Tuesday, April 15, 2014
How a Comcast-Time Warner Merger Will Make Your Cable and Internet Worse and More Expensive
www.alternet.org/news-amp-politics/merger-works-will-make-you-seethe-when-youre-paying-your-cable-bill
"A closer look at TWC-Comcast reveals their claim of "substantial public interest benefits" is anything but."
"A closer look at TWC-Comcast reveals their claim of "substantial public interest benefits" is anything but."
Monday, April 14, 2014
Republicans are Trying to Mix the Ideologies of Jesus Christ with an Atheist and That Doesn’t Make Any Sense
www.forwardprogressives.com/republicans-trying-mix-ideologies-jesus-christ-atheist-doesnt-make-sense/
"They want to call themselves the party of “Christian values,” while supporting economic policies based on the beliefs of a woman who lived her life in direct contrast to Christianity."
"They want to call themselves the party of “Christian values,” while supporting economic policies based on the beliefs of a woman who lived her life in direct contrast to Christianity."
Devastating New Poll: GOP In Danger Of Losing House In November
Devastating New Poll: GOP In Danger Of Losing House In November
"A newly released poll from Public Policy Polling shows that the GOP is by no means assured of retaining control of the House after the mid-term elections next fall. Apparently, a major factor in turning the electorate against many Republican incumbents was their vote to shut the government down last October."
"A newly released poll from Public Policy Polling shows that the GOP is by no means assured of retaining control of the House after the mid-term elections next fall. Apparently, a major factor in turning the electorate against many Republican incumbents was their vote to shut the government down last October."
Politicians Are Beginning to Realize Voter Suppression Is a Bad Idea
Politicians Are Beginning to Realize Voter Suppression Is a Bad Idea
"As Wisconsin became the latest state to restrict voter access, state Republican Senator Dale Schultz condemned his party for trying to suppress the vote. “I’m a guy who understands and appreciates what we should be doing in order to make sure every vote counts, every vote is legitimate. But that fact is, it ought to be abundantly clear to everybody in this state that there is no massive voter fraud. The only thing that we do have in this state is we have long lines of people who want to vote. And it seems to me that we should be doing everything we can to make it easier, to help these people get their votes counted"."
"As Wisconsin became the latest state to restrict voter access, state Republican Senator Dale Schultz condemned his party for trying to suppress the vote. “I’m a guy who understands and appreciates what we should be doing in order to make sure every vote counts, every vote is legitimate. But that fact is, it ought to be abundantly clear to everybody in this state that there is no massive voter fraud. The only thing that we do have in this state is we have long lines of people who want to vote. And it seems to me that we should be doing everything we can to make it easier, to help these people get their votes counted"."
Manhattan DA Opens Investigation Into Port Authority, Christie Administration
Manhattan DA Opens Investigation Into Port Authority, Christie Administration
"Prosecutors in Manhattan opened an investigation into the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey last month, issuing a subpoena for information on major projects and communication between agency officials and Gov. Chris Christie's administration, according to a report by the Wall Street Journal."
"Prosecutors in Manhattan opened an investigation into the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey last month, issuing a subpoena for information on major projects and communication between agency officials and Gov. Chris Christie's administration, according to a report by the Wall Street Journal."
Cliven Bundy And Pals Planned To Use Women As Human Shields
Cliven Bundy And Pals Planned To Use Women As Human Shields
"Cliven Bundy and the militias supporting him had plans to put women in front in case there was shooting to elicit sympathy for their cause."
"Cliven Bundy and the militias supporting him had plans to put women in front in case there was shooting to elicit sympathy for their cause."
Wisconsin Republicans Will Vote On Right To Secede From America
Wisconsin Republicans Will Vote On Right To Secede From America
"Walker is trying to distance himself from the measure, but when they unleashed the wingnut Kraken to counter Obama's election in 2008, that insanity that isn't going to go away easily."
"Walker is trying to distance himself from the measure, but when they unleashed the wingnut Kraken to counter Obama's election in 2008, that insanity that isn't going to go away easily."
What If the Minimum Wage Were $15 an Hour? | The Nation
What If the Minimum Wage Were $15 an Hour? | The Nation
"As the gears of federal government have ground to a halt, a new energy has been rocking the foundations of our urban centers. From Atlanta to Seattle and points in between, cities have begun seizing the initiative, transforming themselves into laboratories for progressive innovation."
"As the gears of federal government have ground to a halt, a new energy has been rocking the foundations of our urban centers. From Atlanta to Seattle and points in between, cities have begun seizing the initiative, transforming themselves into laboratories for progressive innovation."
