Republicans’ private terror: Why they despise the modern American state — and embrace fanaticism
"After 50 years, this relentless process of ideological purification has produced a party whose electoral appeal is almost wholly confined to rural and suburban whites, most of whom reside in Southern states. In the 2012 presidential election, the South provided 72 percent of Mitt Romney’s electoral votes."
Monday, March 23, 2015
Let’s All Watch Rick Santorum Being Screamed at By a Completely Crazy Person Who Hates Barack Obama
http://thedailybanter.com/2015/03/lets-all-watch-rick-santorum-being-screamed-at/
"It apparently ended when the woman was dragged away while shouting that Obama was planning to nuke Charleston.
It won’t surprise you to learn that Santorum, while seemingly stunned throughout the entire rant, recovered quickly and, rather than correcting any of the authentic frontier gibberish he’d just heard, actually answered this lunatic.
“I’m not a sitting member of the Senate, so I’m not taking blame for any of that stuff,” he said. “But you hit on one point to which I absolutely agree: this is a complete lack of leadership.” And there you have it: the modern American right in a nutshell. Pun absolutely intended."
"It apparently ended when the woman was dragged away while shouting that Obama was planning to nuke Charleston.
It won’t surprise you to learn that Santorum, while seemingly stunned throughout the entire rant, recovered quickly and, rather than correcting any of the authentic frontier gibberish he’d just heard, actually answered this lunatic.
“I’m not a sitting member of the Senate, so I’m not taking blame for any of that stuff,” he said. “But you hit on one point to which I absolutely agree: this is a complete lack of leadership.” And there you have it: the modern American right in a nutshell. Pun absolutely intended."
Insane Santorum Fan Calls Obama A ‘Communist Dictator,’ He Refuses To Correct Her (VIDEO)
http://www.addictinginfo.org/2015/03/19/insane-santorum-fan-calls-obama-a-communist-dictator-he-refuses-to-correct-her-video/
"this is what happens after years of existing on a steady diet of Fox News fear-mongering and right wing hate radio. This is what happens when you spend a lifetime marinating in this hate."
"this is what happens after years of existing on a steady diet of Fox News fear-mongering and right wing hate radio. This is what happens when you spend a lifetime marinating in this hate."
The Christian Right Still Dominates the GOP -- Is There Any End in Sight? | Alternet
The Christian Right Still Dominates the GOP -- Is There Any End in Sight? | Alternet
"If you were trying to come up with a quick-and-dirty description of the Republican Party, “coalition of corporate and patriarchal religious interests” would be it."
"If you were trying to come up with a quick-and-dirty description of the Republican Party, “coalition of corporate and patriarchal religious interests” would be it."
Comparing Republican “Christian Values” To Islamic Fundamentalism
Comparing Republican “Christian Values” To Islamic Fundamentalism
"Let’s also not forget that both right-wing evangelicals and Islamic fundamentalists believe that a nation should be ruled by religion, also know as a theocratic form of government. Both groups believe their rights are given to them by God (or Allah), not the government. And while many Islamic nations on this planet are indeed ruled by religion, it is our secularist Constitution which has prevented Christian radicals here from ruling this nation as the theocracy they wished it was."
"Let’s also not forget that both right-wing evangelicals and Islamic fundamentalists believe that a nation should be ruled by religion, also know as a theocratic form of government. Both groups believe their rights are given to them by God (or Allah), not the government. And while many Islamic nations on this planet are indeed ruled by religion, it is our secularist Constitution which has prevented Christian radicals here from ruling this nation as the theocracy they wished it was."
GOP’s “scam artist” problem: Mike Huckabee & the right’s tradition of organized theft
GOP’s “scam artist” problem: Mike Huckabee & the right’s tradition of organized theft
"The sheer size of the conservative scam machine and the involvement of some of the most prominent names in Republican politics are the consequence of the decades spent transforming conservatism into an insular political movement. Conservatives are explicitly told not to trust anyone or anything that exists outside the movement, and to put their faith in the “conservative” alternatives. TV news is biased, so watch Fox News. NPR is full of sneaky liberals, but Rush Limbaugh will tell it straight. “Scientists” tell you the climate is changing, but they have an agenda and Jim Inhofe can blow it apart with nothing more than a snowball. When you’ve conditioned people to associate “conservative” with “trustworthy,” all manner of mischief can be perpetrated. Add in the desperation felt by people struggling with dangerous illnesses, and you’ve got a population that’s ripe for exploitation.
And that’s what Huckabee does. He exploits desperate people who trust him. He’s part of a grand conservative tradition of leveraging one’s political celebrity to bleed dry the people who form the bedrock of the movement. Looking at this behavior, you can’t help but conclude that it demonstrates little but contempt for some of the most vulnerable people in the country."
"The sheer size of the conservative scam machine and the involvement of some of the most prominent names in Republican politics are the consequence of the decades spent transforming conservatism into an insular political movement. Conservatives are explicitly told not to trust anyone or anything that exists outside the movement, and to put their faith in the “conservative” alternatives. TV news is biased, so watch Fox News. NPR is full of sneaky liberals, but Rush Limbaugh will tell it straight. “Scientists” tell you the climate is changing, but they have an agenda and Jim Inhofe can blow it apart with nothing more than a snowball. When you’ve conditioned people to associate “conservative” with “trustworthy,” all manner of mischief can be perpetrated. Add in the desperation felt by people struggling with dangerous illnesses, and you’ve got a population that’s ripe for exploitation.
And that’s what Huckabee does. He exploits desperate people who trust him. He’s part of a grand conservative tradition of leveraging one’s political celebrity to bleed dry the people who form the bedrock of the movement. Looking at this behavior, you can’t help but conclude that it demonstrates little but contempt for some of the most vulnerable people in the country."
We can’t believe we have to explain this: Diabetes can’t be cured with cinnamon rolls
We can’t believe we have to explain this: Diabetes can’t be cured with cinnamon rolls
"Presidential hopeful and “former diabetic” Mike Huckabee was recently spotted in a low-budget Internet informercial which claims that cinnamon rolls “contain a real ingredient that reverses diabetes.”
And with that, welcome back to “We can’t believe we have to explain this"."
"Presidential hopeful and “former diabetic” Mike Huckabee was recently spotted in a low-budget Internet informercial which claims that cinnamon rolls “contain a real ingredient that reverses diabetes.”
And with that, welcome back to “We can’t believe we have to explain this"."
Rick Santorum’s Plan To Save America: A Christian Theocracy
Rick Santorum’s Plan To Save America: A Christian Theocracy
"The First Amendment reads “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the government for a redress of grievances.” Make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof. We are not meant to be a theocracy. Every citizen has the right to worship, or not worship, whatever deity they choose, without government interference. Rick Santorum and the rest of the American Taliban cannot force Christianity upon us anymore than a Muslim or a Buddhist or a Wiccan or a Jew can force their beliefs upon us. We cannot have a president who believes Christianity should be the only religion allowed in America. We cannot have a president who says the idea of the separation of church and state makes him want to throw up."
"The First Amendment reads “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the government for a redress of grievances.” Make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof. We are not meant to be a theocracy. Every citizen has the right to worship, or not worship, whatever deity they choose, without government interference. Rick Santorum and the rest of the American Taliban cannot force Christianity upon us anymore than a Muslim or a Buddhist or a Wiccan or a Jew can force their beliefs upon us. We cannot have a president who believes Christianity should be the only religion allowed in America. We cannot have a president who says the idea of the separation of church and state makes him want to throw up."
