Friday, August 29, 2014

Seven Disturbing Quotes From the Koch Summit Speeches

Seven Disturbing Quotes From the Koch Summit Speeches

"It's no secret that McConnell has relied on the Koch brothers (Charles and David) in the past. The "important work" McConnell refers to is their use of dark money groups to further their political and economic interests."

Thursday, August 28, 2014

How a Mining Company Paid to Play in Walker’s Wis.

How a Mining Company Paid to Play in Walker’s Wis.

"Documents released last Friday afternoon from the John Doe investigation into potentially illegal campaign activities by the Scott Walker campaign during the recalls of 2011-2012 contained hard evidence of what many Wisconsinites have long suspected: that corporations whose sights are set on extracting resources for private gain are paying big bucks to rewrite our laws in their favor."

Women think the GOP is 'stuck in the past.' Reince Priebus tries to find the good news.

www.dailykos.com/story/2014/08/28/1325404/-Women-think-the-GOP-is-stuck-in-the-past-Reince-Priebus-tries-to-find-the-good-news
"Reince Priebus is frantically trying to spin the internal Republican polls finding that women don't like the Republican Party because it's "intolerant," "lacking in compassion," and "stuck in the past"."

Grimes: Mitch McConnell is ‘out of touch’

Koch-Sucking Republican Governors Association Caught On Video Heaping Praise On Evil Koch Brothers!

Koch-Sucking Republican Governors Association Caught On Video Heaping Praise On Evil Koch Brothers!

"What do the Koch brothers get for their campaign funding and lavish hospitality? Anything they want. And now, GOP governors are up for sale."

Bernie Sanders for president?

Microsoft’s $29.6 billion scam: Tech giant leads the way in tax-avoiding innovation

Microsoft’s $29.6 billion scam: Tech giant leads the way in tax-avoiding innovation

"More and more companies who enjoy huge benefits operating in the U.S. are trying to weasel their way out of taxes"

Not-so Labor Day weekend

GOP Study Shows Women Think GOP Policies Stink

GOP Study Shows Women Think GOP Policies Stink

"Republicans are working on their microtargeting skills this week because they've produced a study -- one they actually paid for -- advising them that women just don't care much for Republicans.
Yes, this is a problem, and it's one they're not going to get around easily. What do you expect when your party holds hearings on women's health and only invites men to testify? Or consistently votes to repeal the Affordable Care Act, which is giving a deep and lasting benefit to women, especially single women?
Or when your leaders come out and say women are a bunch of sluts who just want birth control to sleep around?"

Mitch McConnell Runs Away From Reporters After Leak Of Secret Speech To the Kochs

www.politicususa.com/2014/08/28/mitch-mcconnell-runs-reporters-leak-secret-speech-kochs.html
"In the leaked audio, McConnell admitted that the Kochs run the Republican Party, and that he will be carrying out their agenda if Republicans win the majority in the Senate. The leak of the secret speech combined with McConnell’s promise to shut down the government if Obama doesn’t do what he wants has led to McConnell literally running away from the media."

A Kentucky Objection to McConnell’s Pandering to Millionaires and Billionaires | The Nation

A Kentucky Objection to McConnell’s Pandering to Millionaires and Billionaires | The Nation

"Within hours after the revelation of McConnell promising a room full of millionaires and billionaires that he would block minimum-wage increases, the extension of unemployment benefits and student-loan debt relief, his Democratic challenger was signaling that the senator would be held to account at home."

Papantonio: Kochs' New Target – State Supreme Courts

Mitch McConnell's Campaign Manager Linked To Iowa Bribery Case

Mitch McConnell's Campaign Manager Linked To Iowa Bribery Case

"Mitch McConnell has a big problem. Even bigger than his suckup speech at the Koch summit."

GOP Candidates Thrilled To Be In Koch Bros' Deep Pockets

Secret audio nails Scott Walker! A humiliating suck-up to the Koch brothers

Secret audio nails Scott Walker! A humiliating suck-up to the Koch brothers

"it may finally backfire in Wisconsin, as voters realize their governor is a wholly owned Koch subsidiary."

Mitch McConnell’s promise to the Koch brothers

Caught on Tape: What Mitch McConnell Complained About to a Roomful of Billionaires

Caught on Tape: What Mitch McConnell Complained About to a Roomful of Billionaires

"Senate Republicans, led by McConnell, successfully filibustered a bill to increase the minimum wage to $10.10 an hour, a widely popular measure that would increase wages for at least 16.5 million Americans. Earlier in the year, McConnell also led a filibuster of a three-month extension of unemployment insurance to some 1.7 million Americans."

Mitch McConnell Promises the Kochs That Republicans Can Do Their Bidding With 51 Votes

www.politicususa.com/2014/08/27/mitch-mcconnell-promises-kochs-republicans-lot-51-votes.html
"The heavily Koch gifted Mitch McConnell (R-KY) is pretty desperate to win the Senate for Republicans. He’s got a lot on the agenda. A lot he can’t tell you about.
Republicans have to keep their real agendas secret, or no one would vote for them."

Political payoff case threatens to upset Mitch McConnell campaign

Wednesday, August 27, 2014

McConnell Disses Student Loans, Minimum Wage, And More At Koch Summit (Audio)

McConnell Disses Student Loans, Minimum Wage, And More At Koch Summit (Audio)

"Just days before he addressed the Koch brothers’ billionaire donor summit, McConnell was instrumental in blocking Senator Elizabeth Warren’s proposal to help Americans refinance their growing student loan debt."

McConnell Promises Billionaire Donors He Won’t Waste Time On ‘Gosh Darn’ Minimum Wage Increases

www.thinkprogress.org/election/2014/08/27/3476193/mitch-mcconnell-audio-minimum-wage/
"At a Koch Brothers-hosted secret strategy conference of right-wing millionaire and billionaire political activists in June, Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) promised that if his party wins control of the United States Senate this November, the Senate will not waste time on things like increasing the minimum wage for people making only about $15,000 annually. Instead, audio of his remarks obtained by The Nation reveals, his Senate will focus on repealing Wall Street reforms, environmental protections, and affordable healthcare."

Secret audio nails Mitch! Endangered McConnell busted humiliating himself on tape

Secret audio nails Mitch! Endangered McConnell busted humiliating himself on tape

"This year Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell chose to spend Father’s Day with two GOP political sugar-daddies, Charles and David Koch, at their annual retreat, this time at the lovely St. Regis Monarch Bay resort in Orange County, Calif. As befit the day, McConnell brought the love: “I want to start by thanking you, Charles and David, for the important work you’re doing. I don’t know where we’d be without you"."

Caught on Tape: What Mitch McConnell Complained About to a Roomful of Billionaires (Exclusive) | The Nation

Caught on Tape: What Mitch McConnell Complained About to a Roomful of Billionaires (Exclusive) | The Nation

"The main thrust of McConnell’s remarks to the Koch conference were about his pet issue, campaign finance, which he regards as a matter of free speech."

Tap Water Dries Out In California. Could You Be Next?

'Severe... Pervasive... Irreversible": IPCC's Devastating Climate Change Conclusions

'Severe... Pervasive... Irreversible": IPCC's Devastating Climate Change Conclusions

"Climate change is here. Climate change is now. Climate change will be significantly more dangerous, deadly, and expensive if nothing is done to correct humanity's course, but aspects of future shifts are probably already irreversible."

How A New Group Is Helping Nonprofits In West Virginia Get Solar Panels For Just $1

www.thinkprogress.org/climate/2014/08/27/3476229/shepherdstown-church-solar-project/
"A church in West Virginia just got 60 panels installed on its roof for $1, thanks to a local group that’s making it easier and cheaper for nonprofits in the state to go solar."

