http://www.dailykos.com/story/2015/03/19/1370548/-Scott-Walker-s-supercharged-War-on-Women
"This is the Scott Walker to remember, no matter what he says on the campaign trail at any given moment. If you believe women should have access to a full range of healthcare options without being shamed or interfered with by the government, remember that Scott Walker will stop at nothing to strip women of those options."
Wednesday, March 25, 2015
The People's Budget: Progressive Proposal Aims to Un-Rig Failed Economic System
The People's Budget: Progressive Proposal Aims to Un-Rig Failed Economic System
"Overall, the provisions included in the CPC budget contrast sharply with the austerity policies embraced by the right-wing."
"Overall, the provisions included in the CPC budget contrast sharply with the austerity policies embraced by the right-wing."
The Unbearable Cruelty of the GOP Budget
http://reverbpress.com/politics/the-unbearable-cruelty-of-the-gop-budget/
"The GOP budget makes it very clear where their priorities lie: not with protecting the least fortunate or maintaining a social safety net, but with lining the pockets a select and wealthy few. Is it any surprise that the defense industry gives far more to Republicans than to Democrats? Didn’t think so."
"The GOP budget makes it very clear where their priorities lie: not with protecting the least fortunate or maintaining a social safety net, but with lining the pockets a select and wealthy few. Is it any surprise that the defense industry gives far more to Republicans than to Democrats? Didn’t think so."
Sanders Blasts GOP Budgets
Sanders Blasts GOP Budgets
"Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) blasted as large a hole in the newly-released Republican budget as he could muster, declaring it an attack on low- and middle-income Americans, a fiesta of deregulation and subsidies for Wall Street and Big Business, and a plan to further enrich the nation's wealthiest and most powerful"
"Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) blasted as large a hole in the newly-released Republican budget as he could muster, declaring it an attack on low- and middle-income Americans, a fiesta of deregulation and subsidies for Wall Street and Big Business, and a plan to further enrich the nation's wealthiest and most powerful"
Bernie Sanders Storms The Senate and Rips The Republican Rich Get Richer Budget
http://www.politicususa.com/2015/03/18/bernie-sanders-storms-senate-rips-republican-rich-richer-budget.html
"Sen. Sanders was correct. The Republicans are offering up the ultimate rich get richer budgets. The goal of the Republican budget is to take money away from poor and middle-class Americans and give it to the people at the top. Sanders was spot on. No matter how much wealth the richest Americans accumulate, Congressional Republicans believe that they deserve more.
The House and Senate Republican budget deserve the scorn of the American people because they explicitly confirm the Republican goal of creating an oligarchic society that consists of a few haves and everyone else being a have not."
"Sen. Sanders was correct. The Republicans are offering up the ultimate rich get richer budgets. The goal of the Republican budget is to take money away from poor and middle-class Americans and give it to the people at the top. Sanders was spot on. No matter how much wealth the richest Americans accumulate, Congressional Republicans believe that they deserve more.
The House and Senate Republican budget deserve the scorn of the American people because they explicitly confirm the Republican goal of creating an oligarchic society that consists of a few haves and everyone else being a have not."
It's the Anniversary of the Invasion of Iraq. Where's the Accountability? | Alternet
It's the Anniversary of the Invasion of Iraq. Where's the Accountability? | Alternet
"What are we doing now to ensure Israel and the Republican Congress don’t drive us with lies to another war?"
"What are we doing now to ensure Israel and the Republican Congress don’t drive us with lies to another war?"
Monday, March 23, 2015
Thanks To Obamacare, Hospitals Saved More Than $7 Billion Last Year
http://thinkprogress.org/health/2015/03/23/3637685/obamacare-hospital-savings/
"The savings reflect a reduction in the so-called “uncompensated care” that hospitals provide to uninsured Americans, and are even greater than HHS officials predicted they would be at the beginning of this year.
Since people without insurance typically don’t have any means to cover their medical bills, the cost of their treatment ends up falling on the hospital itself. Therefore, as more people gain coverage, it become less expensive for hospitals to care for their patients. More than 16 million previously uninsured Americans have gotten covered under Obamacare, contributing to the biggest drop in the national uninsurance rate over the past four decades."
"The savings reflect a reduction in the so-called “uncompensated care” that hospitals provide to uninsured Americans, and are even greater than HHS officials predicted they would be at the beginning of this year.
