www.mediamatters.org/blog/2013/10/31/george-will-who-cares-about-corruption-citizens/196695
"Nevertheless, Will goes on to call the Supreme Court's decision in Citizens United -- one that allowed a tsunami of corporate money to enter the election process -- an "excellent" one. But even Citizens United noted the corrupting danger of unchecked money in the political system, and transparency was explicitly recognized as the critical protection against such a problem."
Thursday, October 31, 2013
Report Exposes 'Unprecedented, Corporate-Backed Attack on Workers' | Common Dreams
Report Exposes 'Unprecedented, Corporate-Backed Attack on Workers' | Common Dreams
"A new report by the Economic Policy Institute released Thursday, examining the "unprecedented" attack on the rights of both unionized and nonunionized workers in states across the country, reveals how the right-wing machine in recent years has crippled the gains of a once prosperous middle class."
"A new report by the Economic Policy Institute released Thursday, examining the "unprecedented" attack on the rights of both unionized and nonunionized workers in states across the country, reveals how the right-wing machine in recent years has crippled the gains of a once prosperous middle class."
MSNBC's All In Reports on Devastating Food Stamp Cuts Rest of the Media is Ignoring
MSNBC's All In Reports on Devastating Food Stamp Cuts Rest of the Media is Ignoring
"These right-wingers hate the poor. They hate minimum wage which might help lift them out of poverty. They hate taxes if they're going to the "lazy moochers" who don't deserve to have food put in their mouths. And they don't want to do a thing about outsourcing and shipping jobs overseas. And they hate public education. But they expect everyone to pull themselves up by their own bootstraps by whatever means necessary. It's long past time these people were shown the door."
"These right-wingers hate the poor. They hate minimum wage which might help lift them out of poverty. They hate taxes if they're going to the "lazy moochers" who don't deserve to have food put in their mouths. And they don't want to do a thing about outsourcing and shipping jobs overseas. And they hate public education. But they expect everyone to pull themselves up by their own bootstraps by whatever means necessary. It's long past time these people were shown the door."
Eyes of the Nation on Colorado Towns' Fracking Fight | Common Dreams
Eyes of the Nation on Colorado Towns' Fracking Fight | Common Dreams
"In what many are calling the new "ground zero" in the national fight against fracking, the toxic gas and oil extracting process is on the ballot in four Colorado towns where citizens are taking on the heavyweights of the fossil fuel industry."
"In what many are calling the new "ground zero" in the national fight against fracking, the toxic gas and oil extracting process is on the ballot in four Colorado towns where citizens are taking on the heavyweights of the fossil fuel industry."
California’s Online Sales Tax Is Bringing In Millions Of Dollars
California’s Online Sales Tax Is Bringing In Millions Of Dollars: A year after closing the "Amazon loophole," California is generating millions in online sales tax revenue.
25 Facts Right-Wingers Desperately Want Us to Forget | Alternet
25 Facts Right-Wingers Desperately Want Us to Forget | Alternet
"Now that we have named the disease, we have to point to the cure: the facts. Here are 25 facts that right-wingers often forget, overlook, omit or ignore."
"Now that we have named the disease, we have to point to the cure: the facts. Here are 25 facts that right-wingers often forget, overlook, omit or ignore."
Ractopamine: The Meat Additive on Your Plate That's Banned Almost Everywhere But America | Alternet
Ractopamine: The Meat Additive on Your Plate That's Banned Almost Everywhere But America | Alternet
"Have you ever heard of ractopamine? Neither have most US food consumers though it is used in 80 percent of US pig and cattle operations. The asthma drug-like growth additive, called a beta-agonist, has enjoyed stealth use in the US food supply for a decade despite being widely banned overseas. It is marketed as Paylean for pigs, Optaflexx for cattle and Topmax for turkeys."
"Have you ever heard of ractopamine? Neither have most US food consumers though it is used in 80 percent of US pig and cattle operations. The asthma drug-like growth additive, called a beta-agonist, has enjoyed stealth use in the US food supply for a decade despite being widely banned overseas. It is marketed as Paylean for pigs, Optaflexx for cattle and Topmax for turkeys."
Wednesday, October 30, 2013
Study: Arctic Sea Ice Loss Shifts Jet Stream, Driving Deluges In NW Europe, Drought In Mediterranean
Study: Arctic Sea Ice Loss Shifts Jet Stream, Driving Deluges In NW Europe, Drought In Mediterranean: Yet another study finds Arctic sea ice loss can shift the jet stream and alter the climate.
Japan Greenlights 'Perilous' Cleanup at Fukushima's Reactor 4 | Common Dreams
Japan Greenlights 'Perilous' Cleanup at Fukushima's Reactor 4 | Common Dreams
"Regulators with Japan's Nuclear Regulation Authority gave the final OK Wednesday for the operator of the crippled Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant to begin to remove the 1300 spent fuel rods from the badly damaged Unit 4 pool, thus initiating a decommissioning process which anti-nuclear activist Harvey Wasserman describes as "humankind’s most dangerous moment since the Cuban Missile Crisis"."
"Regulators with Japan's Nuclear Regulation Authority gave the final OK Wednesday for the operator of the crippled Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant to begin to remove the 1300 spent fuel rods from the badly damaged Unit 4 pool, thus initiating a decommissioning process which anti-nuclear activist Harvey Wasserman describes as "humankind’s most dangerous moment since the Cuban Missile Crisis"."
Tuesday, October 29, 2013
How 2016 Could Be An Even Bigger Democratic Blowout Than 2008
How 2016 Could Be An Even Bigger Democratic Blowout Than 2008: Democrats could make progress in 2016 toward a decades-long aspiration: a Bobby Kennedy-style coalition that unites minorities, young people, and educated liberals with working class whites.
JP Morgan Settlement May Be Closer to $9 Billion After Tax Deductions
JP Morgan Settlement May Be Closer to $9 Billion After Tax Deductions
"I'd like to know when Jamie Dimon is going to prison, but I'm not holding my breath in the hope we're ever going to see that happen any time soon. And now after all of that wailing about how unfair this $13 billion settlement is for poor downtrodden JP Morgan Chase, we find out it's likely to be a whole lot lower"
"I'd like to know when Jamie Dimon is going to prison, but I'm not holding my breath in the hope we're ever going to see that happen any time soon. And now after all of that wailing about how unfair this $13 billion settlement is for poor downtrodden JP Morgan Chase, we find out it's likely to be a whole lot lower"
Obama Administration: Half Of Young Adults Can Get Marketplace Coverage For $50 Or Less A Month
Obama Administration: Half Of Young Adults Can Get Marketplace Coverage For $50 Or Less A Month: A new government report finds good news for 40 percent of the 7.2 million young, uninsured adults living in states with a federal Obamacare marketplace.
The Coming Food Stamp Cut Will Hit 900,000 Veterans
The Coming Food Stamp Cut Will Hit 900,000 Veterans: The country's veterans face challenges in the job market and disproportionate homelessness, so they will be even more impacted by cuts.
Monday, October 28, 2013
How Sequestration Gets Even Worse Next Year
How Sequestration Gets Even Worse Next Year: The accounting gimmicks and emergency measures that muted the impact this year won't be available anymore.
Say Goodbye to Your Antibiotics - Truthdig
Say Goodbye to Your Antibiotics - Truthdig
"We’ve reached the limits of medicine’s effectiveness. Thanks to overmedication and the abuse of antibiotics in the agriculture industry, there are infections that can no longer be treated with antibiotics. And there’s nothing left to do except maybe hope for the best."
"We’ve reached the limits of medicine’s effectiveness. Thanks to overmedication and the abuse of antibiotics in the agriculture industry, there are infections that can no longer be treated with antibiotics. And there’s nothing left to do except maybe hope for the best."
How Alan Greenspan Destroyed America | Alternet
How Alan Greenspan Destroyed America | Alternet
"Alan Greenspan will go down in history as the person most responsible for the enormous economic damage caused by the housing bubble and the subsequent collapse of the market. The United States is still down almost 9m jobs from its trend path. We are losing close to $1tn a year in potential output, with cumulative losses to date approaching $5tn.
"Alan Greenspan will go down in history as the person most responsible for the enormous economic damage caused by the housing bubble and the subsequent collapse of the market. The United States is still down almost 9m jobs from its trend path. We are losing close to $1tn a year in potential output, with cumulative losses to date approaching $5tn.
These numbers correspond to millions of dreams ruined. Families who struggled to save enough to buy a home lost it when house prices plunged or they lost their jobs. Many older workers lose their job with little hope of ever finding another one, even though they are ill-prepared for retirement; young people getting out of school are facing the worst job market since the Great Depression, while buried in student loan debt."
