February 2010
FightingBob.com readers talk back
Letter on: Playing it where it lays
“I agree with you on this one! Our constitution gives associations of people the right to disseminate information freely into the public forum. But it does not neccessarily give these associations (or the people) the right to do so anonymously.
Masks have no place in the public forum. (He says, while only disclosing his initials . . .)”
-RMJ | Hudson, WI | February 28, 2010
Letter on: Playing it where it lays
“Along with your common sense thinking (not done often anymore) as to the power of the obscene amounts of money in politics – can we also deal with that?”
-Steve Anderson | e | February 28, 2010
Letter on: We keep on keepin' on!
“When the doe came out of the woods, she said, "I'll never do that again for 20 bucks!"
FightingBob is different and worth every buck tossed its way. This is truly an excellent forum for information as well as for motivating people who vote and who can make a difference.
Pessimists would argue the events of the past few decades as being a trend. The rest of us realize it's time to awaken, regroup, get focused and go forward.
We're not out of the woods yet and we won't be until we get our democracy back.”
-Franz Fripplfrappl | Stoughton, WI | February 28, 2010
Letter on: Who won?
“Today's NYT has an editorial about the two Republican't senators from Kentucky who apparently have voted to not extend unemployment benefits which would affect the 11% of Kentuckians who are unemployed.
If this doesn't exemplify what is wrong with the Republican't party, nothing ever will.
As I watched the discussions on Thursday and then listened to commentaries the past two days, it is more than obvious that Republican'ts are removed from reality as well as being against ordinary Americans. I now understand why we have corporations and why the supreme court has given corporations the same status and rights as people. Corporations are easier for Republican'ts to deal with. Entities are less troublesome than real humans. Real people have families and children, workers and the needy. Corporate entities do not.”
-Franz Fripplfrappl | Stoughton, WI | February 27, 2010
Letter on: I can't wait!
“Perhaps the Chamber of Commerce should be renamed the "Chamber of Horrors." Big business just does not get it. Without people with good jobs to buy their products how to do they survive? Easy, they milk the government while denouncing government spending at the same time. It's classic Republican bait-and-switch. The true "welfare queens" of America work Wall Street, not main street. When you think about it, most prostitutes have more honor than almost any American big business.”
-Nick | Milwaukee, WI | February 27, 2010
Letter on: I can't wait!
“Whats good for one is good for the other. Just read WEAC spent the most in lobbing this past year. This money comes from gov employees and funds this group. Wht should I pay more for teachers who just give it to the union to spend on lobbying? Let WEAC pay also. Making vendors pay higher wages stops many private projects getting built. Lets get the most out of our fed gov money and see how many more projects can get done.”
-Joe Polsky | Plover, wi | February 27, 2010
Letter on: Nudge Capitalism
“The thing about helping the next great capitalist is that no one knows who it is till they no longer need help. I want government to focus on helping people who truly need a helping hand.”
-Jim Cieslak | Franklin, WI | February 26, 2010
Letter on: Getting Bayh
“No matter the group, there are those who quit and those who obstruct. It's something they do best.
We expect much of congress and those in government service, but in reality they behave no differently than anyone else whether in a corporate setting, a school, a church or a group of neighbors.
The bottom line is very little gets done for the good of all.”
-Franz Fripplfrappl | Stoughton, WI | February 25, 2010
Letter on: Back to the future
“After reading and commenting in a couple of Progressive blogs I am convinced there is money being paid to contrarians to perpetrate the same old tired b.s. that serves the wealthy best. Fear based, greed based, whatever. Chris, I am starting a mental list of commenters I will skip with your name #1. May it do your ego some good to be #1. Trust that if you attack my logic I will not be paying attention.
F.F. We need to move past the status quo analysis if we are to head off the pain of $10 a gallon gasoline. Recall people like George Washington and Ghandi. If they had thrown up their hands in despair at the notion of a superior foe and popular apathy the British might still be standing alone abusing the world. Where would the world be without visionaries? I chose to remain optimistic and look to the wisdom of folks like Howard Zinn. He certainly recorded a dark History but never despaired because he also saw what a few dedicated big hearted individuals could begin and often see to a brighter conclusion.
The words of Dylan's "The Times They Are A Changing" are playing in my mind at the moment.”
-Jim Limbach | Stevens Point, Wisconsin | February 24, 2010
Letter on: Peace might break out---then what?
“When a country spends $1 trillion a year on building weapons of war, it will want to use them. During times of "war" civil liberties are easily suppressed and leaders act like dictators. Ever since Ronnie Ray-Gun, America has been a nation at constant war with a populace ever more destitute.”
-Nick | Milwaukee, WI | February 24, 2010
Letter on: Peace might break out---then what?
“Now that Iraq and Afghanistan are under control, I'm patiently waiting for congress to declare war on Toyota... call out the Marines... drone those plants... surgical strikes against the assemblers... declare ol' man Toyoda an enemy combatant... put him before a military tribunal and waterboard him until we know the truth.
Congress is obsessed with itself. Why does it waste so much time on Toyota? Are committee hearings another lame attempt to show us voters the power of congress and how well it gets things done?
Congress is all about conflict whether its between countries, manufacturers or each other.”
-Franz Fripplfrappl | Stoughton, WI | February 24, 2010
Letter on: You must be kidding!
“Corporations are doing quite well. They have managed to buy most of the legislature and half of the Wisconsin Supreme Court. With time, they will succeed in buying the entire court, governor and legislature. Then we can be happy that corporations own our government lock, stock and barrel.
I look forward to a return to the 60-hour work week at minimum wage with no benefits, child labor and jailing debtors, the way our English forefathers did. I also look forward to the abolishment of corporate crimes and any pesky regulation of corporations. After all, corporations have made this country what it is.”
-Chris | Watertown, WI | February 24, 2010
Letter on: Nudge Capitalism
“I agree. Incentives are needed to encourage entrepreneurship -- and, crucially, regulations are needed to protect it. Many people assert that government regulation hurts business and innovation, but it is a fallacy to believe that limits on the power of major corporations are restraints on all businesses.
If new people with new ideas are to have a chance launching and growing small businesses, they must have a chance to compete against the large, established corporations that dominate America today. The unchecked consolidation of businesses into oligopolies and monopolies is as great a threat to free market innovation as any kind of socialism might be, but regulations on the size and scope of businesses have been repealed in the very name of the free market.
Innovation, and indeed, social mobility, will be impossible if a handful of major corporations are allowed to maintain their stranglehold on so many sectors of the American economy. Capitalism works because of the innovation fostered by fair competition, and fair competition is only possible under fair rules.”
-Joshua | La Crosse, WI | February 23, 2010
Letter on: You must be kidding!
“I became very depressed during the 8 years of the Cheney/Bush regime. I am now depressed that the supreme court has given corporate money the same freedoms for which our forefathers fought assuring us all that elections and those elected will be controlled by those with the most money. Recently I read that anti-depressants just don't work.
What am I to do?”
-Franz Fripplfrappl | Stoughton, WI | February 23, 2010
Letter on: Money, money
“Everywhere I see blame and fingerpointing.
Everywhere except the one group of people who really have the power to make a difference - parents.
I don't care what kind of education system you put in place there; if the parents and students are not of a mindset to avail themselves of the opportunities presented, it will fail.
You want to fix MPS? Fix the hopelessness by dealing with poverty, addiction through self-medication, unemployment, and shattered families.
