http://www.motherjones.com/politics/2015/06/marco-rubio-koch-network-lobbying
"In Washington, money spent on hiring lobbyists often goes hand-in-hand with money spent on candidates, and according to a new report, many Koch network donors are playing the influence-peddling game."
Saturday, June 20, 2015
One Simple Stat Puts Into Perspective Just How Bad Income Inequality Has Become
One Simple Stat Puts Into Perspective Just How Bad Income Inequality Has Become
"For Democrats and progressives, it’s about the rich becoming richer at the expense of everyone else. It’s about tax cuts that disproportionately favor the wealthy while everyone else picks up the tab. It’s about massive deficits caused by wars and bailouts that some within our government (mostly Republicans) now want the poor and middle class to pay for. For Republicans, it’s the newest talking point they like to throw around considering there’s really nothing else they can say that’s negative about the economy. For years Republicans claimed that Democrats using the phrase “income inequality” was some sort of class warfare – now they can’t seem to shut up about it. Though their “solution” to improve income inequality is more of the same policies that created the income inequality in the first place: Tax cuts for the rich, deregulating big business. It would almost be funny if they weren’t actually being serious."
"For Democrats and progressives, it’s about the rich becoming richer at the expense of everyone else. It’s about tax cuts that disproportionately favor the wealthy while everyone else picks up the tab. It’s about massive deficits caused by wars and bailouts that some within our government (mostly Republicans) now want the poor and middle class to pay for. For Republicans, it’s the newest talking point they like to throw around considering there’s really nothing else they can say that’s negative about the economy. For years Republicans claimed that Democrats using the phrase “income inequality” was some sort of class warfare – now they can’t seem to shut up about it. Though their “solution” to improve income inequality is more of the same policies that created the income inequality in the first place: Tax cuts for the rich, deregulating big business. It would almost be funny if they weren’t actually being serious."
The world spends 10 million dollars a minute to subsidize fossil fuels
http://www.dailykos.com/story/2015/06/16/1393362/-The-world-spends-10-million-dollars-a-minute-to-subsidize-fossil-fuels
"10 million dollars a minute that's 5.3 trillion dollars, more than the entire health spending of all the world's governments!
The picture is becoming clear. The reason fossil fuel extractors have been able to rule the world for the last century is because they are getting away with murder, literally. There are no consequences for the destruction they have caused to the health of the planet and to the health of our species."
"10 million dollars a minute that's 5.3 trillion dollars, more than the entire health spending of all the world's governments!
The picture is becoming clear. The reason fossil fuel extractors have been able to rule the world for the last century is because they are getting away with murder, literally. There are no consequences for the destruction they have caused to the health of the planet and to the health of our species."
Secretive Donors Gave U.S. Climate Denial Groups $125 Million Over Three Years | Alternet
Secretive Donors Gave U.S. Climate Denial Groups $125 Million Over Three Years | Alternet
"Organizations funded through the secretive donors operations are also working to roll back measures promoting wind and solar power and block planning for future sea-level rise in state capitals."
"Organizations funded through the secretive donors operations are also working to roll back measures promoting wind and solar power and block planning for future sea-level rise in state capitals."
Science: If Your State Government Is Pro-Environment, You’ll Have Cleaner Air
http://thinkprogress.org/climate/2015/06/16/3670127/state-environmentalism-emisisons/
"A state legislature’s strong environmental voting record can translate into real results for states, according to a new study.
The study, published this week in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, looked at greenhouse gas emissions data for all 50 states going back to 1990. Researchers then compared that emissions data to a range of other factors, including the environmental record of state legislators — determined by the League of Conservation Voters scorecard system — employment rate, and population. The researchers, both from Michigan State University, found that there was a correlation between the voting records of legislators and a state’s greenhouse gas emissions."
"A state legislature’s strong environmental voting record can translate into real results for states, according to a new study.
The study, published this week in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, looked at greenhouse gas emissions data for all 50 states going back to 1990. Researchers then compared that emissions data to a range of other factors, including the environmental record of state legislators — determined by the League of Conservation Voters scorecard system — employment rate, and population. The researchers, both from Michigan State University, found that there was a correlation between the voting records of legislators and a state’s greenhouse gas emissions."
Environmental Movement Is Achieving Cleaner Air in Key States | Alternet
Environmental Movement Is Achieving Cleaner Air in Key States | Alternet
"States with strong green voices perform better on cutting emissions whereas those with climate skeptic views fare poorly."
"States with strong green voices perform better on cutting emissions whereas those with climate skeptic views fare poorly."
Watch: Bernie Sanders DESTROYS Republican Climate Change Deniers In 2 Minutes
http://www.occupydemocrats.com/watch-bernie-sanders-destroys-republican-climate-change-deniers-in-2-minutes/
"Sanders then compares the artificial debate surrounding climate change research to the campaign funded by tobacco companies to convince America that smoking wasn’t harmful, which is a very striking way to look at it. The fossil fuel magnates who have the most to lose from carbon emission reduction have already bought themselves the Republican Congress, and they’re using the GOP as a mouthpiece to propagate a false narrative about global warming and its existence."
"Sanders then compares the artificial debate surrounding climate change research to the campaign funded by tobacco companies to convince America that smoking wasn’t harmful, which is a very striking way to look at it. The fossil fuel magnates who have the most to lose from carbon emission reduction have already bought themselves the Republican Congress, and they’re using the GOP as a mouthpiece to propagate a false narrative about global warming and its existence."
Pope Francis: Humans Are Turning the Earth Into an "Immense Pile of Filth"
http://www.motherjones.com/environment/2015/06/pope-encyclical-climate-change-inequality
"A very solid scientific consensus indicates that we are presently witnessing a disturbing warming of the climatic system."
"A very solid scientific consensus indicates that we are presently witnessing a disturbing warming of the climatic system."
How Scott Walker Dismantled Wisconsin's Environmental Legacy
http://www.scientificamerican.com/article/how-scott-walker-dismantled-wisconsin-s-environmental-legacy/
"As governor of Wisconsin, the likely Republican presidential nomination-seeker consistently dismissed science and sided with polluters"
"As governor of Wisconsin, the likely Republican presidential nomination-seeker consistently dismissed science and sided with polluters"
Mitch McConnell And The War On The Environment
http://samuel-warde.com/2015/06/mitch-mcconnell-war-environment/
"Instead of protecting the citizens of his own state and those residing in other states, it is obvious from the get-go that McConnell and the Republican Party as a whole are more intent on protecting corporate interests."
