicted $2.5 billion by 2018."
Exposing the Republican Party's Sleazy Playbook to Destroy Social Security | Alternet
Exposing the Republican Party's Sleazy Playbook to Destroy Social Security | Alternet
"In one of its first actions, the Republican House of Representatives of the 114th Congress, changed its rules to manufacture a Social Security crisis."
"In one of its first actions, the Republican House of Representatives of the 114th Congress, changed its rules to manufacture a Social Security crisis."
Consumer Protection Agency Seeks Limits on Payday Lenders
http://dealbook.nytimes.com/2015/02/08/consumer-protection-agency-seeks-limits-on-payday-lenders/?_r=1
"In the world of consumer finance, they are chameleons: payday lenders that alter their practices and shift their products ever so slightly to work around state laws aimed at stamping out short-term loans that can come with interest rates exceeding 300 percent.
Such maneuvers by the roughly $46 billion payday loan industry, state regulators say, have frustrated their efforts to protect consumers.
Now, for the first time, a federal regulator is entering the fray, drafting regulations that could sharply reduce the number of unaffordable loans that lenders can make."
"In the world of consumer finance, they are chameleons: payday lenders that alter their practices and shift their products ever so slightly to work around state laws aimed at stamping out short-term loans that can come with interest rates exceeding 300 percent.
Such maneuvers by the roughly $46 billion payday loan industry, state regulators say, have frustrated their efforts to protect consumers.
Now, for the first time, a federal regulator is entering the fray, drafting regulations that could sharply reduce the number of unaffordable loans that lenders can make."
Koch Cartel Blocking Medicaid Expansion, Denying Hundreds of Thousands Care | Alternet
Koch Cartel Blocking Medicaid Expansion, Denying Hundreds of Thousands Care | Alternet
"While it is not a surprise that the Republican war on Obamacare continues, it is new to see a handful of Republican governors push for Medicaid expansion while the GOP's Koch wing is essentially intimidating state lawmakers into voting no."
"While it is not a surprise that the Republican war on Obamacare continues, it is new to see a handful of Republican governors push for Medicaid expansion while the GOP's Koch wing is essentially intimidating state lawmakers into voting no."
Best Campaign Finance Reform Story Of The Year
Best Campaign Finance Reform Story Of The Year
"So here we’ve got us a woman whacker hosting the Gubernatorial Inauguration and sitting on Texas government advisory boards because he bought and paid for that"
"So here we’ve got us a woman whacker hosting the Gubernatorial Inauguration and sitting on Texas government advisory boards because he bought and paid for that"
Imaginary Future President Chris Christie Implicated in Yet Another Corruption Case
http://thedailybanter.com/2015/02/imaginary-future-president-chris-christie-implicated-yet-another-corruption-case/
"But while Christie’s legal problems are very serious indeed, he can rest easy knowing he’s in good company. Republican governors the country over have proven themselves to be craven, incompetent and wildly corrupt in a way that would make Boss Tweed blush and excuse himself."
"But while Christie’s legal problems are very serious indeed, he can rest easy knowing he’s in good company. Republican governors the country over have proven themselves to be craven, incompetent and wildly corrupt in a way that would make Boss Tweed blush and excuse himself."
GOP’s anti-school insanity: How Scott Walker & Bobby Jindal declared war on education
GOP’s anti-school insanity: How Scott Walker & Bobby Jindal declared war on education
"It's come to this: To appeal to the party's far-right base, GOP leaders want to gut public education."
"It's come to this: To appeal to the party's far-right base, GOP leaders want to gut public education."
Fox News Moron Insists Walmart Will Spontaneously Save Us When Disaster Strikes (Video)
Fox News Moron Insists Walmart Will Spontaneously Save Us When Disaster Strikes (Video)
"the fact that Stossel tried to compare how we should run a massive and complex society using the example of the direction skaters skate at a rink, and how they don’t need someone to tell them which way to go, shows just how absurd and simpleminded he really is."
"the fact that Stossel tried to compare how we should run a massive and complex society using the example of the direction skaters skate at a rink, and how they don’t need someone to tell them which way to go, shows just how absurd and simpleminded he really is."
Time Warner Fights Municipal Broadband By Taking Lawmakers And Their Spouses On Vacation
Time Warner Fights Municipal Broadband By Taking Lawmakers And Their Spouses On Vacation
"This isn’t the first time that Time Warner Cable bribed hosted Maine lawmakers to starve off municipal broadband plans. In 2013, Time Warner Cable hosted a similar event. Additionally, since 2008, Time Warner has donated more than $240,000 to Maine politicians."
