As if his Wall Street connections, hawkish and unbalanced foreign policy views, and contempt for even the most basic civil liberties and protections weren’t enough to arouse concern among the public, Mitt Romney has surprised the American people yet again after giving his latest opinion about the nature of corporations.
While speaking at a fair in Iowa, Romney stated, “Corporations are people, my friend,” in response to a remark over whether he would raise taxes on people or corporations. This reply is a telling indicator as to where Mitt Romney’s real priorities and loyalties lie, and leaves the public wondering as to which “person’s” welfare Romney would be putting first if elected: the individual’s or the corporation’s?
Instead of focusing on the high unemployment, reductions in basic benefits, and financial uncertainty for the average American, Romney is again revealing that he wants to continue the GOP pattern of prioritizing big business tax breaks, CEO bottom lines, and corporate cronyism at the expense of the needs of the individual. Though not the first time Mitt Romney has offered shocking and revealing statements to the public, including his pledge to “Double Guantanamo” and his newfound beliefs that one of the foremost economic problems is “Illegals,” this new disclosure about his opinions regarding corporate personhood is especially troubling in this time of recession and economic crisis. Wall Street and Corporate America enjoyed eight years on top while the public debt grew and the American people suffered; it’s time to ensure that today, our government puts actual “people” first and creates a culture of accountability when working with business. We can’t afford another decade of indifference, irresponsibility, and greed.
Monday, August 15, 2011
Thursday, August 11, 2011
Fair and Balanced? Not likely!
Fox News is proving yet again that their slogan of ‘Fair and Balanced’ is the farthest thing from the truth. The highly publicized Ames Straw Poll is taking place this Saturday and will be preceded by a debate tonight, hosted by Fox News. Presidential candidates are required to meet the following criteria to take part in the poll:
1. Must be registered with the FEC.
2. Must meet all Constitutional requirements.
3. Garnered at least an average of one percent in five national polls based on most recent polling leading up to the registration day.
Apparently, however, Fox News had one other criteria they failed to mention in their requirements: Candidates must be straight.
Fred Karger, the first openly gay Republican Presidential candidate, is being denied a space in tonight’s Republican debate because Fox News has decided to retroactively change their criteria. In the August 4th Harris Interactive poll, Karger garnered 2% of the vote (tying with Tim Pawlenty and Jon Huntsman) which pushed his national polling average above 1%. According to Fox News, the poll was invalid because it was taken online. But as Karger himself pointed out, this clarification of which polls are permissible didn’t happen until AFTER he had submitted his list.
This is just another example of Fox News’s ridiculous policies and their poorly hidden bias. According to the original written criteria, it shouldn’t matter if a candidate has national name recognition or what exactly his or her personal political views are and it definitely shouldn’t matter what the candidate’s sexual orientation is. All that matters is that the candidate meets all three of the criteria and Fred Karger has. Altering the criteria to keep him out of the debate is unacceptable and begs the following question:
What is Fox News so afraid will happen if Fred Karger is allowed to take part in this debate?
1. Must be registered with the FEC.
2. Must meet all Constitutional requirements.
3. Garnered at least an average of one percent in five national polls based on most recent polling leading up to the registration day.
Apparently, however, Fox News had one other criteria they failed to mention in their requirements: Candidates must be straight.
Fred Karger, the first openly gay Republican Presidential candidate, is being denied a space in tonight’s Republican debate because Fox News has decided to retroactively change their criteria. In the August 4th Harris Interactive poll, Karger garnered 2% of the vote (tying with Tim Pawlenty and Jon Huntsman) which pushed his national polling average above 1%. According to Fox News, the poll was invalid because it was taken online. But as Karger himself pointed out, this clarification of which polls are permissible didn’t happen until AFTER he had submitted his list.
This is just another example of Fox News’s ridiculous policies and their poorly hidden bias. According to the original written criteria, it shouldn’t matter if a candidate has national name recognition or what exactly his or her personal political views are and it definitely shouldn’t matter what the candidate’s sexual orientation is. All that matters is that the candidate meets all three of the criteria and Fred Karger has. Altering the criteria to keep him out of the debate is unacceptable and begs the following question:
What is Fox News so afraid will happen if Fred Karger is allowed to take part in this debate?
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
Cosumer Financial Protection Bureau
Over the weekend President Obama announced a 21st Century Democrats previously endorsed candidate, Rich Cordray, as the director of the new Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB). Mr. Cordray has served as the Ohio Attorney General, Ohio State Treasurer, in the Ohio House of Representatives, and several of local positions. We have endorsed Rich for many of these races, and we are very proud of him and his appointment to this office with the CFPB. His work and leadership at the CFPB will surely make an impact in the lives of millions of Americans.
The CFPB was established with the Dodd-Frank financial reform bill passed in 2010, and is given the responsibility to protect consumers against abusive and fraudulent practices related to credit cards, mortgages, payday loans and other financial products. The Financial Reform bill was a key piece of legislation passed by the Democratic majority Congress that placed regulations on the entire financial industry. After the ‘07/’08 meltdown, it became clear that investors across the entire system were at risk because the industry was using incredibly risky, abusive, and harmful policies. Together, the Dodd-Frank bill and the CFPB will monitor the industry and enforce these new regulations in order to protect American investors from fraudulent activities.