The growing dangers of Keystone XL

The importance of buying American tires

Tuesday, August 26, 2014

Secret Internal Document Urging Closure of California Nuclear Plant Revealed

Secret Internal Document Urging Closure of California Nuclear Plant Revealed

"In a report written last year but not made public until Monday, a former federal inspector expresses uncertainty over whether California's last operating nuclear plant, Diablo Canyon, could withstand strong shaking from nearby earthquake faults."

How Shadow Banking and Extreme Wealth Inequality Threaten Us

www.alternet.org/economy/how-shadow-banking-and-extreme-wealth-inequality-threaten-us
"The need for significant systemic change is now a mathematical fact. Corruption, greed and economic inequality have reached a peak tipping point."

6 numbers that tell you everything you need to know about America’s busted priorities

6 numbers that tell you everything you need to know about America’s busted priorities

"The super-rich feel they deserve all the tax breaks and the accumulation of wealth from the productivity of others."

Paul Ryan is the latest Republican to get an earful on immigration

Paul Ryan is the latest Republican to get an earful on immigration

"Ryan’s vote for the anti-DACA measure, and Paul’s stated support for it, are problematic because they reinforce the perceived Republican antipathy toward Hispanics. But they also make perfectly clear that all the pro-reform talk from Ryan and Paul in the aftermath of 2012 was a put-on. A few nice words about immigration reform are meaningless when they’re paired with a voting record that stands firmly athwart any progress on the issue."

Monday, August 25, 2014

Paul Ryan stars as 'Artful Dodger' during book-signing tour

www.dailykos.com/story/2014/08/25/1324478/-Paul-Ryan-stars-as-Artful-Dodger-during-book-signing-nbsp-tour
"Actually, there's not much artful in Rep. Paul Ryan's dodging of this senior lady's questions about why he wants to slash Medicare and Medicaid while giving a $5 trillion tax break to millionaires. He's just there for the photo op, dammit. And to make a few bucks off of his book. He's not there to, you know, engage with people about the policies he talks about in his book."

Gov. Christie Shifted Pension Cash To High Risk Funds, Cost Taxpayers $3.8 Billion

Gov. Christie Shifted Pension Cash To High Risk Funds, Cost Taxpayers $3.8 Billion

"Chris Christie has built up support for his presidential run by setting up an arrangement where Wall Street bankers could skim large fees off the top of pension funds, and then turned around and blamed state retirees for the shortfall. This kind of expensive nonsense is what we always get when voters are naive enough to put Republicans in charge"

Breaking: The contraception mandate benefits women

Breaking: The contraception mandate benefits women

"New research reinforces what we already know: "Avoiding pregnancy is a key component of women's health"."

Papantonio: BP Still Won’t Pay Up

Paul Ryan Goes Full Koch Head With His Cowardly Support of Government Shutdowns

www.politicususa.com/2014/08/24/paul-ryan-full-koch-head-cowardly-support-government-shutdowns.html
"Paul Ryan has long been a Koch favorite, so it isn’t a surprise that he would support government shutdowns in the name of party unity. Rep. Ryan made it clear in the same interview that if Mitt Romney doesn’t run for president in the same interview, he probably will. This is why Ryan is working so hard to rehab his one percenter image with empty talk about poverty."

Rand Paul’s latest cowardice: There’s a reason why he runs away from immigration policy

Rand Paul’s latest cowardice: There’s a reason why he runs away from immigration policy

"Rand Paul’s position on immigration is that he has no position. He’ll just go with whatever the Republican consensus is at any given moment and try to make it his own."

Papantonio: Scalia’s Son Sabotaging Wall Street Reform

Wisconsin Company Donated To Scott Walker Weeks After Questionable Tax Credit Deal Went Through

www.thinkprogress.org/economy/2014/08/25/3475222/scott-walker-tax-credit-campaign-donor/
"Less than a month after voting to give a Wisconsin furniture company a $6 million tax credit that allows it to lay off half its in-state workforce, Gov. Scott Walker (R) received $20,000 in campaign donations from the company’s leadership, a newspaper in the state reports."

Secret $700,000 Donation Has Scott Walker Scrambling to Address ‘Appearance of Corruption’ | The Nation

Secret $700,000 Donation Has Scott Walker Scrambling to Address ‘Appearance of Corruption’ | The Nation

"The documents, released as part of legal wrangling over a “John Doe” investigation into alleged fund-raising abuses during the recall elections of 2011 and 2012, have revealed both big contributions and the big concerns of a key investigator about “an appearance of corruption"."

Microsoft Leaves Conservative Advocacy Group ALEC

TX Police Won't Apologize For Terrifying Mom And Four Kids At Gunpoint

TX Police Won't Apologize For Terrifying Mom And Four Kids At Gunpoint

"When all officers hear is "black" in a suspect description…They pull over a car full of kids and their mom whose car doesn't even match the description - then hold them at gun point."

Walking While Black: Beverly Hills PD Arrests Innocent Black Man

Walking While Black: Beverly Hills PD Arrests Innocent Black Man

"And (some) white people wonder why there's so much anger and frustration?"

Dinesh D'Souza Compares Ferguson Protestors To ISIS Terrorists

Dinesh D'Souza Compares Ferguson Protestors To ISIS Terrorists

"DInesh D'Souza, a conservative pundit and convicted criminal not only used some of the stupidest anti-Obama rhetoric but drew a common thread link from the Ferguson protestors to the vicious ISIS terrorist group."

Darren Wilson’s former police force was disbanded for excessive force and corruption

Darren Wilson’s former police force was disbanded for excessive force and corruption

"The Washington Post gives additional insight into the background of the officer who killed Michael Brown"

Saturday, August 23, 2014

Media Punked By Fake 'Josie' Account Of Michael Brown Shooting

Media Punked By Fake 'Josie' Account Of Michael Brown Shooting

"This is a textbook example of how the propaganda spinners work. Put out the story, let it catch fire, make sure you've got lots of acolytes to spread it around on social media and in blog comments, and BOOM! It's something like fact, even though it's fake."

Doctors Outraged By Claims That Health Officials Ignored Residents Sickened By Drilling

www.thinkprogress.org/climate/2014/08/20/3473769/pennsylvania-health-professionals-fracking-health/
"Pennsylvania doctors, nurses, and health policy experts are calling for a statewide investigation into claims that the state Department of Health has a policy of telling its employees never to talk to residents who complain of negative health effects from fracking, according to letter sent to state Gov. Tom Corbett and other elected officials on Tuesday."

Michigan Is Taking The Radioactive Fracking Waste That Other States Rejected

www.thinkprogress.org/climate/2014/08/20/3473535/michigan-radioactive-fracking-waste/
"Michigan is accepting the radioactive fracking waste that other states’ regulations prevent them from keeping."

Oklahoma Gets Hit With 20 Earthquakes In One Day

www.thinkprogress.org/climate/2014/08/20/3473502/oklahoma-hit-with-20-earthquakes/
"Oklahoma’s Geology Survey recorded an unprecedented 20 small earthquakes across the state on Tuesday, highlighting the dramatic increase of seismic activity that has occurred there as the controversial process of hydraulic fracturing — otherwise known as fracking — has spread across the state."

North Carolina Newspapers Keep Fracking Data in the Dark

North Carolina Newspapers Keep Fracking Data in the Dark

"If North Carolina's proposed regulations are implemented, some of the state's most visited areas will be industrialized and public health may be compromised."

