www.forwardprogressives.com/republicans-block-bill-expand-healthcare-education-veterans/
Republicans frequently support sending our troops off to war and often oppose funding for programs which helps our troops when they’re not deployed to war. To say Republicans “support our troops” is a blatant slap to the face of every man and woman who has served our country. Hell, even their push to cut SNAP benefits impacted millions of families of those serving in our military. Granted, the Republican party does overwhelmingly support massive defense spending, but that’s not the same thing."
Friday, February 28, 2014
Alison Lundergan Grimes Shames Mitch McConnell Over His Vote Against Veterans
www.politicususa.com/2014/02/28/alison-lundergan-grimes-shames-mitch-mcconnell.html
"Since there are nearly 340,000 veterans in Kentucky, Democratic candidate for U.S. Senate Alison Lundergan Grimes called out her opponent, Republican Mitch McConnell, for his vote to kill the veterans benefits bill with a cowardly procedural vote."
"Since there are nearly 340,000 veterans in Kentucky, Democratic candidate for U.S. Senate Alison Lundergan Grimes called out her opponent, Republican Mitch McConnell, for his vote to kill the veterans benefits bill with a cowardly procedural vote."
Idaho's 'Ag-Gag' Bill Signed Into Law | Common Dreams
Idaho's 'Ag-Gag' Bill Signed Into Law | Common Dreams
"New law will allow "animal abuse, environmental violations, and food contamination to flourish undetected, unchallenged, and unaddressed"."
"New law will allow "animal abuse, environmental violations, and food contamination to flourish undetected, unchallenged, and unaddressed"."
Safety Net Saved His Drunken Ass, But Rep. Josh Miller Opposes Medicaid For Everyone Else
Safety Net Saved His Drunken Ass, But Rep. Josh Miller Opposes Medicaid For Everyone Else
"If he's so into being a Republican, why didn't he refuse the government healthcare -- since he had no insurance of his own. If the government hadn't come to his rescue, I imagine he wouldn't have any kind of a life right now, but I guess he always knew how very exceptional he was."
"If he's so into being a Republican, why didn't he refuse the government healthcare -- since he had no insurance of his own. If the government hadn't come to his rescue, I imagine he wouldn't have any kind of a life right now, but I guess he always knew how very exceptional he was."
A scam all along: Turns out GOP’s “tax the rich” plan is full of it
A scam all along: Turns out GOP’s “tax the rich” plan is full of it
"Republicans still are obsessed with taxing the poor to feed the rich -- they're just getting better at hiding it"
"Republicans still are obsessed with taxing the poor to feed the rich -- they're just getting better at hiding it"
'Traffic is a nightmare': Bridge scandal audio tapes reveal growing gridlock in Fort Lee
'Traffic is a nightmare': Bridge scandal audio tapes reveal growing gridlock in Fort Lee
"Newly released 911 and police radio tapes reveal that on the first morning of the controversial George Washington Bridge lane closures last year, officers and emergency responders in Fort Lee were grappling with city-wide traffic gridlock."
"Newly released 911 and police radio tapes reveal that on the first morning of the controversial George Washington Bridge lane closures last year, officers and emergency responders in Fort Lee were grappling with city-wide traffic gridlock."
An Upcoming Supreme Court Case Could Impose Arizona’s Anti-Gay Bill On The Entire Country
www.thinkprogress.org/justice/2014/02/28/3347081/upcoming-supreme-court-case-impose-arizonas-anti-gay-entire-country/
"Arizona Gov. Jan Brewer (R) may have vetoed SB 1062, the legislation Arizona lawmakers passed in the hopes that it would enable business owners to discriminate against gay people, but the fight over whether business owners have a legal right to discriminate is far from over. To the contrary, the Supreme Court could give anti-gay businesses sweeping new authority to discriminate in a pair of cases being argued next month. And, unlike the Arizona bill, a Supreme Court decision cannot simply be vetoed to prevent it from working a great deal of mischief."
"Arizona Gov. Jan Brewer (R) may have vetoed SB 1062, the legislation Arizona lawmakers passed in the hopes that it would enable business owners to discriminate against gay people, but the fight over whether business owners have a legal right to discriminate is far from over. To the contrary, the Supreme Court could give anti-gay businesses sweeping new authority to discriminate in a pair of cases being argued next month. And, unlike the Arizona bill, a Supreme Court decision cannot simply be vetoed to prevent it from working a great deal of mischief."
Report: Navy Knew USS Ronald Reagan Was Seriously Contaminated By Fukushima
Report: Navy Knew USS Ronald Reagan Was Seriously Contaminated By Fukushima
"The revelations cast new light on the $1 billion lawsuit filed by the sailors against Tokyo Electric Power."
"The revelations cast new light on the $1 billion lawsuit filed by the sailors against Tokyo Electric Power."
From "Subhuman Mongrel" To "Jim Crow" Laws: Conservatives Can't Stop Fighting Lost Cultural Battles
www.mediamatters.org/blog/2014/02/28/from-subhuman-mongrel-to-jim-crow-laws-conserva/198274
"No matter how many times the right-wing launches campaigns to portray Obama as an un-American traitorous foe, and no matter how many times they push to depict gays and lesbians as unworthy of American freedoms and protections, those culture wars and going to lose every time. Voters have broadcast that message for years now.
Yet somewhere right now right-wing activists, inspired by their far-right pundits, are busily plotting their next (and doomed) cultural war offensive."
"No matter how many times the right-wing launches campaigns to portray Obama as an un-American traitorous foe, and no matter how many times they push to depict gays and lesbians as unworthy of American freedoms and protections, those culture wars and going to lose every time. Voters have broadcast that message for years now.
Yet somewhere right now right-wing activists, inspired by their far-right pundits, are busily plotting their next (and doomed) cultural war offensive."
This Pregnant Woman Has Her Job Back Thanks To A New Anti-Discrimination Law
www.thinkprogress.org/economy/2014/02/27/3342141/pregnant-worker-york-city-reinstated/
"New York City isn’t the only place that has taken steps to remedy this situation. New Jersey also passed a Pregnant Workers Fairness Act, and West Virginia is currently considering one. The same idea has been proposed multiple times at the federal level to make sure all pregnant workers get better treatment, but it hasn’t even gotten a hearing."
"New York City isn’t the only place that has taken steps to remedy this situation. New Jersey also passed a Pregnant Workers Fairness Act, and West Virginia is currently considering one. The same idea has been proposed multiple times at the federal level to make sure all pregnant workers get better treatment, but it hasn’t even gotten a hearing."
Wendy Davis Obliterates Ted Nugent and Greg Abbott With Blistering New Ad
www.politicususa.com/2014/02/27/wendy-davis-obliterates-ted-nugent-greg-abbott-blistering-ad.html
"Do the women and men of Texas think it is representative of their values to have the Republican candidate for governor getting cozy with a sexual predator? If Greg Abbott has no qualms about buddying up with Ted Nugent, he’ll also won’t hesitate to accelerate the extremist anti-women agenda in the state of Texas."
"Do the women and men of Texas think it is representative of their values to have the Republican candidate for governor getting cozy with a sexual predator? If Greg Abbott has no qualms about buddying up with Ted Nugent, he’ll also won’t hesitate to accelerate the extremist anti-women agenda in the state of Texas."
JPMorgan Bets on Death As Wall Street Suicides Jump Up
JPMorgan Bets on Death As Wall Street Suicides Jump Up
"In the vernacular, what JPMorgan is doing is engaging in the purchase of what has come to be known as "dead peasant" insurance policies on employees. The pejorative nickname, according to a website focusing on the practice, had its origins in a lawsuit in which a major corporation indicated that it regarded deceased employees as dead peasants"
"In the vernacular, what JPMorgan is doing is engaging in the purchase of what has come to be known as "dead peasant" insurance policies on employees. The pejorative nickname, according to a website focusing on the practice, had its origins in a lawsuit in which a major corporation indicated that it regarded deceased employees as dead peasants"
For the Climate, For Clean Energy and Healthy Communities: We March | Common Dreams
For the Climate, For Clean Energy and Healthy Communities: We March | Common Dreams
"A recent report funded by the Central Intelligence Agency says the climate extremes we’re now seeing are early warnings of more disasters to come.“Unexpected changes in regional weather are likely to define the new climate normal,” says Michael McElroy, Gilbert Butler Professor of Environmental Studies at Harvard University.
The vast majority of scientific academies agree that the burning of fossil fuels is contributing to more intense heat waves, extreme weather, rising of sea levels, ocean acidification, and the melting of the glaciers. No wonder Secretary of State John Kerry’s finally admitted recently to students and civic leaders in Jakarta: "Climate change is the world's largest weapon of mass destruction"."
"A recent report funded by the Central Intelligence Agency says the climate extremes we’re now seeing are early warnings of more disasters to come.“Unexpected changes in regional weather are likely to define the new climate normal,” says Michael McElroy, Gilbert Butler Professor of Environmental Studies at Harvard University.
The vast majority of scientific academies agree that the burning of fossil fuels is contributing to more intense heat waves, extreme weather, rising of sea levels, ocean acidification, and the melting of the glaciers. No wonder Secretary of State John Kerry’s finally admitted recently to students and civic leaders in Jakarta: "Climate change is the world's largest weapon of mass destruction"."
