Back in 2002, of the 100 largest economies in the world, 51 were corporations! Only 49 were countries. That's a staggering statistic and it's over a decade ago! Imagine what it would be now!
How did corporations get this much power? I didn't know this, but a Supreme Court ruling in 1886 relying on the 14th amendment actually said that a corporation is a "Natural Person" with rights guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution. From that point, corporations have been using that guarantee to politics and make sure they had freedom to grow their profits. (Actually, that's not true. But a court reporter published it that way.)
Are corporation inherently bad things for our society? No, but, we must recognize their goals are often in conflict with ours. For example, consider how corporate ownership of the media has limited the average citizen from having complete knowledge of the world around us. They carefully select what information we are being fed. Very few of us look more broadly for information. Many just swallow and regurgitate that the media tells them on an issue.
In addition to corporate control of our media, consider how they use media to enhance consumerism. They create the products, then, create in us the desire to acquire them.
Corporations have unequal rights. Why do they have rights that small, unincorporated businesses don't? Or Unions? According to the above referenced link, Thom Hartmann in an article, "DINOSAUR WAR", in The Ecologist, December/January 2002, explained that the 1886 Supreme Court ruling never happened! It was a fiction created by a court reporter! Hartmann goes on to explain that the Chief Justice at the time sent a note to the court reporter stating that the court had in fact ruled the opposite regarding corporate person hood! Regardless, no one can refute that the power and influence of corporations has risen to incredible levels in our modern economy.
Then, on January 21, 2010, the Supreme Court of the United States actually did rule in the Citizens United case that corporations have same free speech rights as individuals.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Citizens_United_v._FEC
As citizens, it is our duty and obligation to be aware of corporate influences and demand that our elected representatives at EVERY level of government pass law to regulate and check their insatiable quest for more and more profit at the expense of everything we hold dear.
Saturday, January 31, 2015
Friday, January 30, 2015
An Imperfect Melding
How did the anti-government, conservative wing of the Republican party get so cozy with corporate America? That is the question David Niose tackles in chapter 4 of his book, FIGHTING BACK THE RIGHT-Reclaiming America from the Attack on Reason. Chapter Four is titled, "Boomer Bust". In it Niose describes the melding of the religious right with conservative politics. Once that was complete, Niose believes, some politicians began to feel and to act on asserting their religion into their politics, missing opportunities to speak to the idea of mixing religion and politics.
Where do the Boomer's fit in to the picture? Born between 1946 and 1964, this important demographic helped shape American culture and politics. I am a baby boomer. I had a great childhood with parents who gave me material comforts that they themselves had missed. Other boomers may have rebelled a bit as they grew up questioning societal values and norms, but, I was more traditional and chose the values of my parents. Most of the boomers ended up conforming to the system as well. As we aged, most boomers drifted away from Liberalism. Hence the opening for the religious right to gain momentum in politics.
It seems that unregulated corporatism would be antithetical to the religious right. Corporations are inherently materialistic and survive on a consumer-based economy. Religions teach that spiritual goods are more important than material goods. Yet, somehow the two, unregulated corporatism and religion, became, as Niose puts it, "powerful bedfellows."
Here's what Niose says about the melding, "Fortunately for corporate interests, fundamentalist Christians by and large have little trouble reconciling their theology with a modern, materialistic lifestyle." Think Joel Olsteen, who preaches that "God wants you to prosper and have plenty of money."
I plan future posts on unregulated corporatism as I truly believe this is an inherently evil force in our society that we must confront and combat.
Where do the Boomer's fit in to the picture? Born between 1946 and 1964, this important demographic helped shape American culture and politics. I am a baby boomer. I had a great childhood with parents who gave me material comforts that they themselves had missed. Other boomers may have rebelled a bit as they grew up questioning societal values and norms, but, I was more traditional and chose the values of my parents. Most of the boomers ended up conforming to the system as well. As we aged, most boomers drifted away from Liberalism. Hence the opening for the religious right to gain momentum in politics.
It seems that unregulated corporatism would be antithetical to the religious right. Corporations are inherently materialistic and survive on a consumer-based economy. Religions teach that spiritual goods are more important than material goods. Yet, somehow the two, unregulated corporatism and religion, became, as Niose puts it, "powerful bedfellows."
Here's what Niose says about the melding, "Fortunately for corporate interests, fundamentalist Christians by and large have little trouble reconciling their theology with a modern, materialistic lifestyle." Think Joel Olsteen, who preaches that "God wants you to prosper and have plenty of money."
I plan future posts on unregulated corporatism as I truly believe this is an inherently evil force in our society that we must confront and combat.
Thursday, January 29, 2015
Corporations are People?? Part 1
Corporations are people says Mitt Romney. Well, if they are, then, they have no souls! I've been reading David Niose' new book, FIGHTING BACK THE RIGHT-Reclaiming America from the Attack on Reason. In chapter three, he tells about the early use of corporations to pool individual money for a project while limiting individual liability. In the early days of America, corporations were formed to build things. Now, they've morphed into profit making entities that have no souls.
Niose tells how Milton Friedman, whom he calls an icon of American libertarianism, "pointed out that officers who direct corporate assets toward charity are breaching their fiduciary duty unless they can show that doing so somehow adds to the corporate bottom line." Here's a link: http://www.umich.edu/~thecore/doc/Friedman.pdf
Increasing profits is the one and only goal of corporations. All their decisions are based on that one guiding principal. They don't consider what is good for the consumer unless the corporation is somehow benefited in the long term. Think tobacco companies or automobile recalls.
Now, we have gigantic corporations which are owned by other corporations. The problem being that real human ownership is now very far removed from the typical corporate "person". Niose tells of General Electric as a prime example. According to him, the largest institutional investors hold over 400 million shares each. He says even the 20th largest institutional investor holds over 70 million shares. There isn't a single human shareholder that comes close to that number.
Niose does not suggest that the corporate model be thrown out. But, he emphatically asserts that dismantling of government regulations is not an answer.
