I have been a member of UniteBlue.org since February of 2013. When I joined, I had about 2400 followers on Twitter. Since joining, I have gotten over 17,300 new followers. UniteBlue.org is a "progressive community that first took root on Twitter." http://uniteblue.org/info/about/ It's core mission is to "connect, empower and amplify the Left." Over one million connections have been made through this organization. It is run by volunteers and only exists by donations. Why should you contribute to UniteBlue.org? Please read Zach Green's commentary for the answer: http://uniteblue.org/community/2014/09/we-need-your-help/
I know you are being asked on a daily basis for donations to important causes. I am too. BUT, we have to step up to the plate now, before it's too late. Right now the Values Voters' Summit is happening in Washington DC. They think their values are the only ones of importance to America! They are wrong and you and I know it! They have plenty of sponsors, from Family Research Council to the Liberty Council/Institute. If we sit on our pocketbooks and let these folks have all the political influence, they plan to set up a Theocracy and legislate their values and ONLY their values. If you think I am exaggerating, just take a look at their summit. It is being aired on C-span2 and has a live feed to the main speakers. If you are on Twitter, check out the tweets on #VVS14 and you will see what they plan for us.
If everyone who is a member of UniteBlue.org and others on the left would just donate $5.00, this wonderful organization can continue its presence on Twitter to counter-balance the negativity of the right wing. Please consider going to https://uniteblue.org/donate/index.php and doing your part for the Liberal cause. Thank you.
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/
Saturday, September 27, 2014
Friday, September 26, 2014
Which Ratings Will Matter?
Many pundits believe that low presidential approval ratings are bad for the same party candidates in the midterm elections. But, is that really true? A recent article in the Wall Street Journal questioned the validity of that belief. They suggest that past elections see that trend, but, it is not a given.
http://blogs.wsj.com/washwire/2014/09/22/do-presidential-approval-ratings-really-matter-in-midterm-elections/
The disapproval ratings of the US Congress, however, may have an impact on the midterm election outcomes, suggests an article from FiveThirtyEight.com . Harry Enten's June 18th article, "Congress' Low Approval Rating is Hurting Republicans", says that voters feelings about Republican control of Congress may very well affect how they vote in the midterm election. http://fivethirtyeight.com/datalab/congresss-low-approval-rating-is-hurting-republicans/ Remember that this article was written before Congress recessed for a FIVE week vacation in August, returned to work for EIGHT days, and then recessed until after the midterm election. The Sept. 8 release of Gallop poll has Congress at their lowest approval rating in history! 14% Gallop's own analysis suggested that voters will be voting Democratic this fall. http://www.miamiherald.com/incoming/article1991336.html
So, don't give up. Keep posting POSITIVE messages about our President and his achievements. If you need ideas of things to share, please see this: http://www.washingtonmonthly.com/magazine/march_april_2012/features/obamas_top_50_accomplishments035755.php?page=all and this: http://www.addictinginfo.org/2013/02/15/a-long-list-of-president-obamas-accomplishments-with-citations/
If we Democrats who are active on social media, commit to daily sharing of positives, we may just be a decisive factor in the November election. In any case, sharing positives can't hurt. Please check out the #POTUSPositive hashtag if you are on twitter and add it to any of your tweets that relay positive information about our president. Thanks for all you do to Get Out The Vote and help Democrats.
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/
https://www.facebook.com/ProgressiveDemocratsMovingForwardNotBack
http://blogs.wsj.com/washwire/2014/09/22/do-presidential-approval-ratings-really-matter-in-midterm-elections/
The disapproval ratings of the US Congress, however, may have an impact on the midterm election outcomes, suggests an article from FiveThirtyEight.com . Harry Enten's June 18th article, "Congress' Low Approval Rating is Hurting Republicans", says that voters feelings about Republican control of Congress may very well affect how they vote in the midterm election. http://fivethirtyeight.com/datalab/congresss-low-approval-rating-is-hurting-republicans/ Remember that this article was written before Congress recessed for a FIVE week vacation in August, returned to work for EIGHT days, and then recessed until after the midterm election. The Sept. 8 release of Gallop poll has Congress at their lowest approval rating in history! 14% Gallop's own analysis suggested that voters will be voting Democratic this fall. http://www.miamiherald.com/incoming/article1991336.html
So, don't give up. Keep posting POSITIVE messages about our President and his achievements. If you need ideas of things to share, please see this: http://www.washingtonmonthly.com/magazine/march_april_2012/features/obamas_top_50_accomplishments035755.php?page=all and this: http://www.addictinginfo.org/2013/02/15/a-long-list-of-president-obamas-accomplishments-with-citations/
If we Democrats who are active on social media, commit to daily sharing of positives, we may just be a decisive factor in the November election. In any case, sharing positives can't hurt. Please check out the #POTUSPositive hashtag if you are on twitter and add it to any of your tweets that relay positive information about our president. Thanks for all you do to Get Out The Vote and help Democrats.
