Bullying and Arrogance
October 22, 2004
#11 - The Final Countdown: Bullying and Arrogance
No time to read through 500+ reasons before election day? Here are the highlights from Bullying and Arrogance: June 2003: The Bush administration refuses to send to the U.S. Senate for ratification the treaty that created the International Criminal Court – a body which uses international law to try individuals . . . [more]
No time to read through 500+ reasons before election day? Here are the highlights from Bullying and Arrogance: June 2003: The Bush administration refuses to send to the U.S. Senate for ratification the treaty that created the International Criminal Court – a body which uses international law to try individuals . . . [more]
October 09, 2004
#24 - Friday's Debate, Part I - He Can't Correct What He Won't Acknowledge
From Friday's debate: GRABEL: President Bush, during the last four years, you have made thousands of decisions that have affected millions of lives. Please give three instances in which you came to realize you had made a wrong decision, and what you did to correct it. Thank you. BUSH: I . . . [more]
From Friday's debate: GRABEL: President Bush, during the last four years, you have made thousands of decisions that have affected millions of lives. Please give three instances in which you came to realize you had made a wrong decision, and what you did to correct it. Thank you. BUSH: I . . . [more]
October 04, 2004
#29 - Denying Protection to Conscientious Civil Servants
From yesterday's New York Times, "Congress Moves to Protect Federal Whistleblowers": Over strenuous objections from the Bush administration, Congress is moving to increase protections for federal employees who expose fraud, waste and wrongdoing inside the government. Lawmakers of both parties say the measures are needed to prevent retaliation against such . . . [more]
From yesterday's New York Times, "Congress Moves to Protect Federal Whistleblowers": Over strenuous objections from the Bush administration, Congress is moving to increase protections for federal employees who expose fraud, waste and wrongdoing inside the government. Lawmakers of both parties say the measures are needed to prevent retaliation against such . . . [more]
October 02, 2004
#31 - Pre-emption Backfired
George Bush has insisted repeatedly on the campaign trail that his presidency has been characterized by unwavering policies based on core convictions. But a key component of his security and military strategy -- a willingness to wage war "pre-emptively" against perceived enemies -- lies largely in tatters, say experts and . . . [more]
George Bush has insisted repeatedly on the campaign trail that his presidency has been characterized by unwavering policies based on core convictions. But a key component of his security and military strategy -- a willingness to wage war "pre-emptively" against perceived enemies -- lies largely in tatters, say experts and . . . [more]
September 30, 2004
#33 - "Where is the Word Sorry?"
Press Gaggle by Scott McClellan Aboard Air Force One en Route to MacDill Air Force Base, Florida September 29, 2004 [...] Q Tony Blair has apologized for the evidence that brought the country into war against Iraq, apologizing since apparently some of it was wrong. Do you think the President . . . [more]
Press Gaggle by Scott McClellan Aboard Air Force One en Route to MacDill Air Force Base, Florida September 29, 2004 [...] Q Tony Blair has apologized for the evidence that brought the country into war against Iraq, apologizing since apparently some of it was wrong. Do you think the President . . . [more]
September 05, 2004
#58 - Daddy Dearest
From Friday's Boston Globe, "Card says president sees America as a child needing a parent": White House Chief of Staff Andrew Card said yesterday that President Bush views America as a ''10-year-old child" in need of the sort of protection provided by a parent. Card's remark, criticized later by Democrat . . . [more]
From Friday's Boston Globe, "Card says president sees America as a child needing a parent": White House Chief of Staff Andrew Card said yesterday that President Bush views America as a ''10-year-old child" in need of the sort of protection provided by a parent. Card's remark, criticized later by Democrat . . . [more]
August 29, 2004
#65 - Closing the Door on Tories
Fromn today's Guardian (UK), "Howard hits back over Bush rebuff": Michael Howard last night delivered a robust attack on George W Bush for 'protecting' Tony Blair after it was revealed that the US president's staff told him he was not welcome in the White House. Aides to the Conservative leader . . . [more]
Fromn today's Guardian (UK), "Howard hits back over Bush rebuff": Michael Howard last night delivered a robust attack on George W Bush for 'protecting' Tony Blair after it was revealed that the US president's staff told him he was not welcome in the White House. Aides to the Conservative leader . . . [more]
August 22, 2004
#72 - Bush the Fundamentalist
Since the attacks of Sept. 11, the president and his administration have converged a religious fundamentalist worldview with a political agenda -- a distinctly partisan one, wrapped in the mantle of national interest but crafted by and for only those who share their outlook. It is a modern form of . . . [more]
Since the attacks of Sept. 11, the president and his administration have converged a religious fundamentalist worldview with a political agenda -- a distinctly partisan one, wrapped in the mantle of national interest but crafted by and for only those who share their outlook. It is a modern form of . . . [more]
