January 17, 2014
Here’s The Latest Red State That’s Trying To Kill Obamacare
www.addictinginfo.org/2014/01/17/affordable-care-act-nullification-tennessee/
"Tennessee has put forth yet another measure to outlaw the Affordable Care Act (ACA) in the state. This one not only bars the state from setting up an exchange, it also bars government agencies, and possibly their contractors, from providing health insurance to their workers through healthcare.gov. In fact, it would make it illegal for the university system, local and county governments, and any other public agency to participate in the ACA in any way."
"Tennessee has put forth yet another measure to outlaw the Affordable Care Act (ACA) in the state. This one not only bars the state from setting up an exchange, it also bars government agencies, and possibly their contractors, from providing health insurance to their workers through healthcare.gov. In fact, it would make it illegal for the university system, local and county governments, and any other public agency to participate in the ACA in any way."
Brazen Enough to Gut Public Education, Governor Cowers as Students Protest | Common Dreams
Brazen Enough to Gut Public Education, Governor Cowers as Students Protest | Common Dreams
"Pennsylvania Republican Governor Tom Corbett was slated Friday to make his first ever appearance in a Philadelphia public school since he took the state's helm in 2011.
Yet when he found out he would be met with mass protests from the students and workers whose public education system has been gutted under his watch, he backed out of the event, instead "honoring" Central High School for its top performance from his office in downtown Philadelphia."
"Pennsylvania Republican Governor Tom Corbett was slated Friday to make his first ever appearance in a Philadelphia public school since he took the state's helm in 2011.
Yet when he found out he would be met with mass protests from the students and workers whose public education system has been gutted under his watch, he backed out of the event, instead "honoring" Central High School for its top performance from his office in downtown Philadelphia."
House conservatives fed up with conservative caucus, form even more conservative caucus
House conservatives fed up with conservative caucus, form even more conservative caucus
"The Liberty Caucus is a popular new far-right alternative to the far-right Republican Study Committee"
"The Liberty Caucus is a popular new far-right alternative to the far-right Republican Study Committee"
Taxpayer-funded Texas schools blame world wars on evolution and lack of religion
www.rawstory.com/rs/2014/01/17/taxpayer-funded-texas-schools-blame-world-wars-on-evolution-and-lack-of-religion/
"Responsive Education Solutions has 17,000 students, more than 65 schools, and receives $82 million in public funding annually."
"Responsive Education Solutions has 17,000 students, more than 65 schools, and receives $82 million in public funding annually."
Week After West Virginia Chemical Spill, Company Files for Bankruptcy | Common Dreams
Week After West Virginia Chemical Spill, Company Files for Bankruptcy | Common Dreams
"Freedom Industries, the company behind the chemical leak last week in West Virginia's Elk River, filed for bankruptcy on Friday, the Charleston Gazette reports."
"Freedom Industries, the company behind the chemical leak last week in West Virginia's Elk River, filed for bankruptcy on Friday, the Charleston Gazette reports."
Harry Reid, ‘We waste a lot of time and law enforcement going after guys smoking marijuana.’
www.politicususa.com/2014/01/17/harry-reid-we-waste-lot-time-law-enforcement-guys-smoking-marijuana.html
"Even devout Mormon, Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid has changed his position and is saying that we need to take a closer look at marijuana."
"Even devout Mormon, Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid has changed his position and is saying that we need to take a closer look at marijuana."
GOP Fundraiser Says Christie 'As A Person, Is Horrific'
www.talkingpointsmemo.com/livewire/gop-fundraiser-says-christie-as-a-person-is-horrific
"Mitt Romney's former finance chairman definitely isn't attending an upcoming fundraiser for New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie (R).
"The guy, as a person, is horrific," Brian Ballard, a lobbyist and former finance chairman for Mitt Romney said, according to the Miami Herald."
"Mitt Romney's former finance chairman definitely isn't attending an upcoming fundraiser for New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie (R).
"The guy, as a person, is horrific," Brian Ballard, a lobbyist and former finance chairman for Mitt Romney said, according to the Miami Herald."
Elisabeth Hasselbeck: Are feminists and wussy men a threat to national security?
Elisabeth Hasselbeck: Are feminists and wussy men a threat to national security?
"The “war on men” thing is a Fox News favorite, so the fact that “Fox & Friends” would invite a misogynist on air to spout off nonsense isn’t at all surprising."
"The “war on men” thing is a Fox News favorite, so the fact that “Fox & Friends” would invite a misogynist on air to spout off nonsense isn’t at all surprising."
Bernie Sanders rips Walmart: Why should taxpayers subsidize ‘starvation wages’?
www.rawstory.com/rs/2014/01/17/bernie-sanders-rips-walmart-why-should-taxpayers-subsidize-starvation-wages/
"Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT) demanded that a panel of experts justify why America’s shrinking middle class should continue to subsidize the nation’s wealthiest family in a heated exchange Thursday during a congressional panel."
"Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT) demanded that a panel of experts justify why America’s shrinking middle class should continue to subsidize the nation’s wealthiest family in a heated exchange Thursday during a congressional panel."