"Instead of protecting the citizens of his own state and those residing in other states, it is obvious from the get-go that McConnell and the Republican Party as a whole are more intent on protecting corporate interests."
Friday, June 19, 2015
NASA: The Earth is Running Out of Water | Alternet
NASA: The Earth is Running Out of Water | Alternet
"More than half of Earth’s 37 largest aquifers are being depleted due to population and climate stresses."
"More than half of Earth’s 37 largest aquifers are being depleted due to population and climate stresses."
NOAA: Hottest May, Hottest Spring, Hottest Year-To-Date On Record By Far
http://thinkprogress.org/climate/2015/06/18/3671271/noaa-hottest-may-spring-record/
"NOAA’s latest monthly report on global temperatures confirms that we are headed toward a record-smashing year."
"NOAA’s latest monthly report on global temperatures confirms that we are headed toward a record-smashing year."
5 Incredible Breakthroughs in Pot Science That Mainstream Media Is Finally Paying Attention To | Alternet
5 Incredible Breakthroughs in Pot Science That Mainstream Media Is Finally Paying Attention To | Alternet
"The recent shift in public opinion about marijuana has propelled a historic heave against the research blockade."
"The recent shift in public opinion about marijuana has propelled a historic heave against the research blockade."
How Pope Francis just destroyed the GOP’s religious con artists
How Pope Francis just destroyed the GOP’s religious con artists
"the GOP is more interested in exploiting religion to oppress, restrict and demonize. This really what’s freaking them out. And after Thursday, the rage will be thick and it’ll set new records for ugliness."
"the GOP is more interested in exploiting religion to oppress, restrict and demonize. This really what’s freaking them out. And after Thursday, the rage will be thick and it’ll set new records for ugliness."
Pope Francis Lights Up Twitter Today With Climate Change Truth Bombs
Pope Francis Lights Up Twitter Today With Climate Change Truth Bombs
"For the last several hours, he's been tweeting key points from his encyclical to his 20+ million Twitter followers."
"For the last several hours, he's been tweeting key points from his encyclical to his 20+ million Twitter followers."
Fox News’ Greg Gutfeld Freaks Out Because Pope Francis is Actually Acting Like a Christian (Video)
Fox News’ Greg Gutfeld Freaks Out Because Pope Francis is Actually Acting Like a Christian (Video)
"Since the accession of Pope Francis to the head of the Catholic Church, Republicans haven’t been too happy. That’s ironic considering that not only is Pope Francis arguably the most popular pope in modern history, but he’s the most “Christ-like” pope – possibly ever. He’s based a large part of his time in power on helping the poor, preaching acceptance and even supporting the idea that humans need to take care of the planet that God gave them. Naturally, Republicans have been upset by pretty much all of this."
"Since the accession of Pope Francis to the head of the Catholic Church, Republicans haven’t been too happy. That’s ironic considering that not only is Pope Francis arguably the most popular pope in modern history, but he’s the most “Christ-like” pope – possibly ever. He’s based a large part of his time in power on helping the poor, preaching acceptance and even supporting the idea that humans need to take care of the planet that God gave them. Naturally, Republicans have been upset by pretty much all of this."
Coal industry provides Congressional Republicans with some handy anti-pope talking points
Coal industry provides Congressional Republicans with some handy anti-pope talking points
"Coal lobbyists aren’t the only ones throwing shade at the pope: in the New York Times, Michael McKenna, “a Republican energy lobbyist and political consultant who described himself as a conservative Catholic,” reassured himself that “this guy is not in sync with the American Catholic Church.” Yet, as reporter Coral Davenport was quick to point out, 86 percent of American Catholics say they view the pope favorably — and their opinions about climate change are broadly in line with the rest of the country’s."
"Coal lobbyists aren’t the only ones throwing shade at the pope: in the New York Times, Michael McKenna, “a Republican energy lobbyist and political consultant who described himself as a conservative Catholic,” reassured himself that “this guy is not in sync with the American Catholic Church.” Yet, as reporter Coral Davenport was quick to point out, 86 percent of American Catholics say they view the pope favorably — and their opinions about climate change are broadly in line with the rest of the country’s."
One Big Fact Media Are Missing On Jeb Bush, The Pope, And Climate Change
http://mediamatters.org/blog/2015/06/17/one-big-fact-media-are-missing-on-jeb-bush-the/204033
"the media should be covering Bush's remarks in the context of a closed-door meeting he held with coal industry CEOs earlier this month -- an important piece of information that could shed some light on who Bush is actually getting his "economic policy" from when it comes to climate change."
"the media should be covering Bush's remarks in the context of a closed-door meeting he held with coal industry CEOs earlier this month -- an important piece of information that could shed some light on who Bush is actually getting his "economic policy" from when it comes to climate change."
Jeb Bush Reaches For Latino Votes While Promoting Policies That Drive Them Away
http://thinkprogress.org/election/2015/06/15/3669688/jeb-bush-reaches-latino-votes-promoting-policies-drive-away/
"Yet on many key issues — from climate change to health care to the minimum wage — Bush’s policies are in direct contradiction to what a majority of Latino voters want."
"Yet on many key issues — from climate change to health care to the minimum wage — Bush’s policies are in direct contradiction to what a majority of Latino voters want."
Jeb!: 'My brother tried on Social Security'
http://www.dailykos.com/story/2015/06/16/1393782/-Jeb-My-brother-tried-on-Social-nbsp-Security
"Just to refresh everyone's memories on W's efforts on Social Security: In his 2005 State of the Union Address, Bush laid out his plan for diverting retirement savings from Social Security payroll taxes into private investments. Which truly did go over like a mashed potato sandwich with the public and members of Congress (except for Rep. Paul Ryan, who loved it so much he sponsored the legislation to do it). That would, of course, eventually bankrupt the program as less and less payroll tax money came in. And that was and always has been the ultimate goal of Republicans.
As American Bridge details Jeb! was there every step of the way with his brother. Now he's running to finish the job."
"Just to refresh everyone's memories on W's efforts on Social Security: In his 2005 State of the Union Address, Bush laid out his plan for diverting retirement savings from Social Security payroll taxes into private investments. Which truly did go over like a mashed potato sandwich with the public and members of Congress (except for Rep. Paul Ryan, who loved it so much he sponsored the legislation to do it). That would, of course, eventually bankrupt the program as less and less payroll tax money came in. And that was and always has been the ultimate goal of Republicans.
