Coal Chemical Spills Turns Tap Water Toxic in W. Virginia | Common Dreams
"West Viriginia Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin has declared a state of emergency following a Thursday chemical leak at a coal industry facility along the Elk River, a source of drinking water for nine counties and hundreds of thousands of people."
January 10, 2014
Jon Stewart Takes on Fox and the Right for Continuing Their War on the Poor
Jon Stewart Takes on Fox and the Right for Continuing Their War on the Poor
"The Daily Show's Jon Stewart has finally figured out how the right decides which policies don't have to be paid for, should last forever and are "good for America" and you guessed it... they don't include any that help the poor."
"The Daily Show's Jon Stewart has finally figured out how the right decides which policies don't have to be paid for, should last forever and are "good for America" and you guessed it... they don't include any that help the poor."
Christie Says, "I Am Not a Bully." Here Are 8 Videos of Him Yelling, Name-Calling, and Belittling People.
www.motherjones.com/mojo/2014/01/chris-christie-bullying-videos
"Christie took issue with this characterization at the press conference. He asserted, "I am who I am. But I am not a bully…The tone that we've set here [is] that I'm willing to compromise." But those who have been the targets of Christie's wrath disagree. And here are 8 videos of Christie yelling, belittling people, and name-calling—and most of the clips are promoted by Christie himself on his popular YouTube page"
"Christie took issue with this characterization at the press conference. He asserted, "I am who I am. But I am not a bully…The tone that we've set here [is] that I'm willing to compromise." But those who have been the targets of Christie's wrath disagree. And here are 8 videos of Christie yelling, belittling people, and name-calling—and most of the clips are promoted by Christie himself on his popular YouTube page"
Why Chris Christie Hasn't Asked His Former Staffers What Happened
Why Chris Christie Hasn't Asked His Former Staffers What Happened
"Hint: It wasn't because he was so sad, or that anyone hurt his little feelings."
"Hint: It wasn't because he was so sad, or that anyone hurt his little feelings."
Maddow: Did Christie Retaliate Over Supreme Court Filibuster?
Maddow: Did Christie Retaliate Over Supreme Court Filibuster?
"Perhaps endorsements were the last thing on Governor Christie's mind. Maybe nominations were the motivating factor, not endorsements."
"Perhaps endorsements were the last thing on Governor Christie's mind. Maybe nominations were the motivating factor, not endorsements."
January 9, 2014
Fighting a Pipeline, but Feeling and Fearing Christie’s Influence
Fighting a Pipeline, but Feeling and Fearing Christie’s Influence
"There's a very important vote in New Jersey tomorrow, and Chris Christie's fingerprints are all over it."
"There's a very important vote in New Jersey tomorrow, and Chris Christie's fingerprints are all over it."
Why The Republican’s Old Divide-and-Conquer Strategy—Setting Working Class Against the Poor—Is Backfiring | Common Dreams
Why The Republican’s Old Divide-and-Conquer Strategy—Setting Working Class Against the Poor—Is Backfiring | Common Dreams
"For almost forty years Republicans have pursued a divide-and-conquer strategy intended to convince working-class whites that the poor were their enemies.
The big news is it’s starting to backfire."
"For almost forty years Republicans have pursued a divide-and-conquer strategy intended to convince working-class whites that the poor were their enemies.
The big news is it’s starting to backfire."
Women At Risk For Breast Cancer Will Get Free Preventive Medications Under Obamacare
www.thinkprogress.org/health/2014/01/09/3142151/breast-cancer-prevention-drugs-free-obamacare/
"The Obama administration announced on Thursday that women at risk for breast cancer will be able to get preventive cancer drugs, like tamoxifen and raloxifene, at no additional cost to them under the Affordable Care Act."
"The Obama administration announced on Thursday that women at risk for breast cancer will be able to get preventive cancer drugs, like tamoxifen and raloxifene, at no additional cost to them under the Affordable Care Act."
New Jersey Assembly Holds Wildstein in Contempt After Fifth Amendment Plea
New Jersey Assembly Holds Wildstein in Contempt After Fifth Amendment Plea
"After refusing to answer any and all questions, the New Jersey assembly found Wildstein in contempt."
"After refusing to answer any and all questions, the New Jersey assembly found Wildstein in contempt."
Christie Pal Pleads The Fifth At Bridge Scandal Hearing
www.talkingpointsmemo.com/livewire/wildstein-pleads-fifth
"David Wildstein, the former Director of Interstate Capital Projects for the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, refused to answer questions Thursday at a state Assembly committee hearing concerning the George Washington Bridge lane closing scandal."
"David Wildstein, the former Director of Interstate Capital Projects for the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, refused to answer questions Thursday at a state Assembly committee hearing concerning the George Washington Bridge lane closing scandal."
