Daily Kos: 15 things everyone would know if there were a liberal media:
Prince Riebus (and apparently many others) still thinks there's a liberal media.
While I share Prince's frustration with the media, as a liberal, I'd like to go on record and state that the media isn't focusing on issues I care about. They seem to be far more focused on entertainment and making money.
Don't believe me?
Tuesday, December 31, 2013
The National Memo » The Democrats’ Not-So-Secret Weapon For 2014? Raising The Minimum Wage
The National Memo » The Democrats’ Not-So-Secret Weapon For 2014? Raising The Minimum Wage:
In March of this year, the House GOP unanimously voted against raising the federal minimum wage from $7.25 to $10.10 an hour over three years.
Almost nine months later, after a government shutdown and a budget deal that did not include an extension of emergency benefits for the unemployed, the party’s position has not changed, even as public opinion swells in favor of increasing the wage. A recent Washington Post/ABC News poll found 77 percent in favor of a hike.
In March of this year, the House GOP unanimously voted against raising the federal minimum wage from $7.25 to $10.10 an hour over three years.
Almost nine months later, after a government shutdown and a budget deal that did not include an extension of emergency benefits for the unemployed, the party’s position has not changed, even as public opinion swells in favor of increasing the wage. A recent Washington Post/ABC News poll found 77 percent in favor of a hike.
The National Memo » How The GOP Became A Party Of Benghazi ‘Truthers’
The National Memo » How The GOP Became A Party Of Benghazi ‘Truthers’:
After a year of demanding answers about the terrorist attack that took place in Benghazi on September 11, 2012, the right wing got them in the form of a well-reported exposé by The New York Times‘ David Kirkpatrick.
After a year of demanding answers about the terrorist attack that took place in Benghazi on September 11, 2012, the right wing got them in the form of a well-reported exposé by The New York Times‘ David Kirkpatrick.
The National Memo » This Year In Crazy: A Fond Look Back At An Insane Year In Politics
The National Memo » This Year In Crazy: A Fond Look Back At An Insane Year In Politics:
During his re-election campaign, President Barack Obama repeatedly speculated that the “partisan fever” in Washington, D.C. would break after the 2012 presidential election. One year into the president’s second term, it’s quite possible that his prediction was crazier than anything you’re about to read.
During his re-election campaign, President Barack Obama repeatedly speculated that the “partisan fever” in Washington, D.C. would break after the 2012 presidential election. One year into the president’s second term, it’s quite possible that his prediction was crazier than anything you’re about to read.
Monday, December 30, 2013
For Drug Corporations, Aiding the Sick and Poor Is Bad Business | Common Dreams
For Drug Corporations, Aiding the Sick and Poor Is Bad Business | Common Dreams:
As Big Pharma argues that patents fuel innovation, critics say drug monopolies must go
As Big Pharma argues that patents fuel innovation, critics say drug monopolies must go
2014: Seize the Moment | Common Dreams
2014: Seize the Moment | Common Dreams /Bernie Sanders:
The Congress has just ended one of the worst and least productive sessions in the history of our country. At a time when the problems facing us are monumental, Congress is dysfunctional and more and more people (especially the young) are, understandably, giving up on the political process. The people are hurting. They look to Washington for help. Nothing is happening.
The Congress has just ended one of the worst and least productive sessions in the history of our country. At a time when the problems facing us are monumental, Congress is dysfunctional and more and more people (especially the young) are, understandably, giving up on the political process. The people are hurting. They look to Washington for help. Nothing is happening.
The National Memo » Are You Supporting The Koch Brothers?
The National Memo » Are You Supporting The Koch Brothers?:
The Koch Brothers want inside your pocket.
The Koch Brothers want inside your pocket.
Daily Kos: Two things to remember if you think this Duck Dynasty thing is about anything except bigotry
Daily Kos: Two things to remember if you think this Duck Dynasty thing is about anything except bigotry:
To recap: It's the gays who should be fired, not the people who make bigoted remarks about them.
To recap: It's the gays who should be fired, not the people who make bigoted remarks about them.
Daily Kos: Delusional Limbaugh Claims the Tea Party Shall Rise Again
Daily Kos: Delusional Limbaugh Claims the Tea Party Shall Rise Again:
Earlier this month, delusional right wing talk show host Rush Limbaugh painted a rosy picture of the future of the Tea Party in this country, despite overwhelming evidence to the contrary in the wake of the ill-conceived government shutdown.
Earlier this month, delusional right wing talk show host Rush Limbaugh painted a rosy picture of the future of the Tea Party in this country, despite overwhelming evidence to the contrary in the wake of the ill-conceived government shutdown.
Daily Kos: Why I prefer hate to be clear and precise
Daily Kos: Why I prefer hate to be clear and precise:
It's like when someone says traditional family values, my ears hear, "god hates fags".
It's like when someone says traditional family values, my ears hear, "god hates fags".
Sunday, December 29, 2013
Duck Dynasty's Phil Robertson: Girls should carry a Bible and marry 'when they are 15' | Crooks and Liars
Duck Dynasty's Phil Robertson: Girls should carry a Bible and marry 'when they are 15' | Crooks and Liars:
Recently uncovered video indicates that Duck Dynasty star Phil Robertson may have fringe views -- other than those on homosexuality and civil rights -- that most Americans would find far outside the mainstream.
Recently uncovered video indicates that Duck Dynasty star Phil Robertson may have fringe views -- other than those on homosexuality and civil rights -- that most Americans would find far outside the mainstream.
Top 10 Noteworthy Progressive Milestones of 2013 | Alternet
Top 10 Noteworthy Progressive Milestones of 2013 | Alternet:
There was plenty of pushback and protest against corruption and the abuse of power.
There was plenty of pushback and protest against corruption and the abuse of power.
America's Insane Attitude Towards Sexual Pleasure | Alternet
America's Insane Attitude Towards Sexual Pleasure | Alternet:
America is still a puritanical, consumer nation bent on policing sexual expression, while selling smut and sanctimony steeped in shame.
America is still a puritanical, consumer nation bent on policing sexual expression, while selling smut and sanctimony steeped in shame.
Saturday, December 28, 2013
"Osama Bin Laden Is Our President Obama": The Year On The Fringe | Blog | Media Matters for America
"Osama Bin Laden Is Our President Obama": The Year On The Fringe | Blog | Media Matters for America:
On a rainy morning in October, Fox News reporter Doug McKelway sat in the passenger seat of a car cruising around the Washington, D.C., Beltway, delivering a live update to Fox & Friends.
McKelway was there to report on the arrival of what was supposed to be thousands of truckers protesting the Obama administration, an event that Fox and other conservative outlets had already given a significant publicity boost...
On a rainy morning in October, Fox News reporter Doug McKelway sat in the passenger seat of a car cruising around the Washington, D.C., Beltway, delivering a live update to Fox & Friends.
McKelway was there to report on the arrival of what was supposed to be thousands of truckers protesting the Obama administration, an event that Fox and other conservative outlets had already given a significant publicity boost...
Misinformer Of The Year: CBS News | Blog | Media Matters for America
Misinformer Of The Year: CBS News | Blog | Media Matters for America:
Even now, nearly two months after it aired, almost nothing about CBS News' "exclusive" (and infamous) 60 Minutes report on Benghazi makes sense. From conception, to execution, to the network's stubborn claims that the report met its high standards even as it publicly dissolved, the story on the Benghazi terror attack of 2012 quickly became a case study in how not to practice journalism on the national stage. And in how dangerous it is to lose sight of fair play and common sense when wielding the power and prestige of the country's most-watched news program.
"It is, to put it mildly, surprising that 60 Minutes did not check this discrepancy before broadcast" -- former Meet The Press host Marvin Kalb.
Even now, nearly two months after it aired, almost nothing about CBS News' "exclusive" (and infamous) 60 Minutes report on Benghazi makes sense. From conception, to execution, to the network's stubborn claims that the report met its high standards even as it publicly dissolved, the story on the Benghazi terror attack of 2012 quickly became a case study in how not to practice journalism on the national stage. And in how dangerous it is to lose sight of fair play and common sense when wielding the power and prestige of the country's most-watched news program.
The National Memo » America’s Greediest: The Koch Brothers, The ‘Libertarians’ Who Hate The Free Market
The National Memo » America’s Greediest: The Koch Brothers, The ‘Libertarians’ Who Hate The Free Market: Imagine this.
You and your brother are tied as the fourth richest person in America with $36 billion in assets each, the fruits of owning the second largest privately owned corporation in the world. How would you spend your spare time and money?
Perhaps you’d donate millions to medical research, public television and the arts. Or maybe you’d dabble in politics and try to expose the “Science of Liberty” and economic freedom to help “the most vulnerable.”
That’s what the Koch Brothers do. And how are they helping the most vulnerable?
By attempting to rid the public of programs like Social Security, which has kept more Americans out of poverty than anything the government has ever done.
You and your brother are tied as the fourth richest person in America with $36 billion in assets each, the fruits of owning the second largest privately owned corporation in the world. How would you spend your spare time and money?
Perhaps you’d donate millions to medical research, public television and the arts. Or maybe you’d dabble in politics and try to expose the “Science of Liberty” and economic freedom to help “the most vulnerable.”
That’s what the Koch Brothers do. And how are they helping the most vulnerable?
By attempting to rid the public of programs like Social Security, which has kept more Americans out of poverty than anything the government has ever done.
Friday, December 27, 2013
The Real Reason Tesla Is Still Alive (And Other Green Car Companies Aren't) - Forbes
The Real Reason Tesla Is Still Alive (And Other Green Car Companies Aren't) - Forbes:
...That leaves only Tesla Motors TSLA -2.89%, maker of the plug-in Tesla roadster and the new Model S sedan, still standing. Which begs the question: why has Tesla made it when so many others have not?
...That leaves only Tesla Motors TSLA -2.89%, maker of the plug-in Tesla roadster and the new Model S sedan, still standing. Which begs the question: why has Tesla made it when so many others have not?
McDonald's Shuts Down Employee Website That Slammed Fast Food
McDonald's Shuts Down Employee Website That Slammed Fast Food:
McDonald's has shut down its internal employee website following complaints from workers and a recent post saying that they should avoid eating fast food.
McDonald's has shut down its internal employee website following complaints from workers and a recent post saying that they should avoid eating fast food.
What America Would Look Like If Libertarians Got Their Way | Alternet
What America Would Look Like If Libertarians Got Their Way | Alternet:
What if you cut all benefits? What if all of public life were a giant competition? What libertarianism would look like in real life.
Look at Houston for clues... or most of Texas, for that matter.
What if you cut all benefits? What if all of public life were a giant competition? What libertarianism would look like in real life.
Look at Houston for clues... or most of Texas, for that matter.
WSJ Op-Ed Bemoans the End of White Rule in America | Alternet
WSJ Op-Ed Bemoans the End of White Rule in America | Alternet:
Joseph Epstein argues that we need more rich white men in power, preferably WASPs.
Joseph Epstein argues that we need more rich white men in power, preferably WASPs.
MUST WATCH VIDEO: Glenn Greenwald Schools MSNBC Host in What Journalism Actually Is | Alternet
MUST WATCH VIDEO: Glenn Greenwald Schools MSNBC Host in What Journalism Actually Is | Alternet:
'I do defend Snowden just as MSNBC defends Obama 24 hours a day.'
'I do defend Snowden just as MSNBC defends Obama 24 hours a day.'
How to Fix the Economy in 13 Easy Charts | Alternet
How to Fix the Economy in 13 Easy Charts | Alternet:
Policies that ensure broadly shared prosperity should be policymakers’ foremost priorities in 2014.
Policies that ensure broadly shared prosperity should be policymakers’ foremost priorities in 2014.
Chris Christie Officials Messed With Bridge Traffic Despite Being Warned About Congestion Problems
Chris Christie Officials Messed With Bridge Traffic Despite Being Warned About Congestion Problems:
New documents reveal that a high-ranking official in the administration of New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie (R) knew that Fort Lee, N.J., had issues with traffic congestion around the George Washington Bridge, long before he authorized a seemingly unnecessary study that closed down lanes to the bridge and made traffic even worse.
New documents reveal that a high-ranking official in the administration of New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie (R) knew that Fort Lee, N.J., had issues with traffic congestion around the George Washington Bridge, long before he authorized a seemingly unnecessary study that closed down lanes to the bridge and made traffic even worse.
Obama to Congress: Let Us Try Gitmo Prisoners in US
Obama to Congress: Let Us Try Gitmo Prisoners in US:
President Barack Obama on Thursday gave credit to Congress for relaxing restrictions on transferring detainees from the U.S. prison at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, to the custody of foreign governments but said lawmakers need to go further.