As American Bridge details Jeb! was there every step of the way with his brother. Now he's running to finish the job."
While Jeb Claims He’s His ‘Own Man’, His Actions Prove He’s George’s Clone
http://www.occupydemocrats.com/while-jeb-claims-hes-his-own-man-his-actions-prove-hes-georges-clone/
"Not only has he publicly stated that his brother is his most trusted foreign policy adviser, he has hired a team to help compensate for lack of experience- and nineteen out of twenty-one of them worked for his father or brother. The words “I’m my own man” never felt so hollow."
"Not only has he publicly stated that his brother is his most trusted foreign policy adviser, he has hired a team to help compensate for lack of experience- and nineteen out of twenty-one of them worked for his father or brother. The words “I’m my own man” never felt so hollow."
How to Steal From US Taxpayers While Blaming the Poor
How to Steal From US Taxpayers While Blaming the Poor
"About two-thirds of low-wage workers are employed by large corporations with over 100 employees. The very worst offender is probably Walmart, which pays its estimated 1.4 million U.S. employees so little that the average Walmart worker depends on about $4,400 per year in taxpayer assistance, for food stamps and other safety net programs.
As Walmart was depending on us, the taxpayers, to pay $4,400 a year to each of its employees, the company was spending the equivalent of $5,000 per U.S. employeefor price-boosting stock buybacks."
"About two-thirds of low-wage workers are employed by large corporations with over 100 employees. The very worst offender is probably Walmart, which pays its estimated 1.4 million U.S. employees so little that the average Walmart worker depends on about $4,400 per year in taxpayer assistance, for food stamps and other safety net programs.
As Walmart was depending on us, the taxpayers, to pay $4,400 a year to each of its employees, the company was spending the equivalent of $5,000 per U.S. employeefor price-boosting stock buybacks."
Supreme Court shuts down Scott Walker: Today’s ultrasound decision is a big defeat for anti-choice warriors
Supreme Court shuts down Scott Walker: Today’s ultrasound decision is a big defeat for anti-choice warriors
"The GOP contender thinks forced ultrasounds are "cool," but the justices just dealt the movement a big setback"
"The GOP contender thinks forced ultrasounds are "cool," but the justices just dealt the movement a big setback"
What Mitt Romney’s Bizarre Weekend Retreat Reveals About the GOP Primary | Alternet
What Mitt Romney’s Bizarre Weekend Retreat Reveals About the GOP Primary | Alternet
"It’s amazing that these people feel no shame in publicly supplicating themselves for these Big Money donors like a bunch of dancers auditioning to become Dallas Cowboy Cheerleaders"
"It’s amazing that these people feel no shame in publicly supplicating themselves for these Big Money donors like a bunch of dancers auditioning to become Dallas Cowboy Cheerleaders"
Bobby Jindal’s dishonest scheme: Even fellow Republicans are embarrassed by this one
Bobby Jindal’s dishonest scheme: Even fellow Republicans are embarrassed by this one
"Jindal’s SAVE bill is a scam – and everyone in the state capitol knows it."
"Jindal’s SAVE bill is a scam – and everyone in the state capitol knows it."
Ted Cruz Confuses Religious Bigotry With Freedom, Says 2016 Will Be ‘Religious Liberty’ Election
http://www.addictinginfo.org/2015/06/18/ted-cruz-confuses-religious-bigotry-with-freedom-says-2016-will-be-religious-liberty/
"But, by all means, Ted, go ahead and make the 2016 election about religious bigotry. Because America has rejected hatred and prejudice. Your way of thinking is passing away, thank goodness. You’re a dinosaur. And not the fun kind. The sooner you sink into the oil puddle of obscurity, the better for this country."
"But, by all means, Ted, go ahead and make the 2016 election about religious bigotry. Because America has rejected hatred and prejudice. Your way of thinking is passing away, thank goodness. You’re a dinosaur. And not the fun kind. The sooner you sink into the oil puddle of obscurity, the better for this country."
UPDATED: Alabama cop fired after links to white supremacist group are revealed
UPDATED: Alabama cop fired after links to white supremacist group are revealed
"The LOS calls for southern states to secede and establish a Christian theocratic state run by “Anglo-Celtics.” Doggrell has been a member since 1995."
"The LOS calls for southern states to secede and establish a Christian theocratic state run by “Anglo-Celtics.” Doggrell has been a member since 1995."
Jeb Bush Joins Other GOPers in Downplaying Racism That Fueled the Charleston Attack
http://www.motherjones.com/politics/2015/06/jeb-bush-latest-gop-candidate-brush-aside-racial-motivations-charleston-shooting
"Before he opened fire in a historic black church in Charleston, killing nine people, Dylann Roof, the alleged shooter, was photographed wearing flags of former racist regimes in Africa that became white supremacist symbols. When he committed the murders, he reportedly told the victims, "I have to do it. You rape our women and you’re taking over our country and you have to go." And after he was arrested, he confessed to authorities that he committed the crime to start a "race war."
Yet when Jeb Bush addressed an audience of evangelicals on Friday morning, he became the latest Republican presidential candidate to say he had no idea whether racism motivated this horrific attack."
"Before he opened fire in a historic black church in Charleston, killing nine people, Dylann Roof, the alleged shooter, was photographed wearing flags of former racist regimes in Africa that became white supremacist symbols. When he committed the murders, he reportedly told the victims, "I have to do it. You rape our women and you’re taking over our country and you have to go." And after he was arrested, he confessed to authorities that he committed the crime to start a "race war."
Yet when Jeb Bush addressed an audience of evangelicals on Friday morning, he became the latest Republican presidential candidate to say he had no idea whether racism motivated this horrific attack."
Dylann Roof Bragged Last Week He Would 'Kill A Bunch Of People' And No One Spoke Up
Dylann Roof Bragged Last Week He Would 'Kill A Bunch Of People' And No One Spoke Up
"Roof had a license plate on his car of the "Confederate States of America" – not just the historical Confederacy but a group that believes it is being occupied the the U.S. government.
High school classmate John Mullins told the Daily Beast that Roof "had that kind of Southern pride, I guess some would say. Strong conservative beliefs"."
"Roof had a license plate on his car of the "Confederate States of America" – not just the historical Confederacy but a group that believes it is being occupied the the U.S. government.
High school classmate John Mullins told the Daily Beast that Roof "had that kind of Southern pride, I guess some would say. Strong conservative beliefs"."