Adjust the pictures in people's heads. Nothing wrong with raising a little family in a little apartment. It's how I grew up.
People hold insane expectations from our entertainment and advertising operations, and they rightly perceive no legit path to achieving those ends. Their reality does not match the pictures in their heads, so we end up with problems.
A loss of hope. A loss of faith in America. Once that's gone, why bother with school? Stop filling people's heads with impossible pictures, and bring back jobs that can support working class families.
Even if that means goods cost a little more. I'd rather pay an extra ten bucks for my jeans than keep dumping tax money into an incinerator.
Not everybody is going to be a computer programmer or a biomedical engineer no matter how much money you shove into the school system, but if we stabilize people's lives with real work and at least modest opportunity, there's no telling what their kids might accomplish.”
-Jeff | Madison | February 23, 2010
Letter on: What Would a Centrist Do?
“Tim's comments on the Blue Dogs extend to Evan Bayh. His wife has sat for years on WellPoint Anthem's board. He, like Nelson, Lincoln, Baucus, and Landrieu, voted for cloture to allow passage of the 2003 prescription drug bill, which benefited not only the insurers but pharmaceutical manufacturers like Indiana's own Eli Lilley. Democrats, even in Wisconsin, don't always behave as Democrats should. Ask the pirates who privatized our Blue Cross in 2001.”
-bruf | Milwaukee, WI | February 22, 2010
Letter on: Tough choices
“Hope RMJ had a chance to see "Bill Moyers Journal" last Friday. Might have found it to be instructive...or, not.”
-Nan | Middleton, WI | February 22, 2010
Letter on: Money, money
“Social justice should be the goal for Milwaukee's leaders as they attempt to deal with MPS. The punishment being doled out by the status quo is leaving generations of Milwaukee's most vulnerable citizens behind.
Yet, the powers that be on all sides of the issue are most concerned about who is in charge.
Shame on the school board, shame on the politicians, shame on the teachers, shame on the parents for abiding by the status quo and dooming Milwaukee's children.”
-Steve | Milwaukee | February 22, 2010
Letter on: Money, money
“Any solutions for the disgrace that is the Milwaukee Public School system? Any sympathy for yet another generation of kids doomed by its failure? Or is it easier to criticize any attempt to improve the schools on procedural grounds?”
-Patrick Pearse | Milwaukee, WI | February 22, 2010
Letter on: Money, money
“The Milwaukee School system is a disaster. The Mayor proposed a takeover to do something about it. Yet people claim they want things the same old way. With a budget approaching $200 million a year, a superintendent paid $260,000/year, principals and administrators making over $100,000/year, MPS still graduates less than half its students. For every dollar MPS spends on students, it spends $.70 on employee benefits.
Assuming mayoral control is not the answer, the status quo is even worse. Why do people support the current system that clearly has failed? Those who oppose change are favoring a failed system. Where is the logic there? Why support a clearly broken system?
The real danger is allowing children to remain ignorant and leave high school with what amounts to an 8th-grade education. I oppose giving public money to private schools, but the MPS has been failing its students for decades and people demand more of the same? That's crazy. Taxpayers should demand accountability. Instead they favor throwing millions at the same people who maintain a school system that deserves an "F" on all counts.”
-Nick | Milwaukee, WI | February 22, 2010
Letter on: Ah, the smart war
“Constant war is the hallmark of our federal government. The best way to determine a nation's true values is to review its budget. The US spends almost half its budget on the military. We are a country based on militarism. Our leaders need "enemies" to control and manipulate the population.
How else can one explain how war criminals Bush, Cheney and Rumsfeld walked away from government instead of hanging from a rope? The war against Iraq, built on lies, was simply a tool to control people at home and continue the militarism of this country. At least 100,000 innocent women and children were killed by this endless war and most Americans could care less. If bombs were being dropped on Madison people would feel differently. That is the point, our "leaders" love wars were we attack defenseless countries, like Reagan's wars against Grenada and Nicaragua.
Endless war is the essence of the federal government and it will not stop as long as war can be used to beat the populace into submission. I remember when people used to say "we are a peaceful people." I have not heard that in decades. The war in Iraq was also a war against the American people.”
-Nick | Milwaukee, WI | February 22, 2010
Letter on: Ah, the smart war
“Wars are not an answer to humanity's woes nor have they ever been an answer. Today's battles will not achieve happy results or anything of which to be proud.
Wars are acts of violence. The do little more than polarize people and oppress victims.
The only things dumber than a war are the people who start them.”
-Franz Fripplfrappl | Stoughton, WI | February 21, 2010
Letter on: Back to the future
“Mass transit makes good sense but I am afraid it will not take hold until the price of gas and the cost of owning/operating a vehicle reach a level people are no longer willing to pay.
Don't expect commuter trains to work if people have to drive to stations and then fight to find a parking space.
Rail service between Madison and Milwaukee: Just how many people would use it?
Light rail within cities makes sense but again only if it is convenient for people.
We no longer have neighborhood shops supplying our daily needs. If we need groceries, it's into the car we go. Nothing is built conveniently for our neighborhoods. How many people are going to use mass transit or light rail to do their grocery shopping? It's much more convenient to throw things in the trunk than to lug bags onto a train.
Revisit local zoning ordinances first. Make our neighborhoods more user friendly and less dependent on cars... Now that's an idea whose time has come, and one which is far more reasonable and less expensive than trains.”
-Franz Fripplfrappl | Stoughton, WI | February 21, 2010
Letter on: Back to the future
“Senator Judy lives in fantasy land. There is no great demand for a train between Madison and Milwaukee. It's a $800 million white elephant. Where there are bus systems only the poor take them, because of inconvenience, crime and violence.
Moreover, those who live in wealthy counties do not want those from cities to have easy access via public transportation. For over a decade the people of Waukesha County have fought every effort to bring public transportation to Waukesha from Milwaukee.
Sen. Robson wants to increase the size of government and offer people transportation they do not want. Why not put these plans to a vote and see if the people really want them?”
-Chris | Milwaukee, WI | February 21, 2010
Letter on: Fighting Bob hits the road
“Bill Moyers journal was exceptional this Friday evening. If you missed it, go to his website for the transcripts.
Corporate money has already bought elections and continues to control both legislation and judicial decisions. Tighten your seat belts and hang on... It's gonna be a long, rough ride.
People still get bent out of shape over those 19 young men who smashed planes into the WTC and the Bush/Cheney war on terrorism. Even Obama has become swept up in the frenzy to rid the nation of terrorist attacks from abroad.
Well, perhaps the real terrorism is again rising from within. Corporations buying elections is terrorism. Judges who kowtow to these corporate and monied interests are terrorists. Legislators who no longer represent the electorate and who fail to legislate are equally terrorist elements and a threat to the democracy.
We are so worried about terrorist ideologies abroad and the perps who hate us, yet we have failed to recognize terrorism and greater threats to the nation on our own soil.
Perhaps we do get what we deserve. Ouch!”
-Franz Fripplfrappl | Stoughton, WI | February 20, 2010
Letter on: What Would a Centrist Do?
“Perhaps a centrist is a modern version of the mugwump, one who sits on the fence with his mug on one side and his wump on the other.
Whatever a centrist is, they have no pride and the surely have no concept of real people and real struggles.
A requirement for our elected officials ought to be at least a hundred hours in a food line... not serving the food but eating the watered down gruel and scraps thrown at the needy.”
