March 20, 2014
Abby Huntsman Promotes the Wall Street Banksters' Big Lie
Abby Huntsman Promotes the Wall Street Banksters' Big Lie
"People like Pete Peterson think that if they can convince enough people that Social Security is going bankrupt, the government will do crazy things like raise the retirement age or, as George W. Bush tried to do, privatize Social Security altogether.
If the government does go ahead and privatize Social Security, Peterson and his bankster friends will make billions leaching off the retirement savings of working Americans that otherwise would gone to fund Social Security
They want you to think Social Security is going bankrupt so they can skim the top off your retirement account and toss it into the stock of companies owned by friends of theirs.
Abby Huntsman really does seem like a nice person. I just hope she knows who she's shilling for."
"People like Pete Peterson think that if they can convince enough people that Social Security is going bankrupt, the government will do crazy things like raise the retirement age or, as George W. Bush tried to do, privatize Social Security altogether.
If the government does go ahead and privatize Social Security, Peterson and his bankster friends will make billions leaching off the retirement savings of working Americans that otherwise would gone to fund Social Security
They want you to think Social Security is going bankrupt so they can skim the top off your retirement account and toss it into the stock of companies owned by friends of theirs.
Abby Huntsman really does seem like a nice person. I just hope she knows who she's shilling for."
Scott Brown Woos GOP Rep Who Calls Obamacare 'A Lifesaver'
Scott Brown Woos GOP Rep Who Calls Obamacare 'A Lifesaver'
"Brown found that out on Saturday, when he stopped by the home of Herb Richardson, a Republican state representative. Sitting in Richardson's home, Brown called Obamacare a "monstrosity" that members of Congress didn't even bother to read before they passed. At that point, according to the Coos County Democrat, Richardson chimed in to explain that the law had been a "financial lifesaver" for him and his wife."
"Brown found that out on Saturday, when he stopped by the home of Herb Richardson, a Republican state representative. Sitting in Richardson's home, Brown called Obamacare a "monstrosity" that members of Congress didn't even bother to read before they passed. At that point, according to the Coos County Democrat, Richardson chimed in to explain that the law had been a "financial lifesaver" for him and his wife."
Misogynist Creep McConnell Says Wives Owe Husbands Sex
Misogynist Creep McConnell Says Wives Owe Husbands Sex
"Dennis Prager, anti-feminist, talk radio host, conservative and co-host of a fundraiser for Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-Ky) decided to unwittingly unleash a slew of dreadful remarks, clearly suggesting that a married woman’s consent means nothing if her husband wants to have sex."
"Dennis Prager, anti-feminist, talk radio host, conservative and co-host of a fundraiser for Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-Ky) decided to unwittingly unleash a slew of dreadful remarks, clearly suggesting that a married woman’s consent means nothing if her husband wants to have sex."
‘Christian’ Militia Leader NOW Networking Militias To Assassinate President Obama (Screenshots)
‘Christian’ Militia Leader NOW Networking Militias To Assassinate President Obama (Screenshots)
"How long are we going to allow this man to “test the water?” He has gone from suggestion, to direct threat, to fundraising to fund an assassin, to now attempting to assemble an army. Something needs to be done."
"How long are we going to allow this man to “test the water?” He has gone from suggestion, to direct threat, to fundraising to fund an assassin, to now attempting to assemble an army. Something needs to be done."
Banks Seek To Sway Critical GAO Report
Banks Seek To Sway Critical GAO Report
"The financial industry spends more on federal lobbying than any other, according to the Center for Responsive Politics, a nonpartisan group that tracks money in politics. Financial firms, including banks, hedge funds, mortgage lenders and insurers, last year spent $87.5 million on lobbying from January to through September, the most recent available records show."
"The financial industry spends more on federal lobbying than any other, according to the Center for Responsive Politics, a nonpartisan group that tracks money in politics. Financial firms, including banks, hedge funds, mortgage lenders and insurers, last year spent $87.5 million on lobbying from January to through September, the most recent available records show."
March 19, 2014
Right-Wing Extremists In Montana File For Legislative Races As Democrats
Right-Wing Extremists In Montana File For Legislative Races As Democrats
"Democratic primary voters in some Montana legislative districts will see new and unfamiliar names on the ballot this year. That’s because at least eight Democratic candidates are actually far-right “constitutionalists” and Tea Party activists. One of them is the current Republican vice-chairman for Sanders County."
"Democratic primary voters in some Montana legislative districts will see new and unfamiliar names on the ballot this year. That’s because at least eight Democratic candidates are actually far-right “constitutionalists” and Tea Party activists. One of them is the current Republican vice-chairman for Sanders County."
Why Harvard Must Divest From Fossil Fuels: A Student’s Open Letter | The Nation
Why Harvard Must Divest From Fossil Fuels: A Student’s Open Letter | The Nation
"The movement for fossil-fuel divestment has swelled to what an Oxford University study calls the fastest-growing divestment movement in history, one with the potential to shift the political ground beneath the fossil-fuel lobby’s feet."
"The movement for fossil-fuel divestment has swelled to what an Oxford University study calls the fastest-growing divestment movement in history, one with the potential to shift the political ground beneath the fossil-fuel lobby’s feet."
Scalia Licks His Chops: Upcoming SCOTUS Case May Be Even Worse than Citizens United
www.alternet.org/tea-party-and-right/scalia-licks-his-chops-upcoming-scotus-case-may-be-even-worse-citizens-united
"The case, McCutcheon v. Federal Election Commission, concerns a challenge by the RNC and conservative CEO Shaun McCutcheon to the federal laws restricting how much one person can donate to candidates and party committees each cycle."
"The case, McCutcheon v. Federal Election Commission, concerns a challenge by the RNC and conservative CEO Shaun McCutcheon to the federal laws restricting how much one person can donate to candidates and party committees each cycle."
Georgia Lawmakers Ignore Pleas From ‘Moral Monday’ Protesters And Block Medicaid Expansion
www.thinkprogress.org/health/2014/03/19/3416632/georgia-medicaid-expansion-rejected/
"On Tuesday evening, the Georgia legislature approved two anti-Obamacare measures that will block state residents’ access to insurance."