Here’s Proof That Governor Christie Is Still Misleading The Public On Bridge Scandal
www.thinkprogress.org/home/2014/01/09/3141121/christie/
"Christie, repeatedly floated the possibility of a traffic study on Thursday. “I don’t know if this was a traffic study that morphed into a political vendetta or a political vendetta that morphed into a traffic study,” he claimed."
"Christie, repeatedly floated the possibility of a traffic study on Thursday. “I don’t know if this was a traffic study that morphed into a political vendetta or a political vendetta that morphed into a traffic study,” he claimed."
‘Trickle Down’ Inventor Blames Minimum Wage For Unemployed Black Teenagers (VIDEO)
www.addictinginfo.org/2014/01/09/art-laffer-fox-minimum-wage/
"Art Laffer, the evil father of trickle-down economics, recently appeared on Fox News to let you know that he’s still horribly out-of-touch. During an appearance on Fox News’ Happening Now, the former Reagan economic adviser made a case for abolishing the minimum wage for certain workers."
"Art Laffer, the evil father of trickle-down economics, recently appeared on Fox News to let you know that he’s still horribly out-of-touch. During an appearance on Fox News’ Happening Now, the former Reagan economic adviser made a case for abolishing the minimum wage for certain workers."
The Chamber Of Commerce Attacks Obama Because He Won’t Screw You With Trickle-Down
www.politicususa.com/2014/01/09/chamber-commerce-attacks-obama-screw-trickle-down.html
"As a propaganda minister, Donahue faithfully spread false ideas (trickle-down creates jobs), misinformation (repealing Dodd-Frank and the ACA creates jobs), rumors (taxes under Obama are painfully high), and a blatant lie that eliminating “entitlements and taxes” is the key to creating jobs and growing the economy. It is likely that Republicans and Donahue have told a lie big enough and kept repeating it for thirty years leading ignorant people to believe taxes are painfully high, Social Security and Medicare kill jobs, and that regulations kill jobs. However, for any American experiencing declining wages, jobs lost to outsourcing, and suffering from safety net cuts, the thirty year lie that giving the nation’s wealth to the rich creates jobs and fosters economic growth is just bad propaganda they are unlikely to fall for again."
"As a propaganda minister, Donahue faithfully spread false ideas (trickle-down creates jobs), misinformation (repealing Dodd-Frank and the ACA creates jobs), rumors (taxes under Obama are painfully high), and a blatant lie that eliminating “entitlements and taxes” is the key to creating jobs and growing the economy. It is likely that Republicans and Donahue have told a lie big enough and kept repeating it for thirty years leading ignorant people to believe taxes are painfully high, Social Security and Medicare kill jobs, and that regulations kill jobs. However, for any American experiencing declining wages, jobs lost to outsourcing, and suffering from safety net cuts, the thirty year lie that giving the nation’s wealth to the rich creates jobs and fosters economic growth is just bad propaganda they are unlikely to fall for again."
Marco Rubio Lays Out 'New' GOP Anti-Poverty Agenda: Same as Old Anti-Poverty Agenda
Marco Rubio Lays Out 'New' GOP Anti-Poverty Agenda: Same as Old Anti-Poverty Agenda
"Sen. Rubio's big speech on poverty is exactly what we expected... just more of the same old trickle-down economics we've been hearing from them for decades now."
"Sen. Rubio's big speech on poverty is exactly what we expected... just more of the same old trickle-down economics we've been hearing from them for decades now."
Christie bridge closure delayed emergency vehicles, hindered search for missing child
www.dailykos.com/story/2014/01/09/1268204/-Christie-bridge-closure-delayed-emergency-vehicles-hindered-search-for-missing-child
"Endangering the public safety as "payback" for a member of the opposing party not sufficiently cowing to you would seem to be beyond what a non-sociopath would consider to be reasonable policy."
"Endangering the public safety as "payback" for a member of the opposing party not sufficiently cowing to you would seem to be beyond what a non-sociopath would consider to be reasonable policy."
Marco Rubio’s Plan to End Poverty Is a Joke | The Nation
Marco Rubio’s Plan to End Poverty Is a Joke | The Nation
"So much for the GOP’s much-hyped pivot to poverty backed by bold new policy specifics."
"So much for the GOP’s much-hyped pivot to poverty backed by bold new policy specifics."
A Judicial Nominee Rejected Due To Racial Insensitivity Has A Veto Over All Alabama Federal Judges
www.thinkprogress.org/justice/2014/01/09/3134911/judicial-nominee-rejected-racial-insensitivity-veto-alabama-federal-judges/
"Nearly 30 years ago, the sitting United States Attorney for the state of Alabama lost his chance to become a federal judge due to concerns about his views on race."
"Nearly 30 years ago, the sitting United States Attorney for the state of Alabama lost his chance to become a federal judge due to concerns about his views on race."
Multi-millionaire Steve Forbes Has a Cynical Plan to Keep Working People Down
www.alternet.org/news-amp-politics/multi-millionaire-steve-forbes-has-cynical-plan-keep-working-people-down
"Recent respected academic research has determined that raising the minimum wage does not result in job loss – even during bad economic times.
