PERRspectives: Bogus GOP 'Repeal' Bill Pockets Obamacare's Medicare Savings
"But the GOP's partial Obamacare repeal scam is even more sinister than it appears at first blush. After all, every GOP budget since 2010 has kept those same Medicare savings and used them to help fund a massive tax cut windfall for the wealthy. All of those Paul Ryan budgets also called for the voucherization of Medicare, de facto rationing that would dramatically shift health costs to future seniors"
Friday, January 8, 2016
California Could Sound the Loudest Call Yet for Overturning ‘Citizens United’
http://www.thenation.com/article/california-could-sound-the-loudest-call-yet-for-overturning-citizens-united/
"Unfortunately, the opportunity to express popular support for reform—and to prod Congress to act—was thwarted that year by defenders of the current system. Legal challenges posed by the conservative Howard Jarvis Taxpayer Association blocked the 2014 vote on the “Overturn Citizens United Act,” which was assigned proposition number 49."
"Unfortunately, the opportunity to express popular support for reform—and to prod Congress to act—was thwarted that year by defenders of the current system. Legal challenges posed by the conservative Howard Jarvis Taxpayer Association blocked the 2014 vote on the “Overturn Citizens United Act,” which was assigned proposition number 49."
As predicted, 2013 tax hikes on rich didn’t hurt jobs, economic growth
http://www.dailykos.com/stories/2016/1/2/1465561/-As-predicted-2013-tax-hikes-on-rich-didn-t-hurt-jobs-economic-growth
"Despite these assurances from CBO that raising income tax rates (from 36 to 39.6 percent) and capital gains and dividend tax rates (from 15 to 20 percent) would have no impact on the economy, congressional Republicans doubled-down on their "job creator" mythology."
"Despite these assurances from CBO that raising income tax rates (from 36 to 39.6 percent) and capital gains and dividend tax rates (from 15 to 20 percent) would have no impact on the economy, congressional Republicans doubled-down on their "job creator" mythology."
The GOP's Pro-Corporate Prescription
http://www.truth-out.org/opinion/item/34272-the-gop-s-pro-corporate-prescription
"The bottom line is that these $351 billion in corporate tax breaks over ten years will increase economic growth by about $105 billion. But the $118 billion in tax credits for working families will boost the economy by about $149 billion. In other words, working family tax credits will drive over 40 percent more economic growth at one-third the cost. The reason? Virtually every dollar returned to working people gets pumped back into the local economy. Families spend the money on basics, like rent, childcare, groceries, getting to work, and doctor's bills. Despite what big businesses tell us, reducing corporate taxes has little impact on investment or jobs. Corporations only decide to invest in a new place or hire more people when they believe they can sell more products - not when the taxes they pay on those sales go down. Instead of spending those tax breaks on new hires, corporations are more likely to hike CEO pay and pad their stock price and dividends. So why is the conventional wisdom so wrong? Because corporate front groups and lobbyists - some 1,400 of them in Congress - have spent years peddling the tall tale that corporations are job creators who need lower taxes to do what they do best. Like any myth, repeating it over and over again makes it more believable, even when it's not true. Clearly, working and middle-class families are the engines of the economy. When people have good jobs that can support their families, that provides more customers for businesses and boosts the economy. Remember this when the Republican candidate for president tells you that instead of raising the minimum wage or making childcare or college tuition more affordable, we should cut corporate taxes. It's not just a matter of what's fair - it's that fairness is the biggest driver of economic growth."
"The bottom line is that these $351 billion in corporate tax breaks over ten years will increase economic growth by about $105 billion. But the $118 billion in tax credits for working families will boost the economy by about $149 billion. In other words, working family tax credits will drive over 40 percent more economic growth at one-third the cost. The reason? Virtually every dollar returned to working people gets pumped back into the local economy. Families spend the money on basics, like rent, childcare, groceries, getting to work, and doctor's bills. Despite what big businesses tell us, reducing corporate taxes has little impact on investment or jobs. Corporations only decide to invest in a new place or hire more people when they believe they can sell more products - not when the taxes they pay on those sales go down. Instead of spending those tax breaks on new hires, corporations are more likely to hike CEO pay and pad their stock price and dividends. So why is the conventional wisdom so wrong? Because corporate front groups and lobbyists - some 1,400 of them in Congress - have spent years peddling the tall tale that corporations are job creators who need lower taxes to do what they do best. Like any myth, repeating it over and over again makes it more believable, even when it's not true. Clearly, working and middle-class families are the engines of the economy. When people have good jobs that can support their families, that provides more customers for businesses and boosts the economy. Remember this when the Republican candidate for president tells you that instead of raising the minimum wage or making childcare or college tuition more affordable, we should cut corporate taxes. It's not just a matter of what's fair - it's that fairness is the biggest driver of economic growth."
How President Obama Collapsed The GOP’s Fragile Coalition
http://thedailybanter.com/2016/01/how-president-obama-collapsed-the-gops-fragile-coalition/
"the most pronounced political realignment in modern times took place when the right wing Dixiecrats jumped to the GOP in reaction to the civil rights bill. People who placed a mix of religion and racism at the top of their political/social priority list found themselves caught up in a party that neither understood, nor accepted their beliefs so they moved on. Within a few years, the Southern Strategy was born and the party evolved into its current form. The anti federal government sentiment of the Southern confederates blended perfectly with the anti-regulation positions of the wealthy free market capitalists. The wealthy capitalist wing of the party, currently referred to as the “establishment,” realized that they could make a very comfortable living off of hollow promises and coded messages of racial resentment. Ronald Reagan, a true master of the game, gutted working class laws while spinning tall tales about welfare queens. The GOP establishment continuously delivered tax cuts for themselves and promises to return America to the good old days for the White working class. Barack Obama personified everything the GOP’s Neo-Confederate class feared. A country where people of color and progressives outnumbered native whites wasn’t yet a numerical reality but to them, that power dynamic had arrived early. This created a political problem that the conservative coalition couldn’t survive. The Southern conservative base demanded that their racial resentment towards the president and their religious social agenda be placed above all else. This meant closing the government and collapsing the economy if necessary. Unfortunately for them, the capitalists needed the wheels of government to continue so that they could maintain a political and economic system that kept them rich and happy. The tension between these positions created a toxic political environment for Washington conservatives."
"the most pronounced political realignment in modern times took place when the right wing Dixiecrats jumped to the GOP in reaction to the civil rights bill. People who placed a mix of religion and racism at the top of their political/social priority list found themselves caught up in a party that neither understood, nor accepted their beliefs so they moved on. Within a few years, the Southern Strategy was born and the party evolved into its current form. The anti federal government sentiment of the Southern confederates blended perfectly with the anti-regulation positions of the wealthy free market capitalists. The wealthy capitalist wing of the party, currently referred to as the “establishment,” realized that they could make a very comfortable living off of hollow promises and coded messages of racial resentment. Ronald Reagan, a true master of the game, gutted working class laws while spinning tall tales about welfare queens. The GOP establishment continuously delivered tax cuts for themselves and promises to return America to the good old days for the White working class. Barack Obama personified everything the GOP’s Neo-Confederate class feared. A country where people of color and progressives outnumbered native whites wasn’t yet a numerical reality but to them, that power dynamic had arrived early. This created a political problem that the conservative coalition couldn’t survive. The Southern conservative base demanded that their racial resentment towards the president and their religious social agenda be placed above all else. This meant closing the government and collapsing the economy if necessary. Unfortunately for them, the capitalists needed the wheels of government to continue so that they could maintain a political and economic system that kept them rich and happy. The tension between these positions created a toxic political environment for Washington conservatives."
