Friday, January 31, 2014
Fracked Up: New Study Links Birth Defects To Living Near Fracking Site
Fracked Up: New Study Links Birth Defects To Living Near Fracking Site
"The report by the Colorado School of Public Health, released Jan. 28, gathered evidence from heavily drilled rural Colorado, which has among the highest densities of oil and gas wells in the U.S."
"The report by the Colorado School of Public Health, released Jan. 28, gathered evidence from heavily drilled rural Colorado, which has among the highest densities of oil and gas wells in the U.S."
STUDY: Average Obamacare Plans Are Cheaper Than Employer-Sponsored Ones
www.thinkprogress.org/health/2014/01/30/3226271/obamacare-premiums-employer-plans/
"Premiums for most health plans sold through Obamacare’s state and federal marketplaces are lower than those for the average employer-sponsored plan, according to a new analysis by consulting firm PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC)."
"Premiums for most health plans sold through Obamacare’s state and federal marketplaces are lower than those for the average employer-sponsored plan, according to a new analysis by consulting firm PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC)."
The difficulty of being Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers
www.dailykos.com/story/2014/01/31/1274034/-The-difficulty-of-being-Rep-Cathy-McMorris-Rodgers
"And yet, in her district, people are flocking to Obamacare — well beyond the national average. Though she has been screening town hall meetings to highlight only critics of the new law, her constituents are doing something entirely different in making their personal health decisions. Which is a problem not just for McMorris Rodgers, but for most Republicans; the policies demanded by the party are often directly harmful to the actual constituents who keep them in office. The solution for this is, by and large, the solution we saw in McMorris Rodgers' State of the Union response. You say nothing, and you say nothing as generically as possible, and you hope and pray that nobody will point out that you have just spent so much time saying empty nothings"
"And yet, in her district, people are flocking to Obamacare — well beyond the national average. Though she has been screening town hall meetings to highlight only critics of the new law, her constituents are doing something entirely different in making their personal health decisions. Which is a problem not just for McMorris Rodgers, but for most Republicans; the policies demanded by the party are often directly harmful to the actual constituents who keep them in office. The solution for this is, by and large, the solution we saw in McMorris Rodgers' State of the Union response. You say nothing, and you say nothing as generically as possible, and you hope and pray that nobody will point out that you have just spent so much time saying empty nothings"
‘Dumocrap Slut’ Sandra Fluke Mulls Run For Congress, Right Wing Explodes With Misogyny
www.addictinginfo.org/2014/01/31/sandra-fluke-congress/
"A political party, by and large, is its base. The GOP has to appeal to its voters or they will not vote. It really is that simple. So when the base looks at Sandra Fluke and declares that she is a slutty whore, how do you think the GOP will treat her? Keep in mind, Sandra Fluke’s crime was to make the argument that, yes, women require birth control and it should be a mandatory part of any insurance policy. What a dirty tramp. And that, my friends, is where the GOP’s War on Women comes from. It’s what their base wants.
For this reason, the GOP and conservative entertainment complex have spent the last 3 years completely alienating female voters."
"A political party, by and large, is its base. The GOP has to appeal to its voters or they will not vote. It really is that simple. So when the base looks at Sandra Fluke and declares that she is a slutty whore, how do you think the GOP will treat her? Keep in mind, Sandra Fluke’s crime was to make the argument that, yes, women require birth control and it should be a mandatory part of any insurance policy. What a dirty tramp. And that, my friends, is where the GOP’s War on Women comes from. It’s what their base wants.
For this reason, the GOP and conservative entertainment complex have spent the last 3 years completely alienating female voters."
PERRspectives: Dr. Krauthammer Offers GOP a Cure for Its War on Women
PERRspectives: Dr. Krauthammer Offers GOP a Cure for Its War on Women
"Unfortunately, Dr. Krauthammer has misdiagnosed his patient's condition. Abortion is not "the subtext of about 90 percent of the alleged 'war on women.'" Instead, conservative stands on a broad constellation of issues--equal pay, protection from workplace discrimination, access to reproductive and other health services--are alienating American women, especially the unmarried. The right-wing jihad against Planned Parenthood, which provides millions of women with pap smears, breast cancer screenings and access to contraception, is just a comically pathetic smokescreen. (Texas learned that the hard way when it tried to slash $73 million in taxpayer funding for Planned Parenthood, only to discover that caring for 23,760 more babies resulting from reduced access to state-subsidized birth control would cost the Lone Star State almost four times as much.)"
"Unfortunately, Dr. Krauthammer has misdiagnosed his patient's condition. Abortion is not "the subtext of about 90 percent of the alleged 'war on women.'" Instead, conservative stands on a broad constellation of issues--equal pay, protection from workplace discrimination, access to reproductive and other health services--are alienating American women, especially the unmarried. The right-wing jihad against Planned Parenthood, which provides millions of women with pap smears, breast cancer screenings and access to contraception, is just a comically pathetic smokescreen. (Texas learned that the hard way when it tried to slash $73 million in taxpayer funding for Planned Parenthood, only to discover that caring for 23,760 more babies resulting from reduced access to state-subsidized birth control would cost the Lone Star State almost four times as much.)"
GOP’s Obamacare fiction series: Latest horror story a creation from start to finish
GOP’s Obamacare fiction series: Latest horror story a creation from start to finish
"A lot of people have made a lot of relevant points about “Bette” — whose Obamacare “horror story” figured prominently in the official GOP response to the State of the Union address delivered by Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers, R-Wash: Greg Sargent notes that Bette’s story reflects the GOP’s reluctance to help constituents navigate the law, even if it means making their lives worse; Steve Benen adds that it’s a sad comment on the GOP’s Obamacare “train wreck” narrative that they have such a hard time finding horror stories that stand up to scrutiny."
"A lot of people have made a lot of relevant points about “Bette” — whose Obamacare “horror story” figured prominently in the official GOP response to the State of the Union address delivered by Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers, R-Wash: Greg Sargent notes that Bette’s story reflects the GOP’s reluctance to help constituents navigate the law, even if it means making their lives worse; Steve Benen adds that it’s a sad comment on the GOP’s Obamacare “train wreck” narrative that they have such a hard time finding horror stories that stand up to scrutiny."
Corporations' 'Trade Secrets' Trump Public Health | Common Dreams
Corporations' 'Trade Secrets' Trump Public Health | Common Dreams
"Corporate power seems to be thwarting the public's right to know if the personal care products they use contain potentially harmful ingredients."
"Corporate power seems to be thwarting the public's right to know if the personal care products they use contain potentially harmful ingredients."
Second Christie Pal Invokes Fifth Amendment Rights
www.talkingpointsmemo.com/muckraker/bill-stepien-letter
"Bill Stepien, New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie's (R) former campaign manager, on Friday became the second Christie ally to invoke his 5th Amendment rights in response to the investigation of the George Washington Bridge lane closures."
"Bill Stepien, New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie's (R) former campaign manager, on Friday became the second Christie ally to invoke his 5th Amendment rights in response to the investigation of the George Washington Bridge lane closures."
Top Christie Aide Says Governor Was Aware Of Bridge Lane Closures
www.thinkprogress.org/home/2014/01/31/3236191/christie-aide-says-governor-aware-lane-closures/
"Former Port Authority official David Wildstein — the former director of interstate capital projects — said in a letter released by his lawyer that the Christie administration ordered the closure of the traffic lanes and said “evidence exists as well tying Mr. Christie to having knowledge of the lane closures, during the period when the lanes were closed, contrary to what the governor stated publicly in a two-hour press conference” three weeks ago."
"Former Port Authority official David Wildstein — the former director of interstate capital projects — said in a letter released by his lawyer that the Christie administration ordered the closure of the traffic lanes and said “evidence exists as well tying Mr. Christie to having knowledge of the lane closures, during the period when the lanes were closed, contrary to what the governor stated publicly in a two-hour press conference” three weeks ago."
Congressman Admits Racism A Factor In GOP Oppostion To Immigration Reform
Congressman Admits Racism A Factor In GOP Oppostion To Immigration Reform
"If you watch Fox News or listen to AM hate talk radio you've probably heard manyconservatives proclaim that racism is dead so git along little dogie."
"If you watch Fox News or listen to AM hate talk radio you've probably heard manyconservatives proclaim that racism is dead so git along little dogie."
David Wildstein: I Have Proof Christie Knew About Lane Closures
David Wildstein: I Have Proof Christie Knew About Lane Closures
"The former Port Authority official who personally oversaw the lane closings on the George Washington Bridge in the scandal now swirling around Gov. Chris Christie of New Jersey said on Friday that the governor knew about the lane closings when they were happening, and that he had the evidence to prove it."
"The former Port Authority official who personally oversaw the lane closings on the George Washington Bridge in the scandal now swirling around Gov. Chris Christie of New Jersey said on Friday that the governor knew about the lane closings when they were happening, and that he had the evidence to prove it."
Jon Stewart Destroys Republican Lies About Their Willingness to Work with President Obama (VIDEO)
www.forwardprogressives.com/jon-stewart-destroys-republican-lies-about-their-willingness-to-work-with-president-obama-video/
"And for the best example of this, honestly look no further than their opposition to the Affordable Care Act. This is a law that’s based on a previous law in Massachusetts (actually it’s essentially identical) that was passed by a Republican governor named Mitt Romney (you know, their 2012 Presidential candidate) and the whole idea of an “individual mandate” was originally a Republican idea.
Yet somehow now it’s “radical leftist socialism"."
"And for the best example of this, honestly look no further than their opposition to the Affordable Care Act. This is a law that’s based on a previous law in Massachusetts (actually it’s essentially identical) that was passed by a Republican governor named Mitt Romney (you know, their 2012 Presidential candidate) and the whole idea of an “individual mandate” was originally a Republican idea.
Yet somehow now it’s “radical leftist socialism"."
Illinois Republican who blamed LGBTs for autism and tornadoes still wants their votes
www.rawstory.com/rs/2014/01/31/illinois-republican-who-blamed-lgbts-for-autism-and-tornadoes-still-wants-their-votes/
"The Illinois Republican candidate who blamed LGBT people for autism and extreme weather events is reaching out to the community and soliciting their votes. Susanne Atanus, congressional candidate for Illinois’ District 9 told LGBT newspaper the Windy City Times that the LGBT community needs her and that she needs them.
However, when the Times asked about statements Atanus made in an editorial endorsement meeting with the Chicago Daily Herald, the candidate stuck by her statements that God has sent autism, dementia, and extreme weather as punishments for increasing acceptance of same-sex marriage in this country.
“God is super angry,” she said."
"The Illinois Republican candidate who blamed LGBT people for autism and extreme weather events is reaching out to the community and soliciting their votes. Susanne Atanus, congressional candidate for Illinois’ District 9 told LGBT newspaper the Windy City Times that the LGBT community needs her and that she needs them.
However, when the Times asked about statements Atanus made in an editorial endorsement meeting with the Chicago Daily Herald, the candidate stuck by her statements that God has sent autism, dementia, and extreme weather as punishments for increasing acceptance of same-sex marriage in this country.
“God is super angry,” she said."
Conservatives’ ridiculous war on the Girl Scouts
Conservatives’ ridiculous war on the Girl Scouts
"First, the frothing conservatives declared war on Halloween. Then, they declared war on the imagined war on Christmas. Now, in what is rapidly becoming a new seasonal tradition, the right is going after those cookie brandishing kids in green. It’s time again for the war on Girl Scouts."
