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.
Friday, December 13, 2013
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.
The Greatest Trick The Supreme Court Ever Pulled Was Convincing The World Roe v. Wade Still Exists | ThinkProgress
The Greatest Trick The Supreme Court Ever Pulled Was Convincing The World Roe v. Wade Still Exists | ThinkProgress
Amid the tattered remains of Roe v. Wade, many women are left behind. They’re living in a world in which affluent women may exercise their right to choose while impoverished women may not. It doesn’t look too different from 1972.
Amid the tattered remains of Roe v. Wade, many women are left behind. They’re living in a world in which affluent women may exercise their right to choose while impoverished women may not. It doesn’t look too different from 1972.
WikiLeaks, Press Freedom and Free Expression in the Digital Age | Pierre Omidyar
WikiLeaks, Press Freedom and Free Expression in the Digital Age | Pierre Omidyar:
This week, fourteen people charged by the Department of Justice in connection with a coordinated denial of service attack on PayPal's services in 2010 will appear in Federal Court. The "PayPal 14," as they have been dubbed, are charged with participating in an attack orchestrated by Anonymous to retaliate against PayPal's suspension of its relationship with WikiLeaks. Their case as well as PayPal's actions in 2010 raise important questions about press freedoms and the nature of online protests.
This week, fourteen people charged by the Department of Justice in connection with a coordinated denial of service attack on PayPal's services in 2010 will appear in Federal Court. The "PayPal 14," as they have been dubbed, are charged with participating in an attack orchestrated by Anonymous to retaliate against PayPal's suspension of its relationship with WikiLeaks. Their case as well as PayPal's actions in 2010 raise important questions about press freedoms and the nature of online protests.
EU Fines Banks $2.3 Billion For Market Rigging
EU Fines Banks $2.3 Billion For Market Rigging:
EU antitrust regulators fined six financial institutions including Deutsche Bank, Royal Bank of Scotland and Citigroup a record total of 1.71 billion euros ($2.3 billion) on Wednesday for rigging financial benchmarks.
EU antitrust regulators fined six financial institutions including Deutsche Bank, Royal Bank of Scotland and Citigroup a record total of 1.71 billion euros ($2.3 billion) on Wednesday for rigging financial benchmarks.
How the World Bank Is Hurtling Us Toward Environmental Ruin | Alternet
How the World Bank Is Hurtling Us Toward Environmental Ruin | Alternet:
The environmentally unsustainable development that the Bank has continued to finance is contributing to a global ecological debt that now is foreclosing on the future of human societies.
The environmentally unsustainable development that the Bank has continued to finance is contributing to a global ecological debt that now is foreclosing on the future of human societies.
Are the Bankers Now Setting Up the Crash of 2016? | Alternet
Are the Bankers Now Setting Up the Crash of 2016? | Alternet:
Conservative lawmakers overreact to progressive American changes—pushing the economy toward another crash.
Conservative lawmakers overreact to progressive American changes—pushing the economy toward another crash.
How Right-Wingers Are Stepping Into An Obamacare Trap | Alternet
How Right-Wingers Are Stepping Into An Obamacare Trap | Alternet:
The U.S. Right destroys its credibility in two easy steps: first, author the earliest iteration of the Affordable Care Act, then attack the administration responsible for its implementation.
The U.S. Right destroys its credibility in two easy steps: first, author the earliest iteration of the Affordable Care Act, then attack the administration responsible for its implementation.
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.
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.
Putin's Approval Ratings Lowest Since 2000
Putin's Approval Ratings Lowest Since 2000:
Rising prices and an economic slowdown helped drive President Vladimir Putin's public approval rating to its lowest level in more than 13 years last month, a Russian polling agency said on Tuesday.
Rising prices and an economic slowdown helped drive President Vladimir Putin's public approval rating to its lowest level in more than 13 years last month, a Russian polling agency said on Tuesday.