-Franz Fripplfrappl | Stoughton, WI | February 18, 2010
Letter on: End of Wild West!
“Hell, they could have put a cap of 100% in place and accomplished the same thing as a 36% cap. It simply would not have been enough for the operation to run. One place worked like this.
You borrow $200 for however many days are between now and your payday. The fee is fixed at $44. They simply adjust the APR to match the time frame. 500%, 900%, 1100% - whatever is necessary to get the interest payment up to their fee in the number of days you're going to have the money. If you have the cash for two weeks, the APR might be 500%. If you only have it for four days, maybe 1100%. One way or the other, you're paying $44 to borrow $200. Sick stuff really.
If they could only charge 100%, that would amount to roughly $5/week on a $200 loan, and that's not going to cover the overhead, collections and defaults. The whole sick industry would just have to fold up shop.
The problem is even if we did that - the reason these businesses were functional still remains. Enormous overdraft, NSF and credit card late fees - and plain, simple poverty.
If I'm going to get charged $35 from my bank and $50 from the merchent for one bounced check, suddenly $44 to borrow $200 doesn't sound so awful bad.
If I'm out of food a week from payday listening to my child cry from hunger, getting $100 worth of food sounds better than waiting a week to get $111 worth.
You seem to be suggesting that we kill off what is clearly a bad solution but nobody's doing anything about the problem.”
-Jeff | Madison | February 18, 2010
Letter on: What Would a Centrist Do?
“The United States is Centrist shading right these days.
A political centrist believes in a balanced application of government power. European-style government medical coverage and Chinese state-owned industries are to the left. American libertarians and free-market idealogues sit to the right. Centrists sit in between. For the most part, Americans are a blend of relative centrists except where wedge issues like abortion and gay marriage have been used to split us up into predefined camps.
Fact of the matter is that most of us could come to reasonable agreements on most things. Our differences are exploited so that rednecks mock urban libs while urban libs browse "The People of Wal Mart" and laugh themselves senseless.
Meanwhile, the vast majority of us get pummeled into debt and convinced to purchase crap we don't need. Add some football drama to the mix, pour down a couple beers (PBR or Capitol, I don't care), order a pizza (or go out for sushi) and enjoy your weekend.
Just make damn sure you're back to work on Monday morning doing your part to keep shoving money into rich people's pockets. Never forget that's why you're really here.
Ayn Rand was able to stand it on its head, but the truth of the matter is rich people need us a lot more than we need them. They can only be rich so long as there is a margin between what we can produce and what we're willing to work for. If this sucker falls, they have a lot more to lose than you and I.
So most of us are different shades of working class and centrist, but we are convinced by those who really profit that we are broken up into these little groupings. Does divide and conquer ring a bell at all?
If you're a so-called liberal school teacher, you have far more in common with the so-called RWNJ, NASCAR-watching guy who fixes your car than you do with anybody on Wall Street, and it's about time we came around to that notion.”
-Jeff | Madison | February 18, 2010
Letter on: What Would a Centrist Do?
“From what I have observed lately, a Centrist, a Moderate, is code for a Corporatist.
Baucus, bought and paid for by banking.
Lieberman, bought and paid for by insurance.
Nelson, bought and paid for by insurance and the Chamber of Commerce.
Lincoln, bought and paid for by the "Happy Face" Walmart (clearly Walmart is a person, it has a happy yellow smiling face).
Landrieu, bought and paid for by whoever she can find to buy and pay for her, in true Louisiana style.
Oh, how I wish there actually were such a thing as a principled middle-roader. But there is not. There is only whores in the middle of the road, because that is where the money falls. In the middle, nothing will change, and the rich can continue to work out their (mostly) bloodless coup against democracy.”
-Tim | Almena, WI | February 18, 2010
Letter on: Giving sharks a bad name
“The payday loan business preys on the unsuspecting, the desperate, the needy, the poorly paid worker, those who are not fiscally savvy. It destroys those people who can least afford it.
It is shameful that there even has to be a discussion about this despicable practice of stiffing people with exorbitant interest rates thus pushing them further into the abyss of debt entrapment. We never should have allowed the payday loan business to take hold in the first place.
The first time I saw a check cashing service open in Madison, the first word that came to mind was "sleaze". How could Wisconsin ever allow these thieves to set up shops in our state is beyond me.
We must prod the legislature to clean up this industry and do so quickly. Recovery from the current depression is going to take a generation at least, and allowing people to go further into debt is not going to help the recovery.”
-Franz Fripplfrappl | Stoughton, WI | February 18, 2010
Letter on: A place for us
“Tune into Wiseye. You will get the news as it happened without an editorial. I'v moved some of my financial support to public media there. It is the finest news network I've ever had the pleasure of viewing.”
-Laura DeGolier | Fond du Lac, WI | February 16, 2010
Letter on: A place for us
“Thank you, Bill Kraus, for your sensible suggestion. I heartily endorse asking WPB to do whatever they can to fill in the gaps in our very limited television coverage.
But I'm kind of surprised that you didn't mention Wisconsin Public Radio. I'm of the opinion that we have the very best radio service in the nation, public or commercial, in our two state radio networks. People from other states are always amazed at how good they are.
Oh, I know, there are no pictures for those who need pictures - but for those of us curious folks with imagination, WPR is a lifesaver!”
-John Smart | Park Falls WI | February 16, 2010
Letter on: Bye Bayh!
“There's a grass-roots, internet campaign starting [a REAL grassroots campaign!] to promote John Mellencamp for this senate seat. Indiana could do worse! The popular singer-songwriter has chops, with longtime activism and good progressive credentials. Google his name with "senate" and see for yourself.
Why not? He couldn't be worse than Reagan or Schwartzenegger, and he might be another Franken!”
-John Smart | Park Falls WI | February 16, 2010
Letter on: Bye Bayh!
“Quitting congress or running from the obstructionists is not the solution nor is the Tea Party.
We can try again to elect good people who are committed and who have the abilities to legislate, but it will be those who are amply funded by special interests who will finally get in. Once elected, it will be special interests pulling the strings and not us.
Methinks we are all in trouble.
As winter lingers, a remote tropical island is looking better and better, and more than just an escape from the Wisconsin cold.”
-Franz Fripplfrappl | Stoughton, WI | February 16, 2010
Letter on: Tough choices
“As I sat in Professor Cutler's Constitutional History class decades ago, the same one in which he teased Paul Soglin on a regular basis, I never dreamed we would reach such a democratic precipice.
I wonder if representation will become so corrupt there will be no progressive voice in Washington and the plutocrats will be so arrogant that the populace will look to a violent solution. There is, as of the last administration, a standing US Army within our borders to protect the hallowed capitalists from terrorism. Who will be defining terrorist and patriot?
My reading of History leads me to believe it could happen here.”
-Jim Limbach | Stevens Point, Wisconsin | February 15, 2010
Letter on: Why couldn't he wait?
“I guess God is NOT on Arizona's side. But I should like to defer to the Holy Reverend Patrick Robertson's in depth analysis of possible satanic intervention. I drove 9 Nash Ramblers but I'm damn glad not to be one of Leroy's kinfolk.”
-Jim Limbach | Stevens Point, Wisconsin | February 15, 2010
Letter on: Luddites unite!