Texas Gov. Rick Perry hires high-powered lawyer to defend him in bribery, coercion probe
www.rawstory.com/rs/2014/04/14/texas-gov-rick-perry-hires-high-powered-lawyer-to-defend-him-in-bribery-coercion-probe/
"Texas Governor Rick Perry has hired a high-profile Austin defense attorney to represent him in a criminal investigation into whether withholding money from a Travis County district attorney’s office broke state laws relating to bribery, coercion, or the abuse of authority."
"Texas Governor Rick Perry has hired a high-profile Austin defense attorney to represent him in a criminal investigation into whether withholding money from a Travis County district attorney’s office broke state laws relating to bribery, coercion, or the abuse of authority."
PERRspectives: Makers, Takers and Fakers at Nevada's Bundy Ranch
PERRspectives: Makers, Takers and Fakers at Nevada's Bundy Ranch
"If nothing else, the tense standoff at theBundy ranch in Nevada provided a helpful reminder of what it means to be a patriot in America. There are many things one may do and a small handful of things one must do to be considered a true patriot. Real patriots vote. They vaccinate their kids. Real patriots pay their taxes. And genuine patriots don't threaten government officials with violence over laws with which they disagree. Especially when they use lofty rhetoric about "sovereignty" and "liberty" and "tyranny" as a cynical façade for illegally padding one's own bank account."
"If nothing else, the tense standoff at theBundy ranch in Nevada provided a helpful reminder of what it means to be a patriot in America. There are many things one may do and a small handful of things one must do to be considered a true patriot. Real patriots vote. They vaccinate their kids. Real patriots pay their taxes. And genuine patriots don't threaten government officials with violence over laws with which they disagree. Especially when they use lofty rhetoric about "sovereignty" and "liberty" and "tyranny" as a cynical façade for illegally padding one's own bank account."
'Years of Living Dangerously': The most important television series ever
www.dailykos.com/story/2014/04/13/1290606/--Years-of-Living-Dangerously-The-most-important-television-series-ever
"The complete episode one is at the top of this post. Episode two will air tonight, and 350.org suggests hosting or attending screening parties. If such a thing as "must-see" television exists, this is it."
"The complete episode one is at the top of this post. Episode two will air tonight, and 350.org suggests hosting or attending screening parties. If such a thing as "must-see" television exists, this is it."
Ryan Budget Abandons Innovation Future
www.americanprogress.org/issues/budget/news/2014/04/09/87506/ryan-budget-abandons-innovation-future/
"Rep. Ryan’s proposal, on the other hand, abandons our innovation leadership—and future."
"Rep. Ryan’s proposal, on the other hand, abandons our innovation leadership—and future."
From Death Panels To Death Spirals: The Right-Wing Media's Epic Five-Year Health Care Disinformation Campaign
www.mediamatters.org/research/2014/04/14/from-death-panels-to-death-spirals-the-right-wi/198876
"In the five years since President Obama's health care reform plan -- which became the Affordable Care Act (ACA) -- was first introduced, the right-wing media has waged a continuous campaign to attack the law through misinformation, deception, and outright lies."
"In the five years since President Obama's health care reform plan -- which became the Affordable Care Act (ACA) -- was first introduced, the right-wing media has waged a continuous campaign to attack the law through misinformation, deception, and outright lies."
Walker Asks WI Supreme Court to Review John Doe Dark Money Probe
Walker Asks WI Supreme Court to Review John Doe Dark Money Probe
"At least some members of the Wisconsin Supreme Court have a potential conflict of interest in the case. Two of the groups under investigation in the probe, Wisconsin Club for Growth and Citizens for a Strong America, played a key role in electing the four justices in the conservative majority and have been among the top spenders on Wisconsin Supreme Court races in recent years."
"At least some members of the Wisconsin Supreme Court have a potential conflict of interest in the case. Two of the groups under investigation in the probe, Wisconsin Club for Growth and Citizens for a Strong America, played a key role in electing the four justices in the conservative majority and have been among the top spenders on Wisconsin Supreme Court races in recent years."
What If Hobby Lobby Wins? | Right Wing Watch
What If Hobby Lobby Wins? | Right Wing Watch
"David Barton, an influential conservative activist who helped write the Republican Party’s 2012 platform, argues that the Bible opposes the minimum wage, unions and collective bargaining, estate taxes, capital gains taxes, and progressive taxation in general. Should a company whose owners share Barton’s views be allowed to ignore laws that protect workers by claiming that those laws violate the company’s religious beliefs?
That’s a questions being asked as the U.S. Supreme Court considers whether it will recognize for the first time ever that for-profit corporations can make religious freedom claims under federal law."
"David Barton, an influential conservative activist who helped write the Republican Party’s 2012 platform, argues that the Bible opposes the minimum wage, unions and collective bargaining, estate taxes, capital gains taxes, and progressive taxation in general. Should a company whose owners share Barton’s views be allowed to ignore laws that protect workers by claiming that those laws violate the company’s religious beliefs?