President Barack Obama on Thursday gave credit to Congress for relaxing restrictions on transferring detainees from the U.S. prison at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, to the custody of foreign governments but said lawmakers need to go further.
The National Memo » Americans Say U.S. Congress Is Worst Ever: Poll
The National Memo » Americans Say U.S. Congress Is Worst Ever: Poll:
Two thirds of Americans say the current Congress is the worst ever, while three quarters slammed the “do-nothing” legislature, a CNN/ORC International poll found Thursday.
Two thirds of Americans say the current Congress is the worst ever, while three quarters slammed the “do-nothing” legislature, a CNN/ORC International poll found Thursday.
The National Memo » Shaft The Long-Term Unemployed And The GOP’s Other 2014 New Year’s Resolutions
The National Memo » Shaft The Long-Term Unemployed And The GOP’s Other 2014 New Year’s Resolutions:
Right now, Republicans are thrilled with themselves.
In 2013, they prevented both gun safety and immigration reforms, while enjoying the adrenaline rush of holding the economy hostage and actually shutting down the government for 16 days.
And because HealthCare.gov got off to such a craptastic start, they’re currently poised to keep their House majority, which they were able to retain in 2012 even though their nominees received more than a million fewer votes than Democratic candidates.
So what’s this merry band of total bummers planning for 2014? More of the same.
Right now, Republicans are thrilled with themselves.
In 2013, they prevented both gun safety and immigration reforms, while enjoying the adrenaline rush of holding the economy hostage and actually shutting down the government for 16 days.
And because HealthCare.gov got off to such a craptastic start, they’re currently poised to keep their House majority, which they were able to retain in 2012 even though their nominees received more than a million fewer votes than Democratic candidates.
So what’s this merry band of total bummers planning for 2014? More of the same.
The National Memo » Why The Right Should Support Boosting Minimum Wage, Too
The National Memo » Why The Right Should Support Boosting Minimum Wage, Too:
I’ve heard a lot of goofy arguments against raising the federal minimum wage. The silliest goes like this: “You want to raise the minimum wage to $15? Why not $50? Why not $100?”
Of course, that’s not a real argument. Yet I hear it a lot, which means it probably originates somewhere in the nation’s vast menagerie of conservative talk-show hosts.
I’ve heard a lot of goofy arguments against raising the federal minimum wage. The silliest goes like this: “You want to raise the minimum wage to $15? Why not $50? Why not $100?”
Of course, that’s not a real argument. Yet I hear it a lot, which means it probably originates somewhere in the nation’s vast menagerie of conservative talk-show hosts.
Why the Internet Giants Oppose Federal Surveillance | Alternet
Why the Internet Giants Oppose Federal Surveillance | Alternet:
IT companies won't address the privacy implications of selling Americans' personal information to online advertisers.
IT companies won't address the privacy implications of selling Americans' personal information to online advertisers.
Noam Chomsky: The Nutty Antics of Right-Wingers Distract Us from the Agenda of the 1% | Alternet
Noam Chomsky: The Nutty Antics of Right-Wingers Distract Us from the Agenda of the 1% | Alternet:
The power of the Tea Party doesn’t come from their numbers -- it's their financial backers, Chomsky argues.
The power of the Tea Party doesn’t come from their numbers -- it's their financial backers, Chomsky argues.
50 Is the New 65: Older Americans Are Getting Booted from Their Jobs -- and Denied New Opportunities | Alternet
50 Is the New 65: Older Americans Are Getting Booted from Their Jobs -- and Denied New Opportunities | Alternet:
Age discrimination could be headed for you, sooner than you think.
Age discrimination could be headed for you, sooner than you think.
Tuesday, December 24, 2013
The Incredible Activism of Younger Generations Will Make You A Lot Less Depressed About the Future | Alternet
The Incredible Activism of Younger Generations Will Make You A Lot Less Depressed About the Future | Alternet:
Students and youth have the power to create the kind of future they want to live in.
Students and youth have the power to create the kind of future they want to live in.
Bill O'Reilly's War on Jesus | Robert Scheer
Bill O'Reilly's War on Jesus | Robert Scheer:
Maybe it is time to put Christ back in Christmas. Bill O'Reilly annually demands we acknowledge that the man, or myth, that has been moved to the center of this once pagan ritual be properly identified with a religion, or philosophy as he puts it, that carries a moral message. True, the nation's early Puritan settlers considered the holiday somewhat blasphemous, but we obviously are in need of moral guidance from any quarter that is plausible.
Maybe it is time to put Christ back in Christmas. Bill O'Reilly annually demands we acknowledge that the man, or myth, that has been moved to the center of this once pagan ritual be properly identified with a religion, or philosophy as he puts it, that carries a moral message. True, the nation's early Puritan settlers considered the holiday somewhat blasphemous, but we obviously are in need of moral guidance from any quarter that is plausible.
The Right-Wing Is Filled with Biblical Illiterates -- They'd Be Shocked by the Teachings of Jesus if They Ever Bothered to Study Them | Alternet
The Right-Wing Is Filled with Biblical Illiterates -- They'd Be Shocked by the Teachings of Jesus if They Ever Bothered to Study Them | Alternet:
It's preposterous to suggest that Jesus wouldn't have supported food stamps.
It's preposterous to suggest that Jesus wouldn't have supported food stamps.
Monday, December 23, 2013
Daily Kos: Unemployment benefits and the fight for the liberal empowerment agenda
Daily Kos: Unemployment benefits and the fight for the liberal empowerment agenda:
There are a lot of things not to like from a progressive perspective about the so-called Ryan-Murray compromise budget approved this past Wednesday by the Senate and on its way to President Obama's desk. Perhaps the biggest is the expiration of long-term unemployment insurance benefits. These cuts will provide a very inopportune lump of coal in the stockings of the least fortunate right at the time that they need these benefits the most. And with Republicans in charge of the House of Representatives, the probability of these benefits being restored once they expire seems barely a stitch above zero.
There are a lot of things not to like from a progressive perspective about the so-called Ryan-Murray compromise budget approved this past Wednesday by the Senate and on its way to President Obama's desk. Perhaps the biggest is the expiration of long-term unemployment insurance benefits. These cuts will provide a very inopportune lump of coal in the stockings of the least fortunate right at the time that they need these benefits the most. And with Republicans in charge of the House of Representatives, the probability of these benefits being restored once they expire seems barely a stitch above zero.
Daily Kos: A Democratic contract with America: How to retake the House and combat economic inequality
Daily Kos: A Democratic contract with America: How to retake the House and combat economic inequality:
DEMOCRATIC CONTRACT WITH AMERICA
PREAMBLE:
As Democratic Members of the House of Representatives and as citizens seeking to join that body, we propose a clear set of policies to address the most important issue of our time: income inequality...
DEMOCRATIC CONTRACT WITH AMERICA
PREAMBLE:
As Democratic Members of the House of Representatives and as citizens seeking to join that body, we propose a clear set of policies to address the most important issue of our time: income inequality...
The National Memo » Banks Demand Pity Party Over Volcker Rule Losses
The National Memo » Banks Demand Pity Party Over Volcker Rule Losses
Whatever successes might have been attained within the hundreds of pages of regulations implementing the Volcker Rule, our nation’s bureaucrats must have known they couldn’t do anything that would force banks to unearth any long-buried losses in their financial reports. Because then many bankers would feel victimized. They would demand that regulators rush to soothe their hurt feelings. And America would never be the same until the banks could keep those losses unrecognized again.
Whatever successes might have been attained within the hundreds of pages of regulations implementing the Volcker Rule, our nation’s bureaucrats must have known they couldn’t do anything that would force banks to unearth any long-buried losses in their financial reports. Because then many bankers would feel victimized. They would demand that regulators rush to soothe their hurt feelings. And America would never be the same until the banks could keep those losses unrecognized again.
The National Memo » Who Had A Terrible Year? History Will Remember The GOP’s Miserable 2013
The National Memo » Who Had A Terrible Year? History Will Remember The GOP’s Miserable 2013:
It would be easy to imagine President Mitt Romney’s first year-end press conference beginning with a question like, “Mr. President, which do you consider your greatest accomplishment, the record stock market, the nearly unprecedented deficit reduction or the best year for job growth since 2005?”
It would be easy to imagine President Mitt Romney’s first year-end press conference beginning with a question like, “Mr. President, which do you consider your greatest accomplishment, the record stock market, the nearly unprecedented deficit reduction or the best year for job growth since 2005?”
Is Obama Backing Away From Obamacare? | Bill George
Is Obama Backing Away From Obamacare? | Bill George:
The latest announcement from the White House on Thursday, December 19, seems to indicate that even President Obama is backing away from Obamacare.
Grow a spine, man!
The latest announcement from the White House on Thursday, December 19, seems to indicate that even President Obama is backing away from Obamacare.
Grow a spine, man!
House Republicans Opposed To Extended Unemployment Benefits Could Pay The Price In 2014: Poll
House Republicans Opposed To Extended Unemployment Benefits Could Pay The Price In 2014: Poll:
An overwhelming majority of voters are opposed to cutting off extended jobless benefits for the unemployed, a poll revealed on Monday.
An overwhelming majority of voters are opposed to cutting off extended jobless benefits for the unemployed, a poll revealed on Monday.
U.S. Flouts Its Own Advice in Procuring Overseas Clothing - NYTimes.com
U.S. Flouts Its Own Advice in Procuring Overseas Clothing - NYTimes.com:
One of the world’s biggest clothing buyers, the United States government spends more than $1.5 billion a year at factories overseas, acquiring everything from the royal blue shirts worn by airport security workers to the olive button-downs required for forest rangers and the camouflage pants sold to troops on military bases.
One of the world’s biggest clothing buyers, the United States government spends more than $1.5 billion a year at factories overseas, acquiring everything from the royal blue shirts worn by airport security workers to the olive button-downs required for forest rangers and the camouflage pants sold to troops on military bases.
How America's Kids Got Hooked on Big Pharma's Meth | Alternet
How America's Kids Got Hooked on Big Pharma's Meth | Alternet:
Are Adderall and Ritalin the best answer for ADHD? NYT Reporter Alan Schwarz and Gabor Mate get to the bottom of the problems around these issues.
Are Adderall and Ritalin the best answer for ADHD? NYT Reporter Alan Schwarz and Gabor Mate get to the bottom of the problems around these issues.
How Our Food Has Become a Dangerous Addiction | Alternet
How Our Food Has Become a Dangerous Addiction | Alternet:
In a new book, "Industrial Diet" Anthony Winson writes about the evolving story of the degradation of our food and the rise of "pseudo foods."
In a new book, "Industrial Diet" Anthony Winson writes about the evolving story of the degradation of our food and the rise of "pseudo foods."
When the World’s Richest Billionaire Owns Your Paper | Alternet
When the World’s Richest Billionaire Owns Your Paper | Alternet: .
The New York Times covers Carlos Slim—carefully.
The New York Times covers Carlos Slim—carefully.
The Arc of Justice and the Long Run: Hope, History, and Unpredictability | Alternet
The Arc of Justice and the Long Run: Hope, History, and Unpredictability | Alternet:
I don’t know what’s coming. I do know that, whatever it is, some of it will be terrible, but some of it will be miraculous.
I don’t know what’s coming. I do know that, whatever it is, some of it will be terrible, but some of it will be miraculous.
How Elizabeth Warren's Privacy Rules Will Fight the Corporate Snoops | Alternet
How Elizabeth Warren's Privacy Rules Will Fight the Corporate Snoops | Alternet:
Warren and her colleagues are fighting to chop down barriers for job seekers.
Warren and her colleagues are fighting to chop down barriers for job seekers.
The Hard-to-Believe, Cruel Things Corporate Executives Say About Americans Struggling to Get By | Alternet
The Hard-to-Believe, Cruel Things Corporate Executives Say About Americans Struggling to Get By | Alternet
Some of what they say is almost too outlandish to believe they actually said it.
Some of what they say is almost too outlandish to believe they actually said it.
Sunday, December 22, 2013
10 Ways Right Wingers Went Cuckoo This Week -- 'Duck Dynasty' Meltdown Edition | Alternet
10 Ways Right Wingers Went Cuckoo This Week -- 'Duck Dynasty' Meltdown Edition | Alternet:
In every cloud there is a silver lining. Phil Robertson may have lost his reality show over his vile comments about gays and blacks unrepentantly spewed to GQ magazine, but look at all the marvelous new friends he made, many who seem ready to anoint him to sainthood. If Mother Teresa had only known that all she had to do was imply that homosexuality leads to bestiality and promiscuity (in that order) and black people thoroughly enjoyed their subjugation in the Jim Crow south, she would not have had to spend so much time taking care of all those poor, sick people.