“Further liberal analysis may prove prophetic. (See New Yok Times op-ed columnist Frank Rich's Feb. 13 article: "Palin's Cunning Sleight of Hand" ) After the tea party address she was much more obviously reading from her pretty little paw during a fox snooze interview. If a person DVRed with a machine allowing one to enlarge the image you could read her inane talking points as Comedy Channel did for last week's Daily Show.
The New York Times can document her falling poll ratings but the tea party movement may be the real threat to decent representation in the next Congress and Palin's palm reading could indeed be a shrewd move to enlarge this faux progressive deception.”
-Jim Limbach | Stevens Point, Wisconsin | February 15, 2010
Letter on: Amending an abomination
“Hurray for John Conyers, Donna Edwards, John Kerry and Russ Feingold! (And anyone else in Congress willing to stand up to the corporate thugs who have done such damage to our democracy!)
A constitutional amendment is necessary, but meanwhile, we can take some lesser actions to reduce the impact of this Supreme Court decision. As consumers, we can buy locally and refuse to patronize the big multi-national corporations; local purchases support the community and provide the most jobs. When election coverage occurs, we can TURN OFF the TV, and refuse to listen to the hate ads. We can deal with Main St. banks and credit unions. We can support legislation to revive anti-trust laws and provide for public financing of elections, as well as efforts to make the corporations (and unions) accountable for the money they spend influencing elections. We can make our voices heard at shareholder meetings. We understand that the major interest of a corporation is to make profit, but it should not be at the expense of the public interest, our democracy or our fragile planet.”
-Marliss Rogers | Port WAshington, WI | February 15, 2010
Letter on: Do you get it?
“Right now, Sarah Palin is a "Media Whore for Profit," and the media is part of her staff when it pays attention to her. That includes Fighting Bob.com. Why not have all agree to totally ignore her unless she makes HARD news by some real ACTION. Of course, she says she will run for President -- that's an option she keeps open because it adds to her "celebrity" and marketability among the crazies.
Don't take any of her blatherings seriously or pass them on until she actually officially enters the race in 2012. I'd rather hear about her husband who was the real "shadow governor" while she held office, and what they both did, especially what laws they broke or profits they made from their "celebrity status." Also, we should hear about her real ties to the Neo-Con Right Wing which she activated a year before she became VP candidate, and then became one of our nation's most obvious media whores!”
-Dave Steffenson | Madison, WI | February 15, 2010
Letter on: Amending an abomination
“The Supreme Court's decision was egregious in nature, seeking to continue the concentration of power in this country to those of the few rather than that of the masses. Corporations enjoy greater access to politicians than do the vast majority of Americans.
A constitutional amendment is needed to define clearly the scope of campaign finance. The amendment proposed does not go far enough to curtail the abuse that will occur because of the court's decision. The amendment must address:
who can donate to persons seeking office (only individual residents residing in the area to be served by the elected official. corporations, unions, political action committees, political parties, or other groups of any kind are not allowed to donate money. Parties may provide guidance to candidates, but must not be allowed to provide financial backing thus avoiding indirect donations to candidates.)
how much can be donated (a nominal amount $1,000 so that all can have equal access)
when donations can be given (only during a specific period of time beginning one year before the election)
how to handle monies not spent on the election (must be returned to state or federal government. Candidates may not keep a war-chest for future elections)
Furthermore, the amendment must also address the influence of money on politicians by banning travel on corporate jets regardless if the politician reimburses the company for the cost of the trip, and it must ban corporate (or other organization) sponsored trips. The amendment must address elected officials serving as lobbyists after leaving office (banned from doing this period). The amendment must also detail how advertising may be done for elections. Since radio and TV airways belong to the public, radio and TV will provide X number of free advertising spots during prime time for each election for each level of candidate. The amendment must also address elected official private wealth holdings. Once the official is elected, he/she must divest themselves of all stocks, bonds, mutual funds, or other investments. The government can set up an account that the official may deposit these funds into and which pays a variable interest rate based on an agreed upon factor (Congress cannot change the interest rate).
In addition to this amendment, another amendment is needed to spell out how voting districts will be identified. Districts must have regular boundaries and not be drawn to ensure that the district is either republican or democratic. Districts should be drawn starting at the southeast corner of each state and drawn as closely as possible into a rectangle or square shape until the proportional number of population is chosen.
This is the most crucial time in American history. Either we maintain our democracy or we become a plutocracy with the rich determining all laws and rules.”
-Michael Stein | Muskego, WI | February 15, 2010
Letter on: Tough choices
“RMJ - the purpose of a corporation is to limit the liability of the corporation's owners. This legal entity allows investors to limit their financial losses to the amount of their initial investment and if the corporation is sued for malfeasance the owners have immunities from prosecution.
While citizens have the right to free speech, we do not have the right to commit slander or libel without potential civil action. The associations of people (usually formed as corporations) that you mention are protected from direct civil law by a state created legal entity to slander and libel for them without fear of civil lawsuits personally impacting their lives. The corporation will simply take the heat, be dissolved, and spring up with a new name elsewhere.
You are right, RMJ, corporations (or associations of people) do enjoy an uncivil amount of freedom today. That is why the real solution is a Constitutional Amendment clearly defining what a citizen of the United States is verses a state created legal entity, and what civil liberties and immunities each are afforded.
Anonymity encourages the most cowardly of human traits. Accountability can drive significant changes in behavior. The anonymous owners of corporate "citizens" simply need to be held accountable for their legal entity's actions. Only then will they be just like the rest of us.”
-Lex Tinker-Sackett | Eau Claire, WI | February 15, 2010
Letter on: Why couldn't he wait?
“Often I lay awake at night wondering how the human race ever got as far as it did.”
-Jim | Neenah, WI | February 15, 2010
Letter on: Tough choices
“RMJ is a constitutional scholar. He is obviously the best person to evaluate the legal arguments surrounding this issue. Just read his letter, and you can come to no other conclusion.
I don't think I've ever read a letter here that was so full of declarative statements and so void of any supporting facts or documentation.
But as RMJ writes, everyone gets to have an opinion, no matter how baseless.”
-Tim | Almena, WI | February 15, 2010
Letter on: Why couldn't he wait?
“Isn't it time we start messing with the system before we too die of natural causes?
Whatever we can't fix or change today will make future generations wonder about our own competence.”
-Franz Fripplfrappl | Stoughton, WI | February 15, 2010
Letter on: Tough choices
“The court simply upheld the constitutional right of free persons to form associations and the constitutional right of associations to disseminate information. This is the foundation of our country. Under your definition, the republican and democratic parties could not even run issue ads -- after all they are associations of people who disseminate information. In fact, so is a newspaper.
Clearly you just want to pick which associations may be heard in the public forum. In short, you wish to make laws that limit the ability of free associations to disseminate information. And it is precisely that which the constitution protects us from. You know, "shall make no law . . ."
This really is a no-brainer. I was shocked that it was a split decision. The majority's opinion was reasoned and well-founded in precedent, while the dissent was simply a Manifesto against corporations and was nearly void of precedent or constitutional foundation.”
-RMJ | Hudson | February 14, 2010
Letter on: Tough choices
“Now that corporations have real human attributes and privileges, maybe we should provide an appropriate online dating service to handle their needs.
"Young company with great potential seeks older sugar daddy type corporation for a romp in the market and an after hours stroll down Wall St."
"Need ride to Washington to hook up with good solid group. Not a risk taker but drugs and tobacco are OK. Send balance sheet."
"You can bank on me to bring about the change you want. Come on over and bring the oil."”
