Watch Jim McDermott rip Paul Ryan during House sit-in: ‘He’s up in his office crying’
"Rep. Jim McDermott (D-WA) mocked House Speaker Paul Ryan (R-WI) in the midst of a Democratic Party protest against legislative inaction on gun safety proposals."
Wednesday, June 22, 2016
Something amazing is happening on C-SPAN...and something else amazing just happened on Facebook.
http://www.dailykos.com/stories/2016/6/22/1541518/-Something-amazing-is-happening-on-C-SPAN-and-something-else-amazing-just-happened-on-Facebook
"If you’re not watching C-SPAN right now, you’re missing something special. But aside from that, an old friend of mine just posted the following on his Facebook page"
"If you’re not watching C-SPAN right now, you’re missing something special. But aside from that, an old friend of mine just posted the following on his Facebook page"
Breaking: House Re-Reconvened. Chaos. Deafening Shouts of "Shame", "No Bill, No Break".
http://www.dailykos.com/stories/2016/6/22/1541513/-Breaking-House-to-Reconvene-at-10-p-m
"Over the last hour, more and more DC residents have been coming out to the mall in front of the capitol to support Democrats protesting inside."
"Over the last hour, more and more DC residents have been coming out to the mall in front of the capitol to support Democrats protesting inside."
C-SPAN Democratic Sit-in Over Gun Violence Continues WATCH LIVE
http://www.c-span.org/video/?411624-1/democratic-sitin-gun-violence-continues&live=
"Democratic Sit-in Over Gun Violence Continues Democrats resume their day-long sit-in, which began at 11:25 a.m. ET in an effort to force a vote on gun control legislation. Coverage of the floor is being provided by members' Periscope and Facebook feeds."
"Democratic Sit-in Over Gun Violence Continues Democrats resume their day-long sit-in, which began at 11:25 a.m. ET in an effort to force a vote on gun control legislation. Coverage of the floor is being provided by members' Periscope and Facebook feeds."
C-SPAN Fights Back Against Paul Ryan Blackout And Shows Live Video of Democratic Protest
http://www.politicususa.com/2016/06/22/c-span-fights-paul-ryan-blackout-shows-live-video-democratic-protest.html
"Speaker Ryan made a huge mistake by trying to black out the protest. As soon as Ryan turned off C-SPAN’s cameras on the House floor, interest in the protest grew exponentially."
"Speaker Ryan made a huge mistake by trying to black out the protest. As soon as Ryan turned off C-SPAN’s cameras on the House floor, interest in the protest grew exponentially."
House Republicans gavel in—over shouting of Democrats—for failed vote
http://www.dailykos.com/stories/2016/6/22/1541519/-House-Republicans-gavel-in-over-shouting-of-Democrats
"In case you missed it—Republicans decided it was urgent to overturn a new Labor Department rule that essentially says, if you have a financial adviser, they have to act in your best interest. So over the shouts of Democrats—“No Bill, No Break!”—Paul Ryan gaveled in to take the vote. Really? That's what they chose to go to bat for? Democrats have spent ten-plus hours on the House floor trying to get a vote on gun safety measures, and this is where Republicans make their stand?? Yep. Wall Street hates that rule—they want free rein to swindle their clients—and the GOP went to bat for them. (P.S. Obama vetoed the GOP effort to roll back the rule earlier this month.) After all that, the GOP effort to override Obama’s veto FAILED: Yeas 239, Nays 180. They didn’t meet the 2/3 threshold. So the House GOP made its stand for Wall Street… and failed. Who are these jokers?!"
"In case you missed it—Republicans decided it was urgent to overturn a new Labor Department rule that essentially says, if you have a financial adviser, they have to act in your best interest. So over the shouts of Democrats—“No Bill, No Break!”—Paul Ryan gaveled in to take the vote. Really? That's what they chose to go to bat for? Democrats have spent ten-plus hours on the House floor trying to get a vote on gun safety measures, and this is where Republicans make their stand?? Yep. Wall Street hates that rule—they want free rein to swindle their clients—and the GOP went to bat for them. (P.S. Obama vetoed the GOP effort to roll back the rule earlier this month.) After all that, the GOP effort to override Obama’s veto FAILED: Yeas 239, Nays 180. They didn’t meet the 2/3 threshold. So the House GOP made its stand for Wall Street… and failed. Who are these jokers?!"
Paul Ryan Cuts Off C-SPAN Cameras To Blackout Democratic Gun Protest House Shutdown
http://www.politicususa.com/2016/06/22/paul-ryan-cuts-c-span-cameras-blackout-democratic-gun-protest-house-shutdown.html
"Speaker Ryan responded to the Democratic protest demanding a vote on gun control legislation in the most undemocratic way possible. Ryan cut off the cameras so that the world could not see what House Democrats are doing. The cutting off of cameras is something that happens in authoritarian regimes. It should not happen in the United States of America. Ryan pulled the move of a small, cowardly dictator. Speaker Ryan supports Donald Trump, because, at heart, they have so much in common. Paul Ryan had a chance to live up to his principled rhetoric, but when push came to shove, Speaker Ryan cut off the cameras and got on his knees for the NRA."
"Speaker Ryan responded to the Democratic protest demanding a vote on gun control legislation in the most undemocratic way possible. Ryan cut off the cameras so that the world could not see what House Democrats are doing. The cutting off of cameras is something that happens in authoritarian regimes. It should not happen in the United States of America. Ryan pulled the move of a small, cowardly dictator. Speaker Ryan supports Donald Trump, because, at heart, they have so much in common. Paul Ryan had a chance to live up to his principled rhetoric, but when push came to shove, Speaker Ryan cut off the cameras and got on his knees for the NRA."
Colbert: 'The Gloves Are Off' On The NRA-Owned Senate
Colbert: 'The Gloves Are Off' On The NRA-Owned Senate
"After his monologue, he explained that we all have a job to do. You know he does his job, it's all on camera. He wants to know exactly WHAT the Senate does, since we've hardly seen anything accomplished on the very important issue of gun violence in America."
"After his monologue, he explained that we all have a job to do. You know he does his job, it's all on camera. He wants to know exactly WHAT the Senate does, since we've hardly seen anything accomplished on the very important issue of gun violence in America."
BREAKING: Dems Hold Sit-In On House Floor After GOPers Vote To Go To Lunch Instead Of Gun Bill
http://addictinginfo.org/2016/06/22/breaking-dems-hold-sit-in-on-house-floor-after-gopers-vote-to-go-to-lunch-instead-of-gun-bill/
"If forced to actually hold a vote on gun control, Republicans have made it clear that they would rather flee the building than do their jobs."
"If forced to actually hold a vote on gun control, Republicans have made it clear that they would rather flee the building than do their jobs."
House Republicans Shut Off Cameras After Democrats Start Sit-In For Gun Control
http://thinkprogress.org/politics/2016/06/22/3791275/sit-in-gun-control/
"Ryan, the leader of the Republican majority in the House, responded by ordering the House break for lunch, shutting off the cameras and effectively making the session closed to the press."
"Ryan, the leader of the Republican majority in the House, responded by ordering the House break for lunch, shutting off the cameras and effectively making the session closed to the press."
House Republicans just turned the cameras off so you can’t see an anti-gun violence sit-in
House Republicans just turned the cameras off so you can’t see an anti-gun violence sit-in
"Republicans shut down cameras inside the U.S. House of Representatives to prevent Americans from seeing a sit-in by the Democratic colleagues to force a vote on gun control."
"Republicans shut down cameras inside the U.S. House of Representatives to prevent Americans from seeing a sit-in by the Democratic colleagues to force a vote on gun control."
Sunday, June 19, 2016
'We’re Officially Living in a New World': Antarctica Hits Highest CO2 Level in 4 Million Years @alternet
'We’re Officially Living in a New World': Antarctica Hits Highest CO2 Level in 4 Million Years @alternet:
"Earth's most remote continent has officially caught up to the rest of the planet. That spells disaster for us all."
"Earth's most remote continent has officially caught up to the rest of the planet. That spells disaster for us all."
Paul Krugman Nails the GOP for Being the Party of Con Men—Just Like Trump @alternet
Paul Krugman Nails the GOP for Being the Party of Con Men—Just Like Trump @alternet:
"Or what about the con that Paul Ryan is currently performing, Krugman asks. Making the repeal of the "so-called 'fiduciary rule' for retirement advisers, a new rule requiring that they serve the interests of their clients, and not receive kickbacks for steering them into bad investments," part of his so called “anti-poverty plan.” Let's face it, the party that wants to defend the right of financial advisors to rip off clients is, well, the party of grift. Trump is a perfect reflection of the party's values, no matter what they say, which is why, Krugman concludes, they were powerless to stop him."
"Or what about the con that Paul Ryan is currently performing, Krugman asks. Making the repeal of the "so-called 'fiduciary rule' for retirement advisers, a new rule requiring that they serve the interests of their clients, and not receive kickbacks for steering them into bad investments," part of his so called “anti-poverty plan.” Let's face it, the party that wants to defend the right of financial advisors to rip off clients is, well, the party of grift. Trump is a perfect reflection of the party's values, no matter what they say, which is why, Krugman concludes, they were powerless to stop him."
ABC Decides Maybe It’s Best To Not Feature A Hate Group Leader Discussing The Orlando Shooting
http://thinkprogress.org/lgbt/2016/06/19/3790189/abc-tony-perkins-orlando/
"This week, a prominent news agency considered offering a platform to the leader of an anti-LGBT hate group to discuss the Orlando shooting, then quietly dropped him from the show without ever mentioning that it was a bad idea in the first place. On Friday morning, ABC News released a preview of its guest line-up for This Week, its Sunday morning political talk show. Among those listed to join the “Powerhouse Roundtable” was Tony Perkins, president of the Family Research Council (FRC). FRC has long been identified by the Southern Poverty Law Center as a prominent anti-LGBT hate-group, and Perkins himself has a notorious reputation for his anti-LGBT vitriol."
"This week, a prominent news agency considered offering a platform to the leader of an anti-LGBT hate group to discuss the Orlando shooting, then quietly dropped him from the show without ever mentioning that it was a bad idea in the first place. On Friday morning, ABC News released a preview of its guest line-up for This Week, its Sunday morning political talk show. Among those listed to join the “Powerhouse Roundtable” was Tony Perkins, president of the Family Research Council (FRC). FRC has long been identified by the Southern Poverty Law Center as a prominent anti-LGBT hate-group, and Perkins himself has a notorious reputation for his anti-LGBT vitriol."
Companies Bow Out Of Convention And Delegates Try To Change Party Rules To Dump Trump
http://thinkprogress.org/politics/2016/06/18/3790119/companies-delegates-reconsider-trump/
"A number of large companies have decided to stop or reduce their participation in or sponsorship of the Republican National Convention. The list of companies that aren’t sponsoring at all includes JP Morgan Chase, Wells Fargo, United Parcel Service, Motorola, and Walgreens Boots Alliance Inc, which all sponsored the last convention, Bloomberg reported. Although the tech giants Google, Microsoft, and Facebook will all be present at the convention, Apple decided to sit this one out, specifically citing Trump’s controversial rhetoric"
"A number of large companies have decided to stop or reduce their participation in or sponsorship of the Republican National Convention. The list of companies that aren’t sponsoring at all includes JP Morgan Chase, Wells Fargo, United Parcel Service, Motorola, and Walgreens Boots Alliance Inc, which all sponsored the last convention, Bloomberg reported. Although the tech giants Google, Microsoft, and Facebook will all be present at the convention, Apple decided to sit this one out, specifically citing Trump’s controversial rhetoric"
How does running a state like a business work? It doesn't stupid.
http://www.dailykos.com/stories/2016/6/15/1538892/-How-does-running-a-state-like-a-business-work-It-doesn-t-stupid
"Anyone who is looking at Trump should take a good hard look at Illinois and see how a state run like a business works"
"Anyone who is looking at Trump should take a good hard look at Illinois and see how a state run like a business works"
How Donald Trump Bankrupted His Atlantic City Casinos, but Still Earned Millions
http://www.nytimes.com/2016/06/12/nyregion/donald-trump-atlantic-city.html?_r=0
"During a decade when other casinos here thrived, Mr. Trump’s lagged, posting huge losses year after year. Stock and bondholders lost more than $1.5 billion."
"During a decade when other casinos here thrived, Mr. Trump’s lagged, posting huge losses year after year. Stock and bondholders lost more than $1.5 billion."
Donald Trump’s Negatives Hit Record Highs After Orlando Shooting
http://addictinginfo.org/2016/06/16/donald-trumps-negatives-hit-record-highs-after-orlando-shooting/
"Only 29 percent of Americans have a favorable view of Trump. Here’s the damage Trump has done to himself: 89 percent of Hispanics have unfavorable view of him 77 percent of women have an unfavorable view 75 percent of people under 40 have an unfavorable view 68 percent of Independents have an unfavorable view 53 percent of Non-college whites have an unfavorable view 52 percent of white men have an unfavorable view. Trump is even losing support from his biggest base of support: uneducated white men"
"Only 29 percent of Americans have a favorable view of Trump. Here’s the damage Trump has done to himself: 89 percent of Hispanics have unfavorable view of him 77 percent of women have an unfavorable view 75 percent of people under 40 have an unfavorable view 68 percent of Independents have an unfavorable view 53 percent of Non-college whites have an unfavorable view 52 percent of white men have an unfavorable view. Trump is even losing support from his biggest base of support: uneducated white men"
Most Women Are Crystal Clear About Trump: He Is Their Worst Nightmare @alternet
Most Women Are Crystal Clear About Trump: He Is Their Worst Nightmare @alternet:
"Trump has been at it for months on national television -- and no journalist, no politician, no Republican Party leader, no contender has named his behavior for what it is. Nobody has called him out—except in the public opinion polls where women voters, millions of whom know the tyrant’s playbook by heart, have spoken. And they said: no."
"Trump has been at it for months on national television -- and no journalist, no politician, no Republican Party leader, no contender has named his behavior for what it is. Nobody has called him out—except in the public opinion polls where women voters, millions of whom know the tyrant’s playbook by heart, have spoken. And they said: no."