Wisconsin Board Reboots, Holds Hearing on Changes to Open Records Law
http://www.truth-out.org/opinion/item/34289-wisconsin-board-reboots-holds-hearing-on-changes-to-open-records-law
"In 2015, the Walker administration worked overtime to figure out new ways to undermine the state's traditions of open government. First, you will recall, Governor Walker wanted to exempt the scandal-plagued Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) from the open records law in the budget. Then, the Governor used made-up legal definitions to deny CMD's request for records related to his changes to the University of Wisconsin mission statement and the Wisconsin Idea, prompting our ongoing lawsuit. Then the Governor and GOP leaders decided to gut the open records law completely with a sneak attack over the 4th of July weekend. Following public backlash, legislative leaders claimed they were abandoning the changes, but CMD uncovered that Speaker Robin Vos was secretly working on a bill to undermine the open records law. Now an obscure administration board charged with facilitating the retention of records quietly made significant changes to the open records law without required public notice, giving the Walker administration a new way to deny records requests about the use of public resources during his presidential run and taxpayer handouts to Walker donors. The Freedom of Information Council asked the Dane County District Attorney to prosecute the board for violating the open meetings law when it made the changes. The swift pushback on the changes has prompted the board to reconsider and the board chair announced a public hearing about the changes on Monday, January 11th. It's time for the Badger State to once again stand up for open records."
"In 2015, the Walker administration worked overtime to figure out new ways to undermine the state's traditions of open government. First, you will recall, Governor Walker wanted to exempt the scandal-plagued Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) from the open records law in the budget. Then, the Governor used made-up legal definitions to deny CMD's request for records related to his changes to the University of Wisconsin mission statement and the Wisconsin Idea, prompting our ongoing lawsuit. Then the Governor and GOP leaders decided to gut the open records law completely with a sneak attack over the 4th of July weekend. Following public backlash, legislative leaders claimed they were abandoning the changes, but CMD uncovered that Speaker Robin Vos was secretly working on a bill to undermine the open records law. Now an obscure administration board charged with facilitating the retention of records quietly made significant changes to the open records law without required public notice, giving the Walker administration a new way to deny records requests about the use of public resources during his presidential run and taxpayer handouts to Walker donors. The Freedom of Information Council asked the Dane County District Attorney to prosecute the board for violating the open meetings law when it made the changes. The swift pushback on the changes has prompted the board to reconsider and the board chair announced a public hearing about the changes on Monday, January 11th. It's time for the Badger State to once again stand up for open records."
All they want to do is screw over the president: Ryan, McConnell confirm they have no real agenda in ’16 besides blocking Obama
All they want to do is screw over the president: Ryan, McConnell confirm they have no real agenda in ’16 besides blocking Obama
"Like political arsonists, they’ve pursued no real positive agenda, choosing instead to undermine the president and stage symbolic protest votes to appease a disillusioned base. This is a big reason why something like 13 percent of the country approves of the job Congress is doing."
"Like political arsonists, they’ve pursued no real positive agenda, choosing instead to undermine the president and stage symbolic protest votes to appease a disillusioned base. This is a big reason why something like 13 percent of the country approves of the job Congress is doing."
House Republicans define insanity, vote to repeal Obamacare. Again.
http://www.dailykos.com/stories/2016/1/6/1466740/-House-Republicans-define-insanity-vote-to-repeal-Obamacare-Again
"The effort is a promise as to what Republicans would do in 2017 if they keep the Senate and win the White House: throw millions of people off of their health insurance plans."
"The effort is a promise as to what Republicans would do in 2017 if they keep the Senate and win the White House: throw millions of people off of their health insurance plans."
Heartless House Republicans Vote To Take Health Care Away From 22 Million Americans
http://www.politicususa.com/2016/01/06/house-dooms-gop-2016-voting-repeal-obamacare-defund-planned-parenthood.html
"The key takeaway from today’s vote is that Republicans are showing every American what they plan to do if they win the White House and keep control of Congress."
"The key takeaway from today’s vote is that Republicans are showing every American what they plan to do if they win the White House and keep control of Congress."
Big Strides for Health-Care Reform
http://www.truth-out.org/opinion/item/34292-big-strides-for-health-care-reform
"One of the remarkable aspects of the politics of health care reform in America is the way that conservatives - even relatively mild, seemingly informed conservatives - have managed to keep believing that the Affordable Care Act is unraveling, despite the repeated failure of disaster predictions to come true. Part of the way this works is that when it comes to Obamacare, the captive media and the right's pet "experts" hype every bit of bad news about the law, but go silent when the news is good (and, often, when the bad news turns out to be a false alarm). How many people will even hear about the news that enrollments are once again running above expectations, and that the enrollment pool is getting younger? Anyway, it's really helpful to have a new report from the Commonwealth Fund comparing the actual performance of the ACA with pre-implementation predictions. It turns out that premiums came in far below expectations. (The 2016 premium hikes rolled back some of this positive news, but overall costs still look very good.) On enrollments: Fewer people than expected signed up for the exchanges, but an important reason was that fewer employers than expected ended coverage and moved their employees into the individual market. Meanwhile, Medicaid expanded more than projected - and the overall reduction in the number of uninsured Americans was pretty much in line with forecasts. So the program is achieving its goals, albeit with a somewhat different mix of insurance types than was originally predicted, and doing so more cheaply than anticipated. That's a big success story - and remember, the critics scoffed at those expectations and prophesied utter disaster."
"One of the remarkable aspects of the politics of health care reform in America is the way that conservatives - even relatively mild, seemingly informed conservatives - have managed to keep believing that the Affordable Care Act is unraveling, despite the repeated failure of disaster predictions to come true. Part of the way this works is that when it comes to Obamacare, the captive media and the right's pet "experts" hype every bit of bad news about the law, but go silent when the news is good (and, often, when the bad news turns out to be a false alarm). How many people will even hear about the news that enrollments are once again running above expectations, and that the enrollment pool is getting younger? Anyway, it's really helpful to have a new report from the Commonwealth Fund comparing the actual performance of the ACA with pre-implementation predictions. It turns out that premiums came in far below expectations. (The 2016 premium hikes rolled back some of this positive news, but overall costs still look very good.) On enrollments: Fewer people than expected signed up for the exchanges, but an important reason was that fewer employers than expected ended coverage and moved their employees into the individual market. Meanwhile, Medicaid expanded more than projected - and the overall reduction in the number of uninsured Americans was pretty much in line with forecasts. So the program is achieving its goals, albeit with a somewhat different mix of insurance types than was originally predicted, and doing so more cheaply than anticipated. That's a big success story - and remember, the critics scoffed at those expectations and prophesied utter disaster."
Once Again, The Right Wing's ACA Part-Time Myth Falls Apart
http://mediamatters.org/blog/2016/01/05/once-again-the-right-wings-aca-part-time-myth-f/207785
"Despite being repeatedly debunked, right-wing pundits have continued to push the false claim that the Affordable Care Act would negatively effect American employment, claiming its enactment would drive losses in full-time jobs while increasing part-time employment -- though no data has supported this assertion."
"Despite being repeatedly debunked, right-wing pundits have continued to push the false claim that the Affordable Care Act would negatively effect American employment, claiming its enactment would drive losses in full-time jobs while increasing part-time employment -- though no data has supported this assertion."
The Most Conservative States Depend Far More On Federal Aid – This Proves It (IMAGE)
http://www.addictinginfo.org/2016/01/07/the-most-conservative-states-depend-far-more-on-federal-aid-this-proves-it-image/
"the reddest states (most particularly the Bible Belt in the south) actually rely on Uncle Sam far more than the most liberal states in the nation."
"the reddest states (most particularly the Bible Belt in the south) actually rely on Uncle Sam far more than the most liberal states in the nation."
Numbers Don’t Lie: Conservatives Use Way More Welfare Than Liberals
http://www.occupydemocrats.com/numbers-dont-lie-conservatives-use-way-more-welfare-than-liberals/
"Red States — the ones governed by folks who think government is too big and spending needs to be cut — are a net drain on the economy, taking in more federal spending than they pay out in federal taxes."