Thanks To The Clean Air Act, We Breathe 3 Million Fewer Tons Of Toxins Each Year

www.thinkprogress.org/climate/2014/08/22/3474535/epa-report-cleaner-air/
"Actions taken by the Environmental Protection Agency under the Clean Air Act have caused U.S. toxic air emissions to drop “significantly” — in some cases by more than half — since the law was amended in 1990, the regulatory agency told Congress in a report Thursday."

Ecologists Just Saved Miles Of Texas Coastline Using BP Oil Spill Money

www.thinkprogress.org/climate/2014/08/22/3474439/conservation-land-texas-bp/
"Twenty-seven square miles of pristine coastal land along the central Texas coastline between Houston and Corpus Christi will now be preserved for future generations after a decades-long effort by environmental groups and $34.5 million from penalties paid by BP and Transocean after the 2010 Deepwater Horizon disaster."

How the Ultra-Rich .01% Have Sucked Up Even More of America's Wealth Than You Think

www.alternet.org/economy/how-ultra-rich-01-have-sucked-even-more-americas-wealth-you-think
"The fact that the majority of households are losing so much wealth in a time of record-breaking overall wealth demonstrates how systemically corrupt the economy has become.  To begin to grasp the scale of corruption, let’s analyze how much wealth has been consolidated within the economic top 1% of the population."

The 1 percent’s devious new scheme: How CEOs are getting rich at your expense

The 1 percent’s devious new scheme: How CEOs are getting rich at your expense

"Everyone from Warren Buffett to Robert Reich is talking about a favorite Wall Street trick called stock buybacks. But what are they and what do they mean to you?"

House GOP candidate: Female senators are “undeserving bimbos in tennis shoes”

House GOP candidate: Female senators are “undeserving bimbos in tennis shoes”

"The GOP's Jim Hagedorn also derided American Indians, mocked the LGBTQ community, and insulted President Obama"

Death in the suburbs: Why Ferguson’s tragedy is America’s story

Death in the suburbs: Why Ferguson’s tragedy is America’s story

"What's happening now in Missouri isn't new, and the changing face of America is making it much more common"

Boston Brown brags about voting for Romneycare in Massachusetts to attack Obamacare in New Hampshire

www.dailykos.com/story/2014/08/22/1323873/-Boston-Brown-brags-about-voting-for-Romneycare-in-Massachusetts-to-attack-Obamacare-in-New-Hampshire
"Former Massachusetts Sen. Scott Brown says New Hampshire should vote him back into the U.S. Senate because he voted for Romneycare in Massachusetts"

This Is The Real Problem: Racist ‘Jesus Loving’ St. Louis Cop Wants To Kill Everyone

www.politicususa.com/2014/08/23/st-louis-police-officer-i-personally-jesus-christ-lord-savior-killer.html
"This officer has been suspended, but not permanently yet and before that, he was in carrying a gun and in charge of “keeping the peace”. Insert terror here."

New Emails Shed Light On Walker Campaign Amid Legal Probe

www.talkingpointsmemo.com/livewire/scott-walker-criminal-scheme-probe-emails
"Walker aides urged the campaign to take money from the billionaire Koch Brothers and casino magnate Sheldon Adelson. "Ask for $1m now," Doner told Walker in an email as he prepared to visit Adelson in Las Vegas."

Lurid McDonnell trial takes personal turn

Ferguson-Area Police Officer Suspended After 'Killer' Rant Surfaces Online

www.talkingpointsmemo.com/livewire/st-louis-county-cop-online-rant-suspended
"The officer, Dan Page, a 35-year veteran, also described himself as "a killer," according to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. CNN reported that the video appeared to have been taken in April at an event for Oath Keepers, the right-wing law enforcement group that is aligned with the Patriot movement."

Papantonio: McDonnell Trial Highlights GOP’s Corrupt Nature

Researchers: Police likely provoke protestors — not the other way around

Researchers: Police likely provoke protestors — not the other way around

"New research from the University of California, Berkeley, shows that police are often the provocateurs of violence during demonstrations."

Ferguson residents process the last two weeks

Missouri cop brands Ferguson protesters ‘rabid dogs’ in Facebook tirade

www.rawstory.com/rs/2014/08/23/missouri-cop-brands-ferguson-protesters-rabid-dogs-in-facebook-tirade/
"A police officer in Missouri was suspended Friday after he used Facebook to lash out at protesters condemning the fatal shooting of an unarmed black teenager by a white police officer."

Ablow’s ‘literal’ take on race

Russell Brand absolutely demolishes Fox News over Ferguson coverage

Russell Brand absolutely demolishes Fox News over Ferguson coverage

"Russell Brand eviscerated Fox News’ coverage of the protests in Ferguson, Missouri, on Thursday, blasting the network for its one-sidedness."

Dinesh D’Souza compares Ferguson protesters to ISIS

Dinesh D’Souza compares Ferguson protesters to ISIS

"D’Souza currently awaits sentencing for violating federal campaign finance law and lying about it–he illegally contributed $20,000 to friend and New York Senate candidate Wendy Long in 2012. D’Souza later admitted to breaking the law, which prohibits any person from making contributions in the name of others or reimbursing another person’s contribution, according the office Manhattan U.S. Attorney Preet Bharara."

Fox's Andrea Tantaros Accuses Eric Holder Of Running DOJ 'Like The Black Panthers'

Fox's Andrea Tantaros Accuses Eric Holder Of Running DOJ 'Like The Black Panthers'

"From the network that's done nothing but fan the flames from the day it became obvious that there was even a chance we were going to potentially elect our first black president."

Friday, August 22, 2014

St. Louis County officer suspended after tape of racist, violent speech surfaces

www.dailykos.com/story/2014/08/22/1323934/-St-Louis-County-officer-suspended-after-tape-of-racist-violent-speech-surfaces
"The St. Louis County police officer who was last seen on tape shoving CNN reporter Don Lemon during a Ferguson, Missouri, protest has been suspended. Not for manhandling the press and protesters on live television, but because tape has surfaced of the officer, Dan Page, giving a virulently racist and violence-peddling speech to the far-right militia group, "Oath Keepers"."

Cop Who Pushed Don Lemon Around Suspended For Oathkeepers Rant

Cop Who Pushed Don Lemon Around Suspended For Oathkeepers Rant

"Officer Dan Page was relieved of duty for his rant against women, gays, minorities, and President Obama."

Cop who pushed CNN host suspended — but not fired — after video of his racist rant emerges

www.rawstory.com/rs/2014/08/22/cop-who-pushed-cnn-host-suspended-but-not-fired-after-video-of-his-racist-rant-emerges/
"At one point, he shows the audience a picture of himself in Kenya, saying he went there to search for the country’s “undocumented president,” Barack Obama."

On the principles of good policing

Make cops wear cameras: A simple way to hold the police accountable

Make cops wear cameras: A simple way to hold the police accountable

"Do it for Michael Brown and so many others. It's time to act on this moment of consensus and enact reform"

Bam! Rush Limbaugh Loses 4 Radio Stations in 3 Weeks

www.alternet.org/media/bam-rush-limbaugh-loses-4-radio-stations-3-weeks
"Rush Limbaugh and his Hate Radio Parade pals, Beck and Hannity, are being traded in for contemporary/pop music, country music, classical music, sports and non-English speaking programs. It seems, finally, the radio stations are realizing what thousands of his sponsors have found out, the hard way. Rush Limbaugh is very bad for business. And his radio daddy, Clear Channel, is all too familiar with a failing business."