"First, the frothing conservatives declared war on Halloween. Then, they declared war on the imagined war on Christmas. Now, in what is rapidly becoming a new seasonal tradition, the right is going after those cookie brandishing kids in green. It’s time again for the war on Girl Scouts."
Rove: Wendy Davis Doesn't Sound Like a Texan Because She Said 'Gal'
Rove: Wendy Davis Doesn't Sound Like a Texan Because She Said 'Gal'
"Here's 'Bush's Brain' with the latest round of attacks on Texas gubernatorial candidate Wendy Davis. Keep in mind this is the same man who encouraged George W. Bush to go buy that campaign prop of a ranch down in Crawford, Texas."
"Here's 'Bush's Brain' with the latest round of attacks on Texas gubernatorial candidate Wendy Davis. Keep in mind this is the same man who encouraged George W. Bush to go buy that campaign prop of a ranch down in Crawford, Texas."
Mitch McConnell Thinks You’re Stupid
www.talkingpointsmemo.com/cafe/mitch-mcconnell-thinks-you-re-stupid
"McConnell's brilliance is just how much dishonesty he can pack into so few words."
"McConnell's brilliance is just how much dishonesty he can pack into so few words."
These Five States Aren’t Lifting A Finger To Implement Obamacare
www.thinkprogress.org/health/2014/01/31/3231861/states-failing-obamacare/
"Most states are tackling at least one of the ACA’s three major components: enforcing its market reforms and consumer protections, establishing a state-run insurance marketplace, and agreeing to its optional Medicaid expansion. Seven states have taken charge of all three. However, the researchers write, “[a]t the other end, five states — Alabama, Missouri, Oklahoma, Texas, and Wyoming — declined to play a role in implementing the law’s three major components. These states will not enforce the market reforms, will have a federally facilitated marketplace where the state will play no formal role, and declined to expand Medicaid.”
These five states’ decision not to run their own marketplaces isn’t uncommon, considering that 36 states have defaulted to a federal exchange. Rejecting the Medicaid expansion is somewhat more rare, since 26 states and the District of Columbia have already opted for it and several others could still do so in 2014. But the fact that these states won’t even oversee basic consumer protections and reforms through local regulatory agencies suggests a desire to be a total dead-end when it comes to health reform."
"Most states are tackling at least one of the ACA’s three major components: enforcing its market reforms and consumer protections, establishing a state-run insurance marketplace, and agreeing to its optional Medicaid expansion. Seven states have taken charge of all three. However, the researchers write, “[a]t the other end, five states — Alabama, Missouri, Oklahoma, Texas, and Wyoming — declined to play a role in implementing the law’s three major components. These states will not enforce the market reforms, will have a federally facilitated marketplace where the state will play no formal role, and declined to expand Medicaid.”
These five states’ decision not to run their own marketplaces isn’t uncommon, considering that 36 states have defaulted to a federal exchange. Rejecting the Medicaid expansion is somewhat more rare, since 26 states and the District of Columbia have already opted for it and several others could still do so in 2014. But the fact that these states won’t even oversee basic consumer protections and reforms through local regulatory agencies suggests a desire to be a total dead-end when it comes to health reform."
Study: Thousands Of People Will Die In States That Don't Expand Medicaid
www.talkingpointsmemo.com/livewire/harvard-study-medicaid-expansion-deaths
"Researchers from Harvard University and City University of New York have estimated that between 7,115 and 17,104 deaths will be "attributable to the lack of Medicaid expansion in opt-out states" in a study published in Health Affairs."
"Researchers from Harvard University and City University of New York have estimated that between 7,115 and 17,104 deaths will be "attributable to the lack of Medicaid expansion in opt-out states" in a study published in Health Affairs."
In 120 Years Republicans Only Cry Tyranny When the Black President Uses Executive Orders
www.politicususa.com/2014/01/31/120-years-republicans-cry-tyranny-black-president-executive-orders.html
"For example, on December 23rd the President signed an order titled “Adjustments of Certain Rates of Pay” that mirrors an order Bush signed in December 2008 titled “Adjustments of Certain Rates of Pay.” On May 21, 2013 the President signed an order titled “Providing an Order of Succession within the Department of Agriculture” that Bush called “Amending the Order of Succession Within the Department of Agriculture” and signed it in January 2009 days before leaving office. President Obama signed an order titled “Continuance of Certain Federal Advisory Committees” on September 20, 2013, and Bush signed the “Continuance of Certain Federal Advisory Committees” on September 28, 2007. On December 7, 2012 President Obama signed an order titled “Establishing the Hurricane Sandy Rebuilding Task Force” that Bush signed on November 1, 2005 only titled “Creation of the Gulf Coast Recovery and Rebuilding Council.” The executive orders are nearly identical, but when a Black President signs them he is a dictator, oversteps his authority, and thinks he is a king."
"For example, on December 23rd the President signed an order titled “Adjustments of Certain Rates of Pay” that mirrors an order Bush signed in December 2008 titled “Adjustments of Certain Rates of Pay.” On May 21, 2013 the President signed an order titled “Providing an Order of Succession within the Department of Agriculture” that Bush called “Amending the Order of Succession Within the Department of Agriculture” and signed it in January 2009 days before leaving office. President Obama signed an order titled “Continuance of Certain Federal Advisory Committees” on September 20, 2013, and Bush signed the “Continuance of Certain Federal Advisory Committees” on September 28, 2007. On December 7, 2012 President Obama signed an order titled “Establishing the Hurricane Sandy Rebuilding Task Force” that Bush signed on November 1, 2005 only titled “Creation of the Gulf Coast Recovery and Rebuilding Council.” The executive orders are nearly identical, but when a Black President signs them he is a dictator, oversteps his authority, and thinks he is a king."
Why the GOP’s civil war is only going to get uglier
Why the GOP’s civil war is only going to get uglier
"Ultimately, the Republican Party’s civil war will be long and protracted, especially given the vast sums of money involved in determining a winner. The Chamber of Commerce’s war chest and Karl Rove’s epic fundraising will only go so far in overcoming a triumvirate that not only has boots on the ground in the form of enthusiastic ballot box lever pullers, but also the financial backing of America’s most prominent libertarians: Charles and David Koch."
"Ultimately, the Republican Party’s civil war will be long and protracted, especially given the vast sums of money involved in determining a winner. The Chamber of Commerce’s war chest and Karl Rove’s epic fundraising will only go so far in overcoming a triumvirate that not only has boots on the ground in the form of enthusiastic ballot box lever pullers, but also the financial backing of America’s most prominent libertarians: Charles and David Koch."
Terrorized by Their Base, Republicans Try To Hide Their Efforts to Get Something Done
www.politicususa.com/2014/01/30/republicans-base-get-something-done.html
"So Republicans are going to try to keep feeding the base their hate crack, but secretly work with Democrats to pass just enough that they can’t be labeled the party that hates everyone, refuses to pay its bills, and is deliberately stopping the economic recovery. If you’re looking for courage or integrity, best look elsewhere"
"So Republicans are going to try to keep feeding the base their hate crack, but secretly work with Democrats to pass just enough that they can’t be labeled the party that hates everyone, refuses to pay its bills, and is deliberately stopping the economic recovery. If you’re looking for courage or integrity, best look elsewhere"
Thursday, January 30, 2014
Provision Requiring Lawmakers to Disclose Subsidies Removed From Final Farm Bill
Provision Requiring Lawmakers to Disclose Subsidies Removed From Final Farm Bill
"I guess this shouldn't surprise anyone. It looks like members of Congress are tired of allowing the rest of us to know just how much they receive in farm subsidies.
The Environmental Working Group reported that "15 members of Congress or their spouses benefitted from a total of $237,921 in taxpayer-funded farm subsidy payments last year." Thanks to a provision slipped quietly into the new farm bill, we won't have access to that information.
Heaven forbid someone might use the information to criticize them for taking their corporate welfare while at the same time being more than willing to cut food stamps for those living in poverty."
"I guess this shouldn't surprise anyone. It looks like members of Congress are tired of allowing the rest of us to know just how much they receive in farm subsidies.
The Environmental Working Group reported that "15 members of Congress or their spouses benefitted from a total of $237,921 in taxpayer-funded farm subsidy payments last year." Thanks to a provision slipped quietly into the new farm bill, we won't have access to that information.
Heaven forbid someone might use the information to criticize them for taking their corporate welfare while at the same time being more than willing to cut food stamps for those living in poverty."
CEO and Former Republican Senate Candidate: “Mentally Retarded” Worth About $2 an Hour
www.forwardprogressives.com/ceo-and-former-republican-senate-candidate-mentally-retarded-worth-about-2-an-hour/
"Instead of having $2 an hour sweatshops like they have all over developing Asian countries, we’d have them here.
This whole argument is absolutely absurd. And Mr. Schiff’s ignorance about it was appalling."
"Instead of having $2 an hour sweatshops like they have all over developing Asian countries, we’d have them here.
This whole argument is absolutely absurd. And Mr. Schiff’s ignorance about it was appalling."
Texas Textbooks Expected To Conform To Extremists' Standards
Texas Textbooks Expected To Conform To Extremists' Standards
"The Texas School Board's upcoming textbook evaluation will be focused on making sure students are unaware and uninformed."
"The Texas School Board's upcoming textbook evaluation will be focused on making sure students are unaware and uninformed."
The GOP Psyche: An Explainer
The GOP Psyche: An Explainer
"The GOP believes they’re patriots and the stewards of free markets. Once that belief collides with facts, like conservative policies asphyxiating the middle class, they have to make it the fault of an enemy. Meaning: To Republicans a Democratic twice elected (by huge margins) President has to be a foreign Muslim treasonous dictator whose economic policies are killing us all because otherwise everything they’ve ever held true is a lie.
This explains why Republicans have to be against anything proposed by the man the Heritage Foundation’s president, Jim DeMint, hilariously calls our Imperial President. Unilaterally giving federal janitors a raise doesn’t exactly make one Darth Vader unless your own sense of self is in a death grip.
In cognitive dissonance theory, proof doesn’t matter in self-perception. History can be revised to gel with belief."
"The GOP believes they’re patriots and the stewards of free markets. Once that belief collides with facts, like conservative policies asphyxiating the middle class, they have to make it the fault of an enemy. Meaning: To Republicans a Democratic twice elected (by huge margins) President has to be a foreign Muslim treasonous dictator whose economic policies are killing us all because otherwise everything they’ve ever held true is a lie.
This explains why Republicans have to be against anything proposed by the man the Heritage Foundation’s president, Jim DeMint, hilariously calls our Imperial President. Unilaterally giving federal janitors a raise doesn’t exactly make one Darth Vader unless your own sense of self is in a death grip.
In cognitive dissonance theory, proof doesn’t matter in self-perception. History can be revised to gel with belief."
Mitch McConnell Thinks You’re Stupid
www.talkingpointsmemo.com/cafe/mitch-mcconnell-thinks-you-re-stupid
"That's right: once again, the Senate minority leader insisted congressional Republicans have to use the debt ceiling to extract concession. McConnell's brilliance is just how much dishonesty he can pack into so few words."
"That's right: once again, the Senate minority leader insisted congressional Republicans have to use the debt ceiling to extract concession. McConnell's brilliance is just how much dishonesty he can pack into so few words."