Elizabeth Warren Absolutely Hammers Right-Wing Partisan Games and Blatant Obstruction
www.forwardprogressives.com/elizabeth-warren-absolutely-hammers-right-wing-partisan-games-and-blatant-obstruction/
"And she’s absolutely right. All we’ve seen since 2010 (and even before that) is Republicans try to block and oppose anything and everything proposed by President Obama and Democrats.
Their blatant obstruction has gotten so bad that many liberals have joked that if President Obama came out in favor of oxygen, Republicans would suffocate."
"And she’s absolutely right. All we’ve seen since 2010 (and even before that) is Republicans try to block and oppose anything and everything proposed by President Obama and Democrats.
Their blatant obstruction has gotten so bad that many liberals have joked that if President Obama came out in favor of oxygen, Republicans would suffocate."
Fox Doesn't Believe In Income Inequality But Still Blames Obama For It
www.mediamatters.org/blog/2014/01/16/fox-doesnt-believe-in-income-inequality-but-sti/197621
"Fox News personalities have repeatedly attempted to downplay income inequality, claiming that it doesn't exist, that it is unfixable, or that it's a distraction from other issues."
"Fox News personalities have repeatedly attempted to downplay income inequality, claiming that it doesn't exist, that it is unfixable, or that it's a distraction from other issues."
New Mayor Of New York City’s First Move Is To Give Nearly Every Worker Paid Sick Days
www.thinkprogress.org/economy/2014/01/17/3177921/blasio-paid-sick-leave/
"But it’s not all good news. Conservative-leaning states including Michigan and Mississippi, led by the conservative legislation-crafting group the American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC), are creating so-called “pre-emption” laws that limit the ability of a given municipality to pass its own sick leave legislation.
Sick leave laws have proven to been good for both business and public health. Where paid sick leave is lacking, low-income people are most likely to be effected. Eighty percent of low-income workers can’t take a paid day off if they or their families get sick."
"But it’s not all good news. Conservative-leaning states including Michigan and Mississippi, led by the conservative legislation-crafting group the American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC), are creating so-called “pre-emption” laws that limit the ability of a given municipality to pass its own sick leave legislation.
Sick leave laws have proven to been good for both business and public health. Where paid sick leave is lacking, low-income people are most likely to be effected. Eighty percent of low-income workers can’t take a paid day off if they or their families get sick."
WSJ Hides Conflict Of Interest In Campbell Brown's Latest Teacher Union Smear
www.mediamatters.org/blog/2014/01/17/wsj-hides-conflict-of-interest-in-campbell-brow/197645
"The Wall Street Journal published an op-ed by former CNN anchor Campbell Brown that misleadingly accused teacher unions of "making it more difficult to protect children from molesters" and failed to disclose that Brown's husband is a board member of an anti-teacher union organization."
"The Wall Street Journal published an op-ed by former CNN anchor Campbell Brown that misleadingly accused teacher unions of "making it more difficult to protect children from molesters" and failed to disclose that Brown's husband is a board member of an anti-teacher union organization."
Ted Cruz, suddenly the GOP’s biggest loser
Ted Cruz, suddenly the GOP’s biggest loser
"Ted Cruz may still run for president, but in reality, he’s mainly in the running to become Jim DeMint, the former senator and current Heritage Foundation head – a right-wing firebrand who makes enemies out of even some ideological friends, establishes no Senate legislative legacy, and moves on to a lucrative, flattering wingnut welfare sinecure."
"Ted Cruz may still run for president, but in reality, he’s mainly in the running to become Jim DeMint, the former senator and current Heritage Foundation head – a right-wing firebrand who makes enemies out of even some ideological friends, establishes no Senate legislative legacy, and moves on to a lucrative, flattering wingnut welfare sinecure."
Local Chef Takes North Pacific Seafood Off Menu
www.keyt.com/news/local-chef-takes-north-pacific-seafood-off-menu/-/17671600/23950972/-/i0q4a0/-/index.html
"Chef Robert Perez says Fukushima disaster tainted California seafood"
"Chef Robert Perez says Fukushima disaster tainted California seafood"
Dramatically Reduce Emissions Now or It Will Be Too Late: Leaked Climate Report | Common Dreams
Dramatically Reduce Emissions Now or It Will Be Too Late: Leaked Climate Report | Common Dreams
"Hopes to reduce the worst impacts of climate change around the globe will likely be lost if the international community doesn't immediately switch to clean energy and significantly reduce carbon emissions, according to a leaked draft of a report being conducted by UN scientists at the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change."
"Hopes to reduce the worst impacts of climate change around the globe will likely be lost if the international community doesn't immediately switch to clean energy and significantly reduce carbon emissions, according to a leaked draft of a report being conducted by UN scientists at the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change."
Alabama's Corrupt Politics Strand Blogger In Jail -- Indefinitely
Alabama's Corrupt Politics Strand Blogger In Jail -- Indefinitely
"Blogging in Alabama can be hazardous to your health if you're not a Republican"
"Blogging in Alabama can be hazardous to your health if you're not a Republican"
Subpoenas continue to flow to Chris Christie insiders in GWB investigation
Subpoenas continue to flow to Chris Christie insiders in GWB investigation
"The list of high-level Port Authority and Christie administration officials who received subpoenas from newly formed state Assembly panel investigating the George Washington Bridge scandal includes the governor's incoming chief of staff and his communications director, according to two sources close to the investigation."