Governor Ultrasound Takes The Stand, Puts Family Values On Parade

Governor Ultrasound Takes The Stand, Puts Family Values On Parade

"McDonnell did a wonderful job of playing the sad trombone for the jury about his marriage but wasn't quite so successful when it came to explaining his acceptance of gifts, trips and airplane rides. It seems that his strategy is simply to argue that Maureen was the one who instigated all of the goodie-giving"

Texas Journalists Urge National Press To Take Perry Case More Seriously

www.mediamatters.org/blog/2014/08/21/texas-journalists-urge-national-press-to-take-p/200500
"Forrest Wilder, who is covering the story for the Texas Observer, noted in a recent piece that the criminal complaint against Perry filed in June 2013 by Texans for Public Justice was assigned to a Republican judge who then appointed a former prosecutor in the George H.W. Bush administration as special prosecutor."

Don’t be so quick to dismiss Rick Perry indictment

Tear Gas, Stun Grenades, Sound Cannons: Companies Profiting From Police Crackdowns Like Ferguson

www.alternet.org/news-amp-politics/tear-gas-stun-grenades-sound-cannons-companies-profiting-police-crackdowns
"one group of people is decidedly happy about the militarized response in Ferguson: those who work in the weapons industry. The array of police forces--the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the St. Louis county and city police and local Ferguson officers--that descended on the largely black Missouri city have used the products these corporations are selling in abundance. Tear gas, rubber bullets, smoke bombs, stun grenades, armored personnel carriers, sound cannons and high-caliber rifles have all been deployed to quell the unrest, though they have contributed to anger over police tactics."

Thursday, August 21, 2014

As Lawrence predicted, no incident report

Watch This Rant From The Officer Who Shoved Don Lemon In Ferguson

Watch This Rant From The Officer Who Shoved Don Lemon In Ferguson

"Sgt. Major Dan Page sees things in black and white. Them and us. Good and evil. There are no grays, there is no nuance. He is good. You are evil unless you believe, like he does, that all men being created equal does not mean affirmative action is good, or that black men fall into the realm of all men."

Ku Klux Klan Holding Fundraiser for Cop Who Shot and Killed Michael Brown

Ku Klux Klan Holding Fundraiser for Cop Who Shot and Killed Michael Brown

"From the What-Is-Not-Surprising-About-This Department: USA Today is reporting that a local chapter of the Missouri Ku Klux Klan is holding a fundraiser for the Ferguson police officer who shot and killed Michael Brown, an unarmed black teen."

Gov. Jay Nixon: Not taking prosecutor off Michael Brown case

Militarized cities?

Police officer who brutally pummeled homeless grandmother could face “serious charges”

Police officer who brutally pummeled homeless grandmother could face “serious charges”

"The officer who mounted and repeatedly punched a homeless grandmother in the face on the side of the I-10 Freeway in July could face “potentially serious charges” the California Highway Patrol announced on Wednesday."

Official Ku Klux Klan Party Platform IS The GOP And Tea Party Agenda

www.addictinginfo.org/2014/08/21/kkk-platform-gop-tea-party-agenda/
"You can compare the agenda of the KKK with the agenda of the republican and tea parties, to determine for yourself what, if any, differences there are between them."

Papantonio: The Tea Party’s Charity Swindle

Politically Corrected: Karl Rove & The Fact Free Zone of Fox News

School Vouchers Ruled Unconstitutional In North Carolina

School Vouchers Ruled Unconstitutional In North Carolina

"A North Carolina Superior Court judge has ruled North Carolina's radical plan to divert taxpayers' money to religious organizations is unconstitutional."

How the Largest Worker Owned Co-op in the US Lifts People Out of Poverty

How the Largest Worker Owned Co-op in the US Lifts People Out of Poverty

"Cooperatives are businesses owned and controlled by their members on the basis of one member, one vote. Given enough time, worker-owned cooperatives tend to increase wages and improve working conditions, and advocates say a local co-op generally stays where it’s founded and acts as a leadership-building force."

McDonnell turns on wife on witness stand

The Growing GOP Push To Shut Down The Government Again

www.thinkprogress.org/election/2014/08/21/3474287/senate-candidate-reiterates-support-for-shutting-down-the-government/
"Nationally, the shutdown and the uncertainty over whether lawmakers would vote to raise the country’s debt ceiling reduced economic output by 0.25 percent in the fourth quarter of 2013 and cost about 120,000 private sector jobs in the first two weeks of October."

Mitch McConnell Promises More Government Shutdowns If GOP Wins Senate Majority

Mitch McConnell Promises More Government Shutdowns If GOP Wins Senate Majority

"Mitch McConnell seems to be shooting himself in the foot with this one, since it was universally unpopular with everyone but Teabirchers."

An unfair trial in Ferguson?

Kevin Sorbo’s insane, racist Ferguson rant: Calls protesters “losers” and “animals”

Kevin Sorbo’s insane, racist Ferguson rant: Calls protesters “losers” and “animals”

"Kevin Sorbo has a few thoughts on Ferguson, and they are very, very, very bad. (I guess that’s how a B-list actor manages to stay relevant these days?) The former “Hercules” star has penned a truly insane, horrible, racist rant on Facebook, calling the protesters in Ferguson “losers” and “animals"."

Former Ferguson police officer accused of brutality is now on the City Council

www.dailykos.com/story/2014/08/20/1323240/-Former-Ferguson-police-officer-accused-of-brutality-is-now-on-the-City-Council
"Former Ferguson, Missouri police officer Kim Tihen, who was previously accused of participating in the beating of Henry Davis and then charging him with destruction of property for getting his blood on the uniforms of the four officers involved, has had a new job since 2012"

‘Video changes everything’

Rewrite: Bad police reporting by the NYTimes

Conservatives to media: Stop covering Ferguson

www.dailykos.com/story/2014/08/20/1323222/-Conservatives-to-media-Stop-covering-Ferguson#
"There are a million different reasons that's crazy, but here's the most fundamental one: The only reason cops are arresting reporters in Ferguson is that cops there want to arrest reporters. It's not like these reporters are going on looting sprees—they're just doing their jobs. And yes, it's news when reporters get arrested for doing their jobs."

Ku Klux Klan Heading To Ferguson To Escalate Their Long-Awaited Race War

www.politicususa.com/2014/08/21/ku-klux-klan-heading-ferguson-escalate-race-war.html
"They also have the express support of Republicans and conservative media who have done the heavy lifting of assisting the Klan’s recruitment efforts by demonizing African Americans."

Actor Kevin Sorbo: Ferguson unrest let black protesters be the ‘animals’ they ‘truly are’

www.rawstory.com/rs/2014/08/21/actor-kevin-sorbo-ferguson-unrest-let-black-protesters-be-the-animals-they-truly-are/
"Conservative actor Kevin Sorbo ranted on Facebook this week that African-American protesters in Ferguson had shown themselves to be “animals” and “losers” following the death of slain teen Michael Brown."

Racist Much, Columbia Tribune?

Racist Much, Columbia Tribune?

"Singling out a couple of knuckleheads and then using them as representative of an entire group? Yeah, racism."

Holder wields power to reform local police, eyes Ferguson

Missouri’s tortured history of racism: Why the inferno in Ferguson is no surprise

Missouri’s tortured history of racism: Why the inferno in Ferguson is no surprise

"For decades the state has been a hot bed for the country's most virulent racists, from neo-Nazis to the KKK"

AG Holder pays visit to Ferguson, MO

Relatively peaceful protests in Ferguson

Officer ‘Go F*ck Yourself’ Threatens To Kill Ferguson Protestor

Its racism, not “principled conservatism”: The South, civil rights, GOP myths — and the roots of Ferguson

Its racism, not “principled conservatism”: The South, civil rights, GOP myths — and the roots of Ferguson

"So, there’s nothing new in the claim that “principled conservatism” has nothing to do with race.  If you want to be a true believer, it’s the very first lie that you have to believe."