"Red States — the ones governed by folks who think government is too big and spending needs to be cut — are a net drain on the economy, taking in more federal spending than they pay out in federal taxes."
The GOP’s reign of gubernatorial terror: Here are the small-government zealots who made their states considerably worse
The GOP’s reign of gubernatorial terror: Here are the small-government zealots who made their states considerably worse
"The next time some idiot wearing a Donald Trump t-shirt and a sneer tells you that we need leaders who will run the government more like a business, kindly direct their attention to Snyder. A business executive and CPA with no prior experience serving in government, Snyder was elected in the wave election of 2010 that swept Tea Party conservatives into office at the state and federal level. He immediately set about trying to run the state like it was a division of Gateway, the computer company where he was an executive during the 1990s. He crushed unions and made Michigan a right-to-work state, cutting services, and replacing the business tax with a flat tax while eliminating tax breaks on pensions, thus putting more of the state’s tax burden on the poor and working classes. The result? Michigan now ranks a whopping 36th in per capita income and just spent a year and a half poisoning 100,000 people with water so polluted, a local General Motors engine plant stopped using it because it corroded the factory’s machinery. Snyder is not the only Republican governor swept into power during the Tea Party wave of 2009-10 who used his state as a lab experiment for the type of conservative governance the GOP has been pushing for decades – lower regulations, lower taxes, slashing government services, and generally screwing over everyone not in their socio-economic class through austerity budgets and a boneheaded, stubborn refusal to adjust their policies in reaction to changing events. How is that working out for some of the other governors? You’re probably already well acquainted with the disasters of the Scott Walker and Chris Christie administrations. But let’s review some of the others."
"The next time some idiot wearing a Donald Trump t-shirt and a sneer tells you that we need leaders who will run the government more like a business, kindly direct their attention to Snyder. A business executive and CPA with no prior experience serving in government, Snyder was elected in the wave election of 2010 that swept Tea Party conservatives into office at the state and federal level. He immediately set about trying to run the state like it was a division of Gateway, the computer company where he was an executive during the 1990s. He crushed unions and made Michigan a right-to-work state, cutting services, and replacing the business tax with a flat tax while eliminating tax breaks on pensions, thus putting more of the state’s tax burden on the poor and working classes. The result? Michigan now ranks a whopping 36th in per capita income and just spent a year and a half poisoning 100,000 people with water so polluted, a local General Motors engine plant stopped using it because it corroded the factory’s machinery. Snyder is not the only Republican governor swept into power during the Tea Party wave of 2009-10 who used his state as a lab experiment for the type of conservative governance the GOP has been pushing for decades – lower regulations, lower taxes, slashing government services, and generally screwing over everyone not in their socio-economic class through austerity budgets and a boneheaded, stubborn refusal to adjust their policies in reaction to changing events. How is that working out for some of the other governors? You’re probably already well acquainted with the disasters of the Scott Walker and Chris Christie administrations. But let’s review some of the others."
Calls for Michigan Gov. Snyder's Arrest as Flint Poisoning Scandal Implicates Top Staffers
Calls for Michigan Gov. Snyder's Arrest as Flint Poisoning Scandal Implicates Top Staffers
"Calls for Michigan Governor Rick Snyder's ouster—and arrest—are growing after internal emails showed that his high-level staffers were aware of lead poisoning in Flint's public water supply six months before the administration declared a state of emergency."
"Calls for Michigan Governor Rick Snyder's ouster—and arrest—are growing after internal emails showed that his high-level staffers were aware of lead poisoning in Flint's public water supply six months before the administration declared a state of emergency."
Michigan Governor Rick Snyder Poisons Flint Kids And Then Declares An Emergency
http://www.politicususa.com/2016/01/07/michigan-governor-snyder-poisons-flint-kids-declares-its-emergency.html
"As a brief refresher, in 2012 Michigan Governor Rick Snyder used ALEC and Mackinac Center for Public Policy tactics to impose “financial martial law” and corporate-backed “disaster capitalism” on the state’s residents. As governor, Snyder appointed little corporate tyrants known as “emergency managers” with unprecedented dictatorial authority to disband unions, corporatize city services, abolish school districts, and dissolve local elected governments; it was a move touted as the corporate model to help Michigan residents adjust to privatization and loss of liberty. Now, although there were numerous warnings that people’s lives were being put at risk with an ALEC corporate tyrant running the show, Michigan’s governor can hardly deny that his ALEC-Mackinac tyrannical takeover is literally poisoning entire communities; all in the name of GOP and ALEC privatization and austerity madness. On Tuesday Rick Snyder was “forced” to declare a state of emergency in two Michigan counties, Flint and Genesee, because the water supply is toxic with lead."
"As a brief refresher, in 2012 Michigan Governor Rick Snyder used ALEC and Mackinac Center for Public Policy tactics to impose “financial martial law” and corporate-backed “disaster capitalism” on the state’s residents. As governor, Snyder appointed little corporate tyrants known as “emergency managers” with unprecedented dictatorial authority to disband unions, corporatize city services, abolish school districts, and dissolve local elected governments; it was a move touted as the corporate model to help Michigan residents adjust to privatization and loss of liberty. Now, although there were numerous warnings that people’s lives were being put at risk with an ALEC corporate tyrant running the show, Michigan’s governor can hardly deny that his ALEC-Mackinac tyrannical takeover is literally poisoning entire communities; all in the name of GOP and ALEC privatization and austerity madness. On Tuesday Rick Snyder was “forced” to declare a state of emergency in two Michigan counties, Flint and Genesee, because the water supply is toxic with lead."
Trump Campaign Issues Ridiculous Excuse After Getting Busted Using Fake Footage in Ad (Video)
Trump Campaign Issues Ridiculous Excuse After Getting Busted Using Fake Footage in Ad (Video)
"They made this dishonest video, got busted, then instead of simply admitting that they did something unethical – they lied some more. Multiple times, in fact."
"They made this dishonest video, got busted, then instead of simply admitting that they did something unethical – they lied some more. Multiple times, in fact."
Did You Spot The ‘Pants On Fire’ Moment In Trump’s First Campaign TV Ad? Politifact Did (VIDEO)
http://www.addictinginfo.org/2016/01/05/did-you-spot-the-pants-on-fire-moment-in-trumps-first-campaign-tv-ad-politifact-did-video/
"Proving once again that he has all the personal integrity of a toddler with a cookie jar, the GOP front runner simply steps over his lie and moves on."
"Proving once again that he has all the personal integrity of a toddler with a cookie jar, the GOP front runner simply steps over his lie and moves on."
Bernie Sanders Lays Out Plan To Break Up Wall Street Banks
Bernie Sanders Lays Out Plan To Break Up Wall Street Banks
"Sanders promised to create a list of the biggest "too big to fail" institutions within the first 100 days of his presidency, and then break them up. He would also reinstate Glass-Steagall and establish rigid firewalls between insurance, securities and banking. Sanders then promised to tax Wall Street speculators as penalty for destabilizing markets. In addition, he would force bond rating agencies to become non-profit entities in order to reduce the possibility of favoritism toward Wall Street."
"Sanders promised to create a list of the biggest "too big to fail" institutions within the first 100 days of his presidency, and then break them up. He would also reinstate Glass-Steagall and establish rigid firewalls between insurance, securities and banking. Sanders then promised to tax Wall Street speculators as penalty for destabilizing markets. In addition, he would force bond rating agencies to become non-profit entities in order to reduce the possibility of favoritism toward Wall Street."