"The list of high-level Port Authority and Christie administration officials who received subpoenas from newly formed state Assembly panel investigating the George Washington Bridge scandal includes the governor's incoming chief of staff and his communications director, according to two sources close to the investigation."
Gov. Chris Christie's Hiring Of High Powered Defense Attorney Raises New Questions
Gov. Chris Christie's Hiring Of High Powered Defense Attorney Raises New Questions
"On the day that the New Jersey Assembly voted to investigate the Bridgegate scandal, Gov. Chris Christie hired a high powered defense attorney to supposedly review and assist their investigation. Do you really believe that?"
"On the day that the New Jersey Assembly voted to investigate the Bridgegate scandal, Gov. Chris Christie hired a high powered defense attorney to supposedly review and assist their investigation. Do you really believe that?"
How Screwing Your Workers Gets You Rated as Top 100 Places to Work
www.alternet.org/investigations/one-company-really-shouldnt-be-list-top-100-companies-work
"Darden Restaurants, which owns chains like Red Lobster, bought its way into a sleazy rankings list."
"Darden Restaurants, which owns chains like Red Lobster, bought its way into a sleazy rankings list."
What Most People Think They Know About Marijuana Is Unscientific, Paranoid and Even Racist Propaganda
www.alternet.org/drugs/dont-believe-marijuana-hype
"Everyone thinks they know something about drugs—whether from personal experience or from 8th grade prevention classes or simply because the media presents so many stories about them. Unfortunately, most of what people think they know is inaccurate, and comes from years of government war-on-drugs propaganda, with little understanding of its medical and historical context."
"Everyone thinks they know something about drugs—whether from personal experience or from 8th grade prevention classes or simply because the media presents so many stories about them. Unfortunately, most of what people think they know is inaccurate, and comes from years of government war-on-drugs propaganda, with little understanding of its medical and historical context."
Bipartisan Senate Report on Benghazi Refutes Idiotic Fox News Claims
Bipartisan Senate Report on Benghazi Refutes Idiotic Fox News Claims
"Conservatives will never let their pet phony scandal rest. Benghazi will always be close to their lips no matter what the situation is."
"Conservatives will never let their pet phony scandal rest. Benghazi will always be close to their lips no matter what the situation is."
Humanity Is Becoming Increasingly Less Violent, with One Exception -- Religious Violence
www.alternet.org/belief/humanity-becoming-increasingly-less-violent-one-exception-religious-violence
"Studies demonstrate the world is becoming less violent, and that human warfare is on the decline. There is one aspect of the human existence, however, that continues to ignite humans to commit violence and atrocities against fellow humans. A major new study published by the Pew Research Center shows that religious hostilities reached a 6-year high in 2012."
"Studies demonstrate the world is becoming less violent, and that human warfare is on the decline. There is one aspect of the human existence, however, that continues to ignite humans to commit violence and atrocities against fellow humans. A major new study published by the Pew Research Center shows that religious hostilities reached a 6-year high in 2012."
CNN: Port Authority Job Was Created For Christie's Friend
CNN: Port Authority Job Was Created For Christie's Friend
"Port Authority officials were told to create a new executive job for David Wildstein, the governor's friend."
"Port Authority officials were told to create a new executive job for David Wildstein, the governor's friend."
Noah Took a Baby Dinosaur on the Ark? 5 Extremist Christian "Science" Teachings
www.alternet.org/noah-took-baby-dinosaur-ark-5-extremist-christian-science-teachings
"In practice, students are taught gross distortions and misrepresentations of mainstream science, like these 33 bizarre multiple choice questions from the ACE coursework. Here's a look at the some of the blatant mistruths ACE teaches."
"In practice, students are taught gross distortions and misrepresentations of mainstream science, like these 33 bizarre multiple choice questions from the ACE coursework. Here's a look at the some of the blatant mistruths ACE teaches."
New Koch-Linked Political Firm Aims to Handpick "Electable" Candidates
www.motherjones.com/politics/2014/01/koch-brothers-candidate-training-recruiting-aegis-strategic
"A new political consulting firm with deep ties to the Koch brothers has quietly set up shop in Arlington, Virginia. Its mission: to prevent future Todd Akins and Richard Mourdocks from tanking the Republican Party's electoral prospects."
"A new political consulting firm with deep ties to the Koch brothers has quietly set up shop in Arlington, Virginia. Its mission: to prevent future Todd Akins and Richard Mourdocks from tanking the Republican Party's electoral prospects."
Fox News Host Whines That Americans Don’t Know History, Then Proves She Doesn’t Know History
www.forwardprogressives.com/fox-news-host-whines-that-americans-dont-know-history-then-proves-she-doesnt-know-history/
"Again, if you’re going to be so bold as to judge others for their lack of knowledge about a particular issue, be sure you know what the heck you’re talking about."
"Again, if you’re going to be so bold as to judge others for their lack of knowledge about a particular issue, be sure you know what the heck you’re talking about."