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/
https://www.facebook.com/ProgressiveDemocratsMovingForwardNotBack
Thursday, September 25, 2014
Talk is Cheap
The United Nations passed a resolution condemning terrorism. President Obama said that words spoken and words on paper won't stop these groups. Actions are the only thing that will work to stop them. America wants to work with the nations of the world to address the problems of the world. President Obama is hoping to create a vision for world leaders. As chair of the summit, President Obama cited Ban Ki Moon's "Missile's kill terrorists but only good governance kills terrorism."
That's the truth the world leaders need to address. If you missed it, here is the President's address: http://www.whitehouse.gov/blog/2014/09/24/choosing-hope-president-obama-s-address-united-nations
"US President Barack Obama on Wednesday led the UN Security Council in unanimously approving a binding resolution on stemming the flow of foreign jihadists to Iraq and Syria.
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/
https://www.facebook.com/ProgressiveDemocratsMovingForwardNotBack
"US President Barack Obama on Wednesday led the UN Security Council in unanimously approving a binding resolution on stemming the flow of foreign jihadists to Iraq and Syria.
The resolution requires all countries to adopt laws that would make it a serious crime for their nationals to join jihadist groups such as Islamic State and Al-Nusra Front." http://news.yahoo.com/un-security-council-passes-binding-resolution-jihadists-191829842.html
President Obama made history today as the first US President to chair the UN Security Council Summit TWICE! I don't know about you, but, I am very proud that I supported him and that he is our President. That's a #POTUSPositive we can all tweet about!
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/
https://www.facebook.com/ProgressiveDemocratsMovingForwardNotBack
Wednesday, September 24, 2014
The GOP Lies About ACA Just Don't Hold Up
Almost everyday there is new information released that shows the GOP "facts" about the Affordable Care Act (ACA) to be complete falsehoods. Just last week, an administration official, Marilyn Tavenner, announced that 7.3 Million enrollee's in ACA had paid premiums. That means that more than 90% of the 8 Million enrolles in ACA had PAID for it!
Speaker Boehner questioned how many enrolled in ACA had actually paid premiums. Do you think he will now tell his followers the truth? Do you think the Right Wing media will tell it? One thing we can count on is that media will be silent on any good news related to the Affordable Care Act. http://talkingpointsmemo.com/dc/obamacare-trutherism-out-to-pasture
If you want truth about ACA, where do you go? Here is one site: http://obamacarefacts.com/affordable-care-act-facts.php Here is the HHS website: http://www.hhs.gov/healthcare/facts/timeline/
Did you know there are helpers called Healthcare Navigators? They provide in-person assistance for people who are trying to enroll or decide upon a plan: http://www.cms.gov/CCIIO/Programs-and-Initiatives/Health-Insurance-Marketplaces/assistance.html
Latest news: http://www.vox.com/2014/9/24/6836181/in-conservative-media-obamacare-is-a-disaster-in-the-real-world-it-s
The bottom line is that there are resources available to anyone who wants to learn and who has an openness to factual information.
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/
Speaker Boehner questioned how many enrolled in ACA had actually paid premiums. Do you think he will now tell his followers the truth? Do you think the Right Wing media will tell it? One thing we can count on is that media will be silent on any good news related to the Affordable Care Act. http://talkingpointsmemo.com/dc/obamacare-trutherism-out-to-pasture
If you want truth about ACA, where do you go? Here is one site: http://obamacarefacts.com/affordable-care-act-facts.php Here is the HHS website: http://www.hhs.gov/healthcare/facts/timeline/
Did you know there are helpers called Healthcare Navigators? They provide in-person assistance for people who are trying to enroll or decide upon a plan: http://www.cms.gov/CCIIO/Programs-and-Initiatives/Health-Insurance-Marketplaces/assistance.html
Latest news: http://www.vox.com/2014/9/24/6836181/in-conservative-media-obamacare-is-a-disaster-in-the-real-world-it-s
The bottom line is that there are resources available to anyone who wants to learn and who has an openness to factual information.