The reality is that we need institutions and corporations. Regulating their activities, however, Niose asserts is NOT socialism. We need rational, independent thinking that questions authority. We progressives are free thinkers and we can deliver, he says, but we have been suppressed for over three decades. Stay tuned for more in next post.
Niose tells how Milton Friedman, whom he calls an icon of American libertarianism, "pointed out that officers who direct corporate assets toward charity are breaching their fiduciary duty unless they can show that doing so somehow adds to the corporate bottom line." Here's a link: http://www.umich.edu/~thecore/doc/Friedman.pdf
Increasing profits is the one and only goal of corporations. All their decisions are based on that one guiding principal. They don't consider what is good for the consumer unless the corporation is somehow benefited in the long term. Think tobacco companies or automobile recalls.
Now, we have gigantic corporations which are owned by other corporations. The problem being that real human ownership is now very far removed from the typical corporate "person". Niose tells of General Electric as a prime example. According to him, the largest institutional investors hold over 400 million shares each. He says even the 20th largest institutional investor holds over 70 million shares. There isn't a single human shareholder that comes close to that number.
Niose does not suggest that the corporate model be thrown out. But, he emphatically asserts that dismantling of government regulations is not an answer.
The reality is that we need institutions and corporations. Regulating their activities, however, Niose asserts is NOT socialism. We need rational, independent thinking that questions authority. We progressives are free thinkers and we can deliver, he says, but we have been suppressed for over three decades. Stay tuned for more in next post.
Tuesday, January 27, 2015
Did You Know?
Did you know that disabled veterans are currently being penalized by a statute that requires a dollar for dollar offset of military retirement pay for VA disability compensation? So if a VET is getting a military pension and disability benefit they are having their earned pension reduced by the amount of disability compensation they receive. Think about that for a minute. They earned their pension, they became disabled serving our country, and now they lose money from their pension. How fair is that?
This issue needs to be addressed in our Congress. Last year, the 113th Congress had a bill, HR333, with 130 cosponsors (87 Democrats and 33 Republicans) There is a Facebook page that addresses the concerns of these Veterans: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Chapter-61-Military-Disabled-Retirees/287855611230152
Now, the issue has been introduced into the 114th Congress. It was introduced on January 13, 2015 by Rep. Bilirakis (R) of Florida and is HR303. It has been referred to the Committee on Armed Services and to the Committee on Verterans' Affairs. https://www.congress.gov/bill/114th-congress/house-bill/303/cosponsors
If you think our Congress should remedy this issue, then please contact members of those two committees and ask for action on HR303. You can find them here: http://www.house.gov/committees/
This issue needs to be addressed in our Congress. Last year, the 113th Congress had a bill, HR333, with 130 cosponsors (87 Democrats and 33 Republicans) There is a Facebook page that addresses the concerns of these Veterans: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Chapter-61-Military-Disabled-Retirees/287855611230152
Now, the issue has been introduced into the 114th Congress. It was introduced on January 13, 2015 by Rep. Bilirakis (R) of Florida and is HR303. It has been referred to the Committee on Armed Services and to the Committee on Verterans' Affairs. https://www.congress.gov/bill/114th-congress/house-bill/303/cosponsors
If you think our Congress should remedy this issue, then please contact members of those two committees and ask for action on HR303. You can find them here: http://www.house.gov/committees/
How to Know Which Media to Trust
How do you decide which media to trust? As more media outlets are owned by just a few corporations, Americans really need a guide to help them decide what is trustworthy information. I found an article by Tom Rosenstiel, President of the American Press Institute, where he suggests six questions to ask to determine the trustworthiness of a news source. http://www.americanpressinstitute.org/publications/six-critical-questions-can-use-evaluate-media-content/
The Pew Research Center posted a report on a project that sheds light on the political polarization in America today. It is well worth a careful read: http://www.journalism.org/2014/10/21/political-polarization-media-habits/ One big take away from the article is that Liberals get their information from a variety of sources; where Conservatives tend to rely mainly on Fox.
Here are Rosenstiel's six questions to ask yourself: 1. What type of content is this?
2. Who and what are sources cited and why should I believe them?
3. What is the evidence and how was it vetted?
4. Is the main point of the piece proven by the evidence?
5. What's missing?
6. Am I learning everyday what I need?
If you like these questions and find them useful, then please consider a careful read of his article linked above.
Pat Taylor Fuller is an Editor for Progressive Democrats - Moving Forward, Not Back
https://www.facebook.com/ProgressiveDemocratsMovingForwardNotBack
Find us on Twitter at @PDMFNB and see our Hashtag there: #PDMFNB.
Find us on Twitter at @PDMFNB and see our Hashtag there: #PDMFNB.
Monday, January 26, 2015
Why We Need Unions
I've been a supporter of unions and a union member most of my life. I believe in them and know they are good for workers and good for America. I was thrilled last week when our President said in the State of the Union address that we need laws that strengthen unions. http://peoplesworld.org/call-for-stronger-labor-law-first-for-obama-on-national-television/
I once had a conversation with a CEO about teacher's wages. He asked what I thought and I told him! I reminded him I had over 20 years in education and a Master's degree yet my husband, a machine repairman at Caterpillar always made more money than I did. The Ceo's response was that his higher wage was because of the UAW. You see, they wouldn't have paid him more unless they HAD to!
When states weaken laws that protect workers, they set up companies to be able to reduce workers' incomes and benefits. How can that possibly be good for the economy? It might be good for corporate profits, but in the end, they are "killing the goose that laid the golden egg."
If you believe our President is right about strengthening unions, then please let your elected officials at state and Federal levels know you support unions and laws that protect them.
Pat Taylor Fuller is an Editor for Progressive Democrats - Moving Forward, Not Back, and she has a blogspot named Pat's Commentary
http://pageposts1123.blogspot.com/
Find us on Twitter at @PDMFNB and see our Hashtag there: #PDMFNB.
