Missed the Rep debate on the economy, so downloaded the whole thing from the NY Times website. Since it's about the economy, maybe I could apply a grade to each candidate.
How amusing.
It was all about scoring points and not about the country or the issues.
A few times some serious issues were raised - by Paul, Tancredo and Romney - issues about middle class, unions, job loss from free trade, etc.
But, the only solutions were the usual Rep bromides: lower taxes, free trade and worship of the 'market' as the answer to all problems temporal or spiritual.
Perhaps the 'market' will devalue the old bromides and install change next year.
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
Saturday, October 6, 2007
Grunt Work
Raising money is tedious work with not much to report.
Will take a break to visit grandchildren, play old man baseball between Oct 14 and 31.
ciao
Will take a break to visit grandchildren, play old man baseball between Oct 14 and 31.
ciao
Tuesday, October 2, 2007
Show Me the Money
Attended a couple of Hillary events - a street rally in Oakland and a private fund raiser in wealthy Tiburon.
Most people in Oakland were white, although she made some points by getting Oakland's mayor to endorse her over Obama. Many waited in line two hours to catch just a glimpse.
Also, she raised $27 mill for the quarter.
Preliminary reactions: biggest cheers come from women who cheer her as the probable first woman president. Hillary, however, does not make a big issue of that.
Second biggest cheers are anti-Bush.
But, there is a core of Hillary haters who will probably stoop to unconscionable extremes in the coming months. Pity.
Most people in Oakland were white, although she made some points by getting Oakland's mayor to endorse her over Obama. Many waited in line two hours to catch just a glimpse.
Also, she raised $27 mill for the quarter.
Preliminary reactions: biggest cheers come from women who cheer her as the probable first woman president. Hillary, however, does not make a big issue of that.
Second biggest cheers are anti-Bush.
But, there is a core of Hillary haters who will probably stoop to unconscionable extremes in the coming months. Pity.
Wednesday, September 26, 2007
Hillary
Sorry for the delay.
I have been thinking about all the candidates and have decided to enter the battle. This election is too important to just watch and I have some time.
Conclusion: I will try to raise money for Hillary.
Reasons:
1. All the Reps are dangerous for the future of the country.
2. Conventional wisdom is that the next pres will be a Dem.
3. Barack is good, but he needs more experience and some time for the country to accept a black man.
4. Hillary is likely winner because she is ahead and none of the other Dems show any real promise at this point.
5. Hillary is fundamentally sound - although not perfect - and she has made very few mistakes so far.
more to follow.................
I have been thinking about all the candidates and have decided to enter the battle. This election is too important to just watch and I have some time.
Conclusion: I will try to raise money for Hillary.
Reasons:
1. All the Reps are dangerous for the future of the country.
2. Conventional wisdom is that the next pres will be a Dem.
3. Barack is good, but he needs more experience and some time for the country to accept a black man.
4. Hillary is likely winner because she is ahead and none of the other Dems show any real promise at this point.
5. Hillary is fundamentally sound - although not perfect - and she has made very few mistakes so far.
more to follow.................
Saturday, September 15, 2007
National Security
This is THE critical subject for the next president - if he or she doesn't get it right our grandchildren will live in a much worse world.
I think our national security is defined as living without fear of violence from home or abroad where families can go about their daily business in peace.
It is job one of the national government.
Part of national security is having and maintaining a military force strong enough to counter armed threats from abroad or terror from home or abroad.
Critical to that strength is an economy strong enough to pay for the required military.
But, military and economic strength alone is not enough to guarantee that security.
Here's why: DARPA estimates that the USA spends one million dollars for every dollar the enemy spends in Iraq. Since Al Queda seems to have a zero cost, inexhaustible supply of suicide bombers willing to blow themselves up with $1.95 worth of explosives, the only true national security for the USA is to reduce or eliminate the supply of potential martyrs.
Clearly it will not take too many more potential martyrs attacking the USA to bankrupt the country at a spending ratio of one million to one.
[Tongue in cheek here] This, of course, is the market solution to the problem of having a world where many very poor people hate a large, rich country like the USA. The market says let suicide bombers blow themselves up until equilibrium is reached where the spending of the rich country to protect itself nearly bankrupts the rich country and the cost of securing martyrs rises to meet the spending of the rich country.
This is economics gone mad, but it seems to be where we are heading.
A sensible national security policy for the USA will be to try to reduce the supply of martyrs and thus raise their cost. Blowing up training camps will be helpful in that effort, but the true solution lies in reducing the numbers of potential martyrs who want to be trained.
That has to be a many faceted effort. More jobs in poor Muslim countries. Better economic growth in all countries. Also, the USA should reach out to influential Muslims to find the common ground of beliefs and nurture relationships with those people. Then perhaps we can encourage some Muslims to make the act of martyrdom less attractive.
Further, we should stop doing things which are against our ideals and are likely to make people hate us even more - things like torture and bombing civilians, for example.
The Reps are particularly handicapped when dealing with this problem for several reasons.
First, much of their campaign funds come from the military/industrial/oil complex which has vested interests in continuing a war-like society. Rep presidents are likely to continue with a warlike policy to appease their base.
Second, Reps share a common belief that markets will solve any problem and that any government interference in markets is a bad thing. But, these issues require a sensible government interference to avoid a disaster.
Third, most Rep candidates simply do not address or think about these issues and are unprepared to deal with them. When faced with the real world, they are likely to panic and retreat into a single policy response of force.
Fourth, many Reps and their conservative base don't like to think about or have contact with people who are different than they are: black people, Muslims, French, whatever. But the real world will continue to force itself into our awareness whether we like it or not.
Thus, a Rep candidate if elected will likely reduce the national security of the United States.
As far as the Dems go, seems like some Dems are thinking about the problem and I'd like to see someone who has thought about these questions in the White House in 2008.
ciao.
mckeever
I think our national security is defined as living without fear of violence from home or abroad where families can go about their daily business in peace.
It is job one of the national government.
Part of national security is having and maintaining a military force strong enough to counter armed threats from abroad or terror from home or abroad.
Critical to that strength is an economy strong enough to pay for the required military.
But, military and economic strength alone is not enough to guarantee that security.