The GOP’s staggering Charleston cowardice: Why are so many Republicans so scared of admitting the truth?
The GOP’s staggering Charleston cowardice: Why are so many Republicans so scared of admitting the truth?
"Throughout the last 24 hours the right has been doing the usual handwringing over the “politicization” of this mass murder as if it wasn’t inherently political. Dylann Roof politicized it when he stood up in that church, shot 9 people and told one woman that he was letting her live so that she could tell people why he did it: “You are raping our women and taking over the country.” One of the people he assassinated in cold blood was a prominent black politician. That is the terrorist act of a right wing extremist and the political statement of a white supremacist. He was following in a very long tradition of such terrorist acts and political statements."
"Throughout the last 24 hours the right has been doing the usual handwringing over the “politicization” of this mass murder as if it wasn’t inherently political. Dylann Roof politicized it when he stood up in that church, shot 9 people and told one woman that he was letting her live so that she could tell people why he did it: “You are raping our women and taking over the country.” One of the people he assassinated in cold blood was a prominent black politician. That is the terrorist act of a right wing extremist and the political statement of a white supremacist. He was following in a very long tradition of such terrorist acts and political statements."
Charleston Shooter Confesses: It Was Definitely Racism, Not Christian Persecution
http://www.addictinginfo.org/2015/06/19/charleston-shooter-confesses-it-was-definitely-racism-not-christian-persecution/
"Sorry, Fox News, Dylann Roof wasn’t at that church to persecute Christians."
"Sorry, Fox News, Dylann Roof wasn’t at that church to persecute Christians."
Always on the Wrong Side of History: A Look at Many of the Constitutional Rights Conservatives Have Opposed
Always on the Wrong Side of History: A Look at Many of the Constitutional Rights Conservatives Have Opposed
"But I must make one point very clear – when I say “conservatives,” I mean conservatives. Republicans haven’t always been conservatives. In fact, it wasn’t until the 1950′s and 60′s when the Republican party decided to embrace the South’s blatant racism, hoping to lure white voters to their side, that the GOP become the “party of Southern conservatives.” Because, as we all know, conservatives love to point out that Abraham Lincoln freed the slaves and he was a Republican. That’s true, but he wasn’t a conservative. It’s as if conservatives willfully ignore the fact that the states which fought with the South during the Civil War are also the states that opposed integration, voting rights and the Civil Rights Act – and now almost every single one of them is strongly Republican."
"But I must make one point very clear – when I say “conservatives,” I mean conservatives. Republicans haven’t always been conservatives. In fact, it wasn’t until the 1950′s and 60′s when the Republican party decided to embrace the South’s blatant racism, hoping to lure white voters to their side, that the GOP become the “party of Southern conservatives.” Because, as we all know, conservatives love to point out that Abraham Lincoln freed the slaves and he was a Republican. That’s true, but he wasn’t a conservative. It’s as if conservatives willfully ignore the fact that the states which fought with the South during the Civil War are also the states that opposed integration, voting rights and the Civil Rights Act – and now almost every single one of them is strongly Republican."
Thursday, June 18, 2015
How Right-Wing Media May Have Already Scared The GOP Away From 2016 Latino Outreach Efforts
http://mediamatters.org/blog/2015/06/18/how-right-wing-media-may-have-already-scared-th/204047
"Only one Republican presidential candidate reportedly made an appearance at the 32nd annual National Association of Latino Elected and Appointed Officials (NALEO) convention, despite Republican National Committee and several GOP presidential hopefuls committing to reach out to Hispanic Americans. The snub comes after years of right-wing media's demonizing Hispanics and urging the GOP to take extreme positions on immigration."
"Only one Republican presidential candidate reportedly made an appearance at the 32nd annual National Association of Latino Elected and Appointed Officials (NALEO) convention, despite Republican National Committee and several GOP presidential hopefuls committing to reach out to Hispanic Americans. The snub comes after years of right-wing media's demonizing Hispanics and urging the GOP to take extreme positions on immigration."
Charleston Church Shooting Strikes Close To Home For President Obama (VIDEO)
http://www.addictinginfo.org/2015/06/18/charleston-church-shooting-strikes-close-to-home-for-president-obama-video/
"Today marked the 14th time in just six and a half years that president Obama has addressed the nation on the heels of a mass shooting."
"Today marked the 14th time in just six and a half years that president Obama has addressed the nation on the heels of a mass shooting."
Alabama Cop’s White Supremacy Speech Caught On Camera (VIDEO)
http://www.addictinginfo.org/2015/06/18/josh-doggrell-white-supremacy-speech-caught-on-camera-video/
"During a League of the South convention, Doggrell took to the podium to express how good it was to be among people that “think like we do.” He also told members that he’s working on getting more people to come around to “our way of thinking.” He then went on to address the audience, made up of white, southern racists"
"During a League of the South convention, Doggrell took to the podium to express how good it was to be among people that “think like we do.” He also told members that he’s working on getting more people to come around to “our way of thinking.” He then went on to address the audience, made up of white, southern racists"
Why Conservatives Can't Stop Saying Insanely Dumb Things About Rape | Alternet
Why Conservatives Can't Stop Saying Insanely Dumb Things About Rape | Alternet
"While it’s never fun to hear pundits and politicians treat rape with a shrug of the shoulders, Scott Walker-style, we should all be ultimately grateful that Republicans just can’t leave this issue alone. Every time a conservative opens his mouth to talk about rape, he reminds the voters that the conservative ideology about sex and consent is radically opposed to where the rest of the country is headed. Better, after all, that we know where we stand than to elect them unwittingly and allow them to these backwards ideas into law."
"While it’s never fun to hear pundits and politicians treat rape with a shrug of the shoulders, Scott Walker-style, we should all be ultimately grateful that Republicans just can’t leave this issue alone. Every time a conservative opens his mouth to talk about rape, he reminds the voters that the conservative ideology about sex and consent is radically opposed to where the rest of the country is headed. Better, after all, that we know where we stand than to elect them unwittingly and allow them to these backwards ideas into law."
Charleston Suspect Dylann Roof's Idolization Of Rhodesia And South Africa Is Rooted In Right-Wing History | Alternet
Charleston Suspect Dylann Roof's Idolization Of Rhodesia And South Africa Is Rooted In Right-Wing History | Alternet
"But most of the American right today will never admit that this is the history it leaves behind: one of naked support for white supremacy and glamorizing of regimes and systems that systematically disenfranchised darker people."