-Franz Fripplfrappl | Stoughton, WI | February 14, 2010
Letter on: Do you get it?
“RMJ from Hudson is so vague perhaps he/she could be specific. And to another blogger, please....you expalined clearly why independents remain independent....just like fightin' Bob.
Democrats are like cats and Republicans are like rhinoscerous! Congress behavior clearly shows that!”
-independent modernate | madison, wi | February 14, 2010
Letter on: Amending an abomination
“Hats off to the patriots on the Hill that care more about democracy than money in proposing this amendment!”
-J.P. the Populist | Bruce,WI | February 14, 2010
Letter on: Serious failures
“A third party?
Do what I do. Become an Independent. No party loyalty here, neither party deserves it.
And an Independent voter can indeed be independent!
The problem with third parties is that they have too much of an uphill battle against the entrenched prostituted parties.”
-J.P. the Populist | Bruce,WI | February 14, 2010
Letter on: Wonder no more
“After much serious thought, I have concluded the best way to beat this economy is to start one's own country.
As a fledgling country, if I can't get millions of dollars from what's left of the US government, I could easily survive on what a good lobbyist would be willing to spend.
Either way, I figure it's easier than standing in the unemployment line and quicker than waiting another two years for a job that will not pay me enough to recover from 2-4 years of unpaid bills.
Of course, I could always build a skyscraper and call myself a bank. Not only would I get a bailout from the government, I could also pay myself millions for being so smart.”
-Franz Fripplfrappl | Stoughton, WI | February 13, 2010
Letter on: Grab your paintbrush!
“A network of commuter trains would be great for Wisconsin, but who is going to use them?
Is there really sufficient need for a train between Milwaukee and Madison? A Milwaukee-Chicago train makes sense but are there that many people commuting between Madison and Milwaukee to justify the expense?
Can you imagine how wonderful it would be for every town within Dane county to be interconnected with a bike trail, especially if trails would go through more scenic areas? Not only would such a network promote energy conservation, we would also be promoting a healthier lifestyle.
A bolder and perhaps more wise investment would be in bicycle paths connecting villages, towns and cities. Urban areas should have safe, efficient bicycle thoroughfares. I think this is a wiser investment in transportation dollars.
Make it a joy to ride a bike and people will do so. Europe has many urban areas with great biking. We should do the same.”
-Franz Fripplfrappl | Stoughton, WI | February 12, 2010
Letter on: Is there a community?
“I just always remember your take on the 30,000 lobbyists during one of your campaigns. You said "makes you want to get the Orkin man." I still really enjoy the comparison.”
-Kathleen Hart | Greendale, WI | February 12, 2010
Letter on: Grab your paintbrush!
“I'm as disinclined as anybody to look a gift horse in the mouth, but I'm not a transportation engineer or a civil planner. I do not know if the rail line is a great idea we just didn't have the cash to start for ourselves or a solution in search of a problem.
I do think it's worth questioning who's going to be riding this train. I love the idea; I'm not quite sold on the reality yet - especially if we're only going to the airport.”
-Jeff | Madison | February 12, 2010
Letter on: Frank would be smiling
“The goal of the prosecutorial game seems to be to convict SOMEBODY. If SOMEBODY happens to be guilty, so much the better.”
-jake | Menasha | February 12, 2010
Letter on: Frank would be smiling
“I am confused. Are prosecutors more worried about protecting their convictions than ensuring the innocent are set free? It seems to me convicting innocent persons means the guilty person is still free at large.”
-Nick | MIlwaukee | February 11, 2010
Letter on: Frank would be smiling
“Ed,
I also miss my father every day. It is important that we all, in our individual ways, continue to fight for the principles espoused by dad.
I see that Governor Pawlenty wants to increase the prison sentences for sex offenders. Before long, Minnesota may catch up to Wisconsin and its corrections budget will soon exceed its budget for higher education.
Keep up the fight.”
-Jim Remington | New Richmond, WI | February 11, 2010
Letter on: Greenhouse and other gases
“Can we really come together enough to do something about these serious issues like the Asian Carp ending up in our lakes--I wonder. It seems as though it has become difficult if not impossible to work together anymore. What a comment on the state of our society! Time was when there was disagreement between parties, but not the mean-spirited obstructionism that seems to be such a part of political life today. It disgusts people and keeps us from having hope that we can do something about such important issues as the condition of the Great Lakes or climate change. The Republicans obstruct and deny, and the Democrats show lack of courage and strength in their positions, and nothing is accomplished. Meanwhile, the big multi-national corporations contiue to buy their way into our democracy, caring for nothing other than big profits. We need something more than a tea party!
Bob LaFollette, where are you when we need you?”
-Marliss Rogers | Port WAshington, Wisconsin | February 9, 2010
Letter on: Serious failures
“The progressive Democrats in the House of Representatives have done a reasonably good job, unfortunately their job is only a part.
A major problem is the seniority system in the Senate. This bring us committee Chairs like Joe Lieberman, Ben Nelson, Kent Conrad and Max Baucus, along with Harry Reid. All sold out to special interests and most representing states where people vote against their own self-interest.
It is time for the progressive Senators to stand up and vote to replace these do-nothing chairs with people who will lead and get things done for America.
It won't change the 60-vote issue, but it will sure as heck get things moving.”
-Tim | Barron, WI | February 9, 2010
Letter on: On an island
“Thanks, Gerry. Nice tongue-in-cheek comments. Yes, it's easier just being "the Party of No" than having to think through a position based on research and common sense.”
-John Smart | Park Falls WI | February 9, 2010
Letter on: Serious failures
“For 30 of my 39 years I have lived in the shadow of conservative policy begun with Reagan's Presidency. I do not remember the good old days of Democratic power.
It is hard for me to hope for a solution from the mute, castrated Democratic party that has done nothing but sample the winds of public opinion and shift ever right of center. Although I empathize with those who remember and hope for a return to glory, I simply do not see it happening with the enormous burden of campaign finance occupying career politician's every waking moment.
Talk is cheap. I am more inclined daily to simply run for Congress as an independent and take the fight to them.
My platform:
* Institute Medicare for All, increase existing Medicare withholding by 4% for employers and 4% for employees to pay for true universal health care
* Increase the top tax rate to 70% (as it was in 1980) for the top 5% of earners - use that money to balance the budget and pay down the National debt
* Eliminate the income cap on Social Security contributions ($106,800 for 2010), so that no matter how much you make you continue to pay in the same percentage as everyone else - use that money to shore up and expand Social Security
* End the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan - use a portion of the war budget on humanitarian efforts to truly win by making friends of our alleged enemies
* Pass term limit legislation to make our elected officials use their time wisely and not seek eternal careers in office
* Drastically cut the Defense budget - use the money to dramatically increase the Health and Human Services budget
We do not need a third party, one exists called "independent". Who will vote for me in the Fall? Or better yet, who else will run?
It is time to stop talking and start winning.”
-Lex Tinker-Sackett | Eau Claire, WI | February 9, 2010
Letter on: Is there a community?
“We may be on top of the food chain but humanity certainly is lacking in many ways.
We might be smart but we lack common sense.
Disasters are bound to happen but we do not have a workable network of supplies and response teams. We have weekend warrior types who live for their 15 minutes of fame and who disappear just as fast as they arrived once the "fun" part is over. We have in place no long term strategies for recovery whether it be from a natural disaster or terrorist attack. Wait for the big one and you'll see what I mean.