Walker Budget Sneaks Major Policy Changes Past Education Agency
Walker Budget Sneaks Major Policy Changes Past Education Agency
"Advancing the privatization of the public school system, and turning community schools into for-profit money-making operations, has long been an American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC) priority."
"Advancing the privatization of the public school system, and turning community schools into for-profit money-making operations, has long been an American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC) priority."
Republicans Want to Turn Back the Clock on the Constitution
http://www.truth-out.org/opinion/item/29679-republicans-want-to-turn-back-the-clock-on-the-constitution
"These guys are so committed to the "Caucus Room conspiracy" that was hatched the night Obama was inaugurated that they will do whatever it takes to stop our nation's first Black president from achieving any sort of meaningful success.
They've already shut down the government, brought the nation to brink of fiscal crisis and filibustered countless pieces of legislation.
Now they're dragging us back to the dark days before we even had a Constitution, which essentially means they're willing to turn back the clock on the entire US democratic experiment just so they can sabotage President Obama.
The Republican Party now officially belongs in the dustbin of history. It's time to dissolve it with a RICO complaint, and bring back the federalists or the whigs."
"These guys are so committed to the "Caucus Room conspiracy" that was hatched the night Obama was inaugurated that they will do whatever it takes to stop our nation's first Black president from achieving any sort of meaningful success.
They've already shut down the government, brought the nation to brink of fiscal crisis and filibustered countless pieces of legislation.
Now they're dragging us back to the dark days before we even had a Constitution, which essentially means they're willing to turn back the clock on the entire US democratic experiment just so they can sabotage President Obama.
The Republican Party now officially belongs in the dustbin of history. It's time to dissolve it with a RICO complaint, and bring back the federalists or the whigs."
Christie Shifted NJ Pension Cash To Donor’s Foreign Firm
Christie Shifted NJ Pension Cash To Donor’s Foreign Firm
"Two years ago, as New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie pursued re-election, his administration found itself mulling investment options for the state’s $80 billion pension fund. In one deal in May 2013, officials settled on a subsidiary of U.K.-based foreign financial conglomerate Prudential plc. With little fanfare, state pension overseers quickly endorsed the deal.
Weeks later, a Hong Kong-based executive director and board member of Prudential plc delivered a maximum $3,800 contribution to Christie’s gubernatorial campaign, followed by a maximum $32,400 donation to the Republican National Committee, which was about to launch a get-out-the-vote effort for Christie. Two months after that, New Jersey began moving public employees’ retirement savings into two funds managed by the Prudential subsidiary as part of the state’s new $300 million investment commitment to the company.
State and federal rules are designed to prevent firms that manage public pension money from contributing to the campaigns of public officials who have the authority to influence pension investments. The sequence of transactions in New Jersey, campaign finance experts say, is troubling."
"Two years ago, as New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie pursued re-election, his administration found itself mulling investment options for the state’s $80 billion pension fund. In one deal in May 2013, officials settled on a subsidiary of U.K.-based foreign financial conglomerate Prudential plc. With little fanfare, state pension overseers quickly endorsed the deal.
Weeks later, a Hong Kong-based executive director and board member of Prudential plc delivered a maximum $3,800 contribution to Christie’s gubernatorial campaign, followed by a maximum $32,400 donation to the Republican National Committee, which was about to launch a get-out-the-vote effort for Christie. Two months after that, New Jersey began moving public employees’ retirement savings into two funds managed by the Prudential subsidiary as part of the state’s new $300 million investment commitment to the company.
State and federal rules are designed to prevent firms that manage public pension money from contributing to the campaigns of public officials who have the authority to influence pension investments. The sequence of transactions in New Jersey, campaign finance experts say, is troubling."
Huckabee's Diabetes Snake Oil Pays For His Campaign While Killing People
Huckabee's Diabetes Snake Oil Pays For His Campaign While Killing People
"I take it as a given that Huckabee is a grifter. But when that grifting is done to finance a bid for the 2016 presidential nomination and said grifting has the ability to actually kill people, it's time to draw a line and call him out for unprincipled and greedy practices."
"I take it as a given that Huckabee is a grifter. But when that grifting is done to finance a bid for the 2016 presidential nomination and said grifting has the ability to actually kill people, it's time to draw a line and call him out for unprincipled and greedy practices."
Obama White House Hammers Mitch McConnell For Lying About Loretta Lynch Vote
http://www.politicususa.com/2015/03/16/obama-white-house-hammers-mitch-mcconnell-lying-loretta-lynch-vote.html
"Senate Republicans are desperate to prove that they can pass legislation over Democratic objections. The problem is that they can’t pass legislation without working with Democrats. By blocking a vote on Lynch, McConnell is compounding his problems by denying the Senate at least one accomplishment.
McConnell is denying the nation a new attorney general because he needs to pass a bill and get a “win.” Mitch McConnell is getting desperate, and the Obama White House is calling out the Senate Majority Leader’s lie on the Lynch nomination."
"Senate Republicans are desperate to prove that they can pass legislation over Democratic objections. The problem is that they can’t pass legislation without working with Democrats. By blocking a vote on Lynch, McConnell is compounding his problems by denying the Senate at least one accomplishment.
McConnell is denying the nation a new attorney general because he needs to pass a bill and get a “win.” Mitch McConnell is getting desperate, and the Obama White House is calling out the Senate Majority Leader’s lie on the Lynch nomination."
Republicans get whiny after White House points out they can't govern
http://www.dailykos.com/story/2015/03/16/1371247/-Republicans-get-whiny-after-White-House-points-out-GOP-can-t-govern
"So far, Republicans have spent weeks bashing their heads against Department of Homeland Security funding before caving on it, have passed a few things they know President Obama won't sign, and otherwise have struggled to do jack squat."
"So far, Republicans have spent weeks bashing their heads against Department of Homeland Security funding before caving on it, have passed a few things they know President Obama won't sign, and otherwise have struggled to do jack squat."
WI Supreme Court Candidate Does Full Corporate Press
WI Supreme Court Candidate Does Full Corporate Press
"Daley has also gone on the record that he is quite comfortable receiving all the dark money from special interest groups, just as the four Supreme Corporate Injustices and sees no reason for these injustices to recuse themselves in cases involving their donors. This stance goes against United Supreme Court rulings, but hey, in Wisconsin, laws are optional for the corporate Republicans."
"Daley has also gone on the record that he is quite comfortable receiving all the dark money from special interest groups, just as the four Supreme Corporate Injustices and sees no reason for these injustices to recuse themselves in cases involving their donors. This stance goes against United Supreme Court rulings, but hey, in Wisconsin, laws are optional for the corporate Republicans."
Tom Cotton’s Unpatriotic Forefathers: Treasonous Iran Letter Not First Time GOP Has Crossed the Line | Alternet
Tom Cotton’s Unpatriotic Forefathers: Treasonous Iran Letter Not First Time GOP Has Crossed the Line | Alternet
"The Republican senators who warned Iranian officials that any agreement they made with President Obama would not outlive the present administration appear to have been blindsided by the backlash against their letter. Republicans as well as Democrats have responded to the move with such fury that unnamed sources clumsily suggested the letter was only a “cheeky” reminder that Congress should have a voice in negotiations. Sen. John McCain downplayed the extraordinary letter as business as usual: “I sign lots of letters,” he told Politico.