In every cloud there is a silver lining. Phil Robertson may have lost his reality show over his vile comments about gays and blacks unrepentantly spewed to GQ magazine, but look at all the marvelous new friends he made, many who seem ready to anoint him to sainthood. If Mother Teresa had only known that all she had to do was imply that homosexuality leads to bestiality and promiscuity (in that order) and black people thoroughly enjoyed their subjugation in the Jim Crow south, she would not have had to spend so much time taking care of all those poor, sick people.
Saturday, December 21, 2013
Daily Kos: The pitchforks are coming out in Europe
Daily Kos: The pitchforks are coming out in Europe:
When you think of governments ready to fall in Europe, you probably think of Greece or Spain.
Instead it is Italy that is warning of a violent insurrection.
When you think of governments ready to fall in Europe, you probably think of Greece or Spain.
Instead it is Italy that is warning of a violent insurrection.
Friday, December 20, 2013
VICTORY! Canadian High Court Strikes Down All Anti-Prostitution Laws | Alternet
VICTORY! Canadian High Court Strikes Down All Anti-Prostitution Laws | Alternet:
In a landmark decision, Canada’s highest court has struck down all of the nation’s anti-prostitution laws as unconstitutional in a unanimous judgment, Toronto Star reported.
In a landmark decision, Canada’s highest court has struck down all of the nation’s anti-prostitution laws as unconstitutional in a unanimous judgment, Toronto Star reported.
9 Incredibly Important Things That Happened In 2013 That Most People Aren't Talking About | ThinkProgress
9 Incredibly Important Things That Happened In 2013 That Most People Aren't Talking About | ThinkProgress:
In a media environment increasingly dominated by celebrity, scandal and the political horserace, many of the most important stories receive scant coverage. Here are nine hugely important things that happened in 2013 that are rarely discussed
In a media environment increasingly dominated by celebrity, scandal and the political horserace, many of the most important stories receive scant coverage. Here are nine hugely important things that happened in 2013 that are rarely discussed
Why Cops Pull The Trigger: Pulling Back The Curtain On Police Shootings | ThinkProgress
Why Cops Pull The Trigger: Pulling Back The Curtain On Police Shootings | ThinkProgress:
Last Friday, Los Angeles Police Department officers shot dead a mentally ill man who had already gotten out of his car after a police chase with his hands up. The incident, which was broadcast on national television for all to judge, was the latest in a string of more than a dozen police shootings that have surfaced in the news just in the last few months. Before that, it was the fatal shooting of 19-year-old Tyler Comstock after his father called the cops to report that his son drove away in his car. And other incidents involved death during traffic stop, calls to police for help with a mentally ill family member, and a man whose watering hose was mistaken for a gun.
Last Friday, Los Angeles Police Department officers shot dead a mentally ill man who had already gotten out of his car after a police chase with his hands up. The incident, which was broadcast on national television for all to judge, was the latest in a string of more than a dozen police shootings that have surfaced in the news just in the last few months. Before that, it was the fatal shooting of 19-year-old Tyler Comstock after his father called the cops to report that his son drove away in his car. And other incidents involved death during traffic stop, calls to police for help with a mentally ill family member, and a man whose watering hose was mistaken for a gun.
9 Things the Media Called the 'War on Men' in 2013 | Alternet
9 Things the Media Called the 'War on Men' in 2013 | Alternet:
Sexism, against men, is everywhere these days.
Sexism, against men, is everywhere these days.
Inside the Megyn Kelly Phenomenon: Right-Wing Snarls and Sexy Smiles Add Up to Monster Ratings | Alternet
Inside the Megyn Kelly Phenomenon: Right-Wing Snarls and Sexy Smiles Add Up to Monster Ratings | Alternet:
Kelly's combined 2.5 million viewers are beating CNN and MSNBC combined; can her toxic mix of beauty and hate make it in the long haul?
Roger Ailes truly is an evil genius.
Kelly's combined 2.5 million viewers are beating CNN and MSNBC combined; can her toxic mix of beauty and hate make it in the long haul?
Roger Ailes truly is an evil genius.
Robert Reich: What Will It Take for Us to Get Back to Being a Decent Society? | Alternet
Robert Reich: What Will It Take for Us to Get Back to Being a Decent Society? | Alternet:
. . . Now that we're second only to Romania for child poverty.
We're Number Two!!!
. . . Now that we're second only to Romania for child poverty.
We're Number Two!!!
How Elizabeth Warren Upset the DC Establishment's Plans to Weaken Social Security | Alternet
How Elizabeth Warren Upset the DC Establishment's Plans to Weaken Social Security | Alternet:
Warren's support for raising Social Security benefits could be exactly what we need to move the discussion of retirement income in a positive direction.
Warren's support for raising Social Security benefits could be exactly what we need to move the discussion of retirement income in a positive direction.
Why High Unemployment Actually Destroys the Fabric of American Life | Alternet
Why High Unemployment Actually Destroys the Fabric of American Life | Alternet: .
The pursuit of happiness is about the thrill of achievement in life -- three decades of Reaganomics have taken that away.
The pursuit of happiness is about the thrill of achievement in life -- three decades of Reaganomics have taken that away.
Economic Opportunity Is Lowest In the Republican Bible Belt, Major Study Finds | Alternet
Economic Opportunity Is Lowest In the Republican Bible Belt, Major Study Finds | Alternet:
Class-rigidity is most extreme in the South, according to leading Harvard and Berkeley economists.
Class-rigidity is most extreme in the South, according to leading Harvard and Berkeley economists.
Stewart Scolds Fox News For Defending Duck Dynasty Star's Anti-Gay Remarks | Alternet
Stewart Scolds Fox News For Defending Duck Dynasty Star's Anti-Gay Remarks | Alternet:
“Look, I think what the guy said is ignorant but I also have an inclination to support a world where saying ignorant sh*t on television doesn’t get you kicked off that medium.”
“Look, I think what the guy said is ignorant but I also have an inclination to support a world where saying ignorant sh*t on television doesn’t get you kicked off that medium.”
Why the GOP Is So Extremist and Reactionary | Alternet
Why the GOP Is So Extremist and Reactionary | Alternet:
Is there a way to get past their scorched-earth approach to politics?
Is there a way to get past their scorched-earth approach to politics?
5 Ways the Christian Right Perverts Religion to Push Inhumane, Unfettered Capitalism | Alternet
5 Ways the Christian Right Perverts Religion to Push Inhumane, Unfettered Capitalism | Alternet:
The Christian right works hard to craft theological arguments to support corporate policies.
The Christian right works hard to craft theological arguments to support corporate policies.
Shocker: Right-Wingers Who DON'T Want to Destroy Your Retirement? A Promising New Trend in Washington | Alternet
Shocker: Right-Wingers Who DON'T Want to Destroy Your Retirement? A Promising New Trend in Washington | Alternet:
Is this the beginning of a productive debate over modernizing Social Security?
Is this the beginning of a productive debate over modernizing Social Security?
The National Memo » The GOP’s Fight Has Just Begun
The National Memo » The GOP’s Fight Has Just Begun: .
The Republican civil war, like all civil wars, is even messier than it looks. It’s a battle between two different conservative establishments complicated by philosophical struggles across many other fronts. Its resolution will determine whether we are a governable country.
The Republican civil war, like all civil wars, is even messier than it looks. It’s a battle between two different conservative establishments complicated by philosophical struggles across many other fronts. Its resolution will determine whether we are a governable country.
Gov't Offers A Stopgap Health Insurance Option
Gov't Offers A Stopgap Health Insurance Option:
Trying to head off more bad news over the chaotic rollout of President Barack Obama's health care law, the administration Thursday offered stopgap options so people whose existing plans got canceled are not penalized.
Trying to head off more bad news over the chaotic rollout of President Barack Obama's health care law, the administration Thursday offered stopgap options so people whose existing plans got canceled are not penalized.
Industry Groups Give Up On Medicaid Expansion In Big Blow To Obamacare
Industry Groups Give Up On Medicaid Expansion In Big Blow To Obamacare:
There are growing signs at the state level that key health care industry players in the push to expand Medicaid under Obamacare are calling it quits for now, pessimistic about getting new legislation passed in the current political environment.
Once again, the heirs of the 'Reagan revolution' screw the poor.
There are growing signs at the state level that key health care industry players in the push to expand Medicaid under Obamacare are calling it quits for now, pessimistic about getting new legislation passed in the current political environment.
Once again, the heirs of the 'Reagan revolution' screw the poor.
Thursday, December 19, 2013
US Budget Deal: The Good, Bad and Stupid | Common Dreams
US Budget Deal: The Good, Bad and Stupid | Common Dreams:
It's encouraging we have a budget, but the economic ignorance continues in Washington, especially among Republicans
It's encouraging we have a budget, but the economic ignorance continues in Washington, especially among Republicans
U.N. Investigator: North Korean Prisons Like Nothing Seen Since Nazi Atrocities | ThinkProgress
U.N. Investigator: North Korean Prisons Like Nothing Seen Since Nazi Atrocities | ThinkProgress:
North Koreans forced into prison camps live out an existence unlike any seen since the killing fields of Cambodia or the horrors of World War II, according to the head of a U.N. panel assigned to investigate Pyongyang’s human rights violations.
North Koreans forced into prison camps live out an existence unlike any seen since the killing fields of Cambodia or the horrors of World War II, according to the head of a U.N. panel assigned to investigate Pyongyang’s human rights violations.
Daily Kos: Bloomberg: Homelessness is 'just the way God works.' Especially with Bloomberg as mayor.
Daily Kos: Bloomberg: Homelessness is 'just the way God works.' Especially with Bloomberg as mayor.:
Outgoing New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg seems to be making an all-out push to be remembered as a heartless plutocrat (which he is).
Outgoing New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg seems to be making an all-out push to be remembered as a heartless plutocrat (which he is).
Right-Wing Front Group Poses as Journalists to Attack Investigation Into Political Money Laundering | Alternet
Right-Wing Front Group Poses as Journalists to Attack Investigation Into Political Money Laundering | Alternet:
Wisconsin's secretive right-wing political operators are nervous.
Wisconsin's secretive right-wing political operators are nervous.
The National Memo » WATCH: Netflix Releases Trailer For Mitt Romney Documentary
The National Memo » WATCH: Netflix Releases Trailer For Mitt Romney Documentary:
To further bloody the nose of traditional television and movie outlets, Netflix will release an original documentary on January 24—Mitt, which will premiere at the Sundance Film Festival a week before its Netflix release, is a behind-the-scenes look at Republican nominee Mitt Romney’s 2012 presidential campaign.
To further bloody the nose of traditional television and movie outlets, Netflix will release an original documentary on January 24—Mitt, which will premiere at the Sundance Film Festival a week before its Netflix release, is a behind-the-scenes look at Republican nominee Mitt Romney’s 2012 presidential campaign.
The National Memo » No Joke: Speaker Boehner Rents Washington Apartment From Tanning Lobbyist
The National Memo » No Joke: Speaker Boehner Rents Washington Apartment From Tanning Lobbyist:
Since the Washington Post first reported in 2006 that House Speaker John Boehner (R-OH) rents his Washington D.C. apartment from a lobbyist, both Boehner and the political operative have stressed that their professional relationships have remained separate. But now, for skeptics everywhere, the proof is in the Speaker’s skin tone.
Since the Washington Post first reported in 2006 that House Speaker John Boehner (R-OH) rents his Washington D.C. apartment from a lobbyist, both Boehner and the political operative have stressed that their professional relationships have remained separate. But now, for skeptics everywhere, the proof is in the Speaker’s skin tone.
The National Memo » Always Low Wages? Walmart May Have Some Choices
The National Memo » Always Low Wages? Walmart May Have Some Choices:
We’ve already looked at the benefit to McDonald’s of having its workers subsidized by state and federal aid. Now, its Walmart’s turn. Recall our discussion last month on the related subject of “How McDonald’s and Walmart Became Welfare Queens.” We learned that employees of these two companies are often the largest recipients of aid in their states.
We’ve already looked at the benefit to McDonald’s of having its workers subsidized by state and federal aid. Now, its Walmart’s turn. Recall our discussion last month on the related subject of “How McDonald’s and Walmart Became Welfare Queens.” We learned that employees of these two companies are often the largest recipients of aid in their states.
Jeff Bezos Is Doing Huge Business with the CIA, While Keeping His Washington Post Readers in the Dark | Alternet
Jeff Bezos Is Doing Huge Business with the CIA, While Keeping His Washington Post Readers in the Dark | Alternet:
Amazon has a bad history of currying favor with the U.S. government’s “national security” establishment.
Amazon has a bad history of currying favor with the U.S. government’s “national security” establishment.