Forbes, a two-time unsuccessful Republican presidential candidate, is on the wrong side of the public in more ways than one. The Nelp-commissioned survey shows that 80% of the public – including 62% of those in Forbes' own party – supports raising the minimum wage to $10.10 an hour and adjusting it for inflation in the future, as President Obama and congressional Democrats propose.
An increase in the minimum wage is overdue. If the minimum wage had just kept pace with inflation since 1969, it would be around $10.70 an hour today instead of $7.25 (or the scandalous $2.13 for tipped workers). If it had kept up with the growth of workers' productivity, it would be $18.72. Meanwhile, if it matched the wage growth of the wealthiest 1%, it would be $28.34.
The stagnation of the minimum wage is digging a deeper and deeper hole between the Steve Forbes's of this country and the rest of us."
"Recent respected academic research has determined that raising the minimum wage does not result in job loss – even during bad economic times.
Forbes, a two-time unsuccessful Republican presidential candidate, is on the wrong side of the public in more ways than one. The Nelp-commissioned survey shows that 80% of the public – including 62% of those in Forbes' own party – supports raising the minimum wage to $10.10 an hour and adjusting it for inflation in the future, as President Obama and congressional Democrats propose.
An increase in the minimum wage is overdue. If the minimum wage had just kept pace with inflation since 1969, it would be around $10.70 an hour today instead of $7.25 (or the scandalous $2.13 for tipped workers). If it had kept up with the growth of workers' productivity, it would be $18.72. Meanwhile, if it matched the wage growth of the wealthiest 1%, it would be $28.34.
The stagnation of the minimum wage is digging a deeper and deeper hole between the Steve Forbes's of this country and the rest of us."
I Was 'Misled': Gov. Christie Plays Victim in Bridge Scandal | Common Dreams
I Was 'Misled': Gov. Christie Plays Victim in Bridge Scandal | Common Dreams
"Republican Governor Chris Christie of New Jersey claims he had no knowledge that one of his highest level staffers actively sought to conspire with a member of the state's Port Authority to close access to a highly trafficked bridge in order to serve retribution to a Democratic mayor who refused to endorse Christie during his last reelection campaign."
"Republican Governor Chris Christie of New Jersey claims he had no knowledge that one of his highest level staffers actively sought to conspire with a member of the state's Port Authority to close access to a highly trafficked bridge in order to serve retribution to a Democratic mayor who refused to endorse Christie during his last reelection campaign."
US Republicans and Their “Female Troubles” | Common Dreams
US Republicans and Their “Female Troubles” | Common Dreams
"The Republican’s problem is clear: it’s difficult to vilify women, immigrants, minorities and low-income citizens for eight years and then ask them to elect you to political office. That, in fact, is the definition of true Chutzpah."
"The Republican’s problem is clear: it’s difficult to vilify women, immigrants, minorities and low-income citizens for eight years and then ask them to elect you to political office. That, in fact, is the definition of true Chutzpah."
January 8, 2014
Fort Lee Mayor to Christie: 'Shame on You'
Fort Lee Mayor to Christie: 'Shame on You'
"Fort Lee Mayor Mark Sokolich responds to New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie and his staff following the recent revelations on the George Washington Bridge controversy."
"Fort Lee Mayor Mark Sokolich responds to New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie and his staff following the recent revelations on the George Washington Bridge controversy."
N.J. lawmaker calls for federal criminal probe into GWB scandal
N.J. lawmaker calls for federal criminal probe into GWB scandal
"An Aug. 13 email exchange among documents obtained by The Star-Ledger included a message from Deputy Chief of Staff Bridget Anne Kelly that stated: "Time for some traffic problems in Fort Lee. The 7:34 a.m. message, sent from Kelly's personal Yahoo account, was directed to David Wildstein, a former Port Authority official placed at the agency by Christie, who later ordered the bridge manager to carry out the closures."
"An Aug. 13 email exchange among documents obtained by The Star-Ledger included a message from Deputy Chief of Staff Bridget Anne Kelly that stated: "Time for some traffic problems in Fort Lee. The 7:34 a.m. message, sent from Kelly's personal Yahoo account, was directed to David Wildstein, a former Port Authority official placed at the agency by Christie, who later ordered the bridge manager to carry out the closures."
EMS Couldn't Get To At Least Four Medical Emergencies On GW Bridge
EMS Couldn't Get To At Least Four Medical Emergencies On GW Bridge
"First responders were delayed in responding to at least four medical emergencies due to the politically-motivated lane closures on the George Washington Bridge in September."
"First responders were delayed in responding to at least four medical emergencies due to the politically-motivated lane closures on the George Washington Bridge in September."
Texas man selling restaurant to save uninsured worker who has a brain tumor
Texas man selling restaurant to save uninsured worker who has a brain tumor
"A Texas business owner has put his restaurant up for sale with the hopes of saving a young employee who has a brain tumor and no insurance."