Pat Taylor Fuller is an Editor for Progressive Democrats - Moving Forward, Not Back, and she has a blogspot named Pat's Commentary
http://pageposts1123.blogspot.com/
Find us on Twitter at @PDMFNB and see our Hashtag there: #PDMFNB.
Saturday, January 24, 2015
Everybody Knows that Climate Change is Real
Just this week our Senate voted to affirm scientific theory regarding climate change. Of course, it then voted that it wasn't our fault. I wonder if that vote had anything to do with the $56 million that gas and oil companies gave in campaign monies. "According to the nonpartisan Center for Responsive Politics, oil and gas interests in the most recent election cycle (2013-14) gave about $56 million to the campaigns of parties, candidates and outside interest groups. The overwhelming preponderance of this money went to Republicans and outside interest groups favoring Republicans."
http://www.npr.org/blogs/itsallpolitics/2015/01/23/379242432/senate-says-climate-change-real-but-not-really-our-fault?utm_source=twitter.com&utm_campaign=politics&utm_medium=social&utm_term=nprnew
Am I being cynical or realistic? In the State of the Union (SOTU) address last Tuesday, the President reminded us of the historic agreement he'd reached with China: "In Beijing, we made an historic announcement – the United States will double the pace at which we cut carbon pollution, and China committed, for the first time, to limiting their emissions." I hope that both countries live up to the accord.
http://www.vox.com/2015/1/20/7864149/state-of-the-union-2015-policy
If the American people really did like what the President had to say in the #SOTU , then they will support his agenda by letting their elected representatives know that.
http://www.npr.org/blogs/itsallpolitics/2015/01/23/379242432/senate-says-climate-change-real-but-not-really-our-fault?utm_source=twitter.com&utm_campaign=politics&utm_medium=social&utm_term=nprnew
Am I being cynical or realistic? In the State of the Union (SOTU) address last Tuesday, the President reminded us of the historic agreement he'd reached with China: "In Beijing, we made an historic announcement – the United States will double the pace at which we cut carbon pollution, and China committed, for the first time, to limiting their emissions." I hope that both countries live up to the accord.
http://www.vox.com/2015/1/20/7864149/state-of-the-union-2015-policy
If the American people really did like what the President had to say in the #SOTU , then they will support his agenda by letting their elected representatives know that.
Friday, January 23, 2015
America's Aging Infrastructure
There's no disputing that America's aging infrastructure needs help. In the State of the Union address last Tuesday the President said we need a bipartisan bill passed in Congress to fix our roads and bridges. President Obama and Vice President Biden took that message on the road back in May. They had lunch at Shake Shack in DuPont Circle with some construction workers. See: http://www.vox.com/2014/5/6/5683950/obamas-doomed-plan-to-fix-the-highway-funding-crisis
The President wants to pay for it by raising taxes on corporations that actually pay taxes. It's probably not going to happen with this Republican Congress, however. But, there is some talk of raising the gas tax to pay for some infrastructure work.
What do you think? If you agree with the President that our roads and bridges need some major attention, then, please let your representatives in Congress know your expectations. If we don't demand some action, they will likely not address this pressing need.
The President wants to pay for it by raising taxes on corporations that actually pay taxes. It's probably not going to happen with this Republican Congress, however. But, there is some talk of raising the gas tax to pay for some infrastructure work.
What do you think? If you agree with the President that our roads and bridges need some major attention, then, please let your representatives in Congress know your expectations. If we don't demand some action, they will likely not address this pressing need.
Thursday, January 22, 2015
Healthy Families Act
During the State of the Union (SOTU) President Obama announced plans to help Americans get sick leave at their places of employment. His initiative is the Healthy Families Act. I was surprised to learn that over 40 million workers do not have paid sick leave. That means many come to work ill because they have bills to pay. I don't know about you, but, I really don't want my server bringing my meal to me when they are sick.
You can read more about it here: http://www.vox.com/2015/1/14/7548293/obamas-proposal-to-give-workers-seven-days-sick-leave
Don't you think it's a fair and good idea? If so, then please let your representatives in Congress know that you support our President's plan. An email or phone call is easy to do. Just go to Senate.gov or House.gov and look up your representative then click on the contact tab.
You can read more about it here: http://www.vox.com/2015/1/14/7548293/obamas-proposal-to-give-workers-seven-days-sick-leave
Don't you think it's a fair and good idea? If so, then please let your representatives in Congress know that you support our President's plan. An email or phone call is easy to do. Just go to Senate.gov or House.gov and look up your representative then click on the contact tab.
Wednesday, January 21, 2015
Progressive Taxation
Nobody wants to be poor. Nobody wants to work for $7.25/hr. Nobody wants to be on Food Stamps or have to rely on Social Security Disability. If we are going to remedy these issues and many others facing our country, then we need to take a look at progressive taxation.
Democrats want to remedy the situation and Republicans seem to blame poor/low-income workers for their plight. Our President has previously discussed his concerns over income inequality and has now proposed revising the tax code with the goal of raising the incomes of lower and middle class. http://dealbook.nytimes.com/2015/01/20/echoes-of-piketty-in-obama-proposal-to-address-income-inequality/?_r=0
We can work towards fairness in our tax code. We can demand it from our representatives in Congress. Let's get our President's back on this and contact our Senators and Repesentatives.
Tuesday, January 20, 2015
President Obama's 6th State of the Union
Tonight is President Obama's 6th State of the Union address. It is unique, however, in that it is his first to a Republican lead Congress. The details of the speech aren't a secret. The President has been previewing the #SOTU in several speeches and in his weekly address. Many of his proposals are dead on arrival, the pundits say. We can do our part by tuning in and then letting our representatives know that we support the President's agenda for 2015. If enough Americans let Congress know that we are behind our President, then Congress may feel enough pressure to try to work with him. Check out what The President himself had to say about this year's #SOTU: http://thehill.com/blogs/blog-briefing-room/news/229932-obama-predicts-relaxed-sotu-performance
Pat Taylor Fuller is an Editor for Progressive Democrats - Moving Forward, Not Back, and she has a blogspot named Pat's Commentary
http://pageposts1123.blogspot.com/
On Twitter you may find us at @PDMFNB; and check out our hashtag #PDMFNB on Twitter.