The gridlock created by a few snowflakes is nothing when compared to that maintained by the flakes we have elected. Our recourse has always been to replace them with fresh ones. We never learn.
Lobbyists are a troubling lot. When is the last time you saw one at the unemployment office or in a food line?”
-Franz Fripplfrappl | Stoughton, WI | February 9, 2010
Letter on: Serious failures
“Democrats were swept into office in 2008 to do something for the average person. The Bush administration's goals had been to reduce US wages to third-world levels, to wage unending wars and to launch an assault on the American public to leave them unable to fight back. It worked!
As they so often do, once in power Democrats decided to favor the rich, favor insurance companies and ensure government workers were taken care of before the private sector.
Examined objectively, there is little difference between the Democrats and Republicans. Democrats insult the Constitution by refusing to investigate the many crimes committed by Bush which left the people powerless to fight back. They toady to large corporations, and leave the burden of paying for unending wars and assaults on our civil liberties.
I would favor a socialist party. It worked in Wisconsin before and it can work again. What we have now clearly does not work. Our US Senators appear powerless; while single senators from other states (Shelby - Lieberman) hold the entire government hostage ours have no power at the national level at all. Why is that?”
-Atty. Nick Zales | MIlwaukee WI | February 9, 2010
Letter on: Serious failures
“Would you call Ryan's gutsy proposal Leadership? Some do.”
-Jo Egelhoff | Appleton, WI | February 9, 2010
Letter on: Serious failures
“How does the ordinary person get his/her voice heard? Our votes have been weakened by those who have money and power. Our letters get canned replies touting all the wonderful things our representatives have done or said when they agree and blaming others when they do not. Phone calls are returned by powerless lackeys.
The media no longer simply reports facts, they skew them to satisfy editorial policy.
Forming a new party is an admirable response but don't expect a new party to solve real problems for real people.
If it's jobs we want, then let's start working with one another to create good jobs with livable wages. We must insist that employers take less for themselves and giving more to us workers so we can all get the ball rolling again.
If its healthcare, let's start working with doctors to keep costs down by first not burdening an already over burdened system. If it's a choice of getting paid, I bet most doctors would be happy with something rather than with nothing.
If a neighbor is out of work, share a meal or lend that neighbor a hand. We are all friends and neighbors in one way or another. These are times when we need to pull together and give one another support and encouragement and hope.
If we are to change the tenor of our communities and country, we need to be more aware of what's going on around us. We need to become socially proactive.
We need to instill hope that the future will not only work, but that it will be there when we arrive.
Sitting on our hands or in the comforts of our own spheres of happiness no longer cuts it.”
-Franz Fripplfrappl | Stoughton, WI | February 9, 2010
Letter on: Greenhouse and other gases
“I've been a Democrat and a Rebublican, but now I consider myself neither. The Democrats want Cap and Trade, which I think is just another way to trade money and will probably result in all kinds of money making schemes which the Republicans may embrace. I think the solution is for each State to have a Clean and Maintain Law, that is overseen by the Counties. With the amount of landfills and industry in Wi. there is no way the DNR can oversee everything that happens and what is leaching. For a full year
I have scoured the State for help with an enviromental issue I was looking into, everyone said it wasn't there job. The public needs to know exactly where to go when they find a problem or need help. I have called the Republicans to no avail, and the Democrats the same response. These problems have been around during both party rule, everyone is afraid to do or say anything because they may offend someone who didn,t do their job or someone they golf with. I believe people are just sick of it, that's why they are Tea Partying, which may or maynot be the answer but somethings got to give. People are ready to do whatever it takes to change things. Maybe when people feel comfortable with their own enviroment they may start paying attention to the world enviroment. People living in and around landfills don't know of the dangers in their own backyards, how would you expect them to understand a global crisis. I believe it has to start at home, each State taking care of itself then we can conquer the world enviroment as a Nation.”
-Cathy Schnur | Sheboygan Wisconcin | February 8, 2010
Letter on: Do you get it?
“Yes, Bob -- if folks don't agree with you then they either misunderstand the question or they are simply stupid.
But I'm sure you guys can put everything in order. Just as soon as you rid of your opponents of their God-given right of association and the right to disseminate information. Hmmm, I wonder if any other politically-minded persons have ever thought to do that? Perhaps we should refer to the history books . . .”
-RMJ | Hudson | February 8, 2010
Letter on: On an island
“The Republican leadership style described in John Smart's article requires very little human judgement or creativity. A relatively simple computer program could review proposals with a simple search checklist and then issue a yes or no decision. The current Republican leadership style has the advantage of leaving these elected leaders free to use their judgement and creativity raising support for their re-elections and personal fortunes.”
-Gerry Campbell | Madison, WI | February 8, 2010
Letter on: On an island
“"Obama gave the Republicans their comeuppance..."
Maybe. Maybe not. If we take that to mean payback, then progressives standing up and moving ahead with the agenda we were promised last year is the only road to payback I see. The road may be mined with distortions about debt load and who incurred it, global warming and who causes it, and medical care and who doesn't want many to have it. Harry Truman understood red herring season. Jack Kennedy articulated vigor. Lyndon Johnson demonstrated that both Beagles and Democrats could be effectively picked up by the ears. Let's ask our current leadership to reread those who walked that same road and then stand up and move on.”
-James Lindemann | McFarland, WI | February 8, 2010
Letter on: Do you get it?
“Hearing Palin reminded me of the goofball and opportunist senator in the movie "The Manchurian Candidate."
She has her nitwit fans. Nobody ever went broke underestimating the intelligence of the American public.
Democrats beware. You underestimate Palin at your own peril. Haven't any of you noticed the increase in the amount of Palin style eye wear among women?
Remember Reagan? His ghost stalks the halls of the Teabagger Convention and his sainthood is apparent.”
-Griebnotz Dorkpfester | Egg Harbor,WI | February 8, 2010
Letter on: Do you get it?
“Hey-- this is the FIGHTING BOB website. Going back to bed is NOT an option.
As my fortune cookie once told me:
"Keep on charging the enemy so long as there is life."
Palin is the new figurehead leader of American fascism, as was Reagan in the 1980's. The country has never come out of the dark ages that Reagan's administration imposed---Clinton was little better than the Republicans, providing no new direction at all. The misfortune of the Sept. 11 terror attacks has re-ignited national chauvinism and militarism in the USA to provide the final ingredients for the fascist "perfect storm."
The election of President Obama was greeted with such joy by liberals because we were foolish enough to believe his rhetoric. Always watch what people do, not what they say. A bitter lesson. When FDR took office, he said "Our first task is to put people to work." Under Mr. Obama, this was overlooked. And instead of closing the banks and sorting them out, it was "bailouts for billionaires."
Thus, even though FDR couldn't fix the Depression, he at least gained popular support and staved off fascism in America. Mr. Obama, truckling to those who despise him, has forfeited public support and discouraged and demoralized his own strongest base.
Note that Palin's "20%" as you call them (I think it's more like 40%!!) are enthusiastic. That's because they're not in retreat. Indeed, most of them are not even badly off---but they do FEAR losing their affluence, to forces they don't understand, but can personify in the scapegoat of "liberals" and "government."
The so-called moderates or independents are neither moderate nor independent. They are uninformed or rather ignorant people who pay only enough attention to conform---to flock along with whoever looks like a leader with a lively bunch of followers.