But the firestorm continues to rage. Newspaper editorials slam the senators who signed the bill; more than a quarter of a million people have signed a petition calling for the senators to be tried for treason; #47Traitors has been trending on Twitter. Why has this letter garnered such a visceral reaction when attacks on the president and his policies are the everyday currency of the modern Republican Party?
It has created a backlash because it shows, with crystal clarity, that the ideology of Movement Conservatives is not simply partisanship. It is an attack on American democracy itself."
"The Republican senators who warned Iranian officials that any agreement they made with President Obama would not outlive the present administration appear to have been blindsided by the backlash against their letter. Republicans as well as Democrats have responded to the move with such fury that unnamed sources clumsily suggested the letter was only a “cheeky” reminder that Congress should have a voice in negotiations. Sen. John McCain downplayed the extraordinary letter as business as usual: “I sign lots of letters,” he told Politico.
But the firestorm continues to rage. Newspaper editorials slam the senators who signed the bill; more than a quarter of a million people have signed a petition calling for the senators to be tried for treason; #47Traitors has been trending on Twitter. Why has this letter garnered such a visceral reaction when attacks on the president and his policies are the everyday currency of the modern Republican Party?
It has created a backlash because it shows, with crystal clarity, that the ideology of Movement Conservatives is not simply partisanship. It is an attack on American democracy itself."
WSJ Has Weekend Weepfest Over DOJ Campaign Finance Law Enforcement
WSJ Has Weekend Weepfest Over DOJ Campaign Finance Law Enforcement
"This little gem of a weep session features Kimberley Strassel and her gang of pundits had a big wet crying together over the Department of Justice's resolve to enforce egregious violations of campaign finance laws."
"This little gem of a weep session features Kimberley Strassel and her gang of pundits had a big wet crying together over the Department of Justice's resolve to enforce egregious violations of campaign finance laws."
Michigan Revives Plan To Rig Electoral College To Help Republicans Win White House
Michigan Revives Plan To Rig Electoral College To Help Republicans Win White House
"Maybe it's time we just scrap the electoral college all together? In the meantime, I'm sure we'll see more states controlled by Republicans making these sort of moves."
"Maybe it's time we just scrap the electoral college all together? In the meantime, I'm sure we'll see more states controlled by Republicans making these sort of moves."
Friday, March 20, 2015
Up Next on the GOP's To-Do List: Selling US National Forests
http://www.truth-out.org/opinion/item/29763-up-next-on-the-gop-s-to-do-list-selling-us-national-forests
"Several parties have drawn up a proposal for the House GOP budget resolution that calls for the seizure and sale of US national forests and public land."
"Several parties have drawn up a proposal for the House GOP budget resolution that calls for the seizure and sale of US national forests and public land."
The Movie Climate Science Deniers Don’t Want You To See
http://thinkprogress.org/climate/2015/03/19/3635437/merchants-of-doubt/
"The now-classic book “Merchants of Doubt: How a Handful of Scientists Obscured the Truth on Issues from Tobacco Smoke to Global Warming” has been made into a must-see documentary."
"The now-classic book “Merchants of Doubt: How a Handful of Scientists Obscured the Truth on Issues from Tobacco Smoke to Global Warming” has been made into a must-see documentary."
GOP's Corporate Lackies Block Climate Change Science At Every Turn
GOP's Corporate Lackies Block Climate Change Science At Every Turn
"Republicans are the original party of "see no evil." Like toddlers, they think if they close their eyes, "You can't see me!" Can't wait to see how that philosophy works out!"
"Republicans are the original party of "see no evil." Like toddlers, they think if they close their eyes, "You can't see me!" Can't wait to see how that philosophy works out!"
The Only Place It Was Cold This Winter Was The East Coast Of The United States
http://thinkprogress.org/climate/2015/03/18/3635560/noaa-hottest-winter/
"Now entering its fourth year, the drought in California is so bad that NASA senior water scientist Jay Famiglietti warned that “the state has only about one year of water supply left in its reservoirs, and our strategic backup supply, groundwater, is rapidly disappearing.” Global warming-driven record heat has made this the worst California drought in 1200 years, as scientists explained in December.
The Earth keeps setting the record for the hottest 12 months in the surface temperature record, as we reported Saturday. NOAA’s global data show we’ve started this year at a record pace — and early indications are that March will be warm globally — so we are on track for what is likely to be the hottest calendar year on record."
"Now entering its fourth year, the drought in California is so bad that NASA senior water scientist Jay Famiglietti warned that “the state has only about one year of water supply left in its reservoirs, and our strategic backup supply, groundwater, is rapidly disappearing.” Global warming-driven record heat has made this the worst California drought in 1200 years, as scientists explained in December.
The Earth keeps setting the record for the hottest 12 months in the surface temperature record, as we reported Saturday. NOAA’s global data show we’ve started this year at a record pace — and early indications are that March will be warm globally — so we are on track for what is likely to be the hottest calendar year on record."
Tuesday, March 17, 2015
Monday, March 16, 2015
Scott Walker Is the Worst Candidate for the Environment
http://www.motherjones.com/environment/2015/03/scott-walker-environment-climate-change-2016
"Koch Industries gave $43,000 to Walker's 2010 election campaign, and just after he took office, the Kochs doubled their lobbying force in Madison. In 2011 and 2012, David Koch and Americans for Prosperity spent $11 million backing Walker's agenda and his successful effort to avoid being recalled."
"Koch Industries gave $43,000 to Walker's 2010 election campaign, and just after he took office, the Kochs doubled their lobbying force in Madison. In 2011 and 2012, David Koch and Americans for Prosperity spent $11 million backing Walker's agenda and his successful effort to avoid being recalled."
Koch Industries refuses to comply with US senators' climate investigation
http://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2015/mar/13/koch-industries-refuses-senators-climate-investigation
"The Koch brothers’ conglomerate Koch Industries has refused to comply with an investigation by three Senate Democrats into whether the company has funded groups or researchers who deny or cast doubt on climate change."
"The Koch brothers’ conglomerate Koch Industries has refused to comply with an investigation by three Senate Democrats into whether the company has funded groups or researchers who deny or cast doubt on climate change."
What Would Happen If Wind Power Got The Same Tax Breaks As The Fossil Fuel Industry
http://thinkprogress.org/climate/2015/03/13/3632999/wind-can-grow-but-it-probably-wont/
"America could get 10 percent of its power from wind by 2020; 20 percent by 2030; and 35 percent by 2050, the report said."
"America could get 10 percent of its power from wind by 2020; 20 percent by 2030; and 35 percent by 2050, the report said."
In Republicans’ ‘War On Nature,’ California Gets A Big Win
http://thinkprogress.org/climate/2015/03/14/3633852/california-gets-major-new-marine-haven/
"Described as the “blue Serengeti” by scientists for their nutrient-rich areas, the sanctuaries support a diverse array of marine life, including 25 endangered or threatened species, 36 marine mammals, and more than a quarter million breeding seabirds, the largest colony of seabirds in the U.S. While the broadening of these wildlife havens had near unanimous local support in the Bay Area, previous attempts in Congress to pass their expansion had failed due to oil and gas industry opposition."
