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The Power of All
Commented Dec 03, 2009 at 20:21:59 in Technology
“Kudos to Ms. Harris and CDT for raising awareness of this critical issue.
People need to understand that "privacy is power," and on the Internet, they have none.
To see what you can do right now to increase your privacy as a Windows user, download the free how-to guide "How to Secure Windows and Your Privacy" from the Privacy Rights Clearinghouse -- www.privacyrights.org/sites/default/files/pdf/PcPrivacySecurity.pdf”
People need to understand that "privacy is power," and on the Internet, they have none.
To see what you can do right now to increase your privacy as a Windows user, download the free how-to guide "How to Secure Windows and Your Privacy" from the Privacy Rights Clearinghouse -- www.privacyrights.org/sites/default/files/pdf/PcPrivacySecurity.pdf”
The Rehabilitation of Eliot Spitzer
Commented Dec 03, 2009 at 20:08:27 in New York
“The article asks "Why did feds give Spitzer a pass?" when the real question is "did the Feds engage in selective prosecution?"
Along with the cases of Ted Stevens and Don Siegelman, and the unprecedented midterm dismissal of seven United States Attorneys, there is real cause to investigate whether the Bush administration used prosecutions for solely political purposes.
Recall that DOJ initially talked of bringing charges against Gov. Spitzer on the obscure and almost-never-prosecuted charge of "structuring" -- trying to hide the purpose of financial payments. DOJ immediately dropped the idea when Spitzer resigned as Governor.
Scratch one promising Democratic crusader against the Bush administration's business interests.”
Along with the cases of Ted Stevens and Don Siegelman, and the unprecedented midterm dismissal of seven United States Attorneys, there is real cause to investigate whether the Bush administration used prosecutions for solely political purposes.
Recall that DOJ initially talked of bringing charges against Gov. Spitzer on the obscure and almost-never-prosecuted charge of "structuring" -- trying to hide the purpose of financial payments. DOJ immediately dropped the idea when Spitzer resigned as Governor.
Scratch one promising Democratic crusader against the Bush administration's business interests.”
Boyaca replied on Dec 04, 2009 at 09:20:04
“As I said inm my previous post.. He went after the crooks who had connections in high places. With the help of the Federal Government they took him down with a vengeance. What is truly amazing given the past year or so is how the American People come to view Elliot Spitzer as a bad man but the guys who were responsible for the biggest mess in American financial History get a free pass right into the White House? Go figure.”
Tom Friedman: 'After 9/11, I Overreacted' (VIDEO)
Commented Dec 03, 2009 at 00:23:39 in Media
“Mr. Friedman has written insightfully on globalism and economic change. But his foreign policy record is abysmal.
See his NY Times column of just last week explaining what he calls "The Narrative," the warped view of the US preeminent in the Arab/Muslim world. He's quite correct about the defects of The Narrative -- except that his article counters with an "American Narrative" every bit as selective and culture-bound as the narrative he opposes.
Friedman's American Narrative states that "[for] ... two decades in which U.S. foreign policy has been largely dedicated to rescuing Muslims or trying to help free them from tyranny..."
Square that with the 100,000 to 1,000,000 Iraqi deaths directly attributable to our actions since 2003, as well as others who have died due to our continuing military actions in Somalia, Pakistan, Afghanistan, and even Iran. Mr. Friedman's Narrative doesn't even mention these deaths. What an incredible insult.
Until we fashion an American Narrative that understands why we were attacked on 9/11, and why nationalists oppose us in Iraq and Afghanistan today, our military engagement will perpetuate violence rather than prevent it.”
See his NY Times column of just last week explaining what he calls "The Narrative," the warped view of the US preeminent in the Arab/Muslim world. He's quite correct about the defects of The Narrative -- except that his article counters with an "American Narrative" every bit as selective and culture-bound as the narrative he opposes.
Friedman's American Narrative states that "[for] ... two decades in which U.S. foreign policy has been largely dedicated to rescuing Muslims or trying to help free them from tyranny..."
Square that with the 100,000 to 1,000,000 Iraqi deaths directly attributable to our actions since 2003, as well as others who have died due to our continuing military actions in Somalia, Pakistan, Afghanistan, and even Iran. Mr. Friedman's Narrative doesn't even mention these deaths. What an incredible insult.
Until we fashion an American Narrative that understands why we were attacked on 9/11, and why nationalists oppose us in Iraq and Afghanistan today, our military engagement will perpetuate violence rather than prevent it.”
jajenkins replied on Dec 03, 2009 at 11:50:10
“Great Post.
And which two decades anyway?
Would that be the same two decades through which the authoritarian regimes of Yemen, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Morocco, Algeria, Egypt, Libya (Qaddafi was our SOB before he went rogue), and Iraq (ditto for Saddam Hussein) were funded and supported by the US?
And we wonder why the 'Arab street' isn't falling over itself in gratitude.”
And which two decades anyway?
Would that be the same two decades through which the authoritarian regimes of Yemen, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Morocco, Algeria, Egypt, Libya (Qaddafi was our SOB before he went rogue), and Iraq (ditto for Saddam Hussein) were funded and supported by the US?
And we wonder why the 'Arab street' isn't falling over itself in gratitude.”
The Economic Reality That No One Wants to Talk About
Commented Dec 02, 2009 at 23:40:02 in Business
“I don't see how Dr. Reich's prescription for increasing American productivity can cover the multiple cost differential between US and overseas labor.
"Free trade" as embodied in current American law gives many foreign companies the exact same access to US markets as American companies. But foreign companies often face fewer regulations, less onerous pollution and carbon emission requirements, lower health care costs, and fewer labor protections, not to mention lower labor costs.