Trump Has Broken The GOP As Republicans Hit Record Low Approval
http://www.politicususa.com/2016/06/15/republican-party-hits-lowest-polling-numbers-bloomberg-started-polling.html
"A scant thirty-two percent of Americans view the Republican Party favorably. The pollster suggested that this dip is due to Donald Trump’s presumptive nomination as the Republican Party’s presidential candidate. Pollster J. Ann Selzer explained, “This is obviously related to perceptions of Trump. This bleeds out into perceptions of the party and to other GOP politicians.” However, the now Republican-led Congress is also at its lowest since 2010, with “near bipartisan agreement” that Congress sucks. Forty-nine percent of Americans see the Democratic Party favorably. The poll found that Trump attracts voters who are looking for a “strong leader,” which is pretty ironic given that Trump is the most thin-skinned politician to come along since Sarah Palin, and even more vindictive than she is. (Trump recently banned the Washington Post from covering his campaign after they accurately reported that he had not given any money to the veterans, even though he claimed to have raised millions for them.) It is also ironic because Trump is a flip-flopper on issues. Today he is for the No Fly No Buy bill, which would stop known or suspected terrorists from buying a gun. Yesterday he was against it. Is Donald Trump single-handedly sinking the GOP? No. He is just the cherry on top of a very long and dedicated path to destruction and irrelevance. In fact, it makes more sense to say that Donald Trump is the proof that the party is losing it. This is who their base picked. Decades of Southern Strategy will do that to a party. As the nation becomes more diverse, the Republican Party has shriveled impotently into its misleading Archie (Bunker) comfort. And so Republicans find themselves at the bottom of the heap, led by a buffoon of a dictator who doesn’t even believe in basic American freedoms like the free press and constantly refers to members of minority groups as though they are objects; e.g., “Our African Americans”, “the gays” and of course, “dogs” and “pigs” for women who don’t please him."
"A scant thirty-two percent of Americans view the Republican Party favorably. The pollster suggested that this dip is due to Donald Trump’s presumptive nomination as the Republican Party’s presidential candidate. Pollster J. Ann Selzer explained, “This is obviously related to perceptions of Trump. This bleeds out into perceptions of the party and to other GOP politicians.” However, the now Republican-led Congress is also at its lowest since 2010, with “near bipartisan agreement” that Congress sucks. Forty-nine percent of Americans see the Democratic Party favorably. The poll found that Trump attracts voters who are looking for a “strong leader,” which is pretty ironic given that Trump is the most thin-skinned politician to come along since Sarah Palin, and even more vindictive than she is. (Trump recently banned the Washington Post from covering his campaign after they accurately reported that he had not given any money to the veterans, even though he claimed to have raised millions for them.) It is also ironic because Trump is a flip-flopper on issues. Today he is for the No Fly No Buy bill, which would stop known or suspected terrorists from buying a gun. Yesterday he was against it. Is Donald Trump single-handedly sinking the GOP? No. He is just the cherry on top of a very long and dedicated path to destruction and irrelevance. In fact, it makes more sense to say that Donald Trump is the proof that the party is losing it. This is who their base picked. Decades of Southern Strategy will do that to a party. As the nation becomes more diverse, the Republican Party has shriveled impotently into its misleading Archie (Bunker) comfort. And so Republicans find themselves at the bottom of the heap, led by a buffoon of a dictator who doesn’t even believe in basic American freedoms like the free press and constantly refers to members of minority groups as though they are objects; e.g., “Our African Americans”, “the gays” and of course, “dogs” and “pigs” for women who don’t please him."
Pam Bondi lashes out at Anderson Cooper — who forced her to own up to years of anti-LGBT action
Pam Bondi lashes out at Anderson Cooper — who forced her to own up to years of anti-LGBT action
"Bondi’s office argued in 2014 that forcing Florida to recognize same-sex marriages from other states would “impose significant public harm.” She made it a key component of her reelection campaign as well."
"Bondi’s office argued in 2014 that forcing Florida to recognize same-sex marriages from other states would “impose significant public harm.” She made it a key component of her reelection campaign as well."
Donald Trump flippantly says #AskTheGays — only to get roasted on Twitter
Donald Trump flippantly says #AskTheGays — only to get roasted on Twitter
"Donald Trump’s attempt to paint himself as an ally to LGBT communities was rejected on Wednesday in the bluntest terms possible thanks to the #AskTheGays tag."
"Donald Trump’s attempt to paint himself as an ally to LGBT communities was rejected on Wednesday in the bluntest terms possible thanks to the #AskTheGays tag."
The Religious Right's Crocodile Tears Over Orlando Shooting @alternet
The Religious Right's Crocodile Tears Over Orlando Shooting @alternet:
"As the LGBT and Latino communities mourned, right-wing religionists pounced to exploit the moment."
"As the LGBT and Latino communities mourned, right-wing religionists pounced to exploit the moment."
WATCH: Anderson Cooper nails gay-bashing Florida AG for her hypocritical embrace of LGBT community
WATCH: Anderson Cooper nails gay-bashing Florida AG for her hypocritical embrace of LGBT community
"In reality, of course, Bondi’s office argued that forcing Florida to recognize out-of-state same-sex marriages in 2014 would “impose significant public harm” and Bondi made her fight against gay marriage a key issue in her reelection campaign."
"In reality, of course, Bondi’s office argued that forcing Florida to recognize out-of-state same-sex marriages in 2014 would “impose significant public harm” and Bondi made her fight against gay marriage a key issue in her reelection campaign."
Quote of the Day: Yes, Republicans, You Have To Answer for Donald Trump
http://thedailybanter.com/2016/06/qotd-gop-has-to-answer-for-trump/
"No wonder Republicans are sh*tting themselves right now. And make no mistake: that's exactly what they're doing. Iowa Senator and perennial threat to pig testicles everywhere Joni Ernst had to brush off questions about Trump's behavior. "My own personal feeling, I am very sympathetic and want to express my condolences to those family members," she said. "But I can't speak for Donald Trump." Meanwhile, according to Talking Points Memo, Mississippi Senator Roger Wicker deflected, saying he hadn't "had a chance" to evaluate Trump's comments. "I expect the president will not resign," he added, commenting on Trump's attack on Barack Obama he just said he hadn't had the chance to evaluate yet. Keep in mind that all these people -- all these morally bankrupt monsters -- have backed Trump in his push for the White House. Hell, John Cornyn's conversion to a Trump evangelist was so conspicuous that it was the basis for an entire CNN segment. Trump is their guy. They've bet it all on him because they put the desire for partisan power over the health and safety of the entire country. Under no circumstances should they be able to wiggle out of the fix they're now in as Trump shames and debases himself and the Republican party further and further. They deserve to go down with him."
"No wonder Republicans are sh*tting themselves right now. And make no mistake: that's exactly what they're doing. Iowa Senator and perennial threat to pig testicles everywhere Joni Ernst had to brush off questions about Trump's behavior. "My own personal feeling, I am very sympathetic and want to express my condolences to those family members," she said. "But I can't speak for Donald Trump." Meanwhile, according to Talking Points Memo, Mississippi Senator Roger Wicker deflected, saying he hadn't "had a chance" to evaluate Trump's comments. "I expect the president will not resign," he added, commenting on Trump's attack on Barack Obama he just said he hadn't had the chance to evaluate yet. Keep in mind that all these people -- all these morally bankrupt monsters -- have backed Trump in his push for the White House. Hell, John Cornyn's conversion to a Trump evangelist was so conspicuous that it was the basis for an entire CNN segment. Trump is their guy. They've bet it all on him because they put the desire for partisan power over the health and safety of the entire country. Under no circumstances should they be able to wiggle out of the fix they're now in as Trump shames and debases himself and the Republican party further and further. They deserve to go down with him."
Seth Meyers smashes Trump’s racist lies: ‘We cannot allow this to become normalized’
Seth Meyers smashes Trump’s racist lies: ‘We cannot allow this to become normalized’
"Just when you thought Donald Trump couldn’t possibly get worse, he did. The RNC reportedly told Trump to give condolences and then shut up, but that was clearly ignored. Now, Republicans are quickly understanding that anything would have been better than what Trump has said in the wake of the Orlando shooting."
"Just when you thought Donald Trump couldn’t possibly get worse, he did. The RNC reportedly told Trump to give condolences and then shut up, but that was clearly ignored. Now, Republicans are quickly understanding that anything would have been better than what Trump has said in the wake of the Orlando shooting."
Thank you, Stephen Colbert: He perfectly explains Trump’s Orlando response with one simple diagram
Thank you, Stephen Colbert: He perfectly explains Trump’s Orlando response with one simple diagram
"Stephen Colbert last night reduced GOP nominee Donald Trump’s self-congratulatory response to the weekend’s mass shooting in Orlando to a simple diagram."
"Stephen Colbert last night reduced GOP nominee Donald Trump’s self-congratulatory response to the weekend’s mass shooting in Orlando to a simple diagram."
Trump’s campaign of innuendo: Like many Republicans before him, Trump’s arguing through insinuation
Trump’s campaign of innuendo: Like many Republicans before him, Trump’s arguing through insinuation
"The main difference between Trump’s rhetoric and the standard issue Republican rhetoric is that Trump is less artful and more ham-fisted. He just isn’t as good as most at playing the “who, me?” game, and it’s made worse because he flies into a defensive rage when his efforts at pretending he’s not saying what he’s saying fail. This inability to be subtle about his bigotry has helped him win over huge sectors of the conservative base, who increasingly conflate Republican efforts at plausible deniability with kow-towing to “political correctness”, but it makes him seem like an artless buffoon to everyone else. But make no mistake, just because he’s bad at it doesn’t mean Trump isn’t trying to play the same game as many Republicans before him."
"The main difference between Trump’s rhetoric and the standard issue Republican rhetoric is that Trump is less artful and more ham-fisted. He just isn’t as good as most at playing the “who, me?” game, and it’s made worse because he flies into a defensive rage when his efforts at pretending he’s not saying what he’s saying fail. This inability to be subtle about his bigotry has helped him win over huge sectors of the conservative base, who increasingly conflate Republican efforts at plausible deniability with kow-towing to “political correctness”, but it makes him seem like an artless buffoon to everyone else. But make no mistake, just because he’s bad at it doesn’t mean Trump isn’t trying to play the same game as many Republicans before him."
Trump's Disgusting Attacks on Obama: His Smears Are Right out of Roy Cohn's Playbook @alternet
Trump's Disgusting Attacks on Obama: His Smears Are Right out of Roy Cohn's Playbook @alternet:
"One can certainly see the echoes of McCarthy in Trump’s comments yesterday. Suggesting that the president is colluding with terrorists (if not worse) is right out of the Roy Cohn playbook. Cohn and McCarthy weren’t the only ones however. This particular strain of right wing thought — the idea that the government had been infiltrated by America’s enemies — was held by many people during that era, famously including Robert Welch, founder of the John Birch Society"
"One can certainly see the echoes of McCarthy in Trump’s comments yesterday. Suggesting that the president is colluding with terrorists (if not worse) is right out of the Roy Cohn playbook. Cohn and McCarthy weren’t the only ones however. This particular strain of right wing thought — the idea that the government had been infiltrated by America’s enemies — was held by many people during that era, famously including Robert Welch, founder of the John Birch Society"
GOP insiders fear Trump will doom congressional candidates: ‘They’re going to be covered in gore’
GOP insiders fear Trump will doom congressional candidates: ‘They’re going to be covered in gore’
"Republicans are terrified that Donald Trump will have a gruesome effect on congressional candidates in what they increasingly believe will be a historic electoral defeat."
"Republicans are terrified that Donald Trump will have a gruesome effect on congressional candidates in what they increasingly believe will be a historic electoral defeat."
Insinuation, Conspiracy, Delusion: Welcome to the 'Truth' According to Donald Trump @alternet
Insinuation, Conspiracy, Delusion: Welcome to the 'Truth' According to Donald Trump @alternet:
"Untruths that passed unchallenged as run-of-the-mill Republican rhetoric during the primaries have now slipped into what the media scholar Daniel Hallin has called “the sphere of legitimate controversy.” Reporters are not so fearful of highlighting and challenging Trump’s steady assaults on truth. Investigative reports are catching up with his past of deception, greed and fraud."
"Untruths that passed unchallenged as run-of-the-mill Republican rhetoric during the primaries have now slipped into what the media scholar Daniel Hallin has called “the sphere of legitimate controversy.” Reporters are not so fearful of highlighting and challenging Trump’s steady assaults on truth. Investigative reports are catching up with his past of deception, greed and fraud."
Friday, June 17, 2016
Donald Trump’s Four Decades Of Racism
Donald Trump’s Four Decades Of Racism:
"Trump’s racist supporters also include Nazis, white supremacists like Richard Spencer, and even secessionists such as Michael Hill. In truth, Trump has spent his entire adult life consorting and befriending racists."
"Trump’s racist supporters also include Nazis, white supremacists like Richard Spencer, and even secessionists such as Michael Hill. In truth, Trump has spent his entire adult life consorting and befriending racists."
Meet the shock troops of Trump’s America
Meet the shock troops of Trump’s America
"The Students for Trump members are children of the Internet and molded by raw ideology. They find each other online, have a megaphone in Infowars and Breitbart.com, are versed in alt-right memes, and some cruise dark digital recesses like subreddits that are “a worse black hole of violent racism than Stormfront,” and 4chan, notorious as an incubator of violent misogyny. Some in Students for Trump delight in spreading the 14/88 meme, too. The former refers to the 14-word-long white supremacist slogan, “We must secure the existence of our people and a future for white children,” the latter is code for “Heil Hitler” as H is the eighth letter of the alphabet."
"The Students for Trump members are children of the Internet and molded by raw ideology. They find each other online, have a megaphone in Infowars and Breitbart.com, are versed in alt-right memes, and some cruise dark digital recesses like subreddits that are “a worse black hole of violent racism than Stormfront,” and 4chan, notorious as an incubator of violent misogyny. Some in Students for Trump delight in spreading the 14/88 meme, too. The former refers to the 14-word-long white supremacist slogan, “We must secure the existence of our people and a future for white children,” the latter is code for “Heil Hitler” as H is the eighth letter of the alphabet."