STUDY: Average Obamacare Plans Are Cheaper Than Employer-Sponsored Ones
www.thinkprogress.org/health/2014/01/30/3226271/obamacare-premiums-employer-plans/
"Premiums for most health plans sold through Obamacare’s state and federal marketplaces are lower than those for the average employer-sponsored plan, according to a new analysis by consulting firm PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC)."
"Premiums for most health plans sold through Obamacare’s state and federal marketplaces are lower than those for the average employer-sponsored plan, according to a new analysis by consulting firm PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC)."
SURVEY: Americans Still Don’t Know About Obamacare’s Biggest Consumer Protections
www.thinkprogress.org/health/2014/01/30/3229051/americans-know-obamacare/
"The poll finds that the vast majority of Americans (about 62 percent) think that only “some” parts of the Affordable Care Act have gone into effect, even though most of its major provisions became a reality on January 1. Nearly ten percent don’t think any of it has gone into effect at all. And large shares of Americans — particularly the uninsured — don’t even know that the law contains popular provisions such as prohibiting insurers from denying coverage to people with pre-existing conditions and an optional expansion of Medicaid"
"The poll finds that the vast majority of Americans (about 62 percent) think that only “some” parts of the Affordable Care Act have gone into effect, even though most of its major provisions became a reality on January 1. Nearly ten percent don’t think any of it has gone into effect at all. And large shares of Americans — particularly the uninsured — don’t even know that the law contains popular provisions such as prohibiting insurers from denying coverage to people with pre-existing conditions and an optional expansion of Medicaid"
You Don't Say: Republicans Admit Anti-Immigrant Movement Driven By Racism | Right Wing Watch
You Don't Say: Republicans Admit Anti-Immigrant Movement Driven By Racism | Right Wing Watch
"Buzzfeed’s John Stanton today managed to get Republican lawmakers on record admitting that the movement to stop immigration report is at least party driven by racial animosity. One Southern Republican member of Congress, who requested anonymity, told Stanton outright that “part of it…it’s racial.” South Carolina Sen. Lindsey Graham put it a little more delicately, referring to “ugliness around the issue of immigration"."
"Buzzfeed’s John Stanton today managed to get Republican lawmakers on record admitting that the movement to stop immigration report is at least party driven by racial animosity. One Southern Republican member of Congress, who requested anonymity, told Stanton outright that “part of it…it’s racial.” South Carolina Sen. Lindsey Graham put it a little more delicately, referring to “ugliness around the issue of immigration"."
Congresswoman Says She Supports Equal Pay Laws, Voted Against Them Four Times
www.thinkprogress.org/economy/2014/01/30/3227971/mcmorris-rodgers-equal-pay/
"But McMorris Rodgers actually voted against laws meant to address the pay disparity between men and women four times. She voted against the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act twice, which lengthened the time for victims of pay discrimination to file a complaint. She also voted twice against the Paycheck Fairness Act, a measure aimed at closing the gender wage gap by ending the practice of salary secrecy, thus giving women and others a better chance of rooting out discrimination, narrowing the guidelines for what pay disparities are justified, and strengthening penalties for discrimination as a way to deter it, among other things.
Republicans may say they support equal pay, but they voted unanimously against the Paycheck Fairness Act in the Senate 2010 and just 10 voted for it in the House. Senate Republicans blocked it again in 2012 with a filibuster."
"But McMorris Rodgers actually voted against laws meant to address the pay disparity between men and women four times. She voted against the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act twice, which lengthened the time for victims of pay discrimination to file a complaint. She also voted twice against the Paycheck Fairness Act, a measure aimed at closing the gender wage gap by ending the practice of salary secrecy, thus giving women and others a better chance of rooting out discrimination, narrowing the guidelines for what pay disparities are justified, and strengthening penalties for discrimination as a way to deter it, among other things.
Republicans may say they support equal pay, but they voted unanimously against the Paycheck Fairness Act in the Senate 2010 and just 10 voted for it in the House. Senate Republicans blocked it again in 2012 with a filibuster."
Rand Paul: Cut Benefits To Single Moms So They'll Stop Being Sluts
Rand Paul: Cut Benefits To Single Moms So They'll Stop Being Sluts
"Libertarians' plan for women: Find a man. Senator Rand Paul is out there floating all kinds of ideas to wreak havoc on poor single women, including this doozy"
"Libertarians' plan for women: Find a man. Senator Rand Paul is out there floating all kinds of ideas to wreak havoc on poor single women, including this doozy"
The Truth About Executive Orders Republicans Won’t Like Seeing
www.forwardprogressives.com/the-truth-about-executive-orders-republicans-wont-like-seeing/
"In fact, President Obama hasn’t even used the executive order all that much. Five years into his presidency, he’s issued 167 executive orders – about 33.4 per year.
Here are the last four presidents who’ve served consecutive terms and how many executive orders they’ve issued, as well as their average per year:
Ronald Reagan: 381 total, 47.6 per year
Bill Clinton: 364 total, 45.5 per year
George W. Bush: 291 total, 36.4 per year
Barack Obama: 167 so far, 33.4 per year (projected total 267)
And no, those numbers aren’t “liberally biased” – they’re all linked and sourced to our National Archives.
So I’ll just go ahead and clarify these numbers for those who might not be able to understand them.
Out of the past four two-term presidents, the one who’s issued the most executive orders would be – “conservative hero,” “fiscally responsible,” “small government loving,” “Constitutional legend” Ronald Reagan."
"In fact, President Obama hasn’t even used the executive order all that much. Five years into his presidency, he’s issued 167 executive orders – about 33.4 per year.
Here are the last four presidents who’ve served consecutive terms and how many executive orders they’ve issued, as well as their average per year:
Ronald Reagan: 381 total, 47.6 per year
Bill Clinton: 364 total, 45.5 per year
George W. Bush: 291 total, 36.4 per year
Barack Obama: 167 so far, 33.4 per year (projected total 267)
And no, those numbers aren’t “liberally biased” – they’re all linked and sourced to our National Archives.
So I’ll just go ahead and clarify these numbers for those who might not be able to understand them.
Out of the past four two-term presidents, the one who’s issued the most executive orders would be – “conservative hero,” “fiscally responsible,” “small government loving,” “Constitutional legend” Ronald Reagan."
Wednesday, January 29, 2014
Mitch McConnell's Kentucky seat in serious danger of going blue
www.dailykos.com/story/2014/01/29/1273477/-Mitch-McConnell-s-Kentucky-seat-in-serious-danger-of-going-Blue
"Can this race be any closer? Not only are the two candidates neck-and-neck, but McConnell is still well under the magical 50 percent-safe mark, meaning his re-election chances are seriously threatened."
"Can this race be any closer? Not only are the two candidates neck-and-neck, but McConnell is still well under the magical 50 percent-safe mark, meaning his re-election chances are seriously threatened."
Why Libertarians Play the Clowns in the Circus Show Called the Republican Party
www.alternet.org/tea-party-and-right/how-libertarians-play-clowns-circus-show-called-republican-party
"Ultimately, the Republican Party’s civil war will be long and protracted, especially given the vast sums of money involved in determining a winner. The Chamber of Commerce’s war chest and Karl Rove’s epic fundraising will only go so far in overcoming a triumvirate that not only has boots on the ground in the form of enthusiastic ballot box lever pullers, but also the financial backing of America’s most prominent libertarians: Charles and David Koch."
"Ultimately, the Republican Party’s civil war will be long and protracted, especially given the vast sums of money involved in determining a winner. The Chamber of Commerce’s war chest and Karl Rove’s epic fundraising will only go so far in overcoming a triumvirate that not only has boots on the ground in the form of enthusiastic ballot box lever pullers, but also the financial backing of America’s most prominent libertarians: Charles and David Koch."
Monarch Butterfly in 'Grave Danger' | Common Dreams
Monarch Butterfly in 'Grave Danger' | Common Dreams
"Herbicides, deforestation and climate conditions putting the monarch in free fall"
"Herbicides, deforestation and climate conditions putting the monarch in free fall"
West Virginia Water Contains Formaldehyde, Official Says
www.thinkprogress.org/climate/2014/01/29/3222571/west-virginia-formaldehyde/
"A West Virginia state official told a legislative panel on Wednesday that he “can guarantee” residents are breathing in formaldehyde, a known carcinogen, nearly three weeks after a massive chemical spill contaminated the water supply for more than 300,000 residents."
"A West Virginia state official told a legislative panel on Wednesday that he “can guarantee” residents are breathing in formaldehyde, a known carcinogen, nearly three weeks after a massive chemical spill contaminated the water supply for more than 300,000 residents."
Five Years of Lilly Ledbetter and Still More Work Needs To Be Done
Five Years of Lilly Ledbetter and Still More Work Needs To Be Done
"Women who work full time, year round still only earn 77 percent of what men earn, a pay gap that accumulates over time. For a 40-year working career, the average woman loses $431,000—no small amount. And, women with a college degree are no exception. Over their lifetime, women with at least a bachelor’s degree earn approximately $713,000 less than similarly educated men over their lifetime. Additionally, over half of women workers make poverty-level wages, a wage below what a full-time, full-year worker would have to earn to give a family of four enough income to reach the poverty threshold."
"Women who work full time, year round still only earn 77 percent of what men earn, a pay gap that accumulates over time. For a 40-year working career, the average woman loses $431,000—no small amount. And, women with a college degree are no exception. Over their lifetime, women with at least a bachelor’s degree earn approximately $713,000 less than similarly educated men over their lifetime. Additionally, over half of women workers make poverty-level wages, a wage below what a full-time, full-year worker would have to earn to give a family of four enough income to reach the poverty threshold."
Why Does Paul Ryan Hate Hourly Workers?
Why Does Paul Ryan Hate Hourly Workers?
"Listen to Paul Ryan's arguments against the minimum wage here and see if you can actually identify anything that sounds logical."
"Listen to Paul Ryan's arguments against the minimum wage here and see if you can actually identify anything that sounds logical."
True GOP SOTU Response Caught On Tape
True GOP SOTU Response Caught On Tape
"mashup of Republicans' classless response to the president's policy proposals speak far louder than Cathy McMorris-Rodgers did."
"mashup of Republicans' classless response to the president's policy proposals speak far louder than Cathy McMorris-Rodgers did."
Why Did Obama Go to Costco? Our Wage Calculator Explains
www.motherjones.com/politics/2014/01/costco-vs-walmart-how-many-hours-do-you-need-work-survive
"Check how many hours it would take you to make a living working at Costco vs. Walmart."
"Check how many hours it would take you to make a living working at Costco vs. Walmart."
President Obama Takes Down Walmart By Giving A Speech at Costco
www.politicususa.com/2014/01/29/president-obama-takes-walmart-giving-speech-costco.html
"Costco proves both the Republican Party and Walmart wrong. A company can pay its employees well and be successful. Republicans always frame any proposed increase in the minimum wage as a choice between paying employees well and jobs. Even though research shows that increasing the minimum wage does not cause employers to layoff workers, Republicans still stick to this tired old talking point."
"Costco proves both the Republican Party and Walmart wrong. A company can pay its employees well and be successful. Republicans always frame any proposed increase in the minimum wage as a choice between paying employees well and jobs. Even though research shows that increasing the minimum wage does not cause employers to layoff workers, Republicans still stick to this tired old talking point."
Elizabeth Warren: 'It Hurts... It Just Makes Me Madder Than Hell'
Elizabeth Warren: 'It Hurts... It Just Makes Me Madder Than Hell'
"That’s what Elizabeth Warren does; that is who she is. Long before she became a Senator or public official, she was a fierce advocate for consumers and working families who had been chewed up and spit out by the financial (and political) system. She came up out of the movement of activists who wanted to help rebuild the middle class, and make it easier for young and poor people to climb the ladder into that middle class. And she still believes in that movement."