We would like to congratulate Mr. Cordray on his nominations, and we know he will continue to make us proud. Thank you for all of your service to your constituents in Ohio, and we wish you the best of luck in DC.
The CFPB was established with the Dodd-Frank financial reform bill passed in 2010, and is given the responsibility to protect consumers against abusive and fraudulent practices related to credit cards, mortgages, payday loans and other financial products. The Financial Reform bill was a key piece of legislation passed by the Democratic majority Congress that placed regulations on the entire financial industry. After the ‘07/’08 meltdown, it became clear that investors across the entire system were at risk because the industry was using incredibly risky, abusive, and harmful policies. Together, the Dodd-Frank bill and the CFPB will monitor the industry and enforce these new regulations in order to protect American investors from fraudulent activities.
We would like to congratulate Mr. Cordray on his nominations, and we know he will continue to make us proud. Thank you for all of your service to your constituents in Ohio, and we wish you the best of luck in DC.
Tuesday, July 19, 2011
Wisconsin Recalls Update
Despite the placement of “Protest Democrats” on the ballot, the true Democrats won the primary elections in all six Wisconsin recall districts. Republicans encouraged some of their own to run in the Democratic primaries in an obvious attempt to confuse voters, exhaust Democratic resources, and buy recall candidates more campaign time. Fortunately, the plan did not work, and now, the true Democrats are in a position to go head-to-head with GOP recall candidates.
Difficulties for Democrats still lie ahead. To protect themselves in the approaching general elections as well as the 2012 cycle, Republicans redrew districts to benefit their own political goals, a process that divided communities and failed to represent the diversity of the state. Gerrymandering itself is illegal, and beyond that, Wisconsin law specifically dictates that the state legislature cannot draw district lines until after local governments draw country board districts. This deters gerrymandering by allowing communities to define their own borders before any political lines are imposed. However, Republicans completely ignored this law, and now, they want to pass new legislation that would justify this bad behavior while the party still controls the state government. It is obvious that the Wisconsin GOP will stop at nothing to win, even if it means redefining the law to suit its own interests.
After the protest candidates and the last-minute redistricting, Democrats have a right to be riled up, but there is much more at stake than victory against a group of Republicans unwilling to play fair. We must remember the reasoning behind the recall elections, especially the restrictions on collective bargaining rights of public employees imposed by Wisconsin Republicans. This is not only a government employees issue; it’s a worker’s rights issue. The people of Wisconsin have spoken. They have collected over 15,000 signatures in each district, and they have demanded these recalls! Now is the time to stand up for labor. Democrats must win the three seats necessary for a majority that will vote down Walker’s anti-union law, and in the process, they can show Republicans that unfair tactics get candidates nowhere.
Difficulties for Democrats still lie ahead. To protect themselves in the approaching general elections as well as the 2012 cycle, Republicans redrew districts to benefit their own political goals, a process that divided communities and failed to represent the diversity of the state. Gerrymandering itself is illegal, and beyond that, Wisconsin law specifically dictates that the state legislature cannot draw district lines until after local governments draw country board districts. This deters gerrymandering by allowing communities to define their own borders before any political lines are imposed. However, Republicans completely ignored this law, and now, they want to pass new legislation that would justify this bad behavior while the party still controls the state government. It is obvious that the Wisconsin GOP will stop at nothing to win, even if it means redefining the law to suit its own interests.
After the protest candidates and the last-minute redistricting, Democrats have a right to be riled up, but there is much more at stake than victory against a group of Republicans unwilling to play fair. We must remember the reasoning behind the recall elections, especially the restrictions on collective bargaining rights of public employees imposed by Wisconsin Republicans. This is not only a government employees issue; it’s a worker’s rights issue. The people of Wisconsin have spoken. They have collected over 15,000 signatures in each district, and they have demanded these recalls! Now is the time to stand up for labor. Democrats must win the three seats necessary for a majority that will vote down Walker’s anti-union law, and in the process, they can show Republicans that unfair tactics get candidates nowhere.
Thursday, July 14, 2011
Sorry, No ID, No Ballot
Republican governors and legislatures from around the country are preparing their strategy to win the 2012 elections by disenfranchising voters without any form of government issued identification. In a systematic push, the need for voter ID laws has been raised claiming that voter fraud is running wild and a serious threat to democracy. Even though the Justice Department has found little evidence to support such claims, the Republicans insist. What are they really getting at? Who are they targeting? By requiring voters to present a photo ID at the polling station, they hope that minorities and the poor will be turned away.
It is not uncommon for people of the poorest socio-economic demographics to not have a valid photo ID, whether it is a driver's license or a state ID. A Brennan Center for Justice study issued in 2006 finds that 11% of American's would not be eligible to vote under these new voter ID laws if passed. Of that 11%, minorities and the poor are disproportionately represented. While not exclusively, the primary reason is the financial burden of paying the fee's required to receive an ID. It is not a coincidence that these groups also tend to vote for Democrats. Under the rules of voter ID laws, Republicans are hoping to silence the voice of minorities and the poor. It's a sleazy and backhanded method to gain the edge in an election...not to mention unconstitutional.