"On Tuesday evening, the Georgia legislature approved two anti-Obamacare measures that will block state residents’ access to insurance."
The Great American 'Toxic Chemical' Experiment | Common Dreams
The Great American 'Toxic Chemical' Experiment | Common Dreams
"Typically, most of us are exposed to low levels of a wide variety of the chemicals in our lives — from paint, carpet, food, food containers, air, water, and more. If, after 60 years, you get sick, it’s hard to say what caused it."
"Typically, most of us are exposed to low levels of a wide variety of the chemicals in our lives — from paint, carpet, food, food containers, air, water, and more. If, after 60 years, you get sick, it’s hard to say what caused it."
Expand Overtime Pay? GOP Says No
www.inthesetimes.com/article/16446/expand_overtime_pay_gop_says_no
"Unlike the GOP, the vast majority of Americans believe extra effort should be rewarded. They cherish the idea that their country is one where those who work hard can get ahead. In recent years, however, the actual experience of far too many Americans is that doesn’t happen. They work 50, 60, even 70 hours a week and don’t get paid extra for it. These are not high-roller managers or executives or professionals who don’t expect time and a half for overtime. These are hourly wage earners."
"Unlike the GOP, the vast majority of Americans believe extra effort should be rewarded. They cherish the idea that their country is one where those who work hard can get ahead. In recent years, however, the actual experience of far too many Americans is that doesn’t happen. They work 50, 60, even 70 hours a week and don’t get paid extra for it. These are not high-roller managers or executives or professionals who don’t expect time and a half for overtime. These are hourly wage earners."
The Plutocrats Strike Back
The Plutocrats Strike Back
"Populism is popular with voters, but not with big donors. But the problem for the bankers, Langone, Perkins and the rest is that they no longer operate in secret. The special interest claims no longer have legitimacy. Folks don’t buy the trickle down voodoo anymore."
"Populism is popular with voters, but not with big donors. But the problem for the bankers, Langone, Perkins and the rest is that they no longer operate in secret. The special interest claims no longer have legitimacy. Folks don’t buy the trickle down voodoo anymore."
What's It Like To Raise 3 Kids On $9.49 Per Hour? Watch And See
What's It Like To Raise 3 Kids On $9.49 Per Hour? Watch And See
"HBO is streaming The Shriver Report documentary "Paycheck to Paycheck: The Life and Times of Katrina Gilbert" free to all viewers this week. Take the time to watch."
"HBO is streaming The Shriver Report documentary "Paycheck to Paycheck: The Life and Times of Katrina Gilbert" free to all viewers this week. Take the time to watch."
Greg Abbott Falls into Wendy Davis’ Trap, Admits He Would Veto Equal Pay in Texas
www.politicususa.com/2014/03/19/greg-abbott-falls-wendy-davis-trap-admitting-veto-equal-pay-texas.html
"It’s the War of the Roses and Greg Abbott’s new tactic is to stop hiding that his office doesn’t pay women equally. Now he’s just coming out with it — doubling down on misogyny. After Greg Abbott (R-TX) was busted for claiming to support equal pay but paying the women in his office less than men for the same jobs, he finally admitted that he would veto equal pay in Texas."
"It’s the War of the Roses and Greg Abbott’s new tactic is to stop hiding that his office doesn’t pay women equally. Now he’s just coming out with it — doubling down on misogyny. After Greg Abbott (R-TX) was busted for claiming to support equal pay but paying the women in his office less than men for the same jobs, he finally admitted that he would veto equal pay in Texas."
Wisconsin Republican Legislator Tears Into His Own Party For Voter Suppression
www.thinkprogress.org/justice/2014/03/19/3416499/wisconsin-senator-voter-suppression/
"As his own party pushed through the Wisconsin Senate the latest in a series of measures to make it harder to vote in the state, Sen. Dale Schultz (R) blasted the efforts as “trying to suppress the vote” last week.
Schultz, who is not seeking re-election and was the lone Republican to oppose a bill last week to limit the hours of early voting in every jurisdiction in the state, was a guest on The Devil’s Advocates radio program on Madison’s 92.1 FM last Wednesday. Asked why his party pushed the bill, Schultz responded, “I am not willing to defend them anymore. I’m just not and I’m embarrassed by this"."
"As his own party pushed through the Wisconsin Senate the latest in a series of measures to make it harder to vote in the state, Sen. Dale Schultz (R) blasted the efforts as “trying to suppress the vote” last week.
Schultz, who is not seeking re-election and was the lone Republican to oppose a bill last week to limit the hours of early voting in every jurisdiction in the state, was a guest on The Devil’s Advocates radio program on Madison’s 92.1 FM last Wednesday. Asked why his party pushed the bill, Schultz responded, “I am not willing to defend them anymore. I’m just not and I’m embarrassed by this"."
Bombshell: How The Fix Was In On Christie's 'Stronger Than The Storm' Ad
Bombshell: How The Fix Was In On Christie's 'Stronger Than The Storm' Ad
"How Michelle Brown, Christie's reputed gal pal, made sure the most expensive bid got the job"
"How Michelle Brown, Christie's reputed gal pal, made sure the most expensive bid got the job"
New 'Southern Strategy'? Waves of Liberal Protest Ripple Across South | Common Dreams
New 'Southern Strategy'? Waves of Liberal Protest Ripple Across South | Common Dreams
"Waves of liberal protest are rippling across the South as a newly energized base—fueled by the momentum of the Moral Monday protests in North Carolina—are declaring to the largely Republican establishment that they will no longer be ignored."
"Waves of liberal protest are rippling across the South as a newly energized base—fueled by the momentum of the Moral Monday protests in North Carolina—are declaring to the largely Republican establishment that they will no longer be ignored."
GOP Lawmaker: Equal Pay And Minimum Wage Bills Make Women Look Like Whiners
GOP Lawmaker: Equal Pay And Minimum Wage Bills Make Women Look Like Whiners
"By the way, Republicans...How's that rebranding effort going?"
