As Speaker of House during the 1990s, Newt Gingrich and the Republican Party were instrumental in killing the Glass-Steagall Act, which separated investment banks and traditional lending banks. The combining of these banks in the wake of the repeal of that regulation led to the economic collapse in 2008. In an interview on ABC with Jake Tapper, Gingrich admitted that deregulating the banking industry was a mistake. Here is the exchange between the two.
Don’t get me wrong– there is a real benefit to keeping these wackjobs in the game. The longer they’re out there campaigning, facing the media and flubbing things up in debates, the more voters are exposed to just how crazy the Republican party has become. For whatever reason, there’s this feeling by many on the right that the nuttier a candidate is, the better.
“I will back up American diplomacy with a very real and very credible military option,” wrote the former Massachusetts governor. He quoted a Latin phrase and said the Iranian regime would understand: “If you want peace, prepare for war.” The Romney campaign’s foreign policy team is stacked with hawks that led the charge for the war with Iraq and have been pushing to launch one against Iran. One adviser has even advocated for a controversial Iranian anti-regime exile group that’s on the State Department’s list of terror groups.
Does anyone from the republican Party have any sense? Any class? Is the more stupid, angry and indignant a candidate is an asset to their constituents? The world is definitely seeing who they are.
Herman Cain didn’t even need Rick Perry’s gaffe to take attention off him: the crowd at Wednesday’s GOP debate in Michigan was firmly in his corner, booing when the moderator asked him if, in the wake of sexual-harassment allegations, he had the character to be president. Cain then attacked the “unfounded accusations” and “character assassination.” The crowd booed again when the moderators asked Mitt Romney if, as a former CEO, he’d have fired Herman Cain over the charges. Republican voters apparently agree with the debate crowd: another Rasmussen poll of Florida shows Cain leading Romney, 30 to 24.
Let the GOP run Cain as their candidate against Obama.
I suspect that is what the Democrats would love to see happen. But I also suspect the estalishment GOP does not want Cain.
I think what we are witnessing is the battle for the soul of the Grand Old Party.
But I have to wonder – what if the sexual harassment allegations were against Obama – THEN would be these Republicans think it is a valid question and go after Obama with guns blazing.
Me thinks they would be the first in line with loaded guns.
But since it is their boy under the scrutiny lights – IOKIYAR
I honestly can’t tell whether it is or isn’t an ‘official’ site. It doesn’t matter any longer. The man and his supporters have made fools of themselves.
An entry at that link titled, “Who is Sharon Bialek?” denigrates her. It’s sad. It further reduces my respect for anyone who is unable to make their case on its merits without behaving in the same manner they are complaining about. If the accusations aren’t true and you’re complaining that his character shouldn’t be attacked what sense does it make to respond in kind? Should we then be forewarned that Cain’s tactics would be to lower himself to what he thinks is wrong, while his supporters ‘egg him on’?
There are people who can dish it out, there are people who can take it without any need of giving it back. There are people who maintain their dignity and composure. And then there is Cain and his supporters.
The republicans are showing the world they don’t respect women.
Approximately 50 UC police officers in riot helmet with visors approached the group of protesters at around 9:40 p.m. Wednesday night, prodding the students and activists who had formed a human chain with batons as the gathered crowd chanted “Stop beating students!” and “The whole world is watching!” At points the shoving between the two groups intensified with police pushing forward and wielding their batons to the outcry of the protesters.
This kind of stuff horrifies me! It is clear from the video that the students were linked arm in arm just standing still, not advancing toward the officers. Amazingly, once the batons started jabbing at the protestors, they maintained their positions as best they could and supported one another. The reality is there is nothing to be gained by ordering police to advance.
How do some of these police feel when they go home at night (or in the morning)? Do they excuse their own behavior by saying they were ordered to do it? If so, what kind of people do we have protecting us? Because punching people with sticks just doesn’t equate to “protecting” to me.
It’s the way that big Marine put it in another video. (paraphrased) ‘These are fellow Americans who are asking for a better life, for themselves and for you.’
“The Republican Party has totally abdicated its job in our democracy, which is to act as the guardian of fiscal discipline and responsibility. They’re on an anti-tax jihad — one that benefits the prosperous classes.” — Former Reagan budget director David Stockman, in an interview with Rolling Stone.
Veil of Secrecy at the Fed Lifted, Time for Change
By Bernie Sanders, Reader Supported News
s a result of the greed, recklessness, and illegal behavior on Wall Street, the American people have experienced the worst economic crisis since the Great Depression. Millions of Americans, through no fault of their own, have lost their jobs, homes, life savings, and ability to send their kids to college. Small businesses have been unable to get the credit they need to expand their businesses, and credit is still extremely tight. Wages as a share of national income are now at the lowest level since the Great Depression, and the number of Americans living in poverty is at an all-time high.
In just the last generation, the richest 1% almost quadrupled their incomes.
The average wealth of the 1% is 225 times bigger than the wealth of the typical household — the highest it’s ever been.
Three decades ago, CEOs made about 40 times as much as an average worker – now CEOs make almost 200 times as much as regular employees.
Last year, half of Americans earned less than $26,000 while CEOs at top 500 companies raked in an average of $11 million.
Over the past decade, earnings for middle-class Americans actually fell. In fact, working Americans’ wages are now a lower percentage of our economy than they’ve ever been.
The divide between the richest and the poorest is worse in America than it is in nearly all of Europe and Asia and much of Africa. It’s about as bad as in Rwanda and Serbia — and it’s bad for our economy.
The 1% is not an accident – it is the result of policies our government chose to pursue.
I am convinced that these current Conservative Republicans are incapable of feeling shame.
After all the displays of totally boorish and juvenile behavior from these folks – do you really think they are capable of feeling shame or embarrassment?
The motto of the GOP should be – We Protect and Serve the 1% – None other need apply.
A slew of multinational corporations, joined by their allies in Congress, have been pushing for the enactment of a tax repatriation holiday, which would allow companies that have stashed money overseas to bring it back to the U.S. at a tax rate far below the usual 35 percent corporate income tax rate. Sen. Johm McCain (R-AZ) and Kay Hagan (D-NC) have proposed a plan under which corporations could repatriate money at an 8.25 percent tax rate, which would be lowered to 5.25 percent if they use the money to create jobs.
The problem with this plan is that it’s already been tried, and it didn’t work. In 2004, corporations used the money they brought back to enrich executives and buy back stock, not for job creation. In fact, the corporations that benefited the most from the tax break cut tens of thousands of jobs in the subsequent years, and companies pushed huge amounts of money offshore in anticipation of a future holiday.
McCain is evidently well aware of the shoddy history of these holidays, because why else would he include a special, even lower rate for companies that use the money to create jobs? In fact, McCain said at a Reuters summit yesterday that he is fine with giving corporations this big tax break so that they can use it to buy yachts and jets:
In defense of legislation he is offering in Congress, McCain said his bill would try to ensure that profits brought into the country from abroad at a reduced tax rate would be devoted by corporations to investment and job creation.
“If you brought $1.5 trillion back to the United States of America, it’s bound to have some positive effect somewhere,” he said at the Reuters Washington Summit. “I don’t see how it would not. Even if they buy more yachts and … corporate jets and all that, it’s bound to have some effect.”
Isn’t this the same thing as giving amnesty to illegal immigrants?
Think about it – corporations knowingly put their profits off shore to avoid paying US taxes and now they want to bring the money back at a lower tax rate.
And the reasoning for this is because all this money could have a positive effect on our economy.
So what is the difference between this plan to help corporations and giving amnesty to illegal immigrants who have been in the US for years?