In Face of Radiation Leak, Is There a Plan B for Nuclear Waste Dumping? | Common Dreams
In Face of Radiation Leak, Is There a Plan B for Nuclear Waste Dumping? | Common Dreams
"A radioactive leak from a New Mexico underground nuclear dump that was championed as a safe long-term repository calls into question the federal government's overall approach to disposing of dangerous waste from nuclear weapons production, experts warn."
"A radioactive leak from a New Mexico underground nuclear dump that was championed as a safe long-term repository calls into question the federal government's overall approach to disposing of dangerous waste from nuclear weapons production, experts warn."
New Climate Change Warning: So Simple A Teabagger Can Understand It (No Promises)
New Climate Change Warning: So Simple A Teabagger Can Understand It (No Promises)
"Scientific papers tend to be written for other scientists and therefore are very difficult for non-scientists to understand. Thankfully, a more comprehensive paper has been released jointly by the US National Academy of Sciences and the U.K. Royal Society."
"Scientific papers tend to be written for other scientists and therefore are very difficult for non-scientists to understand. Thankfully, a more comprehensive paper has been released jointly by the US National Academy of Sciences and the U.K. Royal Society."
Senate Republicans Betray U.S. Vets By Blocking Veterans Benefits Bill
www.politicususa.com/2014/02/27/senate-republicans-betray-u-s-vets-blocking-veterans-benefits-bill.html
"The only message that can be taken away from today’s vote is that Senate Republicans think it is more important to deny President Obama a “win” than it is to help our nation’s veterans. The bill contained provisions that would restore the COLA for vets, and protect them from losing their benefits in the event of another government shutdown. It also would have authorized the construction of 27 new clinics and medical facilities, and it would have provided tuition assistance to post-9/11 vets.
It is the kind of legislation that used to be a no brainer, but it shouldn’t come as a surprise that the same group of Republicans who think that they shouldn’t have to pay the nation’s bills also want to renege on their obligations to our veterans.
Senate Republicans committed a disgraceful betrayal of the promise that has been made to those who put their lives on the line for this country. I hope this is a wake up call for vets who think that the Republican Party has their interests at heart."
"The only message that can be taken away from today’s vote is that Senate Republicans think it is more important to deny President Obama a “win” than it is to help our nation’s veterans. The bill contained provisions that would restore the COLA for vets, and protect them from losing their benefits in the event of another government shutdown. It also would have authorized the construction of 27 new clinics and medical facilities, and it would have provided tuition assistance to post-9/11 vets.
It is the kind of legislation that used to be a no brainer, but it shouldn’t come as a surprise that the same group of Republicans who think that they shouldn’t have to pay the nation’s bills also want to renege on their obligations to our veterans.
Senate Republicans committed a disgraceful betrayal of the promise that has been made to those who put their lives on the line for this country. I hope this is a wake up call for vets who think that the Republican Party has their interests at heart."
The dying right: Why Christian fundamentalists are in panic mode
The dying right: Why Christian fundamentalists are in panic mode
"The Christian Right’s dirty little secret is they are acutely aware that changing demographics are running against them."
"The Christian Right’s dirty little secret is they are acutely aware that changing demographics are running against them."
The Deficit Fell Faster Last Year Than Any Since The End Of World War II
www.thinkprogress.org/economy/2014/02/28/3344231/deficit-fall-2013/
"The federal budget deficit fell faster last year than in any year since the end of World War II, according to a Treasury Department report on Thursday. It declined from $1.1 trillion in 2012 to $680 billion in 2013.
That represents the smallest deficit since 2008 in nominal terms. It’s now 4.1 percent of GDP, dropping from a high of more than 10 percent during the depths of the recession. It’s less than half of what it was in 2009, when the recession ended."
"The federal budget deficit fell faster last year than in any year since the end of World War II, according to a Treasury Department report on Thursday. It declined from $1.1 trillion in 2012 to $680 billion in 2013.
That represents the smallest deficit since 2008 in nominal terms. It’s now 4.1 percent of GDP, dropping from a high of more than 10 percent during the depths of the recession. It’s less than half of what it was in 2009, when the recession ended."
WATCH: Sen. Harry Reid Slams Koch Brothers For Lying Obamacare Smear Campaign
www.addictinginfo.org/2014/02/27/harry-reid-slams-koch-brothers-aca-lies/
"Because the Koch Brothers have been unable to find people in real need for affordable insurance where Obamacare was a net negative, they had to resort to lies. Debunkers have been playing Whack-A-Mole with every single false ad, Fox News false story, and or lying politicians. the Koch Brothers keep paying for via shadow organizations like Americans for Prosperity."
"Because the Koch Brothers have been unable to find people in real need for affordable insurance where Obamacare was a net negative, they had to resort to lies. Debunkers have been playing Whack-A-Mole with every single false ad, Fox News false story, and or lying politicians. the Koch Brothers keep paying for via shadow organizations like Americans for Prosperity."
Mitch McConnell is Building a Republican Army to Kill the Minimum Wage
www.politicususa.com/2014/02/28/mitch-mcconnell-endorse-republican-candidate-rid-minimum-wage.html
"We all know that Republican Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell is against raising the minimum wage. He voted against it 16 times.
But McConnell is supporting U.S. Senate candidate and North Carolina state House Speaker Thom Tillis. Tillis is not only against raising the minimum wage, but he thinks the entire minimum wage idea should be eliminated."
"We all know that Republican Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell is against raising the minimum wage. He voted against it 16 times.
But McConnell is supporting U.S. Senate candidate and North Carolina state House Speaker Thom Tillis. Tillis is not only against raising the minimum wage, but he thinks the entire minimum wage idea should be eliminated."
The right’s Ayn Rand hypocrisy: Why their “religious” posture is a total sham
The right’s Ayn Rand hypocrisy: Why their “religious” posture is a total sham
"Speaking of Rand in 2005, Paul Ryan noted “I grew up reading Ayn Rand and it taught me quite a bit about who I am and what my value systems are, and what my beliefs are … It’s inspired me so much that it’s required reading in my office for all my interns and my staff.” Ryan went on to claim that Rand was the very reason he went into politics in the first place, and that it’s important for the future of America to return to Rand’s vision. Though he’s since repudiated – to some confusing degree – his former commitment to Rand, Ryan’s policies have undergone no significant changes between the before and after."
"Speaking of Rand in 2005, Paul Ryan noted “I grew up reading Ayn Rand and it taught me quite a bit about who I am and what my value systems are, and what my beliefs are … It’s inspired me so much that it’s required reading in my office for all my interns and my staff.” Ryan went on to claim that Rand was the very reason he went into politics in the first place, and that it’s important for the future of America to return to Rand’s vision. Though he’s since repudiated – to some confusing degree – his former commitment to Rand, Ryan’s policies have undergone no significant changes between the before and after."
Thursday, February 27, 2014
Christie’s Troubles Mount as the Feds Open an Inquiry Into Bridgegate | The Nation
Christie’s Troubles Mount as the Feds Open an Inquiry Into Bridgegate | The Nation
"Governor Christie would dearly love for Bridgegate to go away, but that’s not happening any time soon. If you haven’t been following the story lately, the scandal is unfolding quietly, mostly behind the scenes, and it’s gaining momentum."
"Governor Christie would dearly love for Bridgegate to go away, but that’s not happening any time soon. If you haven’t been following the story lately, the scandal is unfolding quietly, mostly behind the scenes, and it’s gaining momentum."
500 Other Foods Besides Subway Sandwich Bread Containing Yoga Mat Chemical
www.www.alternet.org/food/500-other-foods-besides-subway-sandwich-bread-containing-yoga-mat-chemical
"Subway’s announcement, earlier this month, that its bread would no longer be made with a chemical foaming agent also found in yoga mats and shoe rubber, made a splash for two reasons: first, because it marked the success of a consumer-driven campaign to get the company to reform its practices; and second, because most of us were surprised to find out that the chemical was being used in the first place."
"Subway’s announcement, earlier this month, that its bread would no longer be made with a chemical foaming agent also found in yoga mats and shoe rubber, made a splash for two reasons: first, because it marked the success of a consumer-driven campaign to get the company to reform its practices; and second, because most of us were surprised to find out that the chemical was being used in the first place."
Maine's Paul LePage Might Just Be the Worst Governor of All | The Nation
Maine's Paul LePage Might Just Be the Worst Governor of All | The Nation
"The first-term governor packed his administration with lobbyists and used his office to promote their environmental-deregulation agenda, and allegedly went so far as to fire a state employee who testified in favor of policies the administration opposed.
Gov. LePage also attempted to gut his state’s open records act, and is under investigation by the federal government for trying to bully employees of the state Department of Labor into deciding more cases in favor of business."
"The first-term governor packed his administration with lobbyists and used his office to promote their environmental-deregulation agenda, and allegedly went so far as to fire a state employee who testified in favor of policies the administration opposed.
Gov. LePage also attempted to gut his state’s open records act, and is under investigation by the federal government for trying to bully employees of the state Department of Labor into deciding more cases in favor of business."
'Unusually High Number' of Workers at Leaking Nuclear Dump Test Radiation Positive | Common Dreams
'Unusually High Number' of Workers at Leaking Nuclear Dump Test Radiation Positive | Common Dreams
"Thirteen workers at an underground nuclear waste dump in New Mexico have tested positive for radiation following a leak of radioactive particles into the air earlier this month, the Department of Energy announced Wednesday."