"This isn’t the first time that Time Warner Cable bribed hosted Maine lawmakers to starve off municipal broadband plans. In 2013, Time Warner Cable hosted a similar event. Additionally, since 2008, Time Warner has donated more than $240,000 to Maine politicians."
Monday, February 9, 2015
After Historically Positive Jobs Report, John Boehner’s Tweet Once Again Proves He’s Delusional
After Historically Positive Jobs Report, John Boehner’s Tweet Once Again Proves He’s Delusional
"As most people know, the first Friday of every month marks the release of our nation’s monthly jobs report. And for 59 straight months now this nation has added jobs – the longest streak in U.S. history."
"As most people know, the first Friday of every month marks the release of our nation’s monthly jobs report. And for 59 straight months now this nation has added jobs – the longest streak in U.S. history."
Scott Walker Heightens Attack On Public Education
Scott Walker Heightens Attack On Public Education
"Shortly after Scott Walker was first elected as governor of Wisconsin, he set about attacking the state's education system to prepare it for privatization. His first act was to cut more than a billion dollars from the education system. The effects of this massive cut were devastating, so much so that even the school district that Walker championed as a "success story" is failing horribly.
This year, Walker and his Republican cohorts in the state legislature have upped their attacks on the public education system. Walker wants to eliminate the requirement that teachers actually know how to teach. Meanwhile, his cohorts in crimes against humanity are trying to mandate that the public schools they deem to be unworthy have to become private schools - all at the taxpayers' expense, of course."
"Shortly after Scott Walker was first elected as governor of Wisconsin, he set about attacking the state's education system to prepare it for privatization. His first act was to cut more than a billion dollars from the education system. The effects of this massive cut were devastating, so much so that even the school district that Walker championed as a "success story" is failing horribly.
This year, Walker and his Republican cohorts in the state legislature have upped their attacks on the public education system. Walker wants to eliminate the requirement that teachers actually know how to teach. Meanwhile, his cohorts in crimes against humanity are trying to mandate that the public schools they deem to be unworthy have to become private schools - all at the taxpayers' expense, of course."
Saturday, February 7, 2015
How American Oligarchs Are Pushing America to the Brink of Fascism | Alternet
How American Oligarchs Are Pushing America to the Brink of Fascism | Alternet
"As the American Heritage Dictionary noted, fascism is: "A system of government that exercises a dictatorship of the extreme right, typically through the merging of state and business leadership, together with belligerent nationalism"."
"As the American Heritage Dictionary noted, fascism is: "A system of government that exercises a dictatorship of the extreme right, typically through the merging of state and business leadership, together with belligerent nationalism"."
Koch-supporting Texas billionaires reveal their true agenda: An America that looks like Texas
Koch-supporting Texas billionaires reveal their true agenda: An America that looks like Texas
"They don’t acknowledge that most Koch network donors can hide their identity behind the fake non-profits Koch political consultants set up, nor that they are talking about monopolizing the microphone and drowning out debate.
“The federal government increasingly stifles the free speech of its opponents,” they write. “Both parties have attempted to limit Americans’ ability to speak their minds about elections and politicians. Last year, 54 U.S. senators voted to amend the First Amendment to give Congress unlimited power to control political speech. And some federal agencies — especially the Internal Revenue Service — have targeted individuals and groups with which they disagree.”
Yes, you remember the IRS spat. Some top agency officials had the gall to notice that a bunch of political activists—i.e, Tea Party chapters—were not forming political committees under state and federal campaign rules, but were pretending to be non-profit charities to hide their donors’ identities. This is the “dark money” game.
Clearly, there’s no difference between the Tea Party and the March of Dimes."
"They don’t acknowledge that most Koch network donors can hide their identity behind the fake non-profits Koch political consultants set up, nor that they are talking about monopolizing the microphone and drowning out debate.
“The federal government increasingly stifles the free speech of its opponents,” they write. “Both parties have attempted to limit Americans’ ability to speak their minds about elections and politicians. Last year, 54 U.S. senators voted to amend the First Amendment to give Congress unlimited power to control political speech. And some federal agencies — especially the Internal Revenue Service — have targeted individuals and groups with which they disagree.”
Yes, you remember the IRS spat. Some top agency officials had the gall to notice that a bunch of political activists—i.e, Tea Party chapters—were not forming political committees under state and federal campaign rules, but were pretending to be non-profit charities to hide their donors’ identities. This is the “dark money” game.