Wednesday, June 15, 2016
Ken Burns Warns Stanford Graduates To Make Donald's Defeat Their Top Priority
Ken Burns Warns Stanford Graduates To Make Donald's Defeat Their Top Priority
"Filmmaker and historian Ken Burns took to the podium at Stanford University's commencement this weekend to warn graduates of the impending threat Donald Trump poses to the American experiment, and he did not mince words."
"Filmmaker and historian Ken Burns took to the podium at Stanford University's commencement this weekend to warn graduates of the impending threat Donald Trump poses to the American experiment, and he did not mince words."
Hypocrisy for Orlando: Republicans Condemned for Fomenting Anti-Gay Hate
Hypocrisy for Orlando: Republicans Condemned for Fomenting Anti-Gay Hate
"Republican National Committee chairman Reince Preibus, who responded to the Supreme Court's decision legalizing same-sex marriage by warning that marriage equality would threaten national security and the economy, also tweeted his sympathy for the victims Other such anti-gay politicians expressing sympathy for the LGBTQ victims of the attack included West Virginia Sen. Shelley Moore Capito, who has voted against legislation that would protect gay people from job discrimination and for a constitutional amendment barring gay marriage; Florida Gov. Rick Scott, who fought to preserve the state's gay marriage ban; and Florida Sen. Marco Rubio, who has raised money for a backer of anti-gay "conversion therapy," opposed gay marriage, and generally battled LGBTQ rights at every turn, according to the Human Rights Campaign."
"Republican National Committee chairman Reince Preibus, who responded to the Supreme Court's decision legalizing same-sex marriage by warning that marriage equality would threaten national security and the economy, also tweeted his sympathy for the victims Other such anti-gay politicians expressing sympathy for the LGBTQ victims of the attack included West Virginia Sen. Shelley Moore Capito, who has voted against legislation that would protect gay people from job discrimination and for a constitutional amendment barring gay marriage; Florida Gov. Rick Scott, who fought to preserve the state's gay marriage ban; and Florida Sen. Marco Rubio, who has raised money for a backer of anti-gay "conversion therapy," opposed gay marriage, and generally battled LGBTQ rights at every turn, according to the Human Rights Campaign."
Donald Trump Is Officially an American Nightmare
http://thedailybanter.com/2016/06/trump-orlando-american-nightmare/
"Maybe more than any single period of time, the last two days have shown us in an unqualified way not only how thoroughly unfit for any elected office, let alone the presidency, Trump is, but nearly every single reason why this is. We've seen examples of his gargantuan megalomania, his denial of compassion for others, his volatility and petulance as a response to stress, his pathological lying and lack of command of the basic facts, his bigotry, his conspiratorial bent, and his petty authoritarianism and disdain for the very freedoms this country was founded on. His response to Orlando has been so calamitous, in fact, that it's hard not to wonder whether he really is trying to purposely throw the election so he can go back to his easy life -- the life he had before he somehow wound up being the Republican nominee for president."
"Maybe more than any single period of time, the last two days have shown us in an unqualified way not only how thoroughly unfit for any elected office, let alone the presidency, Trump is, but nearly every single reason why this is. We've seen examples of his gargantuan megalomania, his denial of compassion for others, his volatility and petulance as a response to stress, his pathological lying and lack of command of the basic facts, his bigotry, his conspiratorial bent, and his petty authoritarianism and disdain for the very freedoms this country was founded on. His response to Orlando has been so calamitous, in fact, that it's hard not to wonder whether he really is trying to purposely throw the election so he can go back to his easy life -- the life he had before he somehow wound up being the Republican nominee for president."
The birther candidate rears his ugly head: Donald Trump implies President Obama is a Muslim Manchurian candidate (again)
The birther candidate rears his ugly head: Donald Trump implies President Obama is a Muslim Manchurian candidate (again)
"Trump has already made clear who he is and what he stands for. Now Republicans will be forced, every day, to defend his statements"
"Trump has already made clear who he is and what he stands for. Now Republicans will be forced, every day, to defend his statements"
On Monday, Donald Trump Fully Embraced Fascism & Took the GOP With Him
On Monday, Donald Trump Fully Embraced Fascism & Took the GOP With Him
"For months people have accused Donald Trump of having fascist tendencies. The accusations are fairly valid considering the overall authoritarian tone of his campaign. This is someone who’s vilified entire groups of minorities, has more or less said he opposes the “freedom of the press,” bullies anyone who criticizes him and has used irrational, paranoid hate as one of the pillars of his campaign."
"For months people have accused Donald Trump of having fascist tendencies. The accusations are fairly valid considering the overall authoritarian tone of his campaign. This is someone who’s vilified entire groups of minorities, has more or less said he opposes the “freedom of the press,” bullies anyone who criticizes him and has used irrational, paranoid hate as one of the pillars of his campaign."
Jake Tapper Jumps On Trump After WaPo's Press Credential Yanked
Jake Tapper Jumps On Trump After WaPo's Press Credential Yanked
"Political scientist Lawrence Britt compiled a list of the 14 characteristics of Fascism. As we look at Donald Trump's candidacy, it is worth looking at this list to see how far along he is in the full transition.
"Political scientist Lawrence Britt compiled a list of the 14 characteristics of Fascism. As we look at Donald Trump's candidacy, it is worth looking at this list to see how far along he is in the full transition.
Ted Cruz, Who Attended Event Calling For Gays To Be Put To Death, Delivers Characteristically Smug Response To Orlando Attack
Ted Cruz, Who Attended Event Calling For Gays To Be Put To Death, Delivers Characteristically Smug Response To Orlando Attack:
"We wonder why Cruz himself didn’t display such heroism when he spoke at a conference late last year where the main speaker, Kevin Swanson, a long-time and notorious advocate of the government instituting the death penalty for gay people, said repeatedly on stage that the Bible calls for gays and lesbians to be put to death and argued that America should introduce capital punishment against unrepentant homosexuals once society is moved in that direction. That conference was also attended by Cruz’s father and his then-rivals Mike Huckabee and Bobby Jindal. The summit, called the National Religious Liberties Conference, even distributed literature calling for the death penalty for gay people and others, mentioning stoning and throwing people off cliffs as possible forms of executions. And yet now Ted Cruz has the gall to lecture liberals about the importance of showing “real courage" in the face of those who want to put gays to death."
"We wonder why Cruz himself didn’t display such heroism when he spoke at a conference late last year where the main speaker, Kevin Swanson, a long-time and notorious advocate of the government instituting the death penalty for gay people, said repeatedly on stage that the Bible calls for gays and lesbians to be put to death and argued that America should introduce capital punishment against unrepentant homosexuals once society is moved in that direction. That conference was also attended by Cruz’s father and his then-rivals Mike Huckabee and Bobby Jindal. The summit, called the National Religious Liberties Conference, even distributed literature calling for the death penalty for gay people and others, mentioning stoning and throwing people off cliffs as possible forms of executions. And yet now Ted Cruz has the gall to lecture liberals about the importance of showing “real courage" in the face of those who want to put gays to death."
Trump's Response to Orlando Shooting Should Be Disqualifying
http://www.rollingstone.com/politics/news/trumps-response-to-orlando-shooting-should-be-disqualifying-20160613
"Here's what's really going on, America: Donald Trump has shown us, in the wake of a hate crime, an act of terror and a national tragedy that his vision as a leader is clouded by narcissism and wingnuttery. And either one is unacceptable in the Oval Office."
"Here's what's really going on, America: Donald Trump has shown us, in the wake of a hate crime, an act of terror and a national tragedy that his vision as a leader is clouded by narcissism and wingnuttery. And either one is unacceptable in the Oval Office."
Donald Trump's Response to the Orlando Massacre is an Embarrassment to This Country
Donald Trump's Response to the Orlando Massacre is an Embarrassment to This Country
"Words cannot even begin to describe how important it is that we do not allow this bumbling idiot to become our next president."
"Words cannot even begin to describe how important it is that we do not allow this bumbling idiot to become our next president."
Alex Jones Blames The Orlando Massacre On The LGBT Community
Alex Jones Blames The Orlando Massacre On The LGBT Community:
"After describing the Orlando massacre as a false flag attack, Alex Jones said that the LGBT community is to blame for the deadly terrorist attack at the gay nightclub. Jones, a close ally of Donald Trump, was particularly angry that President Obama addressed the fact that the assault was directed at LGBT people, claiming that the community frequently hypes the threat of anti-LGBT violence in order to take control of the education system “so you can sexualize my children and indoctrinate them into your cult.” The “InfoWars” broadcaster accused LGBT and radical Islamic leaders of working together so they can promote pedophilia and abuse children. “No wonder the radical left is allied with Islam, they’re a bunch of perverts, they want access to our kids,” he said."
"After describing the Orlando massacre as a false flag attack, Alex Jones said that the LGBT community is to blame for the deadly terrorist attack at the gay nightclub. Jones, a close ally of Donald Trump, was particularly angry that President Obama addressed the fact that the assault was directed at LGBT people, claiming that the community frequently hypes the threat of anti-LGBT violence in order to take control of the education system “so you can sexualize my children and indoctrinate them into your cult.” The “InfoWars” broadcaster accused LGBT and radical Islamic leaders of working together so they can promote pedophilia and abuse children. “No wonder the radical left is allied with Islam, they’re a bunch of perverts, they want access to our kids,” he said."
Anti-LGBT Lawmakers Race To Condemn Islam While Ignoring Their Own Roles In Anti-LGBT Violence
http://thinkprogress.org/lgbt/2016/06/13/3787717/anti-lgbt-demagogues-blame-radical-islam/
"Last November, for example, anti-LGBT pastor Kevin Swanson convened a “National Religious Liberties Conference” and reiterated his longstanding belief that both the Old and New Testaments mandate that homosexuals be put to death. Present at the event were anti-LGBT stalwarts and then-Republican presidential hopefuls Mike Huckabee and Ted Cruz. Though Cruz’s campaign would months later called his attendance “a mistake,” his harsh anti-LGBT rhetoric continued as he criticized “New York values” like LGBT equality."
"Last November, for example, anti-LGBT pastor Kevin Swanson convened a “National Religious Liberties Conference” and reiterated his longstanding belief that both the Old and New Testaments mandate that homosexuals be put to death. Present at the event were anti-LGBT stalwarts and then-Republican presidential hopefuls Mike Huckabee and Ted Cruz. Though Cruz’s campaign would months later called his attendance “a mistake,” his harsh anti-LGBT rhetoric continued as he criticized “New York values” like LGBT equality."
World Landmarks Light Up In Glowing Tribute To Orlando Victims
http://new.www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/orlando-buildings-lit-for-orlando-shooting_us_575eaccee4b0e39a28ae0f87
"Dozens of world landmarks lit up in dazzling color to express solidarity and honor victims of the horrific mass shooting in an LGBT nightclub in Orlando on Saturday"
"Dozens of world landmarks lit up in dazzling color to express solidarity and honor victims of the horrific mass shooting in an LGBT nightclub in Orlando on Saturday"
The Lawmakers Offering Condolences For Orlando Shooting Victims Who Voted Against LGBT Protections
http://thinkprogress.org/economy/2016/06/13/3787664/lgbt-protection-orlando-shooting/
"Many more Congresspeople from Florida were offering their condolences in the wake of the massacre. Rep. Ron DeSantis (R) tweeted, "My thoughts & prayers are with the victims, families & people of Orlando" and called it a "barbaric terrorist attack." Rep. John Mica said in a statement, "The whole community is shocked and our thoughts and prayers go out to the victims and the families from these events." Rep. Gus Bilirakis (R) said he "mourn[s] the tragic loss of life," adding, "Orlando, we are all here for you." Rep. Dennis Ross (R) called it an "evil act" and added, "I ask all Americans to join me in prayer for the victims and their families." Rep. Vern Buchanan (R) tweeted, "Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families." Yet just last month, all of them were part of a group of 12 Florida Representatives who voted against an amendment that would have prohibited federal funds from going to contractors who discriminate against their employees on the basis of their sexual orientation or gender identity."
"Many more Congresspeople from Florida were offering their condolences in the wake of the massacre. Rep. Ron DeSantis (R) tweeted, "My thoughts & prayers are with the victims, families & people of Orlando" and called it a "barbaric terrorist attack." Rep. John Mica said in a statement, "The whole community is shocked and our thoughts and prayers go out to the victims and the families from these events." Rep. Gus Bilirakis (R) said he "mourn[s] the tragic loss of life," adding, "Orlando, we are all here for you." Rep. Dennis Ross (R) called it an "evil act" and added, "I ask all Americans to join me in prayer for the victims and their families." Rep. Vern Buchanan (R) tweeted, "Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families." Yet just last month, all of them were part of a group of 12 Florida Representatives who voted against an amendment that would have prohibited federal funds from going to contractors who discriminate against their employees on the basis of their sexual orientation or gender identity."
WATCH: Tony Awards Gives Hateful Bigots The Middle Finger In Opening Number
http://addictinginfo.org/2016/06/13/watch-tony-awards-gives-hateful-bigots-the-middle-finger-in-opening-number/
"Overwhelmed by the sadness of the mass shooting in Orlando, Florida where 50 people were killed, the 70th Annual Tony Awards and host James Corden sent a message to hateful bigots everywhere."
"Overwhelmed by the sadness of the mass shooting in Orlando, Florida where 50 people were killed, the 70th Annual Tony Awards and host James Corden sent a message to hateful bigots everywhere."
Alex Jones: Orlando Attack Was A False Flag
Alex Jones: Orlando Attack Was A False Flag:
"Jones, who claims that the government has been involved in other attacks like 9/11 and Oklahoma City, has been praised by Donald Trump, a past guest on his show, for having an “amazing” reputation."
"Jones, who claims that the government has been involved in other attacks like 9/11 and Oklahoma City, has been praised by Donald Trump, a past guest on his show, for having an “amazing” reputation."