The 15 Most Ridiculous Things Conservative Media Said About Climate Change In 2015
http://mediamatters.org/research/2015/12/30/the-15-most-ridiculous-things-conservative-medi/207669
"2015 has been full of major landmarks in national and global efforts to address global warming. Yet you wouldn't know it if you inhabited the parallel universe of the conservative media, where media figures went to ridiculous and outrageous lengths to dismiss or deny climate science, attack the pope, scientists, and anyone else concerned with climate change, and defend polluting fossil fuel companies."
"2015 has been full of major landmarks in national and global efforts to address global warming. Yet you wouldn't know it if you inhabited the parallel universe of the conservative media, where media figures went to ridiculous and outrageous lengths to dismiss or deny climate science, attack the pope, scientists, and anyone else concerned with climate change, and defend polluting fossil fuel companies."
Jim Hightower: The Corporate Media Is Basically Pretending Bernie Sanders Doesn't Exist @alternet
Jim Hightower: The Corporate Media Is Basically Pretending Bernie Sanders Doesn't Exist @alternet
"polls also show Bernie trouncing The Donald if they face each other in November’s presidential showdown. So surely he’s getting a proportional level of media coverage by the networks on our public airwaves, right? Ha, just kidding! The big networks’ devotion of 234 minutes to all-things-Trump was “balanced” by less than 10 minutes for Sanders. Most egregious was ABC, the Disney-owned network. ABC’s World News Tonight awarded 81 minutes of national showtime to Trump last year — and for Bernie: 20 seconds."
"polls also show Bernie trouncing The Donald if they face each other in November’s presidential showdown. So surely he’s getting a proportional level of media coverage by the networks on our public airwaves, right? Ha, just kidding! The big networks’ devotion of 234 minutes to all-things-Trump was “balanced” by less than 10 minutes for Sanders. Most egregious was ABC, the Disney-owned network. ABC’s World News Tonight awarded 81 minutes of national showtime to Trump last year — and for Bernie: 20 seconds."
Republicans in Congress couldn't stop all these minimum wage increases
http://www.dailykos.com/stories/2015/12/31/1461237/-Republicans-in-Congress-couldn-t-stop-all-these-minimum-wage-increases
"The federal minimum wage is still $7.25 an hour, and it’s going to stay that way as long as Republicans control Congress. But that doesn’t mean 2015 didn’t see progress for many low-wage workers, while minimum wage advances won in recent years will keep going into effect in 2016. The minimum wage was raised in cities, counties, and states in 2015"
"The federal minimum wage is still $7.25 an hour, and it’s going to stay that way as long as Republicans control Congress. But that doesn’t mean 2015 didn’t see progress for many low-wage workers, while minimum wage advances won in recent years will keep going into effect in 2016. The minimum wage was raised in cities, counties, and states in 2015"
Watch The Very Worst GOP Anti-Science Moments Of 2015
http://www.politicususa.com/2016/01/02/watch-worst-gop-anti-science-moments-2015.html
"The U.S. Republican Party remained the only major political party in the world continuing to deny climate change."
"The U.S. Republican Party remained the only major political party in the world continuing to deny climate change."
American workers see progress on paid sick leave, no thanks to Congress
http://www.dailykos.com/stories/2015/12/31/1461272/-American-workers-see-progress-on-paid-sick-leave-no-thanks-to-Congress
"Despite all that progress, though, Republicans remain determined to keep workers going to work sick. In Michigan, for instance, Republicans passed a state law to block cities and towns from passing either paid sick leave or minimum wage increases. And their party’s presidential candidates? Ha ha ha."
"Despite all that progress, though, Republicans remain determined to keep workers going to work sick. In Michigan, for instance, Republicans passed a state law to block cities and towns from passing either paid sick leave or minimum wage increases. And their party’s presidential candidates? Ha ha ha."
Bernie Sanders Represents America's Working Class, Not Donald Trump
Bernie Sanders Represents America's Working Class, Not Donald Trump
"The GOP fringe, led by Donald Trump, is once again trying to convince working class people to embrace hatred and divert more of the wealth to the 1%."
"The GOP fringe, led by Donald Trump, is once again trying to convince working class people to embrace hatred and divert more of the wealth to the 1%."
The Kochs Worst Nightmares Come True As Bernie Sanders Smashes Fundraising Records
http://www.politicususa.com/2016/01/02/kochs-worst-nightmares-true-bernie-sanders-smashes-fundraising-records.html
"The success of Bernie Sanders is the worst nightmare of the billionaires who are trying to buy our government with Citizens United-fueled dark money. Millions of ordinary Americans are rising and saying not this time to the corporations and billionaires."
"The success of Bernie Sanders is the worst nightmare of the billionaires who are trying to buy our government with Citizens United-fueled dark money. Millions of ordinary Americans are rising and saying not this time to the corporations and billionaires."
Tom Cotton Accepted $1 Million From Israel To Sabotage Iran Nuclear Deal
http://www.addictinginfo.org/2016/01/04/tom-cotton-accepted-1-million-from-israel-to-sabotage-iran-nuclear-deal/
"And this perfectly illustrates how Israel got Republicans to turn against their own country, and is fitting since a recent NSA leak has revealed that Israel did, indeed, bribe GOP members of Congress to rail against the Iran deal."
"And this perfectly illustrates how Israel got Republicans to turn against their own country, and is fitting since a recent NSA leak has revealed that Israel did, indeed, bribe GOP members of Congress to rail against the Iran deal."
Rich Televangelist: God Only Talks To Me On Private Jets So Please Give Me Money, Thank You
Rich Televangelist: God Only Talks To Me On Private Jets So Please Give Me Money, Thank You
"The church and his followers afforded him this luxurious lifestyle. And basically, so do taxpayers. But that's not all. A fleet of planes is also registered to the church and then there's The Kenneth Copeland Airport located right next to his mansion."
"The church and his followers afforded him this luxurious lifestyle. And basically, so do taxpayers. But that's not all. A fleet of planes is also registered to the church and then there's The Kenneth Copeland Airport located right next to his mansion."
Who's The Liar Now, Donald Trump?
Who's The Liar Now, Donald Trump?
"Those of us who live in reality are unsurprised by this. It is a given that whatever blurts out of Trump's little brain is intended to foment hate, which is something that terrorists use to their advantage."
"Those of us who live in reality are unsurprised by this. It is a given that whatever blurts out of Trump's little brain is intended to foment hate, which is something that terrorists use to their advantage."
Hillary Was Right: Trump Rant On Muslims Shows Up On New Terror Recruitment Video
http://www.addictinginfo.org/2016/01/01/hillary-was-right-trump-rant-on-muslims-shows-up-on-new-terror-recruitment-video/
"A desperate, losing terror group like Al-Shabab is staking their future on Trump. That should say it all."
"A desperate, losing terror group like Al-Shabab is staking their future on Trump. That should say it all."
Thursday, January 7, 2016
5 Examples Proving How the Republican Party Reached New Lows in 2015
5 Examples Proving How the Republican Party Reached New Lows in 2015
"4. Glenn Beck said that 10,000 pastors were willing to die in opposition to same-sex marriage and gay rights: Glenn Beck Warns That 10,000 Pastors Are Willing To Die Opposing Marriage Equality (Last I checked, exactly zero pastors have died because of same-sex marriage)"
"4. Glenn Beck said that 10,000 pastors were willing to die in opposition to same-sex marriage and gay rights: Glenn Beck Warns That 10,000 Pastors Are Willing To Die Opposing Marriage Equality (Last I checked, exactly zero pastors have died because of same-sex marriage)"
Trump Brags About Being 'Man of the Year' on Site That Suggested Gays Caused Holocaust
Trump Brags About Being 'Man of the Year' on Site That Suggested Gays Caused Holocaust
"the depravity of this site doesn’t stop at “birtherism.” This is a group of people who’ve perpetuated the idea that soy leads to homosexuality; promoted a book that claimed most Nazis were gay and responsible for the Holocaust; and has pushed the idea that the “blood moon” is a sign that the world is coming to an end. Even the Southern Poverty Law Center has condemned them for essentially embracing white nationalism. Plus they’re also a leading site for pushing anti-Muslim propaganda. In other words, the website is a joke. Well, to the surprise of nobody reading this I’m sure, the folks over at WMD named Donald Trump their “Man of the Year.” When you’re a website that white supremacists embrace, anti-Muslim bigots trust and homophobic idiots think is credible – it’s only natural that someone like Trump would be the person they admired most in 2015."