Sen. Michael Bennet (D-CO) and others recently petitioned the Department of Justice to inquire about the legality of these laws. These Democratic senators are defending the rights of millions of Americans. We cannot allow Republicans to cast a shadow of any form on our right to vote. While addressing voter fraud is a legitimate concern, it is unacceptable to do so in a way that places an extreme burden on those of us who are least capable of carrying it. Those disenfranchised by these laws are otherwise eligible to vote, so let's make sure they stay that way!
It is not uncommon for people of the poorest socio-economic demographics to not have a valid photo ID, whether it is a driver's license or a state ID. A Brennan Center for Justice study issued in 2006 finds that 11% of American's would not be eligible to vote under these new voter ID laws if passed. Of that 11%, minorities and the poor are disproportionately represented. While not exclusively, the primary reason is the financial burden of paying the fee's required to receive an ID. It is not a coincidence that these groups also tend to vote for Democrats. Under the rules of voter ID laws, Republicans are hoping to silence the voice of minorities and the poor. It's a sleazy and backhanded method to gain the edge in an election...not to mention unconstitutional.
Sen. Michael Bennet (D-CO) and others recently petitioned the Department of Justice to inquire about the legality of these laws. These Democratic senators are defending the rights of millions of Americans. We cannot allow Republicans to cast a shadow of any form on our right to vote. While addressing voter fraud is a legitimate concern, it is unacceptable to do so in a way that places an extreme burden on those of us who are least capable of carrying it. Those disenfranchised by these laws are otherwise eligible to vote, so let's make sure they stay that way!
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
Republicans Walk Away From the Table - Again
On Sunday, President Obama sat down with Congressional leaders from both parties to discuss the nation’s debt. As the August 2nd default deadline approaches, there is increasing need for a final agreement between Democrats and Republicans, but the meeting ended after an only an hour and a half of discussion. Why? Because the Republicans walked out in the middle of the meeting.
Throughout the debt negotiation process, Republicans have proved unwilling to compromise on tax increases even on the brink of financial disaster. Republicans portrayed themselves as crusaders for large-scale debt reduction, but over the weekend, they abandoned Obama’s large-scale, bipartisan debt plan in favor of a smaller plan that protects their interests.
Obama’s proposal reduces United States debt by $4 trillion over the next ten years through $3 trillion in spending cuts and $1 trillion in tax revenues. This plan clearly favors spending cuts over tax increases three to one, but Speaker Boehner refuses to support any plan that increases taxes.
Boehner now advocates for a smaller plan of only $2.4 trillion in debt reduction originally proposed by Vice President Biden. This move is unwise as well as financially dangerous. During Sunday’s meeting, Biden himself warned Republicans the $2.4 trillion alternative is too rough to be adopted such short notice. Nothing was finalized during the Biden plan negotiations, because once again, Republicans abandoned the bargaining process once tax increases were mentioned.
Boehner’s actions make it perfectly clear that Republicans prioritize party interests before a debt crisis that impacts the entire nation. He views the Biden plan as an opportunity to minimize tax increases for the wealthiest Americans and multi-billion dollar corporations – oil companies will receive more than $4 billion in tax breaks this year alone. The United States cannot afford to default due to Republican unwillingness to compromise. In words of Harry Reid, ““If they don’t work to cooperate to get something done, the harm for this country and the world will be very significant. And that’s on their conscience.” Democrats must stand firm and tell Republicans that tax increases are an essential element of any debt negotiations.
Throughout the debt negotiation process, Republicans have proved unwilling to compromise on tax increases even on the brink of financial disaster. Republicans portrayed themselves as crusaders for large-scale debt reduction, but over the weekend, they abandoned Obama’s large-scale, bipartisan debt plan in favor of a smaller plan that protects their interests.
Obama’s proposal reduces United States debt by $4 trillion over the next ten years through $3 trillion in spending cuts and $1 trillion in tax revenues. This plan clearly favors spending cuts over tax increases three to one, but Speaker Boehner refuses to support any plan that increases taxes.
Boehner now advocates for a smaller plan of only $2.4 trillion in debt reduction originally proposed by Vice President Biden. This move is unwise as well as financially dangerous. During Sunday’s meeting, Biden himself warned Republicans the $2.4 trillion alternative is too rough to be adopted such short notice. Nothing was finalized during the Biden plan negotiations, because once again, Republicans abandoned the bargaining process once tax increases were mentioned.
Boehner’s actions make it perfectly clear that Republicans prioritize party interests before a debt crisis that impacts the entire nation. He views the Biden plan as an opportunity to minimize tax increases for the wealthiest Americans and multi-billion dollar corporations – oil companies will receive more than $4 billion in tax breaks this year alone. The United States cannot afford to default due to Republican unwillingness to compromise. In words of Harry Reid, ““If they don’t work to cooperate to get something done, the harm for this country and the world will be very significant. And that’s on their conscience.” Democrats must stand firm and tell Republicans that tax increases are an essential element of any debt negotiations.