How Elizabeth Warren Is Trying to Keep Employers from Digging into Your Credit Score | Alternet
How Elizabeth Warren Is Trying to Keep Employers from Digging into Your Credit Score | Alternet:
With credit scores being exploited to cut people out of the job market, here's how the senator is fighting back.
With credit scores being exploited to cut people out of the job market, here's how the senator is fighting back.
Why You May Never Want to Eat Shrimp Again | Alternet
Why You May Never Want to Eat Shrimp Again | Alternet:
A whopping 85 percent of the shrimp we eat is imported and when it arrives in the U.S., almost none of this food is ever inspected.
OH NOES!
A whopping 85 percent of the shrimp we eat is imported and when it arrives in the U.S., almost none of this food is ever inspected.
OH NOES!
The Media's Absurd Hysteria About Teens and Pot | Alternet
The Media's Absurd Hysteria About Teens and Pot | Alternet:
There's very little data to suggest that cannabis causes long-lasting memory problems or an increased risk of schizophrenia.
There's very little data to suggest that cannabis causes long-lasting memory problems or an increased risk of schizophrenia.
Age of Crushing Anxiety: How the Bottom Fell Out in America | Alternet
Age of Crushing Anxiety: How the Bottom Fell Out in America | Alternet:
How economic security was destroyed.
How economic security was destroyed.
Meet the American Hedge Fund Billionaire Who Could Start a 'Holy War' in the Middle East | Alternet
Meet the American Hedge Fund Billionaire Who Could Start a 'Holy War' in the Middle East | Alternet:
Henry Swieca funds Temple Institute, an extremist group eyeing Islam's third holiest site.
Henry Swieca funds Temple Institute, an extremist group eyeing Islam's third holiest site.
Wednesday, December 18, 2013
Greenwald Reveals 'Crux' of NSA Spying: The 'Elimination of Individual Privacy Worldwide' | Common Dreams
Greenwald Reveals 'Crux' of NSA Spying: The 'Elimination of Individual Privacy Worldwide' | Common Dreams:
'Every story we've done is driven by this overarching theme,' journalist tells EU panel
'Every story we've done is driven by this overarching theme,' journalist tells EU panel
Obama Jabs Putin, Picks Openly Gay Delegates For Winter Olympics In Russia
Obama Jabs Putin, Picks Openly Gay Delegates For Winter Olympics In Russia:
President Barack Obama on Tuesday announced his delegates to the 2014 Winter Olympic Games in Sochi, Russia. And, in what may be a thumb in the eye to Russian President Vladimir Putin over his crackdown on gay rights, two of Obama's delegates are openly gay.
President Barack Obama on Tuesday announced his delegates to the 2014 Winter Olympic Games in Sochi, Russia. And, in what may be a thumb in the eye to Russian President Vladimir Putin over his crackdown on gay rights, two of Obama's delegates are openly gay.
John Bolton: Edward Snowden 'Ought To Swing From A Tall Oak Tree'
John Bolton: Edward Snowden 'Ought To Swing From A Tall Oak Tree':
Former U.S. ambassador to the United Nations John Bolton spoke out against former government contractor Edward Snowden for leaking classified details on the National Security Agency's controversial surveillance practices, suggesting Snowden should "swing from a tall oak tree" as punishment.
Funny! I've often said the same thing about Bolton...
Former U.S. ambassador to the United Nations John Bolton spoke out against former government contractor Edward Snowden for leaking classified details on the National Security Agency's controversial surveillance practices, suggesting Snowden should "swing from a tall oak tree" as punishment.
Funny! I've often said the same thing about Bolton...
'60 Minutes' Benghazi Debacle Named 'Error Of The Year'
'60 Minutes' Benghazi Debacle Named 'Error Of The Year':
As if things weren't bad enough for "60 Minutes," the newsmagazine has now been given a prize nobody wants: Poynter's "Error of the Year" award, which it won for its disastrously botched story on the Benghazi attacks.
As if things weren't bad enough for "60 Minutes," the newsmagazine has now been given a prize nobody wants: Poynter's "Error of the Year" award, which it won for its disastrously botched story on the Benghazi attacks.
Scorcese and DiCaprio's 'Wolf of Wall Street' -- A White-Collar Crime Caper in a Financial Era of Excess | Alternet
Scorcese and DiCaprio's 'Wolf of Wall Street' -- A White-Collar Crime Caper in a Financial Era of Excess | Alternet:
"A film that is polished and punchy, chock-full of beans and throwing out sparks."
This was a great book so I hope the movie is half as entertaining!
"A film that is polished and punchy, chock-full of beans and throwing out sparks."
This was a great book so I hope the movie is half as entertaining!
'This Is the Most Closed, Control Freak Administration I've Ever Covered' -- Press Freedoms in the Obama Years | Alternet
'This Is the Most Closed, Control Freak Administration I've Ever Covered' -- Press Freedoms in the Obama Years | Alternet:
There's an uneasy alliance of the Obama administration and the media.
There's an uneasy alliance of the Obama administration and the media.
How Elizabeth Warren Upset the DC Establishment's Plans to Weaken Social Security | Alternet
How Elizabeth Warren Upset the DC Establishment's Plans to Weaken Social Security | Alternet:
Warren's support for raising Social Security benefits could be exactly what we need to move the discussion of retirement income in a positive direction.
Warren's support for raising Social Security benefits could be exactly what we need to move the discussion of retirement income in a positive direction.
The Country That's Dismantling Its System of Privilege for the 1% -- Can the U.S. Be Next? | Alternet
The Country That's Dismantling Its System of Privilege for the 1% -- Can the U.S. Be Next? | Alternet:
It's time for the US to look abroad for answers to our big economic problems.
It's time for the US to look abroad for answers to our big economic problems.
How America Created a Low-Wage Work Swamp | Alternet
How America Created a Low-Wage Work Swamp | Alternet:
For decades, both parties supplanted a push for higher wages with well-intended public aid. The result: calamity
For decades, both parties supplanted a push for higher wages with well-intended public aid. The result: calamity
How Rev. Billy Graham Taught the Republican Party to Sacrifice the Poor on the Altar of Big-Business | Alternet
How Rev. Billy Graham Taught the Republican Party to Sacrifice the Poor on the Altar of Big-Business | Alternet:
Graham turned biblical Jesus into a supply-side economist.
Graham turned biblical Jesus into a supply-side economist.
Bipartisan Budget Deal On Cusp Of Final Passage
Bipartisan Budget Deal On Cusp Of Final Passage:
A modest, bipartisan budget pact designed to keep Washington from lurching from fiscal crisis to fiscal crisis and ease the harshest effects of automatic budget cuts is on the brink of passing the Senate.
A modest, bipartisan budget pact designed to keep Washington from lurching from fiscal crisis to fiscal crisis and ease the harshest effects of automatic budget cuts is on the brink of passing the Senate.
The Conservative Media Arms Race Coming To An Internet Near You
The Conservative Media Arms Race Coming To An Internet Near You:
Last week, with two high-profile acquisitions, a conservative media company catapulted itself from successful but largely below-the-radar company to a player with a portfolio that could make it the next news empire on the right.
Last week, with two high-profile acquisitions, a conservative media company catapulted itself from successful but largely below-the-radar company to a player with a portfolio that could make it the next news empire on the right.
The National Memo » SHARE THIS: Steve Stockman’s Campaign Office Is Disgusting
The National Memo » SHARE THIS: Steve Stockman’s Campaign Office Is Disgusting:
When U.S. Representative Steve Stockman (R-TX) launched his extreme-longshot bid to unseat Senate Minority Whip John Cornyn (R-TX), The National Memo noted that the genuinely crazy congressman’s long history of legal woes could cause major problems for his campaign.
Barely a week later, one of those troubles — a campaign office that Webster, TX, officials shut down in November for multiple safety violations — is already coming back to haunt them.
When U.S. Representative Steve Stockman (R-TX) launched his extreme-longshot bid to unseat Senate Minority Whip John Cornyn (R-TX), The National Memo noted that the genuinely crazy congressman’s long history of legal woes could cause major problems for his campaign.
Barely a week later, one of those troubles — a campaign office that Webster, TX, officials shut down in November for multiple safety violations — is already coming back to haunt them.
The National Memo » POLL: The Senate’s Most Powerful Republican Is The Nation’s Least Popular Senator
The National Memo » POLL: The Senate’s Most Powerful Republican Is The Nation’s Least Popular Senator:
Another poll shows Senator Mitch McConnell (R-KY) in a statistical tie with the likely Democratic challenger for his Senate seat, Kentucky secretary of state Alison Lundergan Grimes.
Another poll shows Senator Mitch McConnell (R-KY) in a statistical tie with the likely Democratic challenger for his Senate seat, Kentucky secretary of state Alison Lundergan Grimes.
The National Memo » The Washington-Wall Street Mutual Backscratching Society
The National Memo » The Washington-Wall Street Mutual Backscratching Society:
Timmy Geithner has landed.
The Secretary of the Treasury in President Obama’s first term resigned early this year, and we lost track of him for months. But in November, Geithner reappeared, having spun himself through Washington’s revolving door — whoosh, whoosh, whoosh — and flung himself all the way up to Wall Street, landing softly in the cushy quarters of Warburg Pincus, one of America’s top 10 private-equity empires. Yes, the guy who was responsible for rescuing and regulating Wall Street’s too-big-to-fail, multibillion-dollar, financial casinos is now president of one.
Timmy Geithner has landed.
The Secretary of the Treasury in President Obama’s first term resigned early this year, and we lost track of him for months. But in November, Geithner reappeared, having spun himself through Washington’s revolving door — whoosh, whoosh, whoosh — and flung himself all the way up to Wall Street, landing softly in the cushy quarters of Warburg Pincus, one of America’s top 10 private-equity empires. Yes, the guy who was responsible for rescuing and regulating Wall Street’s too-big-to-fail, multibillion-dollar, financial casinos is now president of one.
The National Memo » What If Every Voter Denied Medicaid Expansion By Republicans Voted Democratic?
The National Memo » What If Every Voter Denied Medicaid Expansion By Republicans Voted Democratic?:
A new report from the Kaiser Family Foundation estimates that 4.8 million Americans will be denied health insurance because Republican governors and legislatures have refused to expand Medicaid as part of the Affordable Care Act.
A new report from the Kaiser Family Foundation estimates that 4.8 million Americans will be denied health insurance because Republican governors and legislatures have refused to expand Medicaid as part of the Affordable Care Act.
The Volcker Rule: Wins, Losses and Toss-ups | The Nation
The Volcker Rule: Wins, Losses and Toss-ups | The Nation:
Despite being vastly outnumbered, reformers made a real difference.
Despite being vastly outnumbered, reformers made a real difference.
The Sad Decline of ‘60 Minutes’ Continues With This Week’s NSA Whitewash | The Nation
The Sad Decline of ‘60 Minutes’ Continues With This Week’s NSA Whitewash | The Nation:
The sad decline and fall of 60 Minutes has been a long time coming, but now it is nearly complete. Just in recent months: the horrid hit on Americans with disabilities, the Lara Logan affair, and now tonight’s whitewash of NSA (and bonus slam vs. Edward Snowden), hosted by longtime FBI/police/NSA propagandist John Miller. Good night and good luck!
The sad decline and fall of 60 Minutes has been a long time coming, but now it is nearly complete. Just in recent months: the horrid hit on Americans with disabilities, the Lara Logan affair, and now tonight’s whitewash of NSA (and bonus slam vs. Edward Snowden), hosted by longtime FBI/police/NSA propagandist John Miller. Good night and good luck!
Ukraine Crackdown Turns Sinister as Police Beat Pro-Europe Demonstrators and Target Students | Alternet
Ukraine Crackdown Turns Sinister as Police Beat Pro-Europe Demonstrators and Target Students | Alternet:
Riot police indiscriminately attacked hundreds of people during a mass November 30th protest in Kiev.
Riot police indiscriminately attacked hundreds of people during a mass November 30th protest in Kiev.
Activists Urge White House Not to Silence Obama's Climate Adviser and Strong Critic of Keystone XL | Alternet
Activists Urge White House Not to Silence Obama's Climate Adviser and Strong Critic of Keystone XL | Alternet:
Obama taps John Podesta—favored by climate change activists—on the shoulder to advise the country's environmental policy—but why did he then recuse himself from working on the Keystone decision?
Obama taps John Podesta—favored by climate change activists—on the shoulder to advise the country's environmental policy—but why did he then recuse himself from working on the Keystone decision?
TransCanada Begins Injecting Oil Into Southern Leg of Keystone XL Despite Reported Anomalies | Alternet
TransCanada Begins Injecting Oil Into Southern Leg of Keystone XL Despite Reported Anomalies | Alternet:
Even with hundreds of structural problems and two warning letters, the Canadian company moves forward on plans on its pipeline, inspected and found to exhibit both weld flaws and denting.
