By Michael Winship
February 28, 2009
In 9th grade high school English, we read that famous William Carlos Williams poem:
Read on.
Saturday, February 28, 2009
Friday, February 27, 2009
Can You Trust the Republicans?
By Robert Parry
February 27, 2009
If you watch the pundits on cable news or read the big-name newspaper columnists, you will find a general consensus that the national Republicans are returning to their core principles in their near-unanimous opposition to President Barack Obama’s stimulus bill and other proposals.
Read on.
February 27, 2009
If you watch the pundits on cable news or read the big-name newspaper columnists, you will find a general consensus that the national Republicans are returning to their core principles in their near-unanimous opposition to President Barack Obama’s stimulus bill and other proposals.
Read on.
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Leahy, Pelosi Differ on Bush Inquiry
By Jason Leopold
February 26, 2009
February 26, 2009
In one week, Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Patrick Leahy says he will begin establishing a “commission of inquiry” to investigate the Bush administration’s use of torture and other abuses of power, but House Speaker Nancy Pelosi is objecting to his plan of granting immunity to some witnesses.
The GOP's Anti-Obama Propaganda
By Robert Parry
February 25, 2009
February 25, 2009
Today’s Republicans are thumbing through Newt Gingrich’s worn playbook of 1993 looking for tips on how to blunt President Barack Obama’s political momentum and flip it to their advantage. In doing so, they also appear to have dug in to what might be called the secret appendix.
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
'News' Media Disgraced in Levy Case
By Jeff Cohen
February 24, 2009
For four months beginning in May 2001, major U.S. media outlets, including all three cable news channels, took the American public for a ride -- perpetrating a hoax that a married congressman was somehow involved in the disappearance of a female intern.
Read on.
February 24, 2009
For four months beginning in May 2001, major U.S. media outlets, including all three cable news channels, took the American public for a ride -- perpetrating a hoax that a married congressman was somehow involved in the disappearance of a female intern.
Read on.
JFK, FDR and 'Seven Days in May'
By Lisa Pease
February 24, 2009
Robert Parry recently wrote of how President Obama's early actions might bring him a "Seven Days in May moment," referring to a fictitious coup attempt from a film of the same name, in which a popular military figure nearly took over the government.
Read on.
February 24, 2009
Robert Parry recently wrote of how President Obama's early actions might bring him a "Seven Days in May moment," referring to a fictitious coup attempt from a film of the same name, in which a popular military figure nearly took over the government.
Read on.
Monday, February 23, 2009
Obama Signals 'Bush-Lite' on Liberties
By Ivan Eland
February 24, 2009
February 24, 2009
Barack Obama entered the presidency as one of the most rhetorically pro-civil liberties politicians in recent memory.
Anti--Gay Bias Should Anger Christians
By Howard Bess
February 23, 2009
On Aug. 23, 2008, Australian diver Matthew Mitcham executed the highest-scoring dive ever made in Olympic history. The dive was a complicated maneuver called a back 2½ somersault with 2½ twists. Matthew nailed it with perfection.
Read on.
February 23, 2009
On Aug. 23, 2008, Australian diver Matthew Mitcham executed the highest-scoring dive ever made in Olympic history. The dive was a complicated maneuver called a back 2½ somersault with 2½ twists. Matthew nailed it with perfection.
Read on.
Yoo's Memos Give Retroactive Cover
By Jason Leopold
February 23, 2009
A Justice Department inquiry has found that the Bush administration’s legal opinions justifying the torture of “war on terror” detainees were hastily drafted after one prisoner was already subjected to waterboarding, a practice that creates the sensation of drowning, according to several sources familiar with the still-classified report.
Read on.
February 23, 2009
A Justice Department inquiry has found that the Bush administration’s legal opinions justifying the torture of “war on terror” detainees were hastily drafted after one prisoner was already subjected to waterboarding, a practice that creates the sensation of drowning, according to several sources familiar with the still-classified report.
Read on.
Capital Hypocrisy Rooted in Money
By Michael Winship
February 23, 2009
The great movie comic and professional curmudgeon W.C. Fields once said, "You can fool some of the people some of the time - and that's enough to make a decent living."
Read on.
February 23, 2009
The great movie comic and professional curmudgeon W.C. Fields once said, "You can fool some of the people some of the time - and that's enough to make a decent living."
Read on.
Friday, February 20, 2009
Obama's 'Seven Days in May' Moment
By Robert Parry
February 20, 2009
February 20, 2009
Only one month into his presidency, Barack Obama is finding himself confronting not only George W. Bush’s left-behind crises but an array of influential enemies in the military, financial circles, the political world and the media – determined to thwart Obama’s agenda for “change.”
Read on.Prosecution for Bush War Crimes
By Marjorie Cohn
February 20, 2009
Since taking office, President Barack Obama has instituted many changes that break with the policies of the Bush administration. The new President has ordered that no government agency will be allowed to torture, that the U.S. prison at Guantánamo will be shuttered, and that the CIA’s secret black sites will be closed down.
Read on.
February 20, 2009
Since taking office, President Barack Obama has instituted many changes that break with the policies of the Bush administration. The new President has ordered that no government agency will be allowed to torture, that the U.S. prison at Guantánamo will be shuttered, and that the CIA’s secret black sites will be closed down.
Read on.
Thursday, February 19, 2009
Gunplay, a Chimp & the Presidency
By William Loren Katz
February 19, 2009
On Feb. 18, New York Post published a cartoon of two policemen who have just slain the author of the economic stimulus package -- a chimpanzee who lies in a pool of blood. The paper's defense was that the cartoon was just good-hearted fun, no harm intended to the African-American President who devised and signed the package.
Read on.
February 19, 2009
On Feb. 18, New York Post published a cartoon of two policemen who have just slain the author of the economic stimulus package -- a chimpanzee who lies in a pool of blood. The paper's defense was that the cartoon was just good-hearted fun, no harm intended to the African-American President who devised and signed the package.
Read on.