8 Phony GOP Solutions for Poverty That Will Only Bring More Economic Pain
www.alternet.org/economy/8-phony-gop-solutions-poverty-will-only-bring-more-economic-pain
"Republicans are whipping out "compassionate conservatism" again, in an attempt to rebrand themselves as something other than the harsh, anti-poor, anti-women, anti-minority, anti-gay, anti-everything wingnuts they have been showing us they are. It's a strategy Republicans default to when they've taken things to such an extreme that the country is revolted. And here we are with Republicans pretending to have proposals geared toward fighting poverty instead of just boosting the fortunes of those who already have huge fortunes."
"Republicans are whipping out "compassionate conservatism" again, in an attempt to rebrand themselves as something other than the harsh, anti-poor, anti-women, anti-minority, anti-gay, anti-everything wingnuts they have been showing us they are. It's a strategy Republicans default to when they've taken things to such an extreme that the country is revolted. And here we are with Republicans pretending to have proposals geared toward fighting poverty instead of just boosting the fortunes of those who already have huge fortunes."
January 16, 2014
CDC: Pregnant Women in West Virginia Should Not Drink Contaminated Tap Water | The Nation
CDC: Pregnant Women in West Virginia Should Not Drink Contaminated Tap Water | The Nation
"As officials clear more West Virginians to drink their tap water, the Center For Disease Control advised pregnant women living near the site of a chemical spill to continue using bottled water."
"As officials clear more West Virginians to drink their tap water, the Center For Disease Control advised pregnant women living near the site of a chemical spill to continue using bottled water."
What if Antibiotics no Longer Work? | Common Dreams
What if Antibiotics no Longer Work? | Common Dreams
"Have you had your daily minimum requirement of triclosan today? How about your dosage of triclocarban?"
"Have you had your daily minimum requirement of triclosan today? How about your dosage of triclocarban?"
Tea Party Candidate Puts Out Most Bizarre Political Ad Ever
Tea Party Candidate Puts Out Most Bizarre Political Ad Ever
"Tim Donnelly is definitely one of California's fringier lawmakers"
"Tim Donnelly is definitely one of California's fringier lawmakers"
Millionaire Former Heinz CEO Helps Cavuto Spread Lies About Raising Minimum Wage
Millionaire Former Heinz CEO Helps Cavuto Spread Lies About Raising Minimum Wage
"USA Today's "$212 million man" doesn't think we should pay workers a living wage."
"USA Today's "$212 million man" doesn't think we should pay workers a living wage."
Look Who The ‘Small Government’ GOP Wants The IRS To Audit Now
www.addictinginfo.org/2014/01/16/gop-hr7-irs-bully-rape-victims/
"Women who are raped deserve to be protected. Allowing the IRS to audit rape victims is a serious violation of privacy that Republicans are using as a sleazy way to keep women from having an abortion. This bill is coming from a political group that has railed against the IRS for decades. Now they want to abuse the IRS and use it to torment women. This isn’t just a bad bill, it’s a real scandal that the American people should be aware of."
"Women who are raped deserve to be protected. Allowing the IRS to audit rape victims is a serious violation of privacy that Republicans are using as a sleazy way to keep women from having an abortion. This bill is coming from a political group that has railed against the IRS for decades. Now they want to abuse the IRS and use it to torment women. This isn’t just a bad bill, it’s a real scandal that the American people should be aware of."
Is Congress Guilty of Torture?
Is Congress Guilty of Torture?
"But Republicans are blocking Obama administration attempts to shutter Gitmo, by passing legislation that prohibits the government from using federal dollars to close down the prison."
"But Republicans are blocking Obama administration attempts to shutter Gitmo, by passing legislation that prohibits the government from using federal dollars to close down the prison."
Dr. King’s Nightmare | Common Dreams
Dr. King’s Nightmare | Common Dreams
"The wealth possessed by our nation's 400 richest billionaires is equal to the collective net worth of all African-American households."
"The wealth possessed by our nation's 400 richest billionaires is equal to the collective net worth of all African-American households."
Four Major Insurers Accused Of Discriminating Against Women In Long-Term Care Plans
www.thinkprogress.org/health/2014/01/16/3176091/major-insurers-discriminate-gender-long-term-care/
"The long-term care industry has long maintained that Obamacare’s rules barring insurers from charging women more for their health care don’t apply to them. Early last year, the nation’s largest long-term care insurer announced that it be charging women between 20 and 40 percent more in monthly premiums.
Industry experts predicted the practice would become a trend — a prediction that has proven true. NWLC’s complaints are targeting Genworth Financial, John Hancock, Transamerica, and Mutual of Omaha."
"The long-term care industry has long maintained that Obamacare’s rules barring insurers from charging women more for their health care don’t apply to them. Early last year, the nation’s largest long-term care insurer announced that it be charging women between 20 and 40 percent more in monthly premiums.
Industry experts predicted the practice would become a trend — a prediction that has proven true. NWLC’s complaints are targeting Genworth Financial, John Hancock, Transamerica, and Mutual of Omaha."