"Thirteen workers at an underground nuclear waste dump in New Mexico have tested positive for radiation following a leak of radioactive particles into the air earlier this month, the Department of Energy announced Wednesday."
The 3 Biggest Surprises From An Investigation Into A Swiss Bank That Helps Americans Dodge Taxes
www.thinkprogress.org/economy/2014/02/26/3332701/senate-investigation-tax-evasion-credit-suisse/
"Estimates of how much money the bank hid from American tax authorities range widely depending on how the estimates are done, the report says, from a $5 billion estimate using the bank’s own methods to a $12 billion estimate using a more rigorous approach.
In total, individual and corporate tax evasion costs the country an estimated $300 billion each year. Swiss banks play a key role in that evasion, but they are far from alone in recruiting and facilitating American tax dodgers."
"Estimates of how much money the bank hid from American tax authorities range widely depending on how the estimates are done, the report says, from a $5 billion estimate using the bank’s own methods to a $12 billion estimate using a more rigorous approach.
In total, individual and corporate tax evasion costs the country an estimated $300 billion each year. Swiss banks play a key role in that evasion, but they are far from alone in recruiting and facilitating American tax dodgers."
Keystone PipeLIES Exposed: The Facts on Phantom Jobs, Phony Gas Prices, and Missing Revenue
Keystone PipeLIES Exposed: The Facts on Phantom Jobs, Phony Gas Prices, and Missing Revenue
"KXL likely would create just 35 permanent jobs and 15 temporary jobs that would have “negligible socioeconomic impacts"."
"KXL likely would create just 35 permanent jobs and 15 temporary jobs that would have “negligible socioeconomic impacts"."
Right wing video circulating depicting Obama being assassinated in a Theater like Abraham Lincoln
www.freakoutnation.com/2014/02/26/right-wing-video-circulating-depicting-obama-being-assassinated-in-a-theater-like-abraham-lincoln/
"Alex Jones’ site Infowars condones the implications in the cartoon and cannot seem to fathom why the creator of Conrad the Constitution, Tim Fox, has been paid a visit by the Secret Service concerning his work, which is titled, Obama Assassination."
"Alex Jones’ site Infowars condones the implications in the cartoon and cannot seem to fathom why the creator of Conrad the Constitution, Tim Fox, has been paid a visit by the Secret Service concerning his work, which is titled, Obama Assassination."
Republicans Busted for Trying to Use Fake IRS Scandal To Protect the Koch Brothers
www.politicususa.com/2014/02/26/republicans-busted-fake-irs-scandal-protect-koch-brothers.html
"Why are Republicans trying to force the IRS to look the other way? Because Republicans can’t win elections without dark money spreading lies about Democrats. Republicans can’t afford to run on issues. They have to run on smears, since their policies are determined by the Koch Brothers et al, and thus benefit the top 1% instead of the people.
The Republican intention was to manipulate the IRS with a fake story that got a lot of press and thus would be the narrative that stuck in the public’s mind. The press has moved on and barely managed, if at all, to clarify that there was no scandal other than the fact that Republicans lied and schemed to manufacture this fake scandal for the cameras. The Republicans were pulling a classic Karl Rove — attack and put the IRS on the defense, along with the Obama administration as a whole. This way no one would feel free to actually investigate Karl Rove, the Koch Brothers, etc, because it would look bad.
But it backfired."
"Why are Republicans trying to force the IRS to look the other way? Because Republicans can’t win elections without dark money spreading lies about Democrats. Republicans can’t afford to run on issues. They have to run on smears, since their policies are determined by the Koch Brothers et al, and thus benefit the top 1% instead of the people.
The Republican intention was to manipulate the IRS with a fake story that got a lot of press and thus would be the narrative that stuck in the public’s mind. The press has moved on and barely managed, if at all, to clarify that there was no scandal other than the fact that Republicans lied and schemed to manufacture this fake scandal for the cameras. The Republicans were pulling a classic Karl Rove — attack and put the IRS on the defense, along with the Obama administration as a whole. This way no one would feel free to actually investigate Karl Rove, the Koch Brothers, etc, because it would look bad.
But it backfired."
Facing Overwhelming Opposition, Arizona Governor Vetoes Anti-Gay Bill
www.thinkprogress.org/lgbt/2014/02/26/3337381/arizona-governor-vetoes-anti-lgbt-license-discriminate/
"After a week of national backlash, Arizona Gov. Jan Brewer (R) has vetoed SB 1062, which would have allowed religious beliefs to be used to justify discrimination against LGBT people and others. Explaining her veto, Brewer said, “I call them like I see them despite the cheers or boos from the crowd.” She added that the bill does not address a specific concern and that she knows of no examples of how religious liberty has been under attack."
"After a week of national backlash, Arizona Gov. Jan Brewer (R) has vetoed SB 1062, which would have allowed religious beliefs to be used to justify discrimination against LGBT people and others. Explaining her veto, Brewer said, “I call them like I see them despite the cheers or boos from the crowd.” She added that the bill does not address a specific concern and that she knows of no examples of how religious liberty has been under attack."
Georgia Lawmaker Exploits Loophole In His Own Lobbying Law To Fundraise For ALEC
www.thinkprogress.org/economy/2014/02/26/3334411/georgia-speaker-alec-letter/
"Last year, Georgia Speaker of the House David Ralston (R) wrote an ethics reform law he claimed would completely ban lobbyist gifts to state legislators. But a 2013 fundraising letter he authored took advantage of a loophole by asking for businesses and lobbyists to contribute to a “scholarship fund” to pay expenses for legislators to attend the American Legislative Exchange Council’s (ALEC) pro-corporate conferences."
"Last year, Georgia Speaker of the House David Ralston (R) wrote an ethics reform law he claimed would completely ban lobbyist gifts to state legislators. But a 2013 fundraising letter he authored took advantage of a loophole by asking for businesses and lobbyists to contribute to a “scholarship fund” to pay expenses for legislators to attend the American Legislative Exchange Council’s (ALEC) pro-corporate conferences."
WATCH: Fox News Analyst Blames Civil War And Jim Crow On Abraham Lincoln
www.addictinginfo.org/2014/02/26/andrew-napolitano-lincoln-slavery-fox/
"Judge Andrew Napolitano claimed if it weren’t for Abraham Lincoln, slavery would have died and Jim Crow would never have happened."
"Judge Andrew Napolitano claimed if it weren’t for Abraham Lincoln, slavery would have died and Jim Crow would never have happened."
PERRspectives: Camp's House GOP Tax Plan Hits Blue Staters Hard
PERRspectives: Camp's House GOP Tax Plan Hits Blue Staters Hard
"If Camp's plan became law, the dynamic of "red state socialism" by which federal tax dollars generally flow from wealthier Democratic states to less well-off Republican ones would only become more pronounced. Red state spending on education, unemployment insurance and (more than ever) health care has been and will continue to be underwritten by blue state taxpayers."
"If Camp's plan became law, the dynamic of "red state socialism" by which federal tax dollars generally flow from wealthier Democratic states to less well-off Republican ones would only become more pronounced. Red state spending on education, unemployment insurance and (more than ever) health care has been and will continue to be underwritten by blue state taxpayers."
‘Obama Assassination’ Cartoon Prompts Visits From The Secret Service (Video)
‘Obama Assassination’ Cartoon Prompts Visits From The Secret Service (Video)
"The rest of us see threatening the President as a felony under U.S Code Title 18, Section 871." Remember, Republicans built this.
"The rest of us see threatening the President as a felony under U.S Code Title 18, Section 871." Remember, Republicans built this.
I lost my dad to Fox News: How a generation was captured by thrashing hysteria
I lost my dad to Fox News: How a generation was captured by thrashing hysteria
"I do not blame or condemn my father for his opinions. If you consumed a daily diet of right-wing fury, erroneously labeled “news,” you could very likely end up in the same place. Again, this is all by design. Let’s call it the Fox News effect. Take sweet, kindly senior citizens and feed them a steady stream of demagoguery and repetition, all wrapped in the laughable slogan of “fair and balanced.” Even watching the commercials on Fox, one is treated to sales pitches for gold and emergency food rations, the product cornerstones of the paranoid. To some people the idea of retirees yelling at the television all day may seem funny, but this isn’t a joke. We’re losing the nation’s grandparents, and it’s an American tragedy."
"I do not blame or condemn my father for his opinions. If you consumed a daily diet of right-wing fury, erroneously labeled “news,” you could very likely end up in the same place. Again, this is all by design. Let’s call it the Fox News effect. Take sweet, kindly senior citizens and feed them a steady stream of demagoguery and repetition, all wrapped in the laughable slogan of “fair and balanced.” Even watching the commercials on Fox, one is treated to sales pitches for gold and emergency food rations, the product cornerstones of the paranoid. To some people the idea of retirees yelling at the television all day may seem funny, but this isn’t a joke. We’re losing the nation’s grandparents, and it’s an American tragedy."
Stealing Election 2014: Ohio GOP Kills Sunday and Weekday Early Voting! (Video)
Stealing Election 2014: Ohio GOP Kills Sunday and Weekday Early Voting! (Video)
"According to a report from the Associated Press, thanks to Secretary of State John Husted, Ohio voters will no longer have the option of early voting on Sundays or weekday nights." The only way republicans have a shot is to prevent as many people as possible from voting.