As long as we continue our "free trade" policies, jobs will continue their flight from this country. "Comparative advantage" promotes higher global productivity, but it says little about which nations get the jobs and who gets the additional wealth it generates. Am I wrong, Dr. Reich?”
"Free trade" as embodied in current American law gives many foreign companies the exact same access to US markets as American companies. But foreign companies often face fewer regulations, less onerous pollution and carbon emission requirements, lower health care costs, and fewer labor protections, not to mention lower labor costs.
As long as we continue our "free trade" policies, jobs will continue their flight from this country. "Comparative advantage" promotes higher global productivity, but it says little about which nations get the jobs and who gets the additional wealth it generates. Am I wrong, Dr. Reich?”
HMDMSR replied on Dec 03, 2009 at 00:19:03
“Your comment about "Free trade" is right on. Your prior comment about American productivity is interesting, because even under more favorable circumstances, productivity increases imply job losses--here in the US, in the EU, BRIC, or wherever.”
America Without a Middle Class
Commented Dec 02, 2009 at 23:09:41 in Business
“Hurrah for Dr. Warren, who treats readers like adults -- showing them key statistical trends in her graphs. We need more factual arguments like hers and less emotionalism in our national discourse.
The CFPA is long overdue. Imagine if it had been around over the past decade, stopping subprime mortgages. We wouldn't have had the credit crisis of fall 2008 and its kneecapping of our economy.
Opposition to the CFPA and tighter regulation of the financial sector is fierce. Perhaps the most telling of President Obama's choices will be whether he stands up to this opposition and insists upon meaningful regulation, or whether he backs down and -- yet again -- compromises with reactionaries.”
The CFPA is long overdue. Imagine if it had been around over the past decade, stopping subprime mortgages. We wouldn't have had the credit crisis of fall 2008 and its kneecapping of our economy.
Opposition to the CFPA and tighter regulation of the financial sector is fierce. Perhaps the most telling of President Obama's choices will be whether he stands up to this opposition and insists upon meaningful regulation, or whether he backs down and -- yet again -- compromises with reactionaries.”
How Tom Daschle Lobbies In Secret: Influence Laundering
Commented Nov 25, 2009 at 12:05:21 in Business
“Corruption is seeking into the core of our political class, with high-status former leaders like Daschle and Gephardt now promoting special interests over the public interest.
We faced a financial crisis, and leaders like Bernanke, Paulson, Summers, Geithner, Bush and Obama solved it by favoring the financial sector over the public interest.
Every republic faces these problems to some degree. But it appears we have turned a corner and walked down the blind alley we used to regard as the special province of "third-world nations."
Liberal or conservative, it doesn't matter. We must somehow address this corruption at the core of our republic. If the Obama era proves anything so far, it is that the power of the special interests has increased to the point where they threaten our ability to fashion solutions in the national interest.”
We faced a financial crisis, and leaders like Bernanke, Paulson, Summers, Geithner, Bush and Obama solved it by favoring the financial sector over the public interest.
Every republic faces these problems to some degree. But it appears we have turned a corner and walked down the blind alley we used to regard as the special province of "third-world nations."
Liberal or conservative, it doesn't matter. We must somehow address this corruption at the core of our republic. If the Obama era proves anything so far, it is that the power of the special interests has increased to the point where they threaten our ability to fashion solutions in the national interest.”
In The Fed We Trust? Will The Senate Reward The Architect Of The Wall Street Bailout?
Commented Nov 25, 2009 at 11:44:43 in Business
“"It is simply inconceivable that in a constitutional Republic, the Federal Reserve can commit trillions of dollars to private companies with no vote of the Congress, no review, no audit, no accountability."
This is the key fact. We had a financial crisis, and we reacted to it by rewarding those who caused it at public expense. If we saw this happening in any other country we would call this by its true name: looting.
Where are the truth-tellers? We are descending politically to the level of a third world nation.
Our former "leaders" like Daschle and Gephardt now promote special interests over the public interest, while it is left to a few insightful, courageous people like Mr. Borosage and former Sen. Hart to expose our corruption as best they can.”
This is the key fact. We had a financial crisis, and we reacted to it by rewarding those who caused it at public expense. If we saw this happening in any other country we would call this by its true name: looting.
Where are the truth-tellers? We are descending politically to the level of a third world nation.
Our former "leaders" like Daschle and Gephardt now promote special interests over the public interest, while it is left to a few insightful, courageous people like Mr. Borosage and former Sen. Hart to expose our corruption as best they can.”
WritusMaximus replied on Nov 25, 2009 at 15:52:59
“Folks, your problem is that you still believe that you live in a democracy. In the corporatetocracy that you live in, all this makes sense. Gotta face the facts and let go the fantasy, however painful it is to let go.”
truthseeker7 replied on Nov 25, 2009 at 15:15:30
“where are the truth tellers?
Well, whether you agree with all of their ideas or not, when it comes to telling the truth about monetary policy in the country Ron Paul leads the way. Dennis Kucinich understands it, as did Henry Gonzalez (D-TX) in the 80's, JFK in the 60's, Louis McFadden in the 30's, Charles Lindbergh Sr in the 20's and the grand-daddy of all of our banking-savvy presidents - Andrew Jackson in the 1830s.
Getting rid of the Fed is a good idea as they are corrupt to the bone and are incapable of being saved. How exactly we replace them is the $64 trillion dollar question as at the root of all our evils is having a profit-driven society, in which the failings of mankind will always rise to manipulate.”