Leading Climate Deniers Are Part of Secretive 'Society' | The Progressive
Leading Climate Deniers Are Part of Secretive 'Society' | The Progressive
"Mont Pelerin Society tied to the Koch brothers and dozens of anti-science groups."
"Mont Pelerin Society tied to the Koch brothers and dozens of anti-science groups."
California Braces For Major Drought
California Braces For Major Drought
"this is going to impact agriculture and the resulting cost of food nationwide. Not only in direct costs of food and livestock, with smaller yields and higher farming costs, but also in related industries: textiles, wood and paper products, restaurants, grocery stores and even liquor, since California's wine industry is also being impacted. (Sonoma County is now trying to make the industry entirely sustainable, on a related note), as well as employment in all of those industries being threatened."
"this is going to impact agriculture and the resulting cost of food nationwide. Not only in direct costs of food and livestock, with smaller yields and higher farming costs, but also in related industries: textiles, wood and paper products, restaurants, grocery stores and even liquor, since California's wine industry is also being impacted. (Sonoma County is now trying to make the industry entirely sustainable, on a related note), as well as employment in all of those industries being threatened."
Leaked Docs Expose Walmart's Guides to Stomp Out Worker Mobilization | Common Dreams
Leaked Docs Expose Walmart's Guides to Stomp Out Worker Mobilization | Common Dreams
"Leaked internal documents reveal Walmart's attempts to stop workers from mobilizing for fair wages and decent workplace conditions."
"Leaked internal documents reveal Walmart's attempts to stop workers from mobilizing for fair wages and decent workplace conditions."
Here’s Walmart’s Internal Guide To Fighting Unions And Monitoring Workers
www.thinkprogress.org/economy/2014/01/16/3171251/walmart-leaked-powerpoint-unions/
"Walmart workers currently make an average of $8.81 per hour, more than 25 percent less than at similar retailers, and the majority make less than $25,000. Taxpayers subsidize those low wages and poor benefits. A single 300-worker Walmart store accounts for between $900,000 and $1.7 million per year in public benefits costs for its workers.
By contrast, one of the company’s primary competitors, Costco, pays an average wage of $21.96 and enrolls nearly all of its workers in benefits programs. It reported a quarterly profit of $459 million last spring and of $617 million last summer."
"Walmart workers currently make an average of $8.81 per hour, more than 25 percent less than at similar retailers, and the majority make less than $25,000. Taxpayers subsidize those low wages and poor benefits. A single 300-worker Walmart store accounts for between $900,000 and $1.7 million per year in public benefits costs for its workers.
By contrast, one of the company’s primary competitors, Costco, pays an average wage of $21.96 and enrolls nearly all of its workers in benefits programs. It reported a quarterly profit of $459 million last spring and of $617 million last summer."
Christie’s Jam Is Also the GOP’s | The Nation
Christie’s Jam Is Also the GOP’s | The Nation
"He’s not the only Republican governor who has abused his office to destroy political enemies."
"He’s not the only Republican governor who has abused his office to destroy political enemies."
New Sanctions on Iran Could Torpedo Negotiations | The Nation
New Sanctions on Iran Could Torpedo Negotiations | The Nation
"The bill now being pushed by the neocons and AIPAC could destroy the most promising developments in a decade."
"The bill now being pushed by the neocons and AIPAC could destroy the most promising developments in a decade."
US Intel Veterans Honor Pvt. Manning
www.consortiumnews.com/2014/01/16/us-intel-veterans-honor-pvt-manning/
"Sam Adams Associates for Integrity in Intelligence was established in 2002 by colleagues and admirers of the late CIA intelligence analyst Sam Adams to recognize those who uphold his example as a model for those in intelligence who would aspire to the courage to speak truth to power. In honoring Adams’s memory, SAAII confers an award each year to someone in intelligence or related work who exemplifies Sam Adam’s courage, persistence, and devotion to truth — no matter the consequences."
"Sam Adams Associates for Integrity in Intelligence was established in 2002 by colleagues and admirers of the late CIA intelligence analyst Sam Adams to recognize those who uphold his example as a model for those in intelligence who would aspire to the courage to speak truth to power. In honoring Adams’s memory, SAAII confers an award each year to someone in intelligence or related work who exemplifies Sam Adam’s courage, persistence, and devotion to truth — no matter the consequences."
'Largest in US History': NYPD to Pay $18 Million to Mistreated RNC Protesters | Common Dreams
'Largest in US History': NYPD to Pay $18 Million to Mistreated RNC Protesters | Common Dreams
"It is reportedly the largest civil rights settlement for mass arrests in U.S. history.
Yet, some protesters say the city of New York's agreement to pay $18 million to settle civil rights litigation from hundreds of protesters at the 2004 Republican National Convention is bittersweet."
"It is reportedly the largest civil rights settlement for mass arrests in U.S. history.
Yet, some protesters say the city of New York's agreement to pay $18 million to settle civil rights litigation from hundreds of protesters at the 2004 Republican National Convention is bittersweet."
A $15 Minimum Wage In Los Angeles Could Create 64,700 Jobs
www.thinkprogress.org/economy/2014/01/16/3171441/15-minimum-wage-jobs/
"Raising the minimum wage to $15 an hour in Los Angeles could stimulate the city’s economy enough to create 64,700 jobs, according to a study from the Economic Roundtable released by the Los Angeles County Federation of Labor."