Here's why: DARPA estimates that the USA spends one million dollars for every dollar the enemy spends in Iraq. Since Al Queda seems to have a zero cost, inexhaustible supply of suicide bombers willing to blow themselves up with $1.95 worth of explosives, the only true national security for the USA is to reduce or eliminate the supply of potential martyrs.
Clearly it will not take too many more potential martyrs attacking the USA to bankrupt the country at a spending ratio of one million to one.
[Tongue in cheek here] This, of course, is the market solution to the problem of having a world where many very poor people hate a large, rich country like the USA. The market says let suicide bombers blow themselves up until equilibrium is reached where the spending of the rich country to protect itself nearly bankrupts the rich country and the cost of securing martyrs rises to meet the spending of the rich country.
This is economics gone mad, but it seems to be where we are heading.
A sensible national security policy for the USA will be to try to reduce the supply of martyrs and thus raise their cost. Blowing up training camps will be helpful in that effort, but the true solution lies in reducing the numbers of potential martyrs who want to be trained.
That has to be a many faceted effort. More jobs in poor Muslim countries. Better economic growth in all countries. Also, the USA should reach out to influential Muslims to find the common ground of beliefs and nurture relationships with those people. Then perhaps we can encourage some Muslims to make the act of martyrdom less attractive.
Further, we should stop doing things which are against our ideals and are likely to make people hate us even more - things like torture and bombing civilians, for example.
The Reps are particularly handicapped when dealing with this problem for several reasons.
First, much of their campaign funds come from the military/industrial/oil complex which has vested interests in continuing a war-like society. Rep presidents are likely to continue with a warlike policy to appease their base.
Second, Reps share a common belief that markets will solve any problem and that any government interference in markets is a bad thing. But, these issues require a sensible government interference to avoid a disaster.
Third, most Rep candidates simply do not address or think about these issues and are unprepared to deal with them. When faced with the real world, they are likely to panic and retreat into a single policy response of force.
Fourth, many Reps and their conservative base don't like to think about or have contact with people who are different than they are: black people, Muslims, French, whatever. But the real world will continue to force itself into our awareness whether we like it or not.
Thus, a Rep candidate if elected will likely reduce the national security of the United States.
As far as the Dems go, seems like some Dems are thinking about the problem and I'd like to see someone who has thought about these questions in the White House in 2008.
ciao.
mckeever
Friday, September 14, 2007
Iraq
Had the chance to watch General Petraeus testify before the House last week.
Clearly he is an impressive salesman, although I have no historical context to judge whether his numbers are correct and must leave judgment to others.
Then watched Bush discuss the General's information.
Normally most of us would like the President to digest information and make decisions. But, Bush has lost any credibility by failing to acknowledge any options.
While teaching university students to present ideas or programs I asked them to be sure to present at least two sides of each issue because presenting only one side makes the presenter foolish.
So, here is a request: Mr. President, please be quiet. We have to make decisions and you just confuse the issues by acting a fool. Your employees are much better at your job than you are, so please keep out of their way.
Thank you Mr. President.
Clearly he is an impressive salesman, although I have no historical context to judge whether his numbers are correct and must leave judgment to others.
Then watched Bush discuss the General's information.
Normally most of us would like the President to digest information and make decisions. But, Bush has lost any credibility by failing to acknowledge any options.
While teaching university students to present ideas or programs I asked them to be sure to present at least two sides of each issue because presenting only one side makes the presenter foolish.
So, here is a request: Mr. President, please be quiet. We have to make decisions and you just confuse the issues by acting a fool. Your employees are much better at your job than you are, so please keep out of their way.
Thank you Mr. President.
Saturday, August 25, 2007
Vacation Break
The blog will be on vacation til September 15. Will attempt to deal with National Security and Rep vs Dems on return.
Thanks for your interest.
Ciao,
McKeever
Thanks for your interest.
Ciao,
McKeever
Monday, August 13, 2007
Bush and The Prince
Machiavelli is always relevant but seems especially so in the USA today.
The Prince by Nicolo Machiavelli
CHAPTER IX
Concerning A Civil Principality
BUT coming to the other point — where a leading citizen becomes the prince [for prince, read Bush] of his country, not by wickedness or any intolerable violence, but by the favour of his fellow citizens — this may be called a civil principality: nor is genius or fortune altogether necessary to attain to it, but rather a happy shrewdness. I say then that such a principality is obtained either by the favour of the people or by the favour of the nobles. Because in all cities these two distinct parties are found, and from this it arises that the people do not wish to be ruled nor oppressed by the nobles [For nobles, read the Military/Industrial/Oil Complex], and the nobles wish to rule and oppress the people; and from these two opposite desires there arises in cities one of three results, either a principality, self-government, or anarchy.
A principality is created either by the people or by the nobles, accordingly as one or other of them has the opportunity; for the nobles, seeing they cannot withstand the people, begin to cry up the reputation of one of themselves, and they make him a prince, so that under his shadow they can give vent to their ambitions. The people, finding they cannot resist the nobles, also cry up the reputation of one of themselves, and make him a prince so as to be defended by his authority. He who obtains sovereignty by the assistance of the nobles maintains himself with more difficulty than he who comes to it by the aid of the people, because the former finds himself with many around him who consider themselves his equals, and because of this he can neither rule nor manage them to his liking. But he who reaches sovereignty by popular favour finds himself alone, and has none around him, or few, who are not prepared to obey him.
Besides this, one cannot by fair dealing, and without injury to others, satisfy the nobles, but you can satisfy the people, for their object is more righteous than that of the nobles, the latter wishing to oppress, whilst the former only desire not to be oppressed. It is to be added also that a prince can never secure himself against a hostile people, because of their being too many, whilst from the nobles he can secure himself, as they are few in number. The worst that a prince may expect from a hostile people is to be abandoned by them; but from hostile nobles he has not only to fear abandonment, but also that they will rise against him; for they, being in these affairs more far-seeing and astute, always come forward in time to save themselves, and to obtain favours from him whom they expect to prevail. Further, the prince is compelled to live always with the same people, but he can do well without the same nobles, being able to make and unmake them daily, and to give or take away authority when it pleases him.