The US Media & Democracy in Crisis
By Robert Parry
February 19, 2009
For those of us who have criticized the U.S. mainstream media for failing to resist right-wing pressure over the past three decades, there is a sad sense of vindication watching the downward spiral of so many once-venerable newspapers. But this trend carries with it a new threat to American democracy.
Read on.
February 19, 2009
For those of us who have criticized the U.S. mainstream media for failing to resist right-wing pressure over the past three decades, there is a sad sense of vindication watching the downward spiral of so many once-venerable newspapers. But this trend carries with it a new threat to American democracy.
Read on.
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
'Bitter' Gore; 'Principled' McCain
By Robert Parry
February 18, 2009
When we started Consortiumnews.com back in 1995, it was already apparent that the mainstream U.S. press corps was beyond reform. The corporate media had, in effect, merged with the growing right-wing media in overplaying the “Clinton scandals.”
Read on.
February 18, 2009
When we started Consortiumnews.com back in 1995, it was already apparent that the mainstream U.S. press corps was beyond reform. The corporate media had, in effect, merged with the growing right-wing media in overplaying the “Clinton scandals.”
Read on.
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Needed NBC Series: 'Catch a Cheney'
By Jeff Cohen
February 17. 2009
I have a plan to get NBC out of last place in the ratings. I’m promising blockbuster audience and international buzz. As a once disgruntled ex-employee, I now just want to be positive and help NBC, which needs all the free advice it can get.
Read on.
February 17. 2009
I have a plan to get NBC out of last place in the ratings. I’m promising blockbuster audience and international buzz. As a once disgruntled ex-employee, I now just want to be positive and help NBC, which needs all the free advice it can get.
Read on.
Obama Seeks Deal on Bush Privilege
By Jason Leopold
February 17, 2009
Hoping for a negotiated settlement, Barack Obama’s Justice Department has requested a two-week delay in a court deadline regarding enforcement of congressional subpoenas demanding the testimony of two Bush administration officials.
Read on.
February 17, 2009
Hoping for a negotiated settlement, Barack Obama’s Justice Department has requested a two-week delay in a court deadline regarding enforcement of congressional subpoenas demanding the testimony of two Bush administration officials.
Read on.
The Price of America's Prison Gulags
By Anthony Gregory
February 17, 2009
A three-judge panel has tentatively ruled that “[t]he California prison system must reduce overcrowding by as many as 55,000 inmates within three years to provide a constitutional level of medical and mental health care,” according to the New York Times.
Read on.
February 17, 2009
A three-judge panel has tentatively ruled that “[t]he California prison system must reduce overcrowding by as many as 55,000 inmates within three years to provide a constitutional level of medical and mental health care,” according to the New York Times.
Read on.
Monday, February 16, 2009
Obama & the Media Dilemma
By Robert Parry
February 16, 2009
It was only a few years ago – when the Republicans controlled both Congress and the White House – that the U.S. news media offered up one-sided coverage of the Bush administration, relying on Republicans, right-wingers and pro-war military experts to shape what Americans got to see and read.
Read on.
February 16, 2009
It was only a few years ago – when the Republicans controlled both Congress and the White House – that the U.S. news media offered up one-sided coverage of the Bush administration, relying on Republicans, right-wingers and pro-war military experts to shape what Americans got to see and read.
Read on.
Republicans Bet on America's Failure
By Brent Budowsky
February 16, 2009
February 16, 2009
The passage of the $787 billion jobs bill represents a great victory for President Obama, a huge triumph for Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, and a tremendous moment for the smart Republican senators: Arlen Specter of Pennsylvania and Olympia Snowe and Susan Collins of Maine.
Sunday, February 15, 2009
Torture Report Erodes Bush's Defense
By Jason Leopold
February 15, 2009
A key line in George W. Bush’s defense against war crimes charges has weakened with the disclosure that an internal Justice Department watchdog has concluded that the legal advice, which cleared the way for Bush’s policies on torture and other abuse of detainees, was tainted by political influence.
Read on.
February 15, 2009
A key line in George W. Bush’s defense against war crimes charges has weakened with the disclosure that an internal Justice Department watchdog has concluded that the legal advice, which cleared the way for Bush’s policies on torture and other abuse of detainees, was tainted by political influence.
Read on.
Saturday, February 14, 2009
Obscene Wealth Can Be a Deadly Sin
By Howard Bess
February 14, 2009
February 14, 2009
In America it is common to define immorality as the misuse of sexual relationships.
The Oligarchy's Bailout Ball
By Michael Winship
February 14, 2009
You know what they say -- half a million dollars just doesn't go as far as it used to.
Read on.
February 14, 2009
You know what they say -- half a million dollars just doesn't go as far as it used to.
Read on.
Friday, February 13, 2009
Conyers Subpoenas Rove, Again
By Jason Leopold
February 13, 2009
Rejecting a compromise offer from ex-White House political adviser Karl Rove, House Judiciary Committee Chairman John Conyers issued another subpoena — the third in less than a year — demanding that Rove appear before Congress in 10 days to answer questions about his role in the firings of nine U.S. Attorneys and the prosecution of former Alabama Gov. Don Siegelman.
Read on.
February 13, 2009
Rejecting a compromise offer from ex-White House political adviser Karl Rove, House Judiciary Committee Chairman John Conyers issued another subpoena — the third in less than a year — demanding that Rove appear before Congress in 10 days to answer questions about his role in the firings of nine U.S. Attorneys and the prosecution of former Alabama Gov. Don Siegelman.
Read on.
The Ultra-Radical Republicans
By Robert Parry
February 13, 2009
Sixteen years ago, when another new Democratic President was trying to enact an economic package, the Republicans were entrenched in opposition, too. But there was a striking difference between those Republicans and today’s: the 1993 Republicans still showed some respect for democracy.
Read on.
February 13, 2009
Sixteen years ago, when another new Democratic President was trying to enact an economic package, the Republicans were entrenched in opposition, too. But there was a striking difference between those Republicans and today’s: the 1993 Republicans still showed some respect for democracy.
Read on.