"That’s what Elizabeth Warren does; that is who she is. Long before she became a Senator or public official, she was a fierce advocate for consumers and working families who had been chewed up and spit out by the financial (and political) system. She came up out of the movement of activists who wanted to help rebuild the middle class, and make it easier for young and poor people to climb the ladder into that middle class. And she still believes in that movement."
Here's what Obama said that made Republicans sit on their hands
www.dailykos.com/story/2014/01/29/1273402/-Here-s-what-Obama-said-that-made-Republicans-sit-on-their-hands
"Republicans couldn't bring themselves to applaud. And if you can't understand why in the world they'd be against all that stuff, then you definitely should be voting Democratic in November."
"Republicans couldn't bring themselves to applaud. And if you can't understand why in the world they'd be against all that stuff, then you definitely should be voting Democratic in November."
Obama Goes Full Feminist: ‘Time To Do Away With Workplace Policies That Belong In A ‘Mad Men’ Episode’
www.thinkprogress.org/economy/2014/01/28/3219231/obama-feminist-mad-men/
"President Obama let his feminist flag fly during his State of the Union address on Tuesday night. Citing pay disparity and paid leave policy, he argued — to loud applause — that women are still unequal in the United States, and that there are policies that can change that"
"President Obama let his feminist flag fly during his State of the Union address on Tuesday night. Citing pay disparity and paid leave policy, he argued — to loud applause — that women are still unequal in the United States, and that there are policies that can change that"
How Fox Anchor MacCallum Responds To Call For Equal Pay: Most Women Don't Want "A Little Special Handout"
www.mediamatters.org/video/2014/01/29/how-fox-anchor-maccallum-responds-to-call-for-e/197810
"Fox Anchor MacCallum Responds To Call For Equal Pay: Most Women Don't Want "A Little Special Handout""
"Fox Anchor MacCallum Responds To Call For Equal Pay: Most Women Don't Want "A Little Special Handout""
Senator Floats Idea To Penalize Low-Income Women Who Have Children
www.thinkprogress.org/economy/2014/01/29/3220881/rand-paul-welfare-cap-children/
"At a luncheon for the Chamber of Commerce in Lexington, KY, Sen. Rand Paul (R-KY) floated the idea of capping government benefits for women who have children out of wedlock, the Lexington Herald-Leader reports."
"At a luncheon for the Chamber of Commerce in Lexington, KY, Sen. Rand Paul (R-KY) floated the idea of capping government benefits for women who have children out of wedlock, the Lexington Herald-Leader reports."
The Stealth Privatization of Pennsylvania's Bridges
The Stealth Privatization of Pennsylvania's Bridges
"Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Corbett's administration has decided to sign a 40-year contract to privatize the state's crumbling bridges, but there has been little to no media coverage of the deal and what it will mean for two generations of Pennsylvanians."
"Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Corbett's administration has decided to sign a 40-year contract to privatize the state's crumbling bridges, but there has been little to no media coverage of the deal and what it will mean for two generations of Pennsylvanians."
Secret Court Ruling Could Undermine Wisconsin Campaign Finance Law
Secret Court Ruling Could Undermine Wisconsin Campaign Finance Law
"The implication of this secret ruling, if it is upheld, is that a candidate for Wisconsin office can now operate hand-in-glove with a nonprofit like Wisconsin Club for Growth -- which can accept unlimited donations and is under no obligation to disclose those donations -- as long as Wisconsin Club for Growth's ads omit words like "vote for" or "vote against." This would have the effect of undermining the state campaign finance laws that limit how much an individual can donate to a candidate and require disclosure, election law experts say."
"The implication of this secret ruling, if it is upheld, is that a candidate for Wisconsin office can now operate hand-in-glove with a nonprofit like Wisconsin Club for Growth -- which can accept unlimited donations and is under no obligation to disclose those donations -- as long as Wisconsin Club for Growth's ads omit words like "vote for" or "vote against." This would have the effect of undermining the state campaign finance laws that limit how much an individual can donate to a candidate and require disclosure, election law experts say."
Why A Congressman Threatened To Throw A Reporter Off A Balcony Last Night
www.thinkprogress.org/politics/2014/01/29/3220031/michael-grimm-balcony/
"NY1 reporter Michael Scotto was referring to an ongoing federal investigation into whether Grimm illegally solicited and accepted contributions from foreign donors, offered to help a foreign national get a green card in exchange for campaign cash, and filed false campaign finance disclosures. A new report last week also suggested that he may have engaged in a controversial — and potentially illegal — “donor swapping” scheme, circumventing campaign contribution limits by having donors make contributions to a different campaign and then having that candidate transfer the money."
"NY1 reporter Michael Scotto was referring to an ongoing federal investigation into whether Grimm illegally solicited and accepted contributions from foreign donors, offered to help a foreign national get a green card in exchange for campaign cash, and filed false campaign finance disclosures. A new report last week also suggested that he may have engaged in a controversial — and potentially illegal — “donor swapping” scheme, circumventing campaign contribution limits by having donors make contributions to a different campaign and then having that candidate transfer the money."
GOP Lawmaker Threatens Reporter With Violence (VIDEO)
www.addictinginfo.org/2014/01/29/ny-rep-grimm-threaten-reporter/
"The allegations have involved Rep. Grimm, himself. Several campaign contributors told the FBI that they were told by both Grimm and Durand that they would find ways to accept donations which exceeded the federal limit. That’s a definite no-no and could get Grimm in a LOT of trouble."
"The allegations have involved Rep. Grimm, himself. Several campaign contributors told the FBI that they were told by both Grimm and Durand that they would find ways to accept donations which exceeded the federal limit. That’s a definite no-no and could get Grimm in a LOT of trouble."
Staten Island Republican caught bullying reporter: ‘I will break you in half’
www.rawstory.com/rs/2014/01/28/staten-island-republican-caught-bullying-reporter-i-will-break-you-in-half/
"Questions began to mount concerning Grimm’s finances after one of his fundraisers, Diana Durand, was arrested by federal officials earlier this month on suspicion of using fake donors to funnel nearly $10,000 into his campaign."
"Questions began to mount concerning Grimm’s finances after one of his fundraisers, Diana Durand, was arrested by federal officials earlier this month on suspicion of using fake donors to funnel nearly $10,000 into his campaign."
GOP Congressman Threatens Reporter Live On Air
GOP Congressman Threatens Reporter Live On Air
""A New York congressman threatening a reporter live on air. Seems the heat is getting to Michael Grimm." Just don't ever ask him about his corruption."
""A New York congressman threatening a reporter live on air. Seems the heat is getting to Michael Grimm." Just don't ever ask him about his corruption."
TDS: Peter Schiff Suggests the 'Mentally Retarded' Could be Paid $2 an Hour
TDS: Peter Schiff Suggests the 'Mentally Retarded' Could be Paid $2 an Hour
"This is what Republicans and wingnut libertarians think of most of us. They just usually don't say it out loud as Peter Schiff did to The Daily Show's Samantha Bee."
"This is what Republicans and wingnut libertarians think of most of us. They just usually don't say it out loud as Peter Schiff did to The Daily Show's Samantha Bee."
Rand Paul Doesn't Know How To Stop Digging The Hole He's In
Rand Paul Doesn't Know How To Stop Digging The Hole He's In
"Rand's got to be pretty desperate to start banging this drum before Hillary decides to run, especially since she was the wronged party in the whole thing. It's ancient history now, but certainly doesn't reflect badly on her."
"Rand's got to be pretty desperate to start banging this drum before Hillary decides to run, especially since she was the wronged party in the whole thing. It's ancient history now, but certainly doesn't reflect badly on her."
Tuesday, January 28, 2014
Here’s the full text of President Obama’s 2014 State of the Union address
Here’s the full text of President Obama’s 2014 State of the Union address
President urges Congress to make 2014 "a year of action"
President urges Congress to make 2014 "a year of action"
Rep. Randy Weber's (TX) Repulsive SOTU Tweet: 'Kommandant-In-Chef,' 'Socialist Dictator', A-Lying'
Rep. Randy Weber's (TX) Repulsive SOTU Tweet: 'Kommandant-In-Chef,' 'Socialist Dictator', A-Lying'
"But for some Republicans, the presidency holds no meaning, especially if a black Democratic politician holds the office."
"But for some Republicans, the presidency holds no meaning, especially if a black Democratic politician holds the office."
GOP Can’t Lay Down Arms in War Against Women
www.politicususa.com/2014/01/27/gop-lay-arms-war-women.html
"Facing such an overwhelming, continuing load of self-defeating sound bites, has party leadership ordered an immediate moratorium on public appeals to those carrying two X chromosomes? You know, until representatives find something intelligent to say? Nope. Instead, they have adopted a tactic rather similar to the right’s efforts to recast income inequality discussions as “class warfare” rhetoric from the left. This is why we have to put up with Rick Santorum appearing on CNN in a lame attempt to deflect responsibility. He told the hosts of the network’s Crossfire, “I think what Governor Huckabee was saying is we’ve seen an unprecedented assault by the Democrats against Republicans claiming there’s a war on women.”
The idea here is that if one denies a course of action loudly and often enough, perhaps the right people can be convinced that what they’re seeing and hearing is just an illusion. The Republican National Committee has held a series of very important meetings designed to consider ways to narrow the party’s gender gap. Unfortunately, they persist in inviting high-profile caucus leaders to speak at these events. And the cycle of repugnance and alienation from female voters continues.
I have learned the hard way over the years that when a person or group reveals something about themselves, repeatedly no less, you must believe them. There is simply no other logical option. Conserve your oxygen, Santorum. The jig is up>"
"Facing such an overwhelming, continuing load of self-defeating sound bites, has party leadership ordered an immediate moratorium on public appeals to those carrying two X chromosomes? You know, until representatives find something intelligent to say? Nope. Instead, they have adopted a tactic rather similar to the right’s efforts to recast income inequality discussions as “class warfare” rhetoric from the left. This is why we have to put up with Rick Santorum appearing on CNN in a lame attempt to deflect responsibility. He told the hosts of the network’s Crossfire, “I think what Governor Huckabee was saying is we’ve seen an unprecedented assault by the Democrats against Republicans claiming there’s a war on women.”
The idea here is that if one denies a course of action loudly and often enough, perhaps the right people can be convinced that what they’re seeing and hearing is just an illusion. The Republican National Committee has held a series of very important meetings designed to consider ways to narrow the party’s gender gap. Unfortunately, they persist in inviting high-profile caucus leaders to speak at these events. And the cycle of repugnance and alienation from female voters continues.
I have learned the hard way over the years that when a person or group reveals something about themselves, repeatedly no less, you must believe them. There is simply no other logical option. Conserve your oxygen, Santorum. The jig is up>"
6 Policies to Combat Inequality
www.americanprogress.org/issues/economy/news/2014/01/28/82929/6-policies-to-combat-inequality/
"One of the most direct and efficient ways to address inequality is to raise the federal minimum wage."
"One of the most direct and efficient ways to address inequality is to raise the federal minimum wage."