"Raising the minimum wage to $15 an hour in Los Angeles could stimulate the city’s economy enough to create 64,700 jobs, according to a study from the Economic Roundtable released by the Los Angeles County Federation of Labor."
Progressives Shaking Things Up in the South: Moral Monday Georgia and Truthful Tuesday South Carolina Commence
www.alternet.org/activism/progressives-shaking-things-south-moral-monday-georgia-and-truthful-tuesday-south-carolina
"The Moral Monday Georgia kickoff was followed Tuesday by a statehouse rally in South Carolina dubbed Truthful Tuesday. Franzen says that members of the Truthful Tuesday coalition were part of a convergence of organizers from several states, including Georgia, that recently met in North Carolina to discuss building the moral movement.
As Georgia and South Carolina’s campaigns get off the ground, Rev. William Barber is embarking on a statewide tour in North Carolina to drum up support for an annual people’s assembly in Raleigh. For the past seven years, citizens from across the state have flocked to the capital on the second Saturday of February, building the momentum that led to the Moral Monday protests."
"The Moral Monday Georgia kickoff was followed Tuesday by a statehouse rally in South Carolina dubbed Truthful Tuesday. Franzen says that members of the Truthful Tuesday coalition were part of a convergence of organizers from several states, including Georgia, that recently met in North Carolina to discuss building the moral movement.
As Georgia and South Carolina’s campaigns get off the ground, Rev. William Barber is embarking on a statewide tour in North Carolina to drum up support for an annual people’s assembly in Raleigh. For the past seven years, citizens from across the state have flocked to the capital on the second Saturday of February, building the momentum that led to the Moral Monday protests."
Trouble for Wal-Mart: Mega-giant accused by U.S. government of illegally firing workers across the country
Trouble for Wal-Mart: Mega-giant accused by U.S. government of illegally firing workers across the country
"Wal-Mart illegally disciplined, threatened, and surveilled workers – including unlawfully firing nineteen people – according to a complaint released by the National Labor Relations Board Wednesday afternoon."
"Wal-Mart illegally disciplined, threatened, and surveilled workers – including unlawfully firing nineteen people – according to a complaint released by the National Labor Relations Board Wednesday afternoon."
Pregnant Women Warned Not To Drink Water 48 Hours After West Virginia Told Residents It Was Safe
www.thinkprogress.org/climate/2014/01/16/3171231/west-virginia-water-pregnant/
"More than two days after West Virginia American Water began lifting the ban on water use that had impacted 300,000 West Virginians, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) finally broke its silence and advised pregnant women not to drink the water."
"More than two days after West Virginia American Water began lifting the ban on water use that had impacted 300,000 West Virginians, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) finally broke its silence and advised pregnant women not to drink the water."
Elizabeth Warren: This is the Moment to Fight Back on the Economy
Elizabeth Warren: This is the Moment to Fight Back on the Economy
"Sen. Elizabeth had a fiery response to the Republicans and their continued obstruction of anything and everything President Obama has tried to do to get our economy moving again, and on their refusal to extend unemployment benefits on this Wednesday's Now With Alex Wagner."
"Sen. Elizabeth had a fiery response to the Republicans and their continued obstruction of anything and everything President Obama has tried to do to get our economy moving again, and on their refusal to extend unemployment benefits on this Wednesday's Now With Alex Wagner."
The evangelical campaign against birth control is really about Obama
The evangelical campaign against birth control is really about Obama
"For three decades, the anti-contraception movement failed to catch on with evangelicals. That changed in 2011"
"For three decades, the anti-contraception movement failed to catch on with evangelicals. That changed in 2011"
Scahill and Rowley's "Dirty Wars" Nominated for Best Documentary Film | Common Dreams
Scahill and Rowley's "Dirty Wars" Nominated for Best Documentary Film | Common Dreams
"The documentary film "Dirty Wars," featuring independent journalist Jeremy Scahill whosebook of the same name explores the rise of the U.S military's secret war against global terrorism in the aftermath of 9/11, has been nominated for this year's Academy Award in the Best Feature Documentary category."
"The documentary film "Dirty Wars," featuring independent journalist Jeremy Scahill whosebook of the same name explores the rise of the U.S military's secret war against global terrorism in the aftermath of 9/11, has been nominated for this year's Academy Award in the Best Feature Documentary category."
Gov. Christie and David Koch in Cahoots? It's Time to Subpoena the Committee for Our Children's Future
Gov. Christie and David Koch in Cahoots? It's Time to Subpoena the Committee for Our Children's Future
"Christie told the billionaires that The Lord Himself had anointed them to rule America - if only the moochers would stop torturing them with stupid environmental rules and taxes."
"Christie told the billionaires that The Lord Himself had anointed them to rule America - if only the moochers would stop torturing them with stupid environmental rules and taxes."
Panel investigating bridge scandal enlists Rod Blagojevich prosecutor; subpoenas coming soon
Panel investigating bridge scandal enlists Rod Blagojevich prosecutor; subpoenas coming soon
"In what is widely seen as a serious sign, an Assembly committee that will officially be formed today plans to hire Reid Schar, the former federal prosecutor who put Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich behind bars."