"By the way, Republicans...How's that rebranding effort going?"
Chris Christie update: Guv has a terrible Tuesday
Chris Christie update: Guv has a terrible Tuesday
"He gets heckled at a town hall while a new report links him to Superstorm Sandy recovery corruption"
"He gets heckled at a town hall while a new report links him to Superstorm Sandy recovery corruption"
Wisconsin GOP Introduces Bill To Thwart Dark Money Investigation
Wisconsin GOP Introduces Bill To Thwart Dark Money Investigation
"If enacted, the legislation would not necessarily stop the John Doe probe. It would, however, legalize the conduct under investigation in the John Doe for state elections later this year -- including Scott Walker's hotly-contested reelection campaign."
"If enacted, the legislation would not necessarily stop the John Doe probe. It would, however, legalize the conduct under investigation in the John Doe for state elections later this year -- including Scott Walker's hotly-contested reelection campaign."
Kochtopus Tentacles Hide In Alphabet Soup
Kochtopus Tentacles Hide In Alphabet Soup
"Documents released in recent months show the Kochs have added wrinkles to their network that even experts well versed in tax law and campaign finance say they’ve never seen before — wrinkles that could make it harder to discern who controls each nonprofit in the web and how it disperses its money."
"Documents released in recent months show the Kochs have added wrinkles to their network that even experts well versed in tax law and campaign finance say they’ve never seen before — wrinkles that could make it harder to discern who controls each nonprofit in the web and how it disperses its money."
Fox's Bret Baier Lies About Medicaid Gap
Fox's Bret Baier Lies About Medicaid Gap
"Fox's misinformation campaign on the Affordable Care Act continues: Fox Lies About Medicaid Gap It Encouraged"
"Fox's misinformation campaign on the Affordable Care Act continues: Fox Lies About Medicaid Gap It Encouraged"
March 18, 2014
Pipeline Leak Fouls Nature Preserve | Common Dreams
Pipeline Leak Fouls Nature Preserve | Common Dreams
"A nature preserve in Ohio has added its name to the long list of victims of oil spills."
"A nature preserve in Ohio has added its name to the long list of victims of oil spills."
March 17, 2014
Wisconsin GOP Heads Off Criminal Probe Into Corporate Election Spending By Trying To Make It Legal
www.thinkprogress.org/justice/2014/03/17/3414121/wisconsin-coordination-probe/
"Wisconsin’s State Senate Majority Leader, who is reportedly under investigation for his role in a possibly illegal campaign finance scheme, has come up with a novel way to shut down the criminal probe: changing the state law to legalize the activity in question."
"Wisconsin’s State Senate Majority Leader, who is reportedly under investigation for his role in a possibly illegal campaign finance scheme, has come up with a novel way to shut down the criminal probe: changing the state law to legalize the activity in question."
Wisc. lawmaker blocks cancer treatment bill after insurance lobbyist brother opposes it
www.rawstory.com/rs/2014/03/17/wisc-lawmaker-blocks-cancer-treatment-bill-after-insurance-lobbyist-brother-opposes-it/
"On Wednesday, the Majority Leader called a phantom committee meeting to prevent votes from being taken on the bill, but he insisted that his lobbyist brother, who opposes the measure on behalf of insurance companies, had nothing to do with the move. If the legislation is not brought up for a vote by Tuesday, it will most likely be considered dead for this session."
"On Wednesday, the Majority Leader called a phantom committee meeting to prevent votes from being taken on the bill, but he insisted that his lobbyist brother, who opposes the measure on behalf of insurance companies, had nothing to do with the move. If the legislation is not brought up for a vote by Tuesday, it will most likely be considered dead for this session."
Koch Brothers Group Abandons Anti-Obamacare Ads After Fact-Checkers Prove Them False
www.alternet.org/news-amp-politics/koch-brothers-anti-obamacare-ads-backfire
"The commercials by Americans For Prosperity backfire after being overwhelming panned for falsehoods."
"The commercials by Americans For Prosperity backfire after being overwhelming panned for falsehoods."
Fox News Analyst Pathetically Attacks Obama for Being a Good Father
www.forwardprogressives.com/fox-news-analyst-attacks-obama-good-father/
"you have to be a true bottom-feeder to even think about bashing the president for being a good father and buying his daughters something nice. The people on Fox News will really try to attack President Obama for anything. Even if it’s something as stupid as being photographed holding up pink sweaters that he was contemplating buying for his daughters."
"you have to be a true bottom-feeder to even think about bashing the president for being a good father and buying his daughters something nice. The people on Fox News will really try to attack President Obama for anything. Even if it’s something as stupid as being photographed holding up pink sweaters that he was contemplating buying for his daughters."
Head of GOP PAC targeting women: GOP doesn’t support equal pay laws because “women are busy”
Head of GOP PAC targeting women: GOP doesn’t support equal pay laws because “women are busy”
"When asked to name the GOP's "real-world solutions" to the gender pay problem, the head of the PAC was speechless"
"When asked to name the GOP's "real-world solutions" to the gender pay problem, the head of the PAC was speechless"
Three Dems Ask To Meet With Holder To Discuss Prosecuting Mortgage Fraud
Three Dems Ask To Meet With Holder To Discuss Prosecuting Mortgage Fraud
"Three Democratic lawmakers asked to discuss with U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder the Department of Justice's allegedly uneven efforts to prosecute mortgage fraud, according to a letter dated Monday."
"Three Democratic lawmakers asked to discuss with U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder the Department of Justice's allegedly uneven efforts to prosecute mortgage fraud, according to a letter dated Monday."
Pensiongate? Christie Campaign Donors Won Huge Contracts | The Nation
Pensiongate? Christie Campaign Donors Won Huge Contracts | The Nation
"While trumpeting “pension reform,” the New Jersey governor placed retiree assets in the hands of hedge fund managers bankrolling his political career."
"While trumpeting “pension reform,” the New Jersey governor placed retiree assets in the hands of hedge fund managers bankrolling his political career."