That’s a questions being asked as the U.S. Supreme Court considers whether it will recognize for the first time ever that for-profit corporations can make religious freedom claims under federal law."
Won't You Help Find Mitch McConnell His Forever Home?
Won't You Help Find Mitch McConnell His Forever Home?
"The fabulous Daily Show co-creator Lizz Winstead and her equally amazing compatriots at Lady Parts Justice are creating campaigns targeting anti-choice politicians and promoting pro-choice politicians. Here's their first, focusing on Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell. Like so many creeps that won't take a hint and leave you alone, sometimes the best tactic to take is full-on mockery"
"The fabulous Daily Show co-creator Lizz Winstead and her equally amazing compatriots at Lady Parts Justice are creating campaigns targeting anti-choice politicians and promoting pro-choice politicians. Here's their first, focusing on Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell. Like so many creeps that won't take a hint and leave you alone, sometimes the best tactic to take is full-on mockery"
Dear Fossil Fuel Industry - It's Over | Common Dreams
Dear Fossil Fuel Industry - It's Over | Common Dreams
"Clean, renewable energy is getting bigger, better and cheaper every day and can now provide the solutions the world needs. Renewables are the most economical solution for new power capacity in an ever increasing number of countries.
The "age of renewables" has arrived."
"Clean, renewable energy is getting bigger, better and cheaper every day and can now provide the solutions the world needs. Renewables are the most economical solution for new power capacity in an ever increasing number of countries.
The "age of renewables" has arrived."
Sunday, April 13, 2014
Al Franken Discusses Why He's Against The Comcast Takeover
Al Franken Discusses Why He's Against The Comcast Takeover
"Franken wrote an op-ed for CNN.com and appeared on the channel's Reliable Sources to talk about the dangers of further media consolidation"
"Franken wrote an op-ed for CNN.com and appeared on the channel's Reliable Sources to talk about the dangers of further media consolidation"
The Wall Street Second-Chances Rule: Scandal Makes the Rich Grow Stronger | Common Dreams
The Wall Street Second-Chances Rule: Scandal Makes the Rich Grow Stronger | Common Dreams
"For SAC's Steve Cohen and CEOs like him, money always wins. Who needs retirement – or jail – when you can't lose?"
"For SAC's Steve Cohen and CEOs like him, money always wins. Who needs retirement – or jail – when you can't lose?"
The Wall Street Second-Chances Rule: Scandal Makes the Rich Grow Stronger | Common Dreams
The Wall Street Second-Chances Rule: Scandal Makes the Rich Grow Stronger | Common Dreams
"For SAC's Steve Cohen and CEOs like him, money always wins. Who needs retirement – or jail – when you can't lose?"
"For SAC's Steve Cohen and CEOs like him, money always wins. Who needs retirement – or jail – when you can't lose?"
Republicans Haven't Changed Much
Republicans Haven't Changed Much
"A recent Pew survey underscores just how deep a hole the GOP is in. Young people vote heavily Democratic, and they believe in an active government that seeks to solve problems and provide more services. On fiscal issues, about six in 10 young Americans oppose benefit cuts as a way to strengthen the social safety net, and today even 61% of young Republicans support marriage equality. With good reason, these young voters see the GOP as the party of the past."
"A recent Pew survey underscores just how deep a hole the GOP is in. Young people vote heavily Democratic, and they believe in an active government that seeks to solve problems and provide more services. On fiscal issues, about six in 10 young Americans oppose benefit cuts as a way to strengthen the social safety net, and today even 61% of young Republicans support marriage equality. With good reason, these young voters see the GOP as the party of the past."
PERRspectives: In Arkansas and Georgia, an Obamacare Tale of Two Clinics
PERRspectives: In Arkansas and Georgia, an Obamacare Tale of Two Clinics
"For the two clinics, it was the best of times and the worst times. In Mena, Arkansas, the 9th Street Ministries free clinic is closing its doors after 16 years, its services no longer needed by the poor residents who have now obtained health insurance thanks to the Affordable Care Act. But in Glenwood, Georgia, the Lower Oconee Community Hospital has closed, largely because the low income denizens of Wheeler County did not. And with 94,000 Arkansanscovered by the expansion of Medicaid spearheaded by Democratic Governor Mike Beebe while Republican Governor Nathan Deal left over 600,000 Georgians without, the tale of two clinics is bound to be repeated in the months ahead."
"For the two clinics, it was the best of times and the worst times. In Mena, Arkansas, the 9th Street Ministries free clinic is closing its doors after 16 years, its services no longer needed by the poor residents who have now obtained health insurance thanks to the Affordable Care Act. But in Glenwood, Georgia, the Lower Oconee Community Hospital has closed, largely because the low income denizens of Wheeler County did not. And with 94,000 Arkansanscovered by the expansion of Medicaid spearheaded by Democratic Governor Mike Beebe while Republican Governor Nathan Deal left over 600,000 Georgians without, the tale of two clinics is bound to be repeated in the months ahead."