"Described as the “blue Serengeti” by scientists for their nutrient-rich areas, the sanctuaries support a diverse array of marine life, including 25 endangered or threatened species, 36 marine mammals, and more than a quarter million breeding seabirds, the largest colony of seabirds in the U.S. While the broadening of these wildlife havens had near unanimous local support in the Bay Area, previous attempts in Congress to pass their expansion had failed due to oil and gas industry opposition."
NASA: Earth Tops Hottest 12 Months On Record Again, Thanks To Warm February
http://thinkprogress.org/climate/2015/03/15/3630404/nasa-hottest-12-months-record/
"There had never been as hot a 12-month period in NASA’s database as February 2014–January 2015. But that turned out to be a very short-lived record.
NASA reported this weekend that last month was the second-hottest February on record, which now makes March 2014–February 2015 the hottest 12 months on record."
"There had never been as hot a 12-month period in NASA’s database as February 2014–January 2015. But that turned out to be a very short-lived record.
NASA reported this weekend that last month was the second-hottest February on record, which now makes March 2014–February 2015 the hottest 12 months on record."
The Economic Fallout of the Freeze on Ohio’s Clean Energy Sector
https://www.americanprogress.org/issues/green/report/2015/03/10/108251/the-economic-fallout-of-the-freeze-on-ohios-clean-energy-sector/
"Passed in 2008 with overwhelming bipartisan support, Ohio’s renewable energy and energy-efficiency standards proved unambiguously successful in spurring economic progress in the state. Among their benefits were increased in-state investment and energy development, new jobs for Ohioans, and decreased electricity bills.
Despite broad public support for these standards, the Ohio legislature passed S.B. 310 in May 2014, which froze the state’s ramp-up schedules for renewable energy and energy efficiency. It subsequently passed H.B. 483, which dramatically increased the setback requirements for wind turbines. Gov. John Kasich (R) signed both bills into law in June 2014."
"Passed in 2008 with overwhelming bipartisan support, Ohio’s renewable energy and energy-efficiency standards proved unambiguously successful in spurring economic progress in the state. Among their benefits were increased in-state investment and energy development, new jobs for Ohioans, and decreased electricity bills.
Despite broad public support for these standards, the Ohio legislature passed S.B. 310 in May 2014, which froze the state’s ramp-up schedules for renewable energy and energy efficiency. It subsequently passed H.B. 483, which dramatically increased the setback requirements for wind turbines. Gov. John Kasich (R) signed both bills into law in June 2014."
The Quiet Plan To Sell Off America’s National Forests
http://thinkprogress.org/climate/2015/03/16/3633814/gop-budget-public-lands/
"Despite these concerns — and despite the fact that these proposals are extremely expensive, unpopular, and most importantly, unconstitutional — there is a strong likelihood that Rep. Bishop’s request will be included in the House GOP’s budget, thanks to intensive lobbying efforts by a handful of right wing politicians and special interest groups."
"Despite these concerns — and despite the fact that these proposals are extremely expensive, unpopular, and most importantly, unconstitutional — there is a strong likelihood that Rep. Bishop’s request will be included in the House GOP’s budget, thanks to intensive lobbying efforts by a handful of right wing politicians and special interest groups."
Senator Whitehouse Exposes ALEC Climate Change Denial
Senator Whitehouse Exposes ALEC Climate Change Denial
"Sponsorship opportunities at ALEC conferences, held three times annually, are offered at several different levels. Its “President” level during its annual meeting comes with a $100,000 price tag, which Chevron, BP and Shell have all paid for in the past and its “Chairman” level at $50,000, which ExxonMobil has forked over.
The conferences, which bring together state legislators and corporate lobbyists, include “policy workshops,” that are also paid for by corporations at $40,000 for a session during ALEC’s annual meeting."
"Sponsorship opportunities at ALEC conferences, held three times annually, are offered at several different levels. Its “President” level during its annual meeting comes with a $100,000 price tag, which Chevron, BP and Shell have all paid for in the past and its “Chairman” level at $50,000, which ExxonMobil has forked over.
The conferences, which bring together state legislators and corporate lobbyists, include “policy workshops,” that are also paid for by corporations at $40,000 for a session during ALEC’s annual meeting."
The Ugly Truth Behind Chris Christie's Sweetheart Deal with Exxon | Alternet
The Ugly Truth Behind Chris Christie's Sweetheart Deal with Exxon | Alternet
"Last week, Republican Gov. Chris Christie's administration settled New Jersey's long-standing environmental lawsuit against Exxon Mobil Corp. for pennies on the dollar. For a decade, the state had been seeking $8.9 billion in damages for pollution at two refineries in the northern part of the state, and yet Christie's top officials abruptly proposed closing the case for just $225 million."
"Last week, Republican Gov. Chris Christie's administration settled New Jersey's long-standing environmental lawsuit against Exxon Mobil Corp. for pennies on the dollar. For a decade, the state had been seeking $8.9 billion in damages for pollution at two refineries in the northern part of the state, and yet Christie's top officials abruptly proposed closing the case for just $225 million."
How the Media Fails to Explain the Basic Science that Proves Climate Change | Alternet
How the Media Fails to Explain the Basic Science that Proves Climate Change | Alternet
"In the great media universe, it would be great to have at least a few instances of dealing with the science."
"In the great media universe, it would be great to have at least a few instances of dealing with the science."
California Will Soon Be Home To The Country’s Largest Floating Solar Array
http://thinkprogress.org/climate/2015/03/12/3633029/floating-solar-in-california/
"Sonoma Clean Power in California’s wine country has announced that it will be building the largest floating solar array in the U.S., a project that’s scheduled to be completed in 2016 and will create enough energy to power 3,000 houses. The array will span six wastewater ponds filled with treated sewage."
"Sonoma Clean Power in California’s wine country has announced that it will be building the largest floating solar array in the U.S., a project that’s scheduled to be completed in 2016 and will create enough energy to power 3,000 houses. The array will span six wastewater ponds filled with treated sewage."
Saturday, March 14, 2015
California only has one year’s worth of its water supply left, NASA scientist warns
California only has one year’s worth of its water supply left, NASA scientist warns
"Plagued by prolonged drought, California now has only enough water to get it through the next year, according to NASA.
In an op-ed published Thursday by the Los Angeles Times, Jay Famiglietti, a senior water scientist at the NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory in California, painted a dire picture of the state's water crisis. California, he writes, has lost around 12 million acre-feet of stored water every year since 2011. In the Sacramento and San Joaquin river basins, the combined water sources of snow, rivers, reservoirs, soil water and groundwater amounted to a volume that was 34 million acre-feet below normal levels in 2014. And there is no relief in sight."
"Plagued by prolonged drought, California now has only enough water to get it through the next year, according to NASA.
In an op-ed published Thursday by the Los Angeles Times, Jay Famiglietti, a senior water scientist at the NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory in California, painted a dire picture of the state's water crisis. California, he writes, has lost around 12 million acre-feet of stored water every year since 2011. In the Sacramento and San Joaquin river basins, the combined water sources of snow, rivers, reservoirs, soil water and groundwater amounted to a volume that was 34 million acre-feet below normal levels in 2014. And there is no relief in sight."
Report: Solar Will Dominate World Energy Supply in Just 15 Years | Alternet
Report: Solar Will Dominate World Energy Supply in Just 15 Years | Alternet
"Deutsche Bank has produced a 175 page report that will have the Koch bros and their bought and paid for minions as well as every oil, coal and natural gas company weeping in their Chevas Regal or Glenfiddich.