Christie's Wall St. Donors Won Huge Contracts, Sucked Out Fat Pension Fees
Christie's Wall St. Donors Won Huge Contracts, Sucked Out Fat Pension Fees
"Christie bragged about pension "reform," but outsourced the assets to his Wall St. buddies so they could siphon off large fees."
"Christie bragged about pension "reform," but outsourced the assets to his Wall St. buddies so they could siphon off large fees."
GOP Bill Designed to Disrupt John Doe Dark Money Probe, Court Filings Confirm
GOP Bill Designed to Disrupt John Doe Dark Money Probe, Court Filings Confirm
"New court filings confirm that Wisconsin's John Doe campaign finance investigation hinges on how state election law treats "issue ad" groups coordinating with political campaigns, shedding new light on a Republican effort to quietly change the law in advance of Governor Scott Walker's reelection campaign."
"New court filings confirm that Wisconsin's John Doe campaign finance investigation hinges on how state election law treats "issue ad" groups coordinating with political campaigns, shedding new light on a Republican effort to quietly change the law in advance of Governor Scott Walker's reelection campaign."
PERRspectives: Kentucky Showcases Paul Ryan's Wrong-Way War on Poverty
PERRspectives: Kentucky Showcases Paul Ryan's Wrong-Way War on Poverty
"Paul Ryan tried to put a face--a black face--on American poverty. As it turns out, Ryan's dog-whistle to the GOP's right-wing base wasn't merely cynical, it was also wrong.
After all, about two-thirds of the nation's 46.5 million people living in poverty are white. The U.S. Census Bureau also informs us that the 17.7 percent poverty rate in rural areas is almost three points higher than the national average. (Poverty is highest in the South, which in 2012 was the only part of the country where it increased.) In many cities and across the countryside, tectonic structural changes in regional economies, and not Paul Ryan's "tailspin of culture," are wiping out good paying jobs. The result is that many communities are sustained by a patchwork of federal and state programs helping to provide food assistance, income support, unemployment benefits, health care and more.
To put it another way, the faces of American poverty can be found in Rust Belt cities, in the Mississippi Delta and in Appalachia. And now--just as it did when LBJ launched his War on Poverty 50 years ago--Kentucky shows why."
"Paul Ryan tried to put a face--a black face--on American poverty. As it turns out, Ryan's dog-whistle to the GOP's right-wing base wasn't merely cynical, it was also wrong.
After all, about two-thirds of the nation's 46.5 million people living in poverty are white. The U.S. Census Bureau also informs us that the 17.7 percent poverty rate in rural areas is almost three points higher than the national average. (Poverty is highest in the South, which in 2012 was the only part of the country where it increased.) In many cities and across the countryside, tectonic structural changes in regional economies, and not Paul Ryan's "tailspin of culture," are wiping out good paying jobs. The result is that many communities are sustained by a patchwork of federal and state programs helping to provide food assistance, income support, unemployment benefits, health care and more.
To put it another way, the faces of American poverty can be found in Rust Belt cities, in the Mississippi Delta and in Appalachia. And now--just as it did when LBJ launched his War on Poverty 50 years ago--Kentucky shows why."
The Untaxed Americans: The Speculators, Hustlers, and Freeloaders of Wall Street | Common Dreams
The Untaxed Americans: The Speculators, Hustlers, and Freeloaders of Wall Street | Common Dreams
"There is currently no U.S. tax on the purchase of stocks, derivatives, and other financial instruments. The rest of us pay up to a 10 percent sales tax on the necessities of daily life. A tiny financial transaction tax of perhaps a tenth of a percent on the trading of financial securities would begin to correct this inequity, while generating billions of dollars of revenue."
"There is currently no U.S. tax on the purchase of stocks, derivatives, and other financial instruments. The rest of us pay up to a 10 percent sales tax on the necessities of daily life. A tiny financial transaction tax of perhaps a tenth of a percent on the trading of financial securities would begin to correct this inequity, while generating billions of dollars of revenue."
Warming Melts Last Stable Edge Of Greenland Icesheet
Warming Melts Last Stable Edge Of Greenland Icesheet
"The last edge of the Greenland ice sheet that had resisted global warming has now become unstable, adding billions of tonnes of meltwater to rising seas, scientists said on Sunday."
"The last edge of the Greenland ice sheet that had resisted global warming has now become unstable, adding billions of tonnes of meltwater to rising seas, scientists said on Sunday."
March 16, 2014
Ten Reasons Why Nukes Are Nuts
Ten Reasons Why Nukes Are Nuts
"A single nuclear weapon can destroy a city. A few nuclear weapons can destroy a country. A relatively small regional nuclear war can cause a nuclear famine, taking 2 billion lives globally. An all-out nuclear war could end civilization and cause the extinction of most complex life on the planet."
"A single nuclear weapon can destroy a city. A few nuclear weapons can destroy a country. A relatively small regional nuclear war can cause a nuclear famine, taking 2 billion lives globally. An all-out nuclear war could end civilization and cause the extinction of most complex life on the planet."
Council to ask for more radiation testing - Fairbanks Daily News-Miner: Local News
Council to ask for more radiation testing - Fairbanks Daily News-Miner: Local News
"At the urging of a concerned citizen, the council will consider a resolution tonight that calls on the federal government and United Nations to do more radiation testing in Alaska waters. It asserts that health risks related to nuclear meltdown have been vastly understated and are linked for the deaths of 20,000 Americans in the weeks after the meltdown."
"At the urging of a concerned citizen, the council will consider a resolution tonight that calls on the federal government and United Nations to do more radiation testing in Alaska waters. It asserts that health risks related to nuclear meltdown have been vastly understated and are linked for the deaths of 20,000 Americans in the weeks after the meltdown."
8 Shocking Instances of Moronic Right-Wing Malevolence This Week
www.alternet.org/tea-party-and-right/8-shocking-instances-moronic-right-wing-malevolence-week
"The far-right assemblage called CPAC may have ended, but the wingnuts carried on undaunted this week."
"The far-right assemblage called CPAC may have ended, but the wingnuts carried on undaunted this week."