Ignorance is Bred From Insecurity, and Republicans are Full of Both
www.forwardprogressives.com/ignorance-bred-insecurity-republicans-full/
"We elected our first African-American president, which brought out the racists who finally realized that this country is moving further and further away from racism. That triggered the radicalization of the Republican party in the form of “tea party patriots.” The more we progress as a nation, the more radical conservatives are going to become. Because that progress is a direct threat to their insecurity which will trigger a radical ignorant reaction to try to salvage their outdated ignorance. But the good news is, history tells us that while ignorance might win some battles, it ultimately loses the war. So while Republicans cling to their last grasps at relevancy, in the end – they’re going to lose."
"We elected our first African-American president, which brought out the racists who finally realized that this country is moving further and further away from racism. That triggered the radicalization of the Republican party in the form of “tea party patriots.” The more we progress as a nation, the more radical conservatives are going to become. Because that progress is a direct threat to their insecurity which will trigger a radical ignorant reaction to try to salvage their outdated ignorance. But the good news is, history tells us that while ignorance might win some battles, it ultimately loses the war. So while Republicans cling to their last grasps at relevancy, in the end – they’re going to lose."
SNL Cold Open: Meet The 'New Republican Party'
SNL Cold Open: Meet The 'New Republican Party'
"Meet the new Republican party... same as the old Republican party."
"Meet the new Republican party... same as the old Republican party."
How the Ryan Budget Fails Our Economy by Failing Economics
www.americanprogress.org/issues/budget/report/2014/04/09/87430/how-the-ryan-budget-fails-our-economy-by-failing-economics/
"Like the earlier budgets written by Rep. Ryan, this one is not likely to be taken seriously by anyone but House Republicans, nor should it be. It relies on outdated economic theories that would be wrong for our economy’s actual problems even if they were not discredited."
"Like the earlier budgets written by Rep. Ryan, this one is not likely to be taken seriously by anyone but House Republicans, nor should it be. It relies on outdated economic theories that would be wrong for our economy’s actual problems even if they were not discredited."
This 32-Year-Old Florida Woman Is Dead Because Her State Refused To Expand Medicaid
www.thinkprogress.org/health/2014/04/09/3424629/florida-medicaid-charlene-dill/
"A recent study conducted by Harvard researchers estimated that as many as 17,000 people will die directly as a result of their states refusing to expand Medicaid. In Florida, that translates to about six deaths like Dill’s every single day." (Reposted)
"A recent study conducted by Harvard researchers estimated that as many as 17,000 people will die directly as a result of their states refusing to expand Medicaid. In Florida, that translates to about six deaths like Dill’s every single day." (Reposted)
Republican Governors and Legislatures Are Killing People by Not Expanding Medicaid
Republican Governors and Legislatures Are Killing People by Not Expanding Medicaid
"Gov. Rick Scott (R-FL) and the Republican legislature in Florida are likely responsible for the death of 32-year-old Charlene Dill, a mother of three separated from her husband. Dill did everything the anti-poor warriors in DC demands of those with limited money: She worked three jobs, budgeted her expenses and cared for her children. But she couldn't afford adequate medical care."
"Gov. Rick Scott (R-FL) and the Republican legislature in Florida are likely responsible for the death of 32-year-old Charlene Dill, a mother of three separated from her husband. Dill did everything the anti-poor warriors in DC demands of those with limited money: She worked three jobs, budgeted her expenses and cared for her children. But she couldn't afford adequate medical care."
If You Don’t Have Healthcare, The GOP Doesn’t Care If You Die
www.addictinginfo.org/2014/04/12/gop-doesnt-care-die/
"While prominent Republicans, like Mitt Romney, Jim DeMint and Haley Barbour have turned to the “ER’s will treat you” as a way to support the rejection of expanding Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act, they are quickly changing their tunes. Now, instead of advocating for ERs to treat the uninsured like decent human beings, they aim to keep the uninsured from using emergency rooms at all. Georgia Governor Nathan Deal is lobbying on Congress to allow hospitals to turn people away from emergency rooms who lack health insurance."
"While prominent Republicans, like Mitt Romney, Jim DeMint and Haley Barbour have turned to the “ER’s will treat you” as a way to support the rejection of expanding Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act, they are quickly changing their tunes. Now, instead of advocating for ERs to treat the uninsured like decent human beings, they aim to keep the uninsured from using emergency rooms at all. Georgia Governor Nathan Deal is lobbying on Congress to allow hospitals to turn people away from emergency rooms who lack health insurance."