Well, whether you agree with all of their ideas or not, when it comes to telling the truth about monetary policy in the country Ron Paul leads the way. Dennis Kucinich understands it, as did Henry Gonzalez (D-TX) in the 80's, JFK in the 60's, Louis McFadden in the 30's, Charles Lindbergh Sr in the 20's and the grand-daddy of all of our banking-savvy presidents - Andrew Jackson in the 1830s.
Getting rid of the Fed is a good idea as they are corrupt to the bone and are incapable of being saved. How exactly we replace them is the $64 trillion dollar question as at the root of all our evils is having a profit-driven society, in which the failings of mankind will always rise to manipulate.”
MinasTirith replied on Nov 25, 2009 at 14:25:54
“Remember: The Fed is not a 'Federal' anything... It'sa private bank. It's no more 'Federal' than UPS, or Federal Express.
It's the Central Bank that we fought so hard for our independence from, when Britain tried to force us as a colony to use their Bank and pay their interest. The Fed is everything we worked for so many years, and lost so many lives to avoid.
Now, they just charge the government interest on every dollar. So we're instantly in debt (for the interest) to the Fed on every single dollar they print. A self perpetuating cycle.
It's a racket.”
It's the Central Bank that we fought so hard for our independence from, when Britain tried to force us as a colony to use their Bank and pay their interest. The Fed is everything we worked for so many years, and lost so many lives to avoid.
Now, they just charge the government interest on every dollar. So we're instantly in debt (for the interest) to the Fed on every single dollar they print. A self perpetuating cycle.
It's a racket.”
JSquercia replied on Nov 25, 2009 at 14:22:28
“Yes it both maddening and Sad to see people who were once liberals turn around and play for the other team .It makes one question whether there is anyone who has core values .”
Jane Andrews, Former Assistant To Sarah Ferguson, Duchess Of York, Escapes From Prison
Commented Nov 24, 2009 at 03:44:32 in World
“Why would they jail someone for life in a "low-security prison?" Not too smart. Maybe Labour figures all the spycams can keep track of her.”
Will The Unemployment Disaster Be Obama's Katrina?
Commented Nov 24, 2009 at 03:34:44 in Politics
“Thank you CaptainVideo for the pointer. Krugman is both easy-to-read and authoritative. I'll pursue this and hopefully learn a lot.”
Will The Unemployment Disaster Be Obama's Katrina?
Commented Nov 24, 2009 at 02:46:00 in Politics
“We've had about a dozen recessions since WWII, and all have self-corrected within 24 months or less. I don't know of any that was resolved by government stimulus. So I don't understand why so many here take it as a given that government stimulus is both necessary and will work.
Could someone please post a pointer to an article that tells about a recession our government has corrected with stimulus since WWII? (I'm sincerely asking, not arguing a point). Thank you.”
Could someone please post a pointer to an article that tells about a recession our government has corrected with stimulus since WWII? (I'm sincerely asking, not arguing a point). Thank you.”
justme5 replied on Nov 24, 2009 at 04:12:25
“Bush stimulus for recession after 9/11:
http://archives.cnn.com/2002/ALLPOLITICS/03/09/bush.stimulus/index.html
signed in feb. 2008 -- mostly in the form of tax rebates:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Economic_Stimulus_Act_of_2008”
http://archives.cnn.com/2002/ALLPOLITICS/03/09/bush.stimulus/index.html
signed in feb. 2008 -- mostly in the form of tax rebates:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Economic_Stimulus_Act_of_2008”
CaptainVideo replied on Nov 24, 2009 at 02:56:14
“Every recession since the end of WWII has been met with economic stimulus, monetary and/or fiscal, None of the recoveries were the result of being self correcting. I suggest you read Krugman and Wells' Macroeconomics text. It is a an introductory principles text and requires no previous knowledge of economics. It is very readable and includes extensive discussions of this issue.”
xlntcat replied on Nov 24, 2009 at 02:54:45
“The 10.8% unemployment in 1982 did self correct by not within 24 months. Now the financial crisis of the '80s was not economic contraction but run away inflation, but Arianna doomsday uninformed commentary is getting stale. So far she has been wrong across the board and I am beginning to believe she is just trying to hawk her book and undermine public confidence. Her motives appear quite self-serving and her economic reasoning seems vindictively superficial.”
Viper replied on Nov 24, 2009 at 02:53:59
“Bush and reagan said their tax cuts would stimulate the economy... were they lying?
They both also increased military and government spending/jobs and ran up huge debts.
I think anyone who thinks this is a normal recession is a few slices short of a full loaf and does not see the systemic nature or the underlying deindustrailization and that jobs coming back is getting slower each time. In 1980 we had trade surpluses not huge 30 years of growing trade deficits. Americans was funding almost 100% of our own debt. Not anymore and we made most of what we bought.. not anymore.''
Regards”
They both also increased military and government spending/jobs and ran up huge debts.
I think anyone who thinks this is a normal recession is a few slices short of a full loaf and does not see the systemic nature or the underlying deindustrailization and that jobs coming back is getting slower each time. In 1980 we had trade surpluses not huge 30 years of growing trade deficits. Americans was funding almost 100% of our own debt. Not anymore and we made most of what we bought.. not anymore.''
Regards”
adamNsteve replied on Nov 24, 2009 at 02:48:46
“".I don't know of any that was resolved by government stimulus."
Do yourself a favor and get a history book. Then read it.”
Do yourself a favor and get a history book. Then read it.”
We Need To Put Our Foot Down On Net Neutrality
Commented Nov 23, 2009 at 21:26:37 in Media
“Net Neutrality means that no company can restrict or limit access to what you view on the Internet.
The telecomms and ISPs argue that this restricts their ability to make profits -- but that is specious. WIth Net Neutrality they could still charge different rates based on how much use you make of your Internet connection. They just can't charge more or change service levels on the basis of the CONTENT you access.