Conservative Myths About the Minimum Wage, Debunked
www.alternet.org/economy/conservative-myths-about-minimum-wage-debunked
"raising the minimum wage to $10.10 per hour would save taxpayers $4.6 billion in spending on food stamps."
"raising the minimum wage to $10.10 per hour would save taxpayers $4.6 billion in spending on food stamps."
Arizona Republican: Slavery Was Good For Black People Because ‘Slave Owners Took Care Of Their Livestock’
www.addictinginfo.org/2014/03/15/arizona-republican-slavery-was-good-for-black-people/
"As it turns out, most welfare recipients are actually white and happen to live in red states. Therefore, if anyone is turning into government “slaves,” it’s the GOP base. But comparing welfare to slavery is total nonsense. Receiving federal aid to keep from starving to death or becoming homeless is not the same as slavery."
"As it turns out, most welfare recipients are actually white and happen to live in red states. Therefore, if anyone is turning into government “slaves,” it’s the GOP base. But comparing welfare to slavery is total nonsense. Receiving federal aid to keep from starving to death or becoming homeless is not the same as slavery."
'Collapse' of Modern Civilization a Real Possibility: Study | Common Dreams
'Collapse' of Modern Civilization a Real Possibility: Study | Common Dreams
""Ecological strain" and "economic stratification" could lead to the global fall of modern civilization within decades, researchers warn in a disturbing new study (PDF) sponsored by NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center."
""Ecological strain" and "economic stratification" could lead to the global fall of modern civilization within decades, researchers warn in a disturbing new study (PDF) sponsored by NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center."
March 15, 2014
5 Life-Changing Laws We Can Thank Women For
www.thinkprogress.org/politics/2014/03/15/3398251/life-changing-laws-women/
"American women still have a long way to go to achieve equal representation in our nation’s top leadership positions. But, despite never having held more than 20 percent of seats in Congress, women have still managed to make an indelible mark on our nation’s legislative history, serving as the driving force behind some of America’s greatest progressive achievements.
In honor of Women’s History Month, here are five landmark laws you may not know were enacted with women playing a unique leadership role"
"American women still have a long way to go to achieve equal representation in our nation’s top leadership positions. But, despite never having held more than 20 percent of seats in Congress, women have still managed to make an indelible mark on our nation’s legislative history, serving as the driving force behind some of America’s greatest progressive achievements.
In honor of Women’s History Month, here are five landmark laws you may not know were enacted with women playing a unique leadership role"
Fox News: Where Helping Workers "Undercuts Work Ethic"
www.mediamatters.org/blog/2014/03/14/fox-news-where-helping-workers-undercuts-work-e/198491
"Fox News is once again pining for the days when more work came with less pay, claiming that expanding overtime pay protections "undercuts work ethic"."
"Fox News is once again pining for the days when more work came with less pay, claiming that expanding overtime pay protections "undercuts work ethic"."
Mitch McConnell’s Tea Party disaster: How the buffoons he created can sink him
Mitch McConnell’s Tea Party disaster: How the buffoons he created can sink him
"After pumping up a movement of fringe lunatics, Mitch McConnell may become yet another victim of his own "success"."
"After pumping up a movement of fringe lunatics, Mitch McConnell may become yet another victim of his own "success"."
MSNBC's New Young GOP Voice, Abby Huntsman, Takes Old False Generational Warfare Line on Social Security
www.alternet.org/media/msnbcs-new-young-gop-voice-abby-huntsman-takes-old-false-generational-warfare-line-social
"A stunning error-riddled tirade from presidential candidate Jon Huntsman's daughter."
"A stunning error-riddled tirade from presidential candidate Jon Huntsman's daughter."
PERRspectives: Republicans Burr, Deal Split on GOP's Emergency Room Plan
PERRspectives: Republicans Burr, Deal Split on GOP's Emergency Room Plan
"Rather than take President Obama's money to run the Peach State's hospitals, Nathan Deal would prefer to leave hundreds of thousands uninsured and put an end to the only health care plan Republicans have consistently supported. (Unsurprisingly, he wants to avoid accountability for his decision by shifting responsibility for the Medicaid rejection to the Georgia state legislature.) In Deal's ideal Georgia, you couldn't just go to the emergency room."
"Rather than take President Obama's money to run the Peach State's hospitals, Nathan Deal would prefer to leave hundreds of thousands uninsured and put an end to the only health care plan Republicans have consistently supported. (Unsurprisingly, he wants to avoid accountability for his decision by shifting responsibility for the Medicaid rejection to the Georgia state legislature.) In Deal's ideal Georgia, you couldn't just go to the emergency room."
Louisiana: Free Speech Isn't For Liberals
Louisiana: Free Speech Isn't For Liberals
"How Republican of them! Refusing the ACA Medicaid expansion is somehow a 'fiscally sound' decision, but spending a lot of money on lawyers and lawsuits to squelch MoveOn's criticisms are perfectly fine."
"How Republican of them! Refusing the ACA Medicaid expansion is somehow a 'fiscally sound' decision, but spending a lot of money on lawyers and lawsuits to squelch MoveOn's criticisms are perfectly fine."
Republican Who Posted That He Ate His Battered Women Plain Refuses to Apologize
www.politicususa.com/2014/03/14/republican-posted-ate-battered-women-plain-refuses-apologize.html
"New Hampshire State Representative Kyle Tasker refuses to apologize for a very offensive comment about battered women that he left on a Tea Party Facebook page."
"New Hampshire State Representative Kyle Tasker refuses to apologize for a very offensive comment about battered women that he left on a Tea Party Facebook page."
Fox News Host Worries Overtime Changes Will Stifle Workaholism
Fox News Host Worries Overtime Changes Will Stifle Workaholism
"In five minutes, this group came up with some of the dumbest reasons ever to oppose modernizing overtime rules that read like the US Chamber of Commerce wrote them. The dumbest claim of the lot was MacCallum's "concern" that paying employees overtime will diminish the standout effect of workaholics when compared to the rest of their co-workers."
"In five minutes, this group came up with some of the dumbest reasons ever to oppose modernizing overtime rules that read like the US Chamber of Commerce wrote them. The dumbest claim of the lot was MacCallum's "concern" that paying employees overtime will diminish the standout effect of workaholics when compared to the rest of their co-workers."