With JPMorgan Under Spotlight, Growing Calls to Jail the Banksters | Common Dreams
With JPMorgan Under Spotlight, Growing Calls to Jail the Banksters | Common Dreams
"While JPMorgan Chase's $13 billion settlement for its "shady practices that five years ago helped trigger the financial meltdown, including manipulating mortgages and sending millions of Americans into bankruptcy or foreclosure" has gained attention for its record amount, a number of banking reform advocates are saying real accountability will come when executives are prosecuted and sent to jail for illegal activity."
"While JPMorgan Chase's $13 billion settlement for its "shady practices that five years ago helped trigger the financial meltdown, including manipulating mortgages and sending millions of Americans into bankruptcy or foreclosure" has gained attention for its record amount, a number of banking reform advocates are saying real accountability will come when executives are prosecuted and sent to jail for illegal activity."
Campaign To Defeat GMO Labeling In Washington Gets $21 Million From Industry, $550 From Actual People
Campaign To Defeat GMO Labeling In Washington Gets $21 Million From Industry, $550 From Actual People: Human beings who live in Washington have donated .0025 percent of the total funding blitz leveled against the upcoming GMO labeling initiative.
Deregulating Wall Street Makes Bankers Richer And Hurts Everyone Else
Deregulating Wall Street Makes Bankers Richer And Hurts Everyone Else: New research shows that unshackling Wall Street redistributes wealth to bankers at the expense of the rest of the economy.
The New Nullification Movement | The Nation
The New Nullification Movement | The Nation
"In reality, the two-tiered system of registration being set up in Arizona and Kansas has far less to do with stopping voter registration fraud (which, as shown, is very rare in both states) than with “nullifying” federal laws that Republicans don’t like, such as Obamacare. There’s a symmetry between shutting down the government and creating separate and unequal systems of voting. It’s a strategy that dates back to the antebellum South, when fierce segregationists like John C. Calhoun tried to prevent the federal government from interfering with slavery and taxing the region."
"In reality, the two-tiered system of registration being set up in Arizona and Kansas has far less to do with stopping voter registration fraud (which, as shown, is very rare in both states) than with “nullifying” federal laws that Republicans don’t like, such as Obamacare. There’s a symmetry between shutting down the government and creating separate and unequal systems of voting. It’s a strategy that dates back to the antebellum South, when fierce segregationists like John C. Calhoun tried to prevent the federal government from interfering with slavery and taxing the region."
Santorum: Cruz ‘Did More Harm’ Than Good During Shutdown Fight
Santorum: Cruz ‘Did More Harm’ Than Good During Shutdown Fight:
"The harm Cruz did does not extend only to the GOPs image, though. As Cruz and other Republicans opposed raising the debt ceiling, the shutdown and the simultaneous threat of default cost the economy $24 billion, according to Standard & Poor’s, and at least 120,000 jobs, according to the White House’s Council of Economic Advisers. A similar fight in 2011 cost the country as many as a million jobs. And the GOP’s preferred spending cuts are crushing economic growth too. So when it comes to fully recovering from the recession and its aftermath, it isn’t just Ted Cruz causing problems. Republican policy priorities are causing more harm than good too."
"The harm Cruz did does not extend only to the GOPs image, though. As Cruz and other Republicans opposed raising the debt ceiling, the shutdown and the simultaneous threat of default cost the economy $24 billion, according to Standard & Poor’s, and at least 120,000 jobs, according to the White House’s Council of Economic Advisers. A similar fight in 2011 cost the country as many as a million jobs. And the GOP’s preferred spending cuts are crushing economic growth too. So when it comes to fully recovering from the recession and its aftermath, it isn’t just Ted Cruz causing problems. Republican policy priorities are causing more harm than good too."
5 Reasons Why Cutting Social Security Would Be Irrational | Alternet
5 Reasons Why Cutting Social Security Would Be Irrational | Alternet
"Cutting this popular and well-run and life-sustaining program would be irrational."
"Cutting this popular and well-run and life-sustaining program would be irrational."
Meet 3 Master Manipulators of America’s Oligarchy | Alternet
Meet 3 Master Manipulators of America’s Oligarchy | Alternet
"Whether they’re ginning up deficit hysteria to cut Social Security or blaming teachers and firefighters for state budget crises, these 1 percenters pose as defenders of your interests while arranging things so that they can plunder America and leave hard-working people with scraps."
"Whether they’re ginning up deficit hysteria to cut Social Security or blaming teachers and firefighters for state budget crises, these 1 percenters pose as defenders of your interests while arranging things so that they can plunder America and leave hard-working people with scraps."
Sunday, October 27, 2013
Nearly 300 Oil Spills Went Unreported In North Dakota In Less Than Two Years
Nearly 300 Oil Spills Went Unreported In North Dakota In Less Than Two Years: Nearly 300 oil spills and 750 "oil field incidents" have occurred in North Dakota since January 2012 and none were reported to the public, according to a report released Friday by the Associated Press.
Saturday, October 26, 2013
Fukushima’s Radiation Gusher: Could the Entire Pacific Fishery Be Tainted? | Alternet
Fukushima’s Radiation Gusher: Could the Entire Pacific Fishery Be Tainted? | Alternet
"The Seattle Times reported last October that researchers found small amounts of Fukushima’s cesium in albacore tuna caught off the coasts of Washington and Oregon. The albacore warning followed the May 2012 and Feb. 2013 findings of cesium-contamination in Blue fin tuna caught off California."
"The Seattle Times reported last October that researchers found small amounts of Fukushima’s cesium in albacore tuna caught off the coasts of Washington and Oregon. The albacore warning followed the May 2012 and Feb. 2013 findings of cesium-contamination in Blue fin tuna caught off California."
Friday, October 25, 2013
Beyond Tipping Point: Global Warming Has Raised Arctic Temps to Hottest in 120,000 Years | Common Dreams
Beyond Tipping Point: Global Warming Has Raised Arctic Temps to Hottest in 120,000 Years | Common Dreams
"Scientists have long known that climate change is warming the arctic at an alarming rate. But new research shows that in some areas—where human-caused climate change has driven temperatures higher than they've been for tens of thousands of years—melting polar ice caps are now beyond any hope of saving."
"Scientists have long known that climate change is warming the arctic at an alarming rate. But new research shows that in some areas—where human-caused climate change has driven temperatures higher than they've been for tens of thousands of years—melting polar ice caps are now beyond any hope of saving."
PERRspectives: Paul Ryan's Secret Love Affair with Obamacare
PERRspectives: Paul Ryan's Secret Love Affair with Obamacare
"The Affordable Care Act, Republicans and their right-wing water carriers warn, is the worst thing to happen to America since slavery and theFugitive Slave Act. But for Congressional Republicans in general and Paul Ryan in particular, Obamacare also happens to be the love that dare not speak its name. After all, Ryan's dangerous and unpopular voucher scheme to privatize Medicare not only depends on the success of the very kind of health insurance exchanges he now decries, but also requires the ACA to cover the 65 and 66 year-old beneficiaries he would drop from the program covering 49 million seniors. And as it turns out, the same Paul Ryan who would defund, delay or repeal Obamacare nevertheless wants to keep every penny in new revenue it generates in order to fund his massive tax cut windfall for the wealthy."
"The Affordable Care Act, Republicans and their right-wing water carriers warn, is the worst thing to happen to America since slavery and theFugitive Slave Act. But for Congressional Republicans in general and Paul Ryan in particular, Obamacare also happens to be the love that dare not speak its name. After all, Ryan's dangerous and unpopular voucher scheme to privatize Medicare not only depends on the success of the very kind of health insurance exchanges he now decries, but also requires the ACA to cover the 65 and 66 year-old beneficiaries he would drop from the program covering 49 million seniors. And as it turns out, the same Paul Ryan who would defund, delay or repeal Obamacare nevertheless wants to keep every penny in new revenue it generates in order to fund his massive tax cut windfall for the wealthy."
North Carolina GOP Official Resigns After Racist 'Daily Show' Interview
North Carolina GOP Official Resigns After Racist 'Daily Show' Interview
"The chickens are coming home to roost in North Carolina, as at least one official decided to speak candidly about their voter suppression efforts."
"The chickens are coming home to roost in North Carolina, as at least one official decided to speak candidly about their voter suppression efforts."
Cuccinelli Brags About His ‘A’ NRA Rating At Site Of Mass Shooting Where 32 People Were Killed
Cuccinelli Brags About His ‘A’ NRA Rating At Site Of Mass Shooting Where 32 People Were Killed: Virginia Attorney General Ken Cuccinelli II (R) boasted at Virginia Tech, site of the 2007 shootings that killed 32 people, that he opposed universal background checks and was proud of his "A" rating from the National Rifle Association.
Republicans Demand Social Security And Medicare Cuts, Is It Reported? | Common Dreams
Republicans Demand Social Security And Medicare Cuts, Is It Reported? | Common Dreams
"Republicans are demanding cuts in Social Security and Medicare if Democrats want to change the terms of the “sequester.” I’m sure their Tea Party “base” would be shocked if they understood this. So would most Americans. So is the media giving Americans the information they need in order to make informed decisions?"