The Prince by Nicolo Machiavelli
CHAPTER IX
Concerning A Civil Principality
BUT coming to the other point — where a leading citizen becomes the prince [for prince, read Bush] of his country, not by wickedness or any intolerable violence, but by the favour of his fellow citizens — this may be called a civil principality: nor is genius or fortune altogether necessary to attain to it, but rather a happy shrewdness. I say then that such a principality is obtained either by the favour of the people or by the favour of the nobles. Because in all cities these two distinct parties are found, and from this it arises that the people do not wish to be ruled nor oppressed by the nobles [For nobles, read the Military/Industrial/Oil Complex], and the nobles wish to rule and oppress the people; and from these two opposite desires there arises in cities one of three results, either a principality, self-government, or anarchy.
A principality is created either by the people or by the nobles, accordingly as one or other of them has the opportunity; for the nobles, seeing they cannot withstand the people, begin to cry up the reputation of one of themselves, and they make him a prince, so that under his shadow they can give vent to their ambitions. The people, finding they cannot resist the nobles, also cry up the reputation of one of themselves, and make him a prince so as to be defended by his authority. He who obtains sovereignty by the assistance of the nobles maintains himself with more difficulty than he who comes to it by the aid of the people, because the former finds himself with many around him who consider themselves his equals, and because of this he can neither rule nor manage them to his liking. But he who reaches sovereignty by popular favour finds himself alone, and has none around him, or few, who are not prepared to obey him.
Besides this, one cannot by fair dealing, and without injury to others, satisfy the nobles, but you can satisfy the people, for their object is more righteous than that of the nobles, the latter wishing to oppress, whilst the former only desire not to be oppressed. It is to be added also that a prince can never secure himself against a hostile people, because of their being too many, whilst from the nobles he can secure himself, as they are few in number. The worst that a prince may expect from a hostile people is to be abandoned by them; but from hostile nobles he has not only to fear abandonment, but also that they will rise against him; for they, being in these affairs more far-seeing and astute, always come forward in time to save themselves, and to obtain favours from him whom they expect to prevail. Further, the prince is compelled to live always with the same people, but he can do well without the same nobles, being able to make and unmake them daily, and to give or take away authority when it pleases him.
Saturday, August 11, 2007
Mike Huckabee
Here's how Mike Huckabee's [http://www.mikehuckabee.com/index.cfm?FuseAction=Issues.Home] issue positions compare to the nine critical points. Lots of verbiage about conservative hot buttons, very little about the country.
1.Political Corruption: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
2. Military/Industrial Complex: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
3. Energy: Score 1
Actually has thought about alternatives and wants energy independence.
4. Unions - Labor and Consumer: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
5. Income and Wealth Disparity: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
6. Elections: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
7. Judicial Independence: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
8. Trade deficits: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
9. Usury Law: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
Huckabee scores 1 of 9 for a .110 average, Trade bait only, do not play
1.Political Corruption: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
2. Military/Industrial Complex: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
3. Energy: Score 1
Actually has thought about alternatives and wants energy independence.
4. Unions - Labor and Consumer: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
5. Income and Wealth Disparity: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
6. Elections: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
7. Judicial Independence: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
8. Trade deficits: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
9. Usury Law: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
Huckabee scores 1 of 9 for a .110 average, Trade bait only, do not play
Wednesday, August 8, 2007
MIC
Had the pleasure to watch the Dem debate from the AFL/CIO last night and was impressed by all the candidates' passion and grasp of the issues. Was not able to see the Repub debate, but will try to catch the next one.
Kudos to Keith Olberman for holding the Dems feet to the fire on many of the real issues.
Hillary made a point of saying that she would continue to accept lobbyist donations but had proven her ability to stand up to the corporate interests in her past fights with the pharma and insurance industries - she claimed that donations would not influence her policies.
So here's a question: Can she stand up to the MIC? This is the acid test.
Here's a suggestion on one way to do it: list all the officers who have served in the DC area in either high level positions or in the procurement function for more than ten years. Then, transfer them to Iraq, retirement or Europe so they can't interact with the contractors any more. Last, install competitive bidding on all contracts over one million.
This might reduce the MIC's influence if successful. I would predict resistance to the idea, so if the next president chooses this option, it should be treated with caution and secrecy.
Kudos to Keith Olberman for holding the Dems feet to the fire on many of the real issues.
Hillary made a point of saying that she would continue to accept lobbyist donations but had proven her ability to stand up to the corporate interests in her past fights with the pharma and insurance industries - she claimed that donations would not influence her policies.
So here's a question: Can she stand up to the MIC? This is the acid test.
Here's a suggestion on one way to do it: list all the officers who have served in the DC area in either high level positions or in the procurement function for more than ten years. Then, transfer them to Iraq, retirement or Europe so they can't interact with the contractors any more. Last, install competitive bidding on all contracts over one million.
This might reduce the MIC's influence if successful. I would predict resistance to the idea, so if the next president chooses this option, it should be treated with caution and secrecy.
Thursday, August 2, 2007
Fred Thompson - Comment
Thanks for the comment, Jeff.
But, my approach is straightforward: I compare the web site published comments of each candidate to nine specific problems we face as a country.
It is, I think, the responsibility of each serious candidate for President to clearly and succinctly establish his positions so that they are accessible to the electorate. A candidate who fails to do that can be accused of dissembling, obfuscation and a longer list of adjectives.
Thompson has not provided access to his positions.
My comment stands.
mckeever
But, my approach is straightforward: I compare the web site published comments of each candidate to nine specific problems we face as a country.
It is, I think, the responsibility of each serious candidate for President to clearly and succinctly establish his positions so that they are accessible to the electorate. A candidate who fails to do that can be accused of dissembling, obfuscation and a longer list of adjectives.
Thompson has not provided access to his positions.
My comment stands.
mckeever
Fred Thompson
Fred Thompson is running, excuse me - 'testing the waters', but he has said NOTHING about ANY issue [https://www.imwithfred.com]. He is a total 'pig-in-a-poke'. Yet he shows as the number two candidate in some Republican polls.
Perhaps some enterprising person can list his donors to see where he would lead the country.
Score Zero on everything. Do not let him into the stadium, even as an usher.
Perhaps some enterprising person can list his donors to see where he would lead the country.
Score Zero on everything. Do not let him into the stadium, even as an usher.
Sunday, July 29, 2007
Newt Gingrich
Here's how Newt Gingrich's [http://www.draftnewt.org/on_the_issues/index.php] issue positions compare to the nine critical points.