The Right's Crusade to Repeal the 20th Century
www.alternet.org/tea-party-and-right/rights-crusade-repeal-20th-century?page=0%2C0
"Opposing the minimum wage, overtime pay, even child labor laws, the GOP is trying to make it easier to exploit workers."
"Opposing the minimum wage, overtime pay, even child labor laws, the GOP is trying to make it easier to exploit workers."
What A Destructive Wall Street Owes Young Americans | Common Dreams
What A Destructive Wall Street Owes Young Americans | Common Dreams
'Wall Street’s big banks and their financial networks that collapsed the U.S. economy in 2008-2009, were saved with huge bailouts by the taxpayers, but these Wall Street Gamblers are still paid huge money and are again creeping toward reckless misbehavior. Their corporate crime wave strip-mined the economy for young workers, threw them on the unemployment rolls and helped make possible a low-wage economy that is draining away their ability to afford basic housing, goods, and services."
'Wall Street’s big banks and their financial networks that collapsed the U.S. economy in 2008-2009, were saved with huge bailouts by the taxpayers, but these Wall Street Gamblers are still paid huge money and are again creeping toward reckless misbehavior. Their corporate crime wave strip-mined the economy for young workers, threw them on the unemployment rolls and helped make possible a low-wage economy that is draining away their ability to afford basic housing, goods, and services."
March 14, 2014
North Carolina Colluded With Duke Energy to Block Green Groups: Internal Docs | Common Dreams
North Carolina Colluded With Duke Energy to Block Green Groups: Internal Docs | Common Dreams
"Internal emails released Thursday by environmental lawyers confirm what activists have long charged: the North Carolina authorities tasked with regulating Duke Energy — the company responsible for the Dan River coal ash disaster — have been colluding with the corporation behind closed doors to undermine concerned environmental groups."
"Internal emails released Thursday by environmental lawyers confirm what activists have long charged: the North Carolina authorities tasked with regulating Duke Energy — the company responsible for the Dan River coal ash disaster — have been colluding with the corporation behind closed doors to undermine concerned environmental groups."
GOP Strategist Saves Bundle On ACA Policy, Still Hates It!
GOP Strategist Saves Bundle On ACA Policy, Still Hates It!
"Seriously, at this point it's just a stretch to understand how this guy can criticize something that is saving him at least $1,000 per month and likely more when he looks at what is and isn't covered."
"Seriously, at this point it's just a stretch to understand how this guy can criticize something that is saving him at least $1,000 per month and likely more when he looks at what is and isn't covered."
How Pennsylvania Lawmakers Turned A Bipartisan Bill To Protect Domestic Violence Victims Into A Political Football
www.thinkprogress.org/economy/2014/03/14/3406211/pennsylvania-domestic-violence-leave/
"The Pennsylvania state House passed HB1796 unanimously, a bill that would protect domestic violence victims from eviction when they have to call the police multiple times on their abusers. But when it arrived in the Senate this week, lawmakers took the opportunity to add an amendment that would ban any local government in the state from passing paid or unpaid leave policies — policies that could also help these very victims."
"The Pennsylvania state House passed HB1796 unanimously, a bill that would protect domestic violence victims from eviction when they have to call the police multiple times on their abusers. But when it arrived in the Senate this week, lawmakers took the opportunity to add an amendment that would ban any local government in the state from passing paid or unpaid leave policies — policies that could also help these very victims."
Muppet-hater leads wave of Tea Party ‘extremists’ running as Democrats in Montana
www.rawstory.com/rs/2014/03/14/muppet-hater-leads-wave-of-tea-party-extremists-running-as-democrats-in-montana/
"Tea Party conservatives have filed to run as Democrats in at least eight Montana primary races, according to reports."
"Tea Party conservatives have filed to run as Democrats in at least eight Montana primary races, according to reports."
Overtime Is Only One Way Your Bosses Steal Your Money
Overtime Is Only One Way Your Bosses Steal Your Money
"Oh, the roaches are coming out of the woodwork to protest the new overtime regulations."
"Oh, the roaches are coming out of the woodwork to protest the new overtime regulations."
Now You Can Walk Into A Best Buy And Get A Solar System For Your Home
www.thinkprogress.org/climate/2014/03/12/3395101/best-buy-solar-system-leasing/
"SolarCity and Best Buy have just announced a deal allowing customers to get low-cost and low-hassle solar power for their homes.
It’s what’s called a third party leasing agreement. Rather than purchasing a solar array outright, they lease the system from the provider — SolarCity, in this case. It’s just that the system is installed on the roof of the homeowner. The benefit for the customer is they don’t have to worry about installation and maintenance — the provider handles that — and there are no big upfront costs. The customer just pays the provider a set amount each month for the electricity, and that cost is usually slightly lower than the going market rate."
"SolarCity and Best Buy have just announced a deal allowing customers to get low-cost and low-hassle solar power for their homes.
It’s what’s called a third party leasing agreement. Rather than purchasing a solar array outright, they lease the system from the provider — SolarCity, in this case. It’s just that the system is installed on the roof of the homeowner. The benefit for the customer is they don’t have to worry about installation and maintenance — the provider handles that — and there are no big upfront costs. The customer just pays the provider a set amount each month for the electricity, and that cost is usually slightly lower than the going market rate."
New Jersey Banned Tesla To Help Out Car Dealers
www.thinkprogress.org/climate/2014/03/12/3395091/new-jersey-banned-tesla/
"New Jersey regulators caved to pressure from car dealers and decided on Tuesday to ban automakers that want to sell directly to customers from doing so in the state. The New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission rushed through a rule change and voted 6-0 to adopt this new regulation that mandates that all new car dealers get a franchise agreement if they want a state license to sell cars in New Jersey."
"New Jersey regulators caved to pressure from car dealers and decided on Tuesday to ban automakers that want to sell directly to customers from doing so in the state. The New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission rushed through a rule change and voted 6-0 to adopt this new regulation that mandates that all new car dealers get a franchise agreement if they want a state license to sell cars in New Jersey."