Celebrities draw attention to Ferguson

4 Worst Right-Wing Reactions to Michael Brown's Killing and the Protests

www.alternet.org/4-worst-right-wing-reactions-michael-browns-killing-and-protests
"Conservative media wasted no time making racist, imbecilic comments about Ferguson."

Laura Ingraham Attacks Ferguson Protestors

How Fox News silenced Obama on race

How Fox News silenced Obama on race

"But wait, Fox News can stop the president from speaking his mind? The sounds preposterous and defeatist, right? But when you add up six years worth of unhinged racial fear mongering from the conservative press and portions of the Republican Party, when you acknowledge that reality, you begin to understand the hesitation."

New Information Might Help Send Rick Perry Straight to Prison

www.forwardprogressives.com/new-information-might-help-send-rick-perry-straight-prison/
"Because nothing at all sounds corrupt about a governor using their power to try to force the resignation of someone investigating his office for corruption, knowing that he would be able to personally handpick whomever would take over the investigation. Na, that doesn’t sound corrupt at all."

Wednesday, August 20, 2014

More government shutdowns! McConnell admits what GOP Senate will wreak

More government shutdowns! McConnell admits what GOP Senate will wreak

"Mitch McConnell reveals his plan for a Republican Senate is to take hostages and bring back crisis government"

Joe The Plumber: Ferguson Residents Would 'Scatter Like Cockroaches' If Ferguson Held Job Fair

Joe The Plumber: Ferguson Residents Would 'Scatter Like Cockroaches' If Ferguson Held Job Fair

"As Steve M. noted, they just held a job fair in June with thousands turning out and the city held an impromptu job fair this week after another shooting in north St. Louis. Who needs facts when it's so much easier to post racist images like the ones above on your Facebook page?"

Cop In Ferguson To Protestors: 'I Will F**king Kill You' (VIDEO)

www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/08/20/ferguson-cop-i-will-kill-you_n_5695748.html
"The St. Ann Police Department has released a statement saying the officer involved in threatening protestors has been "suspended indefinitely"."

US sailors prepare for fresh legal challenge over Fukushima radiation

www.theguardian.com/environment/2014/aug/20/us-navy-sailors-legal-challenge-fukushima-radiation-tepco
"$1bn lawsuit accuses Tepco of failing to avoid the accident and of lying about radiation levels that have caused health problems to themselves and their families stationed in Japan"

The Con Artistry of Charter Schools

The Con Artistry of Charter Schools

"Riding the wave of pro-privatization, right-wing propaganda that public schools have "failed" and need to be turned over to private business operators, charter school lobbyists, working with ALEC, have been able to get legislation passed to allow them to open schools all over the country that take public funds but skip the kind of oversight that regular public schools must submit to."

Bobby Jindal Has Perfectly Demonstrated How Trickle-Down Economics Is A Scam

www.forwardprogressives.com/bobby-jindal-has-perfectly-demonstrated-how-trickle-down-economics-is-scam/
"Last year, Governor Jindal made the remark that President Obama could learn something from Louisiana as part of a speech he made ahead of President Obama’s trip to New Orleans. Perhaps he’s right, we can all learn something from Louisiana and Bobby Jindal – and that is trickle-down economics is nothing more than a massive scam. "

Anti-Immigrant Groups Are Sabotaging This Man’s Business Because He Helped A Family Fleeing Violence

www.thinkprogress.org/immigration/2014/08/20/3471370/man-sheltering-undocumented-family-receives-death-threats/
"But the decision to take in the family has also made him the target of threatening emails, falsified Yelp reviews, phone calls, and death threats by anti-immigrant activists."

Central American Kids We Sent Back Were Killed After Return

Central American Kids We Sent Back Were Killed After Return

"Because wingers don't have a conscience to speak of, I'm sure this won't bother them but it sure grinds the hell out of me."

Meet The Holocaust Survivor Arrested In Brown Protest

Meet The Holocaust Survivor Arrested In Brown Protest

"A human rights activist and Holocaust survivor, Epstein had been following the unrest in nearby Ferguson, where an unarmed black teenager, Michael Brown, was shot and killed by police on August 9. Ever since, tensions have escalated"

Must-see morning clip: David Letterman delivers moving tribute to Robin Williams, his friend of 38 years

Must-see morning clip: David Letterman delivers moving tribute to Robin Williams, his friend of 38 years

"A week after the passing of beloved actor and comedian Robin Williams, “Late Show” host David Letterman paid tribute to his friend of 38 years. The 10-minute segment includes entertaining stories and tearful moments."

Conservative Senator Can’t Stand Fox News: ‘They’re Totally Not Fair And Totally Not Balanced’ (VIDEO)

www.addictinginfo.org/2014/08/20/conservative-senator-cant-stand-fox-news-video/
"Fox News claims every day to be “fair and balanced” in its coverage of the news. As we all know and have consistently pointed out, that claim is a blatant lie since Fox is basically the propaganda arm of the Republican Party."

How Conservatives Co-Opt & Pollute Language

www.samuel-warde.com/2014/08/conservatives-co-opt-pollute-language/
"The reason conservative talking heads promote this ridiculous propaganda is so their herds of followers stay hateful, fearful and angry."

Republican House hopeful Mark Walker: 'If I was given a chance to impeach Obama ... yes, I would'

www.dailykos.com/story/2014/08/13/1321375/-Republican-House-hopeful-Mark-Walker-If-I-was-given-a-chance-to-impeach-Obama-yes-I-would
"This, folks, is your modern Republican Party. Walker is the kind of crazy-uncle candidate that the John Boehners of the world are desperate to keep locked in the attic. But tea party anger has burst into flames in more corners of the country than the GOP's beleaguered fire department can possibly contain."

Fox News is the Fear-Mongering Propaganda Machine That’s Dividing This Nation

www.forwardprogressives.com/fox-news-fear-mongering-propaganda-machine-thats-dividing-nation/
"I didn’t even get into how fact-checking site Politifact found that, in the comments they’ve investigated from the network, Fox News only told the truth 18 percent of the time. Or when one of their contributors, Lauren Ashburn, said that Fox News shouldn’t be held accountable for conspiracy theories or misinformation pushed on the network."

'This is the Story of Power in this Country': Ferguson, Institutionalized Racism and the Militarization of Police

'This is the Story of Power in this Country': Ferguson, Institutionalized Racism and the Militarization of Police

"Only it didn’t just take Ferguson. It took years of violent arrests. Exposés that revealed small towns being patrolled by tanks and big cities controlled by force. Rampant and institutionalized violations of citizens’ human and constitutional rights. Protests and demonstrations around the country suffocated by intimidation, brutality, and weapons only ever seen in warfare."

Organization, communication change protest tone in Ferguson

Cooler heads prevail in late night Ferguson protests

The Ferguson Effect on Our Great-Grandchildren

The Ferguson Effect on Our Great-Grandchildren

"That's why it's so important that we do everything possible to protect future generations by making the world work well today."

Student protestors offer their perspective

Brown shooting location a ‘sad scene’

Ray Kelly Thinks Police In Ferguson Are Out Of Hand

www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/08/19/ray-kelly-ferguson_n_5691739.html?cps=gravity
"even Ray Kelly thinks police in Ferguson, Missouri, have gone way too far in their handling of the turmoil after the death of 18-year-old Michael Brown, who was shot and killed by police officer Darren Wilson last week."