I keep hearing Republicans saying that we cannot continue to reward bad behavior – which is why they want all illegals to be deported.
But yet these same people want to reward these corporations that hid their profits from US taxes with a lower tax rate if they bring that money back?
And where is the promise that these corporations will use this money to hire Americans – which would be the most positive effect on our economy?
Looks like there will be a press conference of all Cain’s accusers sometime in the near future.
IIRC – I heard on some news show that Herman Cain left the National Restaurant Assocation 6 months early on his contract. I would like to know the timing of that early departure – if it coincides with the timing of the two women who were paid settlements – then I would like Mr. Cain to explain why he left his job early.
I know this will never happen because, after all, there are men (and their supporters) who think they can do what they want, to whom they want, and the way they want to do it to them and NO ONE is to dare to question them.
Sad to say, too many of those people also claim to be such godly moral holier-than-thou church people (notice I did not say Christians).
One of my conservative friends wondered why all these accusations only come from the time he was at the National Restaurant Association. Posed that as making them questionable. My thought was that his escapades were exposed, maybe his wife wised up to his behavior and he was issued an ultimatum to shape up or ship out.
Or maybe this is the only time period any formal complaints were filed and settlements paid?
Seriously, before the 90’s was sexual harassment even considered a problem in the workplace by the majority rule?
I remember my first job was in the mid 70’s and the mere thought of any woman filing a complaint against any man in the workplace was unheard of – let alone actually carried out.
Here is an interesting take on Gloria Cain (Herman’s wife) and her cancellation of her interview on Fox News last week.
I found it interesting that Gloria Cain is described as a devoted churchgoer. For some reason, that sticks out in my mind. Maybe Herman’s wife is one of those women who truly believes that God has given men the right to do as they please?
There are alot of churchgoers that believe that way – and they tend to be Fundamental in their religious beliefs.
Didn’t the show “Mad Men” win awards? It was a sitcom but I couldn’t even watch it because it brought back too many vivid memories of what it was like. And, women all know the republicans want to keep it exactly like it was then! They don’t have any respect for women and will preach to you about a woman’s ‘place.’
“Like most women, I currently live in a society where violence, harassment and scary shit can break out at any moment, just because I told some random asshole “no” without bothering to be nice about it. Doing that is so dangerous that most women don’t dare; after a few scary incidents, they learn to make up excuses, to smile, to be sweet and welcoming, to act as if every single random asshole on the street is a precious new friend that they would just LOVE to stand outside of the Chipotle and chat with FOR HOURS, if only cruel fate had not intervened. That’s what it’s actually like, being a woman: Playing nice with every random asshole, because this random asshole might be the one who hurts you. And then, if he hurts you anyway, they’ll tell you that you led him on.”
— Tiger Beatdown
You know, I would have more respect for Herman Cain if he would simply come out and say – yes, I did act inappropriately back in the late 90’s and I was a total jerk and these women are telling the truth.
I am a Christian and I believe people can change their behavior. But Herman Cain’s insistence that he – and only he – is telling the truth. And then to attack these women the way Cain supporters have is totally suspicious and uncalled for – IMHO.
But is Herman Cain’s sexual allegations any worse than what is going on Penn State currently? Wow – these allegations are of a man molesting young boys and then there was a cover up by fellow colleagues.
Now where have we heard this plot before?
Sad to say, I think we live in a society that some people think that any sexual assault (and I think harassment is an assault) is okay – if it’s being done by the ‘right’ people.
Now, this is interesting. Can you imagine the uses of this technology? Maybe someone could wear an invisibility cloak and follow Herman Cain around for a week or two? LMAO
But they just pushed that urgent reaffirmation of the motto ‘In God We Trust’ legislation last week.
Funny thing, I never knew the motto was under attack – did you?
BTW – I wonder if these buffoons realized that they forgot to insert THEIR particular God – in that motto?
I suspect the ones that pushed through this urgently-needed legislation are all God-fearing Christians and maybe they just assumed everyone knows they mean the Christian God?
But – the motto says ‘God’ and that could mean alot of different gods – couldn’t it?
What is so absurd is this Republican idea that the 1% do everything for the 99% – when it is the other way around – the 99% pay for everything the 1% enjoy.
Take away the 99% – especially the working class – and that 1% would have no taxpayer money to gouge – would they?
I wonder if these 1% buffoons have even thought about that? The Working Class ATM is about to run out of money.
BREAKING: Today, anti-worker Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker and Brownback cancelled a planned fundraiser in Wichita out of fears of massive protests. This is a big win for working families in Kansas and our friends at the Wichita / Hutch Labor Federation.
Wow – $15,000 for one ticket to hear from Conservative Repubicans pat themselves on the back as to how wonderful they are?
I wonder if these Republicans realize that $15,000 is alot of money to working class Americans?
$15,000 may be chump change for these GOP political chumps who have been leeches on the taxpayer dime for years – but $15,000 is alot of money for regular working class people.
While surfing the Internet, I happened to find this article. It is about Chanute Kansas. It’s rather lengthy article but about halfway through, it tells about how the family – Conservative Republicans – who brought up this environmental issue were treated by their fellow townsfolk.
Now this family is not some newcomers to the town – this family has very deep roots in Chanute. And to read where they received threatening letters because they dare to speak up about an issue they are concerned about – just goes to show how our current political system is toxic.
After reading this – maybe we can now somehow understand how the Cain supporters can carry on the way they do? I’m not saying it is right – I’m saying that in politics – people can get downright ugly and mean.
Our first corporate transfer back in 1983 was to Chanute Kansas. We still have some good friends in that town. I had one neighbor that worked at this cement plant. I wonder how he and his family are doing.
Clearly from this article, the one thing that is missing is how can the two sides come together to make a better world for everyone?
Then, it is scary to think the current Republicans want to abolish the EPA and get rid of all regulations on businesses.
In what universe does this approach make any sense?
It isn’t just the young women, it’s the smart ones — whether educated or not. We’re not doing the bidding of men, we’re walking alongside them as equals.
I worded it that way because there are – to my dismay – some women who tend to be of the older generation that see nothing wrong with men like Herman Cain. These tend to be in the Fundamental churches.
But , hopefully, the younger and any age of women with at least one working brain cell and a backbone will stand up to this type of neanderthal thinking and tell Herman Cain and his supporters where they can shove their neanderthal back under that rock.
For example – my grandmother was a woman who blamed the victim of rape for dressing too provocative and she ‘tempted’ the man into raping her.
Hmm, sounds alot like that Adam and Eve story where Eve (the evil woman she is) tempted Adam into sinning against God. I guess Adam did not have a brain with which to think for himself and resist the temptation. LOL
I think this is where this attitude that men are blameless whenever a woman is involved. Women have been used as scapegoats for a long, long time. This is nothing new.
We women must not allow ourselves to be put in that position any longer! We have given tacit permission unless we speak out, unless we make it very clear. Yes, some will call us bitches or worse. while men who behave in similar ways will be praised for being aggressive. It will only be those who fear us that will do less than accept us. Those men and women who don’t want anything to change, who don’t want to think of women as equals probably never will. But we must expect them to understand and accept that those attitudes are unacceptable. We can accomplish the understanding that we’re in this together with respect and dignity. We don’t have to leave kindness, niceness or sweetness behind to make sure we’re treated as equal humans. We will expect to be treated as an equal and teach those we interact with that anything less won’t be tolerated.
But, I graduated from a Fundamental Baptist College where women had to take a mandated course in Marriage and Courtship. The main thing I learned in that class was to wear big pretty bow in my hair for my man when he came home every night.