10 Things Elizabeth Warren's Consumer Protection Agency Has Done For You
www.motherjones.com/politics/2014/02/elizabeth-warren-consumer-financial-protection-bureau
"The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), the watchdog agency conceived of and established by Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) in the wake of the financial crisis, had a hard time getting on its feet. The GOP tried everything it could to hobble the bureau, but to no avail. Over the past couple of years, the CFPB has issued dozens of protections shielding consumers from shady practices by mortgage lenders, student loan servicers, and credit card companies."
"The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), the watchdog agency conceived of and established by Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) in the wake of the financial crisis, had a hard time getting on its feet. The GOP tried everything it could to hobble the bureau, but to no avail. Over the past couple of years, the CFPB has issued dozens of protections shielding consumers from shady practices by mortgage lenders, student loan servicers, and credit card companies."
The West's Coming Tragedy of the Commons
The West's Coming Tragedy of the Commons
"The severe droughts now affecting California and the Colorado River basin suggest that we may be at a tipping point in our ability to continue to manage the water systems that are needed to power agriculture and support Western development."
"The severe droughts now affecting California and the Colorado River basin suggest that we may be at a tipping point in our ability to continue to manage the water systems that are needed to power agriculture and support Western development."
Jon Stewart Rips Eric Bolling Over Fox's Shaming of SNAP Recipients
Jon Stewart Rips Eric Bolling Over Fox's Shaming of SNAP Recipients
"The Daily Show's Jon Stewart once again destroys the hypocrites over at Faux "news" for their attacks on those living in poverty and their double standard when it comes to shilling for those receiving corporate welfare."
"The Daily Show's Jon Stewart once again destroys the hypocrites over at Faux "news" for their attacks on those living in poverty and their double standard when it comes to shilling for those receiving corporate welfare."
Contaminated Water Supplies, Health Concerns Accumulate With Fracking Boom in Pennsylvania
Contaminated Water Supplies, Health Concerns Accumulate With Fracking Boom in Pennsylvania
"As the first official research is published that confirms water contamination by hydraulic fracturing, an alarming amount and array of hazardous chemicals and compounds - including arsenic, chloride, barium and radium - are found in Pennsylvania groundwater."
"As the first official research is published that confirms water contamination by hydraulic fracturing, an alarming amount and array of hazardous chemicals and compounds - including arsenic, chloride, barium and radium - are found in Pennsylvania groundwater."
The 5 Craziest Things That GOP Lawmakers Said About Abortion Last Night
www.thinkprogress.org/health/2014/03/13/3400851/sba-fundraiser-abortion/
"Republicans have struggled with effectively connecting with female voters over the past several years, and insensitive comments related to abortion access actually cost some GOP candidates their races in 2012. Nonetheless, the party has recently indicated it has no plans to back down from this issue. The RNC recently approved a “Resolution on Republican Pro-Life Strategy” that urges GOP candidates to speak openly about their firm opposition to abortion — and many lawmakers are already taking that to heart."
"Republicans have struggled with effectively connecting with female voters over the past several years, and insensitive comments related to abortion access actually cost some GOP candidates their races in 2012. Nonetheless, the party has recently indicated it has no plans to back down from this issue. The RNC recently approved a “Resolution on Republican Pro-Life Strategy” that urges GOP candidates to speak openly about their firm opposition to abortion — and many lawmakers are already taking that to heart."
3 States Trying To Follow In Texas’ Footsteps And Shut Down Abortion Clinics
www.thinkprogress.org/health/2014/03/13/3400691/other-states-texas-abortion-clinics/
"Texas isn’t the first state to shut down abortion clinics, and it won’t be the last."
"Texas isn’t the first state to shut down abortion clinics, and it won’t be the last."
Watch an expert teach a smug U.S. senator about Canadian healthcare
www.latimes.com/business/hiltzik/la-fi-mh-watch-a-canadian-20140312,0,2995139.story#axzz2vqTnE6RP
"A U.S. politician's I-don't-need-no-stinkin'-facts approach to health policy ran smack into some of those troublesome facts Tuesday at a Senate hearing on single-payer healthcare, as it's practiced in Canada and several other countries."
"A U.S. politician's I-don't-need-no-stinkin'-facts approach to health policy ran smack into some of those troublesome facts Tuesday at a Senate hearing on single-payer healthcare, as it's practiced in Canada and several other countries."
Notorious Smear Merchants Launch Super PAC
www.mediamatters.org/blog/2014/03/12/notorious-smear-merchants-launch-super-pac/198459
"The conservatives behind some of the worst political smear campaigns have started a super PAC.
Takeover Super PAC is backed by a team that includes Joseph Farah, founder of the fringe conspiracy site WND; Jerome Corsi, a leading member of the Swift Boat and birther campaigns; and Floyd Brown, producer of the racist Willie Horton ads."
"The conservatives behind some of the worst political smear campaigns have started a super PAC.
Takeover Super PAC is backed by a team that includes Joseph Farah, founder of the fringe conspiracy site WND; Jerome Corsi, a leading member of the Swift Boat and birther campaigns; and Floyd Brown, producer of the racist Willie Horton ads."
Wendy Davis Slams Greg Abbott for His Donors Getting $42 Million in Taxpayer Money
www.politicususa.com/2014/03/13/wendy-davis-slams-greg-abbott-donors-42-million-contracts.html
"This isn’t the only issue Abbott is silent on, he’s also avoiding discussing equal pay for women. Here’s a clue: When a Texas Republican won’t discuss their stance on women’s issues, it’s probably not good"
"This isn’t the only issue Abbott is silent on, he’s also avoiding discussing equal pay for women. Here’s a clue: When a Texas Republican won’t discuss their stance on women’s issues, it’s probably not good"
GOP’s sleazy pickup artists: Why their lame lines will never work on women
GOP’s sleazy pickup artists: Why their lame lines will never work on women
"The right thinks it has a new way to woo female voters. Unfortunately for them, women aren't as dumb as they think"
"The right thinks it has a new way to woo female voters. Unfortunately for them, women aren't as dumb as they think"
Fox Promised To Follow Up On Obamacare Horror Story -- What About Now That It's A Success Story?
www.mediamatters.org/blog/2014/03/11/fox-promised-to-follow-up-on-obamacare-horror-s/198446
"Fox News promised to stay in touch with the cancer patient at the center of one of right-wing activists' favorite Obamacare horror stories. But now that new reports show it is actually an Obamacare success story, as the woman who worried the Affordable Care Act was "unaffordable" will now save approximately $1,000 a year under the new law, will Fox make good on its promise?"