Even with hundreds of structural problems and two warning letters, the Canadian company moves forward on plans on its pipeline, inspected and found to exhibit both weld flaws and denting.
Open Letter To Government Employees From Whistleblowers | Alternet
Open Letter To Government Employees From Whistleblowers | Alternet:
"Hidden away in offices of various government departments and intelligence agencies are dozens of people who are very much upset by what our societies are turning into. One of them is you."
"Hidden away in offices of various government departments and intelligence agencies are dozens of people who are very much upset by what our societies are turning into. One of them is you."
America Is the Most Inhumane Developed Country on the Planet — Are We Going to Let It Stay That Way? | Alternet
America Is the Most Inhumane Developed Country on the Planet — Are We Going to Let It Stay That Way? | Alternet:
This week marked the 65th anniversary of the signing of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. What would it be like if people in the U.S. knew they had these rights?
This week marked the 65th anniversary of the signing of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. What would it be like if people in the U.S. knew they had these rights?
Tuesday, December 17, 2013
Considering Extinction: Are We Falling Off the Climate Precipice? | Common Dreams
Considering Extinction: Are We Falling Off the Climate Precipice? | Common Dreams:
I grew up planning for my future, wondering which college I would attend, what to study, and later on, where to work, which articles to write, what my next book might be, how to pay a mortgage, and which mountaineering trip I might like to take next.
Now, I wonder about the future of our planet...
I grew up planning for my future, wondering which college I would attend, what to study, and later on, where to work, which articles to write, what my next book might be, how to pay a mortgage, and which mountaineering trip I might like to take next.
Now, I wonder about the future of our planet...
The National Memo » Here’s Why There Won’t Be A Republican Alternative To Obamacare
The National Memo » Here’s Why There Won’t Be A Republican Alternative To Obamacare:
Republicans are sick of people saying they don’t have an alternative to Obamacare.
They have plenty!
And not just, “Don’t get sick! And if you do get sick, die quickly,” as Rep. Alan Grayson (D-FL) said in 2009.
Republicans are sick of people saying they don’t have an alternative to Obamacare.
They have plenty!
And not just, “Don’t get sick! And if you do get sick, die quickly,” as Rep. Alan Grayson (D-FL) said in 2009.
The National Memo » This Congress Makes Us Yearn For ‘Do-Nothing’
The National Memo » This Congress Makes Us Yearn For ‘Do-Nothing’:
This congressional session is historic: It’s the least productive, most unpopular in memory, and makes the 80th Congress, famously labeled “do nothing” by President Harry Truman, appear prolific.
This congressional session is historic: It’s the least productive, most unpopular in memory, and makes the 80th Congress, famously labeled “do nothing” by President Harry Truman, appear prolific.
The End of Free Internet as We Know It? | Alternet
The End of Free Internet as We Know It? | Alternet:
The open Internet is threatened by litigious telecommunication companies and consolidation—a privatization process undermining the very spirit of its creation.
The open Internet is threatened by litigious telecommunication companies and consolidation—a privatization process undermining the very spirit of its creation.
The GOP Is in Total Denial About America's Soaring Poverty Problems | Alternet
The GOP Is in Total Denial About America's Soaring Poverty Problems | Alternet:
In the midst of a shocking rise in inequality, America's right wing continues to behave as if nothing's wrong.
In the midst of a shocking rise in inequality, America's right wing continues to behave as if nothing's wrong.
How Big Food Creates an Illusion of Choice at the Supermarket | Alternet
How Big Food Creates an Illusion of Choice at the Supermarket | Alternet:
Growing and significant consolidation in the food industry puts small competitors at a disadvantage and denies shoppers transparency and consumer choice.
Growing and significant consolidation in the food industry puts small competitors at a disadvantage and denies shoppers transparency and consumer choice.
10 Top Drug War Stories of 2013 | Alternet
10 Top Drug War Stories of 2013 | Alternet:
One of the longest failed wars shows signs of cracks—but it will still be a while until we can see light on the other side.
One of the longest failed wars shows signs of cracks—but it will still be a while until we can see light on the other side.
Pat Buchanan Thinks Vladimir Putin Might Be A Conservative Hero
Pat Buchanan Thinks Vladimir Putin Might Be A Conservative Hero:
Republican pundit Pat Buchanan thinks he and Russian President Vladimir Putin might be kindred spirits.
Republican pundit Pat Buchanan thinks he and Russian President Vladimir Putin might be kindred spirits.
Michigan GOP Senate Candidate Silent On 'Rape Rider' Law
Michigan GOP Senate Candidate Silent On 'Rape Rider' Law:
Just after the Michigan state legislature passed a law banning private insurance companies to bundle abortion care coverage along with state-subsidized plans, the Democrat jockeying for the open seat vacated by Sen. Carl Levin (D-MI) was quick to slam the law as bad for women while the Republican candidate has yet to make a statement.
Just after the Michigan state legislature passed a law banning private insurance companies to bundle abortion care coverage along with state-subsidized plans, the Democrat jockeying for the open seat vacated by Sen. Carl Levin (D-MI) was quick to slam the law as bad for women while the Republican candidate has yet to make a statement.
Monday, December 16, 2013
Why Inequality Matters - NYTimes.com
Why Inequality Matters - NYTimes.com:
Rising inequality isn’t a new concern. Oliver Stone’s movie “Wall Street,” with its portrayal of a rising plutocracy insisting that greed is good, was released in 1987. But politicians, intimidated by cries of “class warfare,” have shied away from making a major issue out of the ever-growing gap between the rich and the rest.
Rising inequality isn’t a new concern. Oliver Stone’s movie “Wall Street,” with its portrayal of a rising plutocracy insisting that greed is good, was released in 1987. But politicians, intimidated by cries of “class warfare,” have shied away from making a major issue out of the ever-growing gap between the rich and the rest.
What Megyn Kelly Did -- And Didn't -- Learn From The Reaction To Her White Santa Segment | ThinkProgress
What Megyn Kelly Did -- And Didn't -- Learn From The Reaction To Her White Santa Segment | ThinkProgress:
Earlier this week, Fox News anchor Megyn Kelly found herself the object of well-deserved criticism, historical and otherwise, after declaring on-air: “I mean, Jesus was a white man, too. He was a historical figure. That’s verifiable fact, as is Santa..."
Earlier this week, Fox News anchor Megyn Kelly found herself the object of well-deserved criticism, historical and otherwise, after declaring on-air: “I mean, Jesus was a white man, too. He was a historical figure. That’s verifiable fact, as is Santa..."
Federal Court Rules Bulk Collection Of Phone Records By NSA Likely Violates Constitution: Founding Fathers 'Would Be Aghast' | ThinkProgress
Federal Court Rules Bulk Collection Of Phone Records By NSA Likely Violates Constitution: Founding Fathers 'Would Be Aghast' | ThinkProgress:
A federal judge has ruled that the “wholesale collection of the phone record metadata” of all U.S. citizens — a program exposed by former NSA contractor Edward Snowden — likely violates the 4th Amendment and is unconstitutional.
A federal judge has ruled that the “wholesale collection of the phone record metadata” of all U.S. citizens — a program exposed by former NSA contractor Edward Snowden — likely violates the 4th Amendment and is unconstitutional.
How Big Pharma Markets to and Profits from a 'Can't-Pay-Attention Nation' | Common Dreams
How Big Pharma Markets to and Profits from a 'Can't-Pay-Attention Nation' | Common Dreams:
A twenty-year marketing campaign has made highly powerful stimulants into household names... and they're just getting started
A twenty-year marketing campaign has made highly powerful stimulants into household names... and they're just getting started
'Snowden Vindicated': Judge Rules Against 'Indiscriminate' NSA Spying | Common Dreams
'Snowden Vindicated': Judge Rules Against 'Indiscriminate' NSA Spying | Common Dreams:
Snowden: "Today, a secret program authorized by a secret court was, when exposed to the light of day, found to violate Americans’ rights."
Snowden: "Today, a secret program authorized by a secret court was, when exposed to the light of day, found to violate Americans’ rights."
Poverty Nation: How America Created a Low-Wage Work Swamp | Alternet
Poverty Nation: How America Created a Low-Wage Work Swamp | Alternet:
For decades, both parties supplanted a push for higher wages with well-intended public aid. The result: calamity.
For decades, both parties supplanted a push for higher wages with well-intended public aid. The result: calamity.
Revolt of the Sheriffs: Some Cops Refuse to Enforce Gun Control Laws | Alternet
Revolt of the Sheriffs: Some Cops Refuse to Enforce Gun Control Laws | Alternet:
The alarming trend has spread from Colorado to New York to California.
The alarming trend has spread from Colorado to New York to California.
Legal Weed, One Year Later: Thousands Not Arrested for Marijuana, Millions of Dollars Saved | Alternet
Legal Weed, One Year Later: Thousands Not Arrested for Marijuana, Millions of Dollars Saved | Alternet:
The voters of Colorado did the right thing last year.
The voters of Colorado did the right thing last year.
5 Places The U.S. Military Operates—You Might Be Surprised | Alternet
5 Places The U.S. Military Operates—You Might Be Surprised | Alternet:
Obama's biannual report to Congress shows where he's deployed U.S. military personnel without direct approval. Some of them are pretty unexpected.
Obama's biannual report to Congress shows where he's deployed U.S. military personnel without direct approval. Some of them are pretty unexpected.
The 9 Most Baffling Passages in the Bible, and What They Really Mean | Alternet
The 9 Most Baffling Passages in the Bible, and What They Really Mean | Alternet:
Why all the "begettings?" Why was Jesus so mad at a tree? A look at some mind-boggling parts of the Holy Book.
Why all the "begettings?" Why was Jesus so mad at a tree? A look at some mind-boggling parts of the Holy Book.
The Jungle: Thousands of Homeless People Live in Shantytowns at the Epicenter of High-Tech, Super-Rich Silicon Valley | Alternet
The Jungle: Thousands of Homeless People Live in Shantytowns at the Epicenter of High-Tech, Super-Rich Silicon Valley | Alternet:
Residents of Silicon Valley’s largest homeless encampment illustrate the widening divide between the nation’s haves and have-nots.
Residents of Silicon Valley’s largest homeless encampment illustrate the widening divide between the nation’s haves and have-nots.
GOP Poll: 'Liberal' Cornyn Crushes Tea Party Challenger Stockman
GOP Poll: 'Liberal' Cornyn Crushes Tea Party Challenger Stockman:
Someone tell Rep. Steve Stockman (R-TX) that Republicans in Texas are ready to back a liberal.
Someone tell Rep. Steve Stockman (R-TX) that Republicans in Texas are ready to back a liberal.
Paul Ryan Indicates GOP Willing To Hold Debt Limit Hostage Again
Paul Ryan Indicates GOP Willing To Hold Debt Limit Hostage Again:
Republicans will return to debt limit brinkmanship with a new set of demands to avert default early in 2014, House Budget Chairman Paul Ryan signaled on Sunday.
Republicans will return to debt limit brinkmanship with a new set of demands to avert default early in 2014, House Budget Chairman Paul Ryan signaled on Sunday.
Sunday, December 15, 2013
Why Is the US Getting in the Way of International Efforts to Make Clean Water a Basic Human Right? | Alternet
Why Is the US Getting in the Way of International Efforts to Make Clean Water a Basic Human Right? | Alternet:
The United States is the only country marring the good works of a UN resolution on the right to safe drinking water and sanitation.
The United States is the only country marring the good works of a UN resolution on the right to safe drinking water and sanitation.
Stop Sending Undercover Cops into Our Schools to Entrap Our Kids on Drug Charges | Alternet
Stop Sending Undercover Cops into Our Schools to Entrap Our Kids on Drug Charges | Alternet:
"I’m disgusted by the trend of undercover cops infiltrating schools and targeting our kids. Last December, " Operation Glass House" made national news. Police officers, posed as ordinary students, were stationed in three California high schools. It led to the arrest of 22 children, the majority of whom were special needs students, including the autistic son of Doug and Catherine Snodgrass.
The Snodgrass family was delighted when their son had finally made a friend in school. The new “friend” would call and text him all the time. What they didn’t know was that the new friend was hounding their son for his medication – and that he was an undercover police officer. After finding and selling a small amount of marijuana to his new friend to keep him happy, Snodgrass’s son became one of the 22 arrested for “dealing drugs.”
Now the Snodgrass family is fighting back. They are suing the school district, the Director of Child Welfare and Attendance, and the Director of Special Education. They are sending a message not only to their son’s school, but to schools around the country: you should protect, not prey, on our kids."