"According to a report from the Associated Press, thanks to Secretary of State John Husted, Ohio voters will no longer have the option of early voting on Sundays or weekday nights." The only way republicans have a shot is to prevent as many people as possible from voting.
Anonymous Calls For World Day of Action on April 4
Anonymous Calls For World Day of Action on April 4
"The Worldwide Wave of Action begins on April 4 at "former occupation sites around the world"."
"The Worldwide Wave of Action begins on April 4 at "former occupation sites around the world"."
Bernie Sanders: If You Can't Afford to Take Care of Your Veterans, Don't Go to War
Bernie Sanders: If You Can't Afford to Take Care of Your Veterans, Don't Go to War
"Sen. Bernie Sanders had a pretty simple answer for CNN's Wolf Blitzer when he asked him what he would say to his fellow members of Congress who claim that the United States can't afford to pay for expanded benefits for members of our military."
"Sen. Bernie Sanders had a pretty simple answer for CNN's Wolf Blitzer when he asked him what he would say to his fellow members of Congress who claim that the United States can't afford to pay for expanded benefits for members of our military."
Rep. Gutierrez Gives Darrell Issa Hell Over 'Do-Nothing' Congress
Rep. Gutierrez Gives Darrell Issa Hell Over 'Do-Nothing' Congress
"Rep. Gutierrez did a magnificent job of exposing the cynical Republicans and their cynical hearings.
All I can say is Amen, and vote these GOP idiots out in November."
"Rep. Gutierrez did a magnificent job of exposing the cynical Republicans and their cynical hearings.
All I can say is Amen, and vote these GOP idiots out in November."
Wednesday, February 26, 2014
Fox News Has A Nasty Anti-Gay Hangover
www.mediamatters.org/blog/2014/02/26/fox-news-has-a-nasty-anti-gay-hangover/198236
"Now, many of the network's personalities are waking up to the harsh reality that their words have consequences. They're in the uncomfortable position of to decide between disowning the right-wing talking points they helped promote or siding with measures that even they admit look a lot like pro-segregation laws.
It can't be a very pleasant feeling. But it's exactly what happens when a network's commitment to appealing to anti-gay anxieties overrides its interest in honest and fair reporting."
"Now, many of the network's personalities are waking up to the harsh reality that their words have consequences. They're in the uncomfortable position of to decide between disowning the right-wing talking points they helped promote or siding with measures that even they admit look a lot like pro-segregation laws.
It can't be a very pleasant feeling. But it's exactly what happens when a network's commitment to appealing to anti-gay anxieties overrides its interest in honest and fair reporting."
Tucker Carlson Is A Worthless Person: It's 'Fascism' To Treat Gays Equally
Tucker Carlson Is A Worthless Person: It's 'Fascism' To Treat Gays Equally
"As usual, Fox News was there to bail him out and give him a weekend job and the only way he can keep it is if he makes ludicrous arguments that are patterned around Louis Gohmert."
"As usual, Fox News was there to bail him out and give him a weekend job and the only way he can keep it is if he makes ludicrous arguments that are patterned around Louis Gohmert."
Elizabeth Warren takes on Sallie Mae
Elizabeth Warren takes on Sallie Mae
"The Massachusetts senator is worried that the student loan behemoth is hurting young people and the economy"
"The Massachusetts senator is worried that the student loan behemoth is hurting young people and the economy"
North Carolina: Where the Politics are as Murky as the Water | Common Dreams
North Carolina: Where the Politics are as Murky as the Water | Common Dreams
"Standing outside the Duke Energy Center in Charlotte, North Carolina Tuesday, roughly one hundred protesters chanted, "Shame!"—scolding the company responsible for last month's coal ash spill into the Dan River."
"Standing outside the Duke Energy Center in Charlotte, North Carolina Tuesday, roughly one hundred protesters chanted, "Shame!"—scolding the company responsible for last month's coal ash spill into the Dan River."
Arkansas GOP Pushes To End Medicaid Expansion, Kick 100K Off Coverage
Arkansas GOP Pushes To End Medicaid Expansion, Kick 100K Off Coverage
"Despite voting to expand Medicaid last year under a modified proposal referred to as the 'private option,' Arkansas lawmakers are having a tough time renewing it, preferring to see over 100,000 poor people closed out of access to health care. Worse yet, the actual expansion has only been in effect for two months."
"Despite voting to expand Medicaid last year under a modified proposal referred to as the 'private option,' Arkansas lawmakers are having a tough time renewing it, preferring to see over 100,000 poor people closed out of access to health care. Worse yet, the actual expansion has only been in effect for two months."
How John Birch Society Paranoia Killed An Alabama County's Growth Plan
How John Birch Society Paranoia Killed An Alabama County's Growth Plan
"Claiming fears of black helicopters and Agenda 21, the John Birch Society, Americans for Prosperity and other radical groups killed a reasonable growth plan."
"Claiming fears of black helicopters and Agenda 21, the John Birch Society, Americans for Prosperity and other radical groups killed a reasonable growth plan."
Tuesday, February 25, 2014
WildLeaks: Giving Voice to the Powerless, Animal and Human | Common Dreams
WildLeaks: Giving Voice to the Powerless, Animal and Human | Common Dreams
"With wildlife crime the most immediate threat to many species and the world's fourth largest transnational crime after drugs, counterfeiting and human trafficking, this month saw thelaunch of WildLeaks, the first secure, online whistleblower platform for crimes like illegal logging, poaching of endangered species, trafficking of live animals like apes, birds and big cats, and buying and selling the coveted parts of dead ones - ivory, horn, bone - for the "luxury" trade."
"With wildlife crime the most immediate threat to many species and the world's fourth largest transnational crime after drugs, counterfeiting and human trafficking, this month saw thelaunch of WildLeaks, the first secure, online whistleblower platform for crimes like illegal logging, poaching of endangered species, trafficking of live animals like apes, birds and big cats, and buying and selling the coveted parts of dead ones - ivory, horn, bone - for the "luxury" trade."
New Study Confirms One of Agent Orange's Toxic Legacies | Common Dreams
New Study Confirms One of Agent Orange's Toxic Legacies | Common Dreams
"A new study reveals that members of the Air Force Reserve were exposed to significant levels of Agent Orange long after planes were dumping the toxic cocktail on Vietnam."
"A new study reveals that members of the Air Force Reserve were exposed to significant levels of Agent Orange long after planes were dumping the toxic cocktail on Vietnam."
Texas Tea Party candidate Chris Mapp won’t apologize for anti-immigrant racial slur
Texas Tea Party candidate Chris Mapp won’t apologize for anti-immigrant racial slur
"Republican Senate hopeful Chris Mapp says that in Texas, using this slur is as "normal as breathing air"."
"Republican Senate hopeful Chris Mapp says that in Texas, using this slur is as "normal as breathing air"."
WATCH: Tea Party Candidate For Senate Caught Posting Grisly X-Rays With Callous Comments Online
www.addictinginfo.org/2014/02/25/dr-milton-wolf-caught-posting-x-rays/
"If you thought that, after Sarah Palin, Louie Gohmert and Rand Paul, tea party politicians just could not get any worse, wait until you meet Dr. Milton Wolf. Wolf, who is a candidate for the US Senate, is currently employed as a radiologist, in Johnson County, KS. Earlier this week the Topeka Capital-Journal exposed the doctor’s disturbing habit of taking pictures of patient x-rays and posting them online."
"If you thought that, after Sarah Palin, Louie Gohmert and Rand Paul, tea party politicians just could not get any worse, wait until you meet Dr. Milton Wolf. Wolf, who is a candidate for the US Senate, is currently employed as a radiologist, in Johnson County, KS. Earlier this week the Topeka Capital-Journal exposed the doctor’s disturbing habit of taking pictures of patient x-rays and posting them online."
“The Daily Show” destroys Fox News libertarian Andrew Napolitano for blaming the Civil War on Abraham Lincoln
“The Daily Show” destroys Fox News libertarian Andrew Napolitano for blaming the Civil War on Abraham Lincoln
""The Daily Show's" "senior black correspondent" eviscerates a clueless defense of the Confederacy"
""The Daily Show's" "senior black correspondent" eviscerates a clueless defense of the Confederacy"
Utah lawmaker proposes divorce barriers so women don't 'surprise' men
Utah lawmaker proposes divorce barriers so women don't 'surprise' men
"Utah state Rep. Jim Nielson (R) says that he is sponsoring a bill to force divorcing couples to take classes because he says that men are often "surprised" when women want to end the marriage."
"Utah state Rep. Jim Nielson (R) says that he is sponsoring a bill to force divorcing couples to take classes because he says that men are often "surprised" when women want to end the marriage."
CT Gov. Malloy Takes Michael Steele to School Over Minimum Wage
CT Gov. Malloy Takes Michael Steele to School Over Minimum Wage
"He shut down Steele's talking points on the CBO report. He whacked the Republicans for having absolutely no alternatives to offer to raising the minimum wage and just saying no at every turn. And he made a compelling case for the fact that standing up for making a living wage is standing up for the working class, and you either care about lifting people out of poverty, or you don't. It's as simple as that."