Usage-based metering is fine -- content control and restriction is not.
If you don't understand what this means to your freedom, read about Green Dam Girl in China
绿坝·花季护航”
The telecomms and ISPs argue that this restricts their ability to make profits -- but that is specious. WIth Net Neutrality they could still charge different rates based on how much use you make of your Internet connection. They just can't charge more or change service levels on the basis of the CONTENT you access.
Usage-based metering is fine -- content control and restriction is not.
If you don't understand what this means to your freedom, read about Green Dam Girl in China
绿坝·花季护航”
Why is Obama Championing Bush's Financial Wrecking Crew?
Commented Nov 23, 2009 at 12:08:51 in Business
“Great article. One wonders why President Obama continues to take economic advice solely from the Wall St/Bush crowd when he could at least bring in a few qualified outsiders like Stiglitz and Krugman.
I fear the same thing is happening with Afghanistan. Obama is listening to the existing hyper interventionist establishment (Gates, Clinton, Holbrooke, the Pentagon) when he should be seeking outside advice (Zbig and others with innovative ideas). If we continue the build-up in Afghanistan it won't be a surprise.”
I fear the same thing is happening with Afghanistan. Obama is listening to the existing hyper interventionist establishment (Gates, Clinton, Holbrooke, the Pentagon) when he should be seeking outside advice (Zbig and others with innovative ideas). If we continue the build-up in Afghanistan it won't be a surprise.”
voltage356 replied on Nov 23, 2009 at 13:30:33
“Council of Foreign Affairs”
WeMustSpeakOut replied on Nov 23, 2009 at 13:30:06
“Obama is a figure-head, a puppet, and he does what he is told to do by the real powers. The real power lies within the international banking cartel behind the Fed and our horribly corrupt and criminal "intelligence" apparatus, primarily the CIA.”
Why Is Child Pornography on Your PC?
Commented Nov 20, 2009 at 07:00:48 in Technology
“Articles in the computer trade press have confirmed that innocent people are hurt in the manner this article proclaims.
This could be fixed by changing these presumptions ---
1. The courts tend to treat traced-back IP addresses as belonging to individuals. They don't -- not only because of router security breaches but also because several people may legitmately share a router. Furthermore, it's not hard to spoof an IP address. Courts should not take IP addresses as proof of individual behavior.
2. Why are routers shipped with security turned off by default? Manufacturers could easily rectify this problem, but instead, consumers are put at risk simply because they lack technical aptitude.”
This could be fixed by changing these presumptions ---
1. The courts tend to treat traced-back IP addresses as belonging to individuals. They don't -- not only because of router security breaches but also because several people may legitmately share a router. Furthermore, it's not hard to spoof an IP address. Courts should not take IP addresses as proof of individual behavior.
2. Why are routers shipped with security turned off by default? Manufacturers could easily rectify this problem, but instead, consumers are put at risk simply because they lack technical aptitude.”
A Patriot's PATRIOT Act
Commented Nov 04, 2009 at 00:32:10 in Politics
“The most telling part of the Patriot Act is that which forbids businesses and others from telling anyone that they were subject to government demand for their records.
There is only one reason for such a rule-- to forbid the public (and Congress) the information they need to properly monitor the extent and numbers of such searches.
Just as there is only one reason for the FISA II telecomm immunity provision -- to prevent exposing what has been done to public scrutiny.
We can't have a vibrant democracy when critical surveillance actions are taken in secret. My hat's off to Rep. Conyers in his valiant attempt to strike a legitmate balance between security and individual rights.”
There is only one reason for such a rule-- to forbid the public (and Congress) the information they need to properly monitor the extent and numbers of such searches.
Just as there is only one reason for the FISA II telecomm immunity provision -- to prevent exposing what has been done to public scrutiny.
We can't have a vibrant democracy when critical surveillance actions are taken in secret. My hat's off to Rep. Conyers in his valiant attempt to strike a legitmate balance between security and individual rights.”
hp blogger Rep. John Conyers replied on Nov 04, 2009 at 07:32:07
“Thanks benali. This is a point that we address in our changes to the legislation.”
No Difference Between President Obama and Candidate Obama
Commented Nov 03, 2009 at 14:41:45 in Politics
“With all due respect to Mr. Plouffe, he is only writing this article because a large portion of Obama voters believe Mr. Obama has NOT delivered on his campaign promises.
Rather than try to change their perception through public relations, a better approach would be to produce on the campaign promises.
1. Withdraw from Iraq (not leave 40,000 troops there and call that "withdrawal")
2. Protect America's economy (not wall street through its representatives Geithner and Summers)
3. Dismantle Bush's illegal secrecy and spying (not protect it through the actions detailed in Newsweek's Declassified Blog)
Many of the comments to Arianna's post show that though many of us are dissappointed, we also realize it is early in Mr. Obama's first term, and that he faces tremendous challenges.
But ultimately, the way to get us back is to produce on the promises -- not argue that the President has fulfilled his campaign promises when he clearly has not.”
Rather than try to change their perception through public relations, a better approach would be to produce on the campaign promises.
1. Withdraw from Iraq (not leave 40,000 troops there and call that "withdrawal")
2. Protect America's economy (not wall street through its representatives Geithner and Summers)
3. Dismantle Bush's illegal secrecy and spying (not protect it through the actions detailed in Newsweek's Declassified Blog)
Many of the comments to Arianna's post show that though many of us are dissappointed, we also realize it is early in Mr. Obama's first term, and that he faces tremendous challenges.
But ultimately, the way to get us back is to produce on the promises -- not argue that the President has fulfilled his campaign promises when he clearly has not.”