"Republicans are demanding cuts in Social Security and Medicare if Democrats want to change the terms of the “sequester.” I’m sure their Tea Party “base” would be shocked if they understood this. So would most Americans. So is the media giving Americans the information they need in order to make informed decisions?"
Thursday, October 24, 2013
WATCH: Comedian Russell Brand's Brilliant Tirade Against a Broken Political System | Alternet
WATCH: Comedian Russell Brand's Brilliant Tirade Against a Broken Political System | Alternet
"In a combative interview with the BBC, Brand shows he's a rather revolutionary thinker."
"In a combative interview with the BBC, Brand shows he's a rather revolutionary thinker."
Mississippi Candidate Has Ties to Secessionist Groups
Mississippi Candidate Has Ties to Secessionist Groups
"Is it even possible to run to the right of an ultra-conservative Mississippi senator? In Mississippi, it seems that it is, provided you spout neoconfederate views, are a birther, and a reactionary."
"Is it even possible to run to the right of an ultra-conservative Mississippi senator? In Mississippi, it seems that it is, provided you spout neoconfederate views, are a birther, and a reactionary."
Fukushima Water Radiation Doubles Overnight | Common Dreams
Fukushima Water Radiation Doubles Overnight | Common Dreams
"Water radiation levels at Fukushima Dai-Ichi nuclear plant more than doubled in the span of one night to levels 14,000 times the maximum level for safe drinking water, owner TEPCOadmitted Thursday, setting new records for drainage ditch contamination as toxic spills and heavy rains continue to ravage the crippled facility."
"Water radiation levels at Fukushima Dai-Ichi nuclear plant more than doubled in the span of one night to levels 14,000 times the maximum level for safe drinking water, owner TEPCOadmitted Thursday, setting new records for drainage ditch contamination as toxic spills and heavy rains continue to ravage the crippled facility."
Fuel Removal From Fukushima's Reactor 4 Threatens 'Apocalyptic' Scenario | Common Dreams
Fuel Removal From Fukushima's Reactor 4 Threatens 'Apocalyptic' Scenario | Common Dreams
"An operation with potentially "apocalyptic" consequences is expected to take place a little over two weeks from now at Fukushima's damaged and sinking Reactor 4, when plant operator TEPCO will attempt to remove over 1300 spent fuel rods holding the radiation equivalent of 14,000 Hiroshima bombs from a spent fuel storage tank perched on the reactor's upper floor."
"An operation with potentially "apocalyptic" consequences is expected to take place a little over two weeks from now at Fukushima's damaged and sinking Reactor 4, when plant operator TEPCO will attempt to remove over 1300 spent fuel rods holding the radiation equivalent of 14,000 Hiroshima bombs from a spent fuel storage tank perched on the reactor's upper floor."
Five Cities That Are Taking Climate Preparation Seriously
Five Cities That Are Taking Climate Preparation Seriously: Cities are taking the lead in climate resiliency, but more must be done to prepare for another Superstorm Sandy-like event.
The Affordable Care Act’s Lower-Than-Projected Premiums Will Save $190 Billion
www.americanprogress.org/issues/healthcare/report/2013/10/23/77537/the-affordable-care-acts-lower-than-projected-premiums-will-save-190-billion/
"These savings will boost the health law’s amount of deficit reduction by 174 percent and represent about 40 percent of the health care savings proposed by the National Commission on Fiscal Responsibility and Reform—commonly known as the Simpson-Bowles commission—in 2010.
Moreover, we estimate that lower premiums will lower the number of uninsured even further, by an additional 700,000 people, even as the number of individuals who receive tax credits will decline because insurance is more affordable."
"These savings will boost the health law’s amount of deficit reduction by 174 percent and represent about 40 percent of the health care savings proposed by the National Commission on Fiscal Responsibility and Reform—commonly known as the Simpson-Bowles commission—in 2010.
Moreover, we estimate that lower premiums will lower the number of uninsured even further, by an additional 700,000 people, even as the number of individuals who receive tax credits will decline because insurance is more affordable."
Defense Contractors Profit Despite Sequestration And Shutdown
Defense Contractors Profit Despite Sequestration And Shutdown: Shutdown? No problem. Sequestration? No sweat. Defense contracts continue to show huge profits.
The Trillion Dollare Money Pump for the 1% | Common Dreams
The Trillion Dollare Money Pump for the 1% | Common Dreams
"It took decades to create this trillion dollar money pump for the 1 Percent."
"It took decades to create this trillion dollar money pump for the 1 Percent."
4 Things You Need to Know About the Plot to Sell Off Your Pensions to Wall Street | Alternet
4 Things You Need to Know About the Plot to Sell Off Your Pensions to Wall Street | Alternet
"What your state legislators actually mean when they start throwing around the Orwellian phrase “pension reform"."
"What your state legislators actually mean when they start throwing around the Orwellian phrase “pension reform"."
6 Most Brazen Right-Wing Lies About Obamacare | Alternet
6 Most Brazen Right-Wing Lies About Obamacare | Alternet
"These are not the hackneyed GOP talking points about death panels, job killers and government bureaucrats coming between patients and doctors. These are far more fanciful efforts that stretch the limits of credulity and appear to have more in common with satire than actual news reporting. But this is what it has come to as Obamacare has finally reached the consumer stage and conservatives are desperate to keep people from discovering its benefits."
"These are not the hackneyed GOP talking points about death panels, job killers and government bureaucrats coming between patients and doctors. These are far more fanciful efforts that stretch the limits of credulity and appear to have more in common with satire than actual news reporting. But this is what it has come to as Obamacare has finally reached the consumer stage and conservatives are desperate to keep people from discovering its benefits."
Wednesday, October 23, 2013
Denmark Is the Happiest Country on Earth! You'll Never Guess Why | Alternet
Denmark Is the Happiest Country on Earth! You'll Never Guess Why | Alternet
"The six factors for a happy nation split evenly between concerns on a government- and on a human-scale. The happiest countries have in common a large GDP per capita, healthy life expectancy at birth and a lack of corruption in leadership. But also essential were three things over which individual citizens have a bit more control over: A sense of social support, freedom to make life choices and a culture of generosity."
"The six factors for a happy nation split evenly between concerns on a government- and on a human-scale. The happiest countries have in common a large GDP per capita, healthy life expectancy at birth and a lack of corruption in leadership. But also essential were three things over which individual citizens have a bit more control over: A sense of social support, freedom to make life choices and a culture of generosity."
Pepsi, Nestle, Coca Cola Revealed as Big Money Behind GMO Labeling Fight | Common Dreams
Pepsi, Nestle, Coca Cola Revealed as Big Money Behind GMO Labeling Fight | Common Dreams
"Following ongoing legal pressure from campaign groups and the Washington State Attorney General's office, pro-GMO trade group the Grocery Manufacturers Association released a list of high rolling donors to their campaign aimed at blocking GMO labeling in the state."
"Following ongoing legal pressure from campaign groups and the Washington State Attorney General's office, pro-GMO trade group the Grocery Manufacturers Association released a list of high rolling donors to their campaign aimed at blocking GMO labeling in the state."
Fukushima - A Global Threat That Requires a Global Response
Fukushima - A Global Threat That Requires a Global Response
"The story of Fukushima should be on the front pages of every newspaper. Instead, it is rarely mentioned. The problems at Fukushima are unprecedented in human experience and involve a high risk of radiation events larger than any that the global community has ever experienced. It is going to take the best engineering minds in the world to solve these problems and to diminish their global impact."
"The story of Fukushima should be on the front pages of every newspaper. Instead, it is rarely mentioned. The problems at Fukushima are unprecedented in human experience and involve a high risk of radiation events larger than any that the global community has ever experienced. It is going to take the best engineering minds in the world to solve these problems and to diminish their global impact."
Three Extreme Right-Wing Ideologies Have Taken Over the Republican Party -- and Could Destroy It Forever | Alternet
Three Extreme Right-Wing Ideologies Have Taken Over the Republican Party -- and Could Destroy It Forever | Alternet
"The overlapping ideologies of Ayn Rand capitalists, Christian fundamentalists and neo-Confederate white supremacists is a toxic mix"
"The overlapping ideologies of Ayn Rand capitalists, Christian fundamentalists and neo-Confederate white supremacists is a toxic mix"
How Obamacare Will Save The Federal Government $190 Billion
How Obamacare Will Save The Federal Government $190 Billion: The emergence of new insurers and increased competition within the law's marketplaces has lowered premiums, leading to big savings for consumers and the federal government.
Obamacare off to great start in Kentucky, Washington, Oregon
www.dailykos.com/story/2013/10/22/1249670/-Obamacare-off-to-great-start-in-Kentucky-Washington-nbsp-Oregon
"What do all these states have in common? Democratic governors who actually want everyone in their state to have access to health care."