Thursday, February 12, 2009
New Details on Torture Deaths
By Jason Leopold
February 12, 2009
In December 2002 – as the Bush administration was ratcheting up its harsh questioning of detainees – several captives died from “abusive” treatment at the hands of U.S. military interrogators in Afghanistan, according to newly declassified Defense Department documents.
Read on.
February 12, 2009
In December 2002 – as the Bush administration was ratcheting up its harsh questioning of detainees – several captives died from “abusive” treatment at the hands of U.S. military interrogators in Afghanistan, according to newly declassified Defense Department documents.
Read on.
The Case for a G.W. Bush Monument
By David Swanson
February 12, 2009
A letter to the editor in my local newspaper, the Charlottesville Daily Progress, has persuaded me to rethink the truly remarkable accomplishments of President George W. Bush and inspired me to join the movement to erect a Bush Memorial on the National Mall.
Read on.
February 12, 2009
A letter to the editor in my local newspaper, the Charlottesville Daily Progress, has persuaded me to rethink the truly remarkable accomplishments of President George W. Bush and inspired me to join the movement to erect a Bush Memorial on the National Mall.
Read on.
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
The GOP Jihad on Obama
By Robert Parry
February 10, 2009
February 10, 2009
Only a few weeks into Barack Obama’s presidency, a threatening political and media dynamic has rushed to the fore cutting short a very brief honeymoon.
The Fallacies of a 'Truth Commission'
By David Swanson
February 10, 2009
Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Patrick Leahy has now joined House Judiciary Committee Chairman John Conyers in proposing some sort of "truth and reconciliation" commission for the crimes of Bush and Cheney, as if Bush and Cheney have multiplied into a whole population that simply cannot be processed by our judicial system.
Read on.
February 10, 2009
Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Patrick Leahy has now joined House Judiciary Committee Chairman John Conyers in proposing some sort of "truth and reconciliation" commission for the crimes of Bush and Cheney, as if Bush and Cheney have multiplied into a whole population that simply cannot be processed by our judicial system.
Read on.
A Government of Laws, Not of Men
By Peter Dyer
February 10, 2009
Now that the unprecedented lawlessness of the Bush administration is history, we have an equally unprecedented opportunity to reaffirm the foundation of American democracy: the rule of law.
Read on.
February 10, 2009
Now that the unprecedented lawlessness of the Bush administration is history, we have an equally unprecedented opportunity to reaffirm the foundation of American democracy: the rule of law.
Read on.
Monday, February 09, 2009
Leahy Calls for Truth Commission
By Jason Leopold
February 9, 2009
As Democratic leaders struggle over what to do about the Bush administration’s past abuses, Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Patrick Leahy joined those advocating a “truth and reconciliation commission” that would seek facts, not jail time.
Read on.
February 9, 2009
As Democratic leaders struggle over what to do about the Bush administration’s past abuses, Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Patrick Leahy joined those advocating a “truth and reconciliation commission” that would seek facts, not jail time.
Read on.
The GOP's Filibuster Hypocrisy
By Robert Parry
February 9, 2009
Though seemingly forgotten by most TV talking heads, it was only three years ago, when the Republicans had control of both the White House and Congress – and “filibuster” was a dirty word.
Read on.
February 9, 2009
Though seemingly forgotten by most TV talking heads, it was only three years ago, when the Republicans had control of both the White House and Congress – and “filibuster” was a dirty word.
Read on.
Saturday, February 07, 2009
Gambling at Revolving-Door Roulette
By Michael Winship
February 7, 2009
Not even three weeks in office and President Barack Obama is discovering that being in charge is no bed of roses, even when you have a garden of them just outside your Oval Office windows.
Read on.
February 7, 2009
Not even three weeks in office and President Barack Obama is discovering that being in charge is no bed of roses, even when you have a garden of them just outside your Oval Office windows.
Read on.
Friday, February 06, 2009
Panetta Is Deferential to Republicans
By Ray McGovern
February 6, 2009
“I am a creature of Congress,” said Leon Panetta with a toothy grin, which was returned by equally wide smiles from members of the Senate Intelligence Committee meeting to consider his nomination to be director of the Central Intelligence Agency.
Read on.
February 6, 2009
“I am a creature of Congress,” said Leon Panetta with a toothy grin, which was returned by equally wide smiles from members of the Senate Intelligence Committee meeting to consider his nomination to be director of the Central Intelligence Agency.
Read on.
Thursday, February 05, 2009
Why Not Cut Military Spending?
By David Swanson
February 5, 2009
In the ordinary course of things in Washington, D.C., and on television, there are two separate conversations.
Read on.
February 5, 2009
In the ordinary course of things in Washington, D.C., and on television, there are two separate conversations.
Read on.
Tuesday, February 03, 2009
Is Peace Still an Option?
By Norman Solomon
February 4, 2009
The United States began its war in Afghanistan 88 months ago. "The war on terror" has no sunset clause. As a perpetual emotion machine, it offers to avenge what can never heal and to fix grief that is irreparable.
Read on.
February 4, 2009
The United States began its war in Afghanistan 88 months ago. "The war on terror" has no sunset clause. As a perpetual emotion machine, it offers to avenge what can never heal and to fix grief that is irreparable.
Read on.
First,, Jail All Bush's Lawyers
By Robert Parry
February 3, 2009
If new Attorney General Eric Holder really means what he said in his oath – that he will “support and defend the Constitution of the United States” – then he must give serious consideration to prosecuting crimes committed by the Bush administration, including its torturing of detainees.
Read on.
February 3, 2009
If new Attorney General Eric Holder really means what he said in his oath – that he will “support and defend the Constitution of the United States” – then he must give serious consideration to prosecuting crimes committed by the Bush administration, including its torturing of detainees.
Read on.
Accepting the End of the US Empire
By Ivan Eland
February 3, 2009
When you stop to think about it, people measure how well their lives are going not by their absolute state of being but by their situation relative to their expectations.
Read on.
February 3, 2009
When you stop to think about it, people measure how well their lives are going not by their absolute state of being but by their situation relative to their expectations.