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
Minnesota Government Shutdown: Day 6 and Counting
For the second time in a decade, the Minnesota government is shut down. Legislatures failed to come to an agreement over how to fix the $5 billion projected deficit and six days later, they’re still battling it out. Democrats, led by Governor Mark Dayton, propose a plan that would raise taxes on just the richest Minnesotans who make more than a million dollars a year. That translates to a mere 7,700 or 0.3% of taxpayers. In a move which surprised absolutely no one, the Republicans objected and instead preferred “very damaging cuts to health care, K-12 and higher education, state and local public safety, mass transit, and other essential services” because clearly protecting their own wealthy friends and campaign donors makes more sense than actually allowing money to reach those who need it.
The effects of the state shutdown have already been felt by many Minnesotans especially the 23,000 state workers who found themselves out of a job on Friday. State parks and highway rest stops have all been shut down and gaining licenses has suddenly started to come with an even longer wait than usual. The worst blow, perhaps, comes in the form of the shutdown of most of the social service agencies. However, Governor Dayton filed a request to allow a handful of social services to be considered essential so they can resume despite the shutdown.
Thus far, attempts to resolve this standoff have failed. Governor Dayton met with Republican leaders Senator Amy Koch and Representative Kurt Zellers on Tuesday but the meeting has yet to yield any positive results as both side seem unwilling to yield on their key points. Minnesota Republicans—like Republicans on the federal level—are trying to cram through spending cuts with no consideration for means to raise revenue. A one-sided plan will not be a successful one and we applaud Governor Dayton for standing ground.
The effects of the state shutdown have already been felt by many Minnesotans especially the 23,000 state workers who found themselves out of a job on Friday. State parks and highway rest stops have all been shut down and gaining licenses has suddenly started to come with an even longer wait than usual. The worst blow, perhaps, comes in the form of the shutdown of most of the social service agencies. However, Governor Dayton filed a request to allow a handful of social services to be considered essential so they can resume despite the shutdown.
Thus far, attempts to resolve this standoff have failed. Governor Dayton met with Republican leaders Senator Amy Koch and Representative Kurt Zellers on Tuesday but the meeting has yet to yield any positive results as both side seem unwilling to yield on their key points. Minnesota Republicans—like Republicans on the federal level—are trying to cram through spending cuts with no consideration for means to raise revenue. A one-sided plan will not be a successful one and we applaud Governor Dayton for standing ground.
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
Minimum Wage Cannot Be Up For Bargaining
If someone were to say eliminating the minimum wage “could potentially wipe out unemployment because we would be able to offer jobs at whatever level," would you vote for them? In this person’s defense, yes, we could have a nation filled with people working for one dollar an hour, because then everyone can have a job…that’s fair right? Of course not! Would it surprise you to hear that it was Michele Bachmann who suggested eliminating the minimum wage?
When asked by George Stephanopoulos, on Good Morning America, Bachmann avoided going back on that 2005 quote and defending the minimum wage. She proposed to eliminate the minimum wage, all while she continues to make a pretty comfortable salary as a Member of Congress. Even after "opposing" a congressional pay raise, she has willingly accepted every one that passed, which she was not required to do.
This is a huge disconnect that the Republican presidential candidates have with the American people. While Democrats are working everyday on how to help lift American’s up, Republicans like Bachmann are looking on how to lift multi-billion dollar businesses up by increasing their profit margins. How can we ask Americans making minimum wage to accept less while we continue to give multi-millionaires tax breaks. Everyone deserves a living wage, and for our elected leaders willing to give them less is unacceptable. We live in the most prosperous nation in the world. We did not get here by the graces of millionaires and billionaires. It has been working people that built this country, and its time the Republicans stop attacking the American workers.
When asked by George Stephanopoulos, on Good Morning America, Bachmann avoided going back on that 2005 quote and defending the minimum wage. She proposed to eliminate the minimum wage, all while she continues to make a pretty comfortable salary as a Member of Congress. Even after "opposing" a congressional pay raise, she has willingly accepted every one that passed, which she was not required to do.
This is a huge disconnect that the Republican presidential candidates have with the American people. While Democrats are working everyday on how to help lift American’s up, Republicans like Bachmann are looking on how to lift multi-billion dollar businesses up by increasing their profit margins. How can we ask Americans making minimum wage to accept less while we continue to give multi-millionaires tax breaks. Everyone deserves a living wage, and for our elected leaders willing to give them less is unacceptable. We live in the most prosperous nation in the world. We did not get here by the graces of millionaires and billionaires. It has been working people that built this country, and its time the Republicans stop attacking the American workers.