"He shut down Steele's talking points on the CBO report. He whacked the Republicans for having absolutely no alternatives to offer to raising the minimum wage and just saying no at every turn. And he made a compelling case for the fact that standing up for making a living wage is standing up for the working class, and you either care about lifting people out of poverty, or you don't. It's as simple as that."
Exxon Mobil CEO Sues To Keep Fracking Away From His Backyard
Exxon Mobil CEO Sues To Keep Fracking Away From His Backyard
"Forbes: "Meet Rex Tillerson, the CEO of oil and gas superstar ExxonMobil Corporation—the largest natural gas producer in these United States of America—and a newly emerging giant in the world of exquisite hypocrisy"."
"Forbes: "Meet Rex Tillerson, the CEO of oil and gas superstar ExxonMobil Corporation—the largest natural gas producer in these United States of America—and a newly emerging giant in the world of exquisite hypocrisy"."
Utah lawmaker targets women with new divorce barriers so men aren’t ‘surprised’
www.rawstory.com/rs/2014/02/25/utah-lawmaker-targets-women-with-new-divorce-barriers-so-men-arent-surprised/
"Utah state Rep. Jim Nielson (R) says that he is sponsoring a bill to force divorcing couples to take classes because he says that men are often “surprised” when women want to end the marriage."
"Utah state Rep. Jim Nielson (R) says that he is sponsoring a bill to force divorcing couples to take classes because he says that men are often “surprised” when women want to end the marriage."
Rand Paul Hits Rock Bottom By Accusing Bill Clinton Of Sexual Violence Towards Women
www.politicususa.com/2014/02/25/rand-paul-hits-rock-bottom-accusing-bill-clinton-sexual-violence-women.html
"Why does he have to make up so much stuff? The reason is because Rand Paul is a pathological liar. Once he tells something dishonest, he has to keep building on it and adding to it. The lie has to keep getting bigger and bigger. That is all he knows. He can’t help himself."
"Why does he have to make up so much stuff? The reason is because Rand Paul is a pathological liar. Once he tells something dishonest, he has to keep building on it and adding to it. The lie has to keep getting bigger and bigger. That is all he knows. He can’t help himself."
GOP Lobbyist Writes Law Banning Gays From NFL
www.addictinginfo.org/2014/02/25/jack-burkman-ban-gays-nfl/
"They only want less government in the areas that benefit them. The religious right has no problem with government intrusion on business, and on people’s private lives, when the issue at hand is their definition of morality. Otherwise, Jack Burkman would never say that Congress needs to define morals and values for the NFL."
"They only want less government in the areas that benefit them. The religious right has no problem with government intrusion on business, and on people’s private lives, when the issue at hand is their definition of morality. Otherwise, Jack Burkman would never say that Congress needs to define morals and values for the NFL."
The Radical Right Can Sit Down And Shut Up, Equality Is Here To Stay
www.forwardprogressives.com/radical-right-can-sit-shut-equality-stay/
"You are not a special privileged class above everyone else because you are a heterosexual Christian, you are the same as everyone else – and it’s time for you to get over yourselves. So, like the disgruntled old man at the game Friday night, you have a couple of choices. You can sit down, shut up and go about living your life with all of the rights that other people are just now getting to enjoy. Or you can move to a place where the laws are actually based on religion, the LGBT community is pushed so far into the closet they might as well be in Narnia, and Christianity is actually persecuted. It’s called Saudi Arabia, and I’ll be glad to help you pack."
"You are not a special privileged class above everyone else because you are a heterosexual Christian, you are the same as everyone else – and it’s time for you to get over yourselves. So, like the disgruntled old man at the game Friday night, you have a couple of choices. You can sit down, shut up and go about living your life with all of the rights that other people are just now getting to enjoy. Or you can move to a place where the laws are actually based on religion, the LGBT community is pushed so far into the closet they might as well be in Narnia, and Christianity is actually persecuted. It’s called Saudi Arabia, and I’ll be glad to help you pack."
Apple Warns Arizona Governor Anti-Gay Bill Will Hurt Highly Anticipated Sapphire Glass Factory
www.thinkprogress.org/lgbt/2014/02/25/3328891/apple-arizona-anti-gay/
"Apple called up Arizona’s governor, Jan Brewer (R) Tuesday to urge her to veto the state’s anti-gay bill.
The state’s controversial SB 1062 bill allows individuals to discriminate against LGBT people and potentially other groups based on a religious objection."
"Apple called up Arizona’s governor, Jan Brewer (R) Tuesday to urge her to veto the state’s anti-gay bill.
The state’s controversial SB 1062 bill allows individuals to discriminate against LGBT people and potentially other groups based on a religious objection."
Arizona bill’s other outrage: Why anti-gay bigotry is just the beginning
www.salon.com/2014/02/25/arizona_bills_other_outrage_why_anti_gay_bigotry_is_just_the_beginning/
"Legalizing discrimination is horrible enough. But a sneaky pro-corporate provision in the bill will also shock you"
"Legalizing discrimination is horrible enough. But a sneaky pro-corporate provision in the bill will also shock you"
How Fox News Helped Promote State Anti-Gay Segregation Bills
www.mediamatters.org/blog/2014/02/25/how-fox-news-helped-promote-state-anti-gay-segr/198196
"Fox News has spent the last several months championing anti-gay business owners who refuse to serve gay customers - depicting efforts to prevent discrimination as threats to religious liberty. Now, with several states debating bills that would legalize homophobic discrimination in business and employment, Fox News is now defending the extreme, anti-gay segregation policies it helped to create."
"Fox News has spent the last several months championing anti-gay business owners who refuse to serve gay customers - depicting efforts to prevent discrimination as threats to religious liberty. Now, with several states debating bills that would legalize homophobic discrimination in business and employment, Fox News is now defending the extreme, anti-gay segregation policies it helped to create."
Arizona Super Bowl Committee Urges Veto Of State’s ‘License To Discriminate’ Law
www.thinkprogress.org/sports/2014/02/25/3327381/arizona-super-bowl-committee-urges-veto-states-license-discriminate-law/
"As Arizona Gov. Jan Brewer (R) considers whether to sign a law that would give businesses a “license to discriminate” against LGBT people, the state’s Super Bowl host committee is urging her to stamp a veto on the bill."
"As Arizona Gov. Jan Brewer (R) considers whether to sign a law that would give businesses a “license to discriminate” against LGBT people, the state’s Super Bowl host committee is urging her to stamp a veto on the bill."
Ten Of The Most Ludicrous Fox News Guests
www.mediamatters.org/blog/2014/02/24/ten-of-the-most-ludicrous-fox-news-guests/198191
"People that just missed the cut include a self-proclaimed prophet who warned that the Antichrist "will employ precisely the same methods" as President Obama and the author of the birther tomes Where's The Birth Certificate? and Where's The Real Birth Certificate? "
"People that just missed the cut include a self-proclaimed prophet who warned that the Antichrist "will employ precisely the same methods" as President Obama and the author of the birther tomes Where's The Birth Certificate? and Where's The Real Birth Certificate? "
GOP’s secret idiot? If George P. Bush is its future, the party’s in trouble
GOP’s secret idiot? If George P. Bush is its future, the party’s in trouble
"Not many Texas voters really understand what the land commissioner does, making it the perfect office for someone with a lot of money and/or name recognition but no prior experience. Unfortunately, it is actually a pretty powerful state office, responsible for millions of acres of land, including mineral rights leasing, making it perhaps not the best office for a political neophyte with no prior government experience."
"Not many Texas voters really understand what the land commissioner does, making it the perfect office for someone with a lot of money and/or name recognition but no prior experience. Unfortunately, it is actually a pretty powerful state office, responsible for millions of acres of land, including mineral rights leasing, making it perhaps not the best office for a political neophyte with no prior government experience."
Radioactive Fukushima Plume Due to Reach West Coast this Spring | Common Dreams
Radioactive Fukushima Plume Due to Reach West Coast this Spring | Common Dreams
"A radioactive plume released from the Fukushima meltdown is expected to reach the west coast of the U.S. in April, said a panel of researchers in Honolulu Monday. However, without any federal or international monitoring, scientists are bereft of "actual data," guessing at the amount of radiation coming at us."
"A radioactive plume released from the Fukushima meltdown is expected to reach the west coast of the U.S. in April, said a panel of researchers in Honolulu Monday. However, without any federal or international monitoring, scientists are bereft of "actual data," guessing at the amount of radiation coming at us."
Remember That Nuclear Dump Site That 'Was Never Supposed to Leak'? | Common Dreams
Remember That Nuclear Dump Site That 'Was Never Supposed to Leak'? | Common Dreams
"A suspected underground leak at the only deep-earth nuclear waste dump in the United States is now believed to be releasing radiation into the air, the Department of Energyannounced Monday, sparking alarm among residents near the southeastern New Mexico site."
"A suspected underground leak at the only deep-earth nuclear waste dump in the United States is now believed to be releasing radiation into the air, the Department of Energyannounced Monday, sparking alarm among residents near the southeastern New Mexico site."