Read on.
Monday, February 02, 2009
More Pressure for Bush Torture Probe
By Jason Leopold
February 2, 2009
Amid grassroots pressure to hold senior Bush administration officials accountable for torture and other crimes, an influential Democratic senator said President Barack Obama and Congress have no choice but to mount a serious investigation because to do nothing would invite a repetition of the abuses.
Read on.
February 2, 2009
Amid grassroots pressure to hold senior Bush administration officials accountable for torture and other crimes, an influential Democratic senator said President Barack Obama and Congress have no choice but to mount a serious investigation because to do nothing would invite a repetition of the abuses.
Read on.
Out in the Cold at Christmas
By Sherwood Ross
February 2, 2009
Every Christmas season a large electric star visible for miles is illuminated on a mountainside overlooking Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, to commemorate the time the holy family of Christianity took refuge in a manger on the night of Christ’s birth.
Read on.
February 2, 2009
Every Christmas season a large electric star visible for miles is illuminated on a mountainside overlooking Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, to commemorate the time the holy family of Christianity took refuge in a manger on the night of Christ’s birth.
Read on.
Friday, January 30, 2009
The Bad Bank v. Good Bank Option
By Brian Barger
January 30, 2009
So what's wrong with creating a "good bank" owned by the American people?
Read on.
January 30, 2009
So what's wrong with creating a "good bank" owned by the American people?
Read on.
Honoring an Iraq War Whistleblower
By Ray McGovern
January 30, 2009
Thank you, one and all, for coming this evening at such short notice and in such encouraging numbers. Our first order of business this evening is the presenting of the Sam Adams Associates for Integrity in Intelligence (SAAII) award to former Danish intelligence officer, Maj. Frank Grevil.
Read on.
January 30, 2009
Thank you, one and all, for coming this evening at such short notice and in such encouraging numbers. Our first order of business this evening is the presenting of the Sam Adams Associates for Integrity in Intelligence (SAAII) award to former Danish intelligence officer, Maj. Frank Grevil.
Read on.
Thursday, January 29, 2009
GOP Schools Obama on Partisanship
By Robert Parry
January 29, 2009
January 29, 2009
It is possible that President Barack Obama genuinely believes in reaching out to Republicans or perhaps he is just going through the motions because he knows the American people favor bipartisanship. But he can no longer harbor any real hope that his overtures to the GOP will bring significant votes for his policies.
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
New Bush/Rove Privilege Fight Looms
By Jason Leopold
January 27, 2009
George W. Bush is seeking to extend his sweeping concept of executive privilege into his post-presidency, with the first battle likely to be fought over a renewed demand from House Judiciary Committee Chairman John Conyers that Karl Rove finally testify about the politicization of the Justice Department.
Read on.
January 27, 2009
George W. Bush is seeking to extend his sweeping concept of executive privilege into his post-presidency, with the first battle likely to be fought over a renewed demand from House Judiciary Committee Chairman John Conyers that Karl Rove finally testify about the politicization of the Justice Department.
Read on.
The Republic Needs Bush's Prosecution
By Ivan Eland
January 27, 2009
The Obama administration is reluctant to turn over too many rocks in the Bush administration’s conduct in the “war on terror.”
Read on.
January 27, 2009
The Obama administration is reluctant to turn over too many rocks in the Bush administration’s conduct in the “war on terror.”
Read on.
Monday, January 26, 2009
With Bush Gone, Time to Exhale
By Vincent Guarisco
January 26, 2009
January 26, 2009
I call it Christmas in January. Indeed. I'm sure most of us are feeling a little less stressful (a bit lighter) after January 20th? Pinch me hard and quick, I'm as giddy as little tyke unwrapping presents under a tree. I can hardly believe this two-term misery tour is finally over.
Europe Hopes Obama Shifts on 'Terror'
By Don Ediger
January 26, 2009
President Barack Obama can make great strides in combating al-Qaeda and other terrorist groups if he abandons George W. Bush's heated rhetoric and unrealistic view of how terrorism is structured, says Rik Coolsaet, a top European expert on terrorism.
Read on.
January 26, 2009
President Barack Obama can make great strides in combating al-Qaeda and other terrorist groups if he abandons George W. Bush's heated rhetoric and unrealistic view of how terrorism is structured, says Rik Coolsaet, a top European expert on terrorism.
Read on.
Sunday, January 25, 2009
Bush's Faith-Based Gravy Train
By Howard Bess
January 25, 2009
During the presidential tenure of George W. Bush, a very significant, largely unnoticed organizational innovation took place.
Read on.
January 25, 2009
During the presidential tenure of George W. Bush, a very significant, largely unnoticed organizational innovation took place.
Read on.
Saturday, January 24, 2009
George W. Bush's Sci-Fi Disaster
By Robert Parry
January 24, 2009
In retrospect, George W. Bush’s presidency could be viewed as a science-fiction disaster movie in which an alien force seizes illegitimate control of a nation, saps its wealth, wreaks devastation, but is finally dislodged and forced to depart amid human hope for a rebirth.
Read on.
January 24, 2009
In retrospect, George W. Bush’s presidency could be viewed as a science-fiction disaster movie in which an alien force seizes illegitimate control of a nation, saps its wealth, wreaks devastation, but is finally dislodged and forced to depart amid human hope for a rebirth.
Read on.
A Different March on Washington
By Michael Winship
January 24, 2009
January 24, 2009
The image from Barack Obama’s inauguration that will stay with me forever is people walking. Walking from wherever they lived or were staying in Washington, DC. And all headed for the exact same place.
Friday, January 23, 2009
Democrats Inch Toward Torture Probe
By Jason Leopold
January 23, 2009
January 23, 2009
As President Barack Obama reverses some of ex-President George W. Bush’s most controversial “war on terror” policies, a consensus seems to be building among Democratic congressional leaders that further investigations are needed into Bush’s use of torture and other potential crimes.