Since people without insurance typically don’t have any means to cover their medical bills, the cost of their treatment ends up falling on the hospital itself. Therefore, as more people gain coverage, it become less expensive for hospitals to care for their patients. More than 16 million previously uninsured Americans have gotten covered under Obamacare, contributing to the biggest drop in the national uninsurance rate over the past four decades."
Cut their paychecks and take away their healthcare! The GOP’s insane plan to woo women in 2016
Cut their paychecks and take away their healthcare! The GOP’s insane plan to woo women in 2016
"It is bizarro world out there, and it only promises to get more bizarro as we move closer to 2016. The GOP will be in the unenviable position of pretending that decimating women’s paychecks and taking away their healthcare is the real way to improve their lives. (Because being broke and sick without access to a doctor always turns out so well.) Some in the party may have had a moment of political savvy back in January, but that moment is gone. There’s no disguising the GOP’s blatant assault on women’s lives and basic livelihoods, and what’s ahead looks bleaker than ever."
"It is bizarro world out there, and it only promises to get more bizarro as we move closer to 2016. The GOP will be in the unenviable position of pretending that decimating women’s paychecks and taking away their healthcare is the real way to improve their lives. (Because being broke and sick without access to a doctor always turns out so well.) Some in the party may have had a moment of political savvy back in January, but that moment is gone. There’s no disguising the GOP’s blatant assault on women’s lives and basic livelihoods, and what’s ahead looks bleaker than ever."
Infographic: How Many Women Are Benefiting from the Affordable Care Act?
https://www.americanprogress.org/issues/women/news/2015/03/17/85389/infographic-how-many-women-are-benefiting-from-the-affordable-care-act/
This infographic is a compilation of data from multiple sources to highlight how women are benefiting from the Affordable Care Act."
This infographic is a compilation of data from multiple sources to highlight how women are benefiting from the Affordable Care Act."
14 Reasons Why House and Senate Republicans Have Declared Economic War On Average Americans | Alternet
14 Reasons Why House and Senate Republicans Have Declared Economic War On Average Americans | Alternet
"In almost every one of these budget areas, nationwide polls show that a majority of Americans strongly oppose what the GOP is proposing. In other words, the Republicans are not delivering the kind of federal government that Americans want; they are declaring economic war on average Americans by reshaping government to serve the upper classes and biggest businesses."
"In almost every one of these budget areas, nationwide polls show that a majority of Americans strongly oppose what the GOP is proposing. In other words, the Republicans are not delivering the kind of federal government that Americans want; they are declaring economic war on average Americans by reshaping government to serve the upper classes and biggest businesses."
Schools Plan Massive Layoffs After Scott Walker Guts Funding
http://thinkprogress.org/economy/2015/03/18/3634306/students-teachers-brace-scott-walkers-devastating-education-cuts/
"This week, Wisconsin kicked off a series of hearings on Governor Scott Walker’s proposed budget, which would slash about $300 million from the University of Wisconsin system over two years, funnel hundreds of millions to build a pro-basketball stadium, and cut deeply from funds for health care, food stamps and public media.
College campuses across the state are already preparing for the worst."
"This week, Wisconsin kicked off a series of hearings on Governor Scott Walker’s proposed budget, which would slash about $300 million from the University of Wisconsin system over two years, funnel hundreds of millions to build a pro-basketball stadium, and cut deeply from funds for health care, food stamps and public media.
College campuses across the state are already preparing for the worst."
Top Ten Arguments for Raising the Minimum Wage
Top Ten Arguments for Raising the Minimum Wage
"Worker productivity has gone up much faster than wages. Using the 1968 minimum wage as benchmark, if the minimum wage grew at same rate as worker productivity it would have reached $21.72 per hour."
"Worker productivity has gone up much faster than wages. Using the 1968 minimum wage as benchmark, if the minimum wage grew at same rate as worker productivity it would have reached $21.72 per hour."
Cashin' In Crew Fearmongers Over Seattle Raising Minimum Wage
Cashin' In Crew Fearmongers Over Seattle Raising Minimum Wage
"If there's one thing they love doing over at Faux "news" it's looking out for big business while continually punching down and attacking workers, minimum wage, our social safety nets and organized labor. This Saturday's Cashin' In was no exception with all of Eric Bolling's guests other than Juan Williams who was the lone voice of reason fearmongering over an upcoming minimum wage increase in Seattle.