TEPCO: Fukushima Radiation Was 'Significantly' Undercounted
TEPCO: Fukushima Radiation Was 'Significantly' Undercounted
"It just goes to show you how capable and trustworthy corporate power providers are"
"It just goes to show you how capable and trustworthy corporate power providers are"
5 hypocritical credos GOP uses to justify inequality
5 hypocritical credos GOP uses to justify inequality
"John Boehner and Paul Ryan's idea of trickle-down economics subsidizes the rich and ignores unemployment"
"John Boehner and Paul Ryan's idea of trickle-down economics subsidizes the rich and ignores unemployment"
White America’s “waiver mania”: The right’s plot to minimize its culture war defeat
White America’s “waiver mania”: The right’s plot to minimize its culture war defeat
"Rather than deny America's cultural shifts, conservatives have a new strategy: exemption from laws that offend them"
"Rather than deny America's cultural shifts, conservatives have a new strategy: exemption from laws that offend them"
Hate your cable plan? Here’s how conservatives ruined the market
Hate your cable plan? Here’s how conservatives ruined the market
"Comcast and Time-Warner are about to control the cable market with one company. How Scalia and others let it happen"
"Comcast and Time-Warner are about to control the cable market with one company. How Scalia and others let it happen"
Virginia Senator: Women Are Childbearers Who 'Some Call Mothers'
Virginia Senator: Women Are Childbearers Who 'Some Call Mothers'
"Virginia State Senator Steve Martin was upset over a Valentine from pro-choice groups, and lost his composure long enough to express his true feelings toward women."
"Virginia State Senator Steve Martin was upset over a Valentine from pro-choice groups, and lost his composure long enough to express his true feelings toward women."
Hypocrisies of the Super-Rich
Hypocrisies of the Super-Rich
"Hypocrite of the Day? Perhaps Exxon CEO Rex Tillerson, who criticized fracking regulations for "holding back the American economic recovery," and then protested when a fracking water tower was to be built near his home. Or maybe banker Camden R. Fine, who called Post Office Banks "the worst idea since the Ford Edsel," even though low-income families pay almost 10 percent of their income in fees to traditional banks.
The hypocrisy keeps on coming, and our country's wealth keeps moving up to the hypocrites."
"Hypocrite of the Day? Perhaps Exxon CEO Rex Tillerson, who criticized fracking regulations for "holding back the American economic recovery," and then protested when a fracking water tower was to be built near his home. Or maybe banker Camden R. Fine, who called Post Office Banks "the worst idea since the Ford Edsel," even though low-income families pay almost 10 percent of their income in fees to traditional banks.
The hypocrisy keeps on coming, and our country's wealth keeps moving up to the hypocrites."
Citizens United Takes Another Swing at Campaign Finance Rules
www.motherjones.com/mojo/2014/02/citizens-united-redux
"501(c)(4)s have become a favorite vehicle for high-dollar donors to channel funds into political causes while remaining anonymous. Groups like the Koch Brothers' American for Prosperity have exploited these loopholes to turn their so-called social welfare organizations into campaign operations, running campaign ads to bolster their favorite candidates."
"501(c)(4)s have become a favorite vehicle for high-dollar donors to channel funds into political causes while remaining anonymous. Groups like the Koch Brothers' American for Prosperity have exploited these loopholes to turn their so-called social welfare organizations into campaign operations, running campaign ads to bolster their favorite candidates."
Nine out of 10 'most miserable' states are red, surprising no one
www.dailykos.com/story/2014/02/24/1280047/-Nine-out-of-10-most-miserable-states-are-Red-surprising-no-one
"And that's not a coincidence. Also not a coincidence: Those are southern states. In fact, regionalism seems to correlate strongly on this list."
"And that's not a coincidence. Also not a coincidence: Those are southern states. In fact, regionalism seems to correlate strongly on this list."
Monday, February 24, 2014
Republicans Deny Science, History, Math and Reality – Then Want Us to Take Them Seriously?
www.forwardprogressives.com/republicans-deny-science-history-math-reality-want-us-take-seriously/
"Republicans seem to have created this world where “truth” lies not in what’s actually real but in what they want to be real, and it’s a sad sight to behold."
"Republicans seem to have created this world where “truth” lies not in what’s actually real but in what they want to be real, and it’s a sad sight to behold."
Michele Bachmann’s political analysis is moronic — and the Republican Party knows it
Michele Bachmann’s political analysis is moronic — and the Republican Party knows it
"No, white guilt didn't elect Obama -- it was the non-white vote. That's why the GOP's trying to quash it"
"No, white guilt didn't elect Obama -- it was the non-white vote. That's why the GOP's trying to quash it"
Conservative Lawmakers And Arizona Businesses Urge Governor To Veto Anti-Gay Bill
www.thinkprogress.org/lgbt/2014/02/24/3322361/arizona-discriminate-veto/
"According to Kirstin Jarnagin, vice president of the Arizona Lodging and Tourism Assocation, people are already cancelling trips to Arizona because of the negative perception the bill has brought to the state."
"According to Kirstin Jarnagin, vice president of the Arizona Lodging and Tourism Assocation, people are already cancelling trips to Arizona because of the negative perception the bill has brought to the state."
Boycotting Arizona
www.dailykos.com/story/2014/02/24/1279940/-Boycotting-Arizona
"Arizona tourism officials have also begun to sound the alarm. To put it plainly, this type of discrimination would be very bad for business"
"Arizona tourism officials have also begun to sound the alarm. To put it plainly, this type of discrimination would be very bad for business"
Georgia Wants to Allow Businesses to Kick Gay People Out of Diners
www.motherjones.com/mojo/2014/02/new-bill-georgia-would-allow-businesses-kick-gay-people-out-diners
"A bill moving swiftly through the Georgia House of Representatives would allow business owners who believe homosexuality is a sin to openly discriminate against gay Americans by denying them employment or banning them from restaurants and hotels."
"A bill moving swiftly through the Georgia House of Representatives would allow business owners who believe homosexuality is a sin to openly discriminate against gay Americans by denying them employment or banning them from restaurants and hotels."
Pressure Mounts for AZ Gov. Jan Brewer to Veto New 'Sharia Law' Against Gays
Pressure Mounts for AZ Gov. Jan Brewer to Veto New 'Sharia Law' Against Gays
"For all their fear-mongering of Sharia Law being brought to these shores, they're the ones embracing the same concepts in the name of hatred and bigotry. It's been the religious right that has lead the charge against all forms of laws protecting gays from discrimination and acts of violence and now they want to put into place theocratic laws to further harm the gay community. Fortunately, not all Arizonians feel the same way as the Center for Arizona Policy and Alliance Defending Freedom do."
"For all their fear-mongering of Sharia Law being brought to these shores, they're the ones embracing the same concepts in the name of hatred and bigotry. It's been the religious right that has lead the charge against all forms of laws protecting gays from discrimination and acts of violence and now they want to put into place theocratic laws to further harm the gay community. Fortunately, not all Arizonians feel the same way as the Center for Arizona Policy and Alliance Defending Freedom do."
The Politics of Hate: The Cornerstone of the Republican Party
www.forwardprogressives.com/politics-hate-cornerstone-republican-party/
"Anyone who denies that the tea party is built on a foundation of racism is either lying to you or lying to themselves. As the saying goes, “Not all tea partiers are racist, but almost all racists are members of the tea party.” But conservative hate goes well beyond simple racism. They hate Muslims, women, homosexuals, immigrants, people on welfare, the poor in general – pretty much anyone who isn’t a straight, white Christian male."
"Anyone who denies that the tea party is built on a foundation of racism is either lying to you or lying to themselves. As the saying goes, “Not all tea partiers are racist, but almost all racists are members of the tea party.” But conservative hate goes well beyond simple racism. They hate Muslims, women, homosexuals, immigrants, people on welfare, the poor in general – pretty much anyone who isn’t a straight, white Christian male."
Powerful GOP lobbyist drafts bill to ban gay athletes from playing in the NFL
www.rawstory.com/rs/2014/02/24/powerful-gop-lobbyist-drafts-bill-to-ban-gay-athletes-from-playing-in-the-nfl/
"Washington lobbyist Jack Burkman issued a statement saying that his firm, J M Burkman & Associates, is preparing legislation that would ban gay athletes from playing in the National Football League (NFL)."
"Washington lobbyist Jack Burkman issued a statement saying that his firm, J M Burkman & Associates, is preparing legislation that would ban gay athletes from playing in the National Football League (NFL)."
Big Telecom Bankrolls a National Network of Stink Tanks
Big Telecom Bankrolls a National Network of Stink Tanks
"Comcast and Time Warner Cable also financially underwrite a large network of state-based “think tanks” that work to push ALEC’s corporate agenda into law."
"Comcast and Time Warner Cable also financially underwrite a large network of state-based “think tanks” that work to push ALEC’s corporate agenda into law."
Yes, Virginia, You Pay Subsidies Not Just to Banks but to Flood-Prone Homes of the Rich
Yes, Virginia, You Pay Subsidies Not Just to Banks but to Flood-Prone Homes of the Rich
"You are supporting the habits of the rich in more ways than you know, including their love of water views."
"You are supporting the habits of the rich in more ways than you know, including their love of water views."
Arresting Development: Why the Comcast-Netflix Deal Should Worry You | Common Dreams
Arresting Development: Why the Comcast-Netflix Deal Should Worry You | Common Dreams
"On Sunday, Netflix agreed to pay Comcast an undisclosed amount to ensure that its videos stream smoothly to Comcast customers. But fans of Francis Underwood’s manipulations on House of Cards might want to temper their celebrations.