America Is the Most Inhumane Developed Country on the Planet — Are We Going to Let It Stay That Way? | Alternet
America Is the Most Inhumane Developed Country on the Planet — Are We Going to Let It Stay That Way? | Alternet:
This week marked the 65th anniversary of the signing of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. What would it be like if people in the U.S. knew they had these rights?
This week marked the 65th anniversary of the signing of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. What would it be like if people in the U.S. knew they had these rights?
How a Texas Cop Who Killed a Double Amputee Holding a Ballpoint Pen Got Away With It | Alternet
How a Texas Cop Who Killed a Double Amputee Holding a Ballpoint Pen Got Away With It | Alternet:
Police misconduct in shootings is "very, very difficult" to prove, an FBI agent says.
Police misconduct in shootings is "very, very difficult" to prove, an FBI agent says.
Pope Responds to Limbaugh, Conservatives: 'Marxism is Wrong'
Pope Responds to Limbaugh, Conservatives: 'Marxism is Wrong':
Pope Francis responded to criticism Sunday from Rush Limbaugh and other American conservatives that his apostolic proclamation "Evangelii Gaudium," or the "Joy of the Gospel," is "pure Marxism" by telling an Italian newspaper that "Marxist ideology is wrong."
Pope Francis responded to criticism Sunday from Rush Limbaugh and other American conservatives that his apostolic proclamation "Evangelii Gaudium," or the "Joy of the Gospel," is "pure Marxism" by telling an Italian newspaper that "Marxist ideology is wrong."
Saturday, December 14, 2013
What The Us Knows About Snowden - Business Insider
What The Us Knows About Snowden - Business Insider:
Over the last six months, estimates for the number of classified files Edward Snowden stole from NSA systems have been upwardly revised from 10,000 to "as many as 200,000" to a staggering 1.7 million.
Over the last six months, estimates for the number of classified files Edward Snowden stole from NSA systems have been upwardly revised from 10,000 to "as many as 200,000" to a staggering 1.7 million.
New polls show Americans hate Congress, but side with Democrats over Republicans - Orlando liberal | Examiner.com
New polls show Americans hate Congress, but side with Democrats over Republicans - Orlando liberal | Examiner.com
Congress hasn't been too popular lately and the American people haven't been shy about letting them know about it. While Congress in general has seen their numbers drop, voters are more likely to side with Democrat candidates than their Republican counter parts.
Congress hasn't been too popular lately and the American people haven't been shy about letting them know about it. While Congress in general has seen their numbers drop, voters are more likely to side with Democrat candidates than their Republican counter parts.
OK state house is God's house: No Satanic monument
OK state house is God's house: No Satanic monument:
Oklahoma is OK. It says so on their license plates. But not if you happen to worship at an altar outside of the Christian faith. For example, the Satanist monument you’ve heard about in recent days. You know. We covered it HERE. Well OK lawmakers have released statements that show not only their disdain for a Satanist monument but for the Constitution of the United States as well.
Oklahoma is OK. It says so on their license plates. But not if you happen to worship at an altar outside of the Christian faith. For example, the Satanist monument you’ve heard about in recent days. You know. We covered it HERE. Well OK lawmakers have released statements that show not only their disdain for a Satanist monument but for the Constitution of the United States as well.
33 Jaw-Droppingly Stupid Multiple-Choice Questions from the Christian Education Curriculum | Alternet
33 Jaw-Droppingly Stupid Multiple-Choice Questions from the Christian Education Curriculum | Alternet:
This is what happens when you leave education to people for whom religious conversion is everything and learning is a distant afterthought.
Jesus Christ (npi), this stuff is SCARY!
This is what happens when you leave education to people for whom religious conversion is everything and learning is a distant afterthought.
Jesus Christ (npi), this stuff is SCARY!
10 Worst Things About Working in Fast Food and Retail | Alternet
10 Worst Things About Working in Fast Food and Retail | Alternet:
Disrespected and considered disposable, retail and service workers have nowhere to turn when their jobs become unbearable.
Something tells me unions are about to make a comeback, big time!
Disrespected and considered disposable, retail and service workers have nowhere to turn when their jobs become unbearable.
Something tells me unions are about to make a comeback, big time!
The Horror Every Day: Why Police Brutality Goes Unpunished | Alternet
The Horror Every Day: Why Police Brutality Goes Unpunished | Alternet:
An investigation into the Houston police department reveals why officers rarely face the consequences of beatings or shootings.
An investigation into the Houston police department reveals why officers rarely face the consequences of beatings or shootings.
Friday, December 13, 2013
The One Where Reagan’s Labor Secretary Admits ‘Trickle-Down’ Failed, Led to Inequality (Video)
The One Where Reagan’s Labor Secretary Admits ‘Trickle-Down’ Failed, Led to Inequality (Video):
After the release of the monthly jobs numbers last Friday, PBS’s Newshour spoke with former Reagan Labor Secretary Barry Bluestone about the success of “The Gipper’s” trickle-down economics regarding socioeconomic inequality.
After the release of the monthly jobs numbers last Friday, PBS’s Newshour spoke with former Reagan Labor Secretary Barry Bluestone about the success of “The Gipper’s” trickle-down economics regarding socioeconomic inequality.
The Budget Deal Is a Big Win for the Pentagon | Mother Jones
The Budget Deal Is a Big Win for the Pentagon | Mother Jones:
Until Sen. Patty Murray (D-Wash.) and Rep. Paul Ryan (R-Wis.) rode to the rescue this week, Pentagon brass and their allies had been issuing dire warnings about the nation's military readiness: The armed services were being decimated, they said, by sequestration—the automatic budget cuts that were set to trim $1 trillion from the Pentagon budget over the next decade. "It's one thing for the Pentagon to go on a diet. It's another for the Pentagon to wear a straitjacket while dieting," grumbled Rep. Jim Cooper (D-Tenn.). The message got through: The House overwhelmingly approved the Ryan-Murray plan just two days after it was introduced
Until Sen. Patty Murray (D-Wash.) and Rep. Paul Ryan (R-Wis.) rode to the rescue this week, Pentagon brass and their allies had been issuing dire warnings about the nation's military readiness: The armed services were being decimated, they said, by sequestration—the automatic budget cuts that were set to trim $1 trillion from the Pentagon budget over the next decade. "It's one thing for the Pentagon to go on a diet. It's another for the Pentagon to wear a straitjacket while dieting," grumbled Rep. Jim Cooper (D-Tenn.). The message got through: The House overwhelmingly approved the Ryan-Murray plan just two days after it was introduced
Why the Fight to Legalize Marijuana Is Part of a Much Larger Populist Struggle | Alternet
Why the Fight to Legalize Marijuana Is Part of a Much Larger Populist Struggle | Alternet:
The marijuana issue has galvanized activist energy on the left and the right, from anti-globalization protesters to free-market capitalists.
The marijuana issue has galvanized activist energy on the left and the right, from anti-globalization protesters to free-market capitalists.
How To Explain Megyn Kelly's Fear Of A Black Santa | ThinkProgress
How To Explain Megyn Kelly's Fear Of A Black Santa | ThinkProgress:
Much of Megyn Kelly’s mainstream appeal to viewers who wouldn’t normally praise an employee of Fox News is the idea that she’s not afraid to stand up to stupid memes or willful denials of the facts, whether she’s smacking down Dr. Keith Ablow’s fearmongering about transgender people or bowing to the evidence and calling Ohio for Barack Obama in the 2012 presidential election. But last night, she provided a reminder of why she’s a good fit for the network that employs her.
Much of Megyn Kelly’s mainstream appeal to viewers who wouldn’t normally praise an employee of Fox News is the idea that she’s not afraid to stand up to stupid memes or willful denials of the facts, whether she’s smacking down Dr. Keith Ablow’s fearmongering about transgender people or bowing to the evidence and calling Ohio for Barack Obama in the 2012 presidential election. But last night, she provided a reminder of why she’s a good fit for the network that employs her.
Newtown Didn't Change Lawmakers' Opinions On Gun Control, It Hardened Them
Newtown Didn't Change Lawmakers' Opinions On Gun Control, It Hardened Them:
It's been a year since the Sandy Hook Elementary School massacre that left 20 first-graders and six staff dead, which means it's been a year of congressional inaction in response to one of the most horrific mass shootings in U.S. history.
It's been a year since the Sandy Hook Elementary School massacre that left 20 first-graders and six staff dead, which means it's been a year of congressional inaction in response to one of the most horrific mass shootings in U.S. history.
Cuomo Takes on Obama Administration Over Medicaid Exemption
Cuomo Takes on Obama Administration Over Medicaid Exemption:
New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo is ratcheting up pressure on the Obama administration to get approval for a request that would allow his state to spend billions of dollars on Medicaid reform, using the resulting savings to fund public hospitals on the brink of financial collapse.
New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo is ratcheting up pressure on the Obama administration to get approval for a request that would allow his state to spend billions of dollars on Medicaid reform, using the resulting savings to fund public hospitals on the brink of financial collapse.
Americans Left Out Of Medicaid Fight Back Against GOP Guvs
Americans Left Out Of Medicaid Fight Back Against GOP Guvs:
Obamacare advocates are actively recruiting those left out of the Medicaid expansion in Republican-controlled states to lobby state officials to change their minds and participate in that key provision of the health care reform law.
Obamacare advocates are actively recruiting those left out of the Medicaid expansion in Republican-controlled states to lobby state officials to change their minds and participate in that key provision of the health care reform law.
GOP Struggle Widens As Boehner Rebukes Hard Right
GOP Struggle Widens As Boehner Rebukes Hard Right:
The Republican establishment's much-anticipated pushback against the tea party wing is underway. House Speaker John Boehner made that clear Thursday, when he renewed his denunciation of groups that try to defeat GOP incumbents they consider too willing to compromise with Democrats.
The Republican establishment's much-anticipated pushback against the tea party wing is underway. House Speaker John Boehner made that clear Thursday, when he renewed his denunciation of groups that try to defeat GOP incumbents they consider too willing to compromise with Democrats.
Thursday, December 12, 2013
Daily Kos: Millennials prepare to destroy GOP
Daily Kos: Millennials prepare to destroy GOP:
Millennials (those born roughly since 1980 or so, depending on your definition) are the most progressive generation since FDR.
That's the headline from this fascinating infographic from Pew, which examines the voting preferences of various generational cohorts over the last two decades. We've heard this before of course. Pew grouped voters into categories not based solely on birth year, but also on the year in which a voter turned 18 -- noting under what President this occurred (fascinating concept). They then looked across the last 10 elections to see where deviations from the national average occurred.
Millennials (those born roughly since 1980 or so, depending on your definition) are the most progressive generation since FDR.
That's the headline from this fascinating infographic from Pew, which examines the voting preferences of various generational cohorts over the last two decades. We've heard this before of course. Pew grouped voters into categories not based solely on birth year, but also on the year in which a voter turned 18 -- noting under what President this occurred (fascinating concept). They then looked across the last 10 elections to see where deviations from the national average occurred.
Daily Kos: Workers in Walmart warehouse get $4.7 million wage theft settlement
Daily Kos: Workers in Walmart warehouse get $4.7 million wage theft settlement:
Workers in one of Walmart's largest contracted warehouses are getting a major settlement after years of wage theft by Schneider Logistics, the company that runs the warehouse for Walmart. A $4.7 million preliminary settlement will go to 568 workers who sued over wage and hour violations that ran the gamut
Workers in one of Walmart's largest contracted warehouses are getting a major settlement after years of wage theft by Schneider Logistics, the company that runs the warehouse for Walmart. A $4.7 million preliminary settlement will go to 568 workers who sued over wage and hour violations that ran the gamut
John Boehner Slams Conservative Groups For 'Using' Lawmakers And The American People
John Boehner Slams Conservative Groups For 'Using' Lawmakers And The American People:
House Speaker John Boehner (R-Ohio) took a hard swing Wednesday at conservative groups opposing the newly announced bipartisan budget deal.
"You mean the groups that came out and opposed it before they ever saw it?" he said in a response to a reporter's question.
House Speaker John Boehner (R-Ohio) took a hard swing Wednesday at conservative groups opposing the newly announced bipartisan budget deal.
"You mean the groups that came out and opposed it before they ever saw it?" he said in a response to a reporter's question.
Paul Ryan Says He Was 'Caught Off Guard' By Conservative Groups' Opposition To Budget Deal
Paul Ryan Says He Was 'Caught Off Guard' By Conservative Groups' Opposition To Budget Deal:
The co-architect of a new budget deal in Congress concedes the political accommodation is modest, but says it moves a fiscally challenged government "in the right direction."
The co-architect of a new budget deal in Congress concedes the political accommodation is modest, but says it moves a fiscally challenged government "in the right direction."