Right now, the political future looks grim. I think it is chiefly because you can't run an empire as if it were the old republic that it once was. Empire requires imperial authoritarianism to sustain itself. Note carefully that the Obama administration is in court, and has won the case, to uphold the Bush "unitary presidential powers" to use the telecom corporations to spy on all Americans under the pretext of "state secrets"---and any and all laws and Constitutions to the contrary be damned.
You can't get around it. And let me be the first one here to advocate the impeachment of Eric Holder and of his boss, Barack Obama.”
-Oliver Steinberg | St. Paul, MN | February 8, 2010
Letter on: Let us hear from you!
“I really fear for the state of Wisconsin. First of all, our state was ruined by Tommy Thompson and his good-ol'boy ruination for all those years. Then we get a good ol-boy Democrat, Jim Doyle, who kind of kept the wolves from the door on a lot of things but I sure don't like this privatizing education. It's fishy that Barbara Lawton isn't running - I was so looking forward to her as Gov - and Tom Barrett (who I never liked) is being pushed. We do not need our schools privatized. Anyone who stands up to the Race to the Top (sounds SO Republican) privatization BS has my backing. What we need is a new breed of Democrats - or a Green - that will fix the mess. We don't need Democrat-lite or going back to the Dark Ages with Republicans!!!”
-Ingrid Gottfried | Portage, Wisconsin | February 8, 2010
Letter on: Leading nowhere
“As John Dean once pointed out, Republicans rule; Democrats govern. To which I would add, Democrats govern if they have competent political leadership. Otherwise, they flounder, as we see now.
All this stuff about bi-partisanship is so much nonsense. The Republicans have NO interest in compromise or bipartisanship, and this has been the case since their political gurus taught them the Mussolini Mambo back in the '80's. That guy whose name I forget (dead now) and Roger Ailes and Karl Rove--they provided the coaching and the fascist mind-set. The Republicans want power and they know what to do with it when they get it---line their pockets and handcuff their foes.
It is not a matter of "extreme partisanship" on both sides, as the corporate media wants to analyze things. The extreme partisanship is all on the GOP side. They're the ones casting unanimous votes on every bill; they're the ones whose mere threat of a filibuster causes Harry Reid's knees to weaken and his spine to turn to jelly. Therefore, they "filibuster" EVERYTHING--without even the minimal effort of having to get out of their chairs!
President Obama and his advisors are running away from their base of support faster than even the most cynical detractors could have imagined. As a result, the Democrats will get walloped this fall. The Atlantic Monthly's portrayal of Obama as Herbert Hoover seems more and more accurate.
But the next act won't be FDR . . . it will be scary.”
-Oliver Steinberg | St.Paul, MN | February 8, 2010
Letter on: Do you get it?
“If the next election should be between Obama and Palin, I would bet many will vote based on color.
If it is between Hillary and Palin, the bimbo from Alaska might get more votes than we'd like to admit because she would have the Limbaugh stamp of approval. We all know what Rush thinks of Hillary.
Poll taxes might be a thing of the past but it will not surprise me if registered voters would have to have permits to shoot a moose. Brace yourself for a one moose permit, one vote system of politics, plaid flannel shirt optional.
If Sarah were to run and (dread the thought) get elected, her party would be the party to nowhere, you betcha.”
-Franz Fripplfrappl | Stoughton, WI | February 8, 2010
Letter on: Greenhouse and other gases
“Yes, the Republicans and all the other naysayers have yet to figure out or even to understand that a healthy planet and a healthy environment are essential to economic prosperity, our health and well-being.
If we lose our environment, how will we survive as a species? How will we have a future to enjoy? How will we raise our children to vote Democrat?
Aha! That's their ploy. Allowing for an environmental disaster must be part of the Republican scheme to assure their ilk gets elected. then there are those who would like to move up the date of rapture. In that case, the environment matters not.”
-Franz Fripplfrappl | Stoughton, WI | February 7, 2010
Letter on: Greenhouse and other gases
“You'd think Democrats would do something to stop Asian carp from entering the Great Lakes since there is actually proof they are near. Their lack of integrity is still their greatest moral failure.”
-TerryN | Elm Grove, WI | February 7, 2010
Letter on: Let us hear from you!
“Just in...
Pat Robertson declares that the Washington blizzard is the wrath of God made manifest because government has sold its soul (and our democracy) to corporate America.”
-Franz Fripplfrappl | Stoughton, WI | February 6, 2010
Letter on: The four percent solution
“According to a study done about 20 years ago by The Southern Poverty Law Center only 2% of news articles appearing in the major media outlets were written about issues relating to the "poor" while 15 to 20% of Americans live in poverty.
So I gotta' ask, if the media is liberal ......?
Or will you now define liberals as haters of the poor?
The researchers may be liberal, data is not.
A reporter may be liberal but his editor owes his future employment to his ability to satisfy the owner. Corporate ownership is decidedly not liberal.
We need to remove the wool from over our eyes!”
-Jim Limbach | Stevens Point, Wisconsin | February 6, 2010
Letter on: Here they come!
“How did corporations and lobbyists become so powerful in our elections? I am not convinced they did it all on their own. I think we the people let it happen many, many years ago and now we are about to pay the price.
If you want things to change, then we must band together and make change happen. Power and wealth do not make this a nation, people do, people as in you and I.”
-Franz Fripplfrappl | Stoughton, WI | February 5, 2010
Letter on: Here they come!
“I gotta say Ed, you nail the problem but WTF are us little people supposed to do? With all due respect to your efforts another Fest with speakers etc. grousing and telling us what the problem is and then sending people out to "get involved" or "hold their feet to the fire" is just so much happy crappy.
We need a true, and truly progressive, third party. You have said as much. The nitwit Teabaggers can get something organized but the pathetic left can't find the guts, organization, or leadership to bolt from the Dems and give them a dose of poltical "moral hazard".
I guess true activism and organization on the left is sort of like the female orgasm. It is rumored to exist. It is supposed to exist. It is said to happen. Some say it actually has happened from time to time. But it mostly remains elusive.
Ed, quit the grousing. If you can organize a festival every year you can organize a political convention to actually organize a third party. You may not have the juice of some but you do have a faithful following that respects you. Obambi is shaping up to be the Democratic Herbert Hoover. The Dems in congress are befuddled and gutless and nothing more than a herd of cats. In a three way race 34% of the vote means a win. Time to "get 'er done" and send the feckless Dems packing. They have become the Whigs and their day is done.”
-Griebnotz Doerkpfester | Egg Harbor, WI. | February 5, 2010
Letter on: Justice vs. democracy
“Jeff:
Here is the counter-argument:
Unfettered funding by corporations moves our nation toward a plutocracy, - a democracy of, by and for corporations rather than of, by and for the people.
In fact, a strong argument can be made that we are already a plutocracy.
Proof:
The average congressional race in the USA now costs over $1 million. Considering that a congressperson has two years, or 104 weeks in office prior to the next election, that means the congressperson has to raise about $10,000 a week! Certainly congresspersons are not receiving that amount of cash from the average, joe-six-pack citizen who contributes $50.00 to a political campaign. Hefty donations keep the vast majority of Americans from having a real voice in their federal government.
Is it any wonder then, why congress has provided hundreds of hundreds of billions in subsidies to banks, auto companies, oil companies, Etc. and so little money for education and other public improvements? The system of privately funded campaigns is corrupt in that the voices of the many are drowned-out by the voices of the few who have money. When I say our political system is corrupt, that is not to say it is illegal. I mean corrupt like a bad computer file: it works, but very poorly. Our privately funded campaign system is nothing less than legalized bribery!