"But most of the American right today will never admit that this is the history it leaves behind: one of naked support for white supremacy and glamorizing of regimes and systems that systematically disenfranchised darker people."
Focus On Islamic Extremism Leaves Radical Right Overlooked
http://thinkprogress.org/world/2015/06/18/3671603/focus-islamic-extremism-leaves-radical-right-overlooked/
"Similar incidents that have captured the nation’s eye and attracted this much media attention in recent history have concerned homegrown Islamic extremists. Meanwhile, relevant studies and polls have consistently shown that domestic attacks by right-wing radicals are a graver concern to law enforcement and have led to more deaths than the threat of “homegrown jihadists” in the dates following 9/11."
"Similar incidents that have captured the nation’s eye and attracted this much media attention in recent history have concerned homegrown Islamic extremists. Meanwhile, relevant studies and polls have consistently shown that domestic attacks by right-wing radicals are a graver concern to law enforcement and have led to more deaths than the threat of “homegrown jihadists” in the dates following 9/11."
Putting The Charleston Church Shooting In The Context Of History
http://thinkprogress.org/justice/2015/06/18/3671290/tragic-history-of-violence-against-churches/
"Last night, in a horrific act of hateful violence, a white gunman shot and killed at least nine people at the historically black Emanuel A.M.E. Church in Charleston, South Carolina. The incident, which is being investigated as a hate crime, immediately sparked outrage, with many wondering aloud how someone could commit such an act — especially in a church, were the victims were attending a Bible study.
But while Wednesday’s shooting is appalling, it’s not the first time Emanuel A.M.E. has endured violence. The historically progressive church, which was founded in 1791, was burned to the ground in 1822 by white supremacists for its connection to an attempted slave revolt.
In fact, the assault on prayerful worshippers in Charleston is part of a long, bloody history of houses of worship being attacked for their beliefs, their progressive activism, or simply for who they are. There are too many incidents to list all of them in a single post, but we’ve listed a few — both recent and historical — below."
"Last night, in a horrific act of hateful violence, a white gunman shot and killed at least nine people at the historically black Emanuel A.M.E. Church in Charleston, South Carolina. The incident, which is being investigated as a hate crime, immediately sparked outrage, with many wondering aloud how someone could commit such an act — especially in a church, were the victims were attending a Bible study.
But while Wednesday’s shooting is appalling, it’s not the first time Emanuel A.M.E. has endured violence. The historically progressive church, which was founded in 1791, was burned to the ground in 1822 by white supremacists for its connection to an attempted slave revolt.
In fact, the assault on prayerful worshippers in Charleston is part of a long, bloody history of houses of worship being attacked for their beliefs, their progressive activism, or simply for who they are. There are too many incidents to list all of them in a single post, but we’ve listed a few — both recent and historical — below."
From Fox News to Lindsey Graham: The racist murderer targeted 'Christians', not black Americans
http://www.dailykos.com/story/2015/06/18/1394450/-From-Fox-News-to-Lindsey-Graham-The-racist-murderer-targeted-Christians-not-black-Americans
"To go even farther, and claim that their murder was not even about them, it was about your group, and how their murders prove how your group has been victimized. At least have the withered decency to acknowledge that the openly racist murderer was a racist murderer—that the man who said he was there to kill black Americans was, indeed, there to kill his victims for being black Americans. Do not give bullsh*t statements about your sympathies for the community when you aren't willing to even name the "community" being targeted."
"To go even farther, and claim that their murder was not even about them, it was about your group, and how their murders prove how your group has been victimized. At least have the withered decency to acknowledge that the openly racist murderer was a racist murderer—that the man who said he was there to kill black Americans was, indeed, there to kill his victims for being black Americans. Do not give bullsh*t statements about your sympathies for the community when you aren't willing to even name the "community" being targeted."
An Outraged And Disgusted Bernie Sanders Urges His Supporters To Donate To Emanuel AME Church
http://www.politicususa.com/2015/06/18/outraged-disgusted-bernie-sanders-urges-supporters-donate-emanuel-ame-church.html
"Sanders also urged his supporters to donate to the Emanuel AME Church, which you can do here. Sen. Sanders has over 200,000 donors, so if every donor would give the church one dollar that would mean more than $200,000 to help them in their time of grief."
"Sanders also urged his supporters to donate to the Emanuel AME Church, which you can do here. Sen. Sanders has over 200,000 donors, so if every donor would give the church one dollar that would mean more than $200,000 to help them in their time of grief."
Corporate Media And The Dangerous Right-Wing Elephant In The Room
Corporate Media And The Dangerous Right-Wing Elephant In The Room
"All you media types need to grow up and start talking about the big, fat, racist, violent, right-wing elephant in the room. You have special protection under the Constitution for a reason: You're supposed to be the watchdogs of the Republic. Do your frickin' jobs for a change.
You provide no context for right-wing garbage. You rarely talk back, or call a lie a lie. You treat crazy people as if they're sane, and worthy of support.
No wonder no one respects you. Your idea of "courage" is criticizing somebody's hairdo on the red carpet."
"All you media types need to grow up and start talking about the big, fat, racist, violent, right-wing elephant in the room. You have special protection under the Constitution for a reason: You're supposed to be the watchdogs of the Republic. Do your frickin' jobs for a change.
You provide no context for right-wing garbage. You rarely talk back, or call a lie a lie. You treat crazy people as if they're sane, and worthy of support.
No wonder no one respects you. Your idea of "courage" is criticizing somebody's hairdo on the red carpet."
Conservatives Ignore Racism And Spin Church Shooting As A War On Christianity
http://www.politicususa.com/2015/06/18/conservatives-ignore-racism-spin-church-shooting-war-christianity.html
"Conservatives are so busy trying to deny racism exists, and so determined to cast themselves as victims of religious persecution that they are unable to confront the ugly truth even when it stares them in the face."
"Conservatives are so busy trying to deny racism exists, and so determined to cast themselves as victims of religious persecution that they are unable to confront the ugly truth even when it stares them in the face."
The New York Times Warned Us
The New York Times Warned Us
"In contrast, right-wing extremists averaged 337 attacks per year in the decade after 9/11, causing a total of 254 fatalities, according to a study by Arie Perliger, a professor at the United States Military Academy’s Combating Terrorism Center. The toll has increased since the study was released in 2012."