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/
Tuesday, September 23, 2014
What is Citizens United?
What is Citizens United (CU)? We've all heard that term and vaguely know that it has something to go with money and speech. Right? First of all, Citizens United is a non-profit group that is dedicated to promoting conservative issues. On the main page it says, "Dedicated to Restoring Our Government to Citizens' Control" http://www.citizensunited.org/ It is strictly a Republican organization with a purpose to promote Republican candidates and values. According to the website it is the Citizens United Foundation (CUF) that is the affiliate that " is a 501(c)3 tax-exempt non-profit dedicated to informing the American people about public policy issues which relate to traditional American values: strong national defense, Constitutionally limited government, free market economics, belief in God and Judeo-Christian values, and the recognition of the family as the basic social unit of our society. " Therefore, they claim the CUF does not involve itself in any political activities. This is how they use our tax laws to further their political goals.
This group successfully sued the Federal Election Commission (FEC) in 2008 and won in a landmark decision at the US Supreme Court. The SCOTUS ruled that the Federal government cannot limit "corporations - or, for that matter, unions, associations or individuals - from spending money to influence the outcome of elections. The ruling led to the creation of super PACs." http://uspolitics.about.com/od/firstamendment/a/Citizens-United.htm We already covered that topic in a previous post. http://pageposts1123.blogspot.com/2014/08/money-and-politics-and-super-pacs.html?spref=tw
So how did it get to the point that this group sued the FEC? One of the affiliates of CU called the Citizens United Productions (CUP) produced a film entitled, "Hillary: The Movie" and the FEC ruled that it represented electioneering communications and that it was prohibited under Federal Law, specifically the bipartisan McCain-Feingold Campaign Reform Act of 2002. After their appeal of the decision was turned away by the Federal court, CU appealed the decision to the US Supreme Court, which ruled 5-4 in favor of CU. For more detail on the case, see: http://uspolitics.about.com/od/firstamendment/a/Citizens-United.htm
Just to illustrate how ludicrous the whole Super Pac situation has become thanks to the CU ruling, Jon Stewert and Stehpen Colbert taped a segment that has become a classic: http://thedailyshow.cc.com/videos/3pwzi5/colbert-super-pac---not-coordinating-with-stephen-colbert
But the good news it that Democrats can also use this ruling to set up their own CU type groups and they have. Because money has become speech, we must all know who is funding our candidates. That is why a group like Open Secrets is so vital to an informed electorate. We must make the effort to find out.
Other relevant links include: https://movetoamend.org/ and https://www.opensecrets.org/ and http://www.citizensunitedagainstcitizensunited.org/
Pat Taylor Fuller is an Editor for Progressive Democrats - Moving Forward, Not Back, and she has a blogspot named Pat's Commentaryhttp://pageposts1123.blogspot.com/
This group successfully sued the Federal Election Commission (FEC) in 2008 and won in a landmark decision at the US Supreme Court. The SCOTUS ruled that the Federal government cannot limit "corporations - or, for that matter, unions, associations or individuals - from spending money to influence the outcome of elections. The ruling led to the creation of super PACs." http://uspolitics.about.com/od/firstamendment/a/Citizens-United.htm We already covered that topic in a previous post. http://pageposts1123.blogspot.com/2014/08/money-and-politics-and-super-pacs.html?spref=tw
So how did it get to the point that this group sued the FEC? One of the affiliates of CU called the Citizens United Productions (CUP) produced a film entitled, "Hillary: The Movie" and the FEC ruled that it represented electioneering communications and that it was prohibited under Federal Law, specifically the bipartisan McCain-Feingold Campaign Reform Act of 2002. After their appeal of the decision was turned away by the Federal court, CU appealed the decision to the US Supreme Court, which ruled 5-4 in favor of CU. For more detail on the case, see: http://uspolitics.about.com/od/firstamendment/a/Citizens-United.htm
Just to illustrate how ludicrous the whole Super Pac situation has become thanks to the CU ruling, Jon Stewert and Stehpen Colbert taped a segment that has become a classic: http://thedailyshow.cc.com/videos/3pwzi5/colbert-super-pac---not-coordinating-with-stephen-colbert
But the good news it that Democrats can also use this ruling to set up their own CU type groups and they have. Because money has become speech, we must all know who is funding our candidates. That is why a group like Open Secrets is so vital to an informed electorate. We must make the effort to find out.