Nor is this a republican or democrat issue. For all his populist rhetoric, President Obama has the exact same fiscal & monetary policies as President Bush. Both camps are funded by the corporate elite for the benefit of their stock holders. This is a very important point, because business NEVER donates, it invests! The difference being that one expects a return for their investment. In my opinion, the Supreme Court decision serves only to make the existing plutocracy less transparent.”
-Fred | New Berlin, WI | February 5, 2010
Letter on: Justice vs. democracy
“If corporations are given constitutional rights, the right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness (profit), shouldn't those responsible for their demise, IE corp. heads, board of directors, be charged with murder?”
-Geo Parrino | Oconomowoc | February 4, 2010
Letter on: Justice vs. democracy
“I don't like what this is probably going to do to elections, but I have to be honest. I don't see any reason that WEAC or Wisconsin Right to Life should be treated any differently from Charlie Sykes or Fighting Bob.com
If you've got a strong argument to the contrary, I'd love to hear it.”
-Jeff | Madison | February 4, 2010
Letter on: Big Money at bat
“It is time to quit giving Feingold a free ride on this one too. He voted to confirm Roberts. The Feingold mytique is wearing thin. If he really wants to characterize himself as a thoughtful independent then he should run as a true independent.
Instead he makes a great deal of hay on that issue but uses the resources of the Democratic party and the ground troops and volunteers from the party and then casts a vote for an activitst like Roberts.
Honestly, given the viral nature of the GOP these last few years did he honestly think Bush would put someone up for the court who was NOT a conservative activist?
Russ has outlived his usefullness. Name one major initiative he has seen through except McCain/Feingold. He has been AWOL on health care, card check, bank regulation, etc. etc.etc.
Dems should dump him and find a true liberal. I don't trust bi-partisan patter. When someone tells me they are bi-partisan or "independent" that just means they are going to shaft me.”
-Griebnotz Doerkpfester | Egg Harbor, WI. | February 4, 2010
Letter on: Justice vs. democracy
“It is precisely the speech that Goverment seeks to silence that the First Ammendment is intended to protect.”
-RMJ | Hudson, WI | February 4, 2010
Letter on: Big Money at bat
“Great points about the hypocrisy of the term "activist judges." The really disturbing thing is the 5 who comprised the majority in this case are likely to remain on the Court for years to come, since they're all still relatively young and in good physical health. Maybe the corporations they backed by their ruling will make them a better offer and they'll retire? One can only hope.......”
-Eznarf | Waukesha, Wi.(Beloiter, by birth!) | February 4, 2010
Letter on: Hard to believe
“A few suggestions for dealing with our current mess and the pandemic of government/corporate corruption.
1.) Move your money to a credit union or local bank. Close out your credit cards as soon as you are able. Put yourself on a cash only basis as much as possible.
2.) Boycott any and all businesses displaying the Chamber of Commerce logo/sign etc. The Chamber is bound and determined to outspend both the Dems and GOP in political efforts to get their way. Don't help them with your money and tell the local businesses why you are doing it.
3.) In the coming primaries and/or elections write in "None of the above" for any and all offices. Barring that then vote for the candidate who raises the least. The way things stand now it is doubtful that either of those choices could put us in a worse situation.
In other words, to the extent it is possible for us to do so it is time to quit playing in their sandbox. In the end they need us more than we need them. Just simple human and economic ecology.”
-Griebnotz Doerkpfester | Egg Harbor, WI. | February 3, 2010
Letter on: One newspaper's opinion
“So, how close to libel does this come? Is the reporting lazy with the contract facts, or deliberately misleading? Was the intent to maliciously damage his reputation? Of course, one shouldn't pick a fight with the dominant paper when moving to town on business...”
-Bruce Powell | Antigo WI | February 2, 2010
Letter on: Time for action
“I'm caught between poles on this one. On the one side, I see where a small group of people with enormous funding could push elected officials in ways that are not good for the people who elected them.
I do have a hard time drawing a line between unions, think tanks, advocacy groups like the NRA, the various ad hoc orgs that show up during election season and something like a newspaper, a television program or a wildly successful blog.
Are newspapers and other media outlets not corporations which seek to influence elections? What's the difference between "The Friends of So and So" running a spot decrying some failing of So and So's opposition and Fox News screaming that Obama is a socialist or Air America blasting out its own propoganda?
Honest question - I'm not claiming to have the answer. How do we muzzle political powermachines under the guise of protecting elections and leave folks like Glen Beck and Rachel Maddow to their own conscience?”
-Jeff | Madison | February 2, 2010
Letter on: Hard to believe
“These are tough times. Instead of everyone working together to keep our lives affordable, there are still those who think it is their divine mandate to raise prices, to gouge, to move ahead at the expense of those who can afford life's necessities least.
The banking industry is just one where money and profit come before people. It's as though bankers have forgotten that they rely on us just as much as we sometimes rely on them.
In order to get the economy moving again, everyone ought to take less and give more until we are all back on our feet. It's going to be a very long, slow and tough struggle to get things moving again if most of us remain oppressed by those who control our debts. These are the friends and neighbors who can help us most.”
-Franz Fripplfrappl | Stoughton, WI | February 2, 2010
Letter on: Time for action
“A breath of constitutional fresh air. Associations of people have a right to disseminate information into the public forum. Sounds like something straight from the mouths of our founding fathers. And, as usual, I am not required to listen.
By the way, Ed, you forgot to mention that these "corporations" that want to run issue ads are generally non-profit associations (Sierra Club, Right-to-Life) and associations of workers (labor/teacher unions). But please let us know when Goldman-Sachs or Proctor & Gamble start running issue ads!”
-RMJ | Hudson, WI | February 1, 2010
Letter on: Name names--please!
“Here's a name, courtesy of the Journal Sentinel:
Sheridan was reportedly "dating" Shanna Wycoff, a lobbyist for Cincinnati-based Axcess Financial, which operates Check 'N Go payday loan shops.”
-Nellie | Milwaukee | February 1, 2010
Letter on: Time for action
“Sorry, I think Mr. Kanak is wrong on this one. The budget proposals are from a guy who ran on Hope and Change but just can't seem to muster the guts to do it. I honestly think that is all there is to it.
It is the same old tired stuff we had from both Bushes and from Clinton too. Talk a good line but go after the little stuff. Also the stuff that is easy pickings with a defuse constituency. Schools, national parks, old people, etc., etc.
No real reform, defense (even stuff the Pentagon DOESN'T want) off the table, try to triangulate even when you and your party were given a mandate to change the game, etc.
I swear, sometime between election and inauguration day they (who knows who, a secret cabal) must send these guys to the island from Lost and brainwash them stupid!
God help us, no one else is able.”
-Griebnotz Doerkpfester | Egg Harbor, WI. | February 1, 2010
Letter on: Time for action
“President Obama recent announcements regarding gifts to the coal and nuclear power industries, increases in war funding and the freezing of social welfare funding is indicative of the power of the recent Supreme Court ruling.
The corporations won and the people who control them will profit from the misery of the people. Since I am led to believe that corporations are required to seek profit above all else than deaths that occur as a result of their activities are legal and justifiable.”
-Richard Kanak | Cherry Valley, Illinois | February 1, 2010
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