Wingnut libertarian as usual doesn't think there should be any minimum wage at all, and the others were fearmongering that it's going to lead to layoffs and business closing, never mind the fact that the restaurant owners in the area have said this is not true."
"If there's one thing they love doing over at Faux "news" it's looking out for big business while continually punching down and attacking workers, minimum wage, our social safety nets and organized labor. This Saturday's Cashin' In was no exception with all of Eric Bolling's guests other than Juan Williams who was the lone voice of reason fearmongering over an upcoming minimum wage increase in Seattle.
Wingnut libertarian as usual doesn't think there should be any minimum wage at all, and the others were fearmongering that it's going to lead to layoffs and business closing, never mind the fact that the restaurant owners in the area have said this is not true."
GOP’s new moral monstrosity: Trickle-down lies enrich the 1 percent, as wing-nuts assert control
GOP’s new moral monstrosity: Trickle-down lies enrich the 1 percent, as wing-nuts assert control
"On purely ideological grounds they say that overnight their unholy combination of miserly spending cuts for the poor and profligate tax cuts for the rich will juice economic growth by nearly 50 percent, unleashing a cascade of revenue. It’s faith-based accounting based on supply-side economics and it’s never worked. But in the spirit of Florida Gov. Rick Scott forbidding state officials from uttering the words “global warming” and “climate change,” the Republicans have ordered their formerly non-partisan budget analysts to apply the theory. It’s how their whole budget works; like a sleight of hand street hustle, a shell game with no pea."
"On purely ideological grounds they say that overnight their unholy combination of miserly spending cuts for the poor and profligate tax cuts for the rich will juice economic growth by nearly 50 percent, unleashing a cascade of revenue. It’s faith-based accounting based on supply-side economics and it’s never worked. But in the spirit of Florida Gov. Rick Scott forbidding state officials from uttering the words “global warming” and “climate change,” the Republicans have ordered their formerly non-partisan budget analysts to apply the theory. It’s how their whole budget works; like a sleight of hand street hustle, a shell game with no pea."
GOP’s “black magic” budget: Using voodoo to conjure trillions in savings
GOP’s “black magic” budget: Using voodoo to conjure trillions in savings
"while the House budget borrowed heavily from the Paul Ryan school of achieving balance through cutting and privatizing social programs, the Senate budget takes a slightly different approach: magic voodoo savings."
"while the House budget borrowed heavily from the Paul Ryan school of achieving balance through cutting and privatizing social programs, the Senate budget takes a slightly different approach: magic voodoo savings."
Jeb Bush Displays His Stupidity While Discussing Income Inequality and the Minimum Wage (Video)
Jeb Bush Displays His Stupidity While Discussing Income Inequality and the Minimum Wage (Video)
"The Republican economic theory of trickle-down economics is based upon the principle that the better the rich do, the better it is for the rest of us. Yet, here we have Jeb Bush admitting that the rich are doing great – but everyone else is falling further and further behind, especially the poor. In other words, he just admitted that trickle-down economics doesn’t work."
"The Republican economic theory of trickle-down economics is based upon the principle that the better the rich do, the better it is for the rest of us. Yet, here we have Jeb Bush admitting that the rich are doing great – but everyone else is falling further and further behind, especially the poor. In other words, he just admitted that trickle-down economics doesn’t work."
GOP’s “screw the poor” budget: Republicans plan some serious pain for low-income Americans
GOP’s “screw the poor” budget: Republicans plan some serious pain for low-income Americans
"The Republican proposal privatizes everything it can privatize, cuts every non-defense program it gets its grubby mitts on, nukes Obamacare from orbit, and dynamically scores itself into something resembling balance.
It really can’t be overstated just how terrible this budget proposal is for America’s poor."
"The Republican proposal privatizes everything it can privatize, cuts every non-defense program it gets its grubby mitts on, nukes Obamacare from orbit, and dynamically scores itself into something resembling balance.
It really can’t be overstated just how terrible this budget proposal is for America’s poor."
Jeb Bush Wants To Eliminate Minimum Wage: 'Leave It To The Private Sector'
Jeb Bush Wants To Eliminate Minimum Wage: 'Leave It To The Private Sector'
"Former Florida Governor and potential GOP 2016 presidential candidate Jeb Bush wants a race to the bottom on wages in America."