Newt is not yet running, but a supporter group has reproduced his stands on many issues. He seems to be an extreme supporter of Classical economics who believes the market can solve all issues. I think Gingrich would simply continue the present administrations's policies.
1.Political Corruption: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
2. Military/Industrial Complex: Score 0
Strong supporter of MIC - wish I had negative scores.
3. Energy: Score 1
Actually has thought about alternatives and wants to support research.
4. Unions - Labor and Consumer: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
5. Income and Wealth Disparity: Score 0
Expresses concern about Social Security's future effects on working people - add 0.5, but his solution is to privatize it - subtract 0.5
6. Elections: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
7. Judicial Independence: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
8. Trade deficits: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
9. Usury Law: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
Gingrich scores 1 of 9 for a .110 average, Trade bait only, do not play
Newt is not yet running, but a supporter group has reproduced his stands on many issues. He seems to be an extreme supporter of Classical economics who believes the market can solve all issues. I think Gingrich would simply continue the present administrations's policies.
1.Political Corruption: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
2. Military/Industrial Complex: Score 0
Strong supporter of MIC - wish I had negative scores.
3. Energy: Score 1
Actually has thought about alternatives and wants to support research.
4. Unions - Labor and Consumer: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
5. Income and Wealth Disparity: Score 0
Expresses concern about Social Security's future effects on working people - add 0.5, but his solution is to privatize it - subtract 0.5
6. Elections: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
7. Judicial Independence: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
8. Trade deficits: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
9. Usury Law: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
Gingrich scores 1 of 9 for a .110 average, Trade bait only, do not play
Wednesday, July 18, 2007
Chris Dodd
Here's Chris Dodd according to his 2008 web site: [http://www.chrisdodd.com/].
1.Political Corruption: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
2. Military/Industrial Complex: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
3. Energy: Score 1
Has a plan for energy security
4. Unions - Labor and Consumer: Score 1
In favor
5. Income and Wealth Disparity: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
6. Elections: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
7. Judicial Independence: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
8. Trade deficits: Score 0.5
By implication
9. Usury Law: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
Dodd scores 2.5 of 9 for a .278 average, needs seasoning in the minors.
1.Political Corruption: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
2. Military/Industrial Complex: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
3. Energy: Score 1
Has a plan for energy security
4. Unions - Labor and Consumer: Score 1
In favor
5. Income and Wealth Disparity: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
6. Elections: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
7. Judicial Independence: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
8. Trade deficits: Score 0.5
By implication
9. Usury Law: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
Dodd scores 2.5 of 9 for a .278 average, needs seasoning in the minors.
Joe Biden
Here's Joe Biden according to his 2008 web site: [http://www.joebiden.com/issues/].
But, his focus is different and he scores poorly, similarly to Republicans.
1.Political Corruption: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
2. Military/Industrial Complex: Score 0
No Mention - surprise
3. Energy: Score 1
Has a plan for energy security
4. Unions - Labor and Consumer: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
5. Income and Wealth Disparity: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
6. Elections: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
7. Judicial Independence: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
8. Trade deficits: Score 0.5
By implication
9. Usury Law: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
Biden scores 1.5 of 9 for a .167 average, needs seasoning in the minors.
But, his focus is different and he scores poorly, similarly to Republicans.
1.Political Corruption: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
2. Military/Industrial Complex: Score 0
No Mention - surprise
3. Energy: Score 1
Has a plan for energy security
4. Unions - Labor and Consumer: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
5. Income and Wealth Disparity: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
6. Elections: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
7. Judicial Independence: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
8. Trade deficits: Score 0.5
By implication
9. Usury Law: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
Biden scores 1.5 of 9 for a .167 average, needs seasoning in the minors.
Ralph Nader
Here's how Ralph Nader measures up according to his 2008 web site: [http://www.votenader.org/issues].
Mr. Nader has run as an Independent and as a Green.
1.Political Corruption: Score 1
Discusses publicly finance election under media concentration
2. Military/Industrial Complex: Score 0
No Mention - surprise
3. Energy: Score 0
No Mention - surprise
4. Unions - Labor and Consumer: Score 1
Strong on consumer and labor proetection
5. Income and Wealth Disparity: Score 0
No Mention - surprise
6. Elections: Score 1
Several specific statements about electoral rfeform
7. Judicial Independence: Score 0
No Mention - surprise
8. Trade deficits: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
9. Usury Law: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
Nader scores 3 of 9 for a .333, bat him after Bill Richardson
Mr. Nader has run as an Independent and as a Green.
1.Political Corruption: Score 1
Discusses publicly finance election under media concentration
2. Military/Industrial Complex: Score 0
No Mention - surprise
3. Energy: Score 0
No Mention - surprise
4. Unions - Labor and Consumer: Score 1
Strong on consumer and labor proetection
5. Income and Wealth Disparity: Score 0
No Mention - surprise
6. Elections: Score 1
Several specific statements about electoral rfeform
7. Judicial Independence: Score 0
No Mention - surprise
8. Trade deficits: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
9. Usury Law: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
Nader scores 3 of 9 for a .333, bat him after Bill Richardson
Sunday, July 15, 2007
Where are the Republicans?
I have been trying figure out why there are no Repoublicans on my roster. I did not set out to be partisan on purpose.
As a student of economics, here's my best guess: Republicans are committed to the form of classical economics now known as the Neo-Liberal or Washington Consensus. Consistent with that belief is the conviction that the market will solve all problems for all people and that any government intervention is bad for people.
My nine points all require a strong government intervention into affairs to avoid a disaster for the American idea.
Regardless of the fact that the Neo-Liberal Consensus is dramatically disproven as an effective framework for national economic policies [see for example: IDEAS, POLICIES AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT IN THE AMERICAS, Esteban Perez Caldentey and Matias Vernengo, editors, Routledge, 2007 New York; ISBN10 0-415-77055-6 [hbk]], Republicans seem to hold to this concept. Therefore, they are likely to oppose any government action which affects any market.
Until that changes, any Republican administration is likely to threaten the American idea, or at least my personal understanding of it.
As a student of economics, here's my best guess: Republicans are committed to the form of classical economics now known as the Neo-Liberal or Washington Consensus. Consistent with that belief is the conviction that the market will solve all problems for all people and that any government intervention is bad for people.
My nine points all require a strong government intervention into affairs to avoid a disaster for the American idea.