"What do all these states have in common? Democratic governors who actually want everyone in their state to have access to health care."
Shutdown And Debt Ceiling Fights Cost 120,000 Jobs In Two Weeks
Shutdown And Debt Ceiling Fights Cost 120,000 Jobs In Two Weeks: The recent brinkmanship quickly cost the economy jobs and growth.
The Growing Public Health Threat That Congress Isn’t Doing Anything About
The Growing Public Health Threat That Congress Isn’t Doing Anything About: The rise of antibiotic-resistant diseases in animals may be one of the biggest issues you've never heard of. And Congress isn't helping.
Tuesday, October 22, 2013
A Hedge Fund Is Now The Largest Landlord In A Small Ohio Town
A Hedge Fund Is Now The Largest Landlord In A Small Ohio Town: Magnetar Capital bought up 9 percent of the homes in Huber Heights, Ohio.
Social Security Pumps $2 Into US Economy for Every Benefit Dollar Spent
Social Security Pumps $2 Into US Economy for Every Benefit Dollar Spent
"Just as Food Stamps stimulate the economy by creating about $1.80 of economic activity for every dollar of Food Stamps spent, Social Secuity pumps up job-generating and business activity by about $2 for every dollar recipients spend. This is according to a new study by the AARP"
"Just as Food Stamps stimulate the economy by creating about $1.80 of economic activity for every dollar of Food Stamps spent, Social Secuity pumps up job-generating and business activity by about $2 for every dollar recipients spend. This is according to a new study by the AARP"
Support For Marijuana Legalization Reaches Historic High Of 58 Percent
Support For Marijuana Legalization Reaches Historic High Of 58 Percent: As the nation grows increasingly comfortable with marijuana use, the Obama Administration's policy on the drug is somewhat incoherent.
Coulter 'Proud of Republicans' For ‘Magnificent, Run Beautifully’ Government Shutdown
Coulter 'Proud of Republicans' For ‘Magnificent, Run Beautifully’ Government Shutdown
"These millionaire pundits might think this is some sort of a game where the real damage done to people's lives and livelihoods don't matter much, but I doubt most of the public shares their view of the harm that was done to the country due to Republicans' brinksmanship, pure spite and their desire to lash out due to their overwhelming hatred of President Obama."
"These millionaire pundits might think this is some sort of a game where the real damage done to people's lives and livelihoods don't matter much, but I doubt most of the public shares their view of the harm that was done to the country due to Republicans' brinksmanship, pure spite and their desire to lash out due to their overwhelming hatred of President Obama."
Texas Republican Judge Switches Party, Denouncing GOP as Party of Bigots and Hate-Mongers | Alternet
Texas Republican Judge Switches Party, Denouncing GOP as Party of Bigots and Hate-Mongers | Alternet
"A Republican Judge from San Antonio, Texas, has announced he is quitting the GOP and will seek re-election as a Democrat, saying that he can no longer be part of political party whose identity is based on hate, bigotry and destrying people’s lives."
"A Republican Judge from San Antonio, Texas, has announced he is quitting the GOP and will seek re-election as a Democrat, saying that he can no longer be part of political party whose identity is based on hate, bigotry and destrying people’s lives."
Democracy Under Threat as Media Giants Gobble Up Local TV: Study | Common Dreams
Democracy Under Threat as Media Giants Gobble Up Local TV: Study | Common Dreams
"In a new wave of rapid media consolidation, large and unaccountable telecommunication corporations are gobbling up local television stations nationwide, according to a new study, devouring the interests of communities and unwitting consumers along the way."
"In a new wave of rapid media consolidation, large and unaccountable telecommunication corporations are gobbling up local television stations nationwide, according to a new study, devouring the interests of communities and unwitting consumers along the way."
Ted Cruz's Father Suggested His Son Is 'Anointed' to Bring About 'End Time Transfer of Wealth' | Alternet
Ted Cruz's Father Suggested His Son Is 'Anointed' to Bring About 'End Time Transfer of Wealth' | Alternet
"In other words, the "great transfer of wealth" is about more than wishful thinking. It's about an ongoing effort, by leaders and institutions of the evangelical right, to gradually gobble up the secular sphere of government."
"In other words, the "great transfer of wealth" is about more than wishful thinking. It's about an ongoing effort, by leaders and institutions of the evangelical right, to gradually gobble up the secular sphere of government."
Monday, October 21, 2013
A Field Guide to the Koch O’ Nuts Behind the Near Government Default
A Field Guide to the Koch O’ Nuts Behind the Near Government Default
"It’s time for a fact check. The Koch family foundations and the newest known Koch vehicle -- Freedom Partners, which is staffed with by operatives connected to the Kochs and housed in the same building as Charles Koch’s foundation -- have bankrolled practically every group working to create a fake grassroots uprising against the ACA. Many of the groups linked to the Kochs have also pushed an extreme “shut-it-down” position that led the U.S. to the brink of a historic government debt default. "
"It’s time for a fact check. The Koch family foundations and the newest known Koch vehicle -- Freedom Partners, which is staffed with by operatives connected to the Kochs and housed in the same building as Charles Koch’s foundation -- have bankrolled practically every group working to create a fake grassroots uprising against the ACA. Many of the groups linked to the Kochs have also pushed an extreme “shut-it-down” position that led the U.S. to the brink of a historic government debt default. "
Huge GMO News | Common Dreams
Huge GMO News | Common Dreams
"Nobody knows what's going to happen in Washington between now and November 5. But from Mexico, to Hawaii and to the 64 nations that already have GMO labeling, this tide just might be turning."
"Nobody knows what's going to happen in Washington between now and November 5. But from Mexico, to Hawaii and to the 64 nations that already have GMO labeling, this tide just might be turning."
South Dakota Doctors Urge Their Governor To Expand Medicaid Under Obamacare
South Dakota Doctors Urge Their Governor To Expand Medicaid Under Obamacare: If the state agreed to Obamacare's optional Medicaid expansion, its uninsurance rate would be cut in half.
6 Reasons Privatization Often Ends in Disaster | Alternet
6 Reasons Privatization Often Ends in Disaster | Alternet
"But the privatizers keep encroaching on the public sector. Our government reimburses the CEOs of private contractors at a rate approximately double what we pay the President. Overall, we pay the corporate bosses over $7 billion a year.
"But the privatizers keep encroaching on the public sector. Our government reimburses the CEOs of private contractors at a rate approximately double what we pay the President. Overall, we pay the corporate bosses over $7 billion a year.
Many Americans don't realize that the privatization of Social Security and Medicare would transfer much of our money to yet another group of CEOs."
Pope Francis: 'Ideological Christians' Are a 'Serious Illness' | Alternet
Pope Francis: 'Ideological Christians' Are a 'Serious Illness' | Alternet
"Francis said that ideologies are “rigid.” “When a Christian becomes a disciple of the ideology, he has lost the faith: he is no longer a disciple of Jesus, he is a disciple of this attitude of thought,” Francis said, according to Radio Vatican."
"Francis said that ideologies are “rigid.” “When a Christian becomes a disciple of the ideology, he has lost the faith: he is no longer a disciple of Jesus, he is a disciple of this attitude of thought,” Francis said, according to Radio Vatican."
Poll Indicates Dems Could Win 'Sizable Majority' in 2014
Poll Indicates Dems Could Win 'Sizable Majority' in 2014
"A new survey of 25 GOP-held districts shows dwindling favorability for Republican members of the House in the wake of the recent government shutdown."
"A new survey of 25 GOP-held districts shows dwindling favorability for Republican members of the House in the wake of the recent government shutdown."
McDowell County, USA Has Close to Haiti's Life Expectancy: Welcome to Third World America | Alternet
McDowell County, USA Has Close to Haiti's Life Expectancy: Welcome to Third World America | Alternet
"The Affordable Care Act is merely a small step in the direction of universal healthcare. One need only look at the data on life expectancy among Americans to realize how badly health care reform is needed in the United States. People in much of Europe are, on the whole, outliving residents of the U.S., which in some places, is looking more and more like a Third World country when it comes to life expectancy.
"The Affordable Care Act is merely a small step in the direction of universal healthcare. One need only look at the data on life expectancy among Americans to realize how badly health care reform is needed in the United States. People in much of Europe are, on the whole, outliving residents of the U.S., which in some places, is looking more and more like a Third World country when it comes to life expectancy.
There is a considerable amount of data on life expectancy among Americans, much of it disturbing."
Sunday, October 20, 2013
Shutdown Will Continue To Damage Economy Through The Holiday Season, Economists Predict
Shutdown Will Continue To Damage Economy Through The Holiday Season, Economists Predict: Thousands of workers, bracing for the next budget crisis, will likely hold back on Christmas shopping and other economic activity.