"In contrast, right-wing extremists averaged 337 attacks per year in the decade after 9/11, causing a total of 254 fatalities, according to a study by Arie Perliger, a professor at the United States Military Academy’s Combating Terrorism Center. The toll has increased since the study was released in 2012."
A Tax System that Targets Workers
A Tax System that Targets Workers
"Where’s all this leading? In Arizona, the legislature has just yet again taken a meat cleaver to the state higher education budget, cutting $100 million — on top of a nearly 50 percent cut higher ed suffered in the aftermath of the financial crash. In Kansas, with Governor Brownback aggressively eviscerating the state income tax, funding cutbacks are forcing some local school districts to shut their school years down early. Other localities across the nation — think Ferguson, Missouri, for instance — are making up for the funding that used to come from tax revenues by doubling down on traffic fines and other penalties that fall largely on the poor and lower middle class."
"Where’s all this leading? In Arizona, the legislature has just yet again taken a meat cleaver to the state higher education budget, cutting $100 million — on top of a nearly 50 percent cut higher ed suffered in the aftermath of the financial crash. In Kansas, with Governor Brownback aggressively eviscerating the state income tax, funding cutbacks are forcing some local school districts to shut their school years down early. Other localities across the nation — think Ferguson, Missouri, for instance — are making up for the funding that used to come from tax revenues by doubling down on traffic fines and other penalties that fall largely on the poor and lower middle class."
White House race has already sparked $1 million in negative ads
http://www.publicintegrity.org/2015/06/11/17470/white-house-race-has-already-sparked-1-million-negative-ads
"To date, nearly all of the negativity has been directed at Democratic Party frontrunner Hillary Clinton, who announced her candidacy in mid-April.
This month alone, Clinton has been attacked by the Republican National Committee and a host of other conservative groups, including the Stop Hillary PAC and the Citizens United Super PAC."
"To date, nearly all of the negativity has been directed at Democratic Party frontrunner Hillary Clinton, who announced her candidacy in mid-April.
This month alone, Clinton has been attacked by the Republican National Committee and a host of other conservative groups, including the Stop Hillary PAC and the Citizens United Super PAC."
BUSTED: Donald Trump caught hiring extras for campaign launch at $50 a head
BUSTED: Donald Trump caught hiring extras for campaign launch at $50 a head
"the company, Extra Mile Casting, contacted background actors via email on June 12 seeking people to appear at Trump’s campaign launch and cheer for him, offering a rate of $50 in cash for less than three hours of work."
"the company, Extra Mile Casting, contacted background actors via email on June 12 seeking people to appear at Trump’s campaign launch and cheer for him, offering a rate of $50 in cash for less than three hours of work."
Donald Trump is about to prove what a joke the Republican Primary is
Donald Trump is about to prove what a joke the Republican Primary is
"With Trump officially joining the race, he vindicates the increasingly obvious analysis that the Republican Party, at the presidential level at least, is little more than a shell corporation for opportunists and careerists who aren’t interested in governing or even winning. The addition of Trump is the would-be final brick in the effort to turn the GOP’s nominating process into a dysfunctional and menacingly ugly reality show competition in which the contestants each scramble to be the most flagrant panderer to the Tea Party base and, subsequently, augment their Q-scores within the lucrative conservative entertainment complex. That’s the real prize, and Trump, above all the others, is aiming to scoop up as much of that as he can. He won’t win the nomination, but that’s not his goal, nor is it the goal of most of the field."
"With Trump officially joining the race, he vindicates the increasingly obvious analysis that the Republican Party, at the presidential level at least, is little more than a shell corporation for opportunists and careerists who aren’t interested in governing or even winning. The addition of Trump is the would-be final brick in the effort to turn the GOP’s nominating process into a dysfunctional and menacingly ugly reality show competition in which the contestants each scramble to be the most flagrant panderer to the Tea Party base and, subsequently, augment their Q-scores within the lucrative conservative entertainment complex. That’s the real prize, and Trump, above all the others, is aiming to scoop up as much of that as he can. He won’t win the nomination, but that’s not his goal, nor is it the goal of most of the field."
Republicans’ raging civil war: GOP can’t decide how best to take away your healthcare
Republicans’ raging civil war: GOP can’t decide how best to take away your healthcare
"Republican politicians are in the awkward position of rooting for the subsidies to be killed but also seeking to avoid the blowback that would come from effectively kicking millions of people off their insurance."
"Republican politicians are in the awkward position of rooting for the subsidies to be killed but also seeking to avoid the blowback that would come from effectively kicking millions of people off their insurance."
Supreme Court ruling against Obamacare could cause economic shockwaves
http://www.dailykos.com/story/2015/06/18/1392245/-Supreme-Court-ruling-against-Obamacare-could-cause-economic-nbsp-shockwaves
"The hospital sector alone gained more than 100,000 jobs in the last year. The repercussions of what more than six million people losing health insurance will be big. Very big. The repercussions of what Republicans would do in response would be even worse."
"The hospital sector alone gained more than 100,000 jobs in the last year. The repercussions of what more than six million people losing health insurance will be big. Very big. The repercussions of what Republicans would do in response would be even worse."
The Manipulative Way Obamacare Opponents Made Their Lawsuit Look Legitimate
http://thinkprogress.org/justice/2015/06/17/3670566/manipulative-way-obamacare-opponents-made-lawsuit-look-legitimate/
"A leading Republican attorney made a surprising admission at a legal conference this weekend, revealing a key element of the strategy he and many of his fellow Republican lawyers have used in order to lend credibility to lawsuits challenging Obama administration policies. The law’s supporters have long suspected the lawyers who challenged the Affordable Care Act of intentionally maneuvering to bring the case before a very conservative judge who was inclined to support their agenda. One of those lawyers helped feed those suspicions last Friday."
"A leading Republican attorney made a surprising admission at a legal conference this weekend, revealing a key element of the strategy he and many of his fellow Republican lawyers have used in order to lend credibility to lawsuits challenging Obama administration policies. The law’s supporters have long suspected the lawyers who challenged the Affordable Care Act of intentionally maneuvering to bring the case before a very conservative judge who was inclined to support their agenda. One of those lawyers helped feed those suspicions last Friday."
Infographic: How Many Women Are Benefiting from the Affordable Care Act?
https://www.americanprogress.org/issues/women/news/2015/06/15/85389/infographic-how-many-women-are-benefiting-from-the-affordable-care-act/
"This infographic is a compilation of data from multiple sources to highlight how women are benefiting from the Affordable Care Act."