Pat Taylor Fuller is an Editor for Progressive Democrats - Moving Forward, Not Back, and she has a blogspot named Pat's Commentary
http://pageposts1123.blogspot.com/
On Twitter you may find us at @PDMFNB; and check out our hashtag #PDMFNB on Twitter.
Monday, January 19, 2015
Honoring Doctor King's Legacy
Ari Berman wrote in The Nation , "No doubt many in Congress will praise Dr. King during his annual holiday and celebrate the accomplishments of the VRA on its fiftieth anniversary. But those words will ring hollow unless they honor King’s legacy by working to protect voting rights and strengthen the VRA." http://www.thenation.com/blog/195281/honor-kings-legacy-protecting-voting-rights#
In the article Berman details how the Supreme Court decision, Shelby County v. Holder in 2013, gutted the important section 4 of the Voting Rights Act that King worked to see passed by our Congress. Since the SCOTUS decision several states have enacted harsh restrictions on voting rights that have prevented many voters from exercising their rights.
We must demand that our representatives in Congress pass legislation to restore that section 4 provision. Please take action by contacting your representatives in Congress.
In the article Berman details how the Supreme Court decision, Shelby County v. Holder in 2013, gutted the important section 4 of the Voting Rights Act that King worked to see passed by our Congress. Since the SCOTUS decision several states have enacted harsh restrictions on voting rights that have prevented many voters from exercising their rights.
We must demand that our representatives in Congress pass legislation to restore that section 4 provision. Please take action by contacting your representatives in Congress.
Sunday, January 18, 2015
How to Watch the #SOTU2015
Tuesday's #SOTU2015 will be President Obama's 6th State of the Union Address. Many media outlets will be hosting viewing parties. One that I plan to watch is PBS News Hour Live from 9-11 EST. You can stream it live here: http://www.pbs.org/newshour/
They will show the President's speech, the GOP rebuttal and analysis by PBS anchors Gwen Ifill and Judy Woodruff. http://www.pbs.org/newshour/rundown/watch-2015-state-union-address/
If you are on Twitter, be sure to follow the #SOTU2015 hashtag and share the President's message with others. Go to #PDMFNB and RT all the #SOTU2015 tweets.
They will show the President's speech, the GOP rebuttal and analysis by PBS anchors Gwen Ifill and Judy Woodruff. http://www.pbs.org/newshour/rundown/watch-2015-state-union-address/
If you are on Twitter, be sure to follow the #SOTU2015 hashtag and share the President's message with others. Go to #PDMFNB and RT all the #SOTU2015 tweets.
Saturday, January 17, 2015
Getting the Word Out
You can help get the word out in social media regarding the State of the Union Address(#SOTU2015). On Tuesday, January 20, 2015, President Obama will be delivering his 6th #SOTU address. Make sure all your friends and followers know about it. The http://www.whitehouse.gov/SOTU site has several ready to so messages that you can share on social media.
Pat Taylor Fuller is an Editor for Progressive Democrats - Moving Forward, Not Back, and she has a blogspot named Pat's Commentary
http://pageposts1123.blogspot.com/
Pat Taylor Fuller is an Editor for Progressive Democrats - Moving Forward, Not Back, and she has a blogspot named Pat's Commentary
http://pageposts1123.blogspot.com/
Getting Involved at the Local Level
Some areas have active Democratic Clubs where individuals can meet and organize. This is a great place to get started if you have such clubs in your area. But what if there aren't any? As I looked for local Democratic Clubs, I was dismayed to find there were none in my area. We have a county Democratic Central Committee; but, that is for elected people who represent Democrats in our county. There really is no place for the average citizen to go to get involved in supporting the Democratic agenda and party.
I found out that several young men had tried to start a Young Democrats Club, but, it failed for lack of interest. So, my only choice is to travel outside my county or try to start one myself.
If you are in a situation like mine, where do you start? First thing that I've done is contact my state Democratic Party to see if I need to obtain a charter. After that, I will have to find a place to hold a meeting and advertise to see if I can get any local interest. If we are going to win in 2016, we can't sit around and wait for something to happen. We have to be the change.
Pat Taylor Fuller is an Editor for Progressive Democrats - Moving Forward, Not Back, and she has a blogspot named Pat's Commentary
http://pageposts1123.blogspot.com/
I found out that several young men had tried to start a Young Democrats Club, but, it failed for lack of interest. So, my only choice is to travel outside my county or try to start one myself.
If you are in a situation like mine, where do you start? First thing that I've done is contact my state Democratic Party to see if I need to obtain a charter. After that, I will have to find a place to hold a meeting and advertise to see if I can get any local interest. If we are going to win in 2016, we can't sit around and wait for something to happen. We have to be the change.
Pat Taylor Fuller is an Editor for Progressive Democrats - Moving Forward, Not Back, and she has a blogspot named Pat's Commentary
http://pageposts1123.blogspot.com/
Friday, January 16, 2015
Know Any DINO's?
Here at Progressive Democrats Moving Forward - Not Back (#PDMFNB) we have Google + Hangouts twice a week to meet and greet as well as problem solve. Wednesday's hangout ended up focusing on how to deal with DINO's. In case you don't know the acronym, DINO stands for Democrat in Name Only.
After the hangout, Laurel M Davila, the founder of our group posts a summary of the day's discussion. The members brainstormed a few great ideas: Find out through scrutiny of FEC documents who are the DINO's major contributors, contact those contributors to be sure they know how the DINO is voting, join with other progressive organizations to set a strategy for discussing concerns with the legislator and set up face to face meetings with the legislator. These are just a few of the ideas discussed on Wednesday.