I Would Be Dead Without Health Insurance -- GOPers Trying to Kill Obamacare Are Also Killing People | Alternet
I Would Be Dead Without Health Insurance -- GOPers Trying to Kill Obamacare Are Also Killing People | Alternet
"Obamacare requires insurance companies for the first time to cover everyone, regardless of any preexisting conditions. There's no more disqualifying condition than cancer; without Obamacare, I would now almost certainly be uninsurable if someday in the future I try to get insurance on the individual market. And we know what happens to people without health insurance in the United States: they die."
"Obamacare requires insurance companies for the first time to cover everyone, regardless of any preexisting conditions. There's no more disqualifying condition than cancer; without Obamacare, I would now almost certainly be uninsurable if someday in the future I try to get insurance on the individual market. And we know what happens to people without health insurance in the United States: they die."
Saturday, October 19, 2013
Fact-Checking Fox: What Real Journalism Looks Like
Fact-Checking Fox: What Real Journalism Looks Like
"The stubborn need to oppose something even when it goes against their own self-interest is a uniquely conservative and bewildering phenomenon. Fox News' exploitation of their own choices for ratings and demagogue points is predictable and disgusting."
"The stubborn need to oppose something even when it goes against their own self-interest is a uniquely conservative and bewildering phenomenon. Fox News' exploitation of their own choices for ratings and demagogue points is predictable and disgusting."
Billionaire Koch Brothers Spending Millions To Deny Health Coverage To Low-Income Americans
Billionaire Koch Brothers Spending Millions To Deny Health Coverage To Low-Income Americans: Volunteers with the conservative organization are distributing misleading flyers, attending committee hearings, and intimidating constituents.
10 Reasons Why the Tea Party is So Unpopular | Alternet
10 Reasons Why the Tea Party is So Unpopular | Alternet
"Now that the federal government has reopened and its debt limit raised, the Tea Party is more unpopular with Americans than ever—including among moderate Republicans—polls are finding, with analysts asking if the Tea Party is part of the GOP at all."
"Now that the federal government has reopened and its debt limit raised, the Tea Party is more unpopular with Americans than ever—including among moderate Republicans—polls are finding, with analysts asking if the Tea Party is part of the GOP at all."
Friday, October 18, 2013
The Government Shutdown's Incalculable Damage to Scientific Research | Alternet
The Government Shutdown's Incalculable Damage to Scientific Research | Alternet
"So Minnesota Republican Representative Michele Bachmann told the Washington Post, commenting on the shutdown that ground many critical government functions to a halt for over two weeks. "It's exactly what we wanted, and we got it." So, what exactly did Bachmann and her Republican colleagues get out of it? A lot more than they may have bargained for, according to scientists employed by the federal government. It is not just that government researchers were locked out of their labs and offices, but whole programs were wastefully delayed and, in some cases, endangered."
"So Minnesota Republican Representative Michele Bachmann told the Washington Post, commenting on the shutdown that ground many critical government functions to a halt for over two weeks. "It's exactly what we wanted, and we got it." So, what exactly did Bachmann and her Republican colleagues get out of it? A lot more than they may have bargained for, according to scientists employed by the federal government. It is not just that government researchers were locked out of their labs and offices, but whole programs were wastefully delayed and, in some cases, endangered."
Shutdown aftermath: Republicans are left with an unanswered ransom note and lame excuses
www.dailykos.com/story/2013/10/17/1248303/-Shutdown-aftermath-Republicans-are-left-with-an-unanswered-ransom-note-and-lame-excuses
"After Democrats in Congress stepped in on Wednesday night and ended the Republican shutdown—a sixteen day temper tantrum that cost this country $24 billion—Republicans were left with nothing but their unanswered ransom note and a lot of pathetic excuses."
"After Democrats in Congress stepped in on Wednesday night and ended the Republican shutdown—a sixteen day temper tantrum that cost this country $24 billion—Republicans were left with nothing but their unanswered ransom note and a lot of pathetic excuses."
House Republicans Say They Are Punishing Obama By Refusing To Vote on Immigration Reform
www.politicususa.com/2013/10/18/house-republicans-punishing-obama-refusing-vote-immigration-reform.html
"It will come as a shock to many House Republicans to learn that they are being paid by the American people to vote on things. Voting is a part of their job description. When they refuse to vote, they are sending the message that they aren’t interested in doing their jobs.
The real reason why Boehner won’t bring the immigration reform bill to the floor for a vote is that there are enough votes between Democrats and Republicans to pass it. Since it would make the tea party faction angry, Boehner can’t allow the House to properly function."
"It will come as a shock to many House Republicans to learn that they are being paid by the American people to vote on things. Voting is a part of their job description. When they refuse to vote, they are sending the message that they aren’t interested in doing their jobs.
The real reason why Boehner won’t bring the immigration reform bill to the floor for a vote is that there are enough votes between Democrats and Republicans to pass it. Since it would make the tea party faction angry, Boehner can’t allow the House to properly function."
Fox's Obamacare Victims Aren't Victims At All
www.mediamatters.org/blog/2013/10/18/foxs-obamacare-victims-arent-victims-at-all/196498
"none of host Sean Hannity's guests had even attempted to shop on the exchange. When he shopped on the exchange with the information he was given for two of the three couples Hannity hosted, he found that both families could save thousands annually by enrolling in an ACA-compliant policy."
"none of host Sean Hannity's guests had even attempted to shop on the exchange. When he shopped on the exchange with the information he was given for two of the three couples Hannity hosted, he found that both families could save thousands annually by enrolling in an ACA-compliant policy."
Ted Cruz vs. Twitter: Does Obamacare Hurt Americans?
www.motherjones.com/politics/2013/10/obamacare-working-benefits-stories-twitter
"Americans across the country telling tales of how Obamacare has lowered premiums for them or provided better insurance at similar rates."
"Americans across the country telling tales of how Obamacare has lowered premiums for them or provided better insurance at similar rates."
Free Consultations: After Shutdown, Fox Advises GOP On Image Rehabilitation
www.mediamatters.org/blog/2013/10/17/free-consultations-after-shutdown-fox-advises-g/196481
"Fox News offered the Republican Party advice on how they might recover from the GOP-led government shutdown that damaged the images of both Republicans and the tea party and caused at least $24 billion in economic harm."
"Fox News offered the Republican Party advice on how they might recover from the GOP-led government shutdown that damaged the images of both Republicans and the tea party and caused at least $24 billion in economic harm."
Republicans Have Resumed Their Koch Funded Seditious Conspiracy To Destroy Government
www.politicususa.com/2013/10/18/republicans-resumed-koch-funded-seditious-conspiracy-destroy-government.html
"Americans have witnessed Republicans engage in a concerted effort over the past two-and-a-half years to bring the government to its knees because the people elected an African American as President. In Early in 2012 Republicans began warning their members that “armed revolution” would be necessary to impose their will on the people if President Obama won re-election in 2012. Although they have not yet brought out their considerable arsenals, they are rebelling against the Constitutional government and are more than willing to see its demise than give up their coup d’état to rule by extremist minority."
"Americans have witnessed Republicans engage in a concerted effort over the past two-and-a-half years to bring the government to its knees because the people elected an African American as President. In Early in 2012 Republicans began warning their members that “armed revolution” would be necessary to impose their will on the people if President Obama won re-election in 2012. Although they have not yet brought out their considerable arsenals, they are rebelling against the Constitutional government and are more than willing to see its demise than give up their coup d’état to rule by extremist minority."
Ted Cruz Is A Grifter Who Believes In Divine Wealth Transfers
Ted Cruz Is A Grifter Who Believes In Divine Wealth Transfers
"It's all just a big con to pull some money out of your pocket and slip it into theirs. Of course Ted Cruz will never stop. The combination of greed, hubris and his own narcissism make him King Grifter, but little else."
"It's all just a big con to pull some money out of your pocket and slip it into theirs. Of course Ted Cruz will never stop. The combination of greed, hubris and his own narcissism make him King Grifter, but little else."
Republicans Have Done Real Damage to the Economy
Republicans Have Done Real Damage to the Economy
"Republicans have been obstructing ... everything. The ongoing economic damage has been just incredible but because it gradually worsens things the public is not as aware as they should be. There are two obstructions taking place. In the Senate Republicans have been filibustering every bill, every nominee ... everything. In the House the "Hastert Rule" prevents the majority of the Congress from being able to vote. By preventing bills from coming up for a vote if they might be passed by a majority that includes Democrats and some "RINO" Republicans, anything that could help the country and economy is blocked."
"Republicans have been obstructing ... everything. The ongoing economic damage has been just incredible but because it gradually worsens things the public is not as aware as they should be. There are two obstructions taking place. In the Senate Republicans have been filibustering every bill, every nominee ... everything. In the House the "Hastert Rule" prevents the majority of the Congress from being able to vote. By preventing bills from coming up for a vote if they might be passed by a majority that includes Democrats and some "RINO" Republicans, anything that could help the country and economy is blocked."