BLBass replied on Nov 03, 2009 at 22:36:23
“Right. Arianna is not a voice in the wilderness on this issue; she is accurately reflecting the overwhelming sense of the majority of progressives, and running this site she's in a good position to know exactly how intense that feeling is. Plouffe responds as if to a single critic when he should really be justifying the administration's actions to the entire audience here. I think he fails at the latter goal. The most important "promise" that Obama has broken is to change the way business is done in Washington. That was the reason for a significant number, possibly a majority, of the independent votes he won in '08 -- and it has fallen completely by the wayside on domestic issues, whether in the form of relying on lobbyists to get bills through Congress or refusing to hold individuals accountable for their actions in the misplaced hope of earning bipartisan brownie points.”
Solja replied on Nov 03, 2009 at 16:14:39
“He wrote the article to counter that junk Arianna wrote, because it's only her opinion, not the truth. David offers the truth. Arianna is far left and the rest of the country is not, which is probably the reason I almost NEVER agree with her.”
valkyrie5714 replied on Nov 03, 2009 at 16:14:30
“Rather than try to change their perception through public relations, a better approach would be to produce on the campaign promises "
Yeah but to quote Obama's hero - GW Bush (whose policies he's embraced with open arms) that would be "hard work". And President Obama has PROVED that he doesn't like hard work - instead he makes pretty speeshes which have no real EFFECT”
Yeah but to quote Obama's hero - GW Bush (whose policies he's embraced with open arms) that would be "hard work". And President Obama has PROVED that he doesn't like hard work - instead he makes pretty speeshes which have no real EFFECT”
GreatNews27 replied on Nov 03, 2009 at 16:04:24
“Thank you. Very well said.”
greejambri replied on Nov 03, 2009 at 15:59:36
“Amen, brother!”
whn replied on Nov 03, 2009 at 15:52:45
“Sorry benali! I disagree with you. Plouffe is right here! You see the glass as half empty... typical!
You clearly sound like someone who REALLY hasn't been affected by the economic downturns, the health problems the nations faces, the bigotry and discrimination most gay people have been treated to... or the inequality in pay women have been subjected to ...
Obama was elected for FOUR years... give him a break... it would do you well to see the glass as HALF FULL!”
You clearly sound like someone who REALLY hasn't been affected by the economic downturns, the health problems the nations faces, the bigotry and discrimination most gay people have been treated to... or the inequality in pay women have been subjected to ...
Obama was elected for FOUR years... give him a break... it would do you well to see the glass as HALF FULL!”
code blue replied on Nov 03, 2009 at 15:48:01
“You need to read Politifact, the 2009 Pulitzer winning web site that is tracking 515 of Obama's campaign promises.
Your view of which promises have been kept and not yet kept is very narrow. What did you want? Us to pull out of Iraq overnight?”
Your view of which promises have been kept and not yet kept is very narrow. What did you want? Us to pull out of Iraq overnight?”
theinternetisnotatruck replied on Nov 03, 2009 at 15:43:49
“Agreed...but where are you getting that 40,000 number?? you're not helping your case with that incredibly wrong number....try 130,000 to 140,000--and there's no indication that that number is going down any time soon.”
TheIndependenceParty replied on Nov 03, 2009 at 15:42:40
“Excellent! Fanned.”
RPLinNYC replied on Nov 03, 2009 at 15:42:25
“You put this better than I could, benali, and more politely.
I found Mr. Plouffe's spin here an insult to my intelligence.”
I found Mr. Plouffe's spin here an insult to my intelligence.”
petalsoft replied on Nov 03, 2009 at 15:40:34
“answer to your 1. Obama never stated that he would withdrawal all of our troops from the country. Sorry if you missed that memo.
answer to your 2. Obama did protect America's economy because we would have had a Great Depression. Does anyone not understand that? Yes, life would have been way worse. If you can still type on the internet...consider yourself one of those saved by the economy.
answer to your 3. Do you not believe that the secrecy spying issues have been there since the turn of the Century and isn't anything that can be overturned in only a year? Plus, while I'm typing to respond to you now....I'm wondering how many times Huffpo has moderated my comments and why.”
answer to your 2. Obama did protect America's economy because we would have had a Great Depression. Does anyone not understand that? Yes, life would have been way worse. If you can still type on the internet...consider yourself one of those saved by the economy.
answer to your 3. Do you not believe that the secrecy spying issues have been there since the turn of the Century and isn't anything that can be overturned in only a year? Plus, while I'm typing to respond to you now....I'm wondering how many times Huffpo has moderated my comments and why.”
dim replied on Nov 03, 2009 at 15:40:27
“British Petroleum just took over the Rumaila oil field, one of the largest in the world. I don't think they could have done that without imperial troops there.”
lilalove replied on Nov 03, 2009 at 15:36:04
“Obama never said he would fully withdraw all troops from Iraq. He said he would be as careful getting out as we are careless getting in. Obama said we would leave around 50,000 troops in Iraq.. and never gave a time when they would be removed... it was conditions based and Obama does not read tea leafs.
9 months ago everyone with a retirement fund had half of their life savings wiped out. Almost every middle class American has a 401k these days. The fast actions of Obama's economic team saved my mother and father in-law $500,000. They raised two sons and put both through college and saved for their retirement on $30,000 - $70,000 a year, for 36 years. 9 months ago they were more scared than you can imagine because so much of their hard earned and saved money had been wiped out in a blink of an eye. Obama and his team put blood back into the hemorrhaging system and saved my mother and father in laws savings. We are going to have to wait until things are more stable before we operate and remove the elements that caused the rupture. Too much too fast would make us less stable not more. And it will be one hell of a fight to get needed reform in place. One step at a time. That's how it gets done.