"A Texas business owner has put his restaurant up for sale with the hopes of saving a young employee who has a brain tumor and no insurance."
Fox Regular Art Laffer: The Minimum Wage Is Just The "Black Teenage Unemployment Act"
www.mediamatters.org/blog/2014/01/08/fox-regular-art-laffer-the-minimum-wage-is-just/197482
"Laffer, the so-called father of trickle-down economics, appeared on the January 8 edition of Fox News' Happening Now to discuss the possible extension of recently-expired unemployment benefits for the long-term unemployed."
"Laffer, the so-called father of trickle-down economics, appeared on the January 8 edition of Fox News' Happening Now to discuss the possible extension of recently-expired unemployment benefits for the long-term unemployed."
Top Christie aide: 'Time for some traffic problems in Fort Lee'
www.dailykos.com/story/2014/01/08/1268037/-Top-Christie-aide-Time-for-some-traffic-problems-in-Fort-Lee
"Fort Lee suffered through four days of gridlock inflicted by Wildstein—and ordered by Christie's staff—as they forced a phantom "traffic study" on the town that closed all but one lane to the George Washington bridge. People were forced to sit through four hour car delays, including children, all because Fort Lee's Democratic mayor had refused to endorse Christie."
"Fort Lee suffered through four days of gridlock inflicted by Wildstein—and ordered by Christie's staff—as they forced a phantom "traffic study" on the town that closed all but one lane to the George Washington bridge. People were forced to sit through four hour car delays, including children, all because Fort Lee's Democratic mayor had refused to endorse Christie."
Fox guest rips the minimum wage, calls it the 'Black Teenage Unemployment Act'
Fox guest rips the minimum wage, calls it the 'Black Teenage Unemployment Act'
"A Fox News guest on Wednesday said that Congress should repeal the federal minimum wage because it was serving as the "Black Teenage Unemployment Act."
"A Fox News guest on Wednesday said that Congress should repeal the federal minimum wage because it was serving as the "Black Teenage Unemployment Act."
'Time for Some Traffic Problems': Bridge Scandal Hits Christie Camp | Common Dreams
'Time for Some Traffic Problems': Bridge Scandal Hits Christie Camp | Common Dreams
"Newly released emails between New Jersey Governor Chris Christie's deputy chief of staff and the state's Port Authority reveal "vindictive" efforts by the governor's office, according to a breaking report by the New Jersey Record Wednesday morning, to create "traffic problems" as revenge against a local mayor who refused to endorse Christie's reelection campaign."
"Newly released emails between New Jersey Governor Chris Christie's deputy chief of staff and the state's Port Authority reveal "vindictive" efforts by the governor's office, according to a breaking report by the New Jersey Record Wednesday morning, to create "traffic problems" as revenge against a local mayor who refused to endorse Christie's reelection campaign."
Who, Me? 'Standup Guy' Christie Throws His Staffers Under The Bus
Who, Me? 'Standup Guy' Christie Throws His Staffers Under The Bus
"Oh, he's going for the old "plausible deniability" play. I knew he would! Let me remind you once again that Bill Stepien (Christie's campaign manager) was copied in on some of the emails. Which, knowing the way campaigns operate, leads me to suspect that he was the "plausible deniability" buffer between Christie and his staffers."
"Oh, he's going for the old "plausible deniability" play. I knew he would! Let me remind you once again that Bill Stepien (Christie's campaign manager) was copied in on some of the emails. Which, knowing the way campaigns operate, leads me to suspect that he was the "plausible deniability" buffer between Christie and his staffers."
Dear middle class: Welcome to poverty
Dear middle class: Welcome to poverty
"Energized by Ronald Reagan’s famous declaration that government is the problem, not the solution, conservatives in recent decades have sought to reduce the government’s vital role in creating opportunity and keeping hard-pressed Americans afloat. Simultaneously, they have unleashed the wild horses of deregulated capitalism, which have trampled working people. Labor unions have been crushed, wages have declined, safety nets have frayed, medical expenses have risen, and millions of Americans are now teetering on the edge of poverty."
"Energized by Ronald Reagan’s famous declaration that government is the problem, not the solution, conservatives in recent decades have sought to reduce the government’s vital role in creating opportunity and keeping hard-pressed Americans afloat. Simultaneously, they have unleashed the wild horses of deregulated capitalism, which have trampled working people. Labor unions have been crushed, wages have declined, safety nets have frayed, medical expenses have risen, and millions of Americans are now teetering on the edge of poverty."
A Bridge Too Far: Emails Link Top Christie Aide To George Washington Bridge Closure
A Bridge Too Far: Emails Link Top Christie Aide To George Washington Bridge Closure
"Private messages between Governor’s Christie’s deputy chief of staff and two of his top executives at the Port Authority reveal a vindictive effort to create “traffic problems in Fort Lee” by shutting lanes to the George Washington Bridge."