Mitchell's Appointment Marks Change
By Brent Budowsky
January 23, 2009
January 23, 2009
In the most important single move for Middle East peace in this decade, President Barack Obama and Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton are sending former Senate Majority Leader George Mitchell as special envoy for Middle East diplomacy.
Thursday, January 22, 2009
Obama Frees Bush Historical Records
By Robert Parry
January 22, 2009
When authoritarian forces seize control of a government, they typically move first against the public’s access to information, under the theory that a confused populace can be more easily manipulated. They take aim at the radio stations, TV and newspapers.
Read on.
January 22, 2009
When authoritarian forces seize control of a government, they typically move first against the public’s access to information, under the theory that a confused populace can be more easily manipulated. They take aim at the radio stations, TV and newspapers.
Read on.
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Jimmy Carter's Wise Counsel
By Ivan Eland
January 21, 2009
At the request of President-elect Barack Obama, President George W. Bush convened an awkward meeting of all living former presidents at the White House to meet, and presumably give advice and encouragement to, the new guy.
Read on.
January 21, 2009
At the request of President-elect Barack Obama, President George W. Bush convened an awkward meeting of all living former presidents at the White House to meet, and presumably give advice and encouragement to, the new guy.
Read on.
Monday, January 19, 2009
Historical Mystery of Bush's Presidency
By Robert Parry
January 20, 2009
After little more than two years of the Watergate scandal, Richard Nixon resigned and his successor, Gerald Ford, famously declared, “our long national nightmare is over.” But the painful end game of Nixon’s presidency was nothing compared to the eight excruciating years of George W. Bush.
Read on.
January 20, 2009
After little more than two years of the Watergate scandal, Richard Nixon resigned and his successor, Gerald Ford, famously declared, “our long national nightmare is over.” But the painful end game of Nixon’s presidency was nothing compared to the eight excruciating years of George W. Bush.
Read on.
Dangerous Words: 'War on Terror'
By Christiane Brown
January 19, 2009
January 19, 2009
One phrase can divide an entire country, one phrase can circumvent 800 years of law, one phrase can justify the horrific, condone the illegal, and bankrupt a nation, both financially and morally. One phrase can kill.
Sunday, January 18, 2009
Bush Sets New Standards for Failure
By Brent Budowsky
January 18, 2009
At least Richard Nixon negotiated with Russia, opened doors to China and created the Environmental Protection Agency. What did George Bush achieve?
Read on.
January 18, 2009
At least Richard Nixon negotiated with Russia, opened doors to China and created the Environmental Protection Agency. What did George Bush achieve?
Read on.
Saturday, January 17, 2009
George W. Bush's 'Swearing-Out'
By Michael Winship
January 17, 2009
As Barack Obama prepares to be sworn in, I recall an old National Lampoon record album – record albums, remember those? – from the final weeks of the Watergate scandal that comically suggested that President Richard Nixon be given a “swearing OUT” ceremony. There followed a series of blistering curses and calumnies directed at the soon-to-be departed and disgraced chief executive, delivered by someone impersonating the Reverend Billy Graham.
Read on.
January 17, 2009
As Barack Obama prepares to be sworn in, I recall an old National Lampoon record album – record albums, remember those? – from the final weeks of the Watergate scandal that comically suggested that President Richard Nixon be given a “swearing OUT” ceremony. There followed a series of blistering curses and calumnies directed at the soon-to-be departed and disgraced chief executive, delivered by someone impersonating the Reverend Billy Graham.
Read on.
Is Israel's Gaza War a New War Crime?
By Dennis Bernstein
January 17, 2009
The use of the internationally banned substance white phosphorus in highly densely populated areas of the Gaza Strip gives new meaning to the phrase "white power." White western supremacy enforced by latest advanced weaponry.
Read on.
January 17, 2009
The use of the internationally banned substance white phosphorus in highly densely populated areas of the Gaza Strip gives new meaning to the phrase "white power." White western supremacy enforced by latest advanced weaponry.
Read on.
Bush's Only Gift to America
By Robert Parry
January 17, 2009
George W. Bush’s gift to the American Republic may be that he has discredited a host of right-wing theories and practices – “trickle-down economics”; “self-regulating markets”; “tough-guy” foreign policy; the “imperial presidency”; and the notion that “government is the problem.”
Read on.
January 17, 2009
George W. Bush’s gift to the American Republic may be that he has discredited a host of right-wing theories and practices – “trickle-down economics”; “self-regulating markets”; “tough-guy” foreign policy; the “imperial presidency”; and the notion that “government is the problem.”
Read on.
Thursday, January 15, 2009
What's CIA Director Hayden Hidin'?
By Ray McGovern
January 15, 2009
Outgoing CIA Director Michael Hayden is going around town telling folks he has warned President-elect Barack Obama “personally and forcefully” that if Obama authorizes an investigation into controversial activities like waterboarding, “no one in Langley will ever take a risk again.”
Read on.
January 15, 2009
Outgoing CIA Director Michael Hayden is going around town telling folks he has warned President-elect Barack Obama “personally and forcefully” that if Obama authorizes an investigation into controversial activities like waterboarding, “no one in Langley will ever take a risk again.”
Read on.
Bush's Deficit May Doom America
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Bush/Cheney: 'Most Impeachable'
By Jason Leopold
January 14, 2009
House Judiciary Committee Chairman John Conyers says President George W. Bush and Vice President Dick Cheney committed impeachment-worthy offenses which must be thoroughly investigated even after the two men leave office as a means of reaffirming U.S. constitutional principles.
Read on.
January 14, 2009
House Judiciary Committee Chairman John Conyers says President George W. Bush and Vice President Dick Cheney committed impeachment-worthy offenses which must be thoroughly investigated even after the two men leave office as a means of reaffirming U.S. constitutional principles.
Read on.
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
An Empire That America Can't Afford
By Ivan Eland
January 13, 2009
Somebody is going to have to whisper in President-elect Obama’s ear that the unipolar moment has passed and that the United States can no longer afford its informal worldwide empire.
Read on.