Ted Cruz Single-Handedly Blocks FCC Nominee Over Concerns That He’ll Make Elections More Transparent
Ted Cruz Single-Handedly Blocks FCC Nominee Over Concerns That He’ll Make Elections More Transparent:
"Cruz’s stated reason for blocking Wheeler is that he’s concerned the FCC nominee may try to make spending by corporations and millionaire donors seeking to influence elections more transparent."
"Cruz’s stated reason for blocking Wheeler is that he’s concerned the FCC nominee may try to make spending by corporations and millionaire donors seeking to influence elections more transparent."
Poll: Tea Party Less Popular Than Ever
Poll: Tea Party Less Popular Than Ever
"Negative views of the tea party have nearly doubled over the past two years, making the conservative movement more unpopular than ever"
"Negative views of the tea party have nearly doubled over the past two years, making the conservative movement more unpopular than ever"
The Abject Failure of Reaganomics | Common Dreams
The Abject Failure of Reaganomics | Common Dreams
"House Republicans got next to nothing from their extortion strategy of taking the government and the economy hostage, but they are sure to continue obstructing programs that could create jobs and start rebuilding the middle class. What they won’t recognize is the abject failure of Reaganomics"
"House Republicans got next to nothing from their extortion strategy of taking the government and the economy hostage, but they are sure to continue obstructing programs that could create jobs and start rebuilding the middle class. What they won’t recognize is the abject failure of Reaganomics"
Thursday, October 17, 2013
Beer Offensive: The Koch Brothers Try to Bribe College Students Not to Sign Up for Obamacare with Brewskies | Alternet
Beer Offensive: The Koch Brothers Try to Bribe College Students Not to Sign Up for Obamacare with Brewskies | Alternet
"What's a family values conservative to do when every effort to protect millions of Americans from the scourge of affordable healthcare fails?
"What's a family values conservative to do when every effort to protect millions of Americans from the scourge of affordable healthcare fails?
Break out the beer, of course. The latest campaign to kill off Obamacare in its infancy is now playing out on college campuses where a conservative group known as Generation Opportunity (GO), who are funded in part by the billionaire Koch brothers, is using the lure of free beer and "opt out" beer koozies to persuade young students not to buy health insurance – or, at least, not to buy it from the Obamacare exchanges."
Houston Paper Revokes Cruz Endorsement
Houston Paper Revokes Cruz Endorsement
"Ted Cruz’s hometown paper, the Houston Chronicle, took back their endorsement of him on Wednesday—and even claimed they only endorsed him with “many reservations” in the first place."
"Ted Cruz’s hometown paper, the Houston Chronicle, took back their endorsement of him on Wednesday—and even claimed they only endorsed him with “many reservations” in the first place."
Thanks To Obamacare, Oregon Cut Its Unsinsured Population By 10 Percent Over The Past Two Weeks
Thanks To Obamacare, Oregon Cut Its Unsinsured Population By 10 Percent Over The Past Two Weeks: 56,000 new people have signed up for Oregon's Medicaid program so far this month. Most of them wouldn't be eligible for coverage without Obamacare.
PERRspectives: Benedict Boehner
PERRspectives: Benedict Boehner
"But the entire crisis could have been avoided if John Boehner had simply stood up to his own party, even at the cost of his speakership. Instead, Boehner came within hours of single-handedly dooming the U.S. economy--and tens of millions of Americans--by letting the default he decried nearly come to pass. In that case, John Boehner's name would have lived in infamy alongside Benedict Arnold, John Wilkes Booth, Lee Harvey Oswald and other legendary American villains who betrayed their nation and put its future at risk."
"But the entire crisis could have been avoided if John Boehner had simply stood up to his own party, even at the cost of his speakership. Instead, Boehner came within hours of single-handedly dooming the U.S. economy--and tens of millions of Americans--by letting the default he decried nearly come to pass. In that case, John Boehner's name would have lived in infamy alongside Benedict Arnold, John Wilkes Booth, Lee Harvey Oswald and other legendary American villains who betrayed their nation and put its future at risk."
The Air We Breathe Definitively and Scientifically Linked to Cancer | Alternet
The Air We Breathe Definitively and Scientifically Linked to Cancer | Alternet
"And asthma rates have doubled in last 30 years."
"And asthma rates have doubled in last 30 years."
The Tea Party and the Economy: It's Like Putting an Arsonist in Charge of the Fire Department
The Tea Party and the Economy: It's Like Putting an Arsonist in Charge of the Fire Department
"The uncertainty of never knowing when an economic hostage taker is going to hold a gun to the head of the United States takes its toll."
"The uncertainty of never knowing when an economic hostage taker is going to hold a gun to the head of the United States takes its toll."
Republicans Owe Us 24 Billion Dollars Plus for the Government Shutdown
www.politicususa.com/2013/10/17/republicans-owe-24-billion-dollars-government-shutdown.html
"The shutdown cost us at least $24 billion dollars. The shutdown that got Republicans nothing but funding at sequester levels that they claimed wasn’t theirs and blamed Obama for, but now claim as a victory – that sequester."
"The shutdown cost us at least $24 billion dollars. The shutdown that got Republicans nothing but funding at sequester levels that they claimed wasn’t theirs and blamed Obama for, but now claim as a victory – that sequester."
Obama On Shutdown: There Are No Winners Here
Visit NBCNews.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy
The Shutdown May Be Over, But It’s Still Hurting Public Health
The Shutdown May Be Over, But It’s Still Hurting Public Health:
"The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) will need to start up their influenza monitoring program again, and they’ll need to scramble to make up for lost time as flu season intensifies. The CDC is also behind when it comes to monitoring and analyzing a recent outbreak of salmonella that’s started to display signs of antibiotic resistance."
"The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) will need to start up their influenza monitoring program again, and they’ll need to scramble to make up for lost time as flu season intensifies. The CDC is also behind when it comes to monitoring and analyzing a recent outbreak of salmonella that’s started to display signs of antibiotic resistance."
Ted Cruz, Mike Lee and House Republicans Are Plotting Another Government Shutdown
www.politicususa.com/2013/10/17/ted-cruz-mike-lee-house-republicans-plotting-goverment-shutdown.html
"Sens. Ted Cruz, Mike Lee, and House Republicans are already plotting another government shutdown/default crisis in an attempt to stop the ACA.
As soon as the bill was passed to reopen the government, the same Republican extremists who carried out the first government shutdown were already plotting round two. Rep. John Fleming (R-LA) told The New York Times, “I’ll vote against it, but that will get us into Round 2. See, we’re going to start this all over again"."
"Sens. Ted Cruz, Mike Lee, and House Republicans are already plotting another government shutdown/default crisis in an attempt to stop the ACA.
As soon as the bill was passed to reopen the government, the same Republican extremists who carried out the first government shutdown were already plotting round two. Rep. John Fleming (R-LA) told The New York Times, “I’ll vote against it, but that will get us into Round 2. See, we’re going to start this all over again"."
GOP congressman smacks down Tea Party
www.salon.com/2013/10/16/gop_congressman_smacks_down_tea_party/
"Louisiana Republican Charles Boustany expressed his great frustration with the “20-30″ members of Congress who make up the Tea Party wing, accusing them of caring more about appearances and ideological purity than actually governing."
"Louisiana Republican Charles Boustany expressed his great frustration with the “20-30″ members of Congress who make up the Tea Party wing, accusing them of caring more about appearances and ideological purity than actually governing."
Orrin Hatch Slams Heritage: ‘It’s In Danger Of Losing Its Clout And Its Power’
Orrin Hatch Slams Heritage: ‘It’s In Danger Of Losing Its Clout And Its Power’: "Is Heritage going to go so political that it really doesn't amount to anything anymore?" Hatch asked.
What You Can Get For The Price Of A Shutdown
What You Can Get For The Price Of A Shutdown: The shutdown may be over, but the cost can't be erased.
How The Texas GOP Is Waging A Hidden War On Women Voters
How The Texas GOP Is Waging A Hidden War On Women Voters: If you're a married woman in Texas, you may not be able to vote.
A Simple Reform Could Save America From Wall Street and Boost the Economy: What’s Washington Waiting For? | Alternet
A Simple Reform Could Save America From Wall Street and Boost the Economy: What’s Washington Waiting For? | Alternet
"Financiers have been getting a free ride for too long. Let's make them pay their share instead of robbing seniors."
"Financiers have been getting a free ride for too long. Let's make them pay their share instead of robbing seniors."
Health Care Hypocrisy | Common Dreams
Health Care Hypocrisy | Common Dreams
"While going to extremes to keep millions of Americans from getting vitally needed health coverage, Cruz repeatedly refused to answer whether taxpayers covered his health care. Finally, he piously responded that he was eligible for taxpayer coverage, but had nobly declined.