As for the wiretap issues, Obama needs to meet with Feingold and find the "golden mean", on that one.”
9 months ago everyone with a retirement fund had half of their life savings wiped out. Almost every middle class American has a 401k these days. The fast actions of Obama's economic team saved my mother and father in-law $500,000. They raised two sons and put both through college and saved for their retirement on $30,000 - $70,000 a year, for 36 years. 9 months ago they were more scared than you can imagine because so much of their hard earned and saved money had been wiped out in a blink of an eye. Obama and his team put blood back into the hemorrhaging system and saved my mother and father in laws savings. We are going to have to wait until things are more stable before we operate and remove the elements that caused the rupture. Too much too fast would make us less stable not more. And it will be one hell of a fight to get needed reform in place. One step at a time. That's how it gets done.
As for the wiretap issues, Obama needs to meet with Feingold and find the "golden mean", on that one.”
sadler05 replied on Nov 03, 2009 at 15:24:13
“Amen. Thanks - I wholeheartedly agree. On healthcare I keep getting mail from various groups saying show that you support the president on Health Care Reform. I cannot sign up since I do not know what the President actually is for regarding Health Care Reform. A robust public option is my bottom line - and I do not see him supporting that so I cannot support him on his health care reform. Yes some reform is better than nothing only up to a point. We must not just a few million Americans to the insurance companies. They must have competition or their prices will continue to skyrocket.”
Obama One Year Later: The Audacity of Winning vs. The Timidity of Governing
Commented Nov 03, 2009 at 02:25:47 in Politics
“I *so* wish Arianna were wrong, but we all know she's spot on yet again.
In economic policy, Obama's team (Geithner and Summers et al) seem as concerned with protecting wall street and the existing system as they are with correcting deep economic and structural problems. Obama's first move was to spend the remaining 350 $B of the TARP give-away, meekly implementing Bush's plan without adding the oversight it required. Later he said he was surprised when wall street continued with the bonuses!
In foreign policy, Obama keep Bush's Sec'y of Defense and appointed Clinton of Sec'y of State (who many of us voted against specifically because we preferred Candidate Obama's peace plans). Obama appears poised to meekly follow the advice of the Pentagon in regarding leaving 40,000 troops in Iraq as a "withdrawal" and probably getting deeper into Afghanistan.
In secrecy and transparency, Obama's DOJ is backing Bush 100% in court positions and in continuing illegal surveillance (see articles at Newsweek's Declassified blog to get all the gory details).
Obama clearly values continuity and compromise over the CHANGE we supporters voted for.”
In economic policy, Obama's team (Geithner and Summers et al) seem as concerned with protecting wall street and the existing system as they are with correcting deep economic and structural problems. Obama's first move was to spend the remaining 350 $B of the TARP give-away, meekly implementing Bush's plan without adding the oversight it required. Later he said he was surprised when wall street continued with the bonuses!
In foreign policy, Obama keep Bush's Sec'y of Defense and appointed Clinton of Sec'y of State (who many of us voted against specifically because we preferred Candidate Obama's peace plans). Obama appears poised to meekly follow the advice of the Pentagon in regarding leaving 40,000 troops in Iraq as a "withdrawal" and probably getting deeper into Afghanistan.
In secrecy and transparency, Obama's DOJ is backing Bush 100% in court positions and in continuing illegal surveillance (see articles at Newsweek's Declassified blog to get all the gory details).
Obama clearly values continuity and compromise over the CHANGE we supporters voted for.”
Obama Restores Power To Intelligence Oversight Board
Commented Oct 30, 2009 at 15:09:11 in Politics
“It's important that readers realize that President Obama is actively BLOCKING intelligence oversight and transparency.
Read the articles on this topic at Newsweek's Declassified blog at http://blog.newsweek.com/blogs/declassified/default.aspx -- -
"Barack Obama's Idea of 'Government Transparency' Would Make Cheney Proud"
"Obama Secrecy Watch-- Don't Tread on My 'Executive Perogatives'."”
Read the articles on this topic at Newsweek's Declassified blog at http://blog.newsweek.com/blogs/declassified/default.aspx -- -
"Barack Obama's Idea of 'Government Transparency' Would Make Cheney Proud"
"Obama Secrecy Watch-- Don't Tread on My 'Executive Perogatives'."”
Democratic Senate Candidates Blast Kirk Over Health Care Comment
Commented Oct 20, 2009 at 20:23:06 in Chicago
“Mr. Kirk loyally voted for Bush for 8 years, and in the last year or two he figured out Bush was unpopular, so he "bravely" moved away from a few Bush positions. Kirk's voting record is not conservative but instead extremist (like any good Bushie). It will be tragic and very embarrassing for Illinoinans if this person is elected to be one of our Senators.”
madHenry replied on Oct 20, 2009 at 21:17:57
“I really wanted Lisa to run for this seat since she put off running for governor. But I will take either of the three Dem candidates over Kirk. Jackson worries me a bit, though since, I'm guessing, she will have little pull downstate.”
Attack of the Sidewiki
Commented Oct 07, 2009 at 18:16:51 in Technology
“Google not evil? How about...
* Google Books, whereby the company has digitized books without asking copyright owners -- quickly landing them in court
* Their ownership of YouTube, a major source of song piracy on the web
* Their helpful identification of Chinese dissidents to the Chinese government (turning over those who perform "illegal searches" to the Chinese government)
Now add Sidewiki to the list.
Google Inc. has a lengthening list of projects that make money off everyone else's intellectual property, violating the laws that protect that intellectual property along the way. Unless the government moves to protect intellectual property against Google's aggression, I wonder who will bother to record music, write books, or develop websites in the future?”