January 13, 2009
Somebody is going to have to whisper in President-elect Obama’s ear that the unipolar moment has passed and that the United States can no longer afford its informal worldwide empire.
Read on.
Monday, January 12, 2009
Gaza and the End of Days
By Morgan Strong
January 12, 2009
They have buried many children in Gaza the past two weeks. One, a little girl, was buried a week ago last Tuesday. She was only four. She was a beautiful child, long dark hair and a sweetly innocent face, far too early for such promise as she to die.
Read on.
January 12, 2009
They have buried many children in Gaza the past two weeks. One, a little girl, was buried a week ago last Tuesday. She was only four. She was a beautiful child, long dark hair and a sweetly innocent face, far too early for such promise as she to die.
Read on.
Obama Waffles on Torture Prosecution
By Jason Leopold
January 12, 2009
If you’re one of the thousands of Americans who have gone to Barack Obama’s change.gov Web site demanding that the President-elect hold Bush administration officials accountable for torture and other law violations, you’re likely to be disappointed.
Read on.
January 12, 2009
If you’re one of the thousands of Americans who have gone to Barack Obama’s change.gov Web site demanding that the President-elect hold Bush administration officials accountable for torture and other law violations, you’re likely to be disappointed.
Read on.
Saturday, January 10, 2009
WPost Again Flacks for Bush's Crimes
By Robert Parry
January 10, 2009
With only 10 days left before George W. Bush leaves office, the Washington Establishment – and its chief mouthpiece the Washington Post – are trying to stymie any meaningful accountability for the outgoing administration and thus cover up for their own complicity in Bush’s crimes and incompetence.
Read on.
January 10, 2009
With only 10 days left before George W. Bush leaves office, the Washington Establishment – and its chief mouthpiece the Washington Post – are trying to stymie any meaningful accountability for the outgoing administration and thus cover up for their own complicity in Bush’s crimes and incompetence.
Read on.
What Am I Bid for the American Wild?
By Michael Winship
January 10, 2009
We've all seen those sitcoms or movies in which someone stumbles into an art auction and, not knowing how it works, idly scratches his nose or pulls his ear and finds himself the owner of a Rembrandt.
Read on.
January 10, 2009
We've all seen those sitcoms or movies in which someone stumbles into an art auction and, not knowing how it works, idly scratches his nose or pulls his ear and finds himself the owner of a Rembrandt.
Read on.
Friday, January 09, 2009
How the CIA Handles the WPost
By Melvin A. Goodman
January 9, 2009
On Jan. 7, the Washington Post published a front-page lead article and an op-ed on the nomination of Leon Panetta as CIA director; both articles exaggerated the extent of opposition to the Panetta appointment and they demonstrated the weakness of mainstream media coverage of the intelligence community, particularly the Central Intelligence Agency.
Read on.
January 9, 2009
On Jan. 7, the Washington Post published a front-page lead article and an op-ed on the nomination of Leon Panetta as CIA director; both articles exaggerated the extent of opposition to the Panetta appointment and they demonstrated the weakness of mainstream media coverage of the intelligence community, particularly the Central Intelligence Agency.
Read on.
Thursday, January 08, 2009
WPost Finds Second Side to Gaza War
By Robert Parry
January 8, 2009
Twelve days into Israel’s punishing war on Gaza, the Washington Post editorial section finally has published an op-ed suggesting that there might be two sides to the dispute, an article by former President Jimmy Carter who presented both Israeli and Palestinian concerns and noted Israel’s failure to live up to the goals of last year’s truce agreement.
Read on.
January 8, 2009
Twelve days into Israel’s punishing war on Gaza, the Washington Post editorial section finally has published an op-ed suggesting that there might be two sides to the dispute, an article by former President Jimmy Carter who presented both Israeli and Palestinian concerns and noted Israel’s failure to live up to the goals of last year’s truce agreement.
Read on.
Wednesday, January 07, 2009
Conyers Seeks Probe of Bush Crimes
By Jason Leopold
January 7, 2009
In one of the first acts of the 111th Congress, House Judiciary Committee Chairman John Conyers proposed legislation to create a blue-ribbon panel of outside experts to probe the “broad range” of policies pursued by the Bush administration “under claims of unreviewable war powers,” including torture of detainees and warrantless wiretaps.
Read on.
January 7, 2009
In one of the first acts of the 111th Congress, House Judiciary Committee Chairman John Conyers proposed legislation to create a blue-ribbon panel of outside experts to probe the “broad range” of policies pursued by the Bush administration “under claims of unreviewable war powers,” including torture of detainees and warrantless wiretaps.
Read on.
Tuesday, January 06, 2009
Bush Spins Scandalous Neglect of Vets
By Jason Leopold
January 6, 2009
January 6, 2009
It’s not uncommon for Presidents to embellish their accomplishments upon leaving office, but George W. Bush, who will exit the White House leaving the country in the worst shape since Herbert Hoover, has gone a step further, moving past exaggeration into outright lying.
Sunday, January 04, 2009
WPost Columnist Excuses Torture
By David Swanson
January 4, 2009
According to Albert Camus, "It is the job of thinking people not to be on the side of the executioners." But Washington Post editorial writer Ruth Marcus has joined the side of the executioners and provided a clear example of how that is respectably done in our time and place.
Read on.
January 4, 2009
According to Albert Camus, "It is the job of thinking people not to be on the side of the executioners." But Washington Post editorial writer Ruth Marcus has joined the side of the executioners and provided a clear example of how that is respectably done in our time and place.
Read on.
Israel's Looming Catastrophe
By Robert Parry
January 4, 2009
January 4, 2009
For the past three decades, Israel has charted a course that invites its own destruction by relying on two risky propositions: first, that it could extend its security perimeter beyond the reach of a devastating missile attack, and second, that it could permanently control the political debate inside its crucial ally, the United States.
Read on.Friday, January 02, 2009
Making 'Duck Soup' Out of Today
By Bill Moyers and Michael Winship
January 2, 2009
As 2008 ends and this New Year begins, with all its fledgling promise despite turmoil and crisis, it’s also that time when the media offers its lists of ten best or worst this and that of the previous year, an exercise that simultaneously entertains and infuriates.