Such slapstick! It turns out that Ted was fibbing, for he’s covered by his wife’s policy. As a millionaire top executive at Goldman Sachs, she and her family are given gold-plated Cadillac coverage by the Wall Street giant. Goldman pays some $40,000 a year for her and Ted’s policy — a benefit-cost that the firm passes on to us taxpayers by deducting it from its corporate tax bill. Hilarious, huh?"
"While going to extremes to keep millions of Americans from getting vitally needed health coverage, Cruz repeatedly refused to answer whether taxpayers covered his health care. Finally, he piously responded that he was eligible for taxpayer coverage, but had nobly declined.
Such slapstick! It turns out that Ted was fibbing, for he’s covered by his wife’s policy. As a millionaire top executive at Goldman Sachs, she and her family are given gold-plated Cadillac coverage by the Wall Street giant. Goldman pays some $40,000 a year for her and Ted’s policy — a benefit-cost that the firm passes on to us taxpayers by deducting it from its corporate tax bill. Hilarious, huh?"
Backfire! GOP Hostage-Taking Boosts Obamacare's Popularity | Alternet
Backfire! GOP Hostage-Taking Boosts Obamacare's Popularity | Alternet
'The GOP-led federal government shutdown over Obamacare has dramatically backfired on Republicans. Nearly two-thirds of active voters, the largest share yet, support the health insurance reform law and want it to work, new nationwide polling has found."
'The GOP-led federal government shutdown over Obamacare has dramatically backfired on Republicans. Nearly two-thirds of active voters, the largest share yet, support the health insurance reform law and want it to work, new nationwide polling has found."
Tea Party's Popularity Reaches New Low, Poll Finds
www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/10/16/tea-party-poll_n_4110559.html
"Unfavorable views of the tea party have nearly doubled over the past two years, making the conservative movement more unpopular than ever, a Pew Research survey released Wednesday finds."
"Unfavorable views of the tea party have nearly doubled over the past two years, making the conservative movement more unpopular than ever, a Pew Research survey released Wednesday finds."
Wednesday, October 16, 2013
Here Lies the Tea Party, 2009 - 2013
Here Lies the Tea Party, 2009 - 2013
"This why the John Birch Society ran into a wall: the American people did not share its racist, anti-government values. The Tea Party has run into that wall."
"This why the John Birch Society ran into a wall: the American people did not share its racist, anti-government values. The Tea Party has run into that wall."
Historian: Tea Party Rise Tied to 'Continuing Abandonment' Of Responsibility By Media
Historian: Tea Party Rise Tied to 'Continuing Abandonment' Of Responsibility By Media
"A press devoted to searching for and reporting the truth, wherever it might lead, would have kept the public better informed of the basic details of the government shutdown and debt-ceiling showdowns. It also would have reported seriously the hard truths of the Tea Party "insurgency," including how it was largely created and has since been bankrolled by oil-and-gas moguls like David and Charles Koch of Koch Industries, and by a panoply of richly endowed right-wing pressure groups like Dick Armey's FreedomWorks and Jim DeMint's Heritage Foundation. It also would have reported on the basic reason for the hard right's growing domination of the Republican Party, which has been the decay of the party at every level, including what passes for its party leadership"
"A press devoted to searching for and reporting the truth, wherever it might lead, would have kept the public better informed of the basic details of the government shutdown and debt-ceiling showdowns. It also would have reported seriously the hard truths of the Tea Party "insurgency," including how it was largely created and has since been bankrolled by oil-and-gas moguls like David and Charles Koch of Koch Industries, and by a panoply of richly endowed right-wing pressure groups like Dick Armey's FreedomWorks and Jim DeMint's Heritage Foundation. It also would have reported on the basic reason for the hard right's growing domination of the Republican Party, which has been the decay of the party at every level, including what passes for its party leadership"
Robertson: Tea Party Politicians Need To 'Grow Up' | Right Wing Watch
Robertson: Tea Party Politicians Need To 'Grow Up' | Right Wing Watch
"When Pat Robertson thinks you’ve moved too far to the right, you know you’re in trouble."
"When Pat Robertson thinks you’ve moved too far to the right, you know you’re in trouble."
Joe Lhota: 'Don't Lump Me In With National Republicans'
Joe Lhota: 'Don't Lump Me In With National Republicans'
It's not easy running for mayor of New York City with the republican anvil hanging around your neck
It's not easy running for mayor of New York City with the republican anvil hanging around your neck
The Government Shutdown Has Cost The Economy $24 Billion
The Government Shutdown Has Cost The Economy $24 Billion:
"Standard & Poor’s calculates that the shutdown that has so far lasted just over two weeks has taken $24 billion out of the economy, shaving at least 0.6 percent off of GDP in the fourth quarter."
"Standard & Poor’s calculates that the shutdown that has so far lasted just over two weeks has taken $24 billion out of the economy, shaving at least 0.6 percent off of GDP in the fourth quarter."
Congressman Says GOP Can’t Pass Immigration Reform Because Obama Will Destroy Them
Congressman Says GOP Can’t Pass Immigration Reform Because Obama Will Destroy Them: After the shutdown and debt ceiling fights, Rep. Raul Labrador said it would be a "very big mistake" for House Republicans to address immigration.
Misunderestimating Who They Are: They Like To Destroy Things
Misunderestimating Who They Are: They Like To Destroy Things
"If you listen to right-wing radio, watch FOX News and read their online media and take it seriously (because they do) then you would know that many on the right don’t want to live in a country that has Social Security, Medicare, Obamacare, the minimum wage, Food Stamps, immigration, public schools, infant nutrition programs and the rest of the things government does to make our lives better. Andthey don't want anyone else to live in a country that has those things, either.
"If you listen to right-wing radio, watch FOX News and read their online media and take it seriously (because they do) then you would know that many on the right don’t want to live in a country that has Social Security, Medicare, Obamacare, the minimum wage, Food Stamps, immigration, public schools, infant nutrition programs and the rest of the things government does to make our lives better. Andthey don't want anyone else to live in a country that has those things, either.
They are willing to destroy the village to keep the village from having those things. If you don't "get that" before entering into negotiations, you're at risk of making a terrible mistake -- like the sequester."
Paul Ryan's Peddling a 'Shock Doctrine' Cure | Common Dreams
Paul Ryan's Peddling a 'Shock Doctrine' Cure | Common Dreams
"If you are looking for certainties in American politics, count on this one: If a crisis of governing develops, the advocates for cutting Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid will arrive with a plan to resolve the standoff by balancing budgets on the backs of America’s most vulnerable citizens.
Cue Paul Ryan.
The House Budget Committee chairman, a Republican from Janesville, has for the better part of a decade been the most determined advocate on Capitol Hill for the Wall Street agenda that says earned-benefit programs should be reshaped as investment vehicles and voucher schemes that will benefit brokers and the health insurance industry."
"If you are looking for certainties in American politics, count on this one: If a crisis of governing develops, the advocates for cutting Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid will arrive with a plan to resolve the standoff by balancing budgets on the backs of America’s most vulnerable citizens.
Cue Paul Ryan.
The House Budget Committee chairman, a Republican from Janesville, has for the better part of a decade been the most determined advocate on Capitol Hill for the Wall Street agenda that says earned-benefit programs should be reshaped as investment vehicles and voucher schemes that will benefit brokers and the health insurance industry."
STUDY: Steadfast GOP Refusal To Expand Medicaid Leaves 5 Million Poor Americans Without Health Care
STUDY: Steadfast GOP Refusal To Expand Medicaid Leaves 5 Million Poor Americans Without Health Care: Without Medicaid expansion, many Americans earning less than $11,500 per year won't get any assistance to purchase health care.
Ted Cruz Admits Budget Standoff Was All About Fundraising
Ted Cruz Admits Budget Standoff Was All About Fundraising: Asked what he has gained from holding-up a deal for weeks, Cruz pointed to a political petition he has been promoting for days.
House Republican Wingnuts Still Stuck on Stupid
House Republican Wingnuts Still Stuck on Stupid
"These people are not fit for governing and should never, ever be allowed again to threaten the full faith and credit of the United States government and the possibility of sending us into another recession or a depression."
"These people are not fit for governing and should never, ever be allowed again to threaten the full faith and credit of the United States government and the possibility of sending us into another recession or a depression."
Guilty of Sedition? Tea Party Threatens America’s Economic and Political Systems | Alternet
Guilty of Sedition? Tea Party Threatens America’s Economic and Political Systems | Alternet
"The behavior of the GOP’s extremist faction is looking increasingly outlandish and unprecedented, like the machinations of some lunatic fringe in a country far, far away. But they're right here. They want to destroy the U.S. government and they will plainly thwart laws they don’t like in the name of foolhardy austerity and unregulated markets. Hindering a law by using threats or force, by the way, is sedition, and some have argued that the Tea Party members are guilty of this crime."