Boeing is a Greedy, Freeloading Corporation That Screws American Taxpayers and Workers | Alternet
Boeing is a Greedy, Freeloading Corporation That Screws American Taxpayers and Workers | Alternet:
The aerospace company makes out like a bandit while sucking the lifeblood from the real economy.
The aerospace company makes out like a bandit while sucking the lifeblood from the real economy.
5 Things Terribly Wrong With the Ryan-Murray Budget Deal | Alternet
5 Things Terribly Wrong With the Ryan-Murray Budget Deal | Alternet:
Every assumption of the deal is wrong-headed.
Every assumption of the deal is wrong-headed.
6 Reasons There's No Such Thing As Compassionate Conservatism | Alternet
6 Reasons There's No Such Thing As Compassionate Conservatism | Alternet:
Conservatives worship Ayn Rand, who said it was morally wrong to help people. How's that for compassionate?
Conservatives worship Ayn Rand, who said it was morally wrong to help people. How's that for compassionate?
With the ACA Succeeding Darrell Issa Threatens to Charge Kathleen Sebelius With a Crime
With the ACA Succeeding Darrell Issa Threatens to Charge Kathleen Sebelius With a Crime
The concept of Issa charging someone with crime, given his immense criminal history, is funny. Politics as absurdism.
The concept of Issa charging someone with crime, given his immense criminal history, is funny. Politics as absurdism.
Wednesday, December 11, 2013
Daily Kos: Snowden Strikes Again - another breaking story
Daily Kos: Snowden Strikes Again - another breaking story:
according to The Switch blog at The Washington Post, in a story just emailed as breaking news, NSA uses Google cookies to pinpoint targets for hacking.
according to The Switch blog at The Washington Post, in a story just emailed as breaking news, NSA uses Google cookies to pinpoint targets for hacking.
'Dumb' & 'Cruel': Budget Deal Attacks America's Most Vulnerable | Common Dreams
'Dumb' & 'Cruel': Budget Deal Attacks America's Most Vulnerable | Common Dreams:
Lauded as a "step in the right direction" by high-level members from both parties, progressives--calling it both 'dumb' and 'cruel'--say that should be a warning to the nation
Lauded as a "step in the right direction" by high-level members from both parties, progressives--calling it both 'dumb' and 'cruel'--say that should be a warning to the nation
How School of the Americas Watch’s Perseverance is Paying Off | Alternet
How School of the Americas Watch’s Perseverance is Paying Off | Alternet:
Thousands continue this nearly quarter-century protest exposing the school that trains Latin American troops. Has the annual event become a routinized ritual?
Thousands continue this nearly quarter-century protest exposing the school that trains Latin American troops. Has the annual event become a routinized ritual?
The U.S. Has A Long History of Refusing to Apply Human Rights Standards at Home | Alternet
The U.S. Has A Long History of Refusing to Apply Human Rights Standards at Home | Alternet:
American politicians often talk as if human rights were only relevant in other countries, but grassroots organisations are increasingly using the human rights framework to win social and economic rights for the poorest and most marginalised people in the U.S. Cathy Albisa, director of the National Economic and Social Rights Inititative, spoke to Meredith Tax.
American politicians often talk as if human rights were only relevant in other countries, but grassroots organisations are increasingly using the human rights framework to win social and economic rights for the poorest and most marginalised people in the U.S. Cathy Albisa, director of the National Economic and Social Rights Inititative, spoke to Meredith Tax.
12 Corporate Espionage Tactics Used Against Leading Progressive Groups, Activists and Whistleblowers | Alternet
12 Corporate Espionage Tactics Used Against Leading Progressive Groups, Activists and Whistleblowers | Alternet:
Corporate spies for Dow, Kraft and others have tried to discredit, shame and infiltrate civic groups using an array of dirty tricks.
Corporate spies for Dow, Kraft and others have tried to discredit, shame and infiltrate civic groups using an array of dirty tricks.
Telling Fast Food Workers To 'Get A Better Job' Is Nonsense, In 1 Chart
Telling Fast Food Workers To 'Get A Better Job' Is Nonsense, In 1 Chart:
Critics tell fast-food workers to stop complaining about their extremely low pay because that's just the reality of an entry-level job. Get a better job, the critics say, and you'll make more. The trouble is, there aren't any better jobs available.
Critics tell fast-food workers to stop complaining about their extremely low pay because that's just the reality of an entry-level job. Get a better job, the critics say, and you'll make more. The trouble is, there aren't any better jobs available.
NJ Democrats Keep Heat on Christie Over Bridge Lane Closures
NJ Democrats Keep Heat on Christie Over Bridge Lane Closures:
New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie is in hot water over the closure of access lanes to the George Washington Bridge that caused a massive traffic tie-up — and that Democrats say was carried out only as a form of political revenge.
New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie is in hot water over the closure of access lanes to the George Washington Bridge that caused a massive traffic tie-up — and that Democrats say was carried out only as a form of political revenge.
Reports: Ted Cruz Walked Out Of Mandela Memorial During Castro Speech
Reports: Ted Cruz Walked Out Of Mandela Memorial During Castro Speech:
A spokeswoman for Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX) said Tuesday that the lawmaker walked out of Nelson Mandela's memorial service in Johannesburg when Cuban President Raul Castro spoke to the crowd, according to news reports.
A spokeswoman for Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX) said Tuesday that the lawmaker walked out of Nelson Mandela's memorial service in Johannesburg when Cuban President Raul Castro spoke to the crowd, according to news reports.
Paul Ryan vs. Conservatives: GOP Budget Hero Faces Rebellion
Paul Ryan vs. Conservatives: GOP Budget Hero Faces Rebellion:
The GOP's policy visionary has found himself at odds with the conservative wing of his own party, which is testing his ability to finish up -- and more importantly, achieve enough support to pass -- a major bipartisan agreement for the first time in his career.
The GOP's policy visionary has found himself at odds with the conservative wing of his own party, which is testing his ability to finish up -- and more importantly, achieve enough support to pass -- a major bipartisan agreement for the first time in his career.
The Next 5 Battleground States For Obamacare's Medicaid Expansion
The Next 5 Battleground States For Obamacare's Medicaid Expansion
Going into 2014, the United States is split down the middle: 25 states (plus Washington, D.C.) have expanded Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act, and 25 states have not.
Going into 2014, the United States is split down the middle: 25 states (plus Washington, D.C.) have expanded Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act, and 25 states have not.
The National Memo » The Tea Party Jumps The Shark: 4 Reasons Steve Stockman Won’t Beat John Cornyn
The National Memo » The Tea Party Jumps The Shark: 4 Reasons Steve Stockman Won’t Beat John Cornyn:
U.S. Representative Steve Stockman (R-TX) shook up the 2014 midterms on Monday night, when he made the surprising announcement that he will challenge Senate Minority Whip John Cornyn (R-TX) in his upcoming re-election campaign.
U.S. Representative Steve Stockman (R-TX) shook up the 2014 midterms on Monday night, when he made the surprising announcement that he will challenge Senate Minority Whip John Cornyn (R-TX) in his upcoming re-election campaign.
The National Memo » How Not To Think About The Pension Crisis
The National Memo » How Not To Think About The Pension Crisis:
The latest news out of Detroit isn’t good. To get its fresh start, this once great but now bankrupt city is going to stick it to municipal employees and retirees.
The latest news out of Detroit isn’t good. To get its fresh start, this once great but now bankrupt city is going to stick it to municipal employees and retirees.
Tuesday, December 10, 2013
Let's Get This Straight: AIG Execs Got Bailout Bonuses, but Pensioners Get Cuts | Common Dreams
Let's Get This Straight: AIG Execs Got Bailout Bonuses, but Pensioners Get Cuts | Common Dreams:
No one has accused city workers in Chicago or Detroit of bringing down the economy, but they could face pension cuts
No one has accused city workers in Chicago or Detroit of bringing down the economy, but they could face pension cuts
The Ayn Rand-Worshipping Sears CEO That Blew Up His Multibillion Dollar Empire | Alternet
The Ayn Rand-Worshipping Sears CEO That Blew Up His Multibillion Dollar Empire | Alternet:
The invisible hand waves goodbye to America’s most delusional CEO.
The invisible hand waves goodbye to America’s most delusional CEO.
Look at the Stats -- America Resembles a Broken Banana Republic | Alternet
Look at the Stats -- America Resembles a Broken Banana Republic | Alternet:
The only things America is #1 in these days are the number of incarcerated citizens per capita and adult onset diabetes.
The only things America is #1 in these days are the number of incarcerated citizens per capita and adult onset diabetes.
Monday, December 09, 2013
Dancing With The IRS : Political Moll
Dancing With The IRS : Political Moll
There is a growing Christian Fundamentalist threat to Democracy in America that comes in the form of an escalating ideology being disseminated within churches across America. This is being done by deliberate and obvious thumbing of noses at the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and illegally breaking tax codes. No matter your religion or lack thereof, every American should be aware of this political movement disguised as a Christian movement that functions solely to garner votes for select Republican candidates.
There is a growing Christian Fundamentalist threat to Democracy in America that comes in the form of an escalating ideology being disseminated within churches across America. This is being done by deliberate and obvious thumbing of noses at the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and illegally breaking tax codes. No matter your religion or lack thereof, every American should be aware of this political movement disguised as a Christian movement that functions solely to garner votes for select Republican candidates.
Movement Rises to Kick 'Corporate Reform' Out of Public Schools | Common Dreams
Movement Rises to Kick 'Corporate Reform' Out of Public Schools | Common Dreams:
#ReclaimPublicEd: With actions in over 60 cities, parents, students, and teachers demand an end to "corporate reform" policies
#ReclaimPublicEd: With actions in over 60 cities, parents, students, and teachers demand an end to "corporate reform" policies
Daily Kos: Elton John in Russia: "I am deeply saddened and shocked"
Daily Kos: Elton John in Russia: "I am deeply saddened and shocked":
Dedicating his concert in Moscow last night to Vladislav Tornovoi, a 23 year old gay man who was brutally murdered when he came out to people he thought were his friends, Elton John answered critics who doubted his motives or questioned his decision to perform in an increasingly hostile Russia.
Dedicating his concert in Moscow last night to Vladislav Tornovoi, a 23 year old gay man who was brutally murdered when he came out to people he thought were his friends, Elton John answered critics who doubted his motives or questioned his decision to perform in an increasingly hostile Russia.
Rand Paul Says Unemployment Benefits a ‘Disservice’ to Workers | Alternet
Rand Paul Says Unemployment Benefits a ‘Disservice’ to Workers | Alternet:
Conservatives should spare us the false pity for the long-term unemployed they wish to cast adrift from public support.
Conservatives should spare us the false pity for the long-term unemployed they wish to cast adrift from public support.
Revealed: NSA Infiltrating Online Games Like World of Warcraft and Second-Life | Alternet
Revealed: NSA Infiltrating Online Games Like World of Warcraft and Second-Life | Alternet:
Government spies are collecting data from the online games.
Players of fantasy games like World of Warcraft are usually worried about their character dying or running out of money. But new documents leaked by whistleblower Edward Snowden reveal that they should have another concern: government spying.
Government spies are collecting data from the online games.
Players of fantasy games like World of Warcraft are usually worried about their character dying or running out of money. But new documents leaked by whistleblower Edward Snowden reveal that they should have another concern: government spying.
Sunday, December 08, 2013
Democrats the Party of Racists? The Myth of the Liberal Dixiecrats. : Quiet Mike
Democrats the Party of Racists? The Myth of the Liberal Dixiecrats. : Quiet Mike:
"What modern conservatives today are trying to imply is that the KKK and southern segregationists were liberals. This is a complete misrepresentation of historic polarity. From the Civil War up until about 1948, the Southern Democrats were the most conservative wing of the Democratic Party. In fact, Southern Democrats ran the South like one-party states. Republican, mostly liberal, candidates were practically barred from being elected in both voter mindset and electoral system."
"What modern conservatives today are trying to imply is that the KKK and southern segregationists were liberals. This is a complete misrepresentation of historic polarity. From the Civil War up until about 1948, the Southern Democrats were the most conservative wing of the Democratic Party. In fact, Southern Democrats ran the South like one-party states. Republican, mostly liberal, candidates were practically barred from being elected in both voter mindset and electoral system."
More UN States Quietly Say No to Drug War
More UN States Quietly Say No to Drug War:
An internal United Nations draft document leaked last weekend has offered outsiders a rare look at longstanding disagreements between member states over the course of U.N. drug policy.
An internal United Nations draft document leaked last weekend has offered outsiders a rare look at longstanding disagreements between member states over the course of U.N. drug policy.