"In what is widely seen as a serious sign, an Assembly committee that will officially be formed today plans to hire Reid Schar, the former federal prosecutor who put Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich behind bars."
You'll Be Shocked at What 'Surveillance Valley' Knows About You
www.alternet.org/media/what-surveillance-valley-knows-about-you
"The most intimate details about a person’s life, packaged and sold over and over again to anyone willing to pay."
"The most intimate details about a person’s life, packaged and sold over and over again to anyone willing to pay."
Roger Ailes Bio Reveals Just How Anti-Science, Anti-Clean Energy The Fox News Chief Is
www.thinkprogress.org/climate/2014/01/15/3164221/roger-ailes-bio-fox-news-anti-science/
"For all those who thought that the extremism of Fox News was a purely cynical effort to win elections, this new biography makes the case that Roger Ailes, at least, is a true believer."
"For all those who thought that the extremism of Fox News was a purely cynical effort to win elections, this new biography makes the case that Roger Ailes, at least, is a true believer."
I Had a Middle Class Job and I Still Ended Up on Food Stamps at 60
www.alternet.org/i-had-middle-class-job-and-i-still-ended-food-stamps-60
"Welcome to the new reality of the working poor."
"Welcome to the new reality of the working poor."
January 15, 2014
Senator Richard Burr Blocks Judge That Senator Richard Burr Told Obama To Nominate
www.thinkprogress.org/justice/2014/01/15/3164541/senator-richard-burr-blocks-judge-senator-richard-burr-told-obama-nominate/
"In 2009, Sen. Richard Burr (R-NC) wrote a letter to President Obama recommending that he nominate Jennifer May-Parker, a federal prosecutor from his state, to a judicial vacancy on a federal trial court. You can read his letter to President Obama here. Last June, the president agreed with Burr’s recommendation, and nominated Ms. May-Parker to be a federal district judge.
And now Burr is blocking May-Parker’s nomination, invoking an arcane Senate tradition that allows senators to unilaterally veto judicial nominees from their own state. In an interview with the Huffington Post’s Jennifer Bendery, Burr refused to explain why the woman he once said has “the requisite qualifications to serve with distinction” as a federal district judge is suddenly unfit to be a federal district judge."
"In 2009, Sen. Richard Burr (R-NC) wrote a letter to President Obama recommending that he nominate Jennifer May-Parker, a federal prosecutor from his state, to a judicial vacancy on a federal trial court. You can read his letter to President Obama here. Last June, the president agreed with Burr’s recommendation, and nominated Ms. May-Parker to be a federal district judge.
And now Burr is blocking May-Parker’s nomination, invoking an arcane Senate tradition that allows senators to unilaterally veto judicial nominees from their own state. In an interview with the Huffington Post’s Jennifer Bendery, Burr refused to explain why the woman he once said has “the requisite qualifications to serve with distinction” as a federal district judge is suddenly unfit to be a federal district judge."
75 Economists Including Seven Nobel Laureates Endorse Senate Bill to Raise Minimum Wage
75 Economists Including Seven Nobel Laureates Endorse Senate Bill to Raise Minimum Wage
"$10.10 an hour minimum wage increase shows an improvement but is still not a living wage, which would be twice the poverty rate at $12 an hour."
"$10.10 an hour minimum wage increase shows an improvement but is still not a living wage, which would be twice the poverty rate at $12 an hour."
Fox News’ greatest failure: Roger Ailes, Chris Christie and the quest for a Republican president
Fox News’ greatest failure: Roger Ailes, Chris Christie and the quest for a Republican president
"And so Ailes set out to recruit a viable Republican candidate. In the summer of 2010, he invited Chris Christie to dinner at his home in Garrison with Rush Limbaugh."
"And so Ailes set out to recruit a viable Republican candidate. In the summer of 2010, he invited Chris Christie to dinner at his home in Garrison with Rush Limbaugh."
Infrastructure 101: The Evolution of Building Big Things (Part 1)
Infrastructure 101: The Evolution of Building Big Things (Part 1)
"When it comes to infrastructure privatization agreements, the contracts themselves should be a warning that all is not right."
"When it comes to infrastructure privatization agreements, the contracts themselves should be a warning that all is not right."
Infrastructure 101: The Evolution of Building Big Things - Part 2: Adverse Events and Privatization Consultants
Infrastructure 101: The Evolution of Building Big Things - Part 2: Adverse Events and Privatization Consultants
"Water privatization may not seem to have much in common with highway privatization, but contracts to privatize water, highways and other sorts of infrastructure are filled with "boilerplate" language, that is, each contract contains the same language, except for details such as the identities of the parties to the contract or issues specific to an industry or location."
"Water privatization may not seem to have much in common with highway privatization, but contracts to privatize water, highways and other sorts of infrastructure are filled with "boilerplate" language, that is, each contract contains the same language, except for details such as the identities of the parties to the contract or issues specific to an industry or location."