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
Michigan Citizens Fight Back Against "Emergency Managers"
There must be something in the Midwest Republican drinking water because the attacks on the middle class just keep coming. Back in March, the Minnesota State Senate passed a bill which allows for “emergency managers” to take the place of elected officials and also allows these officials broad powers including the ability to release local elected officials and terminate union contracts. In response to this ridiculous new law, a lawsuit was filed last week in the Ingham County Circuit Court by the Sugar Law Center of Detroit on behalf of 28 Michigan residents. The lawsuit seeks to have the bill be overturned on the grounds that it is unconstitutional and with good reason. Bill Goodman, the attorney arguing for the plaintiffs, called the legislation a “power grab” and also said that it essentially imposes a “dictator” on the people.
Goodman is absolutely right! This law is little more than a sad attempt by Governor Rick Snyder to try and grab more power and influence and to also impose his handpicked “emergency managers” on local areas who have already seen fit to elect otherwise. Such legislation stomps on the constitution and the principles upon which this country was founded. To allow it to stand would be a violation of the rights of the people. The Michigan courts must side with people and with democracy.
Goodman is absolutely right! This law is little more than a sad attempt by Governor Rick Snyder to try and grab more power and influence and to also impose his handpicked “emergency managers” on local areas who have already seen fit to elect otherwise. Such legislation stomps on the constitution and the principles upon which this country was founded. To allow it to stand would be a violation of the rights of the people. The Michigan courts must side with people and with democracy.
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Another Twist Emerges in the Wisconsin Recall Elections
The Wisconsin recall elections are fast approaching with 6 of the 19 Republicans in the Wisconsin State Senate facing challenges for their seats. This is the first time that so many recalls have been issued to so many legislators over the same issue. The Republican recall elections will begin on July 12th with the primaries and the general election will take place several weeks later in August. The recall elections are but the latest chapter in the saga of the Wisconsin legislature since the 14 Democrats walked out of the Wisconsin State Senate in protest of a bill which stripped collective bargaining from public workers. Since then, recall election efforts have left 6 Republicans and 3 Democrats facing recall elections in a few short weeks.
While the Democrats announced that they would not be running any “fake Republicans” in the primaries, the Republicans have persisted with their election tricks in an attempt to confuse voters and to force Democrats to spend more money on their campaigns. The use of such a ridiculous method clearly shows that the Republicans are almost definitely more concerned about the recall elections than they’ve been letting on. Republicans are referring to their fake Democrats as “protest candidates” but they are actually costing Wisconsin tax payers over $400,000. So much for fiscal responsibility!
It’s time to stop the power struggle and start coming together to come up with real solutions to middle class problems. Wisconsin Republicans have made it clear that they’re not interested in doing that. The Republicans have the backing of corporate CEOs, but we have the backing of people like you. The people of Wisconsin are standing up and 21st Century Democrats is proud to support them.
While the Democrats announced that they would not be running any “fake Republicans” in the primaries, the Republicans have persisted with their election tricks in an attempt to confuse voters and to force Democrats to spend more money on their campaigns. The use of such a ridiculous method clearly shows that the Republicans are almost definitely more concerned about the recall elections than they’ve been letting on. Republicans are referring to their fake Democrats as “protest candidates” but they are actually costing Wisconsin tax payers over $400,000. So much for fiscal responsibility!
It’s time to stop the power struggle and start coming together to come up with real solutions to middle class problems. Wisconsin Republicans have made it clear that they’re not interested in doing that. The Republicans have the backing of corporate CEOs, but we have the backing of people like you. The people of Wisconsin are standing up and 21st Century Democrats is proud to support them.
Thursday, June 16, 2011
2011 Youth Leadership Series: Richard Trumka
21st Century Democrats is happy to announce the start of our 2011 Youth Leadership Speaker Series next Thursday. Richard Trumka, President of the AFL-CIO, will be speaking Thursday, June 23rd at 6:00PM at the Capitol Visitor Center in the Orientation Theatre North. We are incredibly excited about this event and would like to invite all interns and any and all interested persons in the DC Metro area to attend. Admission is free, however, we ask that you be sure to register in advance at our website. Richard Trumka served three terms as UMWA president, served 15 years as Secretary-Treasurer at AFL-CIO before being elected President in September 2009. Learn more about President Trumka here.
Click Here to Register for President Trumka’s Speech
Click Here to Register for President Trumka’s Speech
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
Wisconsin Supreme Court Supports Anti-Union Legislation
Yesterday, the Wisconsin Supreme Court struck down the ruling of Dane County Circuit Judge Maryann Sumi, thereby reinstating the anti-union legislation passed illegally in March of 2011. The brave walk-out of 14 Democratic Wisconsin State Senators did not allow for a quorum to be present and no vote could be taken. Following weeks of the walk-out and protests in the State Capitol, the Republicans secretly redrafted the legislation to no longer include budgetary items, which would allow a vote without a quorum. However, Wisconsin laws requires a notice no less than a twenty-four hour prior to the convening of a government body. Even in extreme circumstances, a two hour notice must be provided. The Republican Senators of Wisconsin satisfied neither statute, and the law was deemed to have been illegally passed by Judge Sumi. It was created in blatant contempt of the law with the intent to strip unionized public worked of collective bargaining rights.