Clearly, there’s no difference between the Tea Party and the March of Dimes."
How the Roberts Supreme Court Has Strengthened the Powerful and Screwed Everyone Else | The Nation
How the Roberts Supreme Court Has Strengthened the Powerful and Screwed Everyone Else | The Nation
"The sad irony is that, rather than serve its traditional role as the institution of government where those shut out of the political process can find a voice, the Court has used its rulings to strengthen the already deafening voices of the wealthy and powerful."
"The sad irony is that, rather than serve its traditional role as the institution of government where those shut out of the political process can find a voice, the Court has used its rulings to strengthen the already deafening voices of the wealthy and powerful."
The Economy Added The Most Jobs Last Year Since 1999
http://thinkprogress.org/economy/2015/02/06/3620152/january-jobs-2/
"That represents the best year since 1999. The economy has added at least 200,000 jobs each month for the last 12 months, something not seen since 1994-1995."
"That represents the best year since 1999. The economy has added at least 200,000 jobs each month for the last 12 months, something not seen since 1994-1995."
Jeb Bush Points Out How Badly Our Economy Faltered During His Father And Brother’s Presidencies
Jeb Bush Points Out How Badly Our Economy Faltered During His Father And Brother’s Presidencies
"In the eyes of the Republican Party and those who continue to buy the lie that is trickle-down economics, Jeb Bush looks great. He looks like the return of the country club Republican (as my fiercely conservative mother likes to call them) and a renewed GOP focus on the economy instead of abortion, vaccines and discriminating against gay people. However, in making this statement, Jeb Bush has shown that President Obama has actually been better for the economy than either Bush president – and when the usual comments from conservatives come that it hasn’t done anything for them, you can gently remind them that they’ve admitted trickle-down economics don’t work."
"In the eyes of the Republican Party and those who continue to buy the lie that is trickle-down economics, Jeb Bush looks great. He looks like the return of the country club Republican (as my fiercely conservative mother likes to call them) and a renewed GOP focus on the economy instead of abortion, vaccines and discriminating against gay people. However, in making this statement, Jeb Bush has shown that President Obama has actually been better for the economy than either Bush president – and when the usual comments from conservatives come that it hasn’t done anything for them, you can gently remind them that they’ve admitted trickle-down economics don’t work."
Why Media Shouldn't Take GOP Attempts To Rebrand As Champions Of The Middle Class At Face Value
http://mediamatters.org/blog/2015/02/04/why-media-shouldnt-take-gop-attempts-to-rebrand/202407
"Early news coverage of the 2016 presidential campaign has tacitly allowed the GOP to disingenuously rebrand itself as a party of the middle class, despite the fact that the party's new rhetoric doesn't align with its policy positions that continue to exacerbate income inequality. When highlighting Republican rhetoric about the need to reduce income inequality, media should take care to hold the GOP accountable for its actions, not just its words."
"Early news coverage of the 2016 presidential campaign has tacitly allowed the GOP to disingenuously rebrand itself as a party of the middle class, despite the fact that the party's new rhetoric doesn't align with its policy positions that continue to exacerbate income inequality. When highlighting Republican rhetoric about the need to reduce income inequality, media should take care to hold the GOP accountable for its actions, not just its words."
Bernie Sanders Obliterates The Republican Job Creator Myth At Senate Hearing
http://www.politicususa.com/2015/02/03/bernie-sanders-obliterates-republican-job-creator-myth-senate-hearing.html
"Sen. Sanders was correct. There is no special class of job creators. Every single American that puts money back into the U.S. economy is a “job creator.” If Republicans want to protect the job creators, they should be cutting taxes for every American in the middle-class and below."
"Sen. Sanders was correct. There is no special class of job creators. Every single American that puts money back into the U.S. economy is a “job creator.” If Republicans want to protect the job creators, they should be cutting taxes for every American in the middle-class and below."
GOP Trickle Down Has 70% of Americans Near Financial Calamity
http://www.politicususa.com/2015/02/01/gop-trickle-70-americans-facing-financial-calamity.html
"For well over thirty years since Republican man-god Ronald Reagan declared that government is the evil destroying the great middle class, Republicans have maintained their demigod’s position that the solution to help the middle class is giving the richest Americans all of the nation’s assets and wealth. Since then, the rich have gotten richer and what was once a vibrant middle class is now less than vapor and on the verge of vanishing altogether. Instead of changing course and helping the majority of the population, Republicans still propose heaping wealth on the rich and increasing taxes on the bottom 90% of the population to complete the utter destruction of middle income earners. According to yet another report they are succeeding beyond their wildest dreams."