Regardless of the fact that the Neo-Liberal Consensus is dramatically disproven as an effective framework for national economic policies [see for example: IDEAS, POLICIES AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT IN THE AMERICAS, Esteban Perez Caldentey and Matias Vernengo, editors, Routledge, 2007 New York; ISBN10 0-415-77055-6 [hbk]], Republicans seem to hold to this concept. Therefore, they are likely to oppose any government action which affects any market.
Until that changes, any Republican administration is likely to threaten the American idea, or at least my personal understanding of it.
Dennis Kucinich
Here's how Dennis Kucinich measures up according to his 2008 web site: [http://kucinich.us/issues].
Kucinich is actively running and has made numerous speeches and pronouncements on and around the issues covered in this blog. Ths scores are based on a quick perusal of his site and perhaps are incomplete.
1.Political Corruption: Score 1
Recognizes the problem and has a specific plan.
2. Military/Industrial Complex: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
3. Energy: Score 1
Recognizes the problem and has a specific plan.
4. Unions - Labor and Consumer: Score 1
Wants to let workers organize
5. Income and Wealth Disparity: Score 1
Recognizes the problem and has a specific plan.
6. Elections: Score 0.5
Covered by implication
7. Judicial Independence: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
8. Trade deficits: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
9. Usury Law: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
Kucinich scores 4.5 of 9 for an even .500, right up there with Clinton but behind Obama.
Earns a spot on the roster.
Kucinich is actively running and has made numerous speeches and pronouncements on and around the issues covered in this blog. Ths scores are based on a quick perusal of his site and perhaps are incomplete.
1.Political Corruption: Score 1
Recognizes the problem and has a specific plan.
2. Military/Industrial Complex: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
3. Energy: Score 1
Recognizes the problem and has a specific plan.
4. Unions - Labor and Consumer: Score 1
Wants to let workers organize
5. Income and Wealth Disparity: Score 1
Recognizes the problem and has a specific plan.
6. Elections: Score 0.5
Covered by implication
7. Judicial Independence: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
8. Trade deficits: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
9. Usury Law: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
Kucinich scores 4.5 of 9 for an even .500, right up there with Clinton but behind Obama.
Earns a spot on the roster.
Friday, July 13, 2007
Home Team
America is facing some big challenges. It's personal, but: Who do I want batting for the home team of the major candidates so far??
Here's my list:
1. Barack Obama: Beats Clinton with 5 of 9 for a .560 average.
2. Hillary Clinton: a pretty good batting average: 4.5 of 9 for a .500 average.
3. Wes Clark scores 4 out of 9 for a batting average of .444.
4. Bill Richardson scores 3.5 out of 9 for a batting average of .390.
I really don't want any hitters with less than a .300 average trying to protect me and my family. Maybe one of the struggling candidates can take some coaching and improve their game, just in case they come up to bat:
5. John Edwards scores 2 out of 9 for a batting average of .220.
6. Mitt Romney: Total 1 of 9 for a batting average of .110.
7. John McCain scores 1 of 9 for a batting average of 110.
If one of the three above gets a plate appearance, we all need to pray a lot.
One candidate should be permanently benched and used only as trade bail: Rudy Giuliani. Sorry, Rudy. You are not my go to guy.
Here's my list:
1. Barack Obama: Beats Clinton with 5 of 9 for a .560 average.
2. Hillary Clinton: a pretty good batting average: 4.5 of 9 for a .500 average.
3. Wes Clark scores 4 out of 9 for a batting average of .444.
4. Bill Richardson scores 3.5 out of 9 for a batting average of .390.
I really don't want any hitters with less than a .300 average trying to protect me and my family. Maybe one of the struggling candidates can take some coaching and improve their game, just in case they come up to bat:
5. John Edwards scores 2 out of 9 for a batting average of .220.
6. Mitt Romney: Total 1 of 9 for a batting average of .110.
7. John McCain scores 1 of 9 for a batting average of 110.
If one of the three above gets a plate appearance, we all need to pray a lot.
One candidate should be permanently benched and used only as trade bail: Rudy Giuliani. Sorry, Rudy. You are not my go to guy.
Wednesday, July 11, 2007
Wes Clark - Revised
Here's how Wes Clark measures up according to a web site labelled 2004. See the site for details: [http://www.clark04.com/issues/].
Although he is apparently not running, the 04 site has many detailed policy papers, some of which address the nine issues by implication rather than directly.
1.Political Corruption: Score 0.5
Wants open government, will reduce corruption to the extent that corruption requires secrecy
2. Military/Industrial Complex: Score 0
Committed to strong military - apparently does not recognize the MIC as a danger
3. Energy: Score 0
Can find no mention of energy alternatives
4. Unions - Labor and Consumer: Score 1
Wants to let workers organize
5. Income and Wealth Disparity: Score 1
Has a tax plan to relieve pressure on the middle class.
6. Elections: Score 0.5
Wants to secure voting for DC citizens, by implication seems to support clean elections
7. Judicial Independence: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
8. Trade deficits: Score 1
Wants to address the job exporting issue; good start, even though he seems not to metion trade deficit specifically
9. Usury Law: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
Wes Clark scores 4 out of 9 for a batting average of .444.
Keep him in the game, try to talk him off the DL.
Although he is apparently not running, the 04 site has many detailed policy papers, some of which address the nine issues by implication rather than directly.
1.Political Corruption: Score 0.5
Wants open government, will reduce corruption to the extent that corruption requires secrecy
2. Military/Industrial Complex: Score 0
Committed to strong military - apparently does not recognize the MIC as a danger
3. Energy: Score 0
Can find no mention of energy alternatives
4. Unions - Labor and Consumer: Score 1
Wants to let workers organize
5. Income and Wealth Disparity: Score 1
Has a tax plan to relieve pressure on the middle class.
6. Elections: Score 0.5
Wants to secure voting for DC citizens, by implication seems to support clean elections
7. Judicial Independence: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
8. Trade deficits: Score 1
Wants to address the job exporting issue; good start, even though he seems not to metion trade deficit specifically
9. Usury Law: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
Wes Clark scores 4 out of 9 for a batting average of .444.
Keep him in the game, try to talk him off the DL.