I’ve NEVER worn a hair bow – and when I see these timid and meek women wearing those big hair bows, I just shudder. Then I take another look to see if they were fellow classmates from that damn class. LMAO
Didn’t we just have a video of some Baptist preacher on this blog spewing this same kind of nonsense crap? He proudly boasted that men were superior by God’s design.
Is it really a stretch of the imagination to think these same people would be supporters of a presidential candidate who claims he is the victim of sexual harassment allegations even though two of the women were paid settlements and they cannot legally tell their story due to confidentiality restraint?
Whether the accusations are true or not he lowered himself and gave back in kind what he says was done to him unfairly. That’s the way children behave — immature and vindictive. Not acceptable! That kind of behavior makes him unqualified for public office.
What is with our society? Like I said yesterday, I am not a college sports fan but when I read stuff like this and watch the news about Penn State – I have to wonder – WTH is going on.
I hadn’t paid much attention until last night. I was watching news shows for reactions to the latest republican debate and heard some of the details of the charges at Penn State.
The first right and good thing the Board of Trustees has done over these long years was when they fired Paterno. No one who knew of those atrocities and didn’t do everything in their power to make sure they stopped should be kept employed.
It all sounds too familiar – doesn’t it? Look at the Catholic Church and the way they handled similar behavior.
I wonder if it has to do with all the money flowing into the sports programs or is it just men who think they can do what they want and get away with it?
I don’t understand this…..
I wonder about the issue of money because it seems like whenever there is alot of money involved – it always corrupts whatever it touches.
Kinda like too much money in our political system – huh?
As I’ve heard more and more details about the child abuse that went on and was covered up at Penn State, I’ve been taken back to some of the more horrendous days of my Grand Jury experience. We were asked to bring more than one indictment of child abuse. The testimony, the photos, the explanations of the charges were explicit and beyond anything my sheltered world had imagined. Gruesome memories.
I feel I should share this interaction I had with a young man (in his early 20’s (?) at Menards last night.
My husband and I were buying Christmas lights – the solar type – because we are trying to change our Christmas house decorating this year.
Anyway – this young man was excited because we were buying the solar type lights and some of the ‘retro’ Christmas decorations. This young man was talking about how he had good memories of his grandmother’s Christmas decorations and that he was excited to see Christmas decorations going back to the ‘old stuff’ that he remembers.
We chose solar lights because we do not have an outlet in the front part of the house but the solar lights are more eco-friendly, so that is a good thing.
I was telling this young man about my grandmother’s Christmas decorations and how great they were and how my father made some of our favorite decorations and those are the ones that the kids remember the most.
That is when this young man made this statement – I think our world has become a disposable society and that nothng is valued anymore. He then went on to say – and that includes the way society views people as just warm bodies that can be replaced with the next warm body waiting in line.
I think this young man hit the nail on the head last night. I sensed this young man’s generation has grown up with this longing for quality-built products and to be treated like a valued person.
And isn’t that really what the OWS protesters are fighting for – the 99% are people also and we ALL need to be treated with respect in our society.
Talking to this young man gave me hope for my country’s future. Too many times we hear how the younger generation are lazy and don’t care about anything or anyone.
Maybe some are that that way – but I met a young man last night that was definitely not lazy and he cared deeply about what he is seeing around him.
I took my youngest to the DMV yesterday to renew her permit, and as we waited, a young AA man in an ROTC uniform and his dad answered the number called. After going through all the info for his license, he was asked if he wanted to register to vote, but seemed a bit confused. His dad must have asked the clerk how it was possible. The clerk answered that he would be 18 before the next election in 2012 and asked again if the young man wanted to register. He shrugged and said, sure, he’d register. Then the clerk asked if he wanted to declare a political party preference, and he looked at his dad and said, “Democrat?” His dad gave a small nod and the young man turned to the woman and repeated it. I had to control myself not to jump up, give a fist pump and yell, “Yeah! One more for our side!” LOL
Ah, men. What a bunch. Always so mistreated. My, it’s a wonder that we can even get out of bed in the morning.
Well, the truth is that a real man doesn’t tolerate sexual harassment and abuses of power. As I have stated many times before, a real man respects a woman, and women in general, as being an equal that deserves respect. Nothing less.
I came of age in the Sixties, so I missed out on the ‘fun’ of previous decades. Despite the attitudes that were common in my a-parents generation, I managed to reach adulthood without the misogynistic perceptions that they embraced. I also didn’t accept the other prejudices and attitudes that they preached.
As I have tried to explain to CON MEN and women that defend Herbie Cain, regardless of your slandering of the women that filed complaints and have come forward, it is obvious from his reaction that Mr. Cain is guilty as charged, and there is no excusing that behavior.
Being the incredibly handsome, sophisticated and suave man that I am, having the attentions of beautiful women directed at me is a daily occurrence. Even at that, I know the limits and the limits known to every man in America.
Herman Cain knew the limits, but felt that his power and prestige allowed him to ignore those limits.
And that is not the type of man we need in the Oval Office.
Thank you biker…….you are one of many the strong men that actually knows how to treat and respect women.
I suspect there are many more men just like you – but, unfortunately, the best men are not embroiled in the headlines.
We need less headlines about the neanderthals and more headlines about the every day men and women who strive to make our country better by workign together.
You know the sad part – I did not even watch the debate and only saw the video clip of Perry’s gaffe this morning.
While he was searching for that third agency name – I screamed at the television it was the Energy Dept.
Geesh, anyone within hearing distance of the GOP talking points know that the Republicans HATE the Energy Dept (and every other agency that has those regulations).
And to make things worse – Perry comes from Texas that is known for oil…..
Yesterday on ABC, Newt Gingrich admitted that repealing the Glass Steagall Act, the law that separates lending banks and investment banks, was a mistake. Gingrich also stated that the regulatory legislation should be reinstated. Now, a presently serving Republican congressman agreed that Glass-Steagall should be reinstated as well.
During a conservative radio show with Bill Bennett last week, GOP Rep. Paul Ryan agreed with a caller that the big banks should once again be regulated by Glass-Steagall. Yes, THAT Paul Ryan. You know, the Paul Ryan who heads the House Budget Committee and wants to end Medicare? That’s him. Here is the exchange.
I heard this snippit of Newt Gingrich’s response to this debate question and I have found a link with a transcript of this part of Newt’s performance last night.
I have one question for Mr. Newt – who in the 99% are calling for corporations to NOT make a profit? I’ve not heard one single person advocate that position.
What I hear the OWS protesters and the 99% they represent saying is this – our economic system is too one-sided wherein the 1% reap ALL the benefits while the 99% are left with dwindling paychecks and fewer jobs due to the corprorations getting the tax benefits and/or government subsidies from the economic system that their bought-n-paid-for politicians are setting up.
As for who is paying for the park – Mr. Newt – let’s just say that taxpayers are paying for that park and if your sacred cow corporations are not paying any taxes adn they are considered ‘persons’ under the new SCOTUS ruling – then these corporations are not taxpayers – are they??
The REpublicans try to paint these corporations as some poorly paid people who are just barely hanging on – but meanwhile these same corporations are making record-breaking profits.
Mr. Newt – once again – you’ve missed the point of the entire situation. But I’m sure there is a pretty little bauble in the window at Tiffanys that the little Mrs. would just to show off for all the 1% .