Fischer: Only Property Owners Should Be Eligible To Vote | Right Wing Watch
Fischer: Only Property Owners Should Be Eligible To Vote | Right Wing Watch
"On his radio show yesterday, Bryan Fischer called for ending Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, food stamps, as well as the elimination of the minimum wage ... all in order to help the poor and those struggling to make ends meet, of course.
So logically this discussion resulted in Fischer eventually calling for a return to an electoral system in which only people who own property can vote."
"On his radio show yesterday, Bryan Fischer called for ending Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, food stamps, as well as the elimination of the minimum wage ... all in order to help the poor and those struggling to make ends meet, of course.
So logically this discussion resulted in Fischer eventually calling for a return to an electoral system in which only people who own property can vote."
NAFTA at 20: A Model for Corporate Rule | Common Dreams
NAFTA at 20: A Model for Corporate Rule | Common Dreams
"NAFTA gave multinational corporations the right to sue governments to block regulations they don't like, undermining democracy and local sovereignty"
"NAFTA gave multinational corporations the right to sue governments to block regulations they don't like, undermining democracy and local sovereignty"
Poorest at Risk, Skepticism High as Officials OK Water Safety in West Virginia | Common Dreams
Poorest at Risk, Skepticism High as Officials OK Water Safety in West Virginia | Common Dreams
"Though officials announce water back at 'safe' limit, scientists and vulnerable residents not so sure"
"Though officials announce water back at 'safe' limit, scientists and vulnerable residents not so sure"
PERRspectives: Missouri Blocks Navigators for Obamacare, but Not Medicare
PERRspectives: Missouri Blocks Navigators for Obamacare, but Not Medicare
"The first numbers on the body count from the Republican sabotage of the Affordable Care Actare just now coming in. Last week, an analysis from Harvard's Theda Skocpol revealed that states that both set up their own health care exchanges and embraced the ACA's expansion of Medicaid are racing towards their enrollment goals, while the reddest of red states which refused to do either are barely moving the needle for their uninsured populations. Now, a George Washington University study shows that states that also passed laws limiting the ability of health care "navigators" to advise customers have severely compromised their residents' ability to gain access to health care."
"The first numbers on the body count from the Republican sabotage of the Affordable Care Actare just now coming in. Last week, an analysis from Harvard's Theda Skocpol revealed that states that both set up their own health care exchanges and embraced the ACA's expansion of Medicaid are racing towards their enrollment goals, while the reddest of red states which refused to do either are barely moving the needle for their uninsured populations. Now, a George Washington University study shows that states that also passed laws limiting the ability of health care "navigators" to advise customers have severely compromised their residents' ability to gain access to health care."
The Real Chris Christie Scandal: His Policies | Common Dreams
The Real Chris Christie Scandal: His Policies | Common Dreams
"Enriching the rich and big business: While stiffing New Jersey's poor and its middle class, Christie has handed big corporations more than $2 billion in tax breaks that has had little impact on job creation. For example, the state gave Prudential Insurance a quarter-billion simply to move its headquarters a few blocks in Newark. While New Jersey desperately needs to invest in infrastructure and education, Christie three times vetoed an income tax hike for New Jersey's millionaires. He warned that it would trigger a massive exodus of rich people even though research reveals that it would have no such impact."
"Enriching the rich and big business: While stiffing New Jersey's poor and its middle class, Christie has handed big corporations more than $2 billion in tax breaks that has had little impact on job creation. For example, the state gave Prudential Insurance a quarter-billion simply to move its headquarters a few blocks in Newark. While New Jersey desperately needs to invest in infrastructure and education, Christie three times vetoed an income tax hike for New Jersey's millionaires. He warned that it would trigger a massive exodus of rich people even though research reveals that it would have no such impact."
America's Real Welfare Queens
America's Real Welfare Queens
"But here's what Republicans aren't telling you.
In 2012, the average American taxpayer making $50,000 per year paid just $36 towards the food stamps program.
That's about ten cents a day.
Now compare that to the fact that an average American family making $50,000 a year pays a whopping $6,000 a year in subsidies to Republican-friendly corporations.
So, who's really causing our nation's economic woes? America's real welfare queens: the corporations." (Reposted)
"But here's what Republicans aren't telling you.
In 2012, the average American taxpayer making $50,000 per year paid just $36 towards the food stamps program.
That's about ten cents a day.
Now compare that to the fact that an average American family making $50,000 a year pays a whopping $6,000 a year in subsidies to Republican-friendly corporations.
So, who's really causing our nation's economic woes? America's real welfare queens: the corporations." (Reposted)
Exposing the Koch Brothers’ 2014 Plan: Focus On 13 States and Campaign on Social Media
www.alternet.org/tea-party-and-right/exposing-koch-brothers-2014-plan-focus-13-states-and-campaign-social-media
"The libertarian industrialist brothers David and Charles Koch spent more on 2012 elections than previously believed—$400-plus million, new investigations have found. Buried in that reporting is an even more intriguing detail: where and how their political cartel will campaign in 2014."
"The libertarian industrialist brothers David and Charles Koch spent more on 2012 elections than previously believed—$400-plus million, new investigations have found. Buried in that reporting is an even more intriguing detail: where and how their political cartel will campaign in 2014."
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