"For well over thirty years since Republican man-god Ronald Reagan declared that government is the evil destroying the great middle class, Republicans have maintained their demigod’s position that the solution to help the middle class is giving the richest Americans all of the nation’s assets and wealth. Since then, the rich have gotten richer and what was once a vibrant middle class is now less than vapor and on the verge of vanishing altogether. Instead of changing course and helping the majority of the population, Republicans still propose heaping wealth on the rich and increasing taxes on the bottom 90% of the population to complete the utter destruction of middle income earners. According to yet another report they are succeeding beyond their wildest dreams."
Jeb Bush's Cousin Is A Fox Business Executive
http://mediamatters.org/blog/2015/02/03/jeb-bushs-cousin-is-a-fox-business-executive/202089
"Ellis made headlines for his controversial role heading Fox News' decision desk during the 2000 election, when the network was the first to call Florida for another Ellis cousin, George W. Bush."
"Ellis made headlines for his controversial role heading Fox News' decision desk during the 2000 election, when the network was the first to call Florida for another Ellis cousin, George W. Bush."
While Trying to Bash the President, Ted Cruz Ends Up Proving GOP Economic Policies Don’t Work (Video)
While Trying to Bash the President, Ted Cruz Ends Up Proving GOP Economic Policies Don’t Work (Video)
"It’s just absurd to see Republicans like Cruz try to claim Obama’s policies are causing these massive issues with income inequality when this is a pattern we’ve seen building for decades and it’s a direct result of the failed economic ideology his party supports known as trickle-down economics. And when any Republican talks about wage stagnation, while also claiming that the rich are doing better than they ever have before, they’re flat-out admitting that their entire economic philosophy is one giant scam."
"It’s just absurd to see Republicans like Cruz try to claim Obama’s policies are causing these massive issues with income inequality when this is a pattern we’ve seen building for decades and it’s a direct result of the failed economic ideology his party supports known as trickle-down economics. And when any Republican talks about wage stagnation, while also claiming that the rich are doing better than they ever have before, they’re flat-out admitting that their entire economic philosophy is one giant scam."
Scott Walker’s hilarious screwup: How he messed with University of Wisconsin — and infuriated his state
Scott Walker’s hilarious screwup: How he messed with University of Wisconsin — and infuriated his state
"This guy is seriously the best the Republicans have? Here's why he's backtracking on a lame new education "reform"."
"This guy is seriously the best the Republicans have? Here's why he's backtracking on a lame new education "reform"."
Scott Walker's Attempted Murder Of The Wisconsin Idea Fails Spectacularly
Scott Walker's Attempted Murder Of The Wisconsin Idea Fails Spectacularly
"In summary, Walker wants to change the UW system into a taxpayer-funded jobs training program, another version of corporate welfare. Walker didn't expect anyone to notice this, but when they did and expressed their outrage, he tried to spin it as a drafting error. But his own words belie that lie.
I would dare say that Walker is hoping that, with the help of a cooperative and compliant corporate media, people will soon forget this egregious pandering to his dark money benefactors and will allow his changes to stand.
The only thing Walker has left to do is change the UW-Madison mascot from a badger to one more suiting of himself - a weasel."
"In summary, Walker wants to change the UW system into a taxpayer-funded jobs training program, another version of corporate welfare. Walker didn't expect anyone to notice this, but when they did and expressed their outrage, he tried to spin it as a drafting error. But his own words belie that lie.
I would dare say that Walker is hoping that, with the help of a cooperative and compliant corporate media, people will soon forget this egregious pandering to his dark money benefactors and will allow his changes to stand.
The only thing Walker has left to do is change the UW-Madison mascot from a badger to one more suiting of himself - a weasel."
Walker Strikes Truth and Wisconsin Idea from UW Mission in Budget
Walker Strikes Truth and Wisconsin Idea from UW Mission in Budget
"In addition to unprecedented budget cuts to the University of Wisconsin (UW) system, Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker struck "the search for truth" and the Wisconsin Idea from the university's mission in his executive budget bill unveiled last night."
"In addition to unprecedented budget cuts to the University of Wisconsin (UW) system, Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker struck "the search for truth" and the Wisconsin Idea from the university's mission in his executive budget bill unveiled last night."