Hypocrite Mike Huckabee Supported Contraception Coverage While Governor of Arkansas
www.politicususa.com/2014/01/28/hypocrite-mike-huckabee-supported-contraception-coverage-governor-arkansas.html
"There is no shortage of examples of Republicans opposing and rejecting President Obama’s proposals they supported when a white man was president, and it is proof their five year obstructionism, attempts to thwart economic recovery, and assault on Americans is borne of racism to portray the Black President as incapable of leading the country out of their 8 year disaster while Bush was president.
Early in Obama’s first term, Republicans vehemently opposed the idea of economic stimulus, and yet in 2002 Paul Ryan made an impassioned plea for stimulus, including extending unemployment benefits, in a package supported by George W. Bush. Ryan said at the time “What we’re trying to accomplish today with the passage of this third stimulus package is to create jobs and help the unemployed.” Six years later, the Republican Economic Stimulus Act of 2008 was praised by white president Bush as providing “a booster shot for our economy” that Eric Cantor, John Boehner, Mitch McConnell and nearly 200 other Republicans agreed was necessary to keep the economy running smoothly."
"There is no shortage of examples of Republicans opposing and rejecting President Obama’s proposals they supported when a white man was president, and it is proof their five year obstructionism, attempts to thwart economic recovery, and assault on Americans is borne of racism to portray the Black President as incapable of leading the country out of their 8 year disaster while Bush was president.
Early in Obama’s first term, Republicans vehemently opposed the idea of economic stimulus, and yet in 2002 Paul Ryan made an impassioned plea for stimulus, including extending unemployment benefits, in a package supported by George W. Bush. Ryan said at the time “What we’re trying to accomplish today with the passage of this third stimulus package is to create jobs and help the unemployed.” Six years later, the Republican Economic Stimulus Act of 2008 was praised by white president Bush as providing “a booster shot for our economy” that Eric Cantor, John Boehner, Mitch McConnell and nearly 200 other Republicans agreed was necessary to keep the economy running smoothly."
A Declaration of the End of the Reagan Era
A Declaration of the End of the Reagan Era
"In every meaningful way, Reaganomics is alive and well, and still controlling our economy.
But what has 33 years of failed Reaganomics brought us?
It's brought us record levels of financial instability. It's brought us trade policies that have destroyed the working class, and union policies that have destroyed labor in America.
But most importantly, it's brought us tax policies that have exacerbated inequality, wrecked our economy, and put us at the mercy of boom and bust cycles.
When Ronald Reagan stepped foot inside the White House, the top marginal tax rate was at 74 percent, and a third of the federal government's income came from corporations.
Today, the top tax rate is sitting at 39%, most rich people pay a maximum of 20%, and corporations are only paying around 11% of the total cost of running the federal government.
Thanks to 33 years of failed Reaganomics, many Americans have bought the lie that tax cuts are a cure all for a struggling economy."
"In every meaningful way, Reaganomics is alive and well, and still controlling our economy.
But what has 33 years of failed Reaganomics brought us?
It's brought us record levels of financial instability. It's brought us trade policies that have destroyed the working class, and union policies that have destroyed labor in America.
But most importantly, it's brought us tax policies that have exacerbated inequality, wrecked our economy, and put us at the mercy of boom and bust cycles.
When Ronald Reagan stepped foot inside the White House, the top marginal tax rate was at 74 percent, and a third of the federal government's income came from corporations.
Today, the top tax rate is sitting at 39%, most rich people pay a maximum of 20%, and corporations are only paying around 11% of the total cost of running the federal government.
Thanks to 33 years of failed Reaganomics, many Americans have bought the lie that tax cuts are a cure all for a struggling economy."
The Tight Link Between the Minimum Wage and Wage Inequality
The Tight Link Between the Minimum Wage and Wage Inequality
"A higher minimum wage is an important way to address wage inequality, as the erosion of the minimum wage is the main reason for the increase in inequality between low-and middle-wage workers (in particular the 50/10 wage gap, that between the median and the 10th percentile earner). This is particularly true among women, the group for whom the wage gap in the bottom half grew the most."
"A higher minimum wage is an important way to address wage inequality, as the erosion of the minimum wage is the main reason for the increase in inequality between low-and middle-wage workers (in particular the 50/10 wage gap, that between the median and the 10th percentile earner). This is particularly true among women, the group for whom the wage gap in the bottom half grew the most."
The President Needs to Talk About How We Got Economic Inequality | Common Dreams
The President Needs to Talk About How We Got Economic Inequality | Common Dreams
"Grotesque inequality kills the American Dream because the American Dream is not the fantasy that we can all be rich, or the fact that a few of us will be rich. It’s about what happens for the vast majority of people who work hard, who contribute to the life of our country, who will never get rich but who deserve lives of economic security and dignity, who should get their share of the vast wealth they produce. Our economy used to do just that, and now it doesn’t, but it can again if we choose to make it so.”
"Grotesque inequality kills the American Dream because the American Dream is not the fantasy that we can all be rich, or the fact that a few of us will be rich. It’s about what happens for the vast majority of people who work hard, who contribute to the life of our country, who will never get rich but who deserve lives of economic security and dignity, who should get their share of the vast wealth they produce. Our economy used to do just that, and now it doesn’t, but it can again if we choose to make it so.”
President Obama has the power to begin to fix what has gone wrong in America, even if not to solve it entirely within the next three years. Everything he's said suggests he very much wants to try. He should begin by telling the truth about what the 1% have taken from the 99%. That much is certainly within his power to do."
Wendy Davis’ Daughters Strike Back At Ugly Republican Smears With Open Letters
www.politicususa.com/2014/01/28/wendy-davis-daughters-write-open-letters-refute-ugly-republican-smears.html
"The fact that these two young women felt that they needed to write these letters should shame conservatives into apologizing to Wendy Davis and her family. Frankly, it’s no one’s business how much time she spent with her children, as it does not relate to policy or her ability to govern, and we have never attacked male candidates over going to school while having children at home.
In fact, Republicans happily run (Sanford), support, and admire men who abandon their families all together – for real – and then have the nerve to attack Wendy Davis over going to university in order to better herself."
"The fact that these two young women felt that they needed to write these letters should shame conservatives into apologizing to Wendy Davis and her family. Frankly, it’s no one’s business how much time she spent with her children, as it does not relate to policy or her ability to govern, and we have never attacked male candidates over going to school while having children at home.
In fact, Republicans happily run (Sanford), support, and admire men who abandon their families all together – for real – and then have the nerve to attack Wendy Davis over going to university in order to better herself."
Alabama Looked The Other Way As Prison Staff Habitually Raped Women, Demanded Sexual Favors, DOJ Finds
www.thinkprogress.org/justice/2014/01/28/3211551/horrifying-sex-crimes-alabama-womens-prison/
"For the past two decades, female inmates in Alabama’s Julia Tutwiler Prison for Women have been subjected to atrocious acts of sexual abuse – and the Alabama Department of Corrections (ADOC) did nothing about it."
"For the past two decades, female inmates in Alabama’s Julia Tutwiler Prison for Women have been subjected to atrocious acts of sexual abuse – and the Alabama Department of Corrections (ADOC) did nothing about it."
This Is The 7th Time A GOP Chairman Has Tried To Reach Out To Minorities
www.thinkprogress.org/politics/2014/01/28/3212731/gop-minority-outreach-working/
"On Friday, Republican National Committee Chairman Reince Priebus proudly told his party’s annual winter meeting that their efforts to “engage with voters of all backgrounds” are working. But despite his words of inclusion — and that of several of his predecessors — the party’s continued opposition to voting rights, protecting women’s reproductive health, comprehensive immigration reform, and LGBT equality has rendered these efforts largely fruitless."
"On Friday, Republican National Committee Chairman Reince Priebus proudly told his party’s annual winter meeting that their efforts to “engage with voters of all backgrounds” are working. But despite his words of inclusion — and that of several of his predecessors — the party’s continued opposition to voting rights, protecting women’s reproductive health, comprehensive immigration reform, and LGBT equality has rendered these efforts largely fruitless."
Charts: Unemployment Benefits' Big Bang for the Buck
www.motherjones.com/politics/2014/01/unemployment-benefits-food-stamps-economic-impact
"Beyond helping Americans in need, economists say that programs like unemployment insurance and food stamps generate high returns on investment, especially during recessions. According to data from Moody's Analytics, every dollar spent on a temporary increase in food stamps contributes another $1.67 to the economy. A buck of extended unemployment kicks in $1.49. Compare that with the impact of a corporate tax cut—32 cents on the dollar."
"Beyond helping Americans in need, economists say that programs like unemployment insurance and food stamps generate high returns on investment, especially during recessions. According to data from Moody's Analytics, every dollar spent on a temporary increase in food stamps contributes another $1.67 to the economy. A buck of extended unemployment kicks in $1.49. Compare that with the impact of a corporate tax cut—32 cents on the dollar."
6 Ways Extreme Income Inequality Is Making Your Life Worse
www.thinkprogress.org/economy/2014/01/28/3201741/income-inequality/
"From 1979 to 2007, the top 1 percent of families experienced a 278 percent increase in their real after-tax income, while families in the middle 60 percent saw an increase of less than 40 percent. During this period, many blue collar jobs become automated by advances in technology, American workers started competing against cheaper overseas labor, and the number of workers represented by unions dropped from 20 percent in 1983 to 11 percent today. As the earnings of lower and middle income Americans stalled, however, CEOs — particularly in the financial industry — saw astronomical economic benefits and, thanks to tax changes in the early 2000s, began paying some of the lowest tax rates in the country’s history."
"From 1979 to 2007, the top 1 percent of families experienced a 278 percent increase in their real after-tax income, while families in the middle 60 percent saw an increase of less than 40 percent. During this period, many blue collar jobs become automated by advances in technology, American workers started competing against cheaper overseas labor, and the number of workers represented by unions dropped from 20 percent in 1983 to 11 percent today. As the earnings of lower and middle income Americans stalled, however, CEOs — particularly in the financial industry — saw astronomical economic benefits and, thanks to tax changes in the early 2000s, began paying some of the lowest tax rates in the country’s history."
Greg Abbott is making it harder for women to vote
www.wendydavistexas.com/landing/w131230vra/?subsource=CK-WD-VR-A03-FB-FBLP.D-FKW-NA-ML103-MA-40w-LPA.A03
Greg Abbott is making it harder for women to vote. Sign Wendy’s petition to demand reform.
Greg Abbott is making it harder for women to vote. Sign Wendy’s petition to demand reform.
Pete Seeger (1919-2014): Peace Activist and Folk Legend Has Died | Common Dreams
Pete Seeger (1919-2014): Peace Activist and Folk Legend Has Died | Common Dreams
"Peace activist, environmentalist, songwriter, and folk legend Pete Seeger died on Monday. He was 94."
"Peace activist, environmentalist, songwriter, and folk legend Pete Seeger died on Monday. He was 94."
Pete Seeger Dies at Age of 94; Obama Remembers His Commitment to Worker and Civil Rights
www.politicususa.com/2014/01/28/president-obama-honors-pete-seegers-commitment-worker-civil-rights.html
"Legendary American folk singer Pete Seeger passed away Monday at the age of 94. Known for songs like “Turn! Turn! Turn! To Everything There Is a Season” and “If I Had a Hammer (The Hammer Song)”, the singer used his music to promote his political and social views, including civil rights, worker rights, and disarmament."
"Legendary American folk singer Pete Seeger passed away Monday at the age of 94. Known for songs like “Turn! Turn! Turn! To Everything There Is a Season” and “If I Had a Hammer (The Hammer Song)”, the singer used his music to promote his political and social views, including civil rights, worker rights, and disarmament."