* Google Books, whereby the company has digitized books without asking copyright owners -- quickly landing them in court
* Their ownership of YouTube, a major source of song piracy on the web
* Their helpful identification of Chinese dissidents to the Chinese government (turning over those who perform "illegal searches" to the Chinese government)
Now add Sidewiki to the list.
Google Inc. has a lengthening list of projects that make money off everyone else's intellectual property, violating the laws that protect that intellectual property along the way. Unless the government moves to protect intellectual property against Google's aggression, I wonder who will bother to record music, write books, or develop websites in the future?”
Fabini replied on Oct 11, 2009 at 09:46:05
“I don't begrudge your point of view, but sometimes I thing blaming Google is like blaming Ford or GM when an automobile is used in a bank robbery. It's the individual user's behavior that is the problem.
Oh yes, I would be mad as all get out if Google digitized one of my books without a contract and payment.”
Oh yes, I would be mad as all get out if Google digitized one of my books without a contract and payment.”
Health Insurance Premium Rises 29 Percent
Commented Sep 01, 2009 at 20:59:20 in Politics
“My health insurance went up nearly 100% last year.
What is amazing about this is that I have never made a single claim. Ever.
The company provided no reason when I called to ask them why, but they eagerly told me I could apply to enter a "newer" plan.
Checking on the web, I found that this is common practice. It is how companies force people to re-apply for their insurance, thereby providing a rationale to drop anyone who has developed a health problem while under their care. This way they can claim they don't drop anyone who has claims, instead they can deny based on a "pre-existing condition" when they are forced to re-apply.
I'm a Republican who favors a free-market approach to health care. Unfortunately we do not have it in the US. We have an oligopoly that can only be changed by government intervention.”
What is amazing about this is that I have never made a single claim. Ever.
The company provided no reason when I called to ask them why, but they eagerly told me I could apply to enter a "newer" plan.
Checking on the web, I found that this is common practice. It is how companies force people to re-apply for their insurance, thereby providing a rationale to drop anyone who has developed a health problem while under their care. This way they can claim they don't drop anyone who has claims, instead they can deny based on a "pre-existing condition" when they are forced to re-apply.
I'm a Republican who favors a free-market approach to health care. Unfortunately we do not have it in the US. We have an oligopoly that can only be changed by government intervention.”
moosala replied on Sep 04, 2009 at 15:35:29
“+1
Thank you for shedding some light on some of the many shady business practices of these companies. I also give you credit for seeing the obvious (no free market in health care!) regardless of party affiliation! Wish more members of BOTH parties would do that.
You're right, the health care industry as it presently exists in no way resembles a free market.
Here's some more evidence on that front. Go to your doctor for a routine treatment (strep throat for example). Ask exactly how much your visit, including the diagnostic test, will cost. You'll either receive a blank stare or the doctor will go off to look through some paperwork in the office trying to find a price... he/she will not know how much the services actually cost. Nor do you, the typical patient. Nor does your insurance company... or more likely, they are unwilling to tell you.
Now ask your doctor which antibiotic represents your best value for treating your strep throat. Again receive the blank stare.
Another interesting tidbit: physician contracts with insurers typically forbid offering discounted services to patients... ANY patients. In other words, insurer dictates the doctor may NOT decide for himself how much he wishes to charge his own customer, even if customer has no connection with the insurer. Microsoft got in trouble for this sort of manipulation with Windows... has any insurer been punished for this behavior, at all? Why not?
Not a free market, not gonna change without government involvement.”
Thank you for shedding some light on some of the many shady business practices of these companies. I also give you credit for seeing the obvious (no free market in health care!) regardless of party affiliation! Wish more members of BOTH parties would do that.
You're right, the health care industry as it presently exists in no way resembles a free market.
Here's some more evidence on that front. Go to your doctor for a routine treatment (strep throat for example). Ask exactly how much your visit, including the diagnostic test, will cost. You'll either receive a blank stare or the doctor will go off to look through some paperwork in the office trying to find a price... he/she will not know how much the services actually cost. Nor do you, the typical patient. Nor does your insurance company... or more likely, they are unwilling to tell you.
Now ask your doctor which antibiotic represents your best value for treating your strep throat. Again receive the blank stare.
Another interesting tidbit: physician contracts with insurers typically forbid offering discounted services to patients... ANY patients. In other words, insurer dictates the doctor may NOT decide for himself how much he wishes to charge his own customer, even if customer has no connection with the insurer. Microsoft got in trouble for this sort of manipulation with Windows... has any insurer been punished for this behavior, at all? Why not?
Not a free market, not gonna change without government involvement.”
Strategic Communications and the Graveyard of Empires
Commented Aug 31, 2009 at 14:42:18 in World
“Mr. Holbrooke asks -- "How could a mass murderer who publicly praised the terrorists of Sept. 11 be winning the hearts and minds of anyone? "
That's easy. We lack the ability to see ourselves as others see us.
OBL's 1996 declaration of war clearly stated that the US would be attacked because it intervenes in the internal affairs of Muslim nations. (Specifically it cites our military interventions in SArabia, Iraq, and Israel/Palestine).
But the US President told the American people something very different -- we were attacked "because of our freedoms."
His actions in starting a war in Iraq, occupying Afghanistan for 8 years, and procuring military bases throughout the region are counterproductive.
We are gaining "hearts and minds" in the region about as effectively as British military operations were gaining the hearts and minds of Americans in 1776.”
That's easy. We lack the ability to see ourselves as others see us.
OBL's 1996 declaration of war clearly stated that the US would be attacked because it intervenes in the internal affairs of Muslim nations. (Specifically it cites our military interventions in SArabia, Iraq, and Israel/Palestine).