"the depravity of this site doesn’t stop at “birtherism.” This is a group of people who’ve perpetuated the idea that soy leads to homosexuality; promoted a book that claimed most Nazis were gay and responsible for the Holocaust; and has pushed the idea that the “blood moon” is a sign that the world is coming to an end. Even the Southern Poverty Law Center has condemned them for essentially embracing white nationalism. Plus they’re also a leading site for pushing anti-Muslim propaganda. In other words, the website is a joke. Well, to the surprise of nobody reading this I’m sure, the folks over at WMD named Donald Trump their “Man of the Year.” When you’re a website that white supremacists embrace, anti-Muslim bigots trust and homophobic idiots think is credible – it’s only natural that someone like Trump would be the person they admired most in 2015."
Why Donald Trump Gets Away With Lying So Easily
Why Donald Trump Gets Away With Lying So Easily
"keep watching Trump use his particular rhetorical style to keep the angry bigots stirred up and hungry."
"keep watching Trump use his particular rhetorical style to keep the angry bigots stirred up and hungry."
New Report Confirms Domestic Terrorism Is A Much Bigger Threat To U.S. Than ISIS
http://www.occupydemocrats.com/new-report-confirms-domestic-terrorism-is-a-much-bigger-threat-to-u-s-than-isis/
"Another study, conducted by the United States Military Academy’s Combating Terrorism Center, found that right-wing terrorists were responsible for 254 deaths in the decade after 9/11. Taking into account the overlapping time periods encompassed by these two studies, right-wing extremists have killed over 350 Americans since 9/11, while Islamic extremists have killed 89. While it is worth noting that the chances of either are infinitesimally tiny, a random American today is about 400% more likely to be killed by a right-wing terrorist than an Islamic terrorist. In every single year except 2001, right wing terrorists killed more Americans than their radical Islamic compatriots."
"Another study, conducted by the United States Military Academy’s Combating Terrorism Center, found that right-wing terrorists were responsible for 254 deaths in the decade after 9/11. Taking into account the overlapping time periods encompassed by these two studies, right-wing extremists have killed over 350 Americans since 9/11, while Islamic extremists have killed 89. While it is worth noting that the chances of either are infinitesimally tiny, a random American today is about 400% more likely to be killed by a right-wing terrorist than an Islamic terrorist. In every single year except 2001, right wing terrorists killed more Americans than their radical Islamic compatriots."
Radio Host Who Threatened To Shoot Clinton Is Spokesman For Oregon Militia
http://talkingpointsmemo.com/livewire/pete-santilli-oregon-militia-spokesman
"Santilli came under fire, including an investigation by the Secret Service, after he threatened to shoot former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton"
"Santilli came under fire, including an investigation by the Secret Service, after he threatened to shoot former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton"
Neo-Nazi cheers on Oregon militants: ‘What Dylann Roof did was a hissy fit — this is not’
Neo-Nazi cheers on Oregon militants: ‘What Dylann Roof did was a hissy fit — this is not’
"There are no documented ties between the Malheur militants and organized white supremacist groups, although a self-proclaimed member of an Arizona Ku Klux Klan group claims he helped organize an anti-Muslim rally with participant Jon Ritzheimer. Even so, Covington praised the militants from afar and called on his own followers to take inspiration from their anti-government actions."
"There are no documented ties between the Malheur militants and organized white supremacist groups, although a self-proclaimed member of an Arizona Ku Klux Klan group claims he helped organize an anti-Muslim rally with participant Jon Ritzheimer. Even so, Covington praised the militants from afar and called on his own followers to take inspiration from their anti-government actions."
The founding fathers would’ve hated the Bundy siege
The founding fathers would’ve hated the Bundy siege
"Fortunately, there is an antidote to their mindless assertions and demands: facts."
"Fortunately, there is an antidote to their mindless assertions and demands: facts."
Oregon militant Ryan Bundy insists he’s not a terrorist — but he doesn’t even know what that word means
Oregon militant Ryan Bundy insists he’s not a terrorist — but he doesn’t even know what that word means
"The U.S. Code defines domestic terrorism as “activities that … appear to be intended … to influence the policy of a government by intimidation or coercion and … occur primarily within the territorial jurisdiction of the United States"."
"The U.S. Code defines domestic terrorism as “activities that … appear to be intended … to influence the policy of a government by intimidation or coercion and … occur primarily within the territorial jurisdiction of the United States"."
Oregon Militia Terrorist: I’ll Die Before I Let The Feds Arrest Me (VIDEO)
http://www.addictinginfo.org/2016/01/06/oregon-militia-terrorist-ill-die-before-i-let-the-feds-arrest-me-video/
"Well, sir, if you weren’t breaking the law, you wouldn’t have reason to fear spending time in prison. These idiots need to be arrested. They are nothing more than real life, bona fide terrorists. This guy is so dumb that he sincerely believes that the authorities won’t find him because he is hiding under a huge blue tarp in the middle of a vacant parking lot with his gun."
"Well, sir, if you weren’t breaking the law, you wouldn’t have reason to fear spending time in prison. These idiots need to be arrested. They are nothing more than real life, bona fide terrorists. This guy is so dumb that he sincerely believes that the authorities won’t find him because he is hiding under a huge blue tarp in the middle of a vacant parking lot with his gun."
We Laugh At The Bundy Cult Now, But It Can Stop Being Funny
http://www.breitbartunmasked.com/2016/01/05/we-laugh-at-the-bundy-cult-now-but-it-can-stop-being-funny/
"But these numbers also result from the dual-track strategy of an enduring land privatization campaign funded by right wing billionaires: fossil fuel, timber, mining interests, and welfare ranchers lobby for administrative action while their puppet executives are in power, then stoke ‘range war’ whenever Democrats take the White House. It’s important to remember that the standoff at Bundy Ranch began with support from the Colorado chapter of Americans for Prosperity, an organization created and funded by the Koch brothers. Not coincidentally, the American Legislative Exchange Council, the Koch brothers’ state-level policy ‘bill mill’, has tirelessly worked to transfer public lands to private hands in recent years."
"But these numbers also result from the dual-track strategy of an enduring land privatization campaign funded by right wing billionaires: fossil fuel, timber, mining interests, and welfare ranchers lobby for administrative action while their puppet executives are in power, then stoke ‘range war’ whenever Democrats take the White House. It’s important to remember that the standoff at Bundy Ranch began with support from the Colorado chapter of Americans for Prosperity, an organization created and funded by the Koch brothers. Not coincidentally, the American Legislative Exchange Council, the Koch brothers’ state-level policy ‘bill mill’, has tirelessly worked to transfer public lands to private hands in recent years."
Ammon Bundy Compares Himself To George Washington, Who Quashed The Whiskey Rebellion | Right Wing Watch
Ammon Bundy Compares Himself To George Washington, Who Quashed The Whiskey Rebellion | Right Wing Watch
"Bundy may want to hit the books and learn a bit more about what Washington thought of armed insurrections after the U.S. became an independent nation."
"Bundy may want to hit the books and learn a bit more about what Washington thought of armed insurrections after the U.S. became an independent nation."
