Medicare for All is the solution

Written by: LaForest Sherman on Jul 4, 2009 10:32 PM EDT

Linked to groups: DFA Night School, DFIA

Declared an international human right in 1948; enacted in a majority of nations; Universal Health Care is held hostage in the United States by greed and a lack of courage.  Recent polls show public support at 59% and support of a majority of doctors (also 59%) and other health care providers, who support universal health care paid for by federal tax dollars.  When will Congress and the Senate begin to listen to the will of the people?

The debate becomes more twisted and surreal by the day.  The proposed ‘public option’ will not solve the problem of cost or access.  No other country provides basic health care on a for-profit basis.  400 billion dollars per year would be gained, if the for-profit health insurance companies were by-passed.  Adding a non-profit public option along side the current health insurance plans is no more sustainable than the current system.

Neither party, Democrat nor Republican, currently has the courage to speak the truth and do the right thing.  The party that does will be rewarded in coming elections.  This is not a partisan issue.  It is about the survival of the American way of life, liberty and happiness.  

Currently Medicare, Medicaid and various public programs paid by the States pay for 40% of health care costs.  Covering the uninsured is quoted at $160 billion dollars per year.  The transfer of costs from individuals and companies to a tax supported system would yield an overall saving of the $240 billion per year.  More than enough to correct the distortions in the current systems of underfunded primary care physicians, hospitals and preventative care.

Additional savings would be realized in the 62% of bankruptcies and foreclosures that wouldn’t happen because of catastrophic health events.  Enhancements to life, liberty and happiness of universal health care would be very real to thousands of families each year.

There would also be the economic benefit to the economy of making US business and industry competitive again in the world market.

U.S. Becoming More Partisan Despite Attempts at Bipartisanship

Written by: Patrick Stansberry on Mar 2, 2009 8:29 PM EST

Linked to groups: DFA Blog Network, DFA Night School, DFA Campaign Academy Alumni, DFIA

New Rasmussen polls show the United States is becoming more and more partisan.

From Open Left...

With roughly 200,000 interviews a year, and with interviews conducted every single non-holiday, Rasmussen's yearly party identification totals are the best resource for partisan trends over the past five years. Here are there yearly totals:

Non-partisan self-identification, by year, from Rasmussen Reports

Year	Dem	Non	Rep
2009	40.9	26.1	33.1
2008	40.5	27.0	32.5
2007	36.9	31.0	32.1
2006	37.0	30.3	32.8
2005	36.9	28.1	35.0
2004	38.0	26.5	35.6

The data shows two unmistakable trends, which I discuss in the extended entry.
First, from 2005 to 2007, while the number of Democrats remained constant, the ranks of non-partisan identifiers swelled by 2.9, and the ranks of Republicans were depleted 2.9. During this time, the country was becoming less partisan and less Republican, but not less Democratic.

Second, in 2008, the country reverted back to partisan levels of 2004 and 2005. The number of non-partisan identifiers dropped 4.0, with 90% of the new partisan identifiers turning Democratic. So, the country became more partisan, more Democratic, and the number of Republicans remained constant.

Combine these two trends, and the results is that, since the start of 2005, the country is more Democratic, less Republican, and just as partisan as it ever was. So, what we have is not a post-, bi-, or non-partisan trend, but instead a decidedly Democratic trend. This is based on a poll, conducted daily for the past five years, and with a sample size of less than 0.2% (zero point two percent). Effectively, there is no way to argue against the trendlines shown in this data.

With the number of independents/no party declining in recent years, it's just another reason not to give into the so-called centrists.

It's time for bold policies and a clear vision for our future. If our elected officials lead, citizen activists put on the pressure, people will get on board.

Originally posted at Century of the Common Iowan.

Des Moines Urban DMACC - DFA Academy Training Welcome

Written by: Christina Butts on Mar 1, 2009 8:36 PM EST

Linked to groups: DFA Campaign Academy Alumni, DFA Night School, DFIA, Des Moines DFA

Linked to campaigns: Obama for America

Here's the beginning welcome for the Attendees by the National Academy Organizer Matt Blizek and afterwards Eecutive Director Jim Dean!!

(please excuse the jerky video it was a handheld FLiPcorder)

direct Youtube link  [  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xbZnyjbXsM4 ]

Next is a very welcome and gracious encouragement speech by our great US Senator Tom Harkin

direct Youtube link  [ http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z-4QIvmRfh0  ]

A message from a four-legged friend.

Written by: Commissioner Richard Renner on Jan 20, 2009 7:28 PM EST

Linked to groups: Democracy for Montgomery County, Jericho/Underhill Linkup, DEMOCRACY for Baltimore, Prince George's - Democracy for America, South Valley Democracy For America

Mitzy is a two year old Brittany Spaniel/Chocolate Lab mix.  She is a wonderful dog who loves to play, especially fetch, and loves to go for rides in the car.  She knows how to sit, shake and heel. 

Mitzy's family loved her very much.  They had her spayed, as all responsible pet-owners should, and took her to the Vet for the least little problem.  Mitzy was a member of the family, and when a member of your family is sick, you take them to the doctor.