If you'd like to be a participant in the hangouts, contact Laurel M Davila for an invite.
After the hangout, Laurel M Davila, the founder of our group posts a summary of the day's discussion. The members brainstormed a few great ideas: Find out through scrutiny of FEC documents who are the DINO's major contributors, contact those contributors to be sure they know how the DINO is voting, join with other progressive organizations to set a strategy for discussing concerns with the legislator and set up face to face meetings with the legislator. These are just a few of the ideas discussed on Wednesday.
If you'd like to be a participant in the hangouts, contact Laurel M Davila for an invite.
Thursday, January 15, 2015
Pander to the Base
Well, they've done it again! The House of Representatives has passed another bill that has ZERO chance of ever making it to the President's desk or would get vetoed if it did. "The measure passed in a 236-191 vote, with 10 Republicans voting against it and two Democrats voting in favor."
http://thehill.com/blogs/floor-action/house/229469-house-votes-to-defund-obamas-immigration-orders
Why pass a bill that you know is going nowhere? "The White House has already promised that President Obama would veto the DHS bill if “ideological provisions” were tied to it.
http://thehill.com/blogs/floor-action/house/229469-house-votes-to-defund-obamas-immigration-orders
Why pass a bill that you know is going nowhere? "The White House has already promised that President Obama would veto the DHS bill if “ideological provisions” were tied to it.
Senate Minority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) accused Republicans of “picking an unnecessary political fight” and vowed the House bill “will not pass the Senate.”
Simple, you can go home and tell your base you did it but the big, bad Democrats wouldn't go along. They assume their base is too ignorant to realize they are being played. maybe they are. But, it's our job to call them out every time they do it. That way the people who voted for these Republicans will learn what fools they have elected. Eventually, even the most die hard Republican will get sick and tired of them wasting taxpayer's money on useless bills. We can hope!Wednesday, January 14, 2015
The GOP Threat to Social Security
Remember how the GOP campaigned on cutting taxes for corporations and cutting Social Security benefits? Neither do I. Yet, it seems that is exactly what they plan to do. Does anyone seriously think the GOP Congress actually cares what the American people want? Instead of listening to the myriad of polls that tell them we want Social Security and Medicare strengthened, not cut, the GOP in Congress are trying to create a fake crisis in Social Security Disability to then proceed with their privatization plans. Dylan Scott at Talking Points Memo tells about their plans. http://talkingpointsmemo.com/dc/gop-social-security-di-next-move
If this topic interests you, then please check out http://www.ncpssm.org/ The National Committee to Preserve Social Security and Medicare has a great website and a Take Action tab.
Last week, while we were noticing other things, House GOP pushed through a little rule change that goes far in accomplishing their goal of creating a crisis. In case you missed it: http://news.yahoo.com/little-recourse-seen-democrats-social-security-rule-change-233948421--business.html
If we don't stay alert and focused, they will do more of this in other areas. Tell them to Back Off Social Security and let them know you are watching what they are doing. That is the only way we can hold them accountable.
If this topic interests you, then please check out http://www.ncpssm.org/ The National Committee to Preserve Social Security and Medicare has a great website and a Take Action tab.
Last week, while we were noticing other things, House GOP pushed through a little rule change that goes far in accomplishing their goal of creating a crisis. In case you missed it: http://news.yahoo.com/little-recourse-seen-democrats-social-security-rule-change-233948421--business.html
If we don't stay alert and focused, they will do more of this in other areas. Tell them to Back Off Social Security and let them know you are watching what they are doing. That is the only way we can hold them accountable.
Tuesday, January 13, 2015
Anti-intellectual #FoxNewsFacts
If you want to read some funny tweets, check out the #FoxNewsFacts hashtag on Twitter. It was started in the United Kingdom in response to a story on Fox News that was based on lies. This link explains what happens when Fox tries to air lies about a city in the United Kingdom(UK): http://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/foxnewsfacts-twitter-users-react-with-aplomb-to-news-that-birmingham-is-a-nogo-zone-for-nonmuslims-9971829.html
You see the folks in the UK aren't going to stand back and allow Fox News to spread lies without any recourse. Now the hashtag is gaining such traction that Fox News claims to have set up a special twitter account: @FoxNewsPress to counter and react to any lies told about Fox on the hashtag. Poetic justice is what I call it.
Everyday, we on the Left must push back HARD on the lies that the Right will be trying to promote. Fox News is just one part of the problem. Whenever we see their propaganda, we must speak out and call it out.
You see the folks in the UK aren't going to stand back and allow Fox News to spread lies without any recourse. Now the hashtag is gaining such traction that Fox News claims to have set up a special twitter account: @FoxNewsPress to counter and react to any lies told about Fox on the hashtag. Poetic justice is what I call it.
Everyday, we on the Left must push back HARD on the lies that the Right will be trying to promote. Fox News is just one part of the problem. Whenever we see their propaganda, we must speak out and call it out.
Monday, January 12, 2015
The Obama Economy
For the past four years the GOP talking point has been "The Obama Economy." None of the leading Republicans could take to the microphone without droning on about the "Obama Economy".
Then in an amazing about-face, the GOP Senate leader, Mitch McConnell, stepped up to the microphone last week and declared the improving economy a direct result of Republicans being elected in November. Just like GOP were told to repeat 9/11 endlessly to justify their war with Iraq, they are now being told to declare the improved economy is their fault.
For those who insist on facts rather than talking points, however, the facts are clear. Here is a Rasmussen Report from December of 2013: http://www.rasmussenreports.com/public_content/political_commentary/commentary_by_froma_harrop/obama_may_be_best_economic_president_ever
More recently, just before the November election, Forbes Magazine ran an article entitled, "Obama Outperforms Reagan on Jobs, Growth, and Investing."
http://www.forbes.com/sites/adamhartung/2014/09/05/obama-outperforms-reagan-on-jobs-growth-and-investing/
Here's another Forbes article from May of 2013:
http://www.forbes.com/sites/adamhartung/2013/05/16/economically-could-obama-be-americas-best-president/
Here's the truth: America's Resurgence is Real: http://www.whitehouse.gov/blog/2015/01/10/weekly-address-america-s-resurgence-real
And the GOP MUST NOT BE ALLOWED TO TAKE CREDIT FOR IT!