5 Taxpayer Handouts the Bundys Receive While Railing Against Government “Tyranny”
http://usuncut.com/news/5-government-handouts-bundys-receive/
"The armed militiamen currently occupying the Malheur Wildlife Refuge in Oregon have attempted to portray an image of themselves as rugged, independent Americans rejecting government interference in their businesses. But nearly every part of their existence as ranchers is made possible by government welfare programs — even the building they’re depending on for shelter from the cold was built by federal tax dollars as part of the New Deal program. Here are just a few ways taxpayers are subsidizing the livelihoods of cattle ranchers like the Bundy family"
"The armed militiamen currently occupying the Malheur Wildlife Refuge in Oregon have attempted to portray an image of themselves as rugged, independent Americans rejecting government interference in their businesses. But nearly every part of their existence as ranchers is made possible by government welfare programs — even the building they’re depending on for shelter from the cold was built by federal tax dollars as part of the New Deal program. Here are just a few ways taxpayers are subsidizing the livelihoods of cattle ranchers like the Bundy family"
The Disturbing History Of The Ideology Behind The Oregon Militia Standoff | Right Wing Watch
The Disturbing History Of The Ideology Behind The Oregon Militia Standoff | Right Wing Watch
"As Daniel Levitas explains in “The Terrorist Next Door,” his 2002 book on the history of the militia movement, the ideology of today’s antigovernment extremists is built on the ideas first formulated by William Potter Gale, a racist and anti-Semitic California preacher who argued in the 1960s and 1970s that local “posses,” under the leadership of a county sheriff, hold the true law enforcement power in the country and must resist an oppressive federal government. But Gale’s ideas really took off when they were plagiarized and distributed by Mike Beach, a former member of the fascist “Silver Shirts” movement living in Oregon."
"As Daniel Levitas explains in “The Terrorist Next Door,” his 2002 book on the history of the militia movement, the ideology of today’s antigovernment extremists is built on the ideas first formulated by William Potter Gale, a racist and anti-Semitic California preacher who argued in the 1960s and 1970s that local “posses,” under the leadership of a county sheriff, hold the true law enforcement power in the country and must resist an oppressive federal government. But Gale’s ideas really took off when they were plagiarized and distributed by Mike Beach, a former member of the fascist “Silver Shirts” movement living in Oregon."
Fox Promotes Conspiracy Theorist Who Threatened Sexual Violence Against Hillary Clinton As Militia Spokesperson
http://mediamatters.org/research/2016/01/04/fox-promotes-conspiracy-theorist-who-threatened/207723
"Fox News is promoting Pete Santilli as a spokesman for the armed group that is occupying a federal building in Oregon. Santilli is better known as a conservative Internet host who has espoused conspiracy theories about the September 11 attacks and repeatedly expressed a desire to shoot Hillary Clinton"
"Fox News is promoting Pete Santilli as a spokesman for the armed group that is occupying a federal building in Oregon. Santilli is better known as a conservative Internet host who has espoused conspiracy theories about the September 11 attacks and repeatedly expressed a desire to shoot Hillary Clinton"
The Bundy Siege is a Wake-Up Call: American Extremists Are Getting Desperate and Dangerous @alternet
The Bundy Siege is a Wake-Up Call: American Extremists Are Getting Desperate and Dangerous @alternet
"Leading this latest insurrection are two of Cliven Bundy’s children, wealthy ranchers who are furious that they aren’t allowed to pillage public resource for their personal profit."
"Leading this latest insurrection are two of Cliven Bundy’s children, wealthy ranchers who are furious that they aren’t allowed to pillage public resource for their personal profit."
Mormon church rips Bundy militants: ‘This armed occupation cannot be justified on a scriptural basis’
Mormon church rips Bundy militants: ‘This armed occupation cannot be justified on a scriptural basis’
"Officials with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS) rejected any religious justification on Monday by the militant group behind the takeover of a federal building in Oregon."
"Officials with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS) rejected any religious justification on Monday by the militant group behind the takeover of a federal building in Oregon."
Nobody In Oregon Seems To Want The Bundy Militia There
http://www.addictinginfo.org/2016/01/04/nobody-in-oregon-seems-to-want-the-bundy-militia-there/
"This entire operation seems to be an uninvited patriot telethon requesting “donations” so the masterminds of this fiasco can play soldier instead of getting a real job."
"This entire operation seems to be an uninvited patriot telethon requesting “donations” so the masterminds of this fiasco can play soldier instead of getting a real job."
Bundy Militia Standoff Forces Schools To Close Over Fear Of Violence
http://www.occupydemocrats.com/bundy-militia-standoff-forces-schools-to-close-over-fear-of-violence/
"It’s bad enough that these grifters have put all of the employees of the Refuge out of work, but now they have also caused kids to lose valuable time in their classrooms and put others in the line of fire. While all of this is going on, the mainstream media refuses to address the situation with the severity that it requires, acting like their demands are legitimate and legitimizing them by calling them “protesters.” The GOP claims to care about America and families, but when their own feeble-minded, merry band of anti-government “patriots” carry out an armed insurgency, they quietly applaud them and declare their support for resisting the federal government. At the end of the day, if any children are hurt or these 800 kids are forced to lose even more time in their classrooms, the blame will lie squarely at the feet of the Republican Party. They have spent nearly a decade brainwashing their ammosexual, Obama-hating base and we are now seeing the result of their rhetoric play out live in Oregon."
"It’s bad enough that these grifters have put all of the employees of the Refuge out of work, but now they have also caused kids to lose valuable time in their classrooms and put others in the line of fire. While all of this is going on, the mainstream media refuses to address the situation with the severity that it requires, acting like their demands are legitimate and legitimizing them by calling them “protesters.” The GOP claims to care about America and families, but when their own feeble-minded, merry band of anti-government “patriots” carry out an armed insurgency, they quietly applaud them and declare their support for resisting the federal government. At the end of the day, if any children are hurt or these 800 kids are forced to lose even more time in their classrooms, the blame will lie squarely at the feet of the Republican Party. They have spent nearly a decade brainwashing their ammosexual, Obama-hating base and we are now seeing the result of their rhetoric play out live in Oregon."
Welfare Queen Ammon Bundy Got A $530,000 Loan From The Government For His Business
http://www.occupydemocrats.com/welfare-queen-ammon-bundy-got-a-530000-loan-from-the-government-for-his-business/
"It will come as no surprise that the leader of the “militia” that has taken over a federal building in Burns, Oregon, has had no problem with federal government when it comes to getting him some money."
"It will come as no surprise that the leader of the “militia” that has taken over a federal building in Burns, Oregon, has had no problem with federal government when it comes to getting him some money."
They created our Bundy/Trump hellscape: Fox News’ angry white audience will destroy us yet
They created our Bundy/Trump hellscape: Fox News’ angry white audience will destroy us yet
"Fox News viewers don’t care about reality or the truth; they watch for the sport of it and they simply can’t turn away."
"Fox News viewers don’t care about reality or the truth; they watch for the sport of it and they simply can’t turn away."
This Anti-Government Oregon Terrorist Took Thousands In Government Money
http://www.addictinginfo.org/2016/01/04/this-anti-government-oregon-terrorist-took-thousands-in-government-money/
"This is the same sort of mindset we’ve seen for years and years on the mainstream right. Out of one side of the mouth comes words condemning the government, often attacking those who have sought help from the government – particularly ethnic minorities who dare to receive government support, even temporarily. From the other side of the mouth they are more than willing to build their personal fortunes on top of government help and assistance. Help for me, not for thee. They may as well be part of the Tea Party crowd demanding that the government take its hands off Medicare."
"This is the same sort of mindset we’ve seen for years and years on the mainstream right. Out of one side of the mouth comes words condemning the government, often attacking those who have sought help from the government – particularly ethnic minorities who dare to receive government support, even temporarily. From the other side of the mouth they are more than willing to build their personal fortunes on top of government help and assistance. Help for me, not for thee. They may as well be part of the Tea Party crowd demanding that the government take its hands off Medicare."