"Private messages between Governor’s Christie’s deputy chief of staff and two of his top executives at the Port Authority reveal a vindictive effort to create “traffic problems in Fort Lee” by shutting lanes to the George Washington Bridge."
House Memo: How To Simulate Caring About The Unemployed
House Memo: How To Simulate Caring About The Unemployed
"House Republican leaders sent a memo this week to the entire GOP conference with talking points designed to help rank-and-file Republicans show compassion for the unemployed."
"House Republican leaders sent a memo this week to the entire GOP conference with talking points designed to help rank-and-file Republicans show compassion for the unemployed."
These GOPers Tried (and Failed) to Kill the Benefits Bill. Here's How High Unemployment Is in Their States
www.motherjones.com/politics/2014/01/senate-republicans-vote-unemployment-extension
"37 Republicans still voted to block debate on the bill. Some of those Republicans who blocked the bill represent states with the highest unemployment rates in the country."
"37 Republicans still voted to block debate on the bill. Some of those Republicans who blocked the bill represent states with the highest unemployment rates in the country."
Racism, Sexism, And The 50-Year Campaign To Undermine The War On Poverty
www.thinkprogress.org/economy/2014/01/08/3122111/war-poverty-race-sexism/
"A timeline of conservatives' efforts to systematically undermine the programs that shaped Johnson's War on Poverty and forever changed Americans' perception about the role of government."
"A timeline of conservatives' efforts to systematically undermine the programs that shaped Johnson's War on Poverty and forever changed Americans' perception about the role of government."
Economic liberalism isn’t just popular now — it has been for years
Economic liberalism isn’t just popular <em>now</em> — it has been for years
"Yes, progressive economic reforms are strongly supported by Americans now, in the face of historic suffering. But this isn’t just a new trend. This progressive economic approach is appealing to Americans now because it has been appealing to them for a long time. The political class just hasn’t noticed."
"Yes, progressive economic reforms are strongly supported by Americans now, in the face of historic suffering. But this isn’t just a new trend. This progressive economic approach is appealing to Americans now because it has been appealing to them for a long time. The political class just hasn’t noticed."
GOP is losing on unemployment insurance — and running scared
GOP is losing on unemployment insurance — and running scared
"Newly assertive Democrats force Republicans to scramble to defend their insurance-cutting cruelty to the unemployed"
"Newly assertive Democrats force Republicans to scramble to defend their insurance-cutting cruelty to the unemployed"
January 7, 2014
House GOP leaders coach Republicans on how to show compassion for the unemployed
www.freakoutnation.com/2014/01/07/house-gop-leaders-coach-republicans-on-how-to-show-compassion-for-the-unemployed/
"House Republicans sent out a memo to Republican caucus members to coach them on how to show compassion toward the unemployed. One great idea that’s not in the memo, would be to extend unemployment benefits. Also, it might be helpful to not deem them as lazy, shiftless, entitled lowlifes."
"House Republicans sent out a memo to Republican caucus members to coach them on how to show compassion toward the unemployed. One great idea that’s not in the memo, would be to extend unemployment benefits. Also, it might be helpful to not deem them as lazy, shiftless, entitled lowlifes."
Republicans (Still) Have a ‘Female Problem’
www.inthesetimes.com/article/16070/republican_and_their_female_problems/
"In the 2014 midterms, women will be the battleground. And one party has a leg up."
"In the 2014 midterms, women will be the battleground. And one party has a leg up."
The National Memo » GOP’s Claim That Obamacare Leaves More Uninsured Than Covered Is Still Not True
The National Memo » GOP’s Claim That Obamacare Leaves More Uninsured Than Covered Is Still Not True
"As part of its ongoing strategy of attacking the Affordable Care Act, the Republican Party continues to present claims that just do not hold up."
"As part of its ongoing strategy of attacking the Affordable Care Act, the Republican Party continues to present claims that just do not hold up."
The National Memo » It Took Marco Rubio Just 24 Hours To Blow His Pivot To Poverty
The National Memo » It Took Marco Rubio Just 24 Hours To Blow His Pivot To Poverty
"Rubio joined 36 of his Republican colleagues in voting against even opening debate on extending Emergency Unemployment Compensation."
"Rubio joined 36 of his Republican colleagues in voting against even opening debate on extending Emergency Unemployment Compensation."
The National Memo » WATCH: 97 Percent Of Fox News Hosts Believe Winter Disproves Climate Change
The National Memo » WATCH: 97 Percent Of Fox News Hosts Believe Winter Disproves Climate Change
"Every winter brings Fox News indisputable evidence that fears of carbon pollution are just trumped up to justify the luxurious lifestyles of scientists."
"Every winter brings Fox News indisputable evidence that fears of carbon pollution are just trumped up to justify the luxurious lifestyles of scientists."