"This infographic is a compilation of data from multiple sources to highlight how women are benefiting from the Affordable Care Act."
Survey: Uninsured rate nears single digits for first time
http://www.dailykos.com/story/2015/06/16/1393695/-Survey-Uninsured-rate-nears-single-digits-for-first-time
"All the surveys conclude, though, that Obamacare has quickly succeeded in dramatically reducing the uninsured rate to the lowest levels on record. That's a well-documented success that only the most craven Republicans can deny, which they will because they are Republicans. But that denial is setting them up for some serious hurt if the Supreme Court rules their way in a few weeks and strips premium subsidies away from millions of people. Because, despite all their assurances that they've got a secret plan ready to go, it's obvious that their only plan right now is praying that the Supreme Court doesn't hand this mess to them. Because they got nothin'."
"All the surveys conclude, though, that Obamacare has quickly succeeded in dramatically reducing the uninsured rate to the lowest levels on record. That's a well-documented success that only the most craven Republicans can deny, which they will because they are Republicans. But that denial is setting them up for some serious hurt if the Supreme Court rules their way in a few weeks and strips premium subsidies away from millions of people. Because, despite all their assurances that they've got a secret plan ready to go, it's obvious that their only plan right now is praying that the Supreme Court doesn't hand this mess to them. Because they got nothin'."
Paul Ryan’s Disastrous Obamacare Interview Shows Republican Ideology is Officially Bankrupt
http://thedailybanter.com/2015/06/paul-ryans-disastrous-obamacare-interview-shows-republican-ideology-is-officially-bankrupt/
"Ryan’s inability to put forward literally anything that resembles a serious plan for the country’s health care system is indicative of a much wider problem the GOP will have to grapple with if it wants a shot in 2016. The truth is, the Republicans don’t actually have any serious ideas about anything. When your entire political philosophy has been built on the premise that free markets solve everything, you’ve pretty much absolved yourself of having to think about anything ever again. Sure, you can criticize those in power actually engaging in policy, pointing out problems, inconsistencies etc, etc, but you never have to offer anything up yourself. This works well in opposition, but tends to fall apart when applied – as did the country when free market militants took over from 2000-2008.
While impossible to predict the nature of the 2016 Presidential election, we can be sure it won’t be a battle of ideas. Because one side categorically doesn’t have any."
"Ryan’s inability to put forward literally anything that resembles a serious plan for the country’s health care system is indicative of a much wider problem the GOP will have to grapple with if it wants a shot in 2016. The truth is, the Republicans don’t actually have any serious ideas about anything. When your entire political philosophy has been built on the premise that free markets solve everything, you’ve pretty much absolved yourself of having to think about anything ever again. Sure, you can criticize those in power actually engaging in policy, pointing out problems, inconsistencies etc, etc, but you never have to offer anything up yourself. This works well in opposition, but tends to fall apart when applied – as did the country when free market militants took over from 2000-2008.
While impossible to predict the nature of the 2016 Presidential election, we can be sure it won’t be a battle of ideas. Because one side categorically doesn’t have any."
Watch: Chris Hayes Beats Down Ex-Senator's ACA Lies With Facts
Watch: Chris Hayes Beats Down Ex-Senator's ACA Lies With Facts
"Former Senator and Governor Judd Gregg was the guest. The topic was the Affordable Care Act, and Judd Gregg was serving up the usual nonsensical talking points in a particularly vitriolic way. From his claim that the ACA was a mess that helped no one, to his mockery of Hayes' claim that the ACA has gotten health coverage to millions, Gregg was mean, nasty, and rude.
Hayes was having none of it, and he used that good old fashioned fallback to debunk Gregg: Facts, with a touch of math for good measure.
Gregg scoffed at Hayes' use of the word "plummeted" to describe the uninsured rate in this country. But in fact, it has plummeted.
I was taken aback by the nastiness and disrespect Gregg showed Chris Hayes, but Hayes persisted in simply using facts and math to contradict his claims.
Watch it, because a transcript won't do it justice.
Aside to Chris Hayes: This is one that your colleagues (particularly Chuck Todd), should study to understand how to use facts to stop these talking points dead in their tracks. It's what we expect from our so-called liberal media, and you delivered.
The other thing you'll notice is that Gregg never answered the question."
"Former Senator and Governor Judd Gregg was the guest. The topic was the Affordable Care Act, and Judd Gregg was serving up the usual nonsensical talking points in a particularly vitriolic way. From his claim that the ACA was a mess that helped no one, to his mockery of Hayes' claim that the ACA has gotten health coverage to millions, Gregg was mean, nasty, and rude.
Hayes was having none of it, and he used that good old fashioned fallback to debunk Gregg: Facts, with a touch of math for good measure.
Gregg scoffed at Hayes' use of the word "plummeted" to describe the uninsured rate in this country. But in fact, it has plummeted.
I was taken aback by the nastiness and disrespect Gregg showed Chris Hayes, but Hayes persisted in simply using facts and math to contradict his claims.
Watch it, because a transcript won't do it justice.
Aside to Chris Hayes: This is one that your colleagues (particularly Chuck Todd), should study to understand how to use facts to stop these talking points dead in their tracks. It's what we expect from our so-called liberal media, and you delivered.
The other thing you'll notice is that Gregg never answered the question."
After Tax Cuts For Rich Wreck Budget, Kansas GOP Raises Taxes On Working Families
http://www.occupydemocrats.com/after-tax-cuts-for-rich-wreck-budget-kansas-gop-raises-taxes-on-working-families/
"Despite all of this, Brownback and Kansas Republicans are unrepentant for this gross mismanagement of state funding. The rest of the Republican Party clearly hasn’t learned anything from this experiment either, as legislators in Maine, Texas, Ohio, and Wisconsin are all pushing for their own versions of Brownback’s cuts. The trickle-down Reaganomics that are embedded in the Republican DNA have been proven to be a failure time and time again, but the conservative political machine refuses to stop funneling money to wealthy Americans while leaving everyday working families with empty pockets."
"Despite all of this, Brownback and Kansas Republicans are unrepentant for this gross mismanagement of state funding. The rest of the Republican Party clearly hasn’t learned anything from this experiment either, as legislators in Maine, Texas, Ohio, and Wisconsin are all pushing for their own versions of Brownback’s cuts. The trickle-down Reaganomics that are embedded in the Republican DNA have been proven to be a failure time and time again, but the conservative political machine refuses to stop funneling money to wealthy Americans while leaving everyday working families with empty pockets."