LGBT, NAACP and immigration activists powerful statement: You attack one of us, you attack us all
LGBT, NAACP and immigration activists powerful statement: You attack one of us, you attack us all
"Organizations supporting equality stood in solidarity on Sunday, filling the airwaves with profound statements of shock and heartache at the shooting at an LGBT nightclub Pulse in Orlando early that morning."
"Organizations supporting equality stood in solidarity on Sunday, filling the airwaves with profound statements of shock and heartache at the shooting at an LGBT nightclub Pulse in Orlando early that morning."
Conservative Texas Lt. Governor Tweets Vile Bible Verse After Mass Shooting In LGBT Club
http://addictinginfo.org/2016/06/12/conservative-texas-lt-governor-tweets-vile-bible-verse-after-mass-shooting-in-lgbt-club/
"In other words, Patrick thinks that the people shot and killed at Pulse Orlando had it coming because they were at a gay night club. According to conservative “Christians” like Patrick, being gay is a sin against God punishable by death."
"In other words, Patrick thinks that the people shot and killed at Pulse Orlando had it coming because they were at a gay night club. According to conservative “Christians” like Patrick, being gay is a sin against God punishable by death."
On Fox & Friends, Donald Trump suggests President Obama is working with the terrorists
http://www.dailykos.com/story/2016/6/13/1538018/-On-Fox-Friends-Donald-Trump-suggests-President-Obama-is-working-with-the-terrorists
"Donald Trump and the septic tank of Fox News, coming together once again to bring you things you could previously only hear from the most racist and conspiratorial chain letters. Because that's how you run a network now, and apparently that's how you rise to the top of the Republican Party."
"Donald Trump and the septic tank of Fox News, coming together once again to bring you things you could previously only hear from the most racist and conspiratorial chain letters. Because that's how you run a network now, and apparently that's how you rise to the top of the Republican Party."
Rohrer: Same-Sex Marriage Ushering In Divine Judgment On America
Rohrer: Same-Sex Marriage Ushering In Divine Judgment On America:
"Last year Rohrer called Russian President Vladimir Putin “the moral leader of the world” for his crackdown on homosexuality."
"Last year Rohrer called Russian President Vladimir Putin “the moral leader of the world” for his crackdown on homosexuality."
Little Acknowledgment That LGBT People Were Targeted in Orlando Gun Massacre
http://www.politicususa.com/2016/06/13/acknowledgment-lgbt-people-targeted-orlando-gun-massacre.html
"For example, Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) released a statement that never once mentioned the LGBT community. He mentioned every other group under the Sun, but not one word about gays being the target of the mayhem."
"For example, Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) released a statement that never once mentioned the LGBT community. He mentioned every other group under the Sun, but not one word about gays being the target of the mayhem."
The Orlando shooting was during Pride Month, which began in response to anti-LBGTQ violence
http://www.vox.com/2016/6/12/11911960/orlando-shooting-lgbt-pride
"It’s particularly heartbreaking that it happened during LGBT Pride Month, a celebration that arose from violence, particularly police brutality, against LGBTQ people. The first pride march was held in 1970 in New York, a year after the Stonewall Riots, violent police raids on a gay- and transgender-friendly bar that led to four nights of rioting."
"It’s particularly heartbreaking that it happened during LGBT Pride Month, a celebration that arose from violence, particularly police brutality, against LGBTQ people. The first pride march was held in 1970 in New York, a year after the Stonewall Riots, violent police raids on a gay- and transgender-friendly bar that led to four nights of rioting."
Indiana gun nut who planned to attack Los Angeles LGBT pride has a history of criminal violence
Indiana gun nut who planned to attack Los Angeles LGBT pride has a history of criminal violence
"Howell was arrested Sunday after telling police officers he was en route to L.A. Pride where he “wanted to harm” the event. He was heavily armed with what police called a “small arsenal” in his car."
"Howell was arrested Sunday after telling police officers he was en route to L.A. Pride where he “wanted to harm” the event. He was heavily armed with what police called a “small arsenal” in his car."
Anti-LGBT Pastor Steven Anderson Applauds Orlando Massacre: 'There's Fifty Less Pedophiles In The World'
Anti-LGBT Pastor Steven Anderson Applauds Orlando Massacre: 'There's Fifty Less Pedophiles In The World':
"Anderson explained that he didn’t approve of the shooter’s actions… but only because he thinks the victims should have been put to death by the government."
"Anderson explained that he didn’t approve of the shooter’s actions… but only because he thinks the victims should have been put to death by the government."
Donald Trump moves to block the release of his video testimony in university lawsuit
http://www.latimes.com/local/lanow/la-me-ln-trump-video-20160610-snap-story.html
"Trying to block the release of the videos is a losing battle for Trump, said Fred Smoller, an associate professor of political science at Chapman University."
"Trying to block the release of the videos is a losing battle for Trump, said Fred Smoller, an associate professor of political science at Chapman University."
Marco Rubio recommends Obama nominate this lawyer for federal judge – then blocks her when he does
Marco Rubio recommends Obama nominate this lawyer for federal judge – then blocks her when he does
"Florida Sen. and former contender for the GOP presidential nomination Marco Rubio recommended Mary Barzee Flores be nominated for a federal judge seat in South Florida. But after recommending her to President Barack Obama for nomination, Rubio has stonewalled her, the Miami Herald reports. Mary Barzee Flores, a lawyer from Miami and former state judge, was tapped by President Barack Obama to fill a federal bench vacancy more than a year ago. And while Rubio has only months left before he leaves the U.S. Senate, he now refuses to clear the way for her to be confirmed."
"Florida Sen. and former contender for the GOP presidential nomination Marco Rubio recommended Mary Barzee Flores be nominated for a federal judge seat in South Florida. But after recommending her to President Barack Obama for nomination, Rubio has stonewalled her, the Miami Herald reports. Mary Barzee Flores, a lawyer from Miami and former state judge, was tapped by President Barack Obama to fill a federal bench vacancy more than a year ago. And while Rubio has only months left before he leaves the U.S. Senate, he now refuses to clear the way for her to be confirmed."
Grover Norquist Trusts Trump's Tax Plan: 'It's Written Down'
Grover Norquist Trusts Trump's Tax Plan: 'It's Written Down'
"maybe it's just that Grover Norquist has been the same smarmy 'tax cuts for billionaires' douchebag for so very long that we are not only tired of his failed ideology, we're to the point where any Grover Norquist video makes all of us want to punch a wall."
"maybe it's just that Grover Norquist has been the same smarmy 'tax cuts for billionaires' douchebag for so very long that we are not only tired of his failed ideology, we're to the point where any Grover Norquist video makes all of us want to punch a wall."
WATCH: Ken Burns absolutely shreds ‘anti-immigrant know-nothing’ Trump at Stanford commencement
WATCH: Ken Burns absolutely shreds ‘anti-immigrant know-nothing’ Trump at Stanford commencement
"Documentary filmmaker Ken Burns spoke to the graduating class of Stanford on Sunday and used the opportunity to absolutely demolish presumptive GOP 2016 presidential nominee Donald Trump to the cheers of the crowd. Saying he was speaking as a historian, Burns urged attendees to reject everything that Trump represents."
"Documentary filmmaker Ken Burns spoke to the graduating class of Stanford on Sunday and used the opportunity to absolutely demolish presumptive GOP 2016 presidential nominee Donald Trump to the cheers of the crowd. Saying he was speaking as a historian, Burns urged attendees to reject everything that Trump represents."
Ryan's GOP Regurgitates "Anti-Poverty" Policies that Amount to War on Poor
Ryan's GOP Regurgitates "Anti-Poverty" Policies that Amount to War on Poor
"Continuing the GOP's war on the poor, Speaker Paul Ryan and House Republicans unveiled an ostensibly new "anti-poverty" plan on Tuesday, marked by cuts to critical safety-net programs and further austerity."
"Continuing the GOP's war on the poor, Speaker Paul Ryan and House Republicans unveiled an ostensibly new "anti-poverty" plan on Tuesday, marked by cuts to critical safety-net programs and further austerity."
Kansas GOP Will Undercut State Supreme Court Before Fixing Education Budget As Ordered
http://addictinginfo.org/2016/06/10/kansas-gop-will-undercut-state-supreme-court-before-fixing-education-budget-as-ordered/
"Kansas’ education system is a mess, thanks to the Republican-led legislature’s budget cuts. Funding allocation is heavily biased against poorer schools, and the state’s Supreme Court ordered the legislature to fix it so it was both fair and in line with the state’s constitution. So what are these Republicans doing instead? They’re looking for ways to undermine the Supreme Court instead of doing their jobs. The Kansas Supreme Court said that all schools would remain closed across the state until the legislature fixed the funding problems. They’re supposed to meet on June 23, ahead of the June 30 deadline set by the court, to work on the issue. However, in a move that’s oh-so-typical of crooked Republicans, they’re going to meet next week to discuss an amendment to the state constitution to limit the power of the court, instead of understanding that they screwed up and putting forth an honest effort to fix education funding."
"Kansas’ education system is a mess, thanks to the Republican-led legislature’s budget cuts. Funding allocation is heavily biased against poorer schools, and the state’s Supreme Court ordered the legislature to fix it so it was both fair and in line with the state’s constitution. So what are these Republicans doing instead? They’re looking for ways to undermine the Supreme Court instead of doing their jobs. The Kansas Supreme Court said that all schools would remain closed across the state until the legislature fixed the funding problems. They’re supposed to meet on June 23, ahead of the June 30 deadline set by the court, to work on the issue. However, in a move that’s oh-so-typical of crooked Republicans, they’re going to meet next week to discuss an amendment to the state constitution to limit the power of the court, instead of understanding that they screwed up and putting forth an honest effort to fix education funding."
Saturday, June 11, 2016
'Wet Kiss for Wall Street': Warren Shreds GOP Attempt to Gut Dodd-Frank
'Wet Kiss for Wall Street': Warren Shreds GOP Attempt to Gut Dodd-Frank
"Rep. Jeb Hensarling, a Republican from Texas, outlined his proposal—the Financial CHOICE (Creating Hope and Opportunity for Investors, Consumers and Entrepreneurs) Act—in a speech at the Economic Club of New York on Tuesday. The legislation contains "sweeping provisions that effectively constitute a wish list for Republicans," according to American Banker. The plan would roll back a slew of Dodd-Frank regulations; reduce the power of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau created by Warren; repeal the Volcker Rule that aims to stop banks from making risky bets with taxpayer-backed deposits; and prevent the Financial Stability Oversight Council from labeling insurers and other non-banks as "systemically important financial institutions"—or too big to fail—making them subject to federal constraints."
"Rep. Jeb Hensarling, a Republican from Texas, outlined his proposal—the Financial CHOICE (Creating Hope and Opportunity for Investors, Consumers and Entrepreneurs) Act—in a speech at the Economic Club of New York on Tuesday. The legislation contains "sweeping provisions that effectively constitute a wish list for Republicans," according to American Banker. The plan would roll back a slew of Dodd-Frank regulations; reduce the power of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau created by Warren; repeal the Volcker Rule that aims to stop banks from making risky bets with taxpayer-backed deposits; and prevent the Financial Stability Oversight Council from labeling insurers and other non-banks as "systemically important financial institutions"—or too big to fail—making them subject to federal constraints."
Chair of the Imbecile Caucus: Sen. Tom Cotton Proudly Stands at the Vanguard of Shameless Republican Obstructionism @alternet
Chair of the Imbecile Caucus: Sen. Tom Cotton Proudly Stands at the Vanguard of Shameless Republican Obstructionism @alternet:
"the story of Cassandra Butts, a graduate of Harvard Law School and longtime friend of President Obama who had served as Deputy White House Counsel early in his administration. In February of 2014, the president nominated Butts to be the ambassador to the Bahamas. In keeping with their tradition of saying no to everything Obama proposes, Republicans in the Senate put a hold on Butts’ confirmation. She was still waiting for them to lift it when she died two weeks ago after a short bout with leukemia. The senator behind the hold was Tom Cotton of Arkansas, who has predicated his entire brief Senate career on being an irredeemable dickhead. According to Bruni, Butts once went to Cotton to ask why he wouldn’t lift the hold on her nomination. [H]e explained that he knew that she was a close friend of Obama’s—the two first encountered each other on a line for financial-aid forms at Harvard Law School, where they were classmates—and that blocking her was a way to inflict special pain on the president. Cotton’s spokeswoman did not dispute Butts’s characterization of that meeting, and stressed, in separate emails, that Cotton had enormous respect for her and her career. That’s nice of him. Maybe Cotton can eulogize Butts at her funeral. Seems like the least he could do after keeping her twisting in the wind for over two years—835 days, to be exact—just because he wanted to “inflict special pain” on President Obama."
"the story of Cassandra Butts, a graduate of Harvard Law School and longtime friend of President Obama who had served as Deputy White House Counsel early in his administration. In February of 2014, the president nominated Butts to be the ambassador to the Bahamas. In keeping with their tradition of saying no to everything Obama proposes, Republicans in the Senate put a hold on Butts’ confirmation. She was still waiting for them to lift it when she died two weeks ago after a short bout with leukemia. The senator behind the hold was Tom Cotton of Arkansas, who has predicated his entire brief Senate career on being an irredeemable dickhead. According to Bruni, Butts once went to Cotton to ask why he wouldn’t lift the hold on her nomination. [H]e explained that he knew that she was a close friend of Obama’s—the two first encountered each other on a line for financial-aid forms at Harvard Law School, where they were classmates—and that blocking her was a way to inflict special pain on the president. Cotton’s spokeswoman did not dispute Butts’s characterization of that meeting, and stressed, in separate emails, that Cotton had enormous respect for her and her career. That’s nice of him. Maybe Cotton can eulogize Butts at her funeral. Seems like the least he could do after keeping her twisting in the wind for over two years—835 days, to be exact—just because he wanted to “inflict special pain” on President Obama."
BUSTED: Alabama’s Republican House Speaker convicted on corruption charges
BUSTED: Alabama’s Republican House Speaker convicted on corruption charges
"Hubbard, who was indicted in October 2014, faces up to 20 years in prison for each count."
"Hubbard, who was indicted in October 2014, faces up to 20 years in prison for each count."