The National Memo » WATCH: Citing ‘War On Coal,’ Chamber Of Commerce Defends Mitch McConnell
The National Memo » WATCH: Citing ‘War On Coal,’ Chamber Of Commerce Defends Mitch McConnell
The business lobby is staying on the front lines of the "war on coal" -- and the GOP civil war.
The business lobby is staying on the front lines of the "war on coal" -- and the GOP civil war.
The National Memo » 5 Cuts That Even Scrooge Would Make This Christmas Instead Of Punishing The Unemployed
The National Memo » 5 Cuts That Even Scrooge Would Make This Christmas Instead Of Punishing The Unemployed
If Republicans insist on slashing $25 billion from the budget, there are ways to do it wisely (but Paul Ryan won't like them.)
If Republicans insist on slashing $25 billion from the budget, there are ways to do it wisely (but Paul Ryan won't like them.)
Dick Cheney 'Surprised' By 'Attack' On Liz Cheney Over Gay Marriage
Dick Cheney 'Surprised' By 'Attack' On Liz Cheney Over Gay Marriage:
Former Vice President Dick Cheney was floored when his daughter Liz became the target of a Facebook "attack" from within the family for her opposition to gay marriage.
Former Vice President Dick Cheney was floored when his daughter Liz became the target of a Facebook "attack" from within the family for her opposition to gay marriage.
House Dems To Hit 60 Republicans On Obamacare
House Dems To Hit 60 Republicans On Obamacare:
House Democrats' campaign arm plans to hit roughly 60 Republicans on Obamacare as part of the Obama administration's pushback against criticism by opponents of the healthcare law.
House Democrats' campaign arm plans to hit roughly 60 Republicans on Obamacare as part of the Obama administration's pushback against criticism by opponents of the healthcare law.
Obamacare's Mad Dash To Sign Americans Up For Health Insurance
Obamacare's Mad Dash To Sign Americans Up For Health Insurance:
After a painful two-month pause, the campaign to enroll people in Obamacare is finally beginning in earnest.
After a painful two-month pause, the campaign to enroll people in Obamacare is finally beginning in earnest.
Tuesday, December 03, 2013
America's Brazen Global Spying Sparks an International Fight for Basic Privacy Rights | Alternet
America's Brazen Global Spying Sparks an International Fight for Basic Privacy Rights | Alternet:
This surveillance of ordinary people, and heads of state, is like nothing we've seen before.
This surveillance of ordinary people, and heads of state, is like nothing we've seen before.
Corporate Elites Are Witnessing a Growing Wave of Resistance to the ‘Walmartization’ of Our Economy | Alternet
Corporate Elites Are Witnessing a Growing Wave of Resistance to the ‘Walmartization’ of Our Economy | Alternet:
The fight for more worker rights and wages is gaining a critical mass.
The fight for more worker rights and wages is gaining a critical mass.
Daily Kos: GOP: Founding Fathers created defect-free Constitution, ended slavery
Daily Kos: GOP: Founding Fathers created defect-free Constitution, ended slavery:
The Republican National Committee's proclamation honoring Rosa Park's "role in ending racism" is continuing to receive the scorn and derision it richly deserves. As it turns out, the GOP's attempt to literally whitewash American history is hardly its first.
The Republican National Committee's proclamation honoring Rosa Park's "role in ending racism" is continuing to receive the scorn and derision it richly deserves. As it turns out, the GOP's attempt to literally whitewash American history is hardly its first.
ALEC Facing 'Funding Crisis' Following Public Scrutiny | Common Dreams
ALEC Facing 'Funding Crisis' Following Public Scrutiny | Common Dreams:
On Tuesday, the day before the American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC) will convene with hundreds of state legislators and corporate representatives for a "states and nation policy summit" in Washington, The Guardian newspaper has published a series of ALEC documents that reveal the group is amidst a major funding shortfall and is scrambling to win back donors who have recently jumped ship.
On Tuesday, the day before the American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC) will convene with hundreds of state legislators and corporate representatives for a "states and nation policy summit" in Washington, The Guardian newspaper has published a series of ALEC documents that reveal the group is amidst a major funding shortfall and is scrambling to win back donors who have recently jumped ship.