We’ve all heard the maxim, “Money is the root of all evil,” but I wondered if I could find it’s origin. Looks like it’s been an accepted fact for a very long time.
wiki says —
First Epistle to Timothy in the New Testament (1 Timothy 6:10), which contains the phrase, “The love of money is a root of all kinds of evil” (Often misquoted as ‘Money is the root of all evil’)
Greed, one of the Seven Deadly Sins, the excessive love of money and other possessions
Radix malorum est cupiditas, Latin for “Greed is the root of all evil”
I’ve known several in my lifetime and have found most very nice. There are a few that take the title to a new low, but I guess that’s pretty much the way the world works.
I heard Bialek say that Cain did remember her when they met recently – was it at this Tea Party event?
What’s ironic is the fact this accuser is one of the Conservatives……
Wow – but yet it is the liberal media’s fault, or was it the Democratic machine ruled by Gloria Alred (?), for daring to bring all this stuff up.
Cain and his supporters need a serious wake up call – but, hey, look at the Penn St scandal and the way those students rioted over that coach’s firing.
Emotions run high and rational thinking goes out the window…
It’s great when we can disagree in a civilized way, but it’s getting pretty hard to avoid the conclusion that the phrase “right-wing logic,” as delivered by the GOP and mimicked by Mitt Romney, has become the mother of all oxymorons. They tell us corporations are people. But people? Not so much. The Right used that argument in yesterday’s elections, but it’s starting to look like voters in swing states and the heart of Red America have had enough.
They love to preach the “corporate personhood” principle. IBM, Goldman Sachs, Halliburton: They’re people! Why, they can even “speak”! Sure, they may be limited to the crude vocabulary of millions and billions, but you gotta admit: Come election time, they’re fluent in it.
These corporations are endowed with freedom of speech, say Mitt and Friends, but employees of the same corporations aren’t – especially when that speech involves forming a union. Follow the logic and the conclusion is inescapable: the Right believes that the company is a person but the people who work for it aren’t.
Got that?
We’re told that corporations have privacy rights, too. They have so much right to privacy, in fact, that when they throw millions of dollars of “speech” into an election we’re not allowed to know who’s speaking! But the Right says people with jobs don’t have privacy rights. Employers can spy on them, say conservatives, even when they’re at home using Facebook or Twitter.
Some on the Right, including its new recruit Mitt Romney, have also argued that fertilized eggs should have all the rights that accrue to a fully-formed human being. But a full-grown person who happens to be female doesn’t have the rights of personhood when it comes to determining how her own body is used.
Many question whether this movement can really make a difference. The truth is that it is already changing everything. Here’s how.
1. It names the source of the crisis.The problems of the 99% are caused by Wall Street greed, corrupt banks, and a corporate take-over of the political system.
2. It provides a clear vision of the world we want.We can create a world that works for everyone, not just the wealthiest 1%.
3. It sets a new standard for public debate.Those advocating policies and proposals must now demonstrate that their ideas will benefit the 99%. Serving only the 1% is no longer sufficient.
4. It presents a new narrative.The solution is no longer to starve government, but to free society and government from corporate dominance.
5. It creates a big tent.We, the 99%, are made up of people of all ages, races, occupations, and political beliefs, and we are learning to work together with respect.
6. It offers everyone a chance to create change.No one is in charge. Anyone can get involved and make things happen.
7. It is a movement, not a list of demands.The call for transformative structural change, not temporary fixes and single-issue reforms, is the movement’s sustaining power.
8. It combines the local and the global.People are setting their own local agendas, tactics, and aims. But we also share solidarity, communication, and vision at the global level.
9. It offers an ethic and practice of deep democracy and community.Patient decision-making translates into wisdom and common com-mitment when every voice is heard. Occupy sites are communities where anyone can discuss grievances, hopes, and dreams in an atmosphere of mutual support.
10. We have reclaimed our power.Instead of looking to politicians and leaders to bring about change, we can see now that the power rests with us. Instead of being victims of the forces upending our lives, we are claiming our sovereign right to remake the world.
A new report looks at how thousands of U.S.-born children are being sent to foster care when their non-U.S. citizen parents are detained or deported.
The Applied Research Center investigation, “Shattered Families: The Perilous Intersection of Immigration Enforcement and the Child Welfare System,” finds there are at least 5,100 children currently living in foster care — who are prevented from uniting with their detained or deported parents. If nothing changes, researchers found some 15,000 more children may end up in foster care in the next five years.
I want to live in a country that is compassionate, fair and serves the needs of its people. A country that sees our global neighbors as brothers not as unwelcome guests. I don’t want walls separating me. Fear breeds fear. Kindness and compassion instills trust. I long for rational discourse, where facts are appreciated and twisting the truth is discouraged.
The damage inflicted on kids and families who are just trying to build a better life, is disturbing. Isn’t that what our ancestors all came here to accomplish?
PrairiePopulistsAndProgressives.net 
Newt is sounding more and more reasonable. Probably one of the many reasons he won’t be the republican nominee.
Newt Gingrich Calls For Reinstating Glass-Steagall, Admits Deregulating The Banking Industry Was A Mistake
As Speaker of House during the 1990s, Newt Gingrich and the Republican Party were instrumental in killing the Glass-Steagall Act, which separated investment banks and traditional lending banks. The combining of these banks in the wake of the repeal of that regulation led to the economic collapse in 2008. In an interview on ABC with Jake Tapper, Gingrich admitted that deregulating the banking industry was a mistake. Here is the exchange between the two.
The Three GOP Candidates Who Should Bow Out Now
Bachmann, Cain and that other guy.
Don’t get me wrong– there is a real benefit to keeping these wackjobs in the game. The longer they’re out there campaigning, facing the media and flubbing things up in debates, the more voters are exposed to just how crazy the Republican party has become. For whatever reason, there’s this feeling by many on the right that the nuttier a candidate is, the better.
http://www.republicansforobama.org/node/9749
“I will back up American diplomacy with a very real and very credible military option,” wrote the former Massachusetts governor. He quoted a Latin phrase and said the Iranian regime would understand: “If you want peace, prepare for war.” The Romney campaign’s foreign policy team is stacked with hawks that led the charge for the war with Iraq and have been pushing to launch one against Iran. One adviser has even advocated for a controversial Iranian anti-regime exile group that’s on the State Department’s list of terror groups.
Does anyone from the republican Party have any sense? Any class? Is the more stupid, angry and indignant a candidate is an asset to their constituents? The world is definitely seeing who they are.
Herman Cain didn’t even need Rick Perry’s gaffe to take attention off him: the crowd at Wednesday’s GOP debate in Michigan was firmly in his corner, booing when the moderator asked him if, in the wake of sexual-harassment allegations, he had the character to be president. Cain then attacked the “unfounded accusations” and “character assassination.” The crowd booed again when the moderators asked Mitt Romney if, as a former CEO, he’d have fired Herman Cain over the charges. Republican voters apparently agree with the debate crowd: another Rasmussen poll of Florida shows Cain leading Romney, 30 to 24.
http://thehill.com/blogs/ballot-box/gop-presidential-primary/192773-cain-debate-audience-reject-questions-about-sexual-harassment-
Let the GOP run Cain as their candidate against Obama.
I suspect that is what the Democrats would love to see happen. But I also suspect the estalishment GOP does not want Cain.
I think what we are witnessing is the battle for the soul of the Grand Old Party.
But I have to wonder – what if the sexual harassment allegations were against Obama – THEN would be these Republicans think it is a valid question and go after Obama with guns blazing.
Me thinks they would be the first in line with loaded guns.
But since it is their boy under the scrutiny lights – IOKIYAR
I concur.