Other relevant links include: https://movetoamend.org/ and https://www.opensecrets.org/ and http://www.citizensunitedagainstcitizensunited.org/
Pat Taylor Fuller is an Editor for Progressive Democrats - Moving Forward, Not Back, and she has a blogspot named Pat's Commentaryhttp://pageposts1123.blogspot.com/
Monday, September 22, 2014
Tomorrow is National Voter Registration Day
Tomorrow is National Voter Registration Day. Are you registered? Are you sure? What about your family and friends? Hundreds of events are being held across the country on Tuesday, September 23. This link has a directory of events: http://www.nationalvoterregistrationday.org/events
"In 2008, 6 million citizens didn't vote because they missed a registration deadline or didn't know how to register." http://nationalvoterregistrationday.org/about Now, we want to make sure no one is left out.
"National Voter Registration Day has been made possible in part by a working group of organizations providing coordination and support. These organizations include, Asian Pacific American Labor Alliance Education Fund, Bus Federation Civic Fund, Fair Elections Legal Network, League of Women Voters, Nonprofit VOTE, Rock the Vote, and Voto Latino."
It is encouraging to know that over 2000 groups in all 50 states have united to make this happen. Please click on the link and find an event in your area. http://nationalvoterregistrationday.org/events
Also, if you aren't registered, please click on this link to do it: http://nationalvoterregistrationday.org/register-to-vote
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/
https://www.facebook.com/ProgressiveDemocratsMovingForwardNotBack
"In 2008, 6 million citizens didn't vote because they missed a registration deadline or didn't know how to register." http://nationalvoterregistrationday.org/about Now, we want to make sure no one is left out.
"National Voter Registration Day has been made possible in part by a working group of organizations providing coordination and support. These organizations include, Asian Pacific American Labor Alliance Education Fund, Bus Federation Civic Fund, Fair Elections Legal Network, League of Women Voters, Nonprofit VOTE, Rock the Vote, and Voto Latino."
It is encouraging to know that over 2000 groups in all 50 states have united to make this happen. Please click on the link and find an event in your area. http://nationalvoterregistrationday.org/events
Also, if you aren't registered, please click on this link to do it: http://nationalvoterregistrationday.org/register-to-vote
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/
https://www.facebook.com/ProgressiveDemocratsMovingForwardNotBack
Saturday, September 20, 2014
Congress is On Vacation Again!!!!
What does it mean when our Congress goes on recess? After just 8 days in session this month, Congress decided to go home until after the midterm elections. Basically, when Congress is in recess, business has been put on hold! Is this the time for Congress to do that? Let's see: we've just gone to war against ISIS, we still need to act on immigration, need to act on so many things BUT >>> we'd better wait until after the November 4th Midterm election. That way, we won't make anybody mad so they'll vote us out. Well, that is the dumbest thing I've ever heard. What a bunch of cowards! You know that if you call your representative to complain about the inaction of this Congress, they will sympathize with you but tell you they can't do anything about it. What a bunch of hooey! I agree with murphthesurf, this Congress is REPREHENSIBLE!
http://www.dailykos.com/story/2014/09/18/1330797/-With-so-much-to-do-CONGRESS-LEAVES-DC-until-after-the-midterms-REPREHENSIBLE#
Pat Taylor Fuller is an Editor for Progressive Democrats - Moving Forward, Not Back, and she has a blogspot named Pat's Commentaryhttp://pageposts1123.blogspot.com/
https://www.facebook.com/ProgressiveDemocratsMovingForwardNotBack
http://www.dailykos.com/story/2014/09/18/1330797/-With-so-much-to-do-CONGRESS-LEAVES-DC-until-after-the-midterms-REPREHENSIBLE#
Pat Taylor Fuller is an Editor for Progressive Democrats - Moving Forward, Not Back, and she has a blogspot named Pat's Commentaryhttp://pageposts1123.blogspot.com/
https://www.facebook.com/ProgressiveDemocratsMovingForwardNotBack
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)