Ohio Announces Stricter Fracking Permits After Link Between Extraction and Seismic Activity is Found
www.alternet.org/fracking/ohio-announces-stricter-fracking-permits
"Geologists working for the State of Ohio have confirmed a direct link between hydraulic fracturing and a recent spate of seismic activity in region. The scientists' findings have prompted the state to issue new permit conditions for fracking that are among the nation's strictest.
Ohio has been investigating recent tremors near Youngstown, in the northwestern part of the state. The geologists found that the high-pressure injection of water and fracking compounds into the underground rock formation known as the Utica Shale have likely stressed a previously unknown fault."
"Geologists working for the State of Ohio have confirmed a direct link between hydraulic fracturing and a recent spate of seismic activity in region. The scientists' findings have prompted the state to issue new permit conditions for fracking that are among the nation's strictest.
Ohio has been investigating recent tremors near Youngstown, in the northwestern part of the state. The geologists found that the high-pressure injection of water and fracking compounds into the underground rock formation known as the Utica Shale have likely stressed a previously unknown fault."
Saturday, April 12, 2014
The Economic Case for Restoring Coastal Ecosystems
www.americanprogress.org/issues/green/report/2014/04/09/87386/the-economic-case-for-restoring-coastal-ecosystems/
"Investing in coastal restoration is good policy. It is not just the right thing to do for the environment; it is the right thing to do for coastal communities, vulnerable coastal populations, and the U.S. economy."
"Investing in coastal restoration is good policy. It is not just the right thing to do for the environment; it is the right thing to do for coastal communities, vulnerable coastal populations, and the U.S. economy."
The Economic Benefits of Restoring Coastal Ecosystems Fact Sheet
www.americanprogress.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/CoastalRestoration-factsheet.pdf
"Averaging the benefit-cost ratios across the three restoration projects studied, each dollar invested by taxpayers returns more than $15 in net economic benefits."
"Averaging the benefit-cost ratios across the three restoration projects studied, each dollar invested by taxpayers returns more than $15 in net economic benefits."
GMO Lobby Works Tirelessly Against Mandatory Labeling
GMO Lobby Works Tirelessly Against Mandatory Labeling
"Pompeo is not well known for passing bills in Congress. He is known for being the single largest recipient of campaign funding from Koch Industries' PACs and employees in 2010. And h has introduced several bills friendly to the Koch brothers' interests, according to the Washington Post. The Huffington Post recently called him "the Koch brothers' point man in the House." Pompeo is Koch Industries' top recipient again in the current election cycle, according to OpenSecrets.org."
"Pompeo is not well known for passing bills in Congress. He is known for being the single largest recipient of campaign funding from Koch Industries' PACs and employees in 2010. And h has introduced several bills friendly to the Koch brothers' interests, according to the Washington Post. The Huffington Post recently called him "the Koch brothers' point man in the House." Pompeo is Koch Industries' top recipient again in the current election cycle, according to OpenSecrets.org."
Louisiana Republicans Are Pushing A Bill To Adopt The Bible As The State Book (VIDEO)
www.addictinginfo.org/2014/04/11/watch-louisiana-gop-pushes-bill-adopt-bible-state-book/
"Louisiana Republicans are pushing forward with a plan to force Christianity upon everyone in the state. In a move that blatantly violates the Establishment Clause of the Constitution, the GOP is advancing a bill that would name the Bible the state book."
"Louisiana Republicans are pushing forward with a plan to force Christianity upon everyone in the state. In a move that blatantly violates the Establishment Clause of the Constitution, the GOP is advancing a bill that would name the Bible the state book."
'Heartbleed' Bug A Critical Internet Illness
'Heartbleed' Bug A Critical Internet Illness
"The "Heartbleed" flaw in Internet security is as critical as the name implies and wider spread than first believed."
"The "Heartbleed" flaw in Internet security is as critical as the name implies and wider spread than first believed."
DOJ Investigation Confirms: Albuquerque Police 'Executing' Citizens | Common Dreams
DOJ Investigation Confirms: Albuquerque Police 'Executing' Citizens | Common Dreams
"Residents of Albuquerque, New Mexico are marching on the police department Saturday to demand retribution against the city's mayor and police chief for their role in the police force's documented "execution" of citizens.
The march comes after the Department of Justice slammed the Albuquerque Police Department for their frequent use of excessive and lethal force in a damning report released on Thursday."
"Residents of Albuquerque, New Mexico are marching on the police department Saturday to demand retribution against the city's mayor and police chief for their role in the police force's documented "execution" of citizens.
The march comes after the Department of Justice slammed the Albuquerque Police Department for their frequent use of excessive and lethal force in a damning report released on Thursday."