"Former Florida Governor and potential GOP 2016 presidential candidate Jeb Bush wants a race to the bottom on wages in America."
House GOP Budget: More Money For War, Repeal Obamacare, Cut Food Stamps and Medicaid
http://www.politicususa.com/2015/03/17/house-gop-budget-money-war-repeal-obamacare-cut-food-stamps-medicaid.html
"While it should be obvious to the American public what the Republican Party’s priorities are by now, the recently unveiled House budget serves as yet another reminder about what the modern GOP stands for. The Republican Party’s eagerness to cut programs that benefit poor and middle class families, while lavishing favor on the big banks, the corporate CEOs, and the military contractors, demonstrates all too clearly who they work for."
"While it should be obvious to the American public what the Republican Party’s priorities are by now, the recently unveiled House budget serves as yet another reminder about what the modern GOP stands for. The Republican Party’s eagerness to cut programs that benefit poor and middle class families, while lavishing favor on the big banks, the corporate CEOs, and the military contractors, demonstrates all too clearly who they work for."
The Numbers Don’t Lie, Obamacare Is Working
The Numbers Don’t Lie, Obamacare Is Working
"Republicans aren’t going to let facts get in the way of attempting further repeals of Obamacare, and they’ll certainly continue to make the same old debunked claims about it because they’ve come too far to turn back now. However, the numbers don’t lie; despite all of the doomsday prophecies from conservatives opposed to the Affordable Care Act, it’s working even better than expected."
"Republicans aren’t going to let facts get in the way of attempting further repeals of Obamacare, and they’ll certainly continue to make the same old debunked claims about it because they’ve come too far to turn back now. However, the numbers don’t lie; despite all of the doomsday prophecies from conservatives opposed to the Affordable Care Act, it’s working even better than expected."
Scott Walker and the GOP Are Putting the Big Squeeze on Middle-Class Workers | Alternet
Scott Walker and the GOP Are Putting the Big Squeeze on Middle-Class Workers | Alternet
"This is the GOP’s big squeeze. It means the death of opportunity for the working poor to climb into the middle class. It means more of the middle class dragged down into poverty as workers scramble to pay ever-climbing bills with ever-smaller paychecks."
"This is the GOP’s big squeeze. It means the death of opportunity for the working poor to climb into the middle class. It means more of the middle class dragged down into poverty as workers scramble to pay ever-climbing bills with ever-smaller paychecks."
Paul Ryan Warns GOP Governors Not To Set Up Exchanges If SCOTUS Kills Subsidies
Paul Ryan Warns GOP Governors Not To Set Up Exchanges If SCOTUS Kills Subsidies
"In other words, turn the clock back to 2008 all over again. Because liberty!"
"In other words, turn the clock back to 2008 all over again. Because liberty!"
Most Americans Don't Understand Their Health Insurance Is At Risk
Most Americans Don't Understand Their Health Insurance Is At Risk
"If the Supreme Court rules in favor of the law’s challengers, it is expected that millions would be unable to afford health insurance, uninsured rates would spike and health insurance costs would soar, affecting even those who do not rely on subsidies to buy insurance."
"If the Supreme Court rules in favor of the law’s challengers, it is expected that millions would be unable to afford health insurance, uninsured rates would spike and health insurance costs would soar, affecting even those who do not rely on subsidies to buy insurance."
After Obamacare Extends Coverage To 16 Million Americans, House Republicans Propose Repealing It
http://thinkprogress.org/health/2015/03/17/3634539/house-budget-obamacare/
"On Tuesday, House Republicans are planning to unveil a proposed budget that would reportedly overhaul the country’s health care policies — by partially privatizing Medicare, dramatically restructuring Medicaid, and completely repealing Obamacare."
"On Tuesday, House Republicans are planning to unveil a proposed budget that would reportedly overhaul the country’s health care policies — by partially privatizing Medicare, dramatically restructuring Medicaid, and completely repealing Obamacare."
New Report Shows Obamacare Works, 16 Million Fewer Uninsured
http://www.addictinginfo.org/2015/03/16/new-report-shows-obamacare-works-16-million-fewer-uninsured/
"While naysayers are still trying to dismantle the Affordable Care Act piece by piece, there is no doubt about it, the law works, and millions are benefiting."
"While naysayers are still trying to dismantle the Affordable Care Act piece by piece, there is no doubt about it, the law works, and millions are benefiting."