Will Trump and Charter Schools Be Another Scam? Just Look at Pal Carl Icahn's Lucrative School 'Charity' @alternet
Will Trump and Charter Schools Be Another Scam? Just Look at Pal Carl Icahn's Lucrative School 'Charity' @alternet:
"Most people know Carl Icahn as a real-life Gordon Gekko—the investor who helped drive Trans World Airlines to bankruptcy, selling the company’s prime routes and saddling it with debt, while pocketing millions for himself. Today, Icahn is once again in the national spotlight with Donald Trump, his former business associate, floating the possibility of making him Treasury Secretary."
"Most people know Carl Icahn as a real-life Gordon Gekko—the investor who helped drive Trans World Airlines to bankruptcy, selling the company’s prime routes and saddling it with debt, while pocketing millions for himself. Today, Icahn is once again in the national spotlight with Donald Trump, his former business associate, floating the possibility of making him Treasury Secretary."
Hundreds of Claimants Say Deadbeat Donald Trump Doesn’t Pay His Bills @alternet
Hundreds of Claimants Say Deadbeat Donald Trump Doesn’t Pay His Bills @alternet:
"Trump companies have been cited on 24 violations of the 2005’s Fair Labor Act by failing to pay overtime or minimum wage. The purported billionaire has been served with more than 200 mechanic’s liens filed by contractors and employees, ranging from “a $75,000 claim by a Plainview, N.Y., air conditioning and heating company to a $1 million claim from the president of a New York City real estate banking firm.” Trump has made of habit of stiffing small businesses and suppliers over the years and then simply financially exhausting them in court or waiting until the financial wounds he inflicted on them drive them out of business. Edward Friel’s son Paul told USA Today that his father’s company filed for bankruptcy after five years of battling Trump and his lawyers, but that his family’s experience is hardly unique. “There’s tons of these stories out there,” he said. “Trump hits everybody"."
"Trump companies have been cited on 24 violations of the 2005’s Fair Labor Act by failing to pay overtime or minimum wage. The purported billionaire has been served with more than 200 mechanic’s liens filed by contractors and employees, ranging from “a $75,000 claim by a Plainview, N.Y., air conditioning and heating company to a $1 million claim from the president of a New York City real estate banking firm.” Trump has made of habit of stiffing small businesses and suppliers over the years and then simply financially exhausting them in court or waiting until the financial wounds he inflicted on them drive them out of business. Edward Friel’s son Paul told USA Today that his father’s company filed for bankruptcy after five years of battling Trump and his lawyers, but that his family’s experience is hardly unique. “There’s tons of these stories out there,” he said. “Trump hits everybody"."
Mitch McConnell is 'comfortable' with Trump, wants him to 'stay on script' so he can win
http://www.dailykos.com/stories/2016/6/10/1537024/-Mitch-McConnell-is-comfortable-with-Trump-wants-him-to-stay-on-script-so-he-can-win
"He admits Trump isn't qualified to be president. He basically acknowledges that Trump is a racist. But, he doesn't care—he's "comfortable" with Trump being president. The only problem McConnell seems to have with the guy is that he lets his horribleness hang out. He says Trump needs to stay on a script because doing so "indicates a level of seriousness that I think is important to convey to American people about the job you are seeking. […] I think he'd have a much better chance of winning if he would quit making so many unfortunate public utterances and stick to the script." He just needs to stop saying his racist sh*t out loud so that he doesn't lose the election. That's the only real problem McConnell has with Trump. That he could lose not because he's a racist blowhard with strong fascist leanings, but because he doesn't hide all that. That's who McConnell wants as president, who he wants naming the next Supreme Court justice."
"He admits Trump isn't qualified to be president. He basically acknowledges that Trump is a racist. But, he doesn't care—he's "comfortable" with Trump being president. The only problem McConnell seems to have with the guy is that he lets his horribleness hang out. He says Trump needs to stay on a script because doing so "indicates a level of seriousness that I think is important to convey to American people about the job you are seeking. […] I think he'd have a much better chance of winning if he would quit making so many unfortunate public utterances and stick to the script." He just needs to stop saying his racist sh*t out loud so that he doesn't lose the election. That's the only real problem McConnell has with Trump. That he could lose not because he's a racist blowhard with strong fascist leanings, but because he doesn't hide all that. That's who McConnell wants as president, who he wants naming the next Supreme Court justice."
The Recent Republican Fake 'Outrage' Over Trump's Racism is an Absolute Joke
The Recent Republican Fake 'Outrage' Over Trump's Racism is an Absolute Joke
"So, Republicans can try to sell this bullsh*t that his comments don’t represent the values of the party, but you’d have to be an absolute fool to buy it. Donald Trump is exactly what the modern-day Republican party is. That’s exactly why he clinched the GOP presidential nomination without hardly breaking a sweat."
"So, Republicans can try to sell this bullsh*t that his comments don’t represent the values of the party, but you’d have to be an absolute fool to buy it. Donald Trump is exactly what the modern-day Republican party is. That’s exactly why he clinched the GOP presidential nomination without hardly breaking a sweat."
Ex-KKK leader David Duke blames ‘Blitzer and the Jews’ for Trump’s troubles in wild rant
Ex-KKK leader David Duke blames ‘Blitzer and the Jews’ for Trump’s troubles in wild rant
"Former KKK leader David Duke came to the defense of one of his political idols Tuesday, blaming Donald Trump’s legal problems over his scandal-plagued Trump University on a new culprit. “Jewish agent” Wolf Blitzer and the Jewish-owned media."
"Former KKK leader David Duke came to the defense of one of his political idols Tuesday, blaming Donald Trump’s legal problems over his scandal-plagued Trump University on a new culprit. “Jewish agent” Wolf Blitzer and the Jewish-owned media."
The GOP’s incoherent stance on Trump has to end: You can’t be for and against a racist
The GOP’s incoherent stance on Trump has to end: You can’t be for and against a racist
"Asking him to tone down his racism, as Corker has suggested, is an affront to every person who has listened to Trump spew bigotry since the minute he launched his campaign. We know who he is by now. And so do the Republicans who continue to support him."
"Asking him to tone down his racism, as Corker has suggested, is an affront to every person who has listened to Trump spew bigotry since the minute he launched his campaign. We know who he is by now. And so do the Republicans who continue to support him."
The GOP’s Women Problem: Report Shows the Party of Trump Is Struggling to Elect Women to Congress @alternet
The GOP’s Women Problem: Report Shows the Party of Trump Is Struggling to Elect Women to Congress @alternet:
"An unapologetic misogynist has hijacked the Republican Party. Donald Trump is unlikely to win a general election, but he’s immensely popular among Republican primary voters. And he’s managed to preserve his popularity despite insulting women repeatedly. Attributing a reporter’s question to her menstrual cycle is the most egregious offense, but there are countless others. Women have noticed, too. According a recent Gallup poll, 70 percent of women have an unfavorable opinion of Donald Trump, compared to 58 percent of men. This is the largest gender gap we’ve seen for a presidential candidate, and it’s likely to grow as more women start paying attention. Indeed, in July of last year only 58 percent of women had an unfavorable opinion of Trump. Although Trump is viewed negatively by men in general, his favorability ratings remain high among Republican men. 61 percent of Republican men view him favorably, with only 36 percent reporting negative feelings. Republican women are more split on Trump (49 percent favorable, 46 percent unfavorable), which is instructive but not very conclusive. Unsurprisingly, Democratic voters – both men and women – are united in their disdain for Trump (84 percent of men and 89 percent of women view him unfavorably). It’s tempting to think of Trump as an outlier, as some foreign pathogen infecting the Republican Party. But that’s not the case. His chauvinism finds a happy audience among conservatives."
"An unapologetic misogynist has hijacked the Republican Party. Donald Trump is unlikely to win a general election, but he’s immensely popular among Republican primary voters. And he’s managed to preserve his popularity despite insulting women repeatedly. Attributing a reporter’s question to her menstrual cycle is the most egregious offense, but there are countless others. Women have noticed, too. According a recent Gallup poll, 70 percent of women have an unfavorable opinion of Donald Trump, compared to 58 percent of men. This is the largest gender gap we’ve seen for a presidential candidate, and it’s likely to grow as more women start paying attention. Indeed, in July of last year only 58 percent of women had an unfavorable opinion of Trump. Although Trump is viewed negatively by men in general, his favorability ratings remain high among Republican men. 61 percent of Republican men view him favorably, with only 36 percent reporting negative feelings. Republican women are more split on Trump (49 percent favorable, 46 percent unfavorable), which is instructive but not very conclusive. Unsurprisingly, Democratic voters – both men and women – are united in their disdain for Trump (84 percent of men and 89 percent of women view him unfavorably). It’s tempting to think of Trump as an outlier, as some foreign pathogen infecting the Republican Party. But that’s not the case. His chauvinism finds a happy audience among conservatives."
Trump Bombs On CNN And CBS After Networks Use Interviews To Call Out His Lies
http://www.politicususa.com/2016/06/05/trump-bombs-sunday-shows-cnn-cbs-interviews-call-lies.html
"Trump immediately goes on the defensive when challenged, and he can’t hold up to the slightest bit of scrutiny."
"Trump immediately goes on the defensive when challenged, and he can’t hold up to the slightest bit of scrutiny."
Donald Trump Owes HUNDREDS Of Ordinary People Money
http://addictinginfo.org/2016/06/09/donald-trump-owes-hundreds-of-ordinary-people-money/
"USA Today also found that Trump’s companies have been cited at least 24 times since 2005 for violating the Fair Labor Standards Act “for failing to pay overtime or minimum wage.” There also over 200 mechanic’s liens that have been filed against Trump, his companies, or his properties, showing that he still owes money for work, some dating as far back in the 1980s. But his track record shows once again that Trump is a really rich guy (though probably not actually a billionaire) who didn’t think twice of stepping on the little guy so he could get what he wants. In some cases, the Trump teams financially overpower and outlast much smaller opponents, draining their resources. You can’t make America “great again” if you’re hurting it now."
"USA Today also found that Trump’s companies have been cited at least 24 times since 2005 for violating the Fair Labor Standards Act “for failing to pay overtime or minimum wage.” There also over 200 mechanic’s liens that have been filed against Trump, his companies, or his properties, showing that he still owes money for work, some dating as far back in the 1980s. But his track record shows once again that Trump is a really rich guy (though probably not actually a billionaire) who didn’t think twice of stepping on the little guy so he could get what he wants. In some cases, the Trump teams financially overpower and outlast much smaller opponents, draining their resources. You can’t make America “great again” if you’re hurting it now."
Trump Used To Brag That He Wasn’t Controlled By Special Interests. Today, Everything Changes.
http://thinkprogress.org/politics/2016/06/09/3786459/donald-trump-special-interests-self-funding-rnc/
"Trump has teamed with the Republication National Committee to put together a more traditional fundraising operation relying on the same wealthy donors he once criticized establishment politicians for taking money from."
"Trump has teamed with the Republication National Committee to put together a more traditional fundraising operation relying on the same wealthy donors he once criticized establishment politicians for taking money from."
What To Do When The Trump Campaign Is Gaslighting Your Network
http://mediamatters.org/blog/2016/06/08/what-do-when-trump-campaign-gaslighting-your-network/210820
"Trump’s supporters are now actively lying about Trump’s comments during television appearances"
"Trump’s supporters are now actively lying about Trump’s comments during television appearances"
Mitch McConnell's vision: An entire federal judiciary in Donald Trump's tiny hands
http://www.dailykos.com/stories/2016/6/6/1535105/-Mitch-McConnell-s-vision-An-entire-federal-judiciary-in-Donald-Trump-s-tiny-hands
"this means that McConnell and crew are just fine with Donald Trump picking the Supreme Court, and they're working for a whole federal judiciary determined by the racist megalomaniac. They want a federal judiciary shaped for generations in his vision. McConnell and his merry band are ready for the ranks from which future Supreme Court justices are picked being forged by Trump. That can't happen. To make sure it doesn't, don't just fight to beat Trump. Fight to oust the Republican Senate."
"this means that McConnell and crew are just fine with Donald Trump picking the Supreme Court, and they're working for a whole federal judiciary determined by the racist megalomaniac. They want a federal judiciary shaped for generations in his vision. McConnell and his merry band are ready for the ranks from which future Supreme Court justices are picked being forged by Trump. That can't happen. To make sure it doesn't, don't just fight to beat Trump. Fight to oust the Republican Senate."
Republican convention set to break a record—for whiteness
http://www.dailykos.com/stories/2016/6/7/1535697/-Republican-convention-set-to-break-a-record-for-whiteness
"When scanning the faces at a Donald Trump rally, “diversity” is not the first word that comes to mind. The same is true of the GOP in general. Despite making noise about outreach, the party continues to run on policies that aren’t simply nationalist, aren’t merely anti-immigrant, but are deliberately meant to harm people of color. The problem goes way beyond calling judges Mexican or threatening Muslims. The 14 delegates at the 1964 convention were just 1 percent of the total, the lowest ever. If the numbers for the 2016 convention hold, the 18 African Americans in Cleveland will be just 0.7 percent of the total delegates. It’s not as if the Republican Party had made great progress at building bridges to the minority community in the period between 1964 and 2016, but one thing is clear: They’ve burned those bridges, and they plan to party on the ashes."
"When scanning the faces at a Donald Trump rally, “diversity” is not the first word that comes to mind. The same is true of the GOP in general. Despite making noise about outreach, the party continues to run on policies that aren’t simply nationalist, aren’t merely anti-immigrant, but are deliberately meant to harm people of color. The problem goes way beyond calling judges Mexican or threatening Muslims. The 14 delegates at the 1964 convention were just 1 percent of the total, the lowest ever. If the numbers for the 2016 convention hold, the 18 African Americans in Cleveland will be just 0.7 percent of the total delegates. It’s not as if the Republican Party had made great progress at building bridges to the minority community in the period between 1964 and 2016, but one thing is clear: They’ve burned those bridges, and they plan to party on the ashes."
There’s Something Weird Missing From The GOP’s Website
There’s Something Weird Missing From The GOP’s Website
"If you go to the Republican National Committee website, there is a crowded homepage with no mention of Donald Trump."