The U.S. Navy Just Announced The End Of Big Oil And No One Noticed
www.addictinginfo.org/2014/04/12/navy-ends-big-oil/
"Curiously, this doesn’t seem to be making much of a splash (no pun intended) on the evening news. Let’s repeat this: The United States Navy has figured out how to turn seawater into fuel and it will cost about the same as gasoline."
"Curiously, this doesn’t seem to be making much of a splash (no pun intended) on the evening news. Let’s repeat this: The United States Navy has figured out how to turn seawater into fuel and it will cost about the same as gasoline."
Evidence of GOP Interference in VW Election Is Now Overwhelming
Evidence of GOP Interference in VW Election Is Now Overwhelming
"The evidence of unlawful interference at Chattanooga is now overwhelming. Republicans intimidated workers and misled them about the implications of their vote. Governor Haslam and Senator Corker deceived them about the nature and extent of their involvement in the campaign. The NLRB must now ensure they do not get away with this outrageous interference."
"The evidence of unlawful interference at Chattanooga is now overwhelming. Republicans intimidated workers and misled them about the implications of their vote. Governor Haslam and Senator Corker deceived them about the nature and extent of their involvement in the campaign. The NLRB must now ensure they do not get away with this outrageous interference."
New Study Confirms Likely Link Between Fracking And Earthquakes
New Study Confirms Likely Link Between Fracking And Earthquakes
"Seismologists have determined that fracking can be linked to seismic activity in Ohio."
"Seismologists have determined that fracking can be linked to seismic activity in Ohio."
Bernie Sanders Raises Battle Cry Against Citizens United:
Bernie Sanders Raises Battle Cry Against Citizens United:
"Citizens United is not just the default reference for US Supreme Court decisions—including the 2010 Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission ruling—that have ushered in a new era of corporate dominance of American elections. It’s the name of the conservative group that encouraged Chief Justice John Roberts and the most activist Court majority in American history to tear the heart out of what were already weak campaign finance laws."
"Citizens United is not just the default reference for US Supreme Court decisions—including the 2010 Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission ruling—that have ushered in a new era of corporate dominance of American elections. It’s the name of the conservative group that encouraged Chief Justice John Roberts and the most activist Court majority in American history to tear the heart out of what were already weak campaign finance laws."
Obama Calls Out Republicans For Embarrassing the Nation on Equal Pay
www.politicususa.com/2014/04/12/obama-calls-republicans-embarrassing-nation-equal-pay.html
"Women are the engine that powers America’s economic future. What Republicans are trying to do is make sure that our economic engine is operating 77% of capacity. For a party that claims to understand the economy better than Democrats, this is a really stupid agenda.
The Republican agenda is being pushed by a group of white men who see their status atop the economic pyramid slipping away, and they want it back. This is the root motivation behind most of their policy positions. Republicans continue to believe that the country is only at its best when white conservative men are in charge."
"Women are the engine that powers America’s economic future. What Republicans are trying to do is make sure that our economic engine is operating 77% of capacity. For a party that claims to understand the economy better than Democrats, this is a really stupid agenda.
The Republican agenda is being pushed by a group of white men who see their status atop the economic pyramid slipping away, and they want it back. This is the root motivation behind most of their policy positions. Republicans continue to believe that the country is only at its best when white conservative men are in charge."
The Rot of Wall Street Stinks All the Way to the Bank
www.alternet.org/news-amp-politics/rot-wall-street-stinks-all-way-bank
"Let's review the rap sheet of Wall Street banks: Defrauding investors, cheating homeowners, forgery, rigging markets, tax evasion, credit card ripoffs ... and so sickeningly much more."
"Let's review the rap sheet of Wall Street banks: Defrauding investors, cheating homeowners, forgery, rigging markets, tax evasion, credit card ripoffs ... and so sickeningly much more."
Paul Ryan Criticizes Your Work Ethic While Working 4 Days Before Taking an 18 Day Vacation
www.politicususa.com/2014/04/11/paul-ryan-criticizes-work-ethic-working-4-days-18-day-vacation.html
"Paul Ryan is the worst of them all because he has been a lifetime federal government “taker” and will spend a good part of his hiatus boasting to the filthy rich donors that his budget punishing “takers” passed the House earning him a well-deserved 18-day respite and millions in campaign donations. It is time to treat House Republicans the way they treat the American people and limit them to minimum wage, no overtime pay, no pension, no healthcare, no vacation time, and immediate termination for expecting more than one day off each week. Maybe then they will learn about the culture and value of work and realize the level of luxury they have working a third of the year earning bloated salaries, exorbitant pensions, and excellent benefits at taxpayer expense while doing absolutely nothing for anyone except their dark-money campaign donors the Koch brothers."