The report suggests that solar generated energy will be the dominant source of energy worldwide within the next 15 years. Not only that, but the solar industry will generate $5 trillion in revenue in that time while displacing fossil fuels."
"Deutsche Bank has produced a 175 page report that will have the Koch bros and their bought and paid for minions as well as every oil, coal and natural gas company weeping in their Chevas Regal or Glenfiddich.
The report suggests that solar generated energy will be the dominant source of energy worldwide within the next 15 years. Not only that, but the solar industry will generate $5 trillion in revenue in that time while displacing fossil fuels."
Take a lesson, climate deniers and Fox News know-nothings
Take a lesson, climate deniers and Fox News know-nothings
"Here's a history of knowledge and science that far too many Tea Partyers need to grapple with now"
"Here's a history of knowledge and science that far too many Tea Partyers need to grapple with now"
At Least Four States Are Pushing Koch-Backed Legislation To Ban Funding EPA’s Climate Rule
http://thinkprogress.org/climate/2015/03/13/3633452/state-resolutions-ban-epa-climate-rule/
"All four of those groups are active in promoting anti-climate and anti-clean energy policies. AFP and ALEC do so particularly through model legislation, which provides states with templates for bills and resoltuions. ALEC, for example, encourages state legislatures to limit renewable energy, oppose the EPA, and teach climate denial in schools."
"All four of those groups are active in promoting anti-climate and anti-clean energy policies. AFP and ALEC do so particularly through model legislation, which provides states with templates for bills and resoltuions. ALEC, for example, encourages state legislatures to limit renewable energy, oppose the EPA, and teach climate denial in schools."
40 Corporate Polluters Exposed In Report – Citizens Demand Feds Investigate Koch-Scott-Bush Deal
http://samuel-warde.com/2015/03/40-corporate-polluters-exposed/
"It’s also time for the Department of Justice to listen to the citizens. A petition has been created requesting a federal criminal investigation involving Governor Rick Scott and the board of trustees of Florida’s public lands for allowing Georgia-Pacific to discharge up to 60 million gallons of toxic waste per day into the St. Johns River, smothering the bottom with tons of solids and making the water unfit for humans/animals."
"It’s also time for the Department of Justice to listen to the citizens. A petition has been created requesting a federal criminal investigation involving Governor Rick Scott and the board of trustees of Florida’s public lands for allowing Georgia-Pacific to discharge up to 60 million gallons of toxic waste per day into the St. Johns River, smothering the bottom with tons of solids and making the water unfit for humans/animals."
Republicans' new climate strategy: just ban the words 'climate change'
http://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2015/mar/11/republican-new-climate-change-strategy-ban-words-climate-change?CMP=ema_565
"Making the science invisible is a much better plan than the current Republican strategy of foregoing all policy decisions by pretending to be too stupid to understand science. Scott already tried the “I’m not a scientist!” excuse anyway, and for his troubles had to entertain a clutch of scientists in Tallahassee trying to explain climate change to him. He gave them a 30-minute limit, spent nearly half of it on chit-chat, stonefaced through the remainder and then bolted.
Claiming that you’re not a scientist trips you up when you do other science-based things with the same tools. For instance: Scott’s environmental policies read like a textbook version of regulatory capture, slashing budgets while staffing agencies with developers and their lawyers. Environmental regulation enforcement dropped by two-thirds while DEP staffers were given bonuses for accelerating permitting for development. Meanwhile, Scott capped environmental penalties for Big Sugar and fought the federal government on clean-water standards"."
"Making the science invisible is a much better plan than the current Republican strategy of foregoing all policy decisions by pretending to be too stupid to understand science. Scott already tried the “I’m not a scientist!” excuse anyway, and for his troubles had to entertain a clutch of scientists in Tallahassee trying to explain climate change to him. He gave them a 30-minute limit, spent nearly half of it on chit-chat, stonefaced through the remainder and then bolted.
Claiming that you’re not a scientist trips you up when you do other science-based things with the same tools. For instance: Scott’s environmental policies read like a textbook version of regulatory capture, slashing budgets while staffing agencies with developers and their lawyers. Environmental regulation enforcement dropped by two-thirds while DEP staffers were given bonuses for accelerating permitting for development. Meanwhile, Scott capped environmental penalties for Big Sugar and fought the federal government on clean-water standards"."
Florida Banned Use of ‘Climate Change’ Because Florida is F*cking Stupid
http://thedailybanter.com/2015/03/florida-banned-use-climate-change-florida-fcking-stupid/
"The climate change that is apparently ‘not a true fact’ is in fact, a true fact if you take the almost unanimous scientific consensus seriously. But then what do pesky scientists know about things like actual science? Surely complex climatic patterns and the precise study of atmospheric concentrations of carbon dioxide should be left to the experts, like former lawyers and billionaire venture capitalists with no formal science training.
"The climate change that is apparently ‘not a true fact’ is in fact, a true fact if you take the almost unanimous scientific consensus seriously. But then what do pesky scientists know about things like actual science? Surely complex climatic patterns and the precise study of atmospheric concentrations of carbon dioxide should be left to the experts, like former lawyers and billionaire venture capitalists with no formal science training.
Florida Gov. Rick Scott Bans Officials From Using the Terms ‘Climate Change’ and ‘Global Warming’
Florida Gov. Rick Scott Bans Officials From Using the Terms ‘Climate Change’ and ‘Global Warming’
"This whole thing reminded me of an incident that happened a couple of years ago when former Texas Governor Rick Perry censored a report on climate change because it didn’t fall in line with the right-wing propaganda that “climate change is a hoax.” Many Republicans are literally ignoring overwhelmingly accepted scientific facts because they don’t support what they want to be real and what these big oil companies are essentially paying them to say."
"This whole thing reminded me of an incident that happened a couple of years ago when former Texas Governor Rick Perry censored a report on climate change because it didn’t fall in line with the right-wing propaganda that “climate change is a hoax.” Many Republicans are literally ignoring overwhelmingly accepted scientific facts because they don’t support what they want to be real and what these big oil companies are essentially paying them to say."
Florida’s anti-climate crusade is an Orwellian nightmare
Florida’s anti-climate crusade is an Orwellian nightmare
"The extreme, Orwellian nature of the ban certainly struck a nerve. It’s rare, after all, to see climate denial take such a literal form. The news also reveals just how thoroughly Florida’s leader has rejected science — and how far the state is falling behind in preparing for the threats already lapping at its shores."
"The extreme, Orwellian nature of the ban certainly struck a nerve. It’s rare, after all, to see climate denial take such a literal form. The news also reveals just how thoroughly Florida’s leader has rejected science — and how far the state is falling behind in preparing for the threats already lapping at its shores."
AR Secretary Of State Defends 'Exorcist' Lovin' Justin Harris
AR Secretary Of State Defends 'Exorcist' Lovin' Justin Harris
"Apparently, he has a defender in Arkansas, who is blaming "the people" for Harris's lunacy and his name is Mark Martin."
"Apparently, he has a defender in Arkansas, who is blaming "the people" for Harris's lunacy and his name is Mark Martin."