"If you go to the Republican National Committee website, there is a crowded homepage with no mention of Donald Trump."
Trump Tweets FAKE Photo Of Black Supporters After Racist Meltdown
http://addictinginfo.org/2016/06/04/trump-tweets-fake-photo-of-black-supporters-after-racist-meltdown/
"The morning after getting pounded for several racial outbursts he made on Friday, Donald Trump retweeted an image of a black family with the caption “American Families for Trump"."
"The morning after getting pounded for several racial outbursts he made on Friday, Donald Trump retweeted an image of a black family with the caption “American Families for Trump"."
Legal Scholars: Trump Is So Ignorant He’s A “Recipe For A Constitutional Crisis”
http://occupydemocrats.com/2016/06/03/legal-scholars-trump-ignorant-hes-recipe-constitutional-crisis/
"Presumptive Republican nominee Donald Trump has gotten so out of hand that conservative and libertarian scholars are turning on him, horrified by his flagrant disregard of the Constitution. The New York Times noted today that legal scholars across the political spectrum are warning that Donald Trump could provoke a constitutional crisis – and possibly impeachment – within his first month if he is elected."
"Presumptive Republican nominee Donald Trump has gotten so out of hand that conservative and libertarian scholars are turning on him, horrified by his flagrant disregard of the Constitution. The New York Times noted today that legal scholars across the political spectrum are warning that Donald Trump could provoke a constitutional crisis – and possibly impeachment – within his first month if he is elected."
These Republican Leaders Support Trump, Believe He Will Violate The Constitution And Incite Violence
http://thinkprogress.org/politics/2016/06/03/3784512/mccain-haley-cole-trump-support/
"Embroiled in a tough reelection fight, Sen. John McCain (R-AZ) worries presumptive Republican nominee Donald Trump would overstep the chief executives’s legal bounds if elected president. Along similar lines, Rep. Tom Cole (R-OK) is concerned Trump’s proposed Muslim ban violates the constitution. And Gov. Nikki Haley (R-SC) warns that Trump’s divisive rhetoric could lead to more violent incidents like the racially motivated mass shooting at a Charleston church that claimed nine lives. Yet despite those concerns, all three have pledged to support Trump, raising the question of just what it would take for them to disavow a candidate who has done anything but moderate his positions since locking up the Republican nomination."
"Embroiled in a tough reelection fight, Sen. John McCain (R-AZ) worries presumptive Republican nominee Donald Trump would overstep the chief executives’s legal bounds if elected president. Along similar lines, Rep. Tom Cole (R-OK) is concerned Trump’s proposed Muslim ban violates the constitution. And Gov. Nikki Haley (R-SC) warns that Trump’s divisive rhetoric could lead to more violent incidents like the racially motivated mass shooting at a Charleston church that claimed nine lives. Yet despite those concerns, all three have pledged to support Trump, raising the question of just what it would take for them to disavow a candidate who has done anything but moderate his positions since locking up the Republican nomination."
Legal Scholars Worried Trump Would Break Laws, Be Worse Than Nixon
http://addictinginfo.org/2016/06/03/legal-scholars-worried-trump-would-break-laws-be-worse-than-nixon/
"In a recent article from the New York Times, these lawyers, all politically conservative, lambasted the billionaire mogul for his attacks against the First Amendment, individuals, the separation of powers, and the rule of law all together."
"In a recent article from the New York Times, these lawyers, all politically conservative, lambasted the billionaire mogul for his attacks against the First Amendment, individuals, the separation of powers, and the rule of law all together."
Even John Yoo Thinks Trump's Attacks On Trump U Judge Are 'Disturbing'
http://talkingpointsmemo.com/livewire/donald-trump-john-yoo-disturbing
"Donald Trump's smear campaign against a federal judge has so troubled the legal community that even the conservative lawyer who authored the George W. Bush administration's so-called "torture memos" said the presumptive GOP nominee's behavior is "disturbing"."
"Donald Trump's smear campaign against a federal judge has so troubled the legal community that even the conservative lawyer who authored the George W. Bush administration's so-called "torture memos" said the presumptive GOP nominee's behavior is "disturbing"."
Revealed: Hundreds of claimants say deadbeat Donald Trump doesn’t pay his bills
Revealed: Hundreds of claimants say deadbeat Donald Trump doesn’t pay his bills
"Hundreds of former employees and business associates say that former reality TV star and presumptive Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump is a grifter and a deadbeat who never paid them for their work. According to USA Today, Trump has left a trail of broken promises and debts in his wake over the years as a result of his long string of failed businesses, multiple bankruptcies and a cavalier attitude regarding his obligations to others."
"Hundreds of former employees and business associates say that former reality TV star and presumptive Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump is a grifter and a deadbeat who never paid them for their work. According to USA Today, Trump has left a trail of broken promises and debts in his wake over the years as a result of his long string of failed businesses, multiple bankruptcies and a cavalier attitude regarding his obligations to others."
Florida Republicans ignore calls to investigate reports Trump bribed GOP attorney general
Florida Republicans ignore calls to investigate reports Trump bribed GOP attorney general
"In 2013, Trump’s charitable foundation cut a $25,000 check to Bondi during her re-election campaign. The donation came to light after the Center for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington filed a complaint with the IRS because charitable organizations are not allowed to make political donations. Four days earlier, the Sentinel had reported Bondi was considering joining a New York state class action lawsuit against Trump University after receiving complaints filed by Florida residents. After receiving the donation, Bondi opted out of the suit, telling citizens to find their own lawyers online or join the New York suit. The Associated Press reported this week that Bondi had personally solicited the donation from Trump, noting the timing of the donation and Bondi’s decision not to join in suing Trump in the fraud case are important because Trump openly brags about expecting favors from politicians in return for financial donations."
"In 2013, Trump’s charitable foundation cut a $25,000 check to Bondi during her re-election campaign. The donation came to light after the Center for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington filed a complaint with the IRS because charitable organizations are not allowed to make political donations. Four days earlier, the Sentinel had reported Bondi was considering joining a New York state class action lawsuit against Trump University after receiving complaints filed by Florida residents. After receiving the donation, Bondi opted out of the suit, telling citizens to find their own lawyers online or join the New York suit. The Associated Press reported this week that Bondi had personally solicited the donation from Trump, noting the timing of the donation and Bondi’s decision not to join in suing Trump in the fraud case are important because Trump openly brags about expecting favors from politicians in return for financial donations."
McConnell thinks Trump should be president even though ‘it’s pretty obvious he doesn’t know a lot’
McConnell thinks Trump should be president even though ‘it’s pretty obvious he doesn’t know a lot’
"McConnell also noted that being more scripted would help Trump avoid saying some of the unfortunate things he’s said about minorities so far in his presidential campaign."
"McConnell also noted that being more scripted would help Trump avoid saying some of the unfortunate things he’s said about minorities so far in his presidential campaign."
It's All a Con: Trump's Presidential Campaign Is as Big a Scam as Trump University @alternet
It's All a Con: Trump's Presidential Campaign Is as Big a Scam as Trump University @alternet:
"Donald has always been a showman and a shameless self-promoter, and now scam-artist can be added to his resume. Even though the celebrity billionaire was born on third base and has enough money to live luxuriously many lifetimes over, he still couldn’t help scamming people for some extra cash (or was it simply a vanity project?). This says a lot about what kind of person he is—unethical at best, criminal at worst. Of course, his political strategy has been a lot like his business strategy, and the huckster is now trying to pull off the biggest con of them all: getting America to elect him president. Over the past year, Trump has been a entertainer, grabbing all of the headlines with his petty feuds and unpredictability; a brash self-promoter, boasting about everything from his net worth to his penis; and a charlatan, promising the world to his supporters while offering almost no substantive plans on how to accomplish any of it. The policies that the Trump campaign has put forward are shockingly impractical and dangerous—from his proposal to deport 11 million people (which would cost hundreds of billions of dollars) to his tax plan, which would add an estimated $10 trillion to the debt over the next decade. Most economists agree that if Trump accomplished his most notable policies—mass deportations, getting into aggressive trade wars, slashing taxes for the wealthiest—he would quickly send the economy spiraling into another recession. Meanwhile, the billionaire has made erroneous claim after erroneous claim, all to fire up uninformed Americans and stir up resentment (one can never be sure whether Trump is ignorant himself or he is simply lying because he knows he can get away with it)."
"Donald has always been a showman and a shameless self-promoter, and now scam-artist can be added to his resume. Even though the celebrity billionaire was born on third base and has enough money to live luxuriously many lifetimes over, he still couldn’t help scamming people for some extra cash (or was it simply a vanity project?). This says a lot about what kind of person he is—unethical at best, criminal at worst. Of course, his political strategy has been a lot like his business strategy, and the huckster is now trying to pull off the biggest con of them all: getting America to elect him president. Over the past year, Trump has been a entertainer, grabbing all of the headlines with his petty feuds and unpredictability; a brash self-promoter, boasting about everything from his net worth to his penis; and a charlatan, promising the world to his supporters while offering almost no substantive plans on how to accomplish any of it. The policies that the Trump campaign has put forward are shockingly impractical and dangerous—from his proposal to deport 11 million people (which would cost hundreds of billions of dollars) to his tax plan, which would add an estimated $10 trillion to the debt over the next decade. Most economists agree that if Trump accomplished his most notable policies—mass deportations, getting into aggressive trade wars, slashing taxes for the wealthiest—he would quickly send the economy spiraling into another recession. Meanwhile, the billionaire has made erroneous claim after erroneous claim, all to fire up uninformed Americans and stir up resentment (one can never be sure whether Trump is ignorant himself or he is simply lying because he knows he can get away with it)."
Donald Trump, pitiful cry-baby: The GOP nominee plans to whine his way to the White House
Donald Trump, pitiful cry-baby: The GOP nominee plans to whine his way to the White House
"There’s also the issue of temperament and the fact that most voters think Trump is severely lacking in that area. A Fox News poll last month indicated 65 percent of voters don’t think Trump has the “temperament” to serve as president, and a CNN poll in May found the number was even higher: 70 percent."
"There’s also the issue of temperament and the fact that most voters think Trump is severely lacking in that area. A Fox News poll last month indicated 65 percent of voters don’t think Trump has the “temperament” to serve as president, and a CNN poll in May found the number was even higher: 70 percent."
Watch: John Oliver Explains Why Trump University Scam Should Disqualify Him From Presidency
http://occupydemocrats.com/2016/06/06/watch-john-oliver-explains-trump-university-scam-disqualify-presidency/
"Trump University is perhaps the best illustration of just what kind of a man Donald Trump truly is – a liar and a cheat with absolutely no moral compass or any empathy for the thousands of everyday Americans that he stole from."
"Trump University is perhaps the best illustration of just what kind of a man Donald Trump truly is – a liar and a cheat with absolutely no moral compass or any empathy for the thousands of everyday Americans that he stole from."
Buzzfeed Tells RNC To Take Their Ad Money And Shove It
Buzzfeed Tells RNC To Take Their Ad Money And Shove It
"Buzzfeed has cancelled a Republican National Committee ad contract, and has directly attributed that move to Trump's insane, racist, xenophobic, hateful, (I can't type the whole list out anymore) rhetoric."
"Buzzfeed has cancelled a Republican National Committee ad contract, and has directly attributed that move to Trump's insane, racist, xenophobic, hateful, (I can't type the whole list out anymore) rhetoric."
5 Reasons Why Trump Supporters Aren't 'Frustrated Americans,' They're Just Ignorant & Dense
5 Reasons Why Trump Supporters Aren't 'Frustrated Americans,' They're Just Ignorant & Dense
"1. Nearly everything he says is a lie: It’s not just that Trump lies, it’s the way he lies. He just says — stuff. It’s not that he distorts a study, or cherry picks some data from a report, he literally just says “I’ve been hearing” or “they say,” then proceeds to just say whatever the hell he thinks his audience wants to hear without remotely caring whether or not what he’s saying is true. The most ironic part of this is, even though he’s the most dishonest person I’ve ever seen run for president, his supporters actually believe he’s honest and “telling it like it is.” The only thing they care about, because it’s what they want to hear, is what he has to say — no matter how full of sh*t he is."
"1. Nearly everything he says is a lie: It’s not just that Trump lies, it’s the way he lies. He just says — stuff. It’s not that he distorts a study, or cherry picks some data from a report, he literally just says “I’ve been hearing” or “they say,” then proceeds to just say whatever the hell he thinks his audience wants to hear without remotely caring whether or not what he’s saying is true. The most ironic part of this is, even though he’s the most dishonest person I’ve ever seen run for president, his supporters actually believe he’s honest and “telling it like it is.” The only thing they care about, because it’s what they want to hear, is what he has to say — no matter how full of sh*t he is."
Racist Conservatives Wish Sasha Obama A Happy 15th Birthday: ‘Hope U Get Raped’ (SCREENSHOTS)
http://addictinginfo.org/2016/06/10/racist-conservatives-wish-sasha-obama-a-happy-15th-birthday-hope-u-get-raped-screenshots/
"Even conservatives got in on wishing Sasha a happy birthday — though their greetings were of a very different nature to those most shared. Right-wing trash dispensary and ridiculously-named Facebook page, The Resistance: The Last Line of Defense, posted a question for their racist, uneducated, Trump-loving followers."
"Even conservatives got in on wishing Sasha a happy birthday — though their greetings were of a very different nature to those most shared. Right-wing trash dispensary and ridiculously-named Facebook page, The Resistance: The Last Line of Defense, posted a question for their racist, uneducated, Trump-loving followers."
Trump rips Romney after ‘trickle down bigotry’ comments: He ‘choked like a dog’ against Obama
Trump rips Romney after ‘trickle down bigotry’ comments: He ‘choked like a dog’ against Obama
"Romney blasted Trump on CNN Friday saying, “Presidents have an impact on the nature of our nation, and trickle-down racism, trickle-down bigotry, trickle-down misogyny, all these things are extraordinarily dangerous to the heart and character of America"."