Then in an amazing about-face, the GOP Senate leader, Mitch McConnell, stepped up to the microphone last week and declared the improving economy a direct result of Republicans being elected in November. Just like GOP were told to repeat 9/11 endlessly to justify their war with Iraq, they are now being told to declare the improved economy is their fault.
For those who insist on facts rather than talking points, however, the facts are clear. Here is a Rasmussen Report from December of 2013: http://www.rasmussenreports.com/public_content/political_commentary/commentary_by_froma_harrop/obama_may_be_best_economic_president_ever
More recently, just before the November election, Forbes Magazine ran an article entitled, "Obama Outperforms Reagan on Jobs, Growth, and Investing."
http://www.forbes.com/sites/adamhartung/2014/09/05/obama-outperforms-reagan-on-jobs-growth-and-investing/
Here's another Forbes article from May of 2013:
http://www.forbes.com/sites/adamhartung/2013/05/16/economically-could-obama-be-americas-best-president/
Here's the truth: America's Resurgence is Real: http://www.whitehouse.gov/blog/2015/01/10/weekly-address-america-s-resurgence-real
And the GOP MUST NOT BE ALLOWED TO TAKE CREDIT FOR IT!
Saturday, January 10, 2015
Getting a Higher Education in America
For middle class families, getting their children through college is full of peril. Most families in the middle class already have both parents working to support the family. Why not make it easier for their children to get an education? That's what our President has proposed. If a young person is willing to work hard and focus on school, then they will be able to get their first two years of college paid for under his plan. As expected, GOP heads exploded at the outrage. How can we pay for it? Why should they get something so important for free? Because the reality is that income inequality is getting worse and education is one way to address access to higher income. That's pretty simple, isn't it? So remember that when you hear all the out cry over the President's plan. http://www.nytimes.com/2015/01/09/us/politics/obama-proposes-free-community-college-education-for-some-students.html?_r=0
Here's is a great pdf to share that makes the case for getting a higher education: http://www.usc.edu/dept/chepa/IDApays/resources/education_important.pdf
Other industrialized countries have made this a priority and we should, too.
Here's is a great pdf to share that makes the case for getting a higher education: http://www.usc.edu/dept/chepa/IDApays/resources/education_important.pdf
Other industrialized countries have made this a priority and we should, too.
Friday, January 9, 2015
Fundamentalism
Fundamentalism is the antithesis of freedom. Most religions have factions that we call extremist. They place restrictions on their members. But not all of them encourage violence as a methodology for dealing with dissent. When any religion begins to limit the freedoms we enjoy in society, then that religion becomes the enemy of society.
When any group tries to shut us up, then our best response is to speak louder! These religious fundamentalists have a war against modern times. And they use lethal force in their war. They kill those who dare to oppose them. Here's a good read on the subject: http://www.patheos.com/blogs/monkeymind/2015/01/a-small-rant-about-religious-fundamentalism.html
Our freedom is at stake here. Will society allow religious fundamentalism to dictate to us?
Let us stand up together to support our freedoms. Vote out GOP fundamentalists before they destroy our country.
When any group tries to shut us up, then our best response is to speak louder! These religious fundamentalists have a war against modern times. And they use lethal force in their war. They kill those who dare to oppose them. Here's a good read on the subject: http://www.patheos.com/blogs/monkeymind/2015/01/a-small-rant-about-religious-fundamentalism.html
Our freedom is at stake here. Will society allow religious fundamentalism to dictate to us?
Let us stand up together to support our freedoms. Vote out GOP fundamentalists before they destroy our country.
Thursday, January 8, 2015
Rules are Boring - Who Needs Rules?
In a civil society, rules are a necessary tool. We cannot conduct any business without a few rules of conduct. Manners are simply rules of behavior we are taught that guide us in social situations. In today's world we still use Robert's Rules to guide us in conducting our meetings. Why? Isn't that boring and passe'? Who needs it? We do!
You see Robert's Rules has four guiding principles:
Justice and courtesy for all
Doing only one thing at a time
The majority rules
The minority has a right to be heard. http://toastmastersdivisiong.wordpress.com/2012/05/31/are-you-familiar-with-roberts-rules-of-order/
I, personally, believe that EVERY meeting of individuals would be better if we all agreed to follow a common set of rules to guide our behavior. Take a look at this document prepared for Cornell University Faculty meetings: http://theuniversityfaculty.cornell.edu/meetings/RobertsRulesSimplified.pdf
Now, imagine how nice it would be if we all followed this protocol.
"Guiding Principle:
Everyone has the right to participate in discussion if they wish, before anyone may speak a
second time.
Everyone has the right to know what is going on at all times.
Only urgent matters may interrupt a speaker.
Only one thing (motion) can be discussed at a time."
You see Robert's Rules has four guiding principles:
Justice and courtesy for all
Doing only one thing at a time
The majority rules
The minority has a right to be heard. http://toastmastersdivisiong.wordpress.com/2012/05/31/are-you-familiar-with-roberts-rules-of-order/
I, personally, believe that EVERY meeting of individuals would be better if we all agreed to follow a common set of rules to guide our behavior. Take a look at this document prepared for Cornell University Faculty meetings: http://theuniversityfaculty.cornell.edu/meetings/RobertsRulesSimplified.pdf
Now, imagine how nice it would be if we all followed this protocol.
"Guiding Principle:
Everyone has the right to participate in discussion if they wish, before anyone may speak a
second time.
Everyone has the right to know what is going on at all times.
Only urgent matters may interrupt a speaker.
Only one thing (motion) can be discussed at a time."