Judge OK's Detroit Bankruptcy, Puts Public Pensions Under the Axe | Common Dreams
Judge OK's Detroit Bankruptcy, Puts Public Pensions Under the Axe | Common Dreams: U.S.
Bankruptcy Judge Steven Rhodes ruled Tuesday that the city of Detroit is eligible for bankruptcy after a long court battle between city appointed 'emergency manager' Kevyn Orr and union and labor activists who say the decision paves the way for workers' pensions to be cut.
Bankruptcy Judge Steven Rhodes ruled Tuesday that the city of Detroit is eligible for bankruptcy after a long court battle between city appointed 'emergency manager' Kevyn Orr and union and labor activists who say the decision paves the way for workers' pensions to be cut.
Are Senate Dems Trying to Scuttle the Iran Deal? | Alternet
Are Senate Dems Trying to Scuttle the Iran Deal? | Alternet:
They seem interested only in punishing the regime and the Iranian people as severely as possible.
They seem interested only in punishing the regime and the Iranian people as severely as possible.
LA Sheriff's Department Hired Officers With History of Misconduct Including Drunk Driving, Battery, Hiring Prostitutes | Alternet
LA Sheriff's Department Hired Officers With History of Misconduct Including Drunk Driving, Battery, Hiring Prostitutes | Alternet:
100 people hired by the department had made false statements at previous law enforcement agencies.
100 people hired by the department had made false statements at previous law enforcement agencies.
Major Trial Goes Right to the Heart of Massive U.S. Terrorism "No-Fly" Database | Alternet
Major Trial Goes Right to the Heart of Massive U.S. Terrorism "No-Fly" Database | Alternet:
After an eight-year-long legal battle, landmark case goes to trial in a federal court.
After an eight-year-long legal battle, landmark case goes to trial in a federal court.
Could Obamacare Have Been Better? | Alternet
Could Obamacare Have Been Better? | Alternet:
Even with the Affordable Care Act, about half of America's uninsured will not be helped, and many people with employer-provided insurance will face rising premiums.
Even with the Affordable Care Act, about half of America's uninsured will not be helped, and many people with employer-provided insurance will face rising premiums.
Global Elites Getting Nervous About Skyrocketing Inequality (But Won't Spare a Nickel to Fix It) | Alternet
Global Elites Getting Nervous About Skyrocketing Inequality (But Won't Spare a Nickel to Fix It) | Alternet:
There’s a lot of handwringing, but will elite anxiety bring any changes?
There’s a lot of handwringing, but will elite anxiety bring any changes?
The National Memo » The Far Right Issues Its ‘War On Christmas’ Enemies List
The National Memo » The Far Right Issues Its ‘War On Christmas’ Enemies List:
The pretend ‘War on Christmas‘ is even more contentious than usual this year.
As Rush Limbaugh was busy lecturing the Pope on the true meaning of Christianity, the National Republican Congressional Committee decided to remove a shirt that mocked liberals for saying “Happy Holidays,” after being reminded — possibly by House Majority Leader Eric Cantor (R-VA) — that not everyone in America is Christian. And Sarah Palin’s screed on the sanctity of Christmas was outsold online on Black Friday by comic Rob Delaney’s intentionally funny new book.
The pretend ‘War on Christmas‘ is even more contentious than usual this year.
As Rush Limbaugh was busy lecturing the Pope on the true meaning of Christianity, the National Republican Congressional Committee decided to remove a shirt that mocked liberals for saying “Happy Holidays,” after being reminded — possibly by House Majority Leader Eric Cantor (R-VA) — that not everyone in America is Christian. And Sarah Palin’s screed on the sanctity of Christmas was outsold online on Black Friday by comic Rob Delaney’s intentionally funny new book.
The National Memo » Chris Christie Is Quickly Becoming The New Mitt Romney
The National Memo » Chris Christie Is Quickly Becoming The New Mitt Romney:
Republicans spent most of 2011 pretending that Mitt Romney wouldn’t be their nominee for president. And when the 2012 primaries began, they did everything they could to damage their nominee before he could get to the general election.