Monday, July 9, 2007
Wes Clark - comment
Clark is not yet a candidate for office.... until he is, you could refer to http://www.clark04.com/issues/
Sunday, July 8, 2007
John Edwards
Here's how John Edawrds measures up. See
[http://johnedwards.com/about/issues/] his web site for details. I was expecting a more complete issue coverage, but as of today - 07.08.07 - the coverage is thin.
1.Political Corruption: Score 0
No Mention - a surprise
2. Military/Industrial Complex: Score 0
Could not find any mention, shame.
3. Energy: Score 1
Has an idea about energy alternatives and wants to use less oil
4. Unions - Labor and Consumer: Score 0
No Mention - a surprise
5. Income and Wealth Disparity: Score 1
Mentions a worry about the middle class
6. Elections: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
7. Judicial Independence: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
8. Trade deficits: Score 0
No mention
9. Usury Law: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
John scores 2 out of 9 for a batting average of .220.
Send him to the minors to work on his game.
[http://johnedwards.com/about/issues/] his web site for details. I was expecting a more complete issue coverage, but as of today - 07.08.07 - the coverage is thin.
1.Political Corruption: Score 0
No Mention - a surprise
2. Military/Industrial Complex: Score 0
Could not find any mention, shame.
3. Energy: Score 1
Has an idea about energy alternatives and wants to use less oil
4. Unions - Labor and Consumer: Score 0
No Mention - a surprise
5. Income and Wealth Disparity: Score 1
Mentions a worry about the middle class
6. Elections: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
7. Judicial Independence: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
8. Trade deficits: Score 0
No mention
9. Usury Law: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
John scores 2 out of 9 for a batting average of .220.
Send him to the minors to work on his game.
Bill Richardson
Here's how Bill Richardson measures up. See his web site
[http://www.richardsonforpresident.com/issues/] for details.
1.Political Corruption: Score 0
No Mention - a surprise
2. Military/Industrial Complex: Score 0
Could not find any mention, shame.
3. Energy: Score 1
Has an idea about energy alternatives and wants to use less oil
4. Unions - Labor and Consumer: Score 1
Looks kindly on labor
5. Income and Wealth Disparity: Score 1
Wants to close tax loopholes
6. Elections: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
7. Judicial Independence: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
8. Trade deficits: Score 0.5
He is for free trade as long as it offers protection for labor.
9. Usury Law: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
Bill scores 3.5 out of 9 for a batting average of .390.
Put him in the lineup - maybe as a Veep
[http://www.richardsonforpresident.com/issues/] for details.
1.Political Corruption: Score 0
No Mention - a surprise
2. Military/Industrial Complex: Score 0
Could not find any mention, shame.
3. Energy: Score 1
Has an idea about energy alternatives and wants to use less oil
4. Unions - Labor and Consumer: Score 1
Looks kindly on labor
5. Income and Wealth Disparity: Score 1
Wants to close tax loopholes
6. Elections: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
7. Judicial Independence: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
8. Trade deficits: Score 0.5
He is for free trade as long as it offers protection for labor.
9. Usury Law: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
Bill scores 3.5 out of 9 for a batting average of .390.
Put him in the lineup - maybe as a Veep
Wes Clark
I'd like to discuss Wes Clark but his issue positions on the website [http://securingamerica.com/taxonomy/term/3] are vague and spotty. Perhaps I have not found the correct web page or perhaps General Clark has not addressed the issues yet.
General Clark: Please develop and publish some position papers.
General Clark: Please develop and publish some position papers.
Mitt Romney
Here's how Mitt Romney measures up. See [http://www.mittromney.com/Issue-Watch/index] his web site for details.
1.Political Corruption: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
2. Military/Industrial Complex: Score 0
Could not find any mention, shame.
3. Energy: Score 1
Has an idea about energy alternatives and wants to use less oil
4. Unions - Labor and Consumer: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
5. Income and Wealth Disparity: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
6. Elections: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
7. Judicial Independence: Score 0
Too bad I can't use a negative score - Mitt wants judges to enforce his anti gay marriage agenda
8. Trade deficits: Score 0
Need a negative - he buys yesterday's news that free trade is the only answer to prosperity.
9. Usury Law: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
Total 1.0 of 9 for a batting average of .110.
Studiously avoids important issues. Let him watch from the bench until he grows up.
1.Political Corruption: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
2. Military/Industrial Complex: Score 0
Could not find any mention, shame.
3. Energy: Score 1
Has an idea about energy alternatives and wants to use less oil
4. Unions - Labor and Consumer: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
5. Income and Wealth Disparity: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
6. Elections: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
7. Judicial Independence: Score 0
Too bad I can't use a negative score - Mitt wants judges to enforce his anti gay marriage agenda
8. Trade deficits: Score 0
Need a negative - he buys yesterday's news that free trade is the only answer to prosperity.
9. Usury Law: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
Total 1.0 of 9 for a batting average of .110.
Studiously avoids important issues. Let him watch from the bench until he grows up.
Thursday, July 5, 2007
Mike Bloomberg
Here's how Mike Bloomberg measures up. See [http://www.mikebloomberg.com/en/issues] for lots of information, but not in critical areas. Maybe he will flesh out his stances as time goes by.
1.Political Corruption: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
2. Military/Industrial Complex: Score 0
Could not find any mention, shame.
3. Energy: Score 0.5
Has an idea about energy alternatives - at least it's a start
4. Unions - Labor and Consumer: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
5. Income and Wealth Disparity: Score 0.5
Actually recognizes poverty, but doesn't address the bigger issues
6. Elections: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
7. Judicial Independence: Score 0
No mention - no surprise
8. Trade deficits: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
9. Usury Law: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
Total 1.0 of 9 for a batting average of .110.
On McCain's level now, Let Bloomberg watch from the bench until he grows up.
1.Political Corruption: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
2. Military/Industrial Complex: Score 0
Could not find any mention, shame.
3. Energy: Score 0.5
Has an idea about energy alternatives - at least it's a start
4. Unions - Labor and Consumer: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
5. Income and Wealth Disparity: Score 0.5
Actually recognizes poverty, but doesn't address the bigger issues
6. Elections: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
7. Judicial Independence: Score 0
No mention - no surprise
8. Trade deficits: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
9. Usury Law: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
Total 1.0 of 9 for a batting average of .110.
On McCain's level now, Let Bloomberg watch from the bench until he grows up.