Whenever we have a group of people gathered together for a common task, we need an agreed upon set of rules and people who are adept in understanding and applying them to the task at hand.
Let's Talk Campaign Finance Reform
Getting money out of politics is a noble goal but is it realistic? The recent Cromnibus is an example of what we can expect from Congress. Does anyone seriously think that they want limits on campaign contributions? Back in September of 2014, the Senate actually did try to overturn the Citizens United decision. Fifty-four Senators voted in favor of a constitutional amendment to do just that.(Democrats and Independents) But forty-two Senators, all Republicans, voted no effectively filibustering the measure. http://www.thenation.com/blog/181590/senate-tried-overturn-citizens-united-today-guess-what-stopped-them#
Now that we have Republican majorities in both the House and the Senate, we won't be seeing any efforts to reform campaign contributions. One writer suggests that real reform is unlikely in Congress but may have a chance at the state level. Paul Blumenthal reports in Huffington Post on those state level initiatives. http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/12/20/campaign-finance-reform-states_n_6357182.html
There are also several citizen led efforts that you might want to look at and support. Clean up Washington is a grassroots campaign by Public Citizen, a national public interest organization. You can research more about them here: http://www.citizen.org/Page.aspx?pid=183
Another group to look at is Americans for Campaign Finance Reform. They have joined up with Fund for the Republic and have this website: https://www.issueone.org/ Their united effort's goal is to fix the problem of money in politics.
Campaign finance reform is kind of like the weather, everyone talks about it but no one seems to do anything about it. Well, here is a start. If you don't like either of these groups, then find one you can support and do something this year.
Now that we have Republican majorities in both the House and the Senate, we won't be seeing any efforts to reform campaign contributions. One writer suggests that real reform is unlikely in Congress but may have a chance at the state level. Paul Blumenthal reports in Huffington Post on those state level initiatives. http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/12/20/campaign-finance-reform-states_n_6357182.html
There are also several citizen led efforts that you might want to look at and support. Clean up Washington is a grassroots campaign by Public Citizen, a national public interest organization. You can research more about them here: http://www.citizen.org/Page.aspx?pid=183
Another group to look at is Americans for Campaign Finance Reform. They have joined up with Fund for the Republic and have this website: https://www.issueone.org/ Their united effort's goal is to fix the problem of money in politics.
Campaign finance reform is kind of like the weather, everyone talks about it but no one seems to do anything about it. Well, here is a start. If you don't like either of these groups, then find one you can support and do something this year.
Wednesday, January 7, 2015
What Can We Do in 2015?
Gail Mountain, another editor on the Progressive Democrats Moving Forward, Not Back FaceBook page recently wrote an end of the year blog. In it she listed her top 10 resolutions for 2015. I thought it was so good that I want us to take another look at what Gail thinks is good for Progressive Democrats to work on this year.
Here are her 10 resolutions:
1. Stay focused on the Democratic Platform. http://www.democrats.org/democratic-national-platform
2. Remember that the GOP are NOT the Tea Party, which actually was a patriotic group from our history that stood up against taxation without representation. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Boston_Tea_Party
3. Because the GOP are so good at lying and cheating, we Democrats must WAKE UP and FIGHT BACK. http://www.dailykos.com/story/2005/03/02/96330/-Luntz-GOP-Playbook-Now-Readable-online-No-Downloads-Searchable-Text
4. Get everyone to GO TO THE SOURCE for information: http://www.whitehouse.gov/ has amazing writers and facts that we Democrats can share on social media.
5. Let main stream media know when they are doing good job and give them feedback when they aren't.
6.Use Hashtags to capture the attention of our Democratic base. #immigration #waronwomen #racism
7.Never waste time on fools who only want to distract us from getting out the Democratic message.(trolls)
8. Stand by the U.S.Constitution http://www.archives.gov/exhibits/charters/constitution_transcript.html
9. Walk away from the computer and http://zenhabits.net/3-ways-to-claim-your-life-back-how-to-step-away-from-your-computer/
10. Really, actually walk away from the computer more often. (Tip: set timer) http://www.thelawofattraction.com/step-away-from-the-pc-screen-50-things-to-do-that-dont-involve-your-computer/
I think Gail's resolutions are excellent, don't you? I hope this helps you think about how you can help this year to make sure we elect a DEMOCRAT for president in 2016. The actions we take this year will set the stage for victory in 2016.
Here are her 10 resolutions:
1. Stay focused on the Democratic Platform. http://www.democrats.org/democratic-national-platform
2. Remember that the GOP are NOT the Tea Party, which actually was a patriotic group from our history that stood up against taxation without representation. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Boston_Tea_Party
3. Because the GOP are so good at lying and cheating, we Democrats must WAKE UP and FIGHT BACK. http://www.dailykos.com/story/2005/03/02/96330/-Luntz-GOP-Playbook-Now-Readable-online-No-Downloads-Searchable-Text
4. Get everyone to GO TO THE SOURCE for information: http://www.whitehouse.gov/ has amazing writers and facts that we Democrats can share on social media.
5. Let main stream media know when they are doing good job and give them feedback when they aren't.
6.Use Hashtags to capture the attention of our Democratic base. #immigration #waronwomen #racism
7.Never waste time on fools who only want to distract us from getting out the Democratic message.(trolls)
8. Stand by the U.S.Constitution http://www.archives.gov/exhibits/charters/constitution_transcript.html
9. Walk away from the computer and http://zenhabits.net/3-ways-to-claim-your-life-back-how-to-step-away-from-your-computer/
10. Really, actually walk away from the computer more often. (Tip: set timer) http://www.thelawofattraction.com/step-away-from-the-pc-screen-50-things-to-do-that-dont-involve-your-computer/
I think Gail's resolutions are excellent, don't you? I hope this helps you think about how you can help this year to make sure we elect a DEMOCRAT for president in 2016. The actions we take this year will set the stage for victory in 2016.