I read at a site that says —
CainTruth.com is paid for by Friends of Herman Cain, Inc., the only official campaign of Herman Cain for President.
http://www.caintruth.com/2011/11/who-is-sharon-bialek/
I honestly can’t tell whether it is or isn’t an ‘official’ site. It doesn’t matter any longer. The man and his supporters have made fools of themselves.
An entry at that link titled, “Who is Sharon Bialek?” denigrates her. It’s sad. It further reduces my respect for anyone who is unable to make their case on its merits without behaving in the same manner they are complaining about. If the accusations aren’t true and you’re complaining that his character shouldn’t be attacked what sense does it make to respond in kind? Should we then be forewarned that Cain’s tactics would be to lower himself to what he thinks is wrong, while his supporters ‘egg him on’?
There are people who can dish it out, there are people who can take it without any need of giving it back. There are people who maintain their dignity and composure. And then there is Cain and his supporters.
The republicans are showing the world they don’t respect women.
http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ktvu.com%2Fnews%2Fnews%2Fuc-berkeley-students-plan-set-occupy-camp%2FnFZMJ%2F&h=vAQEFfVNHAQGazs7tuqItosNUlFgjRJM_QjbR3UfnzFKBrg
Approximately 50 UC police officers in riot helmet with visors approached the group of protesters at around 9:40 p.m. Wednesday night, prodding the students and activists who had formed a human chain with batons as the gathered crowd chanted “Stop beating students!” and “The whole world is watching!” At points the shoving between the two groups intensified with police pushing forward and wielding their batons to the outcry of the protesters.
This kind of stuff horrifies me! It is clear from the video that the students were linked arm in arm just standing still, not advancing toward the officers. Amazingly, once the batons started jabbing at the protestors, they maintained their positions as best they could and supported one another. The reality is there is nothing to be gained by ordering police to advance.
How do some of these police feel when they go home at night (or in the morning)? Do they excuse their own behavior by saying they were ordered to do it? If so, what kind of people do we have protecting us? Because punching people with sticks just doesn’t equate to “protecting” to me.
It’s the way that big Marine put it in another video. (paraphrased) ‘These are fellow Americans who are asking for a better life, for themselves and for you.’
“The Republican Party has totally abdicated its job in our democracy, which is to act as the guardian of fiscal discipline and responsibility. They’re on an anti-tax jihad — one that benefits the prosperous classes.” — Former Reagan budget director David Stockman, in an interview with Rolling Stone.
I wonder if the 99% of Republicans who protect and serve the 1% really believe they will personally become the 1% at some time in the future?
Is this really what is driving this mindset or are these folks just lemmings being led by the Pied Piper off the cliff?
These are scary times, very scary times.
They’re lemmings!
Great article, fnord! Even if it wasn’t written by Matt. LOL
Veil of Secrecy at the Fed Lifted, Time for Change
By Bernie Sanders, Reader Supported News
Meanwhile, when small-business owners were being turned down for loans at private banks and millions of Americans were being kicked out of their homes, the Federal Reserve provided the largest taxpayer-financed bailout in the history of the world to Wall Street and too-big-to-fail institutions, with virtually no strings attached.
http://readersupportednews.org/opinion2/279-82/8310-the-veil-of-secrecy-at-the-fed-has-been-lifted-now-its-time-for-change
Who Are The 1 Percent?
Know the Facts
In just the last generation, the richest 1% almost quadrupled their incomes.
The average wealth of the 1% is 225 times bigger than the wealth of the typical household — the highest it’s ever been.
Three decades ago, CEOs made about 40 times as much as an average worker – now CEOs make almost 200 times as much as regular employees.
Last year, half of Americans earned less than $26,000 while CEOs at top 500 companies raked in an average of $11 million.
Over the past decade, earnings for middle-class Americans actually fell. In fact, working Americans’ wages are now a lower percentage of our economy than they’ve ever been.
The divide between the richest and the poorest is worse in America than it is in nearly all of Europe and Asia and much of Africa. It’s about as bad as in Rwanda and Serbia — and it’s bad for our economy.
The 1% is not an accident – it is the result of policies our government chose to pursue.
http://www.bravenewfoundation.org/whoarethe1percent/
I am convinced that these current Conservative Republicans are incapable of feeling shame.
After all the displays of totally boorish and juvenile behavior from these folks – do you really think they are capable of feeling shame or embarrassment?
The motto of the GOP should be – We Protect and Serve the 1% – None other need apply.
A slew of multinational corporations, joined by their allies in Congress, have been pushing for the enactment of a tax repatriation holiday, which would allow companies that have stashed money overseas to bring it back to the U.S. at a tax rate far below the usual 35 percent corporate income tax rate. Sen. Johm McCain (R-AZ) and Kay Hagan (D-NC) have proposed a plan under which corporations could repatriate money at an 8.25 percent tax rate, which would be lowered to 5.25 percent if they use the money to create jobs.
The problem with this plan is that it’s already been tried, and it didn’t work. In 2004, corporations used the money they brought back to enrich executives and buy back stock, not for job creation. In fact, the corporations that benefited the most from the tax break cut tens of thousands of jobs in the subsequent years, and companies pushed huge amounts of money offshore in anticipation of a future holiday.
McCain is evidently well aware of the shoddy history of these holidays, because why else would he include a special, even lower rate for companies that use the money to create jobs? In fact, McCain said at a Reuters summit yesterday that he is fine with giving corporations this big tax break so that they can use it to buy yachts and jets:
In defense of legislation he is offering in Congress, McCain said his bill would try to ensure that profits brought into the country from abroad at a reduced tax rate would be devoted by corporations to investment and job creation.
“If you brought $1.5 trillion back to the United States of America, it’s bound to have some positive effect somewhere,” he said at the Reuters Washington Summit. “I don’t see how it would not. Even if they buy more yachts and … corporate jets and all that, it’s bound to have some effect.”
Isn’t this the same thing as giving amnesty to illegal immigrants?
Think about it – corporations knowingly put their profits off shore to avoid paying US taxes and now they want to bring the money back at a lower tax rate.
And the reasoning for this is because all this money could have a positive effect on our economy.
So what is the difference between this plan to help corporations and giving amnesty to illegal immigrants who have been in the US for years?
I keep hearing Republicans saying that we cannot continue to reward bad behavior – which is why they want all illegals to be deported.
But yet these same people want to reward these corporations that hid their profits from US taxes with a lower tax rate if they bring that money back?
And where is the promise that these corporations will use this money to hire Americans – which would be the most positive effect on our economy?
Looks like there will be a press conference of all Cain’s accusers sometime in the near future.
IIRC – I heard on some news show that Herman Cain left the National Restaurant Assocation 6 months early on his contract. I would like to know the timing of that early departure – if it coincides with the timing of the two women who were paid settlements – then I would like Mr. Cain to explain why he left his job early.
I know this will never happen because, after all, there are men (and their supporters) who think they can do what they want, to whom they want, and the way they want to do it to them and NO ONE is to dare to question them.
Sad to say, too many of those people also claim to be such godly moral holier-than-thou church people (notice I did not say Christians).
http://www.denverpost.com/nationworld/ci_19303178?source=rss
One of my conservative friends wondered why all these accusations only come from the time he was at the National Restaurant Association. Posed that as making them questionable. My thought was that his escapades were exposed, maybe his wife wised up to his behavior and he was issued an ultimatum to shape up or ship out.
Or maybe this is the only time period any formal complaints were filed and settlements paid?
Seriously, before the 90’s was sexual harassment even considered a problem in the workplace by the majority rule?
I remember my first job was in the mid 70’s and the mere thought of any woman filing a complaint against any man in the workplace was unheard of – let alone actually carried out.