"Paul Ryan is the worst of them all because he has been a lifetime federal government “taker” and will spend a good part of his hiatus boasting to the filthy rich donors that his budget punishing “takers” passed the House earning him a well-deserved 18-day respite and millions in campaign donations. It is time to treat House Republicans the way they treat the American people and limit them to minimum wage, no overtime pay, no pension, no healthcare, no vacation time, and immediate termination for expecting more than one day off each week. Maybe then they will learn about the culture and value of work and realize the level of luxury they have working a third of the year earning bloated salaries, exorbitant pensions, and excellent benefits at taxpayer expense while doing absolutely nothing for anyone except their dark-money campaign donors the Koch brothers."
Bernie Sanders Exposes Koch Brothers' Goals
Bernie Sanders Exposes Koch Brothers' Goals
""Every single one of these ideas is rooted in John Birch Society dogma. Just because Fred Koch left the Birchers back in the day doesn't mean he abandoned their overall goals. His sons are just expanding capacity for them now, not abandoning their principles."
""Every single one of these ideas is rooted in John Birch Society dogma. Just because Fred Koch left the Birchers back in the day doesn't mean he abandoned their overall goals. His sons are just expanding capacity for them now, not abandoning their principles."
Thanks, Kochs! PBS Infested With White Supremacist Charles Murray
Thanks, Kochs! PBS Infested With White Supremacist Charles Murray
"This is what happens when billionaires take control of public broadcasting after forcing Congress to defund it. They present bogus reports about ways the left and right can "come together" in order to dupe viewers into thinking libertarians give a damn about the social safety net."
"This is what happens when billionaires take control of public broadcasting after forcing Congress to defund it. They present bogus reports about ways the left and right can "come together" in order to dupe viewers into thinking libertarians give a damn about the social safety net."
Friday, April 11, 2014
VA GOP Candidate: Disabled Children God's Punishment For Abortion
VA GOP Candidate: Disabled Children God's Punishment For Abortion
"The sickness of the religious right community is striking."
"The sickness of the religious right community is striking."
Scientists Use Solar Power To Make More Solar Panels
www.thinkprogress.org/climate/2014/04/10/3425126/scientists-use-solar-power-to-make-more-solar-panels/
"Solar power could soon be used directly in the manufacturing of new solar cells, making production of a key chemical require zero energy."
"Solar power could soon be used directly in the manufacturing of new solar cells, making production of a key chemical require zero energy."
Climate Change Drying Out Southwest Now, With Worse To Come For A Third Of The Planet
www.thinkprogress.org/climate/2014/04/11/3424247/climate-change-drying-out-southwest/
"Two new studies confirm that warming-driven climate change is already drying the U.S. Southwest and other parts of the globe. More worrisome, nearly a third of the world’s land faces drying from rising greenhouse gases — including two of the world’s greatest agricultural centers, “the U.S. Great Plains and a swath of southeastern China"."
"Two new studies confirm that warming-driven climate change is already drying the U.S. Southwest and other parts of the globe. More worrisome, nearly a third of the world’s land faces drying from rising greenhouse gases — including two of the world’s greatest agricultural centers, “the U.S. Great Plains and a swath of southeastern China"."
Bob Marshall Reiterates Claim That Disabled Children Represent God's 'Vengeance' For Abortion | Right Wing Watch
Bob Marshall Reiterates Claim That Disabled Children Represent God's 'Vengeance' For Abortion | Right Wing Watch
"Virginia GOP state delegate and congressional candidate Bob Marshall is standing by his claim that disabled children are God’s punishment for women who have an abortion."
"Virginia GOP state delegate and congressional candidate Bob Marshall is standing by his claim that disabled children are God’s punishment for women who have an abortion."
Michigan Republicans withhold road repair funds from Democratic districts to punish Democrats
Michigan Republicans withhold road repair funds from Democratic districts to punish Democrats
"If you needed any further evidence that Michigan Republicans are drunk with power and willing to do anything to maintain that power, even if it means harming Michiganders who live in districts they do not represent, this would be it. And not only did they do it, they are admitting to it, In fact, seem to be gleefully satisfied that it was appropriate."
"If you needed any further evidence that Michigan Republicans are drunk with power and willing to do anything to maintain that power, even if it means harming Michiganders who live in districts they do not represent, this would be it. And not only did they do it, they are admitting to it, In fact, seem to be gleefully satisfied that it was appropriate."
How Labeling Retirement Plans Like We Label Cigarettes Could Save Workers A Fortune
www.thinkprogress.org/economy/2014/04/11/3425842/retirement-account-labels/
"The individual retirement accounts and 401(k)s that have become the primary vehicle for retirement savings come with fees that are four to five times higher, on average, than those associated with traditional mutual funds. Over the course of a lifetime, that difference amounts to between $71,000 and $94,000 in additional fees for the median American worker who starts saving for retirement at age 25. And because higher fees do not correlate with better market performance, a worker in a high-fee plan will have to work four years longer to accumulate the same nest egg as one who saves through low-fee systems."