Wednesday, June 17, 2015
After Cutting Taxes On The Rich, Kansas Will Raise Taxes On The Poor To Pay For It
http://thinkprogress.org/economy/2015/06/16/3669801/kansas-sales-tax-hike-budget-deal/
"Kansas lawmakers concluded the longest legislative session in state history Friday night by approving a slate of regressive tax hikes that will balance the state’s budget by targeting low-income workers and their families."
"Kansas lawmakers concluded the longest legislative session in state history Friday night by approving a slate of regressive tax hikes that will balance the state’s budget by targeting low-income workers and their families."
Kansas Governor Sam Brownback Cries During Meeting About State Budget He Destroyed
http://www.addictinginfo.org/2015/06/13/kansas-governor-sam-brownback-cries-during-meeting-about-state-budget-he-destroyed/
"Kansas Governor Sam Brownback (R) “got emotional” during a private meeting with Kansas House Republicans because learning that there are no good options once you almost singlehandedly tank your state’s economy on a quixotic quest to prove conservative economic theories work is a very bitter pill to swallow."
"Kansas Governor Sam Brownback (R) “got emotional” during a private meeting with Kansas House Republicans because learning that there are no good options once you almost singlehandedly tank your state’s economy on a quixotic quest to prove conservative economic theories work is a very bitter pill to swallow."
Walker's Wisconsin, a "Laboratory for Oligarchs"
Walker's Wisconsin, a "Laboratory for Oligarchs"
"Study after study has documented that misnamed "right to work" laws are associated with significantly lower wages for workers and undermine their skills and safety training. Walker promises more of the same in Wisconsin as the repeal of prevailing wage is being considered in the state legislature."
"Study after study has documented that misnamed "right to work" laws are associated with significantly lower wages for workers and undermine their skills and safety training. Walker promises more of the same in Wisconsin as the repeal of prevailing wage is being considered in the state legislature."
After Denying Health Insurance To 800k Poor, Florida Lawmakers Want To Reward Themselves With Cheap Insurance
After Denying Health Insurance To 800k Poor, Florida Lawmakers Want To Reward Themselves With Cheap Insurance
"It’s no wonder Scott has done just about everything he can to disenfranchise voters who tend to vote for Democrats in the state to ensure Republicans keep as much power as possible. Though it still blows my mind the people of Florida elected this crook to a second term. It’s not just that he’s sleazy, he’s flat-out incompetent as well. But if you’ve ever wanted a clear-cut example of what politicians really think of poor people, look no further than this. It’s pathetic that after years of denying nearly 1 million poor Floridians access to health insurance, many state lawmakers would approve ridiculously low premiums for themselves."
"It’s no wonder Scott has done just about everything he can to disenfranchise voters who tend to vote for Democrats in the state to ensure Republicans keep as much power as possible. Though it still blows my mind the people of Florida elected this crook to a second term. It’s not just that he’s sleazy, he’s flat-out incompetent as well. But if you’ve ever wanted a clear-cut example of what politicians really think of poor people, look no further than this. It’s pathetic that after years of denying nearly 1 million poor Floridians access to health insurance, many state lawmakers would approve ridiculously low premiums for themselves."
Tuesday, June 16, 2015
Scott Walker's Shady Deals Win Him Campaign Cash From Billionaires
Scott Walker's Shady Deals Win Him Campaign Cash From Billionaires
"Mentioned in passing in the Times piece is Mark Block, the dirty political operative who built the Wisconsin chapter of the Koch brothers’ Americans for Prosperity (AFP), a group integral to Walker’s good fortune. If you want to take the measure of the Wisconsin governor as he prepares a run for the Republican presidential nomination, Block’s contribution to Walker’s stardom is instructive.
When Block was tasked with building a new AFP chapter in the Dairy State, he did so with the expressed goal of challenging the teachers unions. As I reported for AlterNet in 2011, Block told participants in a February 2010 Sheboygan Tea Party rally (video) that he wouldn't be satisfied until membership in the Wisconsin AFP chapter equaled the membership of the state teachers union, the Wisconsin Education Association Council.
During the time that Block was building one of AFP’s most important chapters, he was also implicated in a voter-caging scheme in Milwaukee that targeted university students and residents of African-American neighborhoods for ballot challenges during the 2010 election, the one that landed Scott Walker, then the executive of Milwaukee County, the governor’s mansion. Also implicated in the scheme was Reince Priebus, then chairman of the state Republican Party, who was rewarded with the chairmanship of the Republican National Committee.
At first, Block denied using the auspices of Americans for Prosperity to mail out the 500 letters to targeted voters that would be used as the means to challenge their votes. But when Tim Dake, leader of the Tea Party group Grandsons of Liberty that was involved in the activist part of the scheme, pointed the finger at Koch’s man in Wisconsin, Block relented and admitted his and AFP’s involvement."
"Mentioned in passing in the Times piece is Mark Block, the dirty political operative who built the Wisconsin chapter of the Koch brothers’ Americans for Prosperity (AFP), a group integral to Walker’s good fortune. If you want to take the measure of the Wisconsin governor as he prepares a run for the Republican presidential nomination, Block’s contribution to Walker’s stardom is instructive.
When Block was tasked with building a new AFP chapter in the Dairy State, he did so with the expressed goal of challenging the teachers unions. As I reported for AlterNet in 2011, Block told participants in a February 2010 Sheboygan Tea Party rally (video) that he wouldn't be satisfied until membership in the Wisconsin AFP chapter equaled the membership of the state teachers union, the Wisconsin Education Association Council.
During the time that Block was building one of AFP’s most important chapters, he was also implicated in a voter-caging scheme in Milwaukee that targeted university students and residents of African-American neighborhoods for ballot challenges during the 2010 election, the one that landed Scott Walker, then the executive of Milwaukee County, the governor’s mansion. Also implicated in the scheme was Reince Priebus, then chairman of the state Republican Party, who was rewarded with the chairmanship of the Republican National Committee.
At first, Block denied using the auspices of Americans for Prosperity to mail out the 500 letters to targeted voters that would be used as the means to challenge their votes. But when Tim Dake, leader of the Tea Party group Grandsons of Liberty that was involved in the activist part of the scheme, pointed the finger at Koch’s man in Wisconsin, Block relented and admitted his and AFP’s involvement."
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