Here is an interesting take on Gloria Cain (Herman’s wife) and her cancellation of her interview on Fox News last week.
I found it interesting that Gloria Cain is described as a devoted churchgoer. For some reason, that sticks out in my mind. Maybe Herman’s wife is one of those women who truly believes that God has given men the right to do as they please?
There are alot of churchgoers that believe that way – and they tend to be Fundamental in their religious beliefs.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/11/05/herman-cain-wife-gloria-cain_n_1077723.html
Didn’t the show “Mad Men” win awards? It was a sitcom but I couldn’t even watch it because it brought back too many vivid memories of what it was like. And, women all know the republicans want to keep it exactly like it was then! They don’t have any respect for women and will preach to you about a woman’s ‘place.’
“Like most women, I currently live in a society where violence, harassment and scary shit can break out at any moment, just because I told some random asshole “no” without bothering to be nice about it. Doing that is so dangerous that most women don’t dare; after a few scary incidents, they learn to make up excuses, to smile, to be sweet and welcoming, to act as if every single random asshole on the street is a precious new friend that they would just LOVE to stand outside of the Chipotle and chat with FOR HOURS, if only cruel fate had not intervened. That’s what it’s actually like, being a woman: Playing nice with every random asshole, because this random asshole might be the one who hurts you. And then, if he hurts you anyway, they’ll tell you that you led him on.”
— Tiger Beatdown
You know, I would have more respect for Herman Cain if he would simply come out and say – yes, I did act inappropriately back in the late 90’s and I was a total jerk and these women are telling the truth.
I am a Christian and I believe people can change their behavior. But Herman Cain’s insistence that he – and only he – is telling the truth. And then to attack these women the way Cain supporters have is totally suspicious and uncalled for – IMHO.
But is Herman Cain’s sexual allegations any worse than what is going on Penn State currently? Wow – these allegations are of a man molesting young boys and then there was a cover up by fellow colleagues.
Now where have we heard this plot before?
Sad to say, I think we live in a society that some people think that any sexual assault (and I think harassment is an assault) is okay – if it’s being done by the ‘right’ people.
And that is the problem – IMHO
Now, this is interesting. Can you imagine the uses of this technology? Maybe someone could wear an invisibility cloak and follow Herman Cain around for a week or two? LMAO
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/45226591/
Get a What? A Job? 70% of Occupy Wall Streeters are Employed, Compared to 56% of Tea Partiers
I suspect the Tea Partiers are more of the retired population – is that why the 56% ?
So if they are more retired people – then they are using the Socialist govenrment health care of which they are out to abolish – is that the deal?
The old coots won’t last forever. The republican party may simply die off. Don’t worry about old age – it doesn’t last that long.
Boehner, where are the jobs?
It’s been 310 days now since Boehner and his bunch have been in charge of the House. Not a single jobs bill even introduced!
But they just pushed that urgent reaffirmation of the motto ‘In God We Trust’ legislation last week.
Funny thing, I never knew the motto was under attack – did you?
BTW – I wonder if these buffoons realized that they forgot to insert THEIR particular God – in that motto?
I suspect the ones that pushed through this urgently-needed legislation are all God-fearing Christians and maybe they just assumed everyone knows they mean the Christian God?
But – the motto says ‘God’ and that could mean alot of different gods – couldn’t it?
What is so absurd is this Republican idea that the 1% do everything for the 99% – when it is the other way around – the 99% pay for everything the 1% enjoy.
Take away the 99% – especially the working class – and that 1% would have no taxpayer money to gouge – would they?
I wonder if these 1% buffoons have even thought about that? The Working Class ATM is about to run out of money.
BREAKING: Today, anti-worker Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker and Brownback cancelled a planned fundraiser in Wichita out of fears of massive protests. This is a big win for working families in Kansas and our friends at the Wichita / Hutch Labor Federation.
http://www.whlaborfed.org/updates/victory-fearing-mass-protest-governor-walker-cancels-wichita-visit
Wow – $15,000 for one ticket to hear from Conservative Repubicans pat themselves on the back as to how wonderful they are?
I wonder if these Republicans realize that $15,000 is alot of money to working class Americans?
$15,000 may be chump change for these GOP political chumps who have been leeches on the taxpayer dime for years – but $15,000 is alot of money for regular working class people.
Well if he is afraid of coming to Wichita, Kansas because there might be protests, where in the world can he go?
Hopefully, going home will be the only option for Gov Scott Walker come January 2012 if he is voted out of office.
Great news! But I’m disappointed, I worked all morning figuring out just what message I wanted to put on my protest sign!
EVERY $ DONATED TO WALKER-BROWNBACK IS A $ SPENT DESTROYING DEMOCRACY
While surfing the Internet, I happened to find this article. It is about Chanute Kansas. It’s rather lengthy article but about halfway through, it tells about how the family – Conservative Republicans – who brought up this environmental issue were treated by their fellow townsfolk.
Now this family is not some newcomers to the town – this family has very deep roots in Chanute. And to read where they received threatening letters because they dare to speak up about an issue they are concerned about – just goes to show how our current political system is toxic.
After reading this – maybe we can now somehow understand how the Cain supporters can carry on the way they do? I’m not saying it is right – I’m saying that in politics – people can get downright ugly and mean.
http://www.iwatchnews.org/2011/11/10/7338/town-divided-over-major-employers-permission-pollute-air
Our first corporate transfer back in 1983 was to Chanute Kansas. We still have some good friends in that town. I had one neighbor that worked at this cement plant. I wonder how he and his family are doing.
Clearly from this article, the one thing that is missing is how can the two sides come together to make a better world for everyone?
Then, it is scary to think the current Republicans want to abolish the EPA and get rid of all regulations on businesses.
In what universe does this approach make any sense?
President Obama is on message with the American women.
Can you imagine a presidential campaign between Herman Cain and Barack Obama?
I suspect the younger, educated women will go running towards Obama even more if Herman is the GOP nominee.
Oh, please dear GOP God, nominate Herman – it would be a landslide for Obama.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/11/10/obama-women-gop-congress_n_1086211.html
It isn’t just the young women, it’s the smart ones — whether educated or not. We’re not doing the bidding of men, we’re walking alongside them as equals.
I worded it that way because there are – to my dismay – some women who tend to be of the older generation that see nothing wrong with men like Herman Cain. These tend to be in the Fundamental churches.
But , hopefully, the younger and any age of women with at least one working brain cell and a backbone will stand up to this type of neanderthal thinking and tell Herman Cain and his supporters where they can shove their neanderthal back under that rock.
For example – my grandmother was a woman who blamed the victim of rape for dressing too provocative and she ‘tempted’ the man into raping her.
Hmm, sounds alot like that Adam and Eve story where Eve (the evil woman she is) tempted Adam into sinning against God. I guess Adam did not have a brain with which to think for himself and resist the temptation. LOL
I think this is where this attitude that men are blameless whenever a woman is involved. Women have been used as scapegoats for a long, long time. This is nothing new.
We women must not allow ourselves to be put in that position any longer! We have given tacit permission unless we speak out, unless we make it very clear. Yes, some will call us bitches or worse. while men who behave in similar ways will be praised for being aggressive. It will only be those who fear us that will do less than accept us. Those men and women who don’t want anything to change, who don’t want to think of women as equals probably never will. But we must expect them to understand and accept that those attitudes are unacceptable. We can accomplish the understanding that we’re in this together with respect and dignity. We don’t have to leave kindness, niceness or sweetness behind to make sure we’re treated as equal humans. We will expect to be treated as an equal and teach those we interact with that anything less won’t be tolerated.