"Fox News promised to stay in touch with the cancer patient at the center of one of right-wing activists' favorite Obamacare horror stories. But now that new reports show it is actually an Obamacare success story, as the woman who worried the Affordable Care Act was "unaffordable" will now save approximately $1,000 a year under the new law, will Fox make good on its promise?"
Fox's Kelly Continues Doom and Gloom on Obamacare Even as Enrollments Surge
Fox's Kelly Continues Doom and Gloom on Obamacare Even as Enrollments Surge
"I'm not sure what positive news would ever make the talking heads over at Faux "news" finally quit beating up on the health care law that their side used to embrace -- or did before the Kenyan, Socialist, Communist, tyrant, mom-jeans-wearing, Marxist President Obama decided to sign what used to be considered Bob Dole, the Heritage Foundation and/or Mitt Romney's Republican health care plan into law."
"I'm not sure what positive news would ever make the talking heads over at Faux "news" finally quit beating up on the health care law that their side used to embrace -- or did before the Kenyan, Socialist, Communist, tyrant, mom-jeans-wearing, Marxist President Obama decided to sign what used to be considered Bob Dole, the Heritage Foundation and/or Mitt Romney's Republican health care plan into law."
SEE: How To Attack A Democracy, In A Single Image
www.addictinginfo.org/2014/03/13/kochtopus-koch-brothers-democracy/
"Over the past 30 years, the Koch brothers have slowly but surely used their wealth to infiltrate and take over our political system and processes. Because for them, $92 billion isn’t enough. They will not be satisfied until they’ve polluted all of our air and water, and have left us so economically desperate we’ll toil away in their coal mines and oil fields 80 hours a week for just pennies per day."
"Over the past 30 years, the Koch brothers have slowly but surely used their wealth to infiltrate and take over our political system and processes. Because for them, $92 billion isn’t enough. They will not be satisfied until they’ve polluted all of our air and water, and have left us so economically desperate we’ll toil away in their coal mines and oil fields 80 hours a week for just pennies per day."
Climate Change Denying Koch Brothers Are Deemed a Threat to National Security
www.politicususa.com/2014/03/12/climate-change-denying-koch-brothers-deemed-threat-national-security.html
"The Pentagon’s report, 2014 Quadrennial Defense Review, identified the impacts of climate change they call “threat multipliers” that “will increase the frequency, scale, and complexity of future missions,” and outlines some “creative ways” of addressing them. The QDR reports that climate change will “devastate homes, land, and infrastructure,” as well as “exacerbate water scarcity and lead to sharp increases in food costs.” According to the QDR, the desperation that many people, particularly in poorer regions like southern America, will face due to climate change impacts could lead to “resource competition” and “terrorist activity. The pressure caused by climate change will influence resource competition while placing additional burdens on economies, societies, and governance institutions around the world. These effects are threat multipliers that will aggravate stressors such as poverty, environmental degradation, political instability, and social tensions; conditions that enable terrorist activity and other forms of violence"."
"The Pentagon’s report, 2014 Quadrennial Defense Review, identified the impacts of climate change they call “threat multipliers” that “will increase the frequency, scale, and complexity of future missions,” and outlines some “creative ways” of addressing them. The QDR reports that climate change will “devastate homes, land, and infrastructure,” as well as “exacerbate water scarcity and lead to sharp increases in food costs.” According to the QDR, the desperation that many people, particularly in poorer regions like southern America, will face due to climate change impacts could lead to “resource competition” and “terrorist activity. The pressure caused by climate change will influence resource competition while placing additional burdens on economies, societies, and governance institutions around the world. These effects are threat multipliers that will aggravate stressors such as poverty, environmental degradation, political instability, and social tensions; conditions that enable terrorist activity and other forms of violence"."
Broadcast News Networks Completely Ignore The Taxpayer Cost Of Low Wages
www.addictinginfo.org/2014/03/12/broadcast-news-networks-completely-ignore-the-taxpayer-cost-of-low-wages/
"Today’s welfare queens are corporations. McDonald’s actually has a resource line for how to apply for government assistance. Walmart employees make up the biggest segment of U.S. workers on public assistance. These companies, which rake in massive profits, should have no need for such subsidizing. And yet, they insist on taking advantage of welfare in ways that most of us probably never thought they would.
So Fox News and Republicans want to keep the minimum wage where it is, and continue making cuts to welfare programs. The facts are that they can’t have both. To save taxpayer dollars on assistance programs, we should definitely raise the minimum wage. This is something that our traditional news networks should start studying, and reporting."
"Today’s welfare queens are corporations. McDonald’s actually has a resource line for how to apply for government assistance. Walmart employees make up the biggest segment of U.S. workers on public assistance. These companies, which rake in massive profits, should have no need for such subsidizing. And yet, they insist on taking advantage of welfare in ways that most of us probably never thought they would.
So Fox News and Republicans want to keep the minimum wage where it is, and continue making cuts to welfare programs. The facts are that they can’t have both. To save taxpayer dollars on assistance programs, we should definitely raise the minimum wage. This is something that our traditional news networks should start studying, and reporting."
Paul Ryan’s worthless attempt to save face: Why he’s still an overrated fraud
Paul Ryan’s worthless attempt to save face: Why he’s still an overrated fraud
"From Ayn Rand to Charles Murray, he thinks the rich deserve their wealth and the poor are to blame for their misery"
"From Ayn Rand to Charles Murray, he thinks the rich deserve their wealth and the poor are to blame for their misery"
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