Read on.
January 2, 2009
As 2008 ends and this New Year begins, with all its fledgling promise despite turmoil and crisis, it’s also that time when the media offers its lists of ten best or worst this and that of the previous year, an exercise that simultaneously entertains and infuriates.
Read on.
Pity the Poor Neocons
By Robert Parry
January 2, 2009
As bloody and grotesque as Israel’s pounding of Gaza has been, it marks a bitterly disappointing end for seven-plus years of neoconservative dominion over U.S. foreign policy, a period that was supposed to conclude with the dismantling of Israel’s Muslim enemies in the region.
Read on.
January 2, 2009
As bloody and grotesque as Israel’s pounding of Gaza has been, it marks a bitterly disappointing end for seven-plus years of neoconservative dominion over U.S. foreign policy, a period that was supposed to conclude with the dismantling of Israel’s Muslim enemies in the region.
Read on.
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Torture & the Crime of Aggressive War
By Peter Dyer
December 31, 2008
December 31, 2008
The U.S. government’s torture of detainees in the “war on terror” can be traced directly to a Feb. 7, 2002, memo signed by President George W. Bush.
GOP Judge Gives Bush a Gitmo Victory
By Robert Parry
December 31, 2008
Civil libertarians hailed last June’s U.S. Supreme Court ruling requiring habeas corpus hearings to justify indefinite detentions at Guantanamo Bay, but there remained the question of which federal judges would hear the evidence. It was clear that many would be right-wing Republican appointees.
Read on.
December 31, 2008
Civil libertarians hailed last June’s U.S. Supreme Court ruling requiring habeas corpus hearings to justify indefinite detentions at Guantanamo Bay, but there remained the question of which federal judges would hear the evidence. It was clear that many would be right-wing Republican appointees.
Read on.
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
How Hypocrisy on 'Terrorism' Kills
By Robert Parry
December 30, 2008
Israel, a nation that was born out of Zionist terrorism, has launched massive airstrikes against targets in Gaza using high-tech weapons produced by the United States, a country that often has aided and abetted terrorism by its client military forces, such as Chile’s Operation Condor and the Nicaraguan contras, and even today harbors right-wing Cuban terrorists implicated in blowing up a civilian airliner.
Read on.
December 30, 2008
Israel, a nation that was born out of Zionist terrorism, has launched massive airstrikes against targets in Gaza using high-tech weapons produced by the United States, a country that often has aided and abetted terrorism by its client military forces, such as Chile’s Operation Condor and the Nicaraguan contras, and even today harbors right-wing Cuban terrorists implicated in blowing up a civilian airliner.
Read on.
Sunday, December 28, 2008
Henry Kissinger: Eminence Noire
By Robert Parry
December 28, 2008
The recent release of 40-year-old tape recordings of President Lyndon Johnson complaining about “treason” by Richard Nixon’s campaign for sabotaging Vietnam peace talks in 1968 also reflects darkly on one of Washington’s enduring Wise Men, a person whose views are still sought and respected: former Secretary of State Henry Kissinger.
Read on.
December 28, 2008
The recent release of 40-year-old tape recordings of President Lyndon Johnson complaining about “treason” by Richard Nixon’s campaign for sabotaging Vietnam peace talks in 1968 also reflects darkly on one of Washington’s enduring Wise Men, a person whose views are still sought and respected: former Secretary of State Henry Kissinger.
Read on.
Saturday, December 27, 2008
The Dilemma That Is Gaza
By Morgan Strong
December 27, 2008 (Republished in view of new Israeli bombing raids)
Gaza was and is an anomaly, a piece of land left over from the calamity of history, created it seems in a moment of distraction.
Read on.
December 27, 2008 (Republished in view of new Israeli bombing raids)
Gaza was and is an anomaly, a piece of land left over from the calamity of history, created it seems in a moment of distraction.
Read on.
Friday, December 26, 2008
Two Dangerous Bush-Cheney Myths
By Robert Parry
December 26, 2008
As George W. Bush and Dick Cheney make their case for some positive legacy from the past eight years, two arguments are playing key roles: the notion that torturing terror suspects saved American lives and the belief that Bush’s Iraq troop “surge” transformed a disaster into something close to “victory.”
Read on.
December 26, 2008
As George W. Bush and Dick Cheney make their case for some positive legacy from the past eight years, two arguments are playing key roles: the notion that torturing terror suspects saved American lives and the belief that Bush’s Iraq troop “surge” transformed a disaster into something close to “victory.”
Read on.
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
Washington Needs a Makeover
By Robert Parry
December 24, 2008
In four weeks, the long national nightmare of George W. Bush’s presidency will come to an end, but the big question then will be whether much will change – even with a solid Democratic majority in Congress and the nation’s first African-American President in the White House.
Read on.
December 24, 2008
In four weeks, the long national nightmare of George W. Bush’s presidency will come to an end, but the big question then will be whether much will change – even with a solid Democratic majority in Congress and the nation’s first African-American President in the White House.
Read on.
'Gran Torino': Clint Eastwood in Winter
By Lisa Pease
December 24, 2008
Clint Eastwood stars in and directs this amazing film. Fresh and original, hilarious and heart-rending, this film will seize a hold of your heart and not let go. And if you enjoy snappy dialog, consider "Gran Torino" this year's "Juno."
Read on.
December 24, 2008
Clint Eastwood stars in and directs this amazing film. Fresh and original, hilarious and heart-rending, this film will seize a hold of your heart and not let go. And if you enjoy snappy dialog, consider "Gran Torino" this year's "Juno."
Read on.
'Australia' Makes Worthy Apology
By Lisa Pease
December 22, 2008
December 22, 2008
Baz Luhrmann, the creative force behind "Moulin Rouge" and "Strictly Ballroom," has written and directed an epic valentine to 1940s-style films with his latest effort, "Australia."