Goodbye, Manatees: Record Number of Deaths in 2013 | Common Dreams
Goodbye, Manatees: Record Number of Deaths in 2013 | Common Dreams
"2013 was not a good year for dolphins, and a new tally from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) shows it was a sad year for another marine mammal as well."
"2013 was not a good year for dolphins, and a new tally from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) shows it was a sad year for another marine mammal as well."
“Return To Fukushima” Airs This Week
“Return To Fukushima” Airs This Week
"The transfer of nuclear fuel from the storage pool atop the crippled Reactor Unit 4 continues. TEPCO’s website reveals no new details, except for a note stating that the leakages at Unit 3 continue. In other most recent news reports concerning Fukushima, even Japan’s constitution seems to be at stake. The government has reportedly promoted a bill that would veil news transparency and keep further events at the TEPCO plant hidden from world scrutiny. CBS discusses an investigation into an online video of Geiger counter readings five times higher than normal at a beach in San Mateo County, California. Other media outlets vacillate between reassurance and fear."
"The transfer of nuclear fuel from the storage pool atop the crippled Reactor Unit 4 continues. TEPCO’s website reveals no new details, except for a note stating that the leakages at Unit 3 continue. In other most recent news reports concerning Fukushima, even Japan’s constitution seems to be at stake. The government has reportedly promoted a bill that would veil news transparency and keep further events at the TEPCO plant hidden from world scrutiny. CBS discusses an investigation into an online video of Geiger counter readings five times higher than normal at a beach in San Mateo County, California. Other media outlets vacillate between reassurance and fear."
'Revolving Door Keeps Spinning': Former FCC Head Hired By Carlyle Group | Common Dreams
'Revolving Door Keeps Spinning': Former FCC Head Hired By Carlyle Group | Common Dreams
"Carlyle group, which has made a fortune off of investments in the defense and arms industries, owns a majority share of military contractor Booz Allen Hamilton—former employer of NSA whistleblower Edward Snowden.
Its history of politically-connected advisers includes former US president George Bush Sr, former British prime minister Sir John Major, and former prime minister of Thailand, Thaksin Shinawatra. Genachowski is not the first former FCC head to join the firm: Former FCC chairman of 8 years, William E. Kennard, joined Carlyle Group after leaving the commission in 2001."
"Carlyle group, which has made a fortune off of investments in the defense and arms industries, owns a majority share of military contractor Booz Allen Hamilton—former employer of NSA whistleblower Edward Snowden.
Its history of politically-connected advisers includes former US president George Bush Sr, former British prime minister Sir John Major, and former prime minister of Thailand, Thaksin Shinawatra. Genachowski is not the first former FCC head to join the firm: Former FCC chairman of 8 years, William E. Kennard, joined Carlyle Group after leaving the commission in 2001."
The National Memo » WARNING: Chis Christie Is The Man Who Could End Roe v. Wade
The National Memo » WARNING: Chis Christie Is The Man Who Could End Roe v. Wade
"Here’s what you need to understand about Governor Chris Christie (R-NJ): His actual record as governor is pretty terrible."
"Here’s what you need to understand about Governor Chris Christie (R-NJ): His actual record as governor is pretty terrible."
Congress Gives Poor The Big Freeze
Congress Gives Poor The Big Freeze
"As the nation endures a deep freeze, Congress is making sure poor Americans stay cold...and hungry."
"As the nation endures a deep freeze, Congress is making sure poor Americans stay cold...and hungry."
Connecticut’s Paid Sick Days Law Has Come With Few Costs And Many Benefits For Business
www.thinkprogress.org/economy/2014/01/07/3128141/connecticut-paid-sick-days-business/
"Nationally, however, there is no guarantee that workers will get paid time off for an illness or to care for a sick family member, which means 40 percent of private sector workers don’t have access to leave. The United States is the only country out of the 15 most competitive ones that doesn’t have such a guarantee."
"Nationally, however, there is no guarantee that workers will get paid time off for an illness or to care for a sick family member, which means 40 percent of private sector workers don’t have access to leave. The United States is the only country out of the 15 most competitive ones that doesn’t have such a guarantee."
NYC Speakerstakes: How Do You Solve a Problem Like Melissa? | The Nation
NYC Speakerstakes: How Do You Solve a Problem Like Melissa? | The Nation
"The second-most-important election in this municipal campaign cycle has yet to occur—that’s the vote for City Council speaker, which has come down to a contest between two councilmembers from Manhattan: Melissa Mark-Viverito, who has the support of Mayor Bill de Blasio, and Dan Garodnick, who has the support of the press."
"The second-most-important election in this municipal campaign cycle has yet to occur—that’s the vote for City Council speaker, which has come down to a contest between two councilmembers from Manhattan: Melissa Mark-Viverito, who has the support of Mayor Bill de Blasio, and Dan Garodnick, who has the support of the press."
Democrats Defeat Republican Obstruction and Move Unemployment Extension Forward 60-37
www.politicususa.com/2014/01/07/democrats-defeat-republican-obstruction-move-unemployment-extension-60-37.html
"Democrats have shocked the political world by defeating Republican obstruction and moving on to a final vote on extending unemployment benefits by a margin of 60-37.