Tuesday's Wisconsin Supreme Court's overruling of this case represents a clear and partisan attack on worker’s rights. In a 4-3 vote along party lines, the Court ruled that the committee formed to draft revised legislation was not subject to any Open Meeting Laws, and therefore was not illegal...but the law clearly states otherwise. Any meeting of a government body, defined as,“state or local agency, board, commission, [or] committee...” must provide a notice of its meeting. These four Supreme Court Justices have backed the illegal Republican bill to disenfranchise workers. The people of Wisconsin deserve real justice, and it is the intention of 21st Century Democrats to keep fighting for the rights of every working person and family. A change must be made in Wisconsin and in any other state that looks to deny workers their rights.
Tuesday's Wisconsin Supreme Court's overruling of this case represents a clear and partisan attack on worker’s rights. In a 4-3 vote along party lines, the Court ruled that the committee formed to draft revised legislation was not subject to any Open Meeting Laws, and therefore was not illegal...but the law clearly states otherwise. Any meeting of a government body, defined as,“state or local agency, board, commission, [or] committee...” must provide a notice of its meeting. These four Supreme Court Justices have backed the illegal Republican bill to disenfranchise workers. The people of Wisconsin deserve real justice, and it is the intention of 21st Century Democrats to keep fighting for the rights of every working person and family. A change must be made in Wisconsin and in any other state that looks to deny workers their rights.
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
He Said What? That's Crazy!
Sound bytes from a few of the Republican presidential hopefuls have been in ample supply lately. Fresh off of the campaign trail, quotes are flying around that leave GOP leadership with hand prints on their foreheads and a bitter aftertaste of feet. Former US Senator Rick Santorum announced Monday that he will be seeking the GOP nomination for president, and in this address he said this about the brave soldiers who fought on D-Day in 1944, "Those Americans risked everything so they could make that decision on their health care plan." This, of course, is coming in defense of Rep. Ryan’s budget which effectively ends Medicare. This strange statement by Santorum has brought about a great deal of conversation. Exactly what he meant to accomplish though this obscure linkage of two seemingly unrelated ideas is unclear, but he’s not alone. Herman Cain, a fellow Republican running for president also had a foot-in-mouth moment while discussing his own credentials for the nation’s highest office. While commenting on his apparent lack of foreign policy experience, he said, “Uh, does the current president have any? How’s that working out for you?” Are you scratching your head too now? We are. In this two part conundrum, Mr. Cain likened himself to the foreign policy experience of President Obama and then immediately accused him of being under qualified. Needless to say, Mr. Cain ought to reconsider his position and begin to more carefully craft his message. President Obama has been very successful in foreign relations, beginning in 2009, when he led the global response to the financial and economic crisis, and most recently with the ratification of New START Treaty between the US and Russia. Merely weeks into the official GOP campaign season, their candidates have begun stumbling over their own words and making all but the right kind of headlines.
Friday, June 3, 2011
Protect Workers Rights
Continual delays and excuses by New Hampshire Speaker of the House Bill O’Brien to schedule a veto override vote are weakening the power of labor unions in the state. The current state of the Right-to-Work legislation prevents unions from receiving funds that help enforce labor contracts and cover the cost of negotiation. These are rights essential for labor unions to protect workers’ rights.
The Speaker’s delays come despite continued pressure from his own party and resignations by party leaders, House Deputy Majority Leader Matt Quandt and Whip Tim Copeland. Both members support the ability of unions to organize and resigned in opposition to not only the legislation, but specifically in opposition to Speaker O’Brien’s anti-labor and anti-worker agenda.
By delaying the vote the Speaker is alienating members of the both the Democratic and Republican parties who want to ensure that labor unions are protected. If other Republicans, like Quandt and Copeland, are willing to stand up for labor unions, than Speaker O’Brien needs to stand up as well, and schedule a vote. Without a vote, workers in the state of New Hampshire will lose the voice that advocates for their rights.
Speaker O’Brien must stop delaying and stop making excuses and give labor unions a fighting chance.
The Speaker’s delays come despite continued pressure from his own party and resignations by party leaders, House Deputy Majority Leader Matt Quandt and Whip Tim Copeland. Both members support the ability of unions to organize and resigned in opposition to not only the legislation, but specifically in opposition to Speaker O’Brien’s anti-labor and anti-worker agenda.
By delaying the vote the Speaker is alienating members of the both the Democratic and Republican parties who want to ensure that labor unions are protected. If other Republicans, like Quandt and Copeland, are willing to stand up for labor unions, than Speaker O’Brien needs to stand up as well, and schedule a vote. Without a vote, workers in the state of New Hampshire will lose the voice that advocates for their rights.
Speaker O’Brien must stop delaying and stop making excuses and give labor unions a fighting chance.
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Breaking the Debt Ceiling
Congress is set to vote over the course of the next two days on a clean vote to raise the national debt ceiling. It is essential that this vote pass. By raising the debt ceiling Congress ensures that the country continues to have the resources necessary to maintain spending for programs like Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid.