However, about six months ago, the father of Mitzy's family lost his job.  The result was so financially devastating that they could no longer afford to care for Mitzy and were forced to surrender her to the Missaukee Humane Society.

Given the exponential descent of our economy, Mitzy's story has become all too common.  But, there is something you can do to help.  Missaukee Humane Society (MHS) is a small shelter in rural northern Michigan, dependent on contributions to continue their mission of mercy.  They are one of the only no-kill animal shelters left in Michigan, and are currently running on a deficit, at full capacity.  Many mornings, the staff arrives to find abandoned pets, left overnight by owners who can no longer afford to feed or care for them.

Right now, MHS is attempting to win a $10,000 prize from Adopt-a-Pet.com.  Please, can you spare 30 seconds of your time to vote for MHS, by clicking on...

http://www.care2.com/animalsheltercontest/70962/?refer=26290.12.1229816824.4762

$10,000 could save literally hundreds of abandoned pets - Pets that give us nothing but unconditional love in exchange for an occasional pat on the head, a squeaky toy to play with, and a couple of bowls filled with food and fresh water.

Because MHS is in a rural, sparsely populated area, they need as many votes as possible from all across the state, and all across the country.  Please vote now at...

http://www.care2.com/animalsheltercontest/70962/?refer=26290.12.1229816824.4762

Time is running out, so please don't wait.  The contest ends January 31, 2009, at 11:59pm.  After you vote, you will have an opportunity to forward information about the contest to as many people as possible so that they can join you in this worthy cause.  Vote, spread the word, be a voice for the voiceless...

http://www.care2.com/animalsheltercontest/70962/?refer=26290.12.1229816824.4762

I thank you, and Mitzy thanks you.

The one absolute, unselfish friend that man can have in this selfish world—the one that never deserts him, the one that never proves ungrateful or treacherous—is his dog…

 - George Graham Vest, American lawyer and politician, 1830-1904

Can you spare 30 seconds of your time to help save abandoned pets?

Written by: Commissioner Richard Renner on Jan 4, 2009 10:30 PM EST

Linked to groups: DFA Boston, Progressive Democrats of West Michigan, Democracy for Florida, Democracy for Montana, 49th Ward DFA

As our economic crisis continues to worsen, some of the most vulnerable among us can not speak for themselves - Unwanted and abandoned pets.  Missaukee Humane Society (MHS) is a small shelter in rural Northern Michigan, dependent on contributions to continue their mission of mercy.  MHS is one of the only no-kill animal shelters left in Michigan.  They are currently running on a deficit, and at full capacity.  Many mornings, the staff arrives to find abandoned pets, left overnight by owners who can no longer afford to feed or care for them.

Right now, MHS is attempting to win a $10,000 prize from Adopt-a-Pet.com.  Please, can you spare 30 seconds of your time to vote for MHS, by clicking on...

http://www.care2.com/animalsheltercontest/70962/?refer=26290.12.1229816824.4762

$10,000 could save literally hundreds of abandoned pets - Pets that give us nothing but unconditional love in exchange for an occasional pat on the head, game of fetch, and a couple of bowls filled with food and fresh water.

Because MHS is in a rural, sparsely populated area, they need as many votes as possible from all across the state, and all across the country.  Please vote now at...

http://www.care2.com/animalsheltercontest/70962/?refer=26290.12.1229816824.4762

The one absolute, unselfish friend that man can have in this selfish world—the one that never deserts him, the one that never proves ungrateful or treacherous—is his dog…a man’s dog stands by him in prosperity and in poverty, in health and in sickness. He will sleep on the cold ground, where the wintry winds blow and the snow drives fiercely, if only he can be near his master’s side. He will kiss the hand that had no food to offer, he will lick the wounds and sores that come in encounter with the roughness of the world. He guards the sleep of his pauper master as if he were a prince. When all other friends desert, he remains. When riches take wings and reputation falls to pieces he is as constant in his love as the sun in its journey through the heavens. If fortune drives the master forth an outcast in the world, friendless and homeless, the faithful dog asks no higher privilege than that of accompanying him to guard against danger, to fight against his enemies. And when the last scene of all comes, and death takes the master in its embrace, and his body is laid away in the cold ground, no matter if all other friends pursue their way, there by his graveside will the noble dog be found, his head between his paws, his eyes sad but open in alert watchfulness, faithful and true even to death.

 - George Graham Vest, American lawyer and politician, 1830-1904

Happy Thanksgiving from Missaukee County (Michigan) :)

Written by: Commissioner Richard Renner on Nov 26, 2008 7:30 PM EST

Linked to groups: "FreePress.org" OhioHonestElections, Change For Louisville, Netroots Activism!, Ocean County DFA/PDA, DfA-Bellingham

To all my friends at Democracy for America,

May your Thanksgiving be filled with Love, Faith and Laughter.

Best wishes,

Richard Renner

Missaukee County Commissioner-elect

Membership Chair, Missaukee County Democratic Party

“Strange is our situation here upon earth.  Each of us comes for a short visit, not knowing why, yet sometimes seeming to a divine purpose.  From the standpoint of daily life, however, there is one thing we do know:  That we are here for the sake of others...for the countless unknown souls with whose fate we are connected by a bond of sympathy.  Many times a day, I realize how much my outer and inner life is built upon the labors of people, both living and dead, and how earnestly I must exert myself in order to give in return as much as I have received.”