Ted Cruz Embarrassed After Speech Loaded with Applause Points is Met with Silence from Audience (Video)
Ted Cruz Embarrassed After Speech Loaded with Applause Points is Met with Silence from Audience (Video)
"This is what happens when a politician buys into his own lies. When someone like Cruz is speaking in front of a bunch of radical right-wing tea party voters who don’t care about truth, this is the sort of ridiculous speech that would have been a huge hit. But when he tried to pull this kind of nonsense in front of a group of people who actually care about facts, and have the ability to think rationally and for themselves, he was basically humiliated."
"This is what happens when a politician buys into his own lies. When someone like Cruz is speaking in front of a bunch of radical right-wing tea party voters who don’t care about truth, this is the sort of ridiculous speech that would have been a huge hit. But when he tried to pull this kind of nonsense in front of a group of people who actually care about facts, and have the ability to think rationally and for themselves, he was basically humiliated."
Firefighters' Response Throws Cold Water On Ted Cruz's Fiery Speech
Firefighters' Response Throws Cold Water On Ted Cruz's Fiery Speech
"These morons who only speak to the extreme right get a cold dose of reality when they have to speak in front of an audience that's not comprised of cheerleaders, and that's why this Ted Cruz video is so funny. Invited to speak at the International Association of Firefighters bipartisan presidential summit, he is so shocked to discover his standard "red meat" lines don't work."
"These morons who only speak to the extreme right get a cold dose of reality when they have to speak in front of an audience that's not comprised of cheerleaders, and that's why this Ted Cruz video is so funny. Invited to speak at the International Association of Firefighters bipartisan presidential summit, he is so shocked to discover his standard "red meat" lines don't work."
The Shocking Tax Loophole for Corporations that Commit Crimes | Alternet
The Shocking Tax Loophole for Corporations that Commit Crimes | Alternet
"Congress has generously written the law so corporations can deduct much of their punitive payments from their income taxes! "
"Congress has generously written the law so corporations can deduct much of their punitive payments from their income taxes! "
Ted Cruz Gives Anti-Government Speech To Room Full Of Firefighters, Bombs Hilariously (VIDEO)
http://www.addictinginfo.org/2015/03/11/ted-cruz-gives-anti-government-speech-to-room-full-of-firefighters-bombs-hilariously-video/
"The chilled response is absolutely cringeworthy, but also supremely telling. Cruz is modeling himself within the Republican Party as a viable presidential candidate (if not in 2016, then at least in 2020), but this is a tangible reminder of just how out-of-touch “President Ted Cruz” and his agenda is with regular people. He has the same problems that many of his extremist friends on the right have — fiery popularity within the far-right wing, but deep alienation to literally everyone else."
"The chilled response is absolutely cringeworthy, but also supremely telling. Cruz is modeling himself within the Republican Party as a viable presidential candidate (if not in 2016, then at least in 2020), but this is a tangible reminder of just how out-of-touch “President Ted Cruz” and his agenda is with regular people. He has the same problems that many of his extremist friends on the right have — fiery popularity within the far-right wing, but deep alienation to literally everyone else."
The Erasure of US History Starts in Texas
http://www.truth-out.org/opinion/item/29519-the-erasure-of-us-history-starts-in-texas
"The second most populous state in the US, Texas has also long been the frontline of a right-wing offensive against historical accuracy in the United States."
"The second most populous state in the US, Texas has also long been the frontline of a right-wing offensive against historical accuracy in the United States."
College Republicans Praise Education Budget Cuts
College Republicans Praise Education Budget Cuts
"consider who the parent group of this organization is: The Leadership Institute. It reads as a who's who in the Republican science-denial realm when you look at some of its previous members. They include Mitch McConnell, Ralph Reed, Karl Rove, Grover Norquist and Mr. "You Lie" Joe Wilson."
"consider who the parent group of this organization is: The Leadership Institute. It reads as a who's who in the Republican science-denial realm when you look at some of its previous members. They include Mitch McConnell, Ralph Reed, Karl Rove, Grover Norquist and Mr. "You Lie" Joe Wilson."
Cookie-Cutter ALEC Right-to-Work Bills Pop in Multiple States
Cookie-Cutter ALEC Right-to-Work Bills Pop in Multiple States
"the Wisconsin bill was taken almost word for word from the American Legislative Exchange Council "model" bill. (See CMD's side-by-side here.) And we reported on the Koch and Bradley Foundation funding behind the panoply of usual suspects that flew into the state to testify on behalf of the bill, including "experts" from the National Right to Work Committee, the Mackinac Center and the Heritage Foundation with assists from ALEC "scholar" Richard Vedder and State Policy Network "stink tanks" like the Wisconsin Public Research Institute. And let's not forget the $1 million in TV ads from the Koch-funded Americans for Prosperity group.
But the push for RTW continues in multiple states in a variety of forms. From a legally dubious executive order in Illinois to an equally suspect county-level strategy in Kentucky, ALEC's effort to disable unions as an organized voice for working families marches on."
"the Wisconsin bill was taken almost word for word from the American Legislative Exchange Council "model" bill. (See CMD's side-by-side here.) And we reported on the Koch and Bradley Foundation funding behind the panoply of usual suspects that flew into the state to testify on behalf of the bill, including "experts" from the National Right to Work Committee, the Mackinac Center and the Heritage Foundation with assists from ALEC "scholar" Richard Vedder and State Policy Network "stink tanks" like the Wisconsin Public Research Institute. And let's not forget the $1 million in TV ads from the Koch-funded Americans for Prosperity group.
But the push for RTW continues in multiple states in a variety of forms. From a legally dubious executive order in Illinois to an equally suspect county-level strategy in Kentucky, ALEC's effort to disable unions as an organized voice for working families marches on."
Scott Walker: Actually Rather Intimidated
Scott Walker: Actually Rather Intimidated
"While Scott Walker was Milwaukee County Executive and then as Governor of Wisconsin, he has enjoyed the privilege of being treated with kid gloves by the corporate media. Even as he was the subject of two separate John Doe investigations into various scandalous activities, the media would often minimize or even ignore his involvement into the skulduggery.
It was only when he left this bubble to run for president that Walker started to be challenged on things. Showing that he is not ready for prime time, Walker has been quite the gaffe machine, including things like:
Getting called out by other right wingers on his lousy job numbers
Punting on a question about evolution
Being unable and/or unwilling to discuss foreign policy
Refusing to say that President Obama loves America
Refusing to say that President Obama is a Christian
Comparing Wisconsin protesters to ISIS terrorists and claiming that this made him qualified to deal with the terrorists
Walker has become quite flustered with the realization that he is going to have to know things, be able to answer questions that don't necessarily follow his script and - worst of all - tell the truth (or a reasonable facsimile thereof)."
"While Scott Walker was Milwaukee County Executive and then as Governor of Wisconsin, he has enjoyed the privilege of being treated with kid gloves by the corporate media. Even as he was the subject of two separate John Doe investigations into various scandalous activities, the media would often minimize or even ignore his involvement into the skulduggery.
It was only when he left this bubble to run for president that Walker started to be challenged on things. Showing that he is not ready for prime time, Walker has been quite the gaffe machine, including things like:
Getting called out by other right wingers on his lousy job numbers
Punting on a question about evolution
Being unable and/or unwilling to discuss foreign policy
Refusing to say that President Obama loves America
Refusing to say that President Obama is a Christian
Comparing Wisconsin protesters to ISIS terrorists and claiming that this made him qualified to deal with the terrorists
Walker has become quite flustered with the realization that he is going to have to know things, be able to answer questions that don't necessarily follow his script and - worst of all - tell the truth (or a reasonable facsimile thereof)."