All Democrats voted for the bill, and were joined by Republicans co-sponsor of the bill Dean Heller, Susan Collins, Kelly Ayotte, Rob Portman, Ben Coats, and Lisa Murkowski. These 6 Republicans deserve praise for doing what is right for their constituents who are out there looking every single day, but are struggling to find a job."
"Democrats have shocked the political world by defeating Republican obstruction and moving on to a final vote on extending unemployment benefits by a margin of 60-37.
All Democrats voted for the bill, and were joined by Republicans co-sponsor of the bill Dean Heller, Susan Collins, Kelly Ayotte, Rob Portman, Ben Coats, and Lisa Murkowski. These 6 Republicans deserve praise for doing what is right for their constituents who are out there looking every single day, but are struggling to find a job."
Tycoon’s hostage-taking strangles pensions: Boeing workers cave on retirement ransom
Tycoon’s hostage-taking strangles pensions: Boeing workers cave on retirement ransom
"After government drops an investigation amid a Tea Party firestorm, giant contractor keeps squeezing its employees"
"After government drops an investigation amid a Tea Party firestorm, giant contractor keeps squeezing its employees"
Marijuana Shops Rationing to Avoid Shortages
Marijuana Shops Rationing to Avoid Shortages
"Marijuana shops in Colorado struggle to keep up with the high demand after legalization"
"Marijuana shops in Colorado struggle to keep up with the high demand after legalization"
Analyst Downgrades Apple In Move to Teach Wall Street New Word: Moral. Outrage Ensues. | Common Dreams
Analyst Downgrades Apple In Move to Teach Wall Street New Word: Moral. Outrage Ensues. | Common Dreams
"Apparently for the first time, an analyst has downgraded - or in Wall-Street-speak, blacklisted - several big companies on moral and ethical grounds, moving their stock from a "hold" to "sell" recommendation based on the "obscene" way the companies are run."
"Apparently for the first time, an analyst has downgraded - or in Wall-Street-speak, blacklisted - several big companies on moral and ethical grounds, moving their stock from a "hold" to "sell" recommendation based on the "obscene" way the companies are run."
Impatient cops allegedly shoot mentally ill NC teen: 'We don't have time for this'
Impatient cops allegedly shoot mentally ill NC teen: 'We don't have time for this'
"A North Carolina detective is on leave after shooting a mentally ill teen who had reportedly already been subdued with a Taser."
"A North Carolina detective is on leave after shooting a mentally ill teen who had reportedly already been subdued with a Taser."
Inside the Right-Wing Love Affair with Conspiracy Theories
www.alternet.org/tea-party-and-right/another-big-time-right-wing-conspiracy-theory-bites-dust-why-conservatives
"the right-wing echo chamber feeds off of paranoid stories that have no basis in reality."
"the right-wing echo chamber feeds off of paranoid stories that have no basis in reality."
January 6, 2014
Court Says LA Police Warrantless Access Of Hotel Records Is 'Unconstitutional'
Court Says LA Police Warrantless Access Of Hotel Records Is 'Unconstitutional'
"A little more good news has arrived on the Fourth Amendment front, but if the recent past is any indication of what the future holds, an opposing decision is lurking just around the corner."
"A little more good news has arrived on the Fourth Amendment front, but if the recent past is any indication of what the future holds, an opposing decision is lurking just around the corner."
Karl Rove Calls Push to Raise Minimum Wage an 'Obamacare Distraction'
Karl Rove Calls Push to Raise Minimum Wage an 'Obamacare Distraction'
"Karl Rove wants the viewers at Fox to believe 30 million workers "isn't a lot"."
"Karl Rove wants the viewers at Fox to believe 30 million workers "isn't a lot"."
Outrageous HSBC Settlement Proves the Drug War is a Joke
www.rollingstone.com/politics/blogs/taibblog/outrageous-hsbc-settlement-proves-the-drug-war-is-a-joke-20121213
"Despite the fact that HSBC admitted to laundering billions of dollars for Colombian and Mexican drug cartels (among others) and violating a host of important banking laws (from the Bank Secrecy Act to the Trading With the Enemy Act), Breuer and his Justice Department elected not to pursue criminal prosecutions of the bank, opting instead for a "record" financial settlement of $1.9 billion, which as one analyst noted is about five weeks of income for the bank."
"Despite the fact that HSBC admitted to laundering billions of dollars for Colombian and Mexican drug cartels (among others) and violating a host of important banking laws (from the Bank Secrecy Act to the Trading With the Enemy Act), Breuer and his Justice Department elected not to pursue criminal prosecutions of the bank, opting instead for a "record" financial settlement of $1.9 billion, which as one analyst noted is about five weeks of income for the bank."