This is more than a deal between two giant companies: It will affect everyone who uses the Internet. And as with so many things involving Comcast, consumers will end up paying for it in the end.
The deal should also be a wake-up call to regulators who are weighing the proposed Comcast-Time Warner Cable merger and grappling with what to do about Net Neutrality."
"On Sunday, Netflix agreed to pay Comcast an undisclosed amount to ensure that its videos stream smoothly to Comcast customers. But fans of Francis Underwood’s manipulations on House of Cards might want to temper their celebrations.
This is more than a deal between two giant companies: It will affect everyone who uses the Internet. And as with so many things involving Comcast, consumers will end up paying for it in the end.
The deal should also be a wake-up call to regulators who are weighing the proposed Comcast-Time Warner Cable merger and grappling with what to do about Net Neutrality."
Brave Austin Police Arrest Dangerous Young Jogger For Crossing Street While Listening to Music, Then Say She Should Be Grateful They Didn't Rape Her | Common Dreams
Brave Austin Police Arrest Dangerous Young Jogger For Crossing Street While Listening to Music, Then Say She Should Be Grateful They Didn't Rape Her | Common Dreams
"So this happened: Austin police handcuffed, arrested and, with the help of burly reenforcements called in for the deadly assignment, threw into a patrol car Amanda Jo Stephen, 24, pleading and screaming all the while she “didn’t do anything wrong," after she jaywalked while jogging with earbuds in, thus failing to hear them demand her I.D., which in any case she didn't have because she'd gone out jogging not planning to be arrested by cops working on “pedestrian enforcement,” aka with not enough to do."
"So this happened: Austin police handcuffed, arrested and, with the help of burly reenforcements called in for the deadly assignment, threw into a patrol car Amanda Jo Stephen, 24, pleading and screaming all the while she “didn’t do anything wrong," after she jaywalked while jogging with earbuds in, thus failing to hear them demand her I.D., which in any case she didn't have because she'd gone out jogging not planning to be arrested by cops working on “pedestrian enforcement,” aka with not enough to do."
The March of Anthropogenic Climate Disruption
The March of Anthropogenic Climate Disruption
"Last year marked the 37th consecutive year of above-average global temperature, according to data from NASA."
"Last year marked the 37th consecutive year of above-average global temperature, according to data from NASA."
Sunday, February 23, 2014
Study Confirms Tar Sands Contamination First Nations Warned of for Years | Common Dreams
Study Confirms Tar Sands Contamination First Nations Warned of for Years | Common Dreams
"The study by Environment Canada shows that tailings ponds, open 'lakes' that hold toxic bi-products from tar sands mining, are leaching into groundwater and contaminating Alberta's Athabasa River."
"The study by Environment Canada shows that tailings ponds, open 'lakes' that hold toxic bi-products from tar sands mining, are leaching into groundwater and contaminating Alberta's Athabasa River."
Fox Pundit Asks if America Should Eliminate Minimum Wage Because Switzerland Doesn't Have One
Fox Pundit Asks if America Should Eliminate Minimum Wage Because Switzerland Doesn't Have One
"The pundits on Faux "news" continue to cheer for a race to the bottom on wages in the United States."
"The pundits on Faux "news" continue to cheer for a race to the bottom on wages in the United States."
6 Signs of Psychosis From GOP Fringe This Week
www.alternet.org/tea-party-and-right/6-signs-psychosis-fringe-week
"Last week was filled with more idiotic outbursts from right-wingers, except some of them went beyond infantile rants and raves to posing real-life harm. As is often the case on the fringe these days, the tone was set by the biggest bigot from the biggest state, Republican U.S. Senator Ted Cruz."
"Last week was filled with more idiotic outbursts from right-wingers, except some of them went beyond infantile rants and raves to posing real-life harm. As is often the case on the fringe these days, the tone was set by the biggest bigot from the biggest state, Republican U.S. Senator Ted Cruz."
Another “Patriot” Terrorist Plot Results in Multiple Arrests
www.addictinginfo.org/2014/02/23/ga-right-wing-terrorist-plot-foiled/
"Those involved in “Patriot” groups often tout their main goal as protecting Americans and their freedoms, but a new terrorist plot by three Georgia “patriots” has brought the danger of militia groups back into the national spotlight. The three men, who were arrested on Feb. 15, planned on purchasing explosive devices to attack government infrastructure. Fortunately, those plotting the terrorist attack proved to be less than intelligent, and this ultimately led to their capture."
"Those involved in “Patriot” groups often tout their main goal as protecting Americans and their freedoms, but a new terrorist plot by three Georgia “patriots” has brought the danger of militia groups back into the national spotlight. The three men, who were arrested on Feb. 15, planned on purchasing explosive devices to attack government infrastructure. Fortunately, those plotting the terrorist attack proved to be less than intelligent, and this ultimately led to their capture."
Scott Walker Falls Apart When Asked About Incriminating Emails On Fox News
www.politicususa.com/2014/02/23/scott-walker-falls-asked-incriminating-emails-fox-news.html
"Earlier in the interview, Walker was rolling along, lying about his jobs record in Wisconsin. He was selling himself to Republicans as a potential 2016 nominee. Host Chris Wallace was playing his usual Fox News role. He asked a question that was open ended enough for Walker to explain the emails. The trouble started when Gov. Walker decided not to answer Wallace’s question about personal knowledge of illegal activities.
Scott Walker is guilty. He can hide behind the fact that he hasn’t been charged with a crime yet, but he knew that what his county workers were doing was illegal."
"Earlier in the interview, Walker was rolling along, lying about his jobs record in Wisconsin. He was selling himself to Republicans as a potential 2016 nominee. Host Chris Wallace was playing his usual Fox News role. He asked a question that was open ended enough for Walker to explain the emails. The trouble started when Gov. Walker decided not to answer Wallace’s question about personal knowledge of illegal activities.
Scott Walker is guilty. He can hide behind the fact that he hasn’t been charged with a crime yet, but he knew that what his county workers were doing was illegal."
Tea Party protesters call Charlie Crist a ‘commie whore’ who looks ‘like an AIDS victim’
www.rawstory.com/rs/2014/02/22/tea-party-protesters-call-charlie-crist-a-commie-whore-who-looks-like-an-aids-victim/
"A group of Tea Party-affiliated protesters disrupted a book signing by former Florida Gov. Charlie Crist (D), calling the former Republican a “commie whore” and shouting that he “looks like an AIDS victim"."
"A group of Tea Party-affiliated protesters disrupted a book signing by former Florida Gov. Charlie Crist (D), calling the former Republican a “commie whore” and shouting that he “looks like an AIDS victim"."
WATCH: Frank Taaffe: “The Only Time A Black Life Is Validated Is When A White Man Kills Him”
www.addictinginfo.org/2014/02/22/frank-taaffe-white-supremacist/
"Taaffe’s association with the White Voice Network, his close ties to white supremacist groups like the Aryan Nation, the Nazi party and the KKK are no longer up for debate."
"Taaffe’s association with the White Voice Network, his close ties to white supremacist groups like the Aryan Nation, the Nazi party and the KKK are no longer up for debate."
Walker-gate: Emails show Gov Scott Walker aides ran illegal vote-purging scheme
www.freakoutnation.com/2014/02/22/walker-gate-emails-show-gov-scott-walker-aides-ran-illegal-vote-purging-scheme/
"After emails from Governor Scott Walker’s top aides were scrutinized, an interesting detail or ten emerged. Walker’s top aides engaged in an illegal scheme to “cage” Wisconsin voters in the weeks ahead of the 2010 gubernatorial election.
Voter caging is essentially voter suppression. It’s an illegal campaign practice used to purge voters from the rolls, which we’ve witnessed before. Typically, minority neighborhoods are targeted."
"After emails from Governor Scott Walker’s top aides were scrutinized, an interesting detail or ten emerged. Walker’s top aides engaged in an illegal scheme to “cage” Wisconsin voters in the weeks ahead of the 2010 gubernatorial election.
Voter caging is essentially voter suppression. It’s an illegal campaign practice used to purge voters from the rolls, which we’ve witnessed before. Typically, minority neighborhoods are targeted."
Saturday, February 22, 2014
Scott Walker Emails Show Staffers At Work On Illegal Voter Caging
Scott Walker Emails Show Staffers At Work On Illegal Voter Caging
"Republicans don't really care for democracy. That's why they have no compunction about stealing votes in every way possible"
"Republicans don't really care for democracy. That's why they have no compunction about stealing votes in every way possible"
Arizona Pizzeria Takes Stand Against Bigoted Lawmakers With This AWESOME Sign!
Arizona Pizzeria Takes Stand Against Bigoted Lawmakers With This AWESOME Sign!
"The Arizona legislature sent Governor Jan Brewer a bill that would allow business owners to turn away gay and lesbian customers, employers to deny fair pay to women, and pretty much whatever they want as long as it is done in the name of religious freedom — and an Arizona pizzeria sent legislators a very clear message in response."
"The Arizona legislature sent Governor Jan Brewer a bill that would allow business owners to turn away gay and lesbian customers, employers to deny fair pay to women, and pretty much whatever they want as long as it is done in the name of religious freedom — and an Arizona pizzeria sent legislators a very clear message in response."