Louisiana Republicans revolt over Bobby Jindal’s ‘insane’ allegiance to Grover Norquist
Louisiana Republicans revolt over Bobby Jindal’s ‘insane’ allegiance to Grover Norquist
"officials in Jindal’s administration had warned lawmakers during a recent Republican retreat that any attempt to reduce tax credits for businesses would have to be approved by Norquist’s group."
"officials in Jindal’s administration had warned lawmakers during a recent Republican retreat that any attempt to reduce tax credits for businesses would have to be approved by Norquist’s group."
Nevada Bill Aims To Scrap Minimum Wage That Voters Passed By Ballot Initiative
http://thinkprogress.org/economy/2015/03/14/3633838/nevada-minimum-wage/
"In 2006, the state’s voters approved a constitutional amendment that sets a standard minimum wage, but Hardy’s resolution would repeal it and give the legislature the ability to control the wage."
"In 2006, the state’s voters approved a constitutional amendment that sets a standard minimum wage, but Hardy’s resolution would repeal it and give the legislature the ability to control the wage."
GOP’s absurd new tax scam: What its “middle-class tax relief” is really about
GOP’s absurd new tax scam: What its “middle-class tax relief” is really about
"right now Rubio’s and Lee’s primary concern is getting people talking about how Republicans are all about middle-class tax relief, even as they continue cranking out policies that overwhelmingly benefit the rich."
"right now Rubio’s and Lee’s primary concern is getting people talking about how Republicans are all about middle-class tax relief, even as they continue cranking out policies that overwhelmingly benefit the rich."
The Wall Street Bonus Pool and Low-Wage Workers
The Wall Street Bonus Pool and Low-Wage Workers
"While workers’ wages stagnate, the Wall Street bonus culture is flourishing—in part because of regulatory foot-dragging. Nearly five years after the Dodd-Frank financial reform was signed into law, regulators have still not implemented Section 956 of that law, which prohibits financial industry pay packages that encourage “inappropriate risks"."
"While workers’ wages stagnate, the Wall Street bonus culture is flourishing—in part because of regulatory foot-dragging. Nearly five years after the Dodd-Frank financial reform was signed into law, regulators have still not implemented Section 956 of that law, which prohibits financial industry pay packages that encourage “inappropriate risks"."
Obamacare enrollments for 2015 confirm, red states have the most to lose from Supreme Court
http://www.dailykos.com/story/2015/03/11/1370151/-Obamacare-enrollments-for-2015-confirm-red-states-have-the-most-to-lose-from-Supreme-Court#
"insurers would have to hike premiums on everyone buying in the individual market."
"insurers would have to hike premiums on everyone buying in the individual market."
Nearly 12 million insured, health costs going down ... will the Supreme Court still gut Obamacare?
http://www.dailykos.com/story/2015/03/10/1369843/-Nearly-12-million-insured-health-costs-going-down-will-the-Supreme-Court-still-gut-Obamacare
"The Congressional Budget Office now says that the U.S. will spend less on health care in the coming decade than it predicted before Obamacare became law. That means, even with all the spending that goes with the law—Medicaid expansion and health insurance subsidies—it's driving health care costs down."
"The Congressional Budget Office now says that the U.S. will spend less on health care in the coming decade than it predicted before Obamacare became law. That means, even with all the spending that goes with the law—Medicaid expansion and health insurance subsidies—it's driving health care costs down."
Red states’ SCOTUS reckoning: Oklahoma governor suddenly terrified of losing subsidies
Red states’ SCOTUS reckoning: Oklahoma governor suddenly terrified of losing subsidies
"OK Gov. Mary Fallin was all about gutting Obamacare, but now she wants a temporary extension"
"OK Gov. Mary Fallin was all about gutting Obamacare, but now she wants a temporary extension"
Bryan Fischer: Bilingual People Are A Sign Of God’s Judgment On America (VIDEO)
http://www.addictinginfo.org/2015/03/13/bryan-fischer-bilingual-people-are-a-sign-of-gods-judgment-on-america-video/
"this man’s ignorance is astounding. I don’t even know why I am surprised anymore. After all, we’re talking about a man who was too hateful even for one of America’s most notorious hate groups, and was fired for going a step too far in one of his infamous rants."
"this man’s ignorance is astounding. I don’t even know why I am surprised anymore. After all, we’re talking about a man who was too hateful even for one of America’s most notorious hate groups, and was fired for going a step too far in one of his infamous rants."
The end of white Christian America is nigh: Why the country’s youth are abandoning religious conservatism
The end of white Christian America is nigh: Why the country’s youth are abandoning religious conservatism
"These changes explain the modern political landscape as well as any economic indicator. While not all white Christians are conservative, these changing numbers definitely suggest that conservative Christians are rapidly losing their grip on power. And while some non-white Christians are conservative, their numbers are not making up for what the Christian right is losing. And whether conservative leaders are aware of the exact numbers or not, it’s clear that they sense that change is in the air. Just by speaking to young people, turning on your TV, or reading the Internet, you can sense the way the country is lurching away from conservative Christian values and towards a more liberal, secular outlook. And conservative Christians aren’t taking these changes well at all.
To look at the Christian right now is to see a people who know they are losing power and are desperately trying to reassert dominance before it’s lost altogether."
"These changes explain the modern political landscape as well as any economic indicator. While not all white Christians are conservative, these changing numbers definitely suggest that conservative Christians are rapidly losing their grip on power. And while some non-white Christians are conservative, their numbers are not making up for what the Christian right is losing. And whether conservative leaders are aware of the exact numbers or not, it’s clear that they sense that change is in the air. Just by speaking to young people, turning on your TV, or reading the Internet, you can sense the way the country is lurching away from conservative Christian values and towards a more liberal, secular outlook. And conservative Christians aren’t taking these changes well at all.
To look at the Christian right now is to see a people who know they are losing power and are desperately trying to reassert dominance before it’s lost altogether."
This Map Is Really Awful News For (Racist) White Christian Conservatives (IMAGE)
http://www.addictinginfo.org/2015/03/10/this-map-is-really-awful-news-for-racist-white-christian-conservatives-image/
"Dear (racist) white christian conservatives,
There’s no easy way to break this.
You’re now the minority in 19 states of the U S of A."
"Dear (racist) white christian conservatives,
There’s no easy way to break this.
You’re now the minority in 19 states of the U S of A."
Arkansas Republican who gave girls to rapist ‘regularly’ performed exorcisms on unruly preschoolers
Arkansas Republican who gave girls to rapist ‘regularly’ performed exorcisms on unruly preschoolers
"The Arkansas Republican who gave his adopted daughters to a man who raped one of them was apparently in the habit of attempting to cast “demons” out of the children in his federally-funded pre-kindergarten."
"The Arkansas Republican who gave his adopted daughters to a man who raped one of them was apparently in the habit of attempting to cast “demons” out of the children in his federally-funded pre-kindergarten."
You Won't Believe Why Arkansas Legislator Got Rid Of His Adopted Daughters
You Won't Believe Why Arkansas Legislator Got Rid Of His Adopted Daughters
"So now we know why Rep. Justin Harris and his wife gave away their adopted daughters. Because they were possessed by demons, of course!"