"The behavior of the GOP’s extremist faction is looking increasingly outlandish and unprecedented, like the machinations of some lunatic fringe in a country far, far away. But they're right here. They want to destroy the U.S. government and they will plainly thwart laws they don’t like in the name of foolhardy austerity and unregulated markets. Hindering a law by using threats or force, by the way, is sedition, and some have argued that the Tea Party members are guilty of this crime."
What Obamacare Means to Me: The Difference Between Bankruptcy and Having a Life Again | Alternet
What Obamacare Means to Me: The Difference Between Bankruptcy and Having a Life Again | Alternet
"We lived under the illusion that we were adequately covered by our health insurance plan ... until my wife got sick."
"We lived under the illusion that we were adequately covered by our health insurance plan ... until my wife got sick."
We Are Witnessing the Emergence of a Political Process That Allows Right-Wing Billionaires the Power to Turn off Govt. Like a Switch | Alternet
We Are Witnessing the Emergence of a Political Process That Allows Right-Wing Billionaires the Power to Turn off Govt. Like a Switch | Alternet
"Charles and David Koch and other right-wing billionaires and near-billionaires are blind with anger after wasting millions of dollars on Mitt Romney, Karl Rove and the Republican Party in a failed attempt to defeat Barack Obama, the Democrats and health-care reform. These were the guys who smirked knowingly when Romney sneered at “the 47 percent” of Americans who receive some government help; they got snappish when Obama called them “fat cats”; they demanded the honorific title of “job creators"."
"Charles and David Koch and other right-wing billionaires and near-billionaires are blind with anger after wasting millions of dollars on Mitt Romney, Karl Rove and the Republican Party in a failed attempt to defeat Barack Obama, the Democrats and health-care reform. These were the guys who smirked knowingly when Romney sneered at “the 47 percent” of Americans who receive some government help; they got snappish when Obama called them “fat cats”; they demanded the honorific title of “job creators"."
Tuesday, October 15, 2013
The National Memo » Poll: Disapproval Of Republicans Hits New High
The National Memo » Poll: Disapproval Of Republicans Hits New High
"Even among Republicans, 49 percent disapprove of their own party’s actions.
The survey is just the latest in a series of polls showing that the prolonged government shutdown and debt ceiling debate are taking a serious toll on the Republican Party’s brand."
"Even among Republicans, 49 percent disapprove of their own party’s actions.
The survey is just the latest in a series of polls showing that the prolonged government shutdown and debt ceiling debate are taking a serious toll on the Republican Party’s brand."
5 Charts Show the U.S. Has No Debt Crisis
5 Charts Show the U.S. Has No Debt Crisis
"The drastic reductions in state and local government spending fueled not just the direct loss of 737,000 public sector jobs by this summer, but constituted a major drag on the private sector economy as well. All told, the Economic Policy Institute estimates, austerity policies cost the American people 3 million jobs.
All of which is why the GOP must end the its hostage-taking of the federal government and the American economy once and for all. The numbers are clear. The U.S. does not have a debt crisis, but a jobs crisis. We've already cut enough spending for the time being. That's why Republicans should end their government shutdown"
"The drastic reductions in state and local government spending fueled not just the direct loss of 737,000 public sector jobs by this summer, but constituted a major drag on the private sector economy as well. All told, the Economic Policy Institute estimates, austerity policies cost the American people 3 million jobs.
All of which is why the GOP must end the its hostage-taking of the federal government and the American economy once and for all. The numbers are clear. The U.S. does not have a debt crisis, but a jobs crisis. We've already cut enough spending for the time being. That's why Republicans should end their government shutdown"
Rep. Slaughter Grills GOP Official Over Rule Change 'Atrocity' Rigging Govt. Shutdown
Rep. Slaughter Grills GOP Official Over Rule Change 'Atrocity' Rigging Govt. Shutdown
"As it turned out, Slaughter's instincts were correct because Republicans shut down the government the next day. And 15 days later, the government remained shut down and the Senate bill had still not been brought up for a vote in the House."
"As it turned out, Slaughter's instincts were correct because Republicans shut down the government the next day. And 15 days later, the government remained shut down and the Senate bill had still not been brought up for a vote in the House."
That awkward moment a House Republican explains why they rigged the rules to keep the govt shut down
www.freakoutnation.com/2013/10/14/that-awkward-moment-a-house-republican-explains-why-they-rigged-the-rules-to-keep-the-govt-shut-down/
"Republican House Rules Committee Chairman Pete Sessions was busted changing the rules of the House so that only Eric Cantor or a Republican designated by him, can bring the Senate bill to the House floor. Republicans already have control of the House, but this dirty little trick makes it impossible for any Democrat or moderate Republican have a say-so in the process of opening our government."
"Republican House Rules Committee Chairman Pete Sessions was busted changing the rules of the House so that only Eric Cantor or a Republican designated by him, can bring the Senate bill to the House floor. Republicans already have control of the House, but this dirty little trick makes it impossible for any Democrat or moderate Republican have a say-so in the process of opening our government."
Shutdown's Radical Birther Streak Cannot Be Ignored
www.mediamatters.org/blog/2013/10/15/shutdowns-radical-birther-streak-cannot-be-igno/196428
"If anyone's surprised that a proud and unapologetic birther (in 2013!) was front-and-center at a right-wing anti-Obama rally this week, or that the birther charade plays a central role in government shutdown activism, then they haven't being paying close enough attention to the conservative movement in America."
"If anyone's surprised that a proud and unapologetic birther (in 2013!) was front-and-center at a right-wing anti-Obama rally this week, or that the birther charade plays a central role in government shutdown activism, then they haven't being paying close enough attention to the conservative movement in America."
Tea Party Terrorist Republicans Are on an Economic Suicide Mission to Harm Obama
www.politicususa.com/2013/10/15/tea-party-terrorist-republicans-economic-suicide-mission-harm-obama.html
"Each of the GOP’s economic disasters has cost the nation dearly including the 2007-08 crash that killed tens-of-millions of jobs and decimated the world’s economy, and in 2011 they cost America a million jobs, nearly $19 billion in interest fees, and a sequester slated to kill over a million jobs within the next year. There is no telling what the current crisis will cost the nation or how devastating the next planned crisis will be will be to the economy, but if Republicans prevail there is little doubt the cost will be painful because the GOP is highly motivated to keep the economy in dire straits."
"Each of the GOP’s economic disasters has cost the nation dearly including the 2007-08 crash that killed tens-of-millions of jobs and decimated the world’s economy, and in 2011 they cost America a million jobs, nearly $19 billion in interest fees, and a sequester slated to kill over a million jobs within the next year. There is no telling what the current crisis will cost the nation or how devastating the next planned crisis will be will be to the economy, but if Republicans prevail there is little doubt the cost will be painful because the GOP is highly motivated to keep the economy in dire straits."
Deficits are Rapidly Shrinking, Spending is Flat under Obama
Deficits are Rapidly Shrinking, Spending is Flat under Obama
"Simply put, there is no crisis to justify the additional spending cuts Republicans are now trying to extort. As it turns out, federal spending has hardly budged while deficits have plummeted since Barack Obama first took the oath of office in January 2009."
"Simply put, there is no crisis to justify the additional spending cuts Republicans are now trying to extort. As it turns out, federal spending has hardly budged while deficits have plummeted since Barack Obama first took the oath of office in January 2009."
After Sparking Outrage In Detroit, Koch Brothers’ Tar Sands Waste Now Piling Up In Chicago
After Sparking Outrage In Detroit, Koch Brothers’ Tar Sands Waste Now Piling Up In Chicago: Petroleum coke, a byproduct of tar sands refining, is building up along Chicago's Calumet River and alarming residents.
3 Ways Regular Americans Will Be Hurt by a Debt Ceiling Default | Alternet
3 Ways Regular Americans Will Be Hurt by a Debt Ceiling Default | Alternet
"From credit cards to mortgages, pain will be felt across the country."
"From credit cards to mortgages, pain will be felt across the country."
How Republicans Came To Own Sequestration’s Devastating Cuts As A Victory
How Republicans Came To Own Sequestration’s Devastating Cuts As A Victory: Republicans originally pinned the damage from sequestration on President Obama, but now embrace the cuts as a win.
Low Wages Cost Taxpayers A Quarter-Trillion Dollars Every Year
Low Wages Cost Taxpayers A Quarter-Trillion Dollars Every Year: Half of fast food workers are on public assistance programs that spend $243 billion each year on the working poor.
Scott Walker Creates Phantom Jobs To Boost Aides’ Pay
Scott Walker Creates Phantom Jobs To Boost Aides’ Pay: Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker (R) has so far fallen well short on his promise of 250,000 new jobs by 2015.
How The Tea Party Is Draining The GOP
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