Republicans spent most of 2011 pretending that Mitt Romney wouldn’t be their nominee for president. And when the 2012 primaries began, they did everything they could to damage their nominee before he could get to the general election.
The National Memo » Will Supreme Court Endow Corporations With A Soul, Too?
The National Memo » Will Supreme Court Endow Corporations With A Soul, Too?:
Private businesses are trying to block Obamacare on religious grounds? What do companies worship besides, perhaps, the almighty dollar?
Private businesses are trying to block Obamacare on religious grounds? What do companies worship besides, perhaps, the almighty dollar?
Report: Obamacare To Cost 'Billions Of Dollars Less Than Originally Projected'
Report: Obamacare To Cost 'Billions Of Dollars Less Than Originally Projected':
Among the GOP's myriad criticisms of the Affordable Care Act, one of the loudest has centered around the law's price tag. But according to one report, Obamacare won't be as costly as expected.
Among the GOP's myriad criticisms of the Affordable Care Act, one of the loudest has centered around the law's price tag. But according to one report, Obamacare won't be as costly as expected.
Monday, December 02, 2013
American Oligarchs Will Never Cancel the Debts Owed to Them - Truthdig
American Oligarchs Will Never Cancel the Debts Owed to Them - Truthdig:
“Every society in history for the last 4,000 years has found that the debts grow more rapidly than people can pay,” he says. “The problem is a small oligarchy of 10 percent of the population at the top to whom all of these net debts are owed to. You want to annual the debts to the top 10 percent. That’s what they’re not going to do. The oligarchy is running things. They would rather annul the bottom 90 percent right to live than to annul the money that’s due to them. They would rather strip the planet and shrink the population and be paid rather than give up their claims. That’s the political fight of the 21st century.”
The GOP vs. Its Own Base | Alternet
The GOP vs. Its Own Base | Alternet:
Rick Santorum is unhappy that older people, who tend to vote Republican, are getting insurance via the ACA.
Rick Santorum is unhappy that older people, who tend to vote Republican, are getting insurance via the ACA.
Where the Minimum Wage Would Be If It Kept Pace With the Earnings of the 1% | Alternet
Where the Minimum Wage Would Be If It Kept Pace With the Earnings of the 1% | Alternet:
Instead, the minimum wage has been lower than a poverty wage ever since 1982.
Instead, the minimum wage has been lower than a poverty wage ever since 1982.
Daily Kos: New poll: Americans optimistic about Obamacare, overwhelmingly oppose GOP position
Daily Kos: New poll: Americans optimistic about Obamacare, overwhelmingly oppose GOP position:
CNN has a very interesting new poll that not only debunks the notion that Americans have already decided Obamacare is a failure, but also reveals that Americans overwhelmingly oppose the GOP's conservative critique of the health care law.
CNN has a very interesting new poll that not only debunks the notion that Americans have already decided Obamacare is a failure, but also reveals that Americans overwhelmingly oppose the GOP's conservative critique of the health care law.
Daily Kos: Joe 'I'm not going to become a lobbyist' Lieberman becomes a lobbyist
Daily Kos: Joe 'I'm not going to become a lobbyist' Lieberman becomes a lobbyist:
Of course Joe Lieberman, once again, turned out to be a lying sack of shit
Of course Joe Lieberman, once again, turned out to be a lying sack of shit
Daily Kos: A Progressive Pope is Driving the Wingnuts Batty
Daily Kos: A Progressive Pope is Driving the Wingnuts Batty:
As Pope Francis comes more and more out of the Progressive Closet he begins to gain more and more pushback from the Rightwing who have long claimed that their Unrepentant Greed was Godly.
Unfortunately it isn't, and the Pope has been most clear on this.
As Pope Francis comes more and more out of the Progressive Closet he begins to gain more and more pushback from the Rightwing who have long claimed that their Unrepentant Greed was Godly.
Unfortunately it isn't, and the Pope has been most clear on this.
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