Tuesday, August 19, 2014

Right wing’s radically different narrative

Media and the militarized police machine

Experts: Police Shootings Point To Need For 'Systemic Change In Policing'

Experts: Police Shootings Point To Need For 'Systemic Change In Policing'

"Let's hope that the local law enforcement community re-thinks their budgeting as well as the role of law enforcement. Back to basics with "protect and serve" would be a good place to start, and it's a lot easier to justify spending money on new training methods and community outreach than training cops as machine gunners driving surplus Army tanks, even if the tanks and guns were actually free."

Police ‘shouldn’t be investigating themselves’

There is so much wrong with this cop’s victim-blaming screed

There is so much wrong with this cop’s victim-blaming screed

"Cop Sunil Dutta exemplifies what is wrong with police in the U.S."

National push to arm cops with cameras

Journalists in the crosshairs in Ferguson

They are no longer police: Why Ferguson reminds us that America is not exceptional

They are no longer police: Why Ferguson reminds us that America is not exceptional

"The police are no longer here to protect us. They are a hyper-militarized militia that provokes and antagonizes"

One Cop's Advice: Submit To Us Always And No One Gets Hurt

One Cop's Advice: Submit To Us Always And No One Gets Hurt

"This LAPD advisor confirms why people don't trust the police."

Getty Photojournalist Scott Olsen Arrested In Ferguson For 'Refusing To Obey'

Getty Photojournalist Scott Olsen Arrested In Ferguson For 'Refusing To Obey'

"Getty Images photojournalist Scott Olson was arrested Monday for refusing to stay in a designated "media pen" that the police set up even though the rest of the area was open to the public."

Capt. Ron Johnson's Emotional Apology To Family Of Michael Brown

Watch: Capt. Ron Johnson's Emotional Apology To Family Of Michael Brown

Watch: Capt. Ron Johnson's Emotional Apology To Family Of Michael Brown

"Captain Ron Johnson delivered an apology and statement of solidarity to the family of Michael Brown today that should be preserved for the ages."

Fox News Panel Outrageously Tries to Exploit Chaos in Ferguson to Stir Up Fear About Obama (Video)

www.forwardprogressives.com/fox-news-panel-outrageously-tries-exploit-chaos-ferguson-stir-fear-obama-video/
"This was just another embarrassing display of fear mongering by the fine folks over at Fox News."

Last Week Tonight with John Oliver: Ferguson, MO and Police Militarization (HBO)

John Oliver Takes On Paternalism, Militarization In Ferguson

John Oliver Takes On Paternalism, Militarization In Ferguson

"He hits the nail on the head. Again."

Another eyewitness and more cellphone video from the scene of the Michael Brown shooting

www.dailykos.com/story/2014/08/18/1322604/-Another-eyewitness-and-more-cell-phone-video-from-Michael-Brown-shooting
"Yet another eyewitness has come forward in the Michael Brown shooting. Piaget Crenshaw appeared on CNN to discuss the events she saw unfold live from her apartment. She also said the police confiscated her phone and she's upset the video hasn't been released."

10 Things You Need to Know About Ferguson

www.alternet.org/ferguson?page=0%2C0
"As the tense situation on the ground quickly evolves, here are 10 things you should know"

Ferguson police continue arresting and attacking media

www.dailykos.com/story/2014/08/19/1322938/-Ferguson-police-continue-arresting-and-attacking-media
"Obviously, the most tragic consequence of their savage brutality was the slaying of unarmed teen Mike Brown, but the police in Ferguson have also tried to light the First Amendment on fire, arresting and attacking reporter after reporter in an attempt to intimidate the media from covering their world."

Ferguson Cops Busted? New Video Seems To Show Brown Paying For Cigarillos (Video)

Ferguson Cops Busted? New Video Seems To Show Brown Paying For Cigarillos (Video)

"Ferguson police's attempts to demonize Michael Brown may have hit a small snag."

Examiner: Michael Brown could have been shot from the back

Brown autopsy assistant discusses results

Understanding testimony from witnesses

“This doesn’t make any sense”: Jake Tapper highlights the utter absurdity of Ferguson police

“This doesn’t make any sense”: Jake Tapper highlights the utter absurdity of Ferguson police

"CNN's Jake Tapper reported on a stark scene in Ferguson, Mo. last night"

CNN's Don Lemon Pushed Off Sidewalk By Cop Policing Protest

CNN's Don Lemon Pushed Off Sidewalk By Cop Policing Protest

"By the way, these were St. Louis County police."

Jake Tapper Amazed At Militarized Police Presence: 'Nothing Merits This'

Jake Tapper Amazed At Militarized Police Presence: 'Nothing Merits This'

"Jake Tapper just got a taste of reality on the streets of Ferguson."

Papantonio: Character Assassination Begins on Michael Brown

Ferguson Cop’s Threat To Shoot Reporter Is Caught On Tape

Why Cops Lie

Why Cops Lie

"The natural tendency to lie makes quota systems and financial incentives that reward the police for the sheer numbers of people stopped, frisked or arrested especially dangerous."

Tensions mount as Ferguson heads into new night of protests

Strained relations undercut St. Louis County prosecutor

The Demilitarization Of Law Enforcement Is Something Both Sides Can Agree On

www.forwardprogressives.com/the-demilitarization-of-law-enforcement-is-something-both-sides-can-agree-on/
"In closing, when you have both the extremely conservative Gun Owners of America group (which is to the right of the NRA, if you can believe that) and the ACLU both agreeing that local police “look more like special forces units than normal police officers,” then it is indeed, time to put our differences aside and work on the demilitarization of law enforcement."

Spineless frauds exposed by Ferguson: Where pols really stand on militarized cops

Spineless frauds exposed by Ferguson: Where pols really stand on militarized cops

"Here's the real truth about our government and warrior cops -- and why this new bipartisan consensus may go nowhere"

Sunday, August 17, 2014

Congress Gets A Raise, But Sad Day For You.

Lewis Black Destroys Rush Limbaugh Over His Disgusting Comments About Robin Williams

www.forwardprogressives.com/lewis-black-destroys-rush-limbaugh-disgusting-robin-williams-comments/
"Rush Limbaugh has made a career out of being one of the most repulsive individuals in the conservative media. The fact that he’s made millions peddling his bottom-feeding garbage is a true testament to the real values for which conservatives stand."

What Robin Williams’ Parkinson’s Diagnosis Teaches Us About Depression

www.thinkprogress.org/health/2014/08/14/3471433/robin-williams-parkinsons/
"On Thursday, Robin Williams’ wife disclosed that the actor was in the early stages of Parkinson’s Disease when he took his own life earlier this week."

How the New Monopoly Capitalism Will Crush You to Smithereens

www.alternet.org/economy/how-new-monopoly-capitalism-will-crush-you-smithereens
"Something wicked has crept into American society, something that many hoped was left back in the dustbins of the 19th century. We’re talking about monopoly, the ogre that screams capitalism run amok. Monopolies, or near-monopolies, as are most common in America, rise up through a lack of competition. When one or a handful of players dominate the marketplace, get ready for higher prices, low-quality products, and crap wages for you and me."

Big oil has been illegally using diesel fuel and lying about it

Big oil has been illegally using diesel fuel and lying about it

"Between 2010 and July 2014 at least 351 wells were fracked using diesel fuels without a permit, a new report found"

This Is The Face Of Fracking Lies & Propaganda

5 Worst Right-Wing Moments This Week: Limbaugh Set to Drown in Own Toxic Spewage

www.alternet.org/tea-party-and-right/5-worst-right-wing-moments-week-limbaugh-set-drown-own-toxic-spewage
"Rush Limbaugh’s toxicity reaches new heights with Robin Williams comments."