Unfortunately Republicans say they will only vote in favor of increasing the debt ceiling if the vote is accompanied by an agreement to cut almost $2 trillion in spending. These same Republicans, however, admit the debt ceiling needs to be increased. Refusing to vote in favor of this raise unless they get their cuts is political blackmail, Republicans are playing politics with spending that will directly impact the financial security of the American people. If the debt ceiling is not raised soon, seniors could see a significant decrease, or even a disappearance, in their Social Security checks, military troops could go without pay, and the economy could fall back into recession.
Democrats cannot give-in to the Republican’s blackmail. They must do what is right and vote yes to protect important programs like Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security.
Click Here to find your Representative and Senators. Call them and tell them to raise the debt ceiling without making devastating cuts to vital programs, because it’s the right thing to do.
Unfortunately Republicans say they will only vote in favor of increasing the debt ceiling if the vote is accompanied by an agreement to cut almost $2 trillion in spending. These same Republicans, however, admit the debt ceiling needs to be increased. Refusing to vote in favor of this raise unless they get their cuts is political blackmail, Republicans are playing politics with spending that will directly impact the financial security of the American people. If the debt ceiling is not raised soon, seniors could see a significant decrease, or even a disappearance, in their Social Security checks, military troops could go without pay, and the economy could fall back into recession.
Democrats cannot give-in to the Republican’s blackmail. They must do what is right and vote yes to protect important programs like Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security.
Click Here to find your Representative and Senators. Call them and tell them to raise the debt ceiling without making devastating cuts to vital programs, because it’s the right thing to do.
Monday, May 16, 2011
Draft D-Day
Today was “Debt D-day” as the United States reached its $14.3 trillion dollar debt ceiling, and now, the nation confronts the possibility of default unless political parties negotiate spending cuts or agree to raise the debt ceiling. With the looming threat of a double dip recession, Treasury Secretary Geithner strongly advises the latter, “I have written to Congress on previous occasions regarding the importance of timely action to increase the debt limit in order to protect the full faith and credit of the United States and avoid catastrophic economic consequences for citizens. I again urge Congress to act to increase the statutory debt limit as soon as possible”. Raising the debt ceiling is necessary to preserve national credit, maintain stability in the global market, and avoid default-induced high interest rates that would only lead the economy into a deeper hole. It is a measure that the Treasury advises, the Obama administration supports, and many House and Senate Democrats rally behind.
Unfortunately, Republicans view the possibility of full-blown economic crisis as an opportunity to advance their own agenda. They recognize the urgency of this situation and hope to pressure Democrats into extreme cuts in necessary social programs. As The Atlantic columnist David Indiviglio states, “Republicans will inevitably vote to raise it (the debt ceiling), but they're using the necessity of doing so as a bargaining chip for broader spending cuts in the name of deficit reform”. Representative Paul Ryan’s (WI-1) spending cuts are the driving force of these Republican efforts. His budget proposal transforms Medicare and Medicaid from a direct payment system into a combined voucher and state grant system, an overhaul that only hurts seniors and the nation’s poor. Although bipartisan budget cuts are absolutely necessary, extreme attacks on social programs are unacceptable when oil companies and the wealthy receive billion dollar tax breaks. Democrats must not sacrifice the progressive gains of the past fifty years in the heat of the moment, and they cannot concede to short term pressure that would yield long term consequences.
Friday, May 13, 2011
Draft Russ Feingold
Senator Herb Kohl of Wisconsin has announced his retirement and there’s one big question we need answered. Who’s the best person to run for this seat in 2012? The answer is simple, Russ Feingold.
We need Russ Feingold in the Senate. We’ve seen the disaster that has come from the Republican majority in the House. Medicare and Medicaid under attack and they’re threatening to privatize Social Security. They’ve attacked workers and the unemployed while protecting subsidies for big oil and tax breaks for the wealthy.
Russ Feingold is a true progressive leader. He’s worked hard to protect the middle-class by protecting workers rights. He’s fought for our seniors by protecting Medicare and Social Security. He’s fought for affordable health care by supporting single payer health insurance.
And there’s no one better on the issue of campaign finance reform then Russ Feingold. We’ve seen what happens when corporations and wealthy CEOs are able to pour tens of millions of dollars into campaigns. We need leaders like you who will fight to end Citizens United and corporate influence in our elections.
We need Russ Feingold. Sign our petition to draft Russ Feingold today. We’ll be sending him this petition to show him how important it is that he runs for Senate in 2012. Add your name today and show your support.
Click Here to sign our petition to Draft Russ Feingold for 2012.
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
Not So Fast
Despite overwhelming public opposition to Senate Bill 5, Ohio Governor John Kasich signed it into law. Not only does this bill outlaw the right to strike for over 360,000 Ohio state employees such as teachers, police officers, and firefighters, but it prohibits teachers from collectively bargaining and severely limits this right for many other public employees. This is not the end of the fight against this union-busting bill, it’s just the beginning.
Opponents of SB5 have vowed to put a referendum on the ballot in November to kill this bill. They have until June 30 to collect 231,149 signatures to add the referendum to the ballot in November.