Rudy Giuliani
Here's how Rudy Giuliani measures up - pretty much a strict Republican who ignores the critical issues and focuses on just getting in power . He is a danger to the American idea.[http://www.joinrudy2008.com/index.php]
1.Political Corruption: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
2. Military/Industrial Complex: Score 0
Could not find any mention, shame.
3. Energy: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
4. Unions - Labor and Consumer: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
5. Income and Wealth Disparity: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
6. Elections: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
7. Judicial Independence: Score 0
Too bad I can't use a negative score - Rudy specifically wants more
political judges
8. Trade deficits: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
9. Usury Law: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
Perfect zeros - Rudy is a danger to the American idea and should be barred from the stadium.
1.Political Corruption: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
2. Military/Industrial Complex: Score 0
Could not find any mention, shame.
3. Energy: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
4. Unions - Labor and Consumer: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
5. Income and Wealth Disparity: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
6. Elections: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
7. Judicial Independence: Score 0
Too bad I can't use a negative score - Rudy specifically wants more
political judges
8. Trade deficits: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
9. Usury Law: Score 0
No Mention - no surprise
Perfect zeros - Rudy is a danger to the American idea and should be barred from the stadium.
Wednesday, July 4, 2007
Barack Obama
Here's my analysis of how Barack Obama matches up to the nine critical
questions, based on his website today
[http://origin.barackobama.com/issues/]
1.Political Corruption: Score 1
Demonstrated chops - I like it
2. Military/Industrial Complex: Score 0
Could not find any mention, shame.
3. Energy: Score 1
Working the problem
4. Unions - Labor and Consumer: Score 1
Specific mention of unions rights to organize. Also, a plan to help poor people up the ladder
5. Income and Wealth Disparity: Score 1
Explicitly discussed in the poverty section.
6. Elections: Score 1
Specifics proposed in voting section
7. Judicial Independence: Score 0
No mention, shame.
8. Trade deficits: Score 0
No mention
9. Usury Law: Score 0
Are we afraid of the banks??
Beats Clinton with 5 of 9 for a .560 average.
Bat him cleanup.
questions, based on his website today
[http://origin.barackobama.com/issues/]
1.Political Corruption: Score 1
Demonstrated chops - I like it
2. Military/Industrial Complex: Score 0
Could not find any mention, shame.
3. Energy: Score 1
Working the problem
4. Unions - Labor and Consumer: Score 1
Specific mention of unions rights to organize. Also, a plan to help poor people up the ladder
5. Income and Wealth Disparity: Score 1
Explicitly discussed in the poverty section.
6. Elections: Score 1
Specifics proposed in voting section
7. Judicial Independence: Score 0
No mention, shame.
8. Trade deficits: Score 0
No mention
9. Usury Law: Score 0
Are we afraid of the banks??
Beats Clinton with 5 of 9 for a .560 average.
Bat him cleanup.
Monday, July 2, 2007
John McCain
Here's John McCain
1. Political Corruption: Score 1
Big Talk, give him the benefit of the doubt.
2. Military Industrial Complex: Score 0
His approach is to make the military bigger and buy more weapons. Too bad I didn't include a negative score.
3. Energy: Score 0
Not a word.
4. Unions: Score 0
Not a word or a surprise
5. Income/Wealth Disparity: Score 0
Not a word
6. Elections: Score 0
Not a word
7. Judges: Score 0
Not a word
8. Trade balance: Score 0
In favor of free trade and cash outflows; too bad I don't have a negative score
9. Usury: Score 0
Not a word.
John,.......John
You score 1 of 9 for a batting average of .110.
Bench him.
1. Political Corruption: Score 1
Big Talk, give him the benefit of the doubt.
2. Military Industrial Complex: Score 0
His approach is to make the military bigger and buy more weapons. Too bad I didn't include a negative score.
3. Energy: Score 0
Not a word.
4. Unions: Score 0
Not a word or a surprise
5. Income/Wealth Disparity: Score 0
Not a word
6. Elections: Score 0
Not a word
7. Judges: Score 0
Not a word
8. Trade balance: Score 0
In favor of free trade and cash outflows; too bad I don't have a negative score
9. Usury: Score 0
Not a word.
John,.......John
You score 1 of 9 for a batting average of .110.
Bench him.
Hillary Clinton
Here's my analysis of how Hillary Clinton matches up to the nine critical questions posed below, based on her website today [http://www.hillaryclinton.com/issues/]
1.Political Corruption: Score 1
A pretty good ten point plan here - go Hilary
2. Military/Industrial Complex: Score 0
Could not find any mention, shame.
3. Energy: Score 1
Specifically addressed and with the Demos in Congress, she has a clue about alternatives,
4. Unions - Labor and Consumer: Score 0.5
Nothing explicit, but can be read betwen the lines in helping the middle class - are we afraid of upsetting the corps by calling a spade a spade??
5. Income and Wealth Disparity: Score 1
Explicitly discussed in the middle class section.
6. Elections: Score 1
Specifics proposed in good government section
7. Judicial Independence: Score 0
No mention, shame.
8. Trade deficits: Score 0
No mention
9. Usury Law: Score 0
Are we afraid of the banks??
Overall, a pretty good batting average: 4.5 of 9 for a .500 average for Hilary.
1.Political Corruption: Score 1
A pretty good ten point plan here - go Hilary
2. Military/Industrial Complex: Score 0
Could not find any mention, shame.
3. Energy: Score 1
Specifically addressed and with the Demos in Congress, she has a clue about alternatives,
4. Unions - Labor and Consumer: Score 0.5
Nothing explicit, but can be read betwen the lines in helping the middle class - are we afraid of upsetting the corps by calling a spade a spade??
5. Income and Wealth Disparity: Score 1
Explicitly discussed in the middle class section.
6. Elections: Score 1
Specifics proposed in good government section
7. Judicial Independence: Score 0
No mention, shame.
8. Trade deficits: Score 0
No mention
9. Usury Law: Score 0
Are we afraid of the banks??
Overall, a pretty good batting average: 4.5 of 9 for a .500 average for Hilary.
Nine Questions
The 2008 Presidential election offers a great chance to see where the country is headed.
This writer thinks there are nine [9] areas where the American idea is actively under attack.
First, I'll list and explain each of the nine areas.
Then, I'll make a comparison of the campaign platform of many of the major presidential candidates to the nine areas. The comparison will be based on the candidate's published positions of each website.