"So now we know why Rep. Justin Harris and his wife gave away their adopted daughters. Because they were possessed by demons, of course!"
Arkansas Republican gave adopted girls to rapist because they were ‘possessed by demons’: report
Arkansas Republican gave adopted girls to rapist because they were ‘possessed by demons’: report
"The story of Arkansas state Rep. Justin Harris (R) — whose family adopted a pair of girls then “re-homed” them to another household where one of the girls was raped — has taken a bizarre turn with allegations that the Harris family gave the girls up because they believed the children could communicate telepathically and were possessed by demons."
"The story of Arkansas state Rep. Justin Harris (R) — whose family adopted a pair of girls then “re-homed” them to another household where one of the girls was raped — has taken a bizarre turn with allegations that the Harris family gave the girls up because they believed the children could communicate telepathically and were possessed by demons."
Jeb’s scary new adviser: Meet Jordan Sekulow, global attorney for the religious right
Jeb’s scary new adviser: Meet Jordan Sekulow, global attorney for the religious right
"But while Sekulow’s credibility in conservative circles will likely prove an asset for the Bush campaign, he has also been at the forefront of his organization’s work to keep homosexuality criminalized in Africa, opposed abortion even when a mother’s health is endangered, and espoused incendiary anti-Muslim views, a record that hardly conveys the “inclusive conservative” message his candidate professes to support.
A former operative for the presidential campaigns of George W. Bush and Mitt Romney, Sekulow is now executive director at ACLJ, an organization founded by televangelist Pat Robertson to serve as a conservative counterweight to the American Civil Liberties Union. Sekulow’s father Jay, also a prominent social conservative, is ACLJ’s chief counsel. As father and son aided Romney’s second presidential bid in 2012, the pair came under scrutiny after Mother Jones highlighted their international work to criminalize abortion and homosexuality — work that has expanded the ACLJ’s tentacles everywhere from Kenya and Zimbabwe to France and Putin’s Russia."
"But while Sekulow’s credibility in conservative circles will likely prove an asset for the Bush campaign, he has also been at the forefront of his organization’s work to keep homosexuality criminalized in Africa, opposed abortion even when a mother’s health is endangered, and espoused incendiary anti-Muslim views, a record that hardly conveys the “inclusive conservative” message his candidate professes to support.
A former operative for the presidential campaigns of George W. Bush and Mitt Romney, Sekulow is now executive director at ACLJ, an organization founded by televangelist Pat Robertson to serve as a conservative counterweight to the American Civil Liberties Union. Sekulow’s father Jay, also a prominent social conservative, is ACLJ’s chief counsel. As father and son aided Romney’s second presidential bid in 2012, the pair came under scrutiny after Mother Jones highlighted their international work to criminalize abortion and homosexuality — work that has expanded the ACLJ’s tentacles everywhere from Kenya and Zimbabwe to France and Putin’s Russia."
Friday, March 13, 2015
Wisconsin Loses Jobs To Minnesota Due To 'Right To Work' Bill
Wisconsin Loses Jobs To Minnesota Due To 'Right To Work' Bill
"While Scott Walker and the other Teapublicans were busy pandering to their corporate overlords by rushing through so-called "Right to Work" legislation, Minnesota Republicans were leveraging this to their advantage by trying to get companies to relocate to their state.
It didn't take long for Walker's folly to work to their advantage"
"While Scott Walker and the other Teapublicans were busy pandering to their corporate overlords by rushing through so-called "Right to Work" legislation, Minnesota Republicans were leveraging this to their advantage by trying to get companies to relocate to their state.
It didn't take long for Walker's folly to work to their advantage"
Michigan Republicans revive plan to rig state's electoral college vote
http://www.dailykos.com/story/2015/03/10/1369878/-Michigan-Republicans-revive-plan-to-rig-state-s-electoral-college-vote
"Had this system been in place in 2012, Mitt Romney would have lost Michigan by nearly 450,000 of 4.7 million votes, but walked away with nine of the state's 16 electoral votes."
"Had this system been in place in 2012, Mitt Romney would have lost Michigan by nearly 450,000 of 4.7 million votes, but walked away with nine of the state's 16 electoral votes."
Aaron Schock may be toast: News keeps getting worse for embattled congressman
Aaron Schock may be toast: News keeps getting worse for embattled congressman
"Federal law prohibits “knowing and willful” misrepresentation of official expenditures. Those two criminal defense attorneys Schock retained last month may soon find themselves very busy men indeed."
"Federal law prohibits “knowing and willful” misrepresentation of official expenditures. Those two criminal defense attorneys Schock retained last month may soon find themselves very busy men indeed."
Republicans are Trying to Blame President Obama for the Poverty They Created
Republicans are Trying to Blame President Obama for the Poverty They Created
"Even when we look at our economy, as much as it’s improved, we still have a ways to go – especially as it relates to income growth. And while Republicans will have you believe that stagnant wages are a byproduct of President Obama’s economy, this is an issue that started way back when Ronald Reagan was elected. Hell, even Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX) proved how damaging trickle-down economics has been for the middle class when he pointed out that we haven’t seen such an unequal distribution of wages in this country since just before the Great Depression. While he pointed to 2012 as an example in trying to bash President Obama, what he failed to mention was that the four consecutive years prior to the 2008 crash almost exactly mirrored the unequal distribution of wealth we saw in this country just before the Great Depression. Just look at this chart from CNN Money
Do you see that wide, fairly flat area in the middle? That’s the 50′s, 60′s and 70′s – before “Reaganomics” took over our economic landscape. Then once Americans started being fed the lie that “tax cuts create jobs,” suddenly income inequality skyrocketed. The rich are doing better than they ever have before; meanwhile, the vast majority of Americans aren’t seeing anything close to that same level of success.
And even though many Republicans will say that wage inequality is an issue, they continue to claim that the mistake which caused this inequality is the same path to fixing it. It’s absurd. The truth is, every time a Republican says that wages aren’t increasing and income distribution is an issue, they’re admitting that trickle-down economics doesn’t work."
"Even when we look at our economy, as much as it’s improved, we still have a ways to go – especially as it relates to income growth. And while Republicans will have you believe that stagnant wages are a byproduct of President Obama’s economy, this is an issue that started way back when Ronald Reagan was elected. Hell, even Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX) proved how damaging trickle-down economics has been for the middle class when he pointed out that we haven’t seen such an unequal distribution of wages in this country since just before the Great Depression. While he pointed to 2012 as an example in trying to bash President Obama, what he failed to mention was that the four consecutive years prior to the 2008 crash almost exactly mirrored the unequal distribution of wealth we saw in this country just before the Great Depression. Just look at this chart from CNN Money
Do you see that wide, fairly flat area in the middle? That’s the 50′s, 60′s and 70′s – before “Reaganomics” took over our economic landscape. Then once Americans started being fed the lie that “tax cuts create jobs,” suddenly income inequality skyrocketed. The rich are doing better than they ever have before; meanwhile, the vast majority of Americans aren’t seeing anything close to that same level of success.
And even though many Republicans will say that wage inequality is an issue, they continue to claim that the mistake which caused this inequality is the same path to fixing it. It’s absurd. The truth is, every time a Republican says that wages aren’t increasing and income distribution is an issue, they’re admitting that trickle-down economics doesn’t work."
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