Fox's Ominous "Stand With Wendy" Theory Disproved With One Image
www.mediamatters.org/blog/2014/01/28/foxs-ominous-stand-with-wendy-theory-disproved/197781
"Fox News host Greta Van Susteren suggested that "Stand With Wendy" -- a campaign slogan affiliated with state senator Wendy Davis' (D-TX) gubernatorial campaign in Texas -- was "code" language being used to ridicule her disabled opponent, Greg Abbott (R-TX). Van Susteren all but ignored the origins of the slogan, which was popularized after Davis' now-famous filibuster in the Texas legislature weeks before her opponent entered the race."
"Fox News host Greta Van Susteren suggested that "Stand With Wendy" -- a campaign slogan affiliated with state senator Wendy Davis' (D-TX) gubernatorial campaign in Texas -- was "code" language being used to ridicule her disabled opponent, Greg Abbott (R-TX). Van Susteren all but ignored the origins of the slogan, which was popularized after Davis' now-famous filibuster in the Texas legislature weeks before her opponent entered the race."
The Right-Wing Gender War Marches On
www.mediamatters.org/blog/2014/01/28/the-right-wing-gender-war-marches-on/197784
"Forty-four weeks ago, in the wake of its lopsided loss to President Obama, Republican Party leaders unveiled a blueprint for expanding the GOP's base and opening up more doors to electoral success by directly appealing to, among others, women. And 44 weeks later the branding plan has flopped, with a new Pew Research poll revealing the party is widely still seen as "more extreme in its position" compared to the Democratic Party. (The GOP's also seen as far less interested in everyday people.)"
"Forty-four weeks ago, in the wake of its lopsided loss to President Obama, Republican Party leaders unveiled a blueprint for expanding the GOP's base and opening up more doors to electoral success by directly appealing to, among others, women. And 44 weeks later the branding plan has flopped, with a new Pew Research poll revealing the party is widely still seen as "more extreme in its position" compared to the Democratic Party. (The GOP's also seen as far less interested in everyday people.)"
Five Important Sex Lessons For GOP Lawmakers
www.alternet.org/tea-party-and-right/five-important-sex-lessons-gop-lawmakers
"Huckabee is hardly the first lawmaker to make an illogical comment about reproductive health that seems to belie the way that women’s reproductive systems actually work. Gaffes of this nature have become a serious problem for the GOP party, particularly as it attempts to attract more female voters.
Republicans have held some training sessions to help teach lawmakers how to better talk to women, but the issue may have deeper roots than a lack of PR savvy. Some lawmakers simply need to go back to health class. Here are five important lessons about reproductive health that GOP politicians should commit to memory"
"Huckabee is hardly the first lawmaker to make an illogical comment about reproductive health that seems to belie the way that women’s reproductive systems actually work. Gaffes of this nature have become a serious problem for the GOP party, particularly as it attempts to attract more female voters.
Republicans have held some training sessions to help teach lawmakers how to better talk to women, but the issue may have deeper roots than a lack of PR savvy. Some lawmakers simply need to go back to health class. Here are five important lessons about reproductive health that GOP politicians should commit to memory"
Meet 330 Lawmakers Who Made 2013 "A Terrible Year for Women's Health"
www.motherjones.com/politics/2014/01/state-legislators-sponsored-abortion-restriction-2014
"In all, lawmakers in 22 states enacted 70 new provisions that curbed reproductive rights—that's more new abortion restrictions than there were in any year but 2011. Earlier this month, the Guttmacher Institute, a think tank that supports abortion rights, reported that more new restrictions have passed in the last three years than in the entire previous decade."
"In all, lawmakers in 22 states enacted 70 new provisions that curbed reproductive rights—that's more new abortion restrictions than there were in any year but 2011. Earlier this month, the Guttmacher Institute, a think tank that supports abortion rights, reported that more new restrictions have passed in the last three years than in the entire previous decade."
Mike Huckabee supported government-mandated birth control coverage until Obama became President
www.freakoutnation.com/2014/01/26/mike-huckabee-supported-government-mandated-birth-control-coverage-until-obama-became-president/
"Funny story: in 2005, Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee signed a law mandating Arkansas insurance plans provide contraception coverage, including church-affiliated organizations such as hospitals and universities."
"Funny story: in 2005, Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee signed a law mandating Arkansas insurance plans provide contraception coverage, including church-affiliated organizations such as hospitals and universities."
Monday, January 27, 2014
Obama Promises To Veto Republican Bill That Forces The IRS To Investigate Rape Victims
www.politicususa.com/2014/01/27/white-house-republicans-treat-women-slaves.html
"Of course, this bill isn’t really about taxpayer funds. It’s about controlling women and creating an environment of fear and intimidation around women’s health."
"Of course, this bill isn’t really about taxpayer funds. It’s about controlling women and creating an environment of fear and intimidation around women’s health."
Fox News analyst tells Tea Party group he can lead a military coup against Obama
www.rawstory.com/rs/2014/01/27/fox-news-analyst-tells-tea-party-group-he-can-lead-a-military-coup-against-obama/
"A retired Army general and Fox News analyst told a Tea Party group that he would lead a military coup against the U.S. government, if only reluctantly." The face of a traitor.
"A retired Army general and Fox News analyst told a Tea Party group that he would lead a military coup against the U.S. government, if only reluctantly." The face of a traitor.
GOP In Shambles As Poll Finds Americans View Democrats as More Ethical and Honest
www.politicususa.com/2014/01/27/gop-shambles-poll-finds-americans-view-democrats-ethical-honest.html
"Republicans have been fundamentally dishonest with the American people. After they took control of the House in 2010, John Boehner said the Republican agenda was all about jobs. He and his caucus then spent years on dozens of attempts to repeal the ACA. Boehner’s Republican House majority hasn’t proposed or passed a single jobs bill. However, they have voted to cut food stamps, energy assistance, aid for veterans, food for senior citizens, unemployment benefits, and almost every other aid program for the poor and middle class that you can think of.
While cutting programs for the poor and middle class, Republicans have aggressively pushed an agenda of tax cuts and benefits for corporations and the wealthy. This survey reveals that the American people are paying attention to what Republicans have been up to. Republicans can’t disguise their plans to cut taxes for the wealthy as a jobs bill, and expect no one to notice what they are really up to.
Republicans have shown repeatedly during the Obama presidency that they don’t care about the problems of average Americans."
"Republicans have been fundamentally dishonest with the American people. After they took control of the House in 2010, John Boehner said the Republican agenda was all about jobs. He and his caucus then spent years on dozens of attempts to repeal the ACA. Boehner’s Republican House majority hasn’t proposed or passed a single jobs bill. However, they have voted to cut food stamps, energy assistance, aid for veterans, food for senior citizens, unemployment benefits, and almost every other aid program for the poor and middle class that you can think of.
While cutting programs for the poor and middle class, Republicans have aggressively pushed an agenda of tax cuts and benefits for corporations and the wealthy. This survey reveals that the American people are paying attention to what Republicans have been up to. Republicans can’t disguise their plans to cut taxes for the wealthy as a jobs bill, and expect no one to notice what they are really up to.
Republicans have shown repeatedly during the Obama presidency that they don’t care about the problems of average Americans."
Explaining the Debt Ceiling for Dummies – The Republican Edition
www.forwardprogressives.com/explaining-the-debt-ceiling-for-dummies-the-republican-edition/
"This is something every single Republican in Congress knows. So when they sit there and repeat their worn out propaganda (which is exactly what it is – blatant propaganda) about raising the debt ceiling is tantamount to “giving the president a blank check,” they’re flat-out lying.
The debt ceiling is simply a procedural vote that allows the United States government to pay money that it’s already agreed to pay.
Also known as money we’ve already approved to spend in various spending bills passed by Congress. Again, it has nothing to do with new spending."
"This is something every single Republican in Congress knows. So when they sit there and repeat their worn out propaganda (which is exactly what it is – blatant propaganda) about raising the debt ceiling is tantamount to “giving the president a blank check,” they’re flat-out lying.
The debt ceiling is simply a procedural vote that allows the United States government to pay money that it’s already agreed to pay.
Also known as money we’ve already approved to spend in various spending bills passed by Congress. Again, it has nothing to do with new spending."
Mitch McConnell and Ted Cruz Openly Threaten The Country With Economic Catastrophe
www.politicususa.com/2014/01/27/mitch-mcconnell-ted-cruz-openly-threaten-country-economic-catastrophe.html
"Republicans like John Boehner who owns stock in seven Canadian tar sand companies have, like Mitch McConnell, lied and claimed building the pipeline will be a jobs bonanza for Americans, but with only less than 2,000 temporary jobs, and 15 permanent jobs, constructing the pipeline is nothing more than a gift to the Koch brothers and oil export industry as well as an environmental catastrophe waiting to happen on American soil."
"Republicans like John Boehner who owns stock in seven Canadian tar sand companies have, like Mitch McConnell, lied and claimed building the pipeline will be a jobs bonanza for Americans, but with only less than 2,000 temporary jobs, and 15 permanent jobs, constructing the pipeline is nothing more than a gift to the Koch brothers and oil export industry as well as an environmental catastrophe waiting to happen on American soil."
Missouri Woman Delivers Smackdown To Anti-Abortion Legislators
Missouri Woman Delivers Smackdown To Anti-Abortion Legislators
"Women are tired of condescending old men telling them what they think. Now they're saying so."
"Women are tired of condescending old men telling them what they think. Now they're saying so."
Here’s The Latest Clueless Thing Rand Paul Has To Say About Women (VIDEO)
www.addictinginfo.org/2014/01/27/rand-paul-war-on-women-won/
"Rand Paul is simply the latest white man who doesn’t get women, minorities, gay people, or poor people. If it is not important to him or his family then it is not important. Period. He doesn’t get it. Even worse, he simply doesn’t care to."
"Rand Paul is simply the latest white man who doesn’t get women, minorities, gay people, or poor people. If it is not important to him or his family then it is not important. Period. He doesn’t get it. Even worse, he simply doesn’t care to."
Tea Party troll Todd Kincannon goes on misogynistic anti-Wendy Davis Twitter rant
Tea Party troll Todd Kincannon goes on misogynistic anti-Wendy Davis Twitter rant
"A former GOP operative provides an ugly view into what motivates some of the right's hatred for the Texas Democrat"
"A former GOP operative provides an ugly view into what motivates some of the right's hatred for the Texas Democrat"
A Desperate Rand Paul Uses Monica Lewinsky To Attack Hillary Clinton
www.politicususa.com/2014/01/26/desperate-rand-paul-monica-lewinsky-attack-hillary-clinton.html
"This is an act of desperation on the part of Sen. Paul and any other Republicans who embrace this line of attack. Republicans used the very same attacks on the Clintons in the 1990s. If this is the best argument against Hillary Clinton that Rand Paul has to offer, Republicans are in big trouble. Attacking Bill Clinton’s moral character didn’t work for Republicans in the 1990s, and it is going to be even less effective in 2016.
If Rand Paul is the Chris Christie alternative, Republicans might be staring down the barrel of another big presidential election defeat, because going retro 90s on the Clintons isn’t going to work."
"This is an act of desperation on the part of Sen. Paul and any other Republicans who embrace this line of attack. Republicans used the very same attacks on the Clintons in the 1990s. If this is the best argument against Hillary Clinton that Rand Paul has to offer, Republicans are in big trouble. Attacking Bill Clinton’s moral character didn’t work for Republicans in the 1990s, and it is going to be even less effective in 2016.