4 Ways the Next Fight Over Spending in Washington Could Seriously Affect Your Life | Alternet
4 Ways the Next Fight Over Spending in Washington Could Seriously Affect Your Life | Alternet
"Republicans have made it clear that one of their top policy goals is to lower top-end and corporate tax rates – the lower the better. What they won’t talk about – but we must – is who would end up paying for those tax cuts."
"Republicans have made it clear that one of their top policy goals is to lower top-end and corporate tax rates – the lower the better. What they won’t talk about – but we must – is who would end up paying for those tax cuts."
Obama’s Biggest Victory: 16.4 Million Uninsured Americans Have Gained Health Coverage Via ACA
http://www.politicususa.com/2015/03/16/16-4-million-previously-uninsured-americans-gained-health-coverage-aca-effect.html
"The Gallup-Healthways Well-Being Index estimates that the national uninsured rate has plummeted from 20.3 percent, prior to the 2013 open enrollment period, to just 13.2 percent in early 2015."
"The Gallup-Healthways Well-Being Index estimates that the national uninsured rate has plummeted from 20.3 percent, prior to the 2013 open enrollment period, to just 13.2 percent in early 2015."
Christian Host Pretty Sure Hollywood ‘Witchcraft’ And Gays Responsible For CA Drought (AUDIO)
http://www.addictinginfo.org/2015/03/20/christian-host-pretty-sure-hollywood-witchcraft-and-gays-responsible-for-ca-drought-audio/
"Here I was thinking the drought was caused by:
A “persistent weather pattern over the past several years has featured a warm, dry ridge of high pressure over the eastern north Pacific Ocean and western North America. Such high-pressure ridges prevent clouds from forming and precipitation from falling.”
But that’s what scientists think is the cause, and really, what do scientists know? (again, sarcasm — some people need to be reminded)"
"Here I was thinking the drought was caused by:
A “persistent weather pattern over the past several years has featured a warm, dry ridge of high pressure over the eastern north Pacific Ocean and western North America. Such high-pressure ridges prevent clouds from forming and precipitation from falling.”
But that’s what scientists think is the cause, and really, what do scientists know? (again, sarcasm — some people need to be reminded)"
Walker's War On Women Receives A Setback
Walker's War On Women Receives A Setback
"Because when it comes to his presidential aspirations and his insatiable craving for campaign donations, there is no position that is too extreme for Walker to to take, whether he means it or not."
"Because when it comes to his presidential aspirations and his insatiable craving for campaign donations, there is no position that is too extreme for Walker to to take, whether he means it or not."
Sam Brownback’s latest master plan to save the Kansas economy: Ban abortions
Sam Brownback’s latest master plan to save the Kansas economy: Ban abortions
"It takes a special kind of delusion to believe — despite decades of empirical evidence — that massive income tax cuts for the wealthy will unleash economic prosperity, thereby boosting job creation and increasing government revenues. Kansas Gov. Sam Brownback, however, clung to that delusion. Advised by the charlatan Art Laffer — originator of the curve — Brownback slashed income taxes for individuals and businesses, promising that his supply-side “experiment” would jump-start the Sunflower State’s economy. Instead, Kansas’ rendezvous with voodoo has created a $344 million revenue shortfall that legislators must fill by June, while the tax cuts haven’t delivered the promised economic benefits: Kansas’ rate of job growth has lagged behind that of the nation, per-capita income has remained stagnant, and the state’s GDP growth has fallen behind that of its neighbors in the Midwest and Great Plains."
"It takes a special kind of delusion to believe — despite decades of empirical evidence — that massive income tax cuts for the wealthy will unleash economic prosperity, thereby boosting job creation and increasing government revenues. Kansas Gov. Sam Brownback, however, clung to that delusion. Advised by the charlatan Art Laffer — originator of the curve — Brownback slashed income taxes for individuals and businesses, promising that his supply-side “experiment” would jump-start the Sunflower State’s economy. Instead, Kansas’ rendezvous with voodoo has created a $344 million revenue shortfall that legislators must fill by June, while the tax cuts haven’t delivered the promised economic benefits: Kansas’ rate of job growth has lagged behind that of the nation, per-capita income has remained stagnant, and the state’s GDP growth has fallen behind that of its neighbors in the Midwest and Great Plains."
Republicans’ private terror: Why they despise the modern American state — and embrace fanaticism
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."
"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."
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"."
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