Ammon Bundy Hates Government Unless It Gives Him Money
Ammon Bundy Hates Government Unless It Gives Him Money
"These right wingers are so ridiculous about their hatred for government. This is Ammon Bundy in a nutshell: Bundy hates government when they stand in the way of what he wants to do, and he loves government when they pave the way for what he wants to do."
"These right wingers are so ridiculous about their hatred for government. This is Ammon Bundy in a nutshell: Bundy hates government when they stand in the way of what he wants to do, and he loves government when they pave the way for what he wants to do."
The Militia Idiots in Oregon Deserve To Be Laughed At (But Never Forget One Thing)
http://thedailybanter.com/2016/01/oregon-militia-idiots/
"There’s so much material already there to work with, including the signs emblazoned with fiery slogans they’ve posted to warn people off — slogans with, of course, multiple misspellings — and social media pleas for “snacks” that they apparently forgot to pack, despite claims that they plan to occupy the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge for years. There’s the comically melodramatic “goodbye” videos posted by these idiots to their families — their oath to protect this land has to come first, after all — and the predictable fracturing of the group’s conspiracy theorist support network, part of which has declared that this whole takeover is nothing more than a false flag operation. All of it is deserving of a Nelson-from-The Simpsons-style point and laugh — except of course for the one lingering issue that hangs over this entire thing like an ominous black cloud. The fact is, as dumb and pathetic as these clowns are, they’re heavily armed."
"There’s so much material already there to work with, including the signs emblazoned with fiery slogans they’ve posted to warn people off — slogans with, of course, multiple misspellings — and social media pleas for “snacks” that they apparently forgot to pack, despite claims that they plan to occupy the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge for years. There’s the comically melodramatic “goodbye” videos posted by these idiots to their families — their oath to protect this land has to come first, after all — and the predictable fracturing of the group’s conspiracy theorist support network, part of which has declared that this whole takeover is nothing more than a false flag operation. All of it is deserving of a Nelson-from-The Simpsons-style point and laugh — except of course for the one lingering issue that hangs over this entire thing like an ominous black cloud. The fact is, as dumb and pathetic as these clowns are, they’re heavily armed."
The American Right Is Now a Terrorist Organization
http://thedailybanter.com/2016/01/american-right-now-terrorist-organization/
"Led by two sons of racist, anti-government rancher Cliven Bundy, these heavily armed domestic terrorists have put the call out for like-minded military cosplaying yokels to join them in what they say will be a long battle against the evil United States government, one they’re prepared to turn into an active shooting war if necessary. For years now, certainly since the beginning of the Obama presidency, the fever dreams of conspiracy theorist dolts like the “militiamen” now in Oregon have been stoked and pandered to by the conservative establishment and its media arm at Fox News and on talk radio. The heated, alarmist rhetoric — the calls of “arm yourselves!” and the absurd cries of “tyranny!” — has created an environment in which the kind of domestic terrorism we’re now seeing was always an inevitability, given that shouting “fire” in a crowded theater tends to make people get up and run. There’s a cause and effect relationship here that’s undeniable. What’s happening in Oregon is the chicken-hawks coming home to roost within the end-times, eliminationist fantasy world of the modern conservative movement."
"Led by two sons of racist, anti-government rancher Cliven Bundy, these heavily armed domestic terrorists have put the call out for like-minded military cosplaying yokels to join them in what they say will be a long battle against the evil United States government, one they’re prepared to turn into an active shooting war if necessary. For years now, certainly since the beginning of the Obama presidency, the fever dreams of conspiracy theorist dolts like the “militiamen” now in Oregon have been stoked and pandered to by the conservative establishment and its media arm at Fox News and on talk radio. The heated, alarmist rhetoric — the calls of “arm yourselves!” and the absurd cries of “tyranny!” — has created an environment in which the kind of domestic terrorism we’re now seeing was always an inevitability, given that shouting “fire” in a crowded theater tends to make people get up and run. There’s a cause and effect relationship here that’s undeniable. What’s happening in Oregon is the chicken-hawks coming home to roost within the end-times, eliminationist fantasy world of the modern conservative movement."
The Three Things The Oregon ‘Patriots’ REALLY Want That Nobody Is Talking About (VIDEO)
http://www.addictinginfo.org/2016/01/04/the-three-things-the-oregon-patriots-really-want-that-nobody-is-talking-about-video/
"The Bundy stance is about greed. It’s about the mentality that just because you’ve lived in a place a long time you have the right to destroy it. For private property that may be true; you may destroy your own property at will, but that land next door owned by the taxpayer? We have laws and such about that land. It isn’t yours. These people have been mooching for free for so long off of the U.S. government — and therefore the taxpayer — that they would have no idea how to live on their own. Yes, these are the same people who call people getting food benefits “lazy"."
"The Bundy stance is about greed. It’s about the mentality that just because you’ve lived in a place a long time you have the right to destroy it. For private property that may be true; you may destroy your own property at will, but that land next door owned by the taxpayer? We have laws and such about that land. It isn’t yours. These people have been mooching for free for so long off of the U.S. government — and therefore the taxpayer — that they would have no idea how to live on their own. Yes, these are the same people who call people getting food benefits “lazy"."
What’s Happening In Oregon Is TREASON, Our Founders Explicitly Wrote AGAINST Insurrection
http://www.addictinginfo.org/2016/01/03/whats-happening-in-oregon-is-treason-our-founders-explicitly-wrote-against-insurrection/
"In Article 1, Section 8 of the Constitution, it states: “To provide for calling forth the militia to execute the laws of the union, suppress insurrections and repel invasions; To provide for organizing, arming, and disciplining, the militia, and for governing such part of them as may be employed in the service of the United States, reserving to the states respectively, the appointment of the officers, and the authority of training the militia according to the discipline prescribed by Congress;” The founders use of civilian militias was not one to “overthrow” the government if citizens felt they were being wronged, it was to protect the union from insurrectionists who were a threat to the nation."
"In Article 1, Section 8 of the Constitution, it states: “To provide for calling forth the militia to execute the laws of the union, suppress insurrections and repel invasions; To provide for organizing, arming, and disciplining, the militia, and for governing such part of them as may be employed in the service of the United States, reserving to the states respectively, the appointment of the officers, and the authority of training the militia according to the discipline prescribed by Congress;” The founders use of civilian militias was not one to “overthrow” the government if citizens felt they were being wronged, it was to protect the union from insurrectionists who were a threat to the nation."
Oregon Right-Wing Terrorist Makes CHILLING Confession: ‘I Came Here To Die’ (SCREENSHOTS)
http://www.addictinginfo.org/2016/01/03/oregon-right-wing-terrorist-makes-chilling-confession-i-came-here-to-die-screenshots/
"If anyone questions whether or not the Bundy-led right-wing terrorists who violently took over a federal building in Oregon are actually violent terrorists, they need only ask “Capt. Moroni,” one of the reported more than 100 armed men who seized control of the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge over the weekend. Bundy’s people demand nothing short of “complete surrender” of the land to the conservative terrorist cell, a move they allegedly made in support of two felons and arsonists who don’t want their brand of “help.” While some — like ABC and CNN — seek to downplay this “action,” the rest of us see it for what it is: the Stupid Part of America has finally mobilized its “militia” and is willing to “kill or be killed” to achieve their goals."
"If anyone questions whether or not the Bundy-led right-wing terrorists who violently took over a federal building in Oregon are actually violent terrorists, they need only ask “Capt. Moroni,” one of the reported more than 100 armed men who seized control of the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge over the weekend. Bundy’s people demand nothing short of “complete surrender” of the land to the conservative terrorist cell, a move they allegedly made in support of two felons and arsonists who don’t want their brand of “help.” While some — like ABC and CNN — seek to downplay this “action,” the rest of us see it for what it is: the Stupid Part of America has finally mobilized its “militia” and is willing to “kill or be killed” to achieve their goals."