Perhaps some candidates will change their platforms as a result. Who knows?
Here is the list of nine areas:
1. Political corruption - the government of the USA is corrupt. The legislative system require that candidates raise money from rich interests to be elected; then the elected legislators grant favors to their campaign contributors. [You can track corruption and fix it here: http://www.cleanupwashington.org]
The American idea suffers when only money interests receive favorable laws.
2. Military/Indistrial Complex - Contractors receive money from providing products and services to the armed forces. With that money they influence policy to encourage wars. [Track corruption at Soldiers For The Truth: http://www.sftt.org.......fix it here at the National Legal and Policy Center: http://www.nlpc.org]
Our military is corrupted when wars are started or encouraged by companies who profit from a war - that is not an American idea.
3. Energy - Oil interests damage the national security by promoting our dependence on oil.
A new bill was proposed recently in the House of Representatives to fund searches for oil alternatives. This is a good idea.
Here's another: let's treat oil like a public utility. After all, everyone needs it, just like water and electricity. So let's create a national oil commission that will plan for energy alternatives and regulate the price of oil so that oil companies can earn a reasonable rate of return but not any excessive profits.
Failure to deal with our energy problem will damage our future.
4. Labor and Consumer Unions - Corruption favors business interests over workers and consumers. It is time to restore a more equal balance between labor and business and consumers. [Track efforts against unions: http://www.americanrightsatwork.org/antiunionnetwork/.........track consumer problems here: http://www.usa.gov/Citizen/Topics/Consumer_Safety.shtml..........Fix with new laws here: http://www.bls.gov/opub/mlr/mlrhome.htm]
Continued weakening of labor and consumer power will damage the working family, the backbone of America.
5. Income and wealth Disparity - we are becoming a two tier country; the middle class is becoming weaker.
Our idea has been that Americans are mostly middle class. That idea is in trouble.
Track and fix here: http://www.workertimes.com/news/disparity.html
6. Elections - The foundation of the American idea is that voters can change the government if it is unresponsive. But, if the voting process is manipulated for partisan purposes, the American ideal is gone.
Track computer Fraud here: http://www.votefraud.org/............General voting problems: http://www.commondreams.org/newswire.htm........Volunteer here: http://www.onebrick.org
7. Judicial Indepedence - Judges must be above politics to protect our values.
Track pressures on judges: http://www.afj.org.........Solutions here: http://www.legislationline.org
8. Trade Deficits - trade deficts reflect an economic imbalance that will eventually damage the American way of life.
Track: http://www.epi.org/content.cfm/indicators_intlpict_archive..........Solution: http://www.mkeever.com/essay.html
9. Usury - Banks contribute to destroying the middls class with usurious interest rates. We need a national law.
Compare credit cards here: http://www.indexcreditcards.com....and here http://www.bankrate.com....... track usury in your state here: http://www.usurylaw.com/
That's the list.
This writer thinks there are nine [9] areas where the American idea is actively under attack.
First, I'll list and explain each of the nine areas.
Then, I'll make a comparison of the campaign platform of many of the major presidential candidates to the nine areas. The comparison will be based on the candidate's published positions of each website.
Perhaps some candidates will change their platforms as a result. Who knows?
Here is the list of nine areas:
1. Political corruption - the government of the USA is corrupt. The legislative system require that candidates raise money from rich interests to be elected; then the elected legislators grant favors to their campaign contributors. [You can track corruption and fix it here: http://www.cleanupwashington.org]
The American idea suffers when only money interests receive favorable laws.
2. Military/Indistrial Complex - Contractors receive money from providing products and services to the armed forces. With that money they influence policy to encourage wars. [Track corruption at Soldiers For The Truth: http://www.sftt.org.......fix it here at the National Legal and Policy Center: http://www.nlpc.org]
Our military is corrupted when wars are started or encouraged by companies who profit from a war - that is not an American idea.
3. Energy - Oil interests damage the national security by promoting our dependence on oil.
A new bill was proposed recently in the House of Representatives to fund searches for oil alternatives. This is a good idea.
Here's another: let's treat oil like a public utility. After all, everyone needs it, just like water and electricity. So let's create a national oil commission that will plan for energy alternatives and regulate the price of oil so that oil companies can earn a reasonable rate of return but not any excessive profits.
Failure to deal with our energy problem will damage our future.
4. Labor and Consumer Unions - Corruption favors business interests over workers and consumers. It is time to restore a more equal balance between labor and business and consumers. [Track efforts against unions: http://www.americanrightsatwork.org/antiunionnetwork/.........track consumer problems here: http://www.usa.gov/Citizen/Topics/Consumer_Safety.shtml..........Fix with new laws here: http://www.bls.gov/opub/mlr/mlrhome.htm]
Continued weakening of labor and consumer power will damage the working family, the backbone of America.
5. Income and wealth Disparity - we are becoming a two tier country; the middle class is becoming weaker.
Our idea has been that Americans are mostly middle class. That idea is in trouble.
Track and fix here: http://www.workertimes.com/news/disparity.html
6. Elections - The foundation of the American idea is that voters can change the government if it is unresponsive. But, if the voting process is manipulated for partisan purposes, the American ideal is gone.
Track computer Fraud here: http://www.votefraud.org/............General voting problems: http://www.commondreams.org/newswire.htm........Volunteer here: http://www.onebrick.org
7. Judicial Indepedence - Judges must be above politics to protect our values.
Track pressures on judges: http://www.afj.org.........Solutions here: http://www.legislationline.org
8. Trade Deficits - trade deficts reflect an economic imbalance that will eventually damage the American way of life.
Track: http://www.epi.org/content.cfm/indicators_intlpict_archive..........Solution: http://www.mkeever.com/essay.html
9. Usury - Banks contribute to destroying the middls class with usurious interest rates. We need a national law.
Compare credit cards here: http://www.indexcreditcards.com....and here http://www.bankrate.com....... track usury in your state here: http://www.usurylaw.com/
That's the list.
Thursday, March 29, 2007
Do It Yourself
Legislators and bureaucrats respond to pressure; pressure is just people showing up to voice concerns. So, find a few friends who share your concerns and then show up in DC or your state capital and apply pressure for the right things. Don't leave it to the professionals because they work for the highest bidder.
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