Tuesday, January 6, 2015
Issues We Face in 2015 - Income Inequality
"Income inequality refers to the extent to which income is distributed in an uneven manner among a population. In the United States, income inequality, or the gap between the rich and everyone else, has been growing markedly, by every major statistical measure, for some 30 years." http://inequality.org/income-inequality/
How does this trend impact our society? There have always been rich and poor. If we could somehow re-distribute all the money equally, how long before we'd be back to rich and poor again? But, the problem now is that the entire system is rigged to make it very easy for the rich to get richer and very likely that the poor will get poorer. This inequality divides the races and separates people within races. It makes it harder for poor people to get an education and to break out of poverty. And it makes it easier for the rich to get everything they want. Here's a link that a friend shared with me: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QPKKQnijnsM&feature=youtu.be
If you take about 6 minutes to watch this, it will blow your mind. Then realize that it was done in 2012!
It's time we wake up! We are like the proverbial frog, sitting in our warm tub, getting cooked before we realize what's happening. I saw this headline and article posted recently on Facebook:
How does this trend impact our society? There have always been rich and poor. If we could somehow re-distribute all the money equally, how long before we'd be back to rich and poor again? But, the problem now is that the entire system is rigged to make it very easy for the rich to get richer and very likely that the poor will get poorer. This inequality divides the races and separates people within races. It makes it harder for poor people to get an education and to break out of poverty. And it makes it easier for the rich to get everything they want. Here's a link that a friend shared with me: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QPKKQnijnsM&feature=youtu.be
If you take about 6 minutes to watch this, it will blow your mind. Then realize that it was done in 2012!
It's time we wake up! We are like the proverbial frog, sitting in our warm tub, getting cooked before we realize what's happening. I saw this headline and article posted recently on Facebook:
80 percent of U.S. adults face near-poverty, unemployment, survey finds http://www.cbsnews.com/news/80-percent-of-us-adults-face-near-poverty-unemployment-survey-
I remember thinking at the time, "Oh, no! That has to be wrong!" Yet, when I research it, I find that the data supports it. How can this be happening in our country? What can we do about it? Well, the first thing we must do is WAKE THE HELL UP! and WAKE UP OUR FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORS!
After we WAKE UP, we ORGANIZE: http://inequality.org/t/organizing/
We EDUCATE ourselves. http://inequality.org/resources/ http://www.pewresearch.org/topics/income-inequality/
and we start to FIX the problem: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/preeti-vissa/fixing-income-inequality_b_5001075.html
And we don't fix it by teaching poor people how to live on less! That's ridiculous! Yet, I saw many articles that suggested just that. A Forbes article says the have nots must become the do somethings!
The Atlantic Monthly says to fix America's wealth inequality, just teach thrift, frugality, and savings!!!
The following article presents views that I would categorize as representing the Left and Right political views on income inequality and how to fix it or whether it can or should be fixed. http://financesonline.com/income-inequality-views-solutions-from-experts/
If you believe it is morally wrong for wealth to be so unfairly distributed and that this unfairness is at the root of many social issues our country faces; then, I strongly urge you to become politically active this year. I believe we MUST elect a Democratic president and return the Senate to Democratic leadership. We must gain seats in the House and in state legislatures across this land. Will you do something about it? Start locally, then in your state, and finally at the National level. Support Democrats and demand action.
Monday, January 5, 2015
A Lyin' Bully
I ran across an article by Molly Ivins in Mother Jones called, "A Lyin' Bully." It was published in 1995. It was about Rush Limbaugh. Ivins called him a lyin' bully who picks on dead people, little girls, and the homeless, none of which can fight back. You see, Ivins made her living making fun of politicians. But, she strongly objected to Limbaugh's type of political rhetoric. You can read the article here: http://www.motherjones.com/politics/1995/05/lyin-bully
I find it amazing that 20 yrs later we still have what Ivins decried as, "plain old nastiness in our political discussion." Indeed, it may even have gotten uglier. Like Ivins, I think we must take Limbaugh seriously. He has an audience that feeds on his vitriol. Limbaugh appeals to the lowest common denominator. He invites class hatred and feeds the racism that is barely under the surface in America today. For this reason alone, Rush Limbaugh is a dangerous force in American politics and HE MUST BE STOPPED.
There is ONE thing you can do to achieve that goal. Just stop buying anything from companies that advertise and support his show. Here is one article that lists some of his main advertisers: http://www.dailykos.com/story/2014/12/28/1353710/-10-Rush-Limbaugh-Sponsors-Every-Liberal-Should-Boycott# I agree that every Liberal should boycott these sponsors of Rush's hate machine. And I think you should let them know why you are stopping buying their products. Money is the only language they comprehend. Show them with your pocketbook that you find Limbaugh's program to be disgusting!
You can also support the #StopRUSH hashtag on Twitter. If we all work together, perhaps we can get this bombastic, dangerous fool off the air.
I find it amazing that 20 yrs later we still have what Ivins decried as, "plain old nastiness in our political discussion." Indeed, it may even have gotten uglier. Like Ivins, I think we must take Limbaugh seriously. He has an audience that feeds on his vitriol. Limbaugh appeals to the lowest common denominator. He invites class hatred and feeds the racism that is barely under the surface in America today. For this reason alone, Rush Limbaugh is a dangerous force in American politics and HE MUST BE STOPPED.
There is ONE thing you can do to achieve that goal. Just stop buying anything from companies that advertise and support his show. Here is one article that lists some of his main advertisers: http://www.dailykos.com/story/2014/12/28/1353710/-10-Rush-Limbaugh-Sponsors-Every-Liberal-Should-Boycott# I agree that every Liberal should boycott these sponsors of Rush's hate machine. And I think you should let them know why you are stopping buying their products. Money is the only language they comprehend. Show them with your pocketbook that you find Limbaugh's program to be disgusting!
You can also support the #StopRUSH hashtag on Twitter. If we all work together, perhaps we can get this bombastic, dangerous fool off the air.
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