If Rand Paul is the Chris Christie alternative, Republicans might be staring down the barrel of another big presidential election defeat, because going retro 90s on the Clintons isn’t going to work."
Poll Shows 80 Percent Of Americans Don’t Trust Republicans To Run The Nation
www.addictinginfo.org/2014/01/27/80-no-trust-republicans/
"According to the latest Washington Post/ABC News poll, a stunning 80 percent majority do not trust Republicans to govern the nation. Worse, the GOP can’t even get 20 percent of Americans to trust them. That number stands at just 19 percent. We’re talking about a major political party that desperately hopes to take over the Senate and keep control of the House in 2014 and find a viable candidate to capture the White House in 2016. These poll numbers should totally embarrass Republicans."
"According to the latest Washington Post/ABC News poll, a stunning 80 percent majority do not trust Republicans to govern the nation. Worse, the GOP can’t even get 20 percent of Americans to trust them. That number stands at just 19 percent. We’re talking about a major political party that desperately hopes to take over the Senate and keep control of the House in 2014 and find a viable candidate to capture the White House in 2016. These poll numbers should totally embarrass Republicans."
GOP’s hot new craze: Why everyone wants to give a State of the Union response this year
GOP’s hot new craze: Why everyone wants to give a State of the Union response this year
"Last year, the official Republican response to the president’s State of the Union address was delivered by a famously parched Sen. Marco Rubio. Then there was another response, from Sen. Rand Paul, representing the Tea Party. This year, Rep. Cathy McMorris Rogers will deliver the official Republican response, followed by a Tea Party response from Sen. Mike Lee. And then Rand Paul will also deliver a response, representing… himself."
"Last year, the official Republican response to the president’s State of the Union address was delivered by a famously parched Sen. Marco Rubio. Then there was another response, from Sen. Rand Paul, representing the Tea Party. This year, Rep. Cathy McMorris Rogers will deliver the official Republican response, followed by a Tea Party response from Sen. Mike Lee. And then Rand Paul will also deliver a response, representing… himself."
Dim and divisive Rand Paul self-destructs, again
Dim and divisive Rand Paul self-destructs, again
"Kentucky Sen. Rand Paul is what you get when traditional and corrosive American nepotism meets the 21st century GOP echo chamber: a pampered princeling whose dumb ideas have never been challenged by reality."
"Kentucky Sen. Rand Paul is what you get when traditional and corrosive American nepotism meets the 21st century GOP echo chamber: a pampered princeling whose dumb ideas have never been challenged by reality."
The RNC Admits It: The More Voters Hear From Republicans, The Worse It Is For The GOP
www.forwardprogressives.com/the-rnc-admits-it-the-more-voters-hear-from-republicans-the-worse-it-is-for-the-gop/
"Think about that for a moment. Many Republicans really felt that the more exposure their party got on national television, the worse it was for the GOP. Basically meaning that the more the American people got to know Republicans and their candidates, the more Americans didn’t like them.
The reality was that it wasn’t just the candidates that voters didn’t like, it was the entire conservative ideology. During the primaries Republicans have to pander to their base of voters, so true conservative ideology was on full display. And the more the American people heard them talk, the more they realized how ridiculous their policies would be."
"Think about that for a moment. Many Republicans really felt that the more exposure their party got on national television, the worse it was for the GOP. Basically meaning that the more the American people got to know Republicans and their candidates, the more Americans didn’t like them.
The reality was that it wasn’t just the candidates that voters didn’t like, it was the entire conservative ideology. During the primaries Republicans have to pander to their base of voters, so true conservative ideology was on full display. And the more the American people heard them talk, the more they realized how ridiculous their policies would be."
It's Not Just Dave Agema: 5 RNC Committee Members Who Have Pushed Anti-Gay Bigotry | Right Wing Watch
It's Not Just Dave Agema: 5 RNC Committee Members Who Have Pushed Anti-Gay Bigotry | Right Wing Watch
"With GOP leaders calling for Michigan Republican National Committeeman Dave Agema to resign over his latest anti-gay outbursts, we were surprised that Agema’s views would really be that shocking in a party that, as former GOProud leader Jimmy LaSalvia puts it, has a wide “tolerance for bigotry.”
Republicans like RNC chairman Reince Priebus may think by denouncing Agema’s rhetoric they are putting distance between the GOP and extremists. But at the end of the day, the party’s platform embraces the extreme anti-LGBT agenda that Agema represents, opposing not just marriage equality but also civil unions, fair employment practices, non-discrimination policies, hate crimes laws and LGBT-inclusive foreign policy."
"With GOP leaders calling for Michigan Republican National Committeeman Dave Agema to resign over his latest anti-gay outbursts, we were surprised that Agema’s views would really be that shocking in a party that, as former GOProud leader Jimmy LaSalvia puts it, has a wide “tolerance for bigotry.”
Republicans like RNC chairman Reince Priebus may think by denouncing Agema’s rhetoric they are putting distance between the GOP and extremists. But at the end of the day, the party’s platform embraces the extreme anti-LGBT agenda that Agema represents, opposing not just marriage equality but also civil unions, fair employment practices, non-discrimination policies, hate crimes laws and LGBT-inclusive foreign policy."
Joe Scarborough: Hillary can't argue about GOP's transvaginal probes after Bill's affair
Joe Scarborough: Hillary can't argue about GOP's transvaginal probes after Bill's affair
"Conservative MSNBC host Joe Scarborough on Monday suggested that possible Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton's ability to attack Republicans for anti-women laws -- like proposed invasive transvaginal probe abortion laws -- had been compromised because her husband had an affair in the 1990s."
"Conservative MSNBC host Joe Scarborough on Monday suggested that possible Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton's ability to attack Republicans for anti-women laws -- like proposed invasive transvaginal probe abortion laws -- had been compromised because her husband had an affair in the 1990s."
Sunday, January 26, 2014
Mitch McConnell Threatens To Destroy The Economy Unless Obama Approves Keystone XL
www.politicususa.com/2014/01/26/mitch-mcconnell-threatens-destroy-economy-obama-approves-keystone-xl.html
"McConnell said that he is going to use the debt ceiling to get the Keystone XL pipeline approved. While Republicans keep touting the project as a jobs provider and a path towards energy independence, it will not do either of those things. Instead, it is something the Koch Brothers want passed so they can rake in billions and billions of dollars. In essence, it is yet another social welfare program for billionaires that Republicans are trying to sell to the American public as necessary for the economy and the country’s energy needs."
"McConnell said that he is going to use the debt ceiling to get the Keystone XL pipeline approved. While Republicans keep touting the project as a jobs provider and a path towards energy independence, it will not do either of those things. Instead, it is something the Koch Brothers want passed so they can rake in billions and billions of dollars. In essence, it is yet another social welfare program for billionaires that Republicans are trying to sell to the American public as necessary for the economy and the country’s energy needs."
PERRspectives: For Conservatives, Everything is the Holocaust
PERRspectives: For Conservatives, Everything is the Holocaust
"Here's a friendly suggestion for the Holocaust peddlers of the GOP and its allies in the gilded class and the religious right. The next time you feel compelled to compare, say, Head Start, a carbon tax, food stamps or just about any other Democratic policy to Nazi Germany's extermination of six million Jews, just repeat this helpful phrase silently to yourself.
Never again.
That done, conservatives can get back to what they do best: comparing everything to slavery."
"Here's a friendly suggestion for the Holocaust peddlers of the GOP and its allies in the gilded class and the religious right. The next time you feel compelled to compare, say, Head Start, a carbon tax, food stamps or just about any other Democratic policy to Nazi Germany's extermination of six million Jews, just repeat this helpful phrase silently to yourself.
Never again.
That done, conservatives can get back to what they do best: comparing everything to slavery."
Will the GOP Get Away With Its Economic Sabotage?
Will the GOP Get Away With Its Economic Sabotage?
"Republicans smell an election opportunity – but only if they can keep the economy down, jobs down and wages down."
"Republicans smell an election opportunity – but only if they can keep the economy down, jobs down and wages down."
Van Susteren and Roberts Dismiss Obstructionism: 'Deal with it'
Van Susteren and Roberts Dismiss Obstructionism: 'Deal with it'
"See that long blue bar under Obama's name? That's the number of times cloture has been sought from a filibuster. The last five presidents put together had to do it 393 times. With three years still left in his second term, Obama's agenda has already dealt with it 307 times. If the Republicans continue apace, that number will be in the 490s by the end of his term, significantly more than the last five presidents together."
"See that long blue bar under Obama's name? That's the number of times cloture has been sought from a filibuster. The last five presidents put together had to do it 393 times. With three years still left in his second term, Obama's agenda has already dealt with it 307 times. If the Republicans continue apace, that number will be in the 490s by the end of his term, significantly more than the last five presidents together."
Renewable Energy Is ‘Stalinist’ Mandate, Says Ohio Legislator
www.thinkprogress.org/climate/2014/01/24/3197321/renewable-energy-stalinism/
"Senator Kris Jordan (R-Ostrander), the sponsor of the bill, and Seitz are both members of the American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC), an organization funded by fossil fuel companies, corporate interests, and the ultra-conservative Koch brothers that pushes controversial far-right policies at the local level, including Stand Your Ground laws, attacks on minimum wage laws, and school privatization.
ALEC spent much of 2013 trying to repeal state clean energy laws like Ohio’s, and failed miserably. But they’re still at it. Seitz sponsored a bill that would have only weakened Ohio’s renewable requirement in 2013, but it didn’t get enough support to move forward. So he’s shifted support to full repeal."
"Senator Kris Jordan (R-Ostrander), the sponsor of the bill, and Seitz are both members of the American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC), an organization funded by fossil fuel companies, corporate interests, and the ultra-conservative Koch brothers that pushes controversial far-right policies at the local level, including Stand Your Ground laws, attacks on minimum wage laws, and school privatization.
ALEC spent much of 2013 trying to repeal state clean energy laws like Ohio’s, and failed miserably. But they’re still at it. Seitz sponsored a bill that would have only weakened Ohio’s renewable requirement in 2013, but it didn’t get enough support to move forward. So he’s shifted support to full repeal."
NASA Graphic Shows Six Terrifying Decades Of Global Warming (VIDEO)
www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/01/25/nasa-global-warming-graphic-six-decades_n_4666447.html
"Despite the recent polar vortex and the efforts of some to suggest otherwise, global warming is happening. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and NASA have both said that the 10 warmest years in history happened since 2000. 97 percent of working climate scientists believe climate change is due to the actions of humans. And the risk to the planet is even greater than some scientists thought."
"Despite the recent polar vortex and the efforts of some to suggest otherwise, global warming is happening. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and NASA have both said that the 10 warmest years in history happened since 2000. 97 percent of working climate scientists believe climate change is due to the actions of humans. And the risk to the planet is even greater than some scientists thought."
While Lying About the ACA Ted Cruz Demands An Apology From President Obama
www.politicususa.com/2014/01/26/lying-aca-ted-cruz-demands-apology-president-obama.html
"Ted Cruz is lying about the ACA, and demanding that President Obama apologize for things that have not happened. Cruz has invented his own Obamacare reality. He is still trotting out the same lies that he touting during the government shutdown. Sen. Cruz has managed to rewrite history to absolve from any blame from the government shutdown that he caused, and he expects President Obama to apologize for Cruz’s imaginary Obamacare disaster.