But the US President told the American people something very different -- we were attacked "because of our freedoms."
His actions in starting a war in Iraq, occupying Afghanistan for 8 years, and procuring military bases throughout the region are counterproductive.
We are gaining "hearts and minds" in the region about as effectively as British military operations were gaining the hearts and minds of Americans in 1776.”
What's Wrong With American Medicine?
Commented Aug 19, 2009 at 00:53:23 in Living
“Here's what's wrong with healthcare--
My friend had to have an operation. He took his pills with him to the hospital, only to be told that he has to take their pills instead. He discovers he was charged $100 apiece for their pills, whereas his cost only about 15 cents each.
Everyone I know has had experiences like this (friends, sister, mother, dad).
There is overcharging in the healthcare system that is purposeful and systemic. It amounts to nothing less than fraud.
Why doesn't anyone point this out?”
My friend had to have an operation. He took his pills with him to the hospital, only to be told that he has to take their pills instead. He discovers he was charged $100 apiece for their pills, whereas his cost only about 15 cents each.
Everyone I know has had experiences like this (friends, sister, mother, dad).
There is overcharging in the healthcare system that is purposeful and systemic. It amounts to nothing less than fraud.
Why doesn't anyone point this out?”
Cheryl Layos replied on Aug 19, 2009 at 09:18:02
“This HAS been pointed out, in a general way, at least. Your friend was paying an exhorbitant price for his meds because he is also paying for the hospital's unrecouped costs of treating uninsured and underinsured patients. All of those costs are tacked on to the actual cost of the pill or bandage or whatever; that is at least one part (not the only) of the reason for our ridiculously high-priced medical care. So anytime you're tempted to think that that the uninsured members of our society are not your problem, remember that and think again.”
Strip Searches Pervasive Despite Huge Settlements
Commented Jul 22, 2009 at 02:07:46 in Politics
“This topic needs MUCH more publicity because the average law-abiding, middle-class American has no clue this is happening.
Back in about 1980 it was a big scandal when it was disclosed that strip searches were routine for *all* females brought in to the Chicago police department between 1952 and 1979. An estimated several hundred thousand women were strip searched when brought in for routine questioning -- no charges filed -- or minor infractions like traffic violations or unpaid parking tickets.
What kind of country lets this activity continue?”
Back in about 1980 it was a big scandal when it was disclosed that strip searches were routine for *all* females brought in to the Chicago police department between 1952 and 1979. An estimated several hundred thousand women were strip searched when brought in for routine questioning -- no charges filed -- or minor infractions like traffic violations or unpaid parking tickets.
What kind of country lets this activity continue?”
zenwhenicanbe2 replied on Jul 22, 2009 at 09:15:48
“I'm running out of things to say... there are so many wonderful people in this country, from our President on down to the common man on the street.... but upon returning from a recent 5 week trip to Europe and beyond I was overwhelmed at the feeling of being in a police state. This occurred upon arrival at the airport, the tension and stress exhibited by my fellow Americans in the customs process was palpable. The compulsory full hand "scan" of foreign visitors' fingerprints, they were informed this was for their protection (uh, no one in any country asked me to provide them with a scan of my handprint or anything of the sort) and the prevalence of domineering high strung officers. These people did not seem well to my perception, I mean, the officers I saw in US customs would have stood out in any of the countries I visited. It made me queasy, I'm serious, not figuratively....literally. I really do find it interesting that all of these right wing folks are hollering about the "new world order" and most of them trash France and Europe's "socialism" in the process. If they ever had the opportunity to spend time there they might find that their idyllic dream of yesteryear is still quite alive if you just get on a plane.”
Hopeington replied on Jul 22, 2009 at 02:12:46
“You should hear what they do if you are charged and convicted by them!!!”
The Health Insurance Mafia Deserves a Good Screwing
Commented Jun 12, 2009 at 01:27:04 in Politics
“Premiums are not "randomly jacked up." They are purposely doubled or tripled on a schedule that ends a particular plan and forces all those people to "reapply" for a new plan. This is how the insurers can drop anyone who has developed a chronic health condition during the "re-application process," instead of honestly stating what they're really doing -- dropping people who develop health expenses from their coverage.”
How The Insiders Failed Obama
Commented Mar 03, 2009 at 00:51:46 in Politics
“For his foreign policy team, Obama relied on insiders like Hillary, Holbrooke, and even the Bush-holdover Gates. Is it any surprise our first concrete actions have been to send 17,000 more troops to Afghanistan and ensure our "pullout" from Iraq keeps 50,000 troops there?
This isn't the "change" I voted for. Obama is being poorly served by his establishment-encrusted insiders. Bring in Z-big and Hart for some fresh ideas and break out of the imperial box Bush put us in.”
This isn't the "change" I voted for. Obama is being poorly served by his establishment-encrusted insiders. Bring in Z-big and Hart for some fresh ideas and break out of the imperial box Bush put us in.”
Roberto31 replied on Mar 03, 2009 at 10:15:16
“I AGREE WITH YOU. OBAMA IS JUST BUSH ON STEROIDS!! WHAT A TERRIBLE SCAM HE HAS PULLED ON US DEMOCRATS. NEVER AGAIN WILL I VOTE FOR A BIG CITY MACHINE POLITICIAN LIKE OBAMA. GET SOME GOVERNORS FROM SMALL STATES LIKE CLINTON. THAT IS WHERE DEMOCRATS SHOULD HAVE GONE FOR A CONDIDATE. OBAMA WILL BE THE DEATH BELL FOR DEMOCRATS IN THE 2010 ELECTION FOR SURE.”
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