 - Albert Einstein

"...let's not forget all the hard-working, progressive Democrats who are running for local offices..." - Democrats.com

Written by: Commissioner Richard Renner on Nov 17, 2008 9:41 PM EST

Linked to groups: Clean Money Virginia, DFA Central Ohio, Democracy for the 14th District, Democracy for America - Rhode Island, Central Florida for Democracy

"...let's not forget all the hard-working, progressive Democrats who are running for local offices...Local and state offices have an enormous impact on our lives, and also produce our future national leaders..." - Democrats.com

CHALLENGE: ONLY 3 DAYS LEFT to raise $380! Help the only Democratic County Commissioner in Missaukee County (Michigan).

On Tuesday, November 4th, history was made in Missaukee County. I was fortunate enough to defeat a Republican incumbent for County Commissioner in the second most Republican county in the state of Michigan. However, as with many campaigns, I have debt to pay off, and several final expenses to pay. I need to raise $380 in 3 days. Can I count on you? Making a contribution is easier than ever. Just click on the link below, and make a secure, online contribution using PayPal...

https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_donations&business=rrenner%40core%2ecom&item_name=Friends%20of%20Richard%20Renner&no_shipping=0&no_note=1&tax=0¤cy_code=USD&lc=US&bn=PP%2dDonationsBF&charset=UTF%2d8

OFFICIALLY ENDORSED BY MID-MICHIGAN DEMOCRACY FOR AMERICA (MMDfA)!

“Richard REALLY knows his stuff and has specific plans for improving his county.”

As I was quoted in our local daily, the Cadillac News, following my victory...

"The voters...have made a determination that the status quo is no longer acceptable, that we expect more accountability, greater openness, and transparency in county government."

Please, help me pay off my debt by raising $380 in 3 days. Just click on the link below, and make a secure, online contribution using PayPal...

https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_donations&business=rrenner%40core%2ecom&item_name=Friends%20of%20Richard%20Renner&no_shipping=0&no_note=1&tax=0¤cy_code=USD&lc=US&bn=PP%2dDonationsBF&charset=UTF%2d8

Victory '10,

Richard Renner

Missaukee County Commissioner-elect

"...public service must be more than doing a job efficiently and honestly. It must be a complete dedication to the people...with full recognition that every human being is entitled to courtesy and consideration."

- Margaret Chase Smith, U.S. Senator from Maine, 1949-1973

Please Help Congressional Candidate Rob Hubler

Written by: Clifford Day on Aug 20, 2008 8:05 PM EDT

Linked to groups: DFIA

Hello Friends,

Here's an opportunity to help Rob Hubler is his campaign to defeat notorious right wing Iowa 5th District Congressman Steve King.

Please use this link to cast your vote for Rob at Senator Russ Feingold's Progressive Patriot site. The candidate who receives the most votes will receive a $5,000 contribution from the Progressive Patriots Fund.

http://www.progressivepatriotsfund.com/pickapatriot/vote-house-v.html

VR
Cliff Day

Read more

Oil Crisis: Oil Industry's method of raising prices and cutting their own taxes

Written by: James Dunn on Jul 8, 2008 11:15 AM EDT

Linked to groups: GenDFA UIUC, Mason County, KY, Rohnert Park for Democracy, Lane Democracy For America, The Pomona-Claremont Democracy for America

Regarding opening environmentally protected areas for mining and pumping oil:

There is over 200 years of oil in the 48 contiguous States that are capped up by oil companies to monopolize world energy. There is no need to violate our environmentally protected areas, just to allow oil companies to further monopolize their strangle hold over our lives.

They are creating a media frenzy just to increase the price of oil; very successfully I might add. However, there is no immediate threat for an oil shortage !!! The oil companies have ONLY created the perception that there is a shortage !!!!

I personally believe that ALL mineral rights belong to the American People, NOT souless corporations!!!

I applaud Venezuela for nationalizing the oil assets in their country!!!!

We should be doing the same thing here in the United States !!!!

Ethically Eliminate ALL Political Corruption

http://blog.360.yahoo.com/jamesbdunn?p=57

Introducing Rob Hubler

Written by: Clifford Day on Jul 6, 2008 2:21 AM EDT

Linked to groups: DFIA

Friends,

The following video links will introduce you to Rob Hubler, our Democratic Party candidate for Congress in the Fifth District of Iowa.

Rob is currently running a very energetic campaign to retire the notorious incumbent Steve King and his extreme right wing agenda.  Rob will bring progressive and compassionate representation to the people of the Fifth District.

I hope you will join me in providing some monetary support to Rob's campaign:
http://www.hublercongress.com/contribute.htm
 
Regards,
Cliff Day

Rob's speech at the Iowa Democratic Party state convention: 
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X_rU1G9beuw

Rob's fireside chat at STAR*PAC:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jQjUW0ZJs0Q&feature=related