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
Democrats Need Their Own Cheney
By Brent Budowsky
December 23, 2008
Dick Cheney is what Margaret Thatcher called a conviction politician. Yes, with some luck, that may become a play on words, since I believe torture and warrantless eavesdropping violate the law – and the Vice President has proudly announced his role in those decisions by the Bush administration.
Read on.
December 23, 2008
Dick Cheney is what Margaret Thatcher called a conviction politician. Yes, with some luck, that may become a play on words, since I believe torture and warrantless eavesdropping violate the law – and the Vice President has proudly announced his role in those decisions by the Bush administration.
Read on.
Cheney Defends Waterboarding Order
By Jason Leopold
December 23, 2008
Vice President Dick Cheney, in another stunning admission during his campaign to burnish the Bush administration’s legacy, said he personally authorized the “enhanced interrogations” of 33 suspected terrorist detainees and approved the waterboarding of three so-called “high-value” prisoners.
Read on.
December 23, 2008
Vice President Dick Cheney, in another stunning admission during his campaign to burnish the Bush administration’s legacy, said he personally authorized the “enhanced interrogations” of 33 suspected terrorist detainees and approved the waterboarding of three so-called “high-value” prisoners.
Read on.
Monday, December 22, 2008
Cheney's Contempt for the Republic
By Robert Parry
December 22, 2008
As Vice President Dick Cheney goes public in exit interviews about his vision of expansive executive powers, it's getting clearer how close the American Republic came to suffering major deformity – if not destruction – in the past eight years.
Read on.
December 22, 2008
As Vice President Dick Cheney goes public in exit interviews about his vision of expansive executive powers, it's getting clearer how close the American Republic came to suffering major deformity – if not destruction – in the past eight years.
Read on.
Saturday, December 20, 2008
Obama Triangulates His 'Base'
By Brent Budowsky
December 20, 2008
Many of the cable-television Democrats are smirking, chortling and smiling as they say how clever it was for Barack Obama to name Rick Warren to give the Inaugural invocation.
Read on.
December 20, 2008
Many of the cable-television Democrats are smirking, chortling and smiling as they say how clever it was for Barack Obama to name Rick Warren to give the Inaugural invocation.
Read on.
Bush's Blind Eye to Afghan Corruption
By Michael Winship
December 20, 2008
Just when you’ve finally gotten your mind around the enormous $700 billion financial bailout – even if none of us are really sure where all that money’s going – there comes an even greater, breathtaking price tag.
Read on.
December 20, 2008
Just when you’ve finally gotten your mind around the enormous $700 billion financial bailout – even if none of us are really sure where all that money’s going – there comes an even greater, breathtaking price tag.
Read on.
Friday, December 19, 2008
Deterring Torture Through the Law
By Coleen Rowley and Ray McGovern
December 19, 2008
“First, let’s kill all the lawyers” may have made sense in that Shakespearian scene, but there is a far simpler solution to the legal ambiguities regarding what to do now about the torture approved by the administration of George W. Bush. Perhaps this variant: First, let’s have the lawyers review their notes from Criminal Justice 101.
Read on.
December 19, 2008
“First, let’s kill all the lawyers” may have made sense in that Shakespearian scene, but there is a far simpler solution to the legal ambiguities regarding what to do now about the torture approved by the administration of George W. Bush. Perhaps this variant: First, let’s have the lawyers review their notes from Criminal Justice 101.
Read on.
CIA Warned Condi on Niger Claim
By Jason Leopold
December 19, 2008
December 19, 2008
A high-ranking CIA official warned Condoleezza Rice in September 2002 that allegations about Iraq seeking yellowcake uranium from Niger were untrue and that she, as national security adviser, should stop President George W. Bush from citing the claim in making his case against Saddam Hussein’s regime, according to new evidence released by a House committee.
Read on.
Thursday, December 18, 2008
Obama v. Washington Mythmaking
By Robert Parry
December 18, 2008
December 18, 2008
Over the years, Washington has evolved into a city of deceptions where semantics cloud reality and where a hazy mix of lies, half-truths and mythology can combine to unleash the devastating military might of the United States for no good reason.
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
Cheney Admits Detainee-Abuse Role
By Jason Leopold
December 16, 2008
Vice President Dick Cheney said for the first time Monday that he helped get the “process cleared” for the brutal interrogation program of suspected terrorists.
Read on.
December 16, 2008
Vice President Dick Cheney said for the first time Monday that he helped get the “process cleared” for the brutal interrogation program of suspected terrorists.
Read on.
Monday, December 15, 2008
Bush's Misguided Offensive Strategies
By Ivan Eland
December 16, 2008
General David Petraeus, the former military commander of U.S. forces in Iraq and author of the military’s most recent counterinsurgency manual, learned the lessons of the successful British counterinsurgency experience in Malaya in the 1950s.
Read on.
December 16, 2008
General David Petraeus, the former military commander of U.S. forces in Iraq and author of the military’s most recent counterinsurgency manual, learned the lessons of the successful British counterinsurgency experience in Malaya in the 1950s.
Read on.
The Dilemma That Is Gaza
By Morgan Strong
December 15, 2008
Gaza was and is an anomaly, a piece of land left over from the calamity of history, created it seems in a moment of distraction.
Read on.
December 15, 2008
Gaza was and is an anomaly, a piece of land left over from the calamity of history, created it seems in a moment of distraction.
Read on.
Sunday, December 14, 2008
Obama and US-Russia Tensions
By Consortiumnews.com
December 14, 2008
With U.S.-Russian relations already at their lowest point since the end of the Cold War, President-elect Barack Obama has picked two key foreign policy officials who are likely to continue the Bush administration’s confrontational policies that have aggravated Russia and disrupted European security alignments and transatlantic relations.
Read on.
December 14, 2008
With U.S.-Russian relations already at their lowest point since the end of the Cold War, President-elect Barack Obama has picked two key foreign policy officials who are likely to continue the Bush administration’s confrontational policies that have aggravated Russia and disrupted European security alignments and transatlantic relations.
Read on.
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