U.S. Approves Two Huge Solar Projects On Public Lands In California
www.thinkprogress.org/climate/2014/02/21/3319301/solar-public-lands/
"With the approval of both projects, there now are currently 50 utility-scale renewable energy projects either currently generating energy or slated to be generating energy on public lands. This is a huge number compared to the amount of renewable energy projects had been approved on public lands before Obama took office.
There were none."
"With the approval of both projects, there now are currently 50 utility-scale renewable energy projects either currently generating energy or slated to be generating energy on public lands. This is a huge number compared to the amount of renewable energy projects had been approved on public lands before Obama took office.
There were none."
Regulators question JPMorgan Chase on foreign exchange
Regulators question JPMorgan Chase on foreign exchange
"JPMorgan Chase Thursday disclosed that US and foreign regulators have sought documents on its foreign exchange trading business, amid an ongoing worldwide forex manipulation probe.
The disclosure came as the embattled US banking giant, which has paid out more than $20 billion over the past two years to settle various accusations of misbehavior, was hit with new charges over the Madoff Ponzi fund case.
The largest US bank by assets said in a securities filing that the investigations related to its foreign exchange operations "are in the early stages and the firm is cooperating with the relevant authorities."
Authorities in the United States, Britain, Switzerland, Hong Kong and Singapore have opened probes into whether a number of large banks manipulated foreign exchange trading."
"JPMorgan Chase Thursday disclosed that US and foreign regulators have sought documents on its foreign exchange trading business, amid an ongoing worldwide forex manipulation probe.
The disclosure came as the embattled US banking giant, which has paid out more than $20 billion over the past two years to settle various accusations of misbehavior, was hit with new charges over the Madoff Ponzi fund case.
The largest US bank by assets said in a securities filing that the investigations related to its foreign exchange operations "are in the early stages and the firm is cooperating with the relevant authorities."
Authorities in the United States, Britain, Switzerland, Hong Kong and Singapore have opened probes into whether a number of large banks manipulated foreign exchange trading."
Friday, February 21, 2014
Exxon CEO Comes Out Against Fracking Project Because It Will Affect His Property Values
www.thinkprogress.org/climate/2014/02/21/3316881/exxon-ceo-protests-fracking/
"As ExxonMobil’s CEO, it’s Rex Tillerson’s job to promote the hydraulic fracturing enabling the recent oil and gas boom, and fight regulatory oversight. The oil company is the biggest natural gas producer in the U.S., relying on the controversial drilling technology to extract it.
The exception is when Tillerson’s $5 million property value might be harmed. Tillerson has joined a lawsuit that cites fracking’s consequences in order to block the construction of a 160-foot water tower next to his and his wife’s Texas home."
"As ExxonMobil’s CEO, it’s Rex Tillerson’s job to promote the hydraulic fracturing enabling the recent oil and gas boom, and fight regulatory oversight. The oil company is the biggest natural gas producer in the U.S., relying on the controversial drilling technology to extract it.
The exception is when Tillerson’s $5 million property value might be harmed. Tillerson has joined a lawsuit that cites fracking’s consequences in order to block the construction of a 160-foot water tower next to his and his wife’s Texas home."
Ohio Kills Key Programs To Ease Access To The Ballot
www.thinkprogress.org/justice/2014/02/21/3320181/ohio-kills-key-programs-ease-access-ballot/
"In 2012, 59,000 Ohio voters took advantage of a six-day early voting period during which they could simultaneously register and cast a ballot, known as the “Golden Week.” The week was particularly useful to the elderly, low-income voters, and all others with limited time or means of transportation. But the Ohio legislature passed a bill this week that would eliminate that week, and a second suppressive bill that would end the successful practice of mailing absentee ballots to every registered voter. Gov. John Kasich (R) plans to sign both party-line measures, and voting rights groups are already queueing up lawsuits to challenge the new attempts to curb voting opportunities." Because republicans can't win without cheating, and they know it.
"In 2012, 59,000 Ohio voters took advantage of a six-day early voting period during which they could simultaneously register and cast a ballot, known as the “Golden Week.” The week was particularly useful to the elderly, low-income voters, and all others with limited time or means of transportation. But the Ohio legislature passed a bill this week that would eliminate that week, and a second suppressive bill that would end the successful practice of mailing absentee ballots to every registered voter. Gov. John Kasich (R) plans to sign both party-line measures, and voting rights groups are already queueing up lawsuits to challenge the new attempts to curb voting opportunities." Because republicans can't win without cheating, and they know it.
The Hidden Demographic Shifts That Are Sinking The Republican Party
www.thinkprogress.org/politics/2014/02/21/3315681/demographic-secrets-internet/
"Most people have gotten the sense that rising diversity is making life hard for the Republican Party; ditto for the rise of the notably progressive Millennial generation. But there’s a lot more to American demographics than that — and it turns out that some of the lesser-discussed demographic patterns are likely to do quite a bit of damage to Republicans’ electoral fortunes as well."
"Most people have gotten the sense that rising diversity is making life hard for the Republican Party; ditto for the rise of the notably progressive Millennial generation. But there’s a lot more to American demographics than that — and it turns out that some of the lesser-discussed demographic patterns are likely to do quite a bit of damage to Republicans’ electoral fortunes as well."
Hannity's Financial Ties To Tea Party Worse Than You Think
www.mediamatters.org/blog/2014/02/20/hannitys-financial-ties-to-tea-party-worse-than/198156
"Fox News is allowing Sean Hannity to promote the Tea Party Patriots on its airwaves even though the group is financially connected to the conservative host."
"Fox News is allowing Sean Hannity to promote the Tea Party Patriots on its airwaves even though the group is financially connected to the conservative host."
Billionaire Tim Draper's Plan For California: Break It!
Billionaire Tim Draper's Plan For California: Break It!
"Peter Theil, the oligarch PayPal made, is completely on board with the whole idea of Silicon Valley seceding, along with many other young, too-rich-too-soon techie types who toy with ideas like offshore platforms for tech businesses so they can duck taxes and regulations.
Draper has come up with an angle to snow Californians. We're all supposed to be excited at the prospect of having 10 California senators instead of 2. Never mind that he's hoping at least six of the ten would be conservative or libertarian. That needn't be mentioned."
"Peter Theil, the oligarch PayPal made, is completely on board with the whole idea of Silicon Valley seceding, along with many other young, too-rich-too-soon techie types who toy with ideas like offshore platforms for tech businesses so they can duck taxes and regulations.
Draper has come up with an angle to snow Californians. We're all supposed to be excited at the prospect of having 10 California senators instead of 2. Never mind that he's hoping at least six of the ten would be conservative or libertarian. That needn't be mentioned."
How US Evangelicals Helped Create Russia's Anti-Gay Movement
www.motherjones.com/politics/2014/02/world-congress-families-russia-gay-rights
"Meet the Fox News producer, the nightclub impresario, and the oligarchs who teamed up to write inequality into law."
"Meet the Fox News producer, the nightclub impresario, and the oligarchs who teamed up to write inequality into law."
Another Obamacare Scare Story Shot Down
Another Obamacare Scare Story Shot Down
"Another day, another Americans for Prosperity ad intended to kill a few more scared Republicans. The Kochs should be ashamed."
"Another day, another Americans for Prosperity ad intended to kill a few more scared Republicans. The Kochs should be ashamed."
The Monstrous Merger of Comcast and Time Warner Must Be Stopped - Now | Common Dreams
The Monstrous Merger of Comcast and Time Warner Must Be Stopped - Now | Common Dreams
"We must confront connected regulators and force them to pull the plug. Our democracy depends on it"
"We must confront connected regulators and force them to pull the plug. Our democracy depends on it"
Idaho Bill Would Get Rid Of All EPA Regulations In The State
www.thinkprogress.org/climate/2014/02/20/3312831/idaho-nullifying-epa-regs/
"Shepherd made it clear that it wasn’t just the Clean Water Act provision he was looking to sack."
"Shepherd made it clear that it wasn’t just the Clean Water Act provision he was looking to sack."
4 Ways Conservatives Are Fighting to Control Women's Sex Lives
www.alternet.org/sex-amp-relationships/4-ways-conservatives-are-fighting-control-womens-sex-lives
"Whether it’s Rush Limbaugh calling women who take birth control “sluts” or Mike Huckabee mansplaining why it’s actually “empowering” to deny women insurance coverage for contraception, one point remains clear: Conservatives want to enshrine religiously defined norms about sexuality into law."
"Whether it’s Rush Limbaugh calling women who take birth control “sluts” or Mike Huckabee mansplaining why it’s actually “empowering” to deny women insurance coverage for contraception, one point remains clear: Conservatives want to enshrine religiously defined norms about sexuality into law."
How ALEC helped Duke Energy block stricter coal ash rules
www.southernstudies.org/2014/02/how-alec-helped-duke-energy-block-stricter-coal-as.html
"Duke Energy is not only the nation's largest electric utility but one of its political powerhouses. Besides the millions of dollars the North Carolina-based company spends on federal and state campaign contributions and lobbying, another tool it has used to get its way in the public policy arena is the American Legislative Exchange Council."
"Duke Energy is not only the nation's largest electric utility but one of its political powerhouses. Besides the millions of dollars the North Carolina-based company spends on federal and state campaign contributions and lobbying, another tool it has used to get its way in the public policy arena is the American Legislative Exchange Council."
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