I agree 100% fnord.
But, I graduated from a Fundamental Baptist College where women had to take a mandated course in Marriage and Courtship. The main thing I learned in that class was to wear big pretty bow in my hair for my man when he came home every night.
I’ve NEVER worn a hair bow – and when I see these timid and meek women wearing those big hair bows, I just shudder. Then I take another look to see if they were fellow classmates from that damn class. LMAO
BTW – I’ve been married to the same man for 35 years – and he was a Baptist preacher when I married him.
He never expected me to wear that hair bow.
So there are men who respect women and treat them as their equal.
It takes a stronger man to respect women as their equal than a neanderthal to try to prove he is macho by denigrating women.
Didn’t we just have a video of some Baptist preacher on this blog spewing this same kind of nonsense crap? He proudly boasted that men were superior by God’s design.
Is it really a stretch of the imagination to think these same people would be supporters of a presidential candidate who claims he is the victim of sexual harassment allegations even though two of the women were paid settlements and they cannot legally tell their story due to confidentiality restraint?
But, while these two women cannot speak publicly, Herman Cain can tell his version…
I’ve said from the beginning – let the two women speak publicly and then let the chips fall where they may.
Until that happens – there will always be a cloud hanging over Cain’s head – IMHO
Whether the accusations are true or not he lowered himself and gave back in kind what he says was done to him unfairly. That’s the way children behave — immature and vindictive. Not acceptable! That kind of behavior makes him unqualified for public office.
What is with our society? Like I said yesterday, I am not a college sports fan but when I read stuff like this and watch the news about Penn State – I have to wonder – WTH is going on.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/11/10/penn-state-scandal-rumors-sandusky-pimping_n_1086099.html
I hadn’t paid much attention until last night. I was watching news shows for reactions to the latest republican debate and heard some of the details of the charges at Penn State.
The first right and good thing the Board of Trustees has done over these long years was when they fired Paterno. No one who knew of those atrocities and didn’t do everything in their power to make sure they stopped should be kept employed.
It all sounds too familiar – doesn’t it? Look at the Catholic Church and the way they handled similar behavior.
I wonder if it has to do with all the money flowing into the sports programs or is it just men who think they can do what they want and get away with it?
I don’t understand this…..
I wonder about the issue of money because it seems like whenever there is alot of money involved – it always corrupts whatever it touches.
Kinda like too much money in our political system – huh?
As I’ve heard more and more details about the child abuse that went on and was covered up at Penn State, I’ve been taken back to some of the more horrendous days of my Grand Jury experience. We were asked to bring more than one indictment of child abuse. The testimony, the photos, the explanations of the charges were explicit and beyond anything my sheltered world had imagined. Gruesome memories.
I feel I should share this interaction I had with a young man (in his early 20’s (?) at Menards last night.
My husband and I were buying Christmas lights – the solar type – because we are trying to change our Christmas house decorating this year.
Anyway – this young man was excited because we were buying the solar type lights and some of the ‘retro’ Christmas decorations. This young man was talking about how he had good memories of his grandmother’s Christmas decorations and that he was excited to see Christmas decorations going back to the ‘old stuff’ that he remembers.
We chose solar lights because we do not have an outlet in the front part of the house but the solar lights are more eco-friendly, so that is a good thing.
I was telling this young man about my grandmother’s Christmas decorations and how great they were and how my father made some of our favorite decorations and those are the ones that the kids remember the most.
That is when this young man made this statement – I think our world has become a disposable society and that nothng is valued anymore. He then went on to say – and that includes the way society views people as just warm bodies that can be replaced with the next warm body waiting in line.
I think this young man hit the nail on the head last night. I sensed this young man’s generation has grown up with this longing for quality-built products and to be treated like a valued person.
And isn’t that really what the OWS protesters are fighting for – the 99% are people also and we ALL need to be treated with respect in our society.
Talking to this young man gave me hope for my country’s future. Too many times we hear how the younger generation are lazy and don’t care about anything or anyone.
Maybe some are that that way – but I met a young man last night that was definitely not lazy and he cared deeply about what he is seeing around him.
My hopes were raised last night……..
I’ve long been a fan of our youth and I’ve often been inspired by them. Thanks for sharing that story — makes me smile.
I took my youngest to the DMV yesterday to renew her permit, and as we waited, a young AA man in an ROTC uniform and his dad answered the number called. After going through all the info for his license, he was asked if he wanted to register to vote, but seemed a bit confused. His dad must have asked the clerk how it was possible. The clerk answered that he would be 18 before the next election in 2012 and asked again if the young man wanted to register. He shrugged and said, sure, he’d register. Then the clerk asked if he wanted to declare a political party preference, and he looked at his dad and said, “Democrat?” His dad gave a small nod and the young man turned to the woman and repeated it. I had to control myself not to jump up, give a fist pump and yell, “Yeah! One more for our side!” LOL
Ah, men. What a bunch. Always so mistreated. My, it’s a wonder that we can even get out of bed in the morning.
Well, the truth is that a real man doesn’t tolerate sexual harassment and abuses of power. As I have stated many times before, a real man respects a woman, and women in general, as being an equal that deserves respect. Nothing less.
I came of age in the Sixties, so I missed out on the ‘fun’ of previous decades. Despite the attitudes that were common in my a-parents generation, I managed to reach adulthood without the misogynistic perceptions that they embraced. I also didn’t accept the other prejudices and attitudes that they preached.
As I have tried to explain to CON MEN and women that defend Herbie Cain, regardless of your slandering of the women that filed complaints and have come forward, it is obvious from his reaction that Mr. Cain is guilty as charged, and there is no excusing that behavior.
Being the incredibly handsome, sophisticated and suave man that I am, having the attentions of beautiful women directed at me is a daily occurrence. Even at that, I know the limits and the limits known to every man in America.
Herman Cain knew the limits, but felt that his power and prestige allowed him to ignore those limits.
And that is not the type of man we need in the Oval Office.
That, and his “9-9-9 Plan” sucks.
I can’t make bar-b-q sauce as good as you can! In that, I admit being inferior to you. 🙂
I can’t paint rocks like you do – your painted rocks last longer than my BBQ sauce!
fnord – you paint rocks?
How cool…
Crazy, isn’t it!? You can find some pics of a few I’ve painted on my Facebook page. I have fun doing it.
Thank you biker…….you are one of many the strong men that actually knows how to treat and respect women.
I suspect there are many more men just like you – but, unfortunately, the best men are not embroiled in the headlines.
We need less headlines about the neanderthals and more headlines about the every day men and women who strive to make our country better by workign together.
Aw, biker, you know we love you. 🙂 Thanks for being one of the good guys.
Rick Perry – do you want to buy a vowel?
Ooops, Rickie did it again….
You know the sad part – I did not even watch the debate and only saw the video clip of Perry’s gaffe this morning.
While he was searching for that third agency name – I screamed at the television it was the Energy Dept.
Geesh, anyone within hearing distance of the GOP talking points know that the Republicans HATE the Energy Dept (and every other agency that has those regulations).
And to make things worse – Perry comes from Texas that is known for oil…..
Geesh, what a dipstick…
Finally, a Judge Stands up to Wall Street
Read more: http://www.rollingstone.com/politics/blogs/taibblog/finally-a-judge-stands-up-to-wall-street-20111110#ixzz1dKXUSrPg
I thank this judge, and I thank the Occupiers!