"Romney blasted Trump on CNN Friday saying, “Presidents have an impact on the nature of our nation, and trickle-down racism, trickle-down bigotry, trickle-down misogyny, all these things are extraordinarily dangerous to the heart and character of America"."
50+ Times The Co-Author Of Trump’s Go-To Anti-Clinton Book Has Tweeted The Slur “Ni**er"
http://mediamatters.org/blog/2016/06/10/50-times-co-author-trump-s-go-anti-clinton-book-has-tweeted-slur-nigger/210858
"Trump has repeatedly used research from The Clintons’ War on Women, which is co-authored by Robert Morrow -- a bizarre conspiracy theorist who uses his Twitter account to endlessly tweet the slur “ni**er,” including about President Obama."
"Trump has repeatedly used research from The Clintons’ War on Women, which is co-authored by Robert Morrow -- a bizarre conspiracy theorist who uses his Twitter account to endlessly tweet the slur “ni**er,” including about President Obama."
Trump Seeks To Whiten The Republican Party Even More
Trump Seeks To Whiten The Republican Party Even More
"Those of us who possess rudimentary cognitive skills can easily see that the Republican Party offers nothing for the majority of Americans, except for those who are white, male and wealthy. Since the demographics of this country are quickly shifting from a White majority to a much larger percentage of Hispanics making up our electorate, Donald Trump thought this was the opportune time to insult the living Hell out of any and every American of Latino descent."
"Those of us who possess rudimentary cognitive skills can easily see that the Republican Party offers nothing for the majority of Americans, except for those who are white, male and wealthy. Since the demographics of this country are quickly shifting from a White majority to a much larger percentage of Hispanics making up our electorate, Donald Trump thought this was the opportune time to insult the living Hell out of any and every American of Latino descent."
Seth Myers Blames Republicans For Supporting Racist Trump
Seth Myers Blames Republicans For Supporting Racist Trump
"Trump is a racist, has always been a racist, and anyone pretending otherwise is either lying or stupid."
"Trump is a racist, has always been a racist, and anyone pretending otherwise is either lying or stupid."
GOP Senators Finally Starting To Realize Their Party Nominated A Total Racist
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/gop-senators-donald-trump_us_57571fcfe4b0b60682df2e27
"Sen. Mark Kirk (R-Ill.) became the first Republican member of Congress to rescind an endorsement of Donald Trump, saying on Tuesday that he could no longer support his party’s presumptive nominee for president after Trump’s racist attacks against a federal judge. “I cannot and will not support my party’s nominee for President,” he said. Kirk’s statement was the most powerful denunciation of Trump to come from Republicans on Capitol Hill, but it was hardly the only one, suggesting that Trump’s racist attacks are finally starting to worry GOP lawmakers. Sen. Jeff Flake (R-Ariz.), one of the few Republican senators who have not backed Trump, went a step further, arguing that Trump’s comments could motivate Republicans to challenge him at the party’s convention in July. “Where there’s no talk of a convention challenge or anything else, this might spur it,” he told reporters on Capitol Hill. “Let’s face it: meet the old Trump, just like the new Trump. We’ve got what we’ve got. That’s not somebody who can win the White House"."
"Sen. Mark Kirk (R-Ill.) became the first Republican member of Congress to rescind an endorsement of Donald Trump, saying on Tuesday that he could no longer support his party’s presumptive nominee for president after Trump’s racist attacks against a federal judge. “I cannot and will not support my party’s nominee for President,” he said. Kirk’s statement was the most powerful denunciation of Trump to come from Republicans on Capitol Hill, but it was hardly the only one, suggesting that Trump’s racist attacks are finally starting to worry GOP lawmakers. Sen. Jeff Flake (R-Ariz.), one of the few Republican senators who have not backed Trump, went a step further, arguing that Trump’s comments could motivate Republicans to challenge him at the party’s convention in July. “Where there’s no talk of a convention challenge or anything else, this might spur it,” he told reporters on Capitol Hill. “Let’s face it: meet the old Trump, just like the new Trump. We’ve got what we’ve got. That’s not somebody who can win the White House"."
“Trump Is Right”: Trump’s White Nationalist Backers Applaud His Racist Attacks On Federal Judge
http://mediamatters.org/research/2016/06/07/trump-right-trump-s-white-nationalist-backers-applaud-his-racist-attacks-federal-judge/210776
"Daily Stormer writer “Zeiger” praised Trump for his attacks on the judge, writing that Trump is waking up white Americans. The writer then suggested an Auschwitz-type event would happen when people “wak[e] up"."
"Daily Stormer writer “Zeiger” praised Trump for his attacks on the judge, writing that Trump is waking up white Americans. The writer then suggested an Auschwitz-type event would happen when people “wak[e] up"."
Iowa senator leaving GOP compares Trump’s rise to ‘what happened in the 1930s in Germany’
Iowa senator leaving GOP compares Trump’s rise to ‘what happened in the 1930s in Germany’
"An Iowa state legislator became the first GOP lawmaker to leave the party in an act of protest over Donald Trump’s presumptive presidential nomination, the Guardian reported on Tuesday."
"An Iowa state legislator became the first GOP lawmaker to leave the party in an act of protest over Donald Trump’s presumptive presidential nomination, the Guardian reported on Tuesday."
WATCH: Penn Jillette shreds ‘evil’ Donald Trump for appealing to ‘stupid’ conspiracy nuts for votes
WATCH: Penn Jillette shreds ‘evil’ Donald Trump for appealing to ‘stupid’ conspiracy nuts for votes
"Penn Jillette explained the broad appeal presumptive GOP presidential nominee Donald Trump has with conspiracy-minded people, saying they are easily manipulated because they love simple answers to complex problems."
"Penn Jillette explained the broad appeal presumptive GOP presidential nominee Donald Trump has with conspiracy-minded people, saying they are easily manipulated because they love simple answers to complex problems."
The GOP Owns Trump University's Sleaze: Republicans Have Been Tolerant of Con Artists for Decades @alternet
The GOP Owns Trump University's Sleaze: Republicans Have Been Tolerant of Con Artists for Decades @alternet:
"Just as with his belligerent authoritarianism, embrace of conspiracy theories and racism, Trump’s grifter tendencies cannot be understood as a departure from regular Republican politics. Instead, this is just another case of Trump taking something that already existed in conservative circles and turning the volume up dramatically. Republicans have long had a broad acceptance for con artists and frauds using conservative rhetoric and channels to defraud people out of their hard-earned money.
"Just as with his belligerent authoritarianism, embrace of conspiracy theories and racism, Trump’s grifter tendencies cannot be understood as a departure from regular Republican politics. Instead, this is just another case of Trump taking something that already existed in conservative circles and turning the volume up dramatically. Republicans have long had a broad acceptance for con artists and frauds using conservative rhetoric and channels to defraud people out of their hard-earned money.
Saturday, June 4, 2016
Trump is a full-blown nutter: Here are 58 unhinged conspiracy theories the Republican leader has promoted
Trump is a full-blown nutter: Here are 58 unhinged conspiracy theories the Republican leader has promoted
"Presumptive Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump not only surrounds himself with conspiracy theorists, he has spent years pushing conspiracy theories himself, much to the delight of his supporters."
"Presumptive Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump not only surrounds himself with conspiracy theorists, he has spent years pushing conspiracy theories himself, much to the delight of his supporters."
Trump Has a $100 Million Conflict of Interest @alternet
Trump Has a $100 Million Conflict of Interest @alternet:
"What are the implications of the chief executive of the US government being in hock for $100 million (or more) to a foreign entity that has tried to evade laws aimed at curtailing risky financial shenanigans, that was recently caught manipulating markets around the world, and that attempts to influence the US government?"
"What are the implications of the chief executive of the US government being in hock for $100 million (or more) to a foreign entity that has tried to evade laws aimed at curtailing risky financial shenanigans, that was recently caught manipulating markets around the world, and that attempts to influence the US government?"
Trump University: Just Another Conservative Fraud
Trump University: Just Another Conservative Fraud:
"Across the conservative media, scams targeting vulnerable populations are commonplace. RedState.com once told its email list that in 1985 Ronald Reagan was diagnosed with three forms of cancer and was cured not by “chemo” or “radiation,” but a “secret” and “CENSORED” treatment that they would reveal. WND, Dick Morris, Newsmax and Glenn Beck have sent similar emails. Newt Gingrich, Fox Business, Glenn Beck, Mike Huckabee, Alex Jones, WND and The Washington Times all promoted Stansberry & Associates, an investment firm that targeted conservative customers and was “fined $1.5 million for engaging in ‘deliberate fraud’ and profiting from ‘false statements.’ ” Potential Trump vice presidential pick Newt Gingrich has claimed in emails that "cancer was cured back in 1925," "the annual flu shot is nothing more than a BALD-FACED SCAM,” "Illuminati was behind every consequential wealth event of [2013]," and an “insider near Washington D.C. has just blown the lid off the 7 Deadly Drugs the U.S. Government can't wait for you to swallow." On his email list, Mike Huckabee has marketed, “a medical quack claiming Alzheimer's disease cures; a for-sale stock pundit that was fired from Fox; a financial firm that was fined by the government for engaging in ‘deliberate fraud’; and a survival food company that profits off of readers' fears of being ‘herded into FEMA camps.’” Ben Carson, the former presidential candidate tapped by Trump to lead his vice presidential search, “shilled for a quack-cures company that used misleading advertisements to promote its products to people with cancer, HIV, ALS and autism” and paid $7 million as part of a false marketing settlement. With the Right’s track record, the presumptive GOP nominee should be touting the fraudulent activity of Trump University as another example of his conservative credentials."
"Across the conservative media, scams targeting vulnerable populations are commonplace. RedState.com once told its email list that in 1985 Ronald Reagan was diagnosed with three forms of cancer and was cured not by “chemo” or “radiation,” but a “secret” and “CENSORED” treatment that they would reveal. WND, Dick Morris, Newsmax and Glenn Beck have sent similar emails. Newt Gingrich, Fox Business, Glenn Beck, Mike Huckabee, Alex Jones, WND and The Washington Times all promoted Stansberry & Associates, an investment firm that targeted conservative customers and was “fined $1.5 million for engaging in ‘deliberate fraud’ and profiting from ‘false statements.’ ” Potential Trump vice presidential pick Newt Gingrich has claimed in emails that "cancer was cured back in 1925," "the annual flu shot is nothing more than a BALD-FACED SCAM,” "Illuminati was behind every consequential wealth event of [2013]," and an “insider near Washington D.C. has just blown the lid off the 7 Deadly Drugs the U.S. Government can't wait for you to swallow." On his email list, Mike Huckabee has marketed, “a medical quack claiming Alzheimer's disease cures; a for-sale stock pundit that was fired from Fox; a financial firm that was fined by the government for engaging in ‘deliberate fraud’; and a survival food company that profits off of readers' fears of being ‘herded into FEMA camps.’” Ben Carson, the former presidential candidate tapped by Trump to lead his vice presidential search, “shilled for a quack-cures company that used misleading advertisements to promote its products to people with cancer, HIV, ALS and autism” and paid $7 million as part of a false marketing settlement. With the Right’s track record, the presumptive GOP nominee should be touting the fraudulent activity of Trump University as another example of his conservative credentials."
Secret Trump University Papers Reveal How Business Pumped ‘Students’ For Cash
http://addictinginfo.org/2016/05/31/secret-trump-university-papers-reveal-how-business-pumped-students-for-cash/
"The documents show how, rather than a real estate sales course, the Trump University system was designed to push people to pay for ever-increasing levels which they were told would lead to more and more lucrative business. In fact, as the lawsuits show, many were very unsatisfied with the experience. Even more damning is the fact that the business doesn’t even exist anymore, but is just another scheme that Trump slapped his name on in order to make a quick buck then ran away when it got complicated. Trump was apparently so concerned about the information in the sales documents coming out that he rescheduled the press conference he had to address his failure to give money to veterans groups to the same day the Trump University documents came out."
"The documents show how, rather than a real estate sales course, the Trump University system was designed to push people to pay for ever-increasing levels which they were told would lead to more and more lucrative business. In fact, as the lawsuits show, many were very unsatisfied with the experience. Even more damning is the fact that the business doesn’t even exist anymore, but is just another scheme that Trump slapped his name on in order to make a quick buck then ran away when it got complicated. Trump was apparently so concerned about the information in the sales documents coming out that he rescheduled the press conference he had to address his failure to give money to veterans groups to the same day the Trump University documents came out."
The most shocking parts of the Trump U ‘sales playbook’
The most shocking parts of the Trump U ‘sales playbook’
"Former employees and students of Trump University, Donald Trump’s now-defunct, unaccredited clearinghouse for real estate courses, have declared the business a scam in testimony released as part of a class-action lawsuit. In the sworn testimony recently unsealed by U.S. District Court Judge Gonzalo Curiel, two former employees describe Trump University as a get-rich-quick scheme orchestrated by the reality TV star at the expense of the financially unsavvy."
"Former employees and students of Trump University, Donald Trump’s now-defunct, unaccredited clearinghouse for real estate courses, have declared the business a scam in testimony released as part of a class-action lawsuit. In the sworn testimony recently unsealed by U.S. District Court Judge Gonzalo Curiel, two former employees describe Trump University as a get-rich-quick scheme orchestrated by the reality TV star at the expense of the financially unsavvy."
Trump Seeks To Whiten The Republican Party Even More
Trump Seeks To Whiten The Republican Party Even More
"Those of us who possess rudimentary cognitive skills can easily see that the Republican Party offers nothing for the majority of Americans, except for those who are white, male and wealthy. Since the demographics of this country are quickly shifting from a White majority to a much larger percentage of Hispanics making up our electorate, Donald Trump thought this was the opportune time to insult the living Hell out of any and every American of Latino descent."
"Those of us who possess rudimentary cognitive skills can easily see that the Republican Party offers nothing for the majority of Americans, except for those who are white, male and wealthy. Since the demographics of this country are quickly shifting from a White majority to a much larger percentage of Hispanics making up our electorate, Donald Trump thought this was the opportune time to insult the living Hell out of any and every American of Latino descent."