GOP Lawmaker Asks How He Can Support Bundy's Militia Effort In Oregon
http://talkingpointsmemo.com/livewire/andy-holt-oregon-bundy-support
"Tennessee state Rep. Andy Holt (R) asked on Twitter early Monday morning how he could support the armed militia who have taken over a federal building in rural Oregon under the leadership of Nevada rancher Cliven Bundy's son, Ammon. Holt asked, "Where can I send support for your effort?" in a tweet sent just after midnight, which has since been deleted"
"Tennessee state Rep. Andy Holt (R) asked on Twitter early Monday morning how he could support the armed militia who have taken over a federal building in rural Oregon under the leadership of Nevada rancher Cliven Bundy's son, Ammon. Holt asked, "Where can I send support for your effort?" in a tweet sent just after midnight, which has since been deleted"
Religious Extremism Is At The Heart Of Militia Takeover Of Federal Building
Religious Extremism Is At The Heart Of Militia Takeover Of Federal Building
"The tipoff was the domestic terrorist who named himself Captain Moroni."
"The tipoff was the domestic terrorist who named himself Captain Moroni."
What Twitter Just Did To Right-Wingers Makes Them Look Even More Like Terrorists (VIDEO)
http://www.addictinginfo.org/2016/01/02/what-twitter-just-did-to-right-wingers-makes-them-look-even-more-like-terrorists-video/
"Conservatives are concerned that because the policy doesn’t specifically mention ISIS that a bunch of other extremist loudmouths with violent agendas and histories may be targeted and removed from Twitter. They don’t argue the point at all from the perspective that there’s no reason to compare right-wing American “patriots” to terrorists because to suggest such a thing would be as ludicrous as any claim ever made about anything. Ever. Right-wingers are brash, crass, low-information degenerates. Occasionally you come across a right-winger with an intelligence level worthy of a game of Connect Four, but nothing you’d consider the upper middle class to wealthy American they vote to please. They are led by their puppet masters on missions to free the world from the tyrannical rule of Barack Obama, the evils of Islam and atheism, and plain red Christmas cups. They have no argument because the facts the party that rules them feeds them are fabrications and fear tactics. If right-wingers don’t like the fact that they have an extremist problem and that their own kind become radicalized and commit unimaginable acts of terror, they should do something about their own message."
"Conservatives are concerned that because the policy doesn’t specifically mention ISIS that a bunch of other extremist loudmouths with violent agendas and histories may be targeted and removed from Twitter. They don’t argue the point at all from the perspective that there’s no reason to compare right-wing American “patriots” to terrorists because to suggest such a thing would be as ludicrous as any claim ever made about anything. Ever. Right-wingers are brash, crass, low-information degenerates. Occasionally you come across a right-winger with an intelligence level worthy of a game of Connect Four, but nothing you’d consider the upper middle class to wealthy American they vote to please. They are led by their puppet masters on missions to free the world from the tyrannical rule of Barack Obama, the evils of Islam and atheism, and plain red Christmas cups. They have no argument because the facts the party that rules them feeds them are fabrications and fear tactics. If right-wingers don’t like the fact that they have an extremist problem and that their own kind become radicalized and commit unimaginable acts of terror, they should do something about their own message."
Here Are The Right-Wing Scumbags The Bundy Militiamen Say They’ll Kill People To Protect
http://www.addictinginfo.org/2016/01/03/here-are-the-right-wing-scumbags-the-bundy-militiamen-say-theyll-kill-people-to-protect/
"If the definition of terrorism is the use of violence and intimidation to achieve a political goal, then let’s call this what it is: Terrorism."
"If the definition of terrorism is the use of violence and intimidation to achieve a political goal, then let’s call this what it is: Terrorism."
Militia Member Jon Ritzheimer Posts Video Suggesting A Fight To The Death
Militia Member Jon Ritzheimer Posts Video Suggesting A Fight To The Death
"Take note of something here. 2014 was an election year, and Bundy Ranch happened. In 2015, nothing much. It's now 2016, and we have a coordinated operation intended to foment hate against the federal government. It's not by accident."
"Take note of something here. 2014 was an election year, and Bundy Ranch happened. In 2015, nothing much. It's now 2016, and we have a coordinated operation intended to foment hate against the federal government. It's not by accident."
Gerrymandering leaves NC voters with few choices in 2016
http://www.commoncause.org/states/north-carolina/gerrymandering-leaves-nc.html
"Candidate filing concluded Monday and nearly half of North Carolina's legislative races will have just one name on the ballot come November. Forty-one races for the NC House and 13 contests for the NC Senate fielded a single candidate by the close of filing. An additional 16 House and 2 Senate races will be decided solely in the primary. Ultimately, 72 of the state's 170 seats – or 42 percent – will be decided before a single vote is cast"
"Candidate filing concluded Monday and nearly half of North Carolina's legislative races will have just one name on the ballot come November. Forty-one races for the NC House and 13 contests for the NC Senate fielded a single candidate by the close of filing. An additional 16 House and 2 Senate races will be decided solely in the primary. Ultimately, 72 of the state's 170 seats – or 42 percent – will be decided before a single vote is cast"
California Ballot Initiative Would Force Lawmakers To List Corporate Donors On Clothing Like NASCAR
http://www.addictinginfo.org/2015/12/31/california-ballot-initiative-would-force-lawmakers-to-list-corporate-donors-on-clothing-like-nascar/
"Ever since the Supreme Court handed down the Citizen’s United decision, corporations and super wealthy individuals have had the ability to donate unlimited funds in secret to political campaigns. After winning election, political candidates are usually beholden to those who spent big money to help them take office and go on to push for legislation that benefits them instead of the country as a whole. And that is why a new California ballot initiative could be a game-changer that sweeps the country. The initiative is being led by California Is Not For Sale, a group run by San Diego businessman, John Cox. If passed by California voters, lawmakers in the state would have to display the logos of their top ten donors on their clothing “just like a NASCAR driver would for his sponsors.” Indeed, can you imagine Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker speaking live on television with the Koch Industries logo prominently displayed on his jacket? Or Ted Cruz speaking on the Senate floor with a big Goldman Sachs label or a label that says Club For Growth? Or how about House Speaker Paul Ryan banging the gavel with several logos on his suit from Koch Industries to Northwestern Mutual, to AT&T to Blue Cross Blue Shield? At long last, Americans would not have to painstakingly research who is buying politicians in our country. Their names would be clearly seen on the politicians themselves, making it easier to see who is trying to influence our laws, whether it is Walmart or Exxon, or conservative billionaire, Sheldon Adelson."
"Ever since the Supreme Court handed down the Citizen’s United decision, corporations and super wealthy individuals have had the ability to donate unlimited funds in secret to political campaigns. After winning election, political candidates are usually beholden to those who spent big money to help them take office and go on to push for legislation that benefits them instead of the country as a whole. And that is why a new California ballot initiative could be a game-changer that sweeps the country. The initiative is being led by California Is Not For Sale, a group run by San Diego businessman, John Cox. If passed by California voters, lawmakers in the state would have to display the logos of their top ten donors on their clothing “just like a NASCAR driver would for his sponsors.” Indeed, can you imagine Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker speaking live on television with the Koch Industries logo prominently displayed on his jacket? Or Ted Cruz speaking on the Senate floor with a big Goldman Sachs label or a label that says Club For Growth? Or how about House Speaker Paul Ryan banging the gavel with several logos on his suit from Koch Industries to Northwestern Mutual, to AT&T to Blue Cross Blue Shield? At long last, Americans would not have to painstakingly research who is buying politicians in our country. Their names would be clearly seen on the politicians themselves, making it easier to see who is trying to influence our laws, whether it is Walmart or Exxon, or conservative billionaire, Sheldon Adelson."
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