Second American City Ends Chronic Homelessness Among Veterans
www.thinkprogress.org/economy/2014/01/06/3124991/salt-lake-city-homelessness/
"Salt Lake City, Utah has taken the title of being the second city in the United States to end chronic homelessness among military veterans, Mayor Ralph Becker (D) told MSNBC’s Melissa Harris-Perry." Both mayors also happen to be Democrats.
"Salt Lake City, Utah has taken the title of being the second city in the United States to end chronic homelessness among military veterans, Mayor Ralph Becker (D) told MSNBC’s Melissa Harris-Perry." Both mayors also happen to be Democrats.
Senators From States With the Highest Unemployment Poised to Kill Unemployment Insurance Bill | The Nation
Senators From States With the Highest Unemployment Poised to Kill Unemployment Insurance Bill | The Nation
"In eight Southern states—Florida, Georgia, Mississippi, Alabama, South Carolina, North Carolina, Tennessee and Kentucky—the long-term jobless rate is quite high compared to much of the rest of the country. Of the sixteen senators representing those states, fourteen are Republicans (with one Democrat in both North Carolina and Florida.)
That means not only higher numbers of constituents being hurt by the benefit lapse, but a bigger hit to the state economy"
"In eight Southern states—Florida, Georgia, Mississippi, Alabama, South Carolina, North Carolina, Tennessee and Kentucky—the long-term jobless rate is quite high compared to much of the rest of the country. Of the sixteen senators representing those states, fourteen are Republicans (with one Democrat in both North Carolina and Florida.)
That means not only higher numbers of constituents being hurt by the benefit lapse, but a bigger hit to the state economy"
Colorado River Lowest In 1,300 Years; Climate Deniers Keep It Up (VIDEO)
www.addictinginfo.org/2014/01/06/colorado-river-running-dry/
"There’s a lesson in the news for right-wingers today. (It’s a fairly safe bet they’ll miss it though.) It involves the Colorado River."
"There’s a lesson in the news for right-wingers today. (It’s a fairly safe bet they’ll miss it though.) It involves the Colorado River."
Darth Vader Voters in Wyoming Lose Candidate as Liz Cheney Quits Senate Run
Darth Vader Voters in Wyoming Lose Candidate as Liz Cheney Quits Senate Run
"Pity the pro-war (with anyone who has oil or won't give sweetheart contracts to Halliburton), anti gay marriage Darth Vader voter in Wyoming. Where are they going to turn now that Liz Cheney has dropped her senate bid?"
"Pity the pro-war (with anyone who has oil or won't give sweetheart contracts to Halliburton), anti gay marriage Darth Vader voter in Wyoming. Where are they going to turn now that Liz Cheney has dropped her senate bid?"
Sea Shepherd Captures Video of 'Illegal' Japanese Whale Slaughter | Common Dreams
Sea Shepherd Captures Video of 'Illegal' Japanese Whale Slaughter | Common Dreams
"Anti-whaling activists the Sea Shepherd published video evidence Sunday of Japanese whalers slaughtering protected whale species in a marine preservation in the Southern Ocean."
"Anti-whaling activists the Sea Shepherd published video evidence Sunday of Japanese whalers slaughtering protected whale species in a marine preservation in the Southern Ocean."
Investigation Confirms Widespread Fears about Fracking | Common Dreams
Investigation Confirms Widespread Fears about Fracking | Common Dreams
"The Associated Press has confirmed what residents have long known and the oil and gas industries have sought to hide: the controversial process of hydraulic fracturing, as well as conventional oil and gas drilling, is polluting and contaminating well drinking water supplies."
"The Associated Press has confirmed what residents have long known and the oil and gas industries have sought to hide: the controversial process of hydraulic fracturing, as well as conventional oil and gas drilling, is polluting and contaminating well drinking water supplies."
How Right-Wing Radicals -- From Nixon to Paul Ryan -- Have Deceived America
www.alternet.org/how-right-wing-radicals-nixon-paul-ryan-have-deceived-america?page=0%2C0
"Without this sort of ideological cover, there would be no mistaking the extremism, recklessness and heartlessness of conservative leaders from Nixon to Reagan to Gingrich to Bush to Ryan, Christie and all the rest today. The U.S. already has the smallest, least effective welfare state of any advanced industrial nation in the West, as conservatives continue mobilizing to dismantle it completely. They have their eye on a Dickensian society, and they think that it looks pretty good. Martin Luther King had his dream, and they’ve got theirs: separate, and extremely unequal."
"Without this sort of ideological cover, there would be no mistaking the extremism, recklessness and heartlessness of conservative leaders from Nixon to Reagan to Gingrich to Bush to Ryan, Christie and all the rest today. The U.S. already has the smallest, least effective welfare state of any advanced industrial nation in the West, as conservatives continue mobilizing to dismantle it completely. They have their eye on a Dickensian society, and they think that it looks pretty good. Martin Luther King had his dream, and they’ve got theirs: separate, and extremely unequal."
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