Wisconsin Bully Gov. Scott Walker's New Hard Core Right-Wing Message | Alternet
Wisconsin Bully Gov. Scott Walker's New Hard Core Right-Wing Message | Alternet
"Walker’s vain narrative, where he casts himself as a conservative hero, pleased Republicans on the call, according to the Register."
"Walker’s vain narrative, where he casts himself as a conservative hero, pleased Republicans on the call, according to the Register."
Thugs and Demagogues: 7 Right-Wing Wackos the Media Will Shove Down Our Throats in 2016 | Alternet
Thugs and Demagogues: 7 Right-Wing Wackos the Media Will Shove Down Our Throats in 2016 | Alternet
"Thanks to the Kochs, ready or not, here they come."
"Thanks to the Kochs, ready or not, here they come."
Scott Walker's War on Wisconsin
Scott Walker's War on Wisconsin
"By the time he leaves the governor's mansion, our once great public school system, our model environmental protections and our world-class university will be mere shadows of their former selves.
Walker is, of course, a favorite of the Koch brothers. He showed up at their swanky retreat in Palm Springs after his star turn in Iowa, just as the Kochs announced they will spend $889 million in the 2016 election cycle––as much as each party's presidential nominee.
Walker is a great frontman for the Kochs' ideology: union busting; deregulation, especially of their own fossil fuel industry (the governor in Iowa said Wisconsin was planning to sue the federal government over new EPA limits on power plant carbon emissions); tax cuts for the rich; repeal of the Affordable Care Act (another Walker applause line); and the privatization of everything."
"By the time he leaves the governor's mansion, our once great public school system, our model environmental protections and our world-class university will be mere shadows of their former selves.
Walker is, of course, a favorite of the Koch brothers. He showed up at their swanky retreat in Palm Springs after his star turn in Iowa, just as the Kochs announced they will spend $889 million in the 2016 election cycle––as much as each party's presidential nominee.
Walker is a great frontman for the Kochs' ideology: union busting; deregulation, especially of their own fossil fuel industry (the governor in Iowa said Wisconsin was planning to sue the federal government over new EPA limits on power plant carbon emissions); tax cuts for the rich; repeal of the Affordable Care Act (another Walker applause line); and the privatization of everything."
Friday, February 6, 2015
Republicans Call for Imposing ALEC Zones on Poorest Neighborhoods of Milwaukee
Republicans Call for Imposing ALEC Zones on Poorest Neighborhoods of Milwaukee
"Two suburban Wisconsin lawmakers have unveiled an economic development plan for the lowest-income neighborhoods of Milwaukee, and their "solutions" for the Wisconsin communities hit hardest by deindustrialization come directly from a national right-wing playbook.
Rep. Dale Kooyenga (R-Brookfield) and Sen. Alberta Darling (R-River Hills) represent two of the wealthiest districts in Wisconsin and have no background in economic development, yet have proposed at 23-page plan targeting the majority-minority communities with the highest unemployment rates in the state -- and have done so without consulting any of the elected officials who actually represent the area."
"Two suburban Wisconsin lawmakers have unveiled an economic development plan for the lowest-income neighborhoods of Milwaukee, and their "solutions" for the Wisconsin communities hit hardest by deindustrialization come directly from a national right-wing playbook.
Rep. Dale Kooyenga (R-Brookfield) and Sen. Alberta Darling (R-River Hills) represent two of the wealthiest districts in Wisconsin and have no background in economic development, yet have proposed at 23-page plan targeting the majority-minority communities with the highest unemployment rates in the state -- and have done so without consulting any of the elected officials who actually represent the area."
Scott Walker, The Big And Bold (Faced Liar)
Scott Walker, The Big And Bold (Faced Liar)
"Big and bold lie #1: Walker promised to create 250,000 jobs in his first term in office.
Reality: As of last September, there has been 102,000 jobs created since Walker took office. And many of those jobs came during the first six months of his term, before any of his policies or budgets took effect.
As if Walker's job abysmal job creation record wasn't bad enough, Wisconsin's wages are at the bottom of the scale as well. Hell, even Chuck Todd knew that!"
"Big and bold lie #1: Walker promised to create 250,000 jobs in his first term in office.
Reality: As of last September, there has been 102,000 jobs created since Walker took office. And many of those jobs came during the first six months of his term, before any of his policies or budgets took effect.
As if Walker's job abysmal job creation record wasn't bad enough, Wisconsin's wages are at the bottom of the scale as well. Hell, even Chuck Todd knew that!"
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