Sen. Cruz is one who owes America an apology for orchestrating a government shutdown that cost taxpayers $24 billion. President Obama has nothing to apologize for. In fact, he deserves praise for opening the door for tens of millions of Americans to get access to affordable health care.
It is the height of arrogance for Ted Cruz to demand anything from President Obama. Cruz is entitled to nothing, but the contempt and scorn that he has already earned from millions of Americans.
Just remember, as Ted Cruz enjoys his Goldman Sachs provided health insurance, he wants to take yours away."
"Ted Cruz is lying about the ACA, and demanding that President Obama apologize for things that have not happened. Cruz has invented his own Obamacare reality. He is still trotting out the same lies that he touting during the government shutdown. Sen. Cruz has managed to rewrite history to absolve from any blame from the government shutdown that he caused, and he expects President Obama to apologize for Cruz’s imaginary Obamacare disaster.
Sen. Cruz is one who owes America an apology for orchestrating a government shutdown that cost taxpayers $24 billion. President Obama has nothing to apologize for. In fact, he deserves praise for opening the door for tens of millions of Americans to get access to affordable health care.
It is the height of arrogance for Ted Cruz to demand anything from President Obama. Cruz is entitled to nothing, but the contempt and scorn that he has already earned from millions of Americans.
Just remember, as Ted Cruz enjoys his Goldman Sachs provided health insurance, he wants to take yours away."
First Things First: Until We Fix Our Democracy Problem, It's Hard to Fix Any Problem
First Things First: Until We Fix Our Democracy Problem, It's Hard to Fix Any Problem
"In the four years since the Supreme Court’s infamous Citizens United v. FEC ruling, two things have become abundantly clear."
"In the four years since the Supreme Court’s infamous Citizens United v. FEC ruling, two things have become abundantly clear."
10 Most Absurd Right-Wing Lunacies This Week: Pity the 1% Edition
www.alternet.org/tea-party-and-right/10-most-absurd-right-wing-lunacies-week-pity-1-edition
"So much right-wing craziness this week, it's difficult to know where to start."
"So much right-wing craziness this week, it's difficult to know where to start."
Sexist Attacks On Wendy Davis In The Media Reach A New Low
www.addictinginfo.org/2014/01/25/sexist-attacks-wendy-davis/
"The right-wing media has done some pretty awful things over the last decade. The lack of truth and accountability in reporting has grown steadily worse, since the country first gutted the FCC, back in the days of Ronald Reagan. The constant half truth reporting on non-existent scandals, combined with the shockingly biased coverage of just about everything done in the White House was, up until recently, the defining low to which the US media had sunk. But the recent sexist attacks on Wendy Davis have, yet again, lowered the bar to new depths of vulgarity."
"The right-wing media has done some pretty awful things over the last decade. The lack of truth and accountability in reporting has grown steadily worse, since the country first gutted the FCC, back in the days of Ronald Reagan. The constant half truth reporting on non-existent scandals, combined with the shockingly biased coverage of just about everything done in the White House was, up until recently, the defining low to which the US media had sunk. But the recent sexist attacks on Wendy Davis have, yet again, lowered the bar to new depths of vulgarity."
Saturday, January 25, 2014
Tea Party Republican spews vile, sexist Twitter attacks at Wendy Davis
www.rawstory.com/rs/2014/01/25/tea-party-republican-spews-vile-sexist-twitter-attacks-at-wendy-davis/
"Former head of the South Carolina Republican Party, Tea Party activist Todd Kincannon has unleashed a vile parade of hateful, sexist insults aimed at Texas Democratic state Sen. Wendy Davis."
"Former head of the South Carolina Republican Party, Tea Party activist Todd Kincannon has unleashed a vile parade of hateful, sexist insults aimed at Texas Democratic state Sen. Wendy Davis."
Republicans Are In Total Retreat As Obamacare Enrollment Skyrockets Past 3 Million
www.politicususa.com/2014/01/25/republicans-total-retreat-obamacare-enrollment-skyrockets-3-million.html
"The mainstream media isn’t reporting this, but the ACA is turning into a huge victory for President Obama.
Before leaving on their current vacation, Republicans signaled their defeat by voting to fund the healthcare law for 2014. Now Republicans like John Boehner and John McCain are completely dropping the repeal and only repeal ruse, and suggesting that the GOP needs to come up with its own healthcare alternative.
It’s too late for alternative plans. The ACA is the law of the land. Millions of people have signed up. This isn’t a policy discussion anymore. Republicans can’t escape the fact that any alternative that they suggest will involve taking health insurance away from millions of people.
The time for Republicans to suggest policy alternatives was in 2009 and 2010, but they chose to demonize the ACA instead of engaging in a serious discussion about healthcare. They put all of their eggs in the ACA failure basket, and now that the program is a success, they suddenly want to talk about healthcare.
The ACA was the original Republican healthcare plan. Anything that they come up with now will be smoke and mirrors that won’t cover the uninsured."
"The mainstream media isn’t reporting this, but the ACA is turning into a huge victory for President Obama.
Before leaving on their current vacation, Republicans signaled their defeat by voting to fund the healthcare law for 2014. Now Republicans like John Boehner and John McCain are completely dropping the repeal and only repeal ruse, and suggesting that the GOP needs to come up with its own healthcare alternative.
It’s too late for alternative plans. The ACA is the law of the land. Millions of people have signed up. This isn’t a policy discussion anymore. Republicans can’t escape the fact that any alternative that they suggest will involve taking health insurance away from millions of people.
The time for Republicans to suggest policy alternatives was in 2009 and 2010, but they chose to demonize the ACA instead of engaging in a serious discussion about healthcare. They put all of their eggs in the ACA failure basket, and now that the program is a success, they suddenly want to talk about healthcare.
The ACA was the original Republican healthcare plan. Anything that they come up with now will be smoke and mirrors that won’t cover the uninsured."
Iowa Republican Party Posts Graphic Mocking Racism
www.thinkprogress.org/justice/2014/01/25/3205601/iowa-gop-racism/
"But the GOP continues to be its own worst enemy. The Republican National Committee also congratulated Rosa Parks last month for ending racism in America, while prominent Republicans have insisted the justice system is colorblind. Yet another example is Rep. Steve King (R-IA), who has compared immigrants to violent criminals and drug mules to make the GOP’s case for holding up long-awaited immigration reform."
"But the GOP continues to be its own worst enemy. The Republican National Committee also congratulated Rosa Parks last month for ending racism in America, while prominent Republicans have insisted the justice system is colorblind. Yet another example is Rep. Steve King (R-IA), who has compared immigrants to violent criminals and drug mules to make the GOP’s case for holding up long-awaited immigration reform."
41 Years After Roe v. Wade, Here Are a Few Reminders of What Abortion Is Not
41 Years After Roe v. Wade, Here Are a Few Reminders of What Abortion Is Not
"In many states, politicians have been all too willing to help. They have proposed expensive, medically unnecessary clinic and doctor regulations, onerous waiting periods and pre-procedure lectures and ultrasounds, and unconstitutional bans limiting the time limit in which a pregnant person can have an abortion, despite the Roe ruling.
Some of these bills have been introduced on their own, by those who have been upfront about their desire to restrict the right to choose. Others, not so much. They issue has been tucked into must pass bills, bundled into an omnibus or slid into unrelated legislation."
"In many states, politicians have been all too willing to help. They have proposed expensive, medically unnecessary clinic and doctor regulations, onerous waiting periods and pre-procedure lectures and ultrasounds, and unconstitutional bans limiting the time limit in which a pregnant person can have an abortion, despite the Roe ruling.
Some of these bills have been introduced on their own, by those who have been upfront about their desire to restrict the right to choose. Others, not so much. They issue has been tucked into must pass bills, bundled into an omnibus or slid into unrelated legislation."
Maher: It's Not Masculinity Conservatives Love, It's Bullying
Maher: It's Not Masculinity Conservatives Love, It's Bullying
"Maher went on to lay into the rest of them from Brit Hume, to Rush Limbaugh, to Glenn Beck and their ridiculous narrative that “they're the ones who will keep you safe” because they're not afraid to send your kids off to die in their wars of choice."
"Maher went on to lay into the rest of them from Brit Hume, to Rush Limbaugh, to Glenn Beck and their ridiculous narrative that “they're the ones who will keep you safe” because they're not afraid to send your kids off to die in their wars of choice."
PERRspectives: Huckabee: Wives Must "Graciously Submit" to Husbands
PERRspectives: Huckabee: Wives Must "Graciously Submit" to Husbands
"This was not the best of weeks for once and possible future GOP presidential candidate Mike Huckabee. First, the Fox News host doubled-down on his "Uncle Sugar" charge that the Affordable Care Act's conception coverage mandate showed that Democrats believe women "cannot control their libido or reproductive system without the help of the government," only to be reminded that as Arkansas governor he signed even broader legislation in 2005. Making matters worse, in his new book Huckabee's fellow Baptist and GOP Congressman Steve Pearce (R-NM) proclaimed that wives should "voluntarily submit" to the husbands. As it turns out, that's pretty much the same language Governor Huckabee used in a 1998 full page ad in USA Today."
"This was not the best of weeks for once and possible future GOP presidential candidate Mike Huckabee. First, the Fox News host doubled-down on his "Uncle Sugar" charge that the Affordable Care Act's conception coverage mandate showed that Democrats believe women "cannot control their libido or reproductive system without the help of the government," only to be reminded that as Arkansas governor he signed even broader legislation in 2005. Making matters worse, in his new book Huckabee's fellow Baptist and GOP Congressman Steve Pearce (R-NM) proclaimed that wives should "voluntarily submit" to the husbands. As it turns out, that's pretty much the same language Governor Huckabee used in a 1998 full page ad in USA Today."
Open Letter To Mike Huckabee About Birth Control & My Libido
www.samuel-warde.com/2014/01/open-letter-mike-huckabee-woman-birth-control-libido/
"Your attempt to shame women by suggesting our libidos are out of control is foolish and detrimental to the success of your party. Congratulations on sinking to a new low with term “Uncle Sugar.” Rush Limbaugh is surely proud of you and jealous that he didn’t think of it first."
"Your attempt to shame women by suggesting our libidos are out of control is foolish and detrimental to the success of your party. Congratulations on sinking to a new low with term “Uncle Sugar.” Rush Limbaugh is surely proud of you and jealous that he didn’t think of it first."
GOP Wife-Beater Running Against Susan Collins
GOP Wife-Beater Running Against Susan Collins
"Another exception to social norms for Republicans: It's perfectly acceptable to beat your wife, be convicted, and still be eligible to run for office."
"Another exception to social norms for Republicans: It's perfectly acceptable to beat your wife, be convicted, and still be eligible to run for office."
5 Right-Wing Myths About Raising the Minimum Wage, Debunked
www.alternet.org/economy/5-right-wing-myths-about-raising-minimum-wage-debunked
"Corporations like Walmart and McDonalds like the current situation of really low wages at the bottom because it puts more into the pockets of those at the top. So the corporate/conservative machine is grinding out propaganda against raising the minimum wage. Here is a look at six of the most common propaganda points they’re trying to trick us with."
"Corporations like Walmart and McDonalds like the current situation of really low wages at the bottom because it puts more into the pockets of those at the top. So the corporate/conservative machine is grinding out propaganda against raising the minimum wage. Here is a look at six of the most common propaganda points they’re trying to trick us with."
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