"The individual retirement accounts and 401(k)s that have become the primary vehicle for retirement savings come with fees that are four to five times higher, on average, than those associated with traditional mutual funds. Over the course of a lifetime, that difference amounts to between $71,000 and $94,000 in additional fees for the median American worker who starts saving for retirement at age 25. And because higher fees do not correlate with better market performance, a worker in a high-fee plan will have to work four years longer to accumulate the same nest egg as one who saves through low-fee systems."
Fox News Gives Lying Weasel Chaffetz Air Time To Lie For True The Vote
Fox News Gives Lying Weasel Chaffetz Air Time To Lie For True The Vote
"Chaffetz is breathlessly informing uninformed ignorant Fox viewers about a whole lot of nothing, carefully phrased to sound like something. Because it's really all about the black dudes voting."
"Chaffetz is breathlessly informing uninformed ignorant Fox viewers about a whole lot of nothing, carefully phrased to sound like something. Because it's really all about the black dudes voting."
Politicians Are Beginning to Realize Voter Suppression Is a Bad Idea
Politicians Are Beginning to Realize Voter Suppression Is a Bad Idea
"As Wisconsin became the latest state to restrict voter access, state Republican Senator Dale Schultz condemned his party for trying to suppress the vote. “I’m a guy who understands and appreciates what we should be doing in order to make sure every vote counts, every vote is legitimate. But that fact is, it ought to be abundantly clear to everybody in this state that there is no massive voter fraud. The only thing that we do have in this state is we have long lines of people who want to vote. And it seems to me that we should be doing everything we can to make it easier, to help these people get their votes counted"."
"As Wisconsin became the latest state to restrict voter access, state Republican Senator Dale Schultz condemned his party for trying to suppress the vote. “I’m a guy who understands and appreciates what we should be doing in order to make sure every vote counts, every vote is legitimate. But that fact is, it ought to be abundantly clear to everybody in this state that there is no massive voter fraud. The only thing that we do have in this state is we have long lines of people who want to vote. And it seems to me that we should be doing everything we can to make it easier, to help these people get their votes counted"."
6 Most Absurd Things Right-Wing Christians Have Blamed on Gays
www.alternet.org/belief/6-most-absurd-things-right-wing-christians-have-blamed-gays
"right wingers have a long history of blaming everything from earthquakes to recession to climate change on the advance of gay marriage, and they’re only getting more ridiculous."
"right wingers have a long history of blaming everything from earthquakes to recession to climate change on the advance of gay marriage, and they’re only getting more ridiculous."
Mitch McConnell Asks If Americans Prefer Him Or Harry Reid: Hilarity Ensues (Screenshots)
Mitch McConnell Asks If Americans Prefer Him Or Harry Reid: Hilarity Ensues (Screenshots)
"He was probably expecting an influx of “Get rid of Reid” style comments, but what he got was…stomped. The comment section flooded with remarks indicating that America does not want him to lead the Senate–or anything else"
"He was probably expecting an influx of “Get rid of Reid” style comments, but what he got was…stomped. The comment section flooded with remarks indicating that America does not want him to lead the Senate–or anything else"
What Do the Koch Brothers Really Want? | Common Dreams
What Do the Koch Brothers Really Want? | Common Dreams
"In other words, the agenda of the Koch brothers is not only to defund Obamacare. The agenda of the Koch brothers is to repeal every major piece of legislation that has been signed into law over the past 80 years that has protected the middle class, the elderly, the children, the sick, and the most vulnerable in this country.
"In other words, the agenda of the Koch brothers is not only to defund Obamacare. The agenda of the Koch brothers is to repeal every major piece of legislation that has been signed into law over the past 80 years that has protected the middle class, the elderly, the children, the sick, and the most vulnerable in this country.
It is clear that the Koch brothers and other right wing billionaires are calling the shots and are pulling the strings of the Republican Party."
Thursday, April 10, 2014
Thanks to Republicans, the World Just Got a Little More Dangerous | The Nation
Thanks to Republicans, the World Just Got a Little More Dangerous | The Nation
"Though unrecognized as such, one of our most critical human resources—if not the most critical—is the carefully maintained control of the world’s nuclear arsenal."
"Though unrecognized as such, one of our most critical human resources—if not the most critical—is the carefully maintained control of the world’s nuclear arsenal."
Fox News Says It’s Good That Women Make Less Than Men And It Helps Them Keep Their Jobs (VIDEO)
www.addictinginfo.org/2014/04/10/fox-says-pay-gap-good/
"The gender pay gap is real, whatever conservatives like to say. Women make approximately 77 cents for every dollar a man makes, and it’s been that way for years"
"The gender pay gap is real, whatever conservatives like to say. Women make approximately 77 cents for every dollar a man makes, and it’s been that way for years"
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