Paul Ryan Agrees With Reinstating Glass-Steagall
Yesterday on ABC, Newt Gingrich admitted that repealing the Glass Steagall Act, the law that separates lending banks and investment banks, was a mistake. Gingrich also stated that the regulatory legislation should be reinstated. Now, a presently serving Republican congressman agreed that Glass-Steagall should be reinstated as well.
During a conservative radio show with Bill Bennett last week, GOP Rep. Paul Ryan agreed with a caller that the big banks should once again be regulated by Glass-Steagall. Yes, THAT Paul Ryan. You know, the Paul Ryan who heads the House Budget Committee and wants to end Medicare? That’s him. Here is the exchange.
I heard this snippit of Newt Gingrich’s response to this debate question and I have found a link with a transcript of this part of Newt’s performance last night.
I have one question for Mr. Newt – who in the 99% are calling for corporations to NOT make a profit? I’ve not heard one single person advocate that position.
What I hear the OWS protesters and the 99% they represent saying is this – our economic system is too one-sided wherein the 1% reap ALL the benefits while the 99% are left with dwindling paychecks and fewer jobs due to the corprorations getting the tax benefits and/or government subsidies from the economic system that their bought-n-paid-for politicians are setting up.
As for who is paying for the park – Mr. Newt – let’s just say that taxpayers are paying for that park and if your sacred cow corporations are not paying any taxes adn they are considered ‘persons’ under the new SCOTUS ruling – then these corporations are not taxpayers – are they??
The REpublicans try to paint these corporations as some poorly paid people who are just barely hanging on – but meanwhile these same corporations are making record-breaking profits.
Mr. Newt – once again – you’ve missed the point of the entire situation. But I’m sure there is a pretty little bauble in the window at Tiffanys that the little Mrs. would just to show off for all the 1% .
http://nation.foxnews.com/newt-gingrich/2011/11/09/gingrich-takes-shot-ows-whos-gonna-pay-park-youre-occupying-if-there-are-no-businesses-making-profit
We’ve all heard the maxim, “Money is the root of all evil,” but I wondered if I could find it’s origin. Looks like it’s been an accepted fact for a very long time.
wiki says —
First Epistle to Timothy in the New Testament (1 Timothy 6:10), which contains the phrase, “The love of money is a root of all kinds of evil” (Often misquoted as ‘Money is the root of all evil’)
Greed, one of the Seven Deadly Sins, the excessive love of money and other possessions
Radix malorum est cupiditas, Latin for “Greed is the root of all evil”
Hey, I wouldn’t mind being evil for just a little while. 😉
Happy Marine Corps birthday to all current and former Marines.
Oooorah, guys.
I’ve known several in my lifetime and have found most very nice. There are a few that take the title to a new low, but I guess that’s pretty much the way the world works.
Happy B-Day to the Jarheads! 😉
Never met her, never saw her before, doesn’t know her…
I don’t care if this is the same woman or not, look at where his hand is, especially his thumb. That is NOT a hand around the waist. That’s sleazy.
Is there a woman alive who hasn’t been around a man who did this? Yeah, downright sleazy.
Will tells me this:
The woman in the pic is Amy Jacobson. The event is the Tea Party meet in Chicago where Bialek encountered Cain.
I heard Bialek say that Cain did remember her when they met recently – was it at this Tea Party event?
What’s ironic is the fact this accuser is one of the Conservatives……
Wow – but yet it is the liberal media’s fault, or was it the Democratic machine ruled by Gloria Alred (?), for daring to bring all this stuff up.
Cain and his supporters need a serious wake up call – but, hey, look at the Penn St scandal and the way those students rioted over that coach’s firing.
Emotions run high and rational thinking goes out the window…
It’s great when we can disagree in a civilized way, but it’s getting pretty hard to avoid the conclusion that the phrase “right-wing logic,” as delivered by the GOP and mimicked by Mitt Romney, has become the mother of all oxymorons. They tell us corporations are people. But people? Not so much. The Right used that argument in yesterday’s elections, but it’s starting to look like voters in swing states and the heart of Red America have had enough.
They love to preach the “corporate personhood” principle. IBM, Goldman Sachs, Halliburton: They’re people! Why, they can even “speak”! Sure, they may be limited to the crude vocabulary of millions and billions, but you gotta admit: Come election time, they’re fluent in it.
These corporations are endowed with freedom of speech, say Mitt and Friends, but employees of the same corporations aren’t – especially when that speech involves forming a union. Follow the logic and the conclusion is inescapable: the Right believes that the company is a person but the people who work for it aren’t.
Got that?
We’re told that corporations have privacy rights, too. They have so much right to privacy, in fact, that when they throw millions of dollars of “speech” into an election we’re not allowed to know who’s speaking! But the Right says people with jobs don’t have privacy rights. Employers can spy on them, say conservatives, even when they’re at home using Facebook or Twitter.
Some on the Right, including its new recruit Mitt Romney, have also argued that fertilized eggs should have all the rights that accrue to a fully-formed human being. But a full-grown person who happens to be female doesn’t have the rights of personhood when it comes to determining how her own body is used.
continue reading —
http://www.nationofchange.org/sorry-gop-looks-america-s-bllsht-detecter-just-went-1320940773
10 WAYS THE OCCUPY MOVEMENT CHANGES EVERYTHING
Many question whether this movement can really make a difference. The truth is that it is already changing everything. Here’s how.
1. It names the source of the crisis.The problems of the 99% are caused by Wall Street greed, corrupt banks, and a corporate take-over of the political system.
2. It provides a clear vision of the world we want.We can create a world that works for everyone, not just the wealthiest 1%.
3. It sets a new standard for public debate.Those advocating policies and proposals must now demonstrate that their ideas will benefit the 99%. Serving only the 1% is no longer sufficient.
4. It presents a new narrative.The solution is no longer to starve government, but to free society and government from corporate dominance.
5. It creates a big tent.We, the 99%, are made up of people of all ages, races, occupations, and political beliefs, and we are learning to work together with respect.
6. It offers everyone a chance to create change.No one is in charge. Anyone can get involved and make things happen.
7. It is a movement, not a list of demands.The call for transformative structural change, not temporary fixes and single-issue reforms, is the movement’s sustaining power.
8. It combines the local and the global.People are setting their own local agendas, tactics, and aims. But we also share solidarity, communication, and vision at the global level.
9. It offers an ethic and practice of deep democracy and community.Patient decision-making translates into wisdom and common com-mitment when every voice is heard. Occupy sites are communities where anyone can discuss grievances, hopes, and dreams in an atmosphere of mutual support.
10. We have reclaimed our power.Instead of looking to politicians and leaders to bring about change, we can see now that the power rests with us. Instead of being victims of the forces upending our lives, we are claiming our sovereign right to remake the world.
http://www.nationofchange.org/10-ways-occupy-movement-changes-everything-1320943628
A new report looks at how thousands of U.S.-born children are being sent to foster care when their non-U.S. citizen parents are detained or deported.
The Applied Research Center investigation, “Shattered Families: The Perilous Intersection of Immigration Enforcement and the Child Welfare System,” finds there are at least 5,100 children currently living in foster care — who are prevented from uniting with their detained or deported parents. If nothing changes, researchers found some 15,000 more children may end up in foster care in the next five years.
I want to live in a country that is compassionate, fair and serves the needs of its people. A country that sees our global neighbors as brothers not as unwelcome guests. I don’t want walls separating me. Fear breeds fear. Kindness and compassion instills trust. I long for rational discourse, where facts are appreciated and twisting the truth is discouraged.
The damage inflicted on kids and families who are just trying to build a better life, is disturbing. Isn’t that what our ancestors all came here to accomplish?