McDonnell corruption trial? Pat Robertson blames Obama

How We Can End Militarized Policing

www.alternet.org/activism/how-we-can-end-militarized-policing
"This is a teachable moment for the nation that presents an opportunity to transform policing so it serves the people."

These 3 Teenagers Created An App To Hold Police Accountable

www.thinkprogress.org/justice/2014/08/16/3472097/police-brutality-app/
"Three high school students have developed a mobile app to hold police accountable in communities nationwide."

Who Voted Against Militarizing Local Police-- Who Was Just Fine With It?

Who Voted Against Militarizing Local Police-- Who Was Just Fine With It?

"If you've been horrified by the extreme police overreaction in #Ferguson, this vote tally's worth keeping in mind when you go to the polls in November."

Saturday, August 16, 2014

Yes, Richard Nixon Was A Traitor

Yes, Richard Nixon Was A Traitor

"Nixon's interference with these negotiations violated President John Adams's 1797 Logan Act, banning private citizens from intruding into official government negotiations with a foreign nation."

GOP’s post-racial fantasy: Secession, delusion and the truth about America’s most hateful dividers

GOP’s post-racial fantasy: Secession, delusion and the truth about America’s most hateful dividers

"This is not just the language of racism—a broad, often nebulous term. It’s the language of theocratic white nationalism–which is a great deal more specific."

Jimmy John's With a Side of Wage Theft?

Jimmy John's With a Side of Wage Theft?

"Former Jimmy John's workers last week filed a class action lawsuit in federal court charging that the sandwich chain famed for "dirt cheap" prices is stealing workers' wages as a matter of nation-wide policy."

Kochs Are The Kiss Of Death In Michigan

Kochs Are The Kiss Of Death In Michigan

"Imagine that: When people know the Kochs want someone elected, they don't want them!"

Solar Power Gets Hot, Hot, Hot

Solar Power Gets Hot, Hot, Hot

"The solar industry now employs at least 142,000 people in the United States. Solar workers outnumber coal miners in this country. In Texas, solar supports more jobs than ranching and California has more solar workers than actors. Wind jobs are growing fast too. They hit a total of 80,000 last year.
Sorry, ALEC. Even the reddest states can’t ignore this rising tide of green jobs."

GOP’s 30-year spin job is over: Why we are not a center-right nation

GOP’s 30-year spin job is over: Why we are <em>not</em> a center-right nation

"In short, this “average American” holds views that line up almost exactly with a center-left political ticket"

The Top 10 Myths About Social Security

The Top 10 Myths About Social Security

"Social Security myths spread by critics of the program."

Friday, August 15, 2014

Rick Perry Indicted For Abuse Of Power

Rick Perry Indicted For Abuse Of Power

"It doesn't pay to threaten public corruption investigators with defunding when you're a public official, as Rick Perry has now discovered"

All the GOP Candidates Kiss the Ring Of the Radical Christian Right

www.alternet.org/news-amp-politics/all-gop-candidates-kiss-ring-radical-christian-right
"Reed appeared to be finished in 2004 when email exchanges with lobbyist Jack Abramoff revealed he was directly involved in the theft of $44 million from American Indian tribes that sent Abramoff to prison. Reed is resilient: today, he claims more than 800,000 supporters of the nonprofit organization he launched in 2009."

IA-Sen: Joni Ernst (R) Spouted Glenn Beck's 'Agenda 21' Conspiracy Theory

www.dailykos.com/story/2014/08/13/1321270/-IA-Sen-Joni-Ernst-R-Spouted-Glenn-Beck-s-Agenda-21-Conspiracy-Theory
"Yep, the more and more we know about Ernst, the more of a nut we realize she truly is."

Sarah Palin Embarrasses Herself

Confidential Memo: Former Koch Group Insider Fears the Tea Party Is Fading

www.motherjones.com/politics/2014/08/koch-tea-party-arkansas-dark-money-afp
"An ex-state director for Americans for Prosperity bemoans the decline of the tea party movement."

The Loony Bin Known as Boehner's House of Representatives Is Messing Up Just About Everything

www.alternet.org/news-amp-politics/loony-bin-known-boehners-house-representatives-messing-just-about-everything
"These ideological zealots are nutty, but they're clogging the roadway, preventing any of the progress that America desperately needs."

Pap Attack: The Corporate Death Grip on America

Christie's Campaign Team Was In Close Contact With Pension Board

Christie's Campaign Team Was In Close Contact With Pension Board

"It raises the prospect of action from the Securities and Exchange Commission, which is tasked with enforcing pay-to-play laws."

The Koch Plan to Destroy the Economy

GOP lawsuit: Wall Street has a Constitutional right to corrupt politicians

GOP lawsuit: Wall Street has a Constitutional right to corrupt politicians

"Wall Street is one of the biggest sources of funding for presidential campaigns, and many of the Republican Party’s potential 2016 contenders are governors, from Chris Christie of New Jersey and Rick Perry of Texas to Bobby Jindal of Louisiana and Scott Walker of Wisconsin. And so, last week, the GOP filed a federal lawsuit aimed at overturning the pay-to-play law that bars those governors from raising campaign money from Wall Street executives who manage their states’ pension funds."

GOP Seeks to Further Weaken Campaign Finance Laws

GOP Seeks to Further Weaken Campaign Finance Laws

"Republican lawmakers hoping to rake in more campaign cash from Wall Street are challenging a U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission rule that limits the amount of money financiers can give to governors and state officials."

Ferguson an object lesson in bad policing

How Police In Ferguson Should Have Handled Crowd Control

www.thinkprogress.org/justice/2014/08/14/3471110/how-police-in-ferguson-should-have-handled-crowd-control/
"In a 2012 article for the FBI Law Enforcement Bulletin, Masterson laid out the conclusions reached by law enforcement agencies around the world who’d researched the best way for police to interact with a crowd that has the potential to become disruptive. The answer: police should do more or less the exact opposite of what they have done in Ferguson."

#NMOS14: Vigils And Protests In Cities Across The Country Honor Victims Of Police Violence

#NMOS14: Vigils And Protests In Cities Across The Country Honor Victims Of Police Violence

"The protests that started in Ferguson, MO have now spread nationwide."

Alderman arrested in Ferguson protests speaks out

Social Media Shows Major Shift In Atmosphere at Ferguson Demonstrations (Images/Videos)

www.addictinginfo.org/2014/08/15/social-media-shows-major-shift-in-atmosphere-at-ferguson-demonstrations-imagesvideos/
"The night of August, 13th produced some of the most shocking stories that were spread nearly instantaneously across the globe via twitter and live streamers. After these stories were told, including the arrest of two journalists and a sitting Alderman the tear gas slipped away into the night leaving people following the developments wondering what violence might come from a police state gone too far."

Events in Ferguson shift to national story

Long road of healing ahead for Ferguson

Sen. Elizabeth Warren: 'This Is America, Not A War Zone'

Sen. Elizabeth Warren: 'This Is America, Not A War Zone'

"Senator Elizabeth Warren tweeted out her displeasure at what's been happening in St. Louis and joined the chorus of outrage over the actions that are taking place in Ferguson, Mo."

Local politicians late to address Ferguson protests

To Terrify and Occupy: How the Excessive Militarization of the Police Is Turning Cops Into Counterinsurgents

To Terrify and Occupy: How the Excessive Militarization of the Police Is Turning Cops Into Counterinsurgents

"These former policemen and law enforcement officials understand that police officers shouldn't be breaking down any citizen's door at 3 a.m. armed with AR-15s and flashbang grenades in search of a small amount of drugs, while an MRAP idles in the driveway. The anti-militarists, however, are in the minority right now. And until that changes, violent paramilitary police raids will continue to break down the doors of nearly 1,000 American households a week."