We have a great chance to strike down this union-busting legislation that was passed against the voters’ wishes. This referendum is the only way the people of Ohio can make their voices heard. It is vital that enough signatures are gathered and this referendum is placed on the ballot on November 8.
21st Century Democrats supports the efforts of those in Ohio fighting to show Governor Kasich and Republicans across the country that if they try to force radical legislation against the will of the people, the people can and will fight back.
This Saturday, April 9 at 12:00pm, the Ohio Democratic Party is hosting an SB5 Repeal Kick-Off Party in Columbus. This is a great way to begin the repeal of this extreme law.
Click here to for more information or to sign up for the Party
Opponents of SB5 have vowed to put a referendum on the ballot in November to kill this bill. They have until June 30 to collect 231,149 signatures to add the referendum to the ballot in November.
We have a great chance to strike down this union-busting legislation that was passed against the voters’ wishes. This referendum is the only way the people of Ohio can make their voices heard. It is vital that enough signatures are gathered and this referendum is placed on the ballot on November 8.
21st Century Democrats supports the efforts of those in Ohio fighting to show Governor Kasich and Republicans across the country that if they try to force radical legislation against the will of the people, the people can and will fight back.
This Saturday, April 9 at 12:00pm, the Ohio Democratic Party is hosting an SB5 Repeal Kick-Off Party in Columbus. This is a great way to begin the repeal of this extreme law.
Click here to for more information or to sign up for the Party
Monday, March 7, 2011
More Bad News for Walker
Even though recent polls continue to show disapproval for Gov. Walker and an increase in support for unions and collective bargaining, Wisconsin Republicans still refuse to negotiate amendments to the pending anti-union legislation. According to a recent NBC/ Wall Street Journal Poll, only 33% of those surveyed found it acceptable to “Eliminate public employees’ right to collectively bargain over health care, pensions, and other benefits when negotiating a union contact” while and overwhelming 62% found this unacceptable. Support for Gov. Walker has significantly decreased as a result of his recent union-busting initiative. According to polls taken by the Wisconsin Policy Research Institute, 53% of those surveyed have a negative view of the Governor while this percentage was only 35% in November. These numbers prove that Gov. Walker’s plans to take away collective bargaining rights are clearly not a reflection of what his constituency wants, and as this scheme continues, the Republicans in Wisconsin just continue to lose more support.
Despite recent rumors that the 14 Democratic senators will return to Wisconsin and vote on the current version if the bill, these senators have made it very clear that they refuse to return until acceptable negotiations are made. After an article in the Wall Street Journal reported that the senators would soon return to Madison, Sen. Chris Larson quickly refuted that idea, stating that the quote by Minority Leader Mark Miller that the WSJ reporter used to make such a claim was completely taken out of context. According to Sen. Larson, “Dems will return when collective bargaining is off the table. That could be soon based on the growing public opposition to the bill and the recall efforts against Republicans.” 21st Century Democrats continues to support the “Wisconsin 14” and we commend the efforts of Democratic leaders all over the country who are fighting to preserve the right to collectively bargain and sustain the necessary power of unions in the workplace.
Despite recent rumors that the 14 Democratic senators will return to Wisconsin and vote on the current version if the bill, these senators have made it very clear that they refuse to return until acceptable negotiations are made. After an article in the Wall Street Journal reported that the senators would soon return to Madison, Sen. Chris Larson quickly refuted that idea, stating that the quote by Minority Leader Mark Miller that the WSJ reporter used to make such a claim was completely taken out of context. According to Sen. Larson, “Dems will return when collective bargaining is off the table. That could be soon based on the growing public opposition to the bill and the recall efforts against Republicans.” 21st Century Democrats continues to support the “Wisconsin 14” and we commend the efforts of Democratic leaders all over the country who are fighting to preserve the right to collectively bargain and sustain the necessary power of unions in the workplace.
Thursday, March 3, 2011
Too Far
Earlier today Wisconsin Senate Republicans passed a resolution that gave the 14 Democratic senators who fled the state an ultimatum: return to the senate floor by 4:00 pm today or they would be held in contempt. This ultimatum gave the Sergeant at Arms the authority to "take any and all necessary steps, with or without force” in order to bring the Democratic senators back to Wisconsin so the senate would have quorum and the Republicans could pass their union-busting legislation.
This time the Republicans have gone way too far. According to the state Constitution, lawmakers are prohibited from being arrested while the legislature is in session, except for “treason, felony and breach of the peace.” Fleeing the state in an attempt to negotiate with Republican leaders and to avoid passing legislation that would drastically hurt thousands of workers does not constitute treason, a felony, or a breach of the peace. The Republicans have simply ignored their state’s Constitution and have clearly over-reached their authority in passing this resolution.
This time the Republicans have gone way too far. According to the state Constitution, lawmakers are prohibited from being arrested while the legislature is in session, except for “treason, felony and breach of the peace.” Fleeing the state in an attempt to negotiate with Republican leaders and to avoid passing legislation that would drastically hurt thousands of workers does not constitute treason, a felony, or a breach of the peace. The Republicans have simply ignored their state’s Constitution and have clearly over-reached their authority in passing this resolution.
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