Birtherism and bigotry: These are the vile impulses driving voters to Trump — stop thinking it’s anything else
Birtherism and bigotry: These are the vile impulses driving voters to Trump — stop thinking it’s anything else
"Recall that Donald Trump was the King of the “Birthers,” the man who mainstreamed that inane conspiracy theory and continued to push it as recently as 2014"
"Recall that Donald Trump was the King of the “Birthers,” the man who mainstreamed that inane conspiracy theory and continued to push it as recently as 2014"
Trump Points Out 'His African-American' At Campaign Rally
Trump Points Out 'His African-American' At Campaign Rally
"The presumptive Republican nominee took a moment out at his mostly-white rally to claim he has 'tremendous support' from African-Americans. "Oh, look at my African-American over here. Look at him," Trump said, as he pointed out a gentleman in the audience."
"The presumptive Republican nominee took a moment out at his mostly-white rally to claim he has 'tremendous support' from African-Americans. "Oh, look at my African-American over here. Look at him," Trump said, as he pointed out a gentleman in the audience."
Hispanic GOP Commentator Slams Trump For His Racist Comments And Fraudulent University
http://addictinginfo.org/2016/06/03/hispanic-gop-commentator-slams-trump-for-his-racist-comments-and-fraudulent-university/
"Currently, only 14 percent of Hispanics have a favorable rating of Donald Trump. Among nonwhite women, which includes Hispanics and Latinas, the number is a record low 9 percent."
"Currently, only 14 percent of Hispanics have a favorable rating of Donald Trump. Among nonwhite women, which includes Hispanics and Latinas, the number is a record low 9 percent."
New Information From Texas AG Proves "Trump University" Was a Fraudulent Scam
New Information From Texas AG Proves "Trump University" Was a Fraudulent Scam
"To summarize: Trump University was pushed out of Texas after the state’s attorney general’s office opened up a deceptive practices investigation and found that, not only was the advice they were giving illegal, but they were selling people goals that were “virtually impossible to achieve.” That’s called a scam. It’s nothing more than a bunch of con men luring people in under the guise of “getting an education,” asking for thousands of dollars in exchange for advice that was illegal and unrealistic."
"To summarize: Trump University was pushed out of Texas after the state’s attorney general’s office opened up a deceptive practices investigation and found that, not only was the advice they were giving illegal, but they were selling people goals that were “virtually impossible to achieve.” That’s called a scam. It’s nothing more than a bunch of con men luring people in under the guise of “getting an education,” asking for thousands of dollars in exchange for advice that was illegal and unrealistic."
Ex-Texas Official Says He Was Ordered To Drop Trump U Probe Due To Politics
http://talkingpointsmemo.com/news/texas-regulator-says-ordered-drop-fraud-investigation-trump-university-over-politics
"Republican Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton moved Friday to muzzle a former state regulator who says he was ordered in 2010 to drop a fraud investigation into Trump University for political reasons. Paxton's office issued a cease and desist letter to former Deputy Chief of Consumer Protection John Owens after he made public copies of a 14-page internal summary of the state's case against Donald Trump for scamming millions from students of his now-defunct real estate seminar. Owens, now retired, said his team had built a solid case against the now-presumptive Republican presidential nominee, but was told to drop it after Trump's company agreed to cease operations in Texas. The former state regulator told The Associated Press on Friday that decision was highly unusual and left the bilked students on their own to attempt to recover their tuition money from the celebrity businessman. According to the documents provided by Owens, his team sought to sue Trump, his company and several business associates to help recover more than $2.6 million students spent on seminars and materials, plus another $2.8 million in penalties and fees. Owens said he was so surprised at the order to stand down he made a copy of the case file and took it home. "It had to be political in my mind because Donald Trump was treated differently than any other similarly situated scam artist in the 16 years I was at the consumer protection office," said Owens, who lives in Houston. Owens' boss at the time was then-Attorney General Greg Abbott, who is now the state's GOP governor. The Associated Press first reported Thursday that Trump gave donations totaling $35,000 to Abbott's gubernatorial campaign three years after his office closed the Trump U case. Several Texas media outlets then reported Owens' accusation that the probe was dropped for political reasons."
"Republican Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton moved Friday to muzzle a former state regulator who says he was ordered in 2010 to drop a fraud investigation into Trump University for political reasons. Paxton's office issued a cease and desist letter to former Deputy Chief of Consumer Protection John Owens after he made public copies of a 14-page internal summary of the state's case against Donald Trump for scamming millions from students of his now-defunct real estate seminar. Owens, now retired, said his team had built a solid case against the now-presumptive Republican presidential nominee, but was told to drop it after Trump's company agreed to cease operations in Texas. The former state regulator told The Associated Press on Friday that decision was highly unusual and left the bilked students on their own to attempt to recover their tuition money from the celebrity businessman. According to the documents provided by Owens, his team sought to sue Trump, his company and several business associates to help recover more than $2.6 million students spent on seminars and materials, plus another $2.8 million in penalties and fees. Owens said he was so surprised at the order to stand down he made a copy of the case file and took it home. "It had to be political in my mind because Donald Trump was treated differently than any other similarly situated scam artist in the 16 years I was at the consumer protection office," said Owens, who lives in Houston. Owens' boss at the time was then-Attorney General Greg Abbott, who is now the state's GOP governor. The Associated Press first reported Thursday that Trump gave donations totaling $35,000 to Abbott's gubernatorial campaign three years after his office closed the Trump U case. Several Texas media outlets then reported Owens' accusation that the probe was dropped for political reasons."
Appeals court upholds fraud charges against Texas Attorney General Paxton
Appeals court upholds fraud charges against Texas Attorney General Paxton
"Paxton was indicted by a grand jury last year on charges of defrauding investors and illegally acting as a securities agent. He faces similar charges in federal court."
"Paxton was indicted by a grand jury last year on charges of defrauding investors and illegally acting as a securities agent. He faces similar charges in federal court."
TX Rs seek to muzzle whistleblower who can prove they sided with Trump U over 456 ordinary Texans
http://www.dailykos.com/stories/2016/6/4/1534387/-TX-Rs-seek-to-muzzle-whistleblower-who-can-prove-they-sided-with-Trump-U-over-456-ordinary-Texans
"Greg Abbott, the current Republican governor of Texas, used to be the Texas Attorney General. The Dallas Morning News had a big story this week: a retired employee of the Texas AG’s office, who worked under Abbott and was commended by him, gave the paper documents that prove that Abott’s AG staff had researched an prepared a case against Trump University for bilking citizens of Texas out of more than $2.6 million. They planned to claw that money back as restitution for the victims, and seek another $2.8 million in fines and costs for the state of Texas."
"Greg Abbott, the current Republican governor of Texas, used to be the Texas Attorney General. The Dallas Morning News had a big story this week: a retired employee of the Texas AG’s office, who worked under Abbott and was commended by him, gave the paper documents that prove that Abott’s AG staff had researched an prepared a case against Trump University for bilking citizens of Texas out of more than $2.6 million. They planned to claw that money back as restitution for the victims, and seek another $2.8 million in fines and costs for the state of Texas."
The Most Fearsome Hawk of All: Donald Trump's Careless, Brutal Plans for the U.S. Put the World in Peril @alternet
The Most Fearsome Hawk of All: Donald Trump's Careless, Brutal Plans for the U.S. Put the World in Peril @alternet:
"Trump’s plan is to use American ground troops to forcibly seize the most valuable resource in two different sovereign countries. The word for that is colonialism. Trump wants to wage war in the name of explicitly ransacking poorer countries for their natural resources"
"Trump’s plan is to use American ground troops to forcibly seize the most valuable resource in two different sovereign countries. The word for that is colonialism. Trump wants to wage war in the name of explicitly ransacking poorer countries for their natural resources"
Take the Quiz! Trump or authoritarian? Who said it?
http://www.dailykos.com/stories/2016/5/31/1532877/-Take-the-Quiz-Trump-or-authoritarian-Who-said-it
"So here we are, in the greatest democracy on earth, with a national leader (and like it or not, Trump is now a “national leader”) standing behind a podium sounding like an authoritarian politician drunk with power. As an American, regardless of party, I’m shocked. I’ve come to expect this in other parts of the world. Not here at home. And Trump audaciously promises that if he is elected, this is how it’s going to be: “If you think I’m going to change, I’m not changing.” Ugh. One Erdogan on the world stage is enough."
"So here we are, in the greatest democracy on earth, with a national leader (and like it or not, Trump is now a “national leader”) standing behind a podium sounding like an authoritarian politician drunk with power. As an American, regardless of party, I’m shocked. I’ve come to expect this in other parts of the world. Not here at home. And Trump audaciously promises that if he is elected, this is how it’s going to be: “If you think I’m going to change, I’m not changing.” Ugh. One Erdogan on the world stage is enough."
A Look At What Political Press Could Face Under A Donald Trump Presidency
http://thinkprogress.org/politics/2016/05/31/3783354/trump-press-conference/
"by effectively using carrots of access and the sticks of public shaming, he has curried favorable coverage and convinced his supporters that any critical pieces about him are full of lies."
"by effectively using carrots of access and the sticks of public shaming, he has curried favorable coverage and convinced his supporters that any critical pieces about him are full of lies."
Trump Exploited a Loophole to Pocket 150k in Funding Meant for Small Businesses Affected by 9/11 @alternet
Trump Exploited a Loophole to Pocket 150k in Funding Meant for Small Businesses Affected by 9/11 @alternet:
"Considering his willingness to snatch up public funds designated for those less fortunate, it’s a tad ironic that Trump is so unwilling to pay his fair taxes. The Republican frontrunner has repeatedly said his tax rate is none of the public’s business, noting he fights “very hard to pay as little tax as possible.” And a USA Today analysis published Thursday found Trump’s businesses are currently engaged in over 100 lawsuits over unpaid taxes and tax-related disputes."
"Considering his willingness to snatch up public funds designated for those less fortunate, it’s a tad ironic that Trump is so unwilling to pay his fair taxes. The Republican frontrunner has repeatedly said his tax rate is none of the public’s business, noting he fights “very hard to pay as little tax as possible.” And a USA Today analysis published Thursday found Trump’s businesses are currently engaged in over 100 lawsuits over unpaid taxes and tax-related disputes."
Wednesday, June 1, 2016
How Trump scammed students and blames those who hold him accountable
How Trump scammed students and blames those who hold him accountable
"So what exactly does Trump think constitutes as a “total disgrace?” It might be the fact that his so-called “university” scammed students out of as much as $35,000 for an unaccredited “education.” Of course unsealing the documents shines yet another negative light on the Republican nominee and his careless disregard for anyone or anything other than himself and his pocketbook. In fact, Trump is currently facing three separate lawsuits that allege that his shady business defrauded students and broke state laws. The unsealed documents have already revealed some of the empty promises that Trump made to students, including a one-page personal message he sent to new enrollees."
"So what exactly does Trump think constitutes as a “total disgrace?” It might be the fact that his so-called “university” scammed students out of as much as $35,000 for an unaccredited “education.” Of course unsealing the documents shines yet another negative light on the Republican nominee and his careless disregard for anyone or anything other than himself and his pocketbook. In fact, Trump is currently facing three separate lawsuits that allege that his shady business defrauded students and broke state laws. The unsealed documents have already revealed some of the empty promises that Trump made to students, including a one-page personal message he sent to new enrollees."
‘A fraudulent scheme’: Former Trump University manager says they ‘preyed upon the elderly and uneducated’
‘A fraudulent scheme’: Former Trump University manager says they ‘preyed upon the elderly and uneducated’
"Nearly 400 pages of documents were unsealed by a federal judge Tuesday after a lawsuit was filed alleging that the institute scammed thousands of people who enrolled in a program by giving the impression it was an accredited academic institution. The documents include "playbooks" regarding running the enterprise and how to sell programs to customers. The playbook reportedly guides employees to assign ranks to potential students based on “who has the most and least liquid assets.” The courses at the university started at $1,495, with the most expensive option, known as gold elite, costing $34,995, the Time reported."
"Nearly 400 pages of documents were unsealed by a federal judge Tuesday after a lawsuit was filed alleging that the institute scammed thousands of people who enrolled in a program by giving the impression it was an accredited academic institution. The documents include "playbooks" regarding running the enterprise and how to sell programs to customers. The playbook reportedly guides employees to assign ranks to potential students based on “who has the most and least liquid assets.” The courses at the university started at $1,495, with the most expensive option, known as gold elite, costing $34,995, the Time reported."
Trump University Documents Expose Presumptive Con-Man-in-Chief
Trump University Documents Expose Presumptive Con-Man-in-Chief
"A swindle and a sham that "preyed upon the elderly and uneducated to separate them from their money" is how people who worked for Trump University described the methods behind the self-titled, now-defunct real estate education program run by the presumptive Republican nominee."
"A swindle and a sham that "preyed upon the elderly and uneducated to separate them from their money" is how people who worked for Trump University described the methods behind the self-titled, now-defunct real estate education program run by the presumptive Republican nominee."
Donald Trump is a thief: Trump University documents reveal a strictly regimented scam operation
Donald Trump is a thief: Trump University documents reveal a strictly regimented scam operation
"How Trump University "consultants" swindled the financially vulnerable into buying a worthless product"
"How Trump University "consultants" swindled the financially vulnerable into buying a worthless product"
Trump Has a Conflict-of-Interest Problem No Other White House Candidate Ever Had
http://www.motherjones.com/politics/2016/06/trump-german-loan-deutsche-bank
"What are the implications of the chief executive of the US government being in hock for $100 million (or more) to a foreign entity that has tried to evade laws aimed at curtailing risky financial shenanigans, that was recently caught manipulating markets around the world, and that attempts to influence the US government? Trump's disclosure form lists 16 loans from 11 different lenders, totaling at least $335 million, and the aggregate amount is likely much more."
"What are the implications of the chief executive of the US government being in hock for $100 million (or more) to a foreign entity that has tried to evade laws aimed at curtailing risky financial shenanigans, that was recently caught manipulating markets around the world, and that attempts to influence the US government? Trump's disclosure form lists 16 loans from 11 different lenders, totaling at least $335 million, and the aggregate amount is likely much more."
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