Why Rand Paul’s plan won’t save Detroit | Grist
Why Rand Paul’s plan won’t save Detroit | Grist:
Rand Paul, the beacon of small-government conservatism, has an idea to save Detroit. Paul’s solution to Detroit’s poverty, shrinking population, crime, blight, and bankruptcy is the same as Paul’s solution to virtually everything else: cut taxes.
Rand Paul, the beacon of small-government conservatism, has an idea to save Detroit. Paul’s solution to Detroit’s poverty, shrinking population, crime, blight, and bankruptcy is the same as Paul’s solution to virtually everything else: cut taxes.
FBI Can Hijack Your Webcam — And Much More
FBI Can Hijack Your Webcam — And Much More:
The FBI's advanced surveillance methods can even activate a computer's webcam to spy on computer users — without switching on the device's telltale green light — reports about the investigation behind a bomb threat suspect reveal.
The FBI's advanced surveillance methods can even activate a computer's webcam to spy on computer users — without switching on the device's telltale green light — reports about the investigation behind a bomb threat suspect reveal.
Saturday, December 07, 2013
Daily Kos: Most Still "Think" It's A Luxury
Daily Kos: Most Still "Think" It's A Luxury:
Because your electricity can still be cut off, no matter the weather.
Because your electricity can still be cut off, no matter the weather.
CBO: US Deficit $61B Lower Than Last Year
CBO: US Deficit $61B Lower Than Last Year
The government has racked up a $231 billion budget deficit for the first two months of the new fiscal year, but that's down $61 billion from last year's figures
The government has racked up a $231 billion budget deficit for the first two months of the new fiscal year, but that's down $61 billion from last year's figures
The National Memo » This Week In Crazy: Rick Santorum Is A Non-Communist Nelson Mandela, And The Rest Of The Worst Of The Right
The National Memo » This Week In Crazy: Rick Santorum Is A Non-Communist Nelson Mandela, And The Rest Of The Worst Of The Right:
Welcome to “This Week In Crazy,” The National Memo’s weekly update on the wildest attacks, conspiracy theories, and other loony behavior from the increasingly unhinged right wing.
Welcome to “This Week In Crazy,” The National Memo’s weekly update on the wildest attacks, conspiracy theories, and other loony behavior from the increasingly unhinged right wing.
Friday, December 06, 2013
Snowden: Indicted by US, Key Witness for EU | Common Dreams
Snowden: Indicted by US, Key Witness for EU | Common Dreams:
Following resolution by Green Party, Snowden to give testimony to European Parliament on NSA mass surveilance
Following resolution by Green Party, Snowden to give testimony to European Parliament on NSA mass surveilance
Young: Mandela Drew His Strength from Religious Beliefs
Young: Mandela Drew His Strength from Religious Beliefs:
Former United Nations Ambassador Andrew Young tells Newsmax that it's a mistake to look at former South African President Nelson Mandela as a political figure and forget how his strong religious beliefs sustained him.
Former United Nations Ambassador Andrew Young tells Newsmax that it's a mistake to look at former South African President Nelson Mandela as a political figure and forget how his strong religious beliefs sustained him.
How the Christian Right Plays Victim While Imposing Its Ideology on America | Alternet
How the Christian Right Plays Victim While Imposing Its Ideology on America | Alternet:
Telling Grandma she's going to lose her church is a great way to get her to sign her Social Security check over to your organization.
Telling Grandma she's going to lose her church is a great way to get her to sign her Social Security check over to your organization.
ALEC Stands Its Ground, But Stumbles | Alternet
ALEC Stands Its Ground, But Stumbles | Alternet:
It's been a rough week for the organization that has become known as a corporate bill mill.
It's been a rough week for the organization that has become known as a corporate bill mill.
Fox News on Mandela's Death: Rick Santorum Compares Apartheid to Obamacare; O'Reilly Brands Leader a Communist | Alternet
Fox News on Mandela's Death: Rick Santorum Compares Apartheid to Obamacare; O'Reilly Brands Leader a Communist | Alternet:
"Great man, but he was a communist," Fox News’ Bill O’Reilly declared.
"Great man, but he was a communist," Fox News’ Bill O’Reilly declared.
Killing Of Hezbollah Commander Leaves Group Without Military Mastermind
Killing Of Hezbollah Commander Leaves Group Without Military Mastermind:
The assassination of Hezbollah leader Hassan al-Laqis by a small Sunni group this week has eliminated an effective and high-ranking operative who helped supply some of the most advanced military needs for the Shiite militia.
The assassination of Hezbollah leader Hassan al-Laqis by a small Sunni group this week has eliminated an effective and high-ranking operative who helped supply some of the most advanced military needs for the Shiite militia.
World Grieves In Wake Of Mandela's Death
World Grieves In Wake Of Mandela's Death:
For most of the world, his name is synonymous with courage and perseverance. Leaders and citizens, athletes and artists remembered Nelson Mandela on Friday — though many struggled to find words big enough to describe the man who changed the face of South Africa and inspired a continent and a world: a colossus, a father figure, a giant baobab tree providing shade for an entire nation.
For most of the world, his name is synonymous with courage and perseverance. Leaders and citizens, athletes and artists remembered Nelson Mandela on Friday — though many struggled to find words big enough to describe the man who changed the face of South Africa and inspired a continent and a world: a colossus, a father figure, a giant baobab tree providing shade for an entire nation.
The National Memo » America’s Greediest: Meet YUM! CEO David Novak, Keeping Fast-Food Wages Minimal
The National Memo » America’s Greediest: Meet YUM! CEO David Novak, Keeping Fast-Food Wages Minimal
Among the most venerable Yuletide traditions is the annual appeal on behalf of the “neediest cases,” which has spread nationwide since it first appeared in the New York Times so long ago.
More than a century later we still have the poor with us, of course, and the rich, not to mention the unspeakably super-duper-rich – many of whom comport themselves in ways that likewise provoke public concern, especially in an era of growing inequality and impoverishment.
Among the most venerable Yuletide traditions is the annual appeal on behalf of the “neediest cases,” which has spread nationwide since it first appeared in the New York Times so long ago.
More than a century later we still have the poor with us, of course, and the rich, not to mention the unspeakably super-duper-rich – many of whom comport themselves in ways that likewise provoke public concern, especially in an era of growing inequality and impoverishment.
Thursday, December 05, 2013
Daily Kos: Third Way Attacks Elizabeth Warren. Warren Fights Back.
Daily Kos: Third Way Attacks Elizabeth Warren. Warren Fights Back.:
As you probably already know, Wall Street hacks from Third Way recently wrote an op-ed in the Wall Street Journal criticizing the economic populism of figures like Elizabeth Warren. As to be expected, professional centrists and corporate panderers like Ron Fournier and Mike Allen were big boosters of the piece.
As you probably already know, Wall Street hacks from Third Way recently wrote an op-ed in the Wall Street Journal criticizing the economic populism of figures like Elizabeth Warren. As to be expected, professional centrists and corporate panderers like Ron Fournier and Mike Allen were big boosters of the piece.
Daily Kos: 3.8%
Daily Kos: 3.8%:
I never see this discussed on the news, the pundit shows, or anywhere else.
Want to know the dirty little secret about why the wealthy hate Obamacare?
3.8%
I never see this discussed on the news, the pundit shows, or anywhere else.
Want to know the dirty little secret about why the wealthy hate Obamacare?
3.8%
'Low Pay Is Not OK': Fast Food Workers Rise Up with Nationwide Protests | Common Dreams
'Low Pay Is Not OK': Fast Food Workers Rise Up with Nationwide Protests | Common Dreams:
Actions expected in over 100 cities demanding end to poverty wages
Actions expected in over 100 cities demanding end to poverty wages
The National Memo » Why Republicans Can’t Address Rising Inequality
The National Memo » Why Republicans Can’t Address Rising Inequality:
So far, the Republican response to President Obama’s historic address on economic inequality has not veered from the predictable clichés of Tea Party rhetoric.
So far, the Republican response to President Obama’s historic address on economic inequality has not veered from the predictable clichés of Tea Party rhetoric.
Government Policy Designed for the One Percent Screws Walmart Workers | Alternet
Government Policy Designed for the One Percent Screws Walmart Workers | Alternet:
Bad policy has redistributed income away from working people to the rich.
Bad policy has redistributed income away from working people to the rich.
Facebook's Future Plans for Data Collection Beyond All Imagination | Alternet
Facebook's Future Plans for Data Collection Beyond All Imagination | Alternet:
Facebook's dark plans for the future are given away in its patent applications.
Facebook's dark plans for the future are given away in its patent applications.
Five Things Blackwater's Founder Thinks The World Got Wrong About His Company
Five Things Blackwater's Founder Thinks The World Got Wrong About His Company:
The founder of the infamous private security contractor known as Blackwater thinks there have been several "dramatic misunderstandings" about his company, which has been accused of callously killing civilians in the Mideast.
The founder of the infamous private security contractor known as Blackwater thinks there have been several "dramatic misunderstandings" about his company, which has been accused of callously killing civilians in the Mideast.
Report: States Opting Out Of Medicaid Expansion Will Lose Billions
Report: States Opting Out Of Medicaid Expansion Will Lose Billions:
States not expanding Medicaid under Obamacare will be collectively lose more than $35 billion in federal funds in 2022 alone, according to a new report from the Commonwealth Fund.
States not expanding Medicaid under Obamacare will be collectively lose more than $35 billion in federal funds in 2022 alone, according to a new report from the Commonwealth Fund.
The Budget Deal Paul Ryan And Patty Murray Are Nearing
The Budget Deal Paul Ryan And Patty Murray Are Nearing:
House Budget Chair Paul Ryan (R-WI) and Senate Budget Chair Patty Murray (D-WA) met Wednesday in the Capitol to advance their private negotiations on a modest budget agreement to set spending levels for the next two or three years.
House Budget Chair Paul Ryan (R-WI) and Senate Budget Chair Patty Murray (D-WA) met Wednesday in the Capitol to advance their private negotiations on a modest budget agreement to set spending levels for the next two or three years.
Wednesday, December 04, 2013
Daily Kos: Rick Perry in negotiations to accept Medicaid expansion - Turning Texas Blue
Daily Kos: Rick Perry in negotiations to accept Medicaid expansion - Turning Texas Blue:
Great article out of Dallas concerning Medicaid expansion, Turn Texas Blue, and the general sense of panic in the Republican Party.
Great article out of Dallas concerning Medicaid expansion, Turn Texas Blue, and the general sense of panic in the Republican Party.
Daily Kos: Boehner tries to pass the buck on the least productive Congress, ever
Daily Kos: Boehner tries to pass the buck on the least productive Congress, ever:
So, yeah, blame it all on the Senate. Senate Republicans, that is.
So, yeah, blame it all on the Senate. Senate Republicans, that is.
Daily Kos: Breaking: Judge Rules Detroit Pension Benefits Subject to Theft by Bankruptcy.
Daily Kos: Breaking: Judge Rules Detroit Pension Benefits Subject to Theft by Bankruptcy.:
It's official. It's now okay for public entities to promise workers a decent retirement, then renege.
Time for some strikes.... er, those might illegal... work slowdowns, 'k?
It's official. It's now okay for public entities to promise workers a decent retirement, then renege.
Time for some strikes.... er, those might illegal... work slowdowns, 'k?
Daily Kos: When Republicans start calling Obamacare 'free health care,' that means it's working
Daily Kos: When Republicans start calling Obamacare 'free health care,' that means it's working:
Brian Beutler, noting a new Familes USA study showing that 71 percent of people under age 65 in the individual market are qualified for Medicaid or for insurance subsidies, observes:
But as he points out, Jeffrey Zients, the Obama administration's healthcare.gov fixer, says that by the end of next week, the site will be able to handle nearly one million users a day, a development that will go a long way towards addressing the logistical problems that have challenged Obamacare's early days. If Zients delivers, this is a real problem for the Republican position, which comes down to variations of the claim that Obamacare isn't working.
Brian Beutler, noting a new Familes USA study showing that 71 percent of people under age 65 in the individual market are qualified for Medicaid or for insurance subsidies, observes:
"For the past couple of months, the Healthcare.gov failure allowed Republicans to ignore the moral imperative they face to direct these constituents toward new options. The cash registers aren’t working, they could tell themselves, so what good would we be doing by directing people to the market anyhow. This was always dodgy logic, but it enjoyed a real sheen of plausibility. And that’s why Republicans have spent most of November soliciting Obamacare horror stories, rather than trying to help the narrators."
But as he points out, Jeffrey Zients, the Obama administration's healthcare.gov fixer, says that by the end of next week, the site will be able to handle nearly one million users a day, a development that will go a long way towards addressing the logistical problems that have challenged Obamacare's early days. If Zients delivers, this is a real problem for the Republican position, which comes down to variations of the claim that Obamacare isn't working.
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