Chris Hayes reports from Ferguson, MO

Anonymous To ID Michael Brown’s Killer – Already Has Paralyzed Ferguson

www.addictinginfo.org/2014/08/14/anonymous-ferguson/
"The actions of the Ferguson police department can not be tolerated in civil society. The police are public servants, not lords or soldiers. The demilitarization of the United States must begin."

What a difference a day makes

KKK Fundraises For Cop Who Shot Michael Brown

KKK Fundraises For Cop Who Shot Michael Brown

"Who ever said we lived in a post-racial society?"

The facts from Ferguson

Ferguson Faith Leaders Take To The Streets, March With Protestors

www.thinkprogress.org/home/2014/08/14/3471361/faith-groups-ferguson/
"A group of local clergy and religious faithful took to the streets of Ferguson, Missouri on Thursday evening, joining a mass of peaceful protestors to vent frustration over the fatal shooting of an unarmed teen on August 9."

Ferguson Reaction Includes Rand Paul, Ted Cruz STUNNERS

St. Louis Cops To Be Removed From Ferguson

St. Louis Cops To Be Removed From Ferguson

"The governor of Missouri will reportedly relieve St. Louis County law enforcement from policing the ongoing demonstrations in the town of Ferguson, paving the way for possible state or federal intervention."

Ferguson Update: Journalist Arrested, Eyewitness Interviewed

Militarized Police Attack Citizens, Journalists In Chaotic Night

Two National Reporters Arrested, Roughed Up By Ferguson Police - Updated

Two National Reporters Arrested, Roughed Up By Ferguson Police - Updated

"After they realized they were national reporters, they were released. "

Michael Brown's Preliminary Autopsy Report States Obvious, Stalls Full Disclosure

Michael Brown's Preliminary Autopsy Report States Obvious, Stalls Full Disclosure

"St. Louis County Police have confirmed that Michael Brown died as the result of "several gunshot wounds." The report does not specify how many gunshot wounds there were, nor where they were located on the 18-year old's body."

Papantonio: Dixieland Ninja Cops In Ferguson

Thursday, August 14, 2014

Yahoo News Pretends Wingnut Joni Ernst Isn't An Extremist

Yahoo News Pretends Wingnut Joni Ernst Isn't An Extremist

"Joni Ernst is running for Tom Harkin's Senate seat in Iowa, and she is anything but moderate. She's a hand-picked Koch extremist who is being handled by the Koch machine, but according to Yahoo! News, she's really a moderate who just tilted to the right for the primaries."

For youth, the South is hostile territory

www.southernstudies.org/2014/08/for-youth-the-south-is-hostile-territory.html
"Of the 10 states with the best conditions for children and youth, only one was in the South -- Virginia, which came in at number 10. But of the 10 states with the worst conditions for youth, seven were in the South. From rock-bottom up, the 10 worst states for young people turned out to be Mississippi, District of Columbia, Florida, Arkansas, New Mexico, Arizona, South Carolina, Alabama, Georgia, and Kentucky."

Tea Party leader asks God to “be violent against” GOP establishment in opening prayer

Tea Party leader asks God to “be violent against” GOP establishment in opening prayer

"When it comes to saying crazy things, it’s pretty hard to Mississippi Tea Partyer Tricia Raymond’s claim that controversial right-wing journalist Charles Johnson was sent by God to save the United States. Unfortunately, Mississippi Tea Party Chairman Roy Nicholson proved on Monday that he was more than up to the task."

American Apartheid: White Majority Districts Represented By 95% Of US House Republicans

American Apartheid: White Majority Districts Represented By 95% Of US House Republicans

"This situation has been accomplished through gerrymandering. By seizing state legislatures during the tea party wave of 2010, Republicans were able to rearrange congressional districts and make it possible for Obama to win Pennsylvania by 5 points while only five Democrats won in the state's 18 US House races."

GOP’s shady “news” websites: Republicans get into the propaganda game

GOP’s shady “news” websites: Republicans get into the propaganda game

"Greg Walden's NRCC set up fake websites to fool people into reading GOP propaganda"

Likely Congressman Opposes MLK Day, Supports ‘Don’t Say Gay,’ Thinks Women Don’t Want Equal Pay

www.thinkprogress.org/election/2014/08/13/3470728/glenn-grothman-controversial/
"Wisconsin Republicans may not have gotten the message the RNC has been pushing about how to avoid offending women and minorities."

GOP launches fake news sites to trick voters and blast Dems

GOP launches fake news sites to trick voters and blast Dems

"This isn’t the first time this cycle that the NRCC has pulled a move like this, either. Earlier last year, they launched a series of fake websites intended to look like they represented a Democratic candidate. Public outcry compelled them to abandon these forgeries, but evidently the NRCC still likes the strategy, overall."

Tea Party quack’s new target: Sal Russo’s plan for Silicon Valley

Tea Party quack’s new target: Sal Russo’s plan for Silicon Valley

"Tea Party Express's Sal Russo has made a killing ripping off right-wingers. But this is his most audacious task yet"

Tea Party official opens Miss. meeting with prayer asking for violence against Republicans

www.rawstory.com/rs/2014/08/13/tea-party-official-opens-miss-meeting-with-prayer-asking-for-violence-against-republicans/
"Johnson spoke out against mainstream media reporters and defended McDaniel supporters who conspired to break into a nursing home to photograph Cochran’s ailing wife."

Fox pundit’s disgusting Michelle Obama remarks: First lady “needs to drop a few”

Fox pundit’s disgusting Michelle Obama remarks: First lady “needs to drop a few”

"Keith Ablow, Fox News’ psychiatry contributor and adult baby, was on Outnumbered today to talk about First Lady Michelle Obama’s various health campaigns and to spew general hate."

How Right-Wing Media Talk About Michelle Obama's Looks

Doctor on Fox News Disgustingly Implies Michelle Obama is Fat, ‘Needs to Drop a Few’ (Video)

www.forwardprogressives.com/doctor-fox-news-disgustingly-implies-michelle-obama-fat-needs-drop-video/
"But this is just more of the same slander the right has been lobbing toward this family since Barack Obama won the Democratic nomination for president in 2008. Because while the four female co-hosts didn’t go along with Ablow’s disgusting comments, at the start of the segment they were clearly mocking the First Lady’s efforts to fight childhood obesity by encouraging healthier meals in our public schools. It’s just more of what we’ve all come to expect from Fox News and the right-wing media. Childish, immature, juvenile level insults meant to pander to the most ignorant among us. And this segment was a prime example of all of that."

Super Bowl Champion Swats Away Fox Host's Criticism Of Michelle Obama

www.talkingpointsmemo.com/livewire/russell-wilson-neil-cavuto
"Wilson appeared on the cable news channel to promote a United Way program aimed at stamping out childhood hunger and, from the beginning, Fox host Neil Cavuto tried his best to pit the Super Bowl champion against First Lady Michelle Obama."

Fox News Host Tells Michelle Obama To Lose Weight

Fox News host brings Michelle Obama hate to Russell Wilson interview

www.dailykos.com/story/2014/08/12/1321047/-Fox-News-host-brings-Michelle-Obama-hate-to-Russell-Wilson-interview
"Quick, can you tie an interview with Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson to an irrational hatred for the First Lady? No? Well then I guess you can't be on Fox News."

Robin Williams: A History in 15 Jokes

www.rollingstone.com/tv/features/robin-williams-a-history-in-15-jokes-20140813
"From a pre-Mork set to a drop-in appearance on 'Set List' last year, here's a stem-to-stern sampling of what this comedian did best: crack people up."