August 21, 2004
#73 - He Lets John Ashcroft Run Loose
In a tightly wound city of soaring bridges, mysterious tunnels and towers that reach into the clouds, how do you make sure that terrorists won't strike again? I would focus on little things - like making sure folks can't wander onto the grounds of Kennedy Airport without permission. I would . . . [more]
In a tightly wound city of soaring bridges, mysterious tunnels and towers that reach into the clouds, how do you make sure that terrorists won't strike again? I would focus on little things - like making sure folks can't wander onto the grounds of Kennedy Airport without permission. I would . . . [more]
August 06, 2004
#88 - Walking Away from an Opportunity to Help Keep Nuclear Materials out of the Hands of Terrorists
From Saturday's Washington Post, "U.S. Shifts Stance on Nuclear Treaty": In a significant shift in U.S. policy, the Bush administration announced this week that it will oppose provisions for inspections and verification as part of an international treaty that would ban production of nuclear weapons materials. For several years the . . . [more]
From Saturday's Washington Post, "U.S. Shifts Stance on Nuclear Treaty": In a significant shift in U.S. policy, the Bush administration announced this week that it will oppose provisions for inspections and verification as part of an international treaty that would ban production of nuclear weapons materials. For several years the . . . [more]
August 04, 2004
#90 - Democracy Should Look Better Than This
From the Springfield, Missouri News-Leader, "Bush rally was sad day for democracy": The phrase "this is what democracy looks like" changed meaning as the protest of President Bush's appearance in Springfield unfolded. Initially, the phrase described the thousands of people lined up with tickets, waiting to enter the field house, . . . [more]
From the Springfield, Missouri News-Leader, "Bush rally was sad day for democracy": The phrase "this is what democracy looks like" changed meaning as the protest of President Bush's appearance in Springfield unfolded. Initially, the phrase described the thousands of people lined up with tickets, waiting to enter the field house, . . . [more]
July 27, 2004
#98 - Lack of Disclosure
From yesterday's Washington Post, "Archivist's Resignation Questioned - Democrats Seek Reason for His Being Pushed Out": Archivist of the United States John W. Carlin was pushed by the White House in December to submit his resignation without being given any reason, Senate Democrats disclosed last week at a hearing to . . . [more]
From yesterday's Washington Post, "Archivist's Resignation Questioned - Democrats Seek Reason for His Being Pushed Out": Archivist of the United States John W. Carlin was pushed by the White House in December to submit his resignation without being given any reason, Senate Democrats disclosed last week at a hearing to . . . [more]
July 04, 2004
#121 - We Hold These Truths to be Self-Evident
When they first heard the Declaration of Independence in July of 1776, New Yorkers were so electrified that they toppled a statue of King George III and had it melted down to make 42,000 bullets for the war. Two hundred twenty-eight years later, you can still get a rush from . . . [more]
When they first heard the Declaration of Independence in July of 1776, New Yorkers were so electrified that they toppled a statue of King George III and had it melted down to make 42,000 bullets for the war. Two hundred twenty-eight years later, you can still get a rush from . . . [more]
June 30, 2004
#125 - The Real Meaning of Democracy
It’s not the "City on a Hill" version that Bush espouses (minus the meekness, gentleness, patience and liberality). No, what is truly great about America’s democracy is the system of checks and balances that we memorized in the eighth grade. Sure, it was boring then, but to see it in . . . [more]
It’s not the "City on a Hill" version that Bush espouses (minus the meekness, gentleness, patience and liberality). No, what is truly great about America’s democracy is the system of checks and balances that we memorized in the eighth grade. Sure, it was boring then, but to see it in . . . [more]
June 29, 2004
#126 - Caution: Falling Chips
From Remarks by President George Bush, Prime Minister of Ireland Bertie Ahern, and President of the European Commission Romano Prodi on Saturday: Q Thank you. Mr. President, you don't appear to be a very popular fellow here in Europe. Do you have any explanation for your poor poll standings? And . . . [more]
From Remarks by President George Bush, Prime Minister of Ireland Bertie Ahern, and President of the European Commission Romano Prodi on Saturday: Q Thank you. Mr. President, you don't appear to be a very popular fellow here in Europe. Do you have any explanation for your poor poll standings? And . . . [more]
June 08, 2004
#147 - His Administration is More Interested in "Legal" Than "Right"
From today's New York Times, "Lawyers Decided Bans on Torture Didn't Bind Bush": A team of administration lawyers concluded in a March 2003 legal memorandum that President Bush was not bound by either an international treaty prohibiting torture or by a federal antitorture law because he had the authority as . . . [more]
From today's New York Times, "Lawyers Decided Bans on Torture Didn't Bind Bush": A team of administration lawyers concluded in a March 2003 legal memorandum that President Bush was not bound by either an international treaty prohibiting torture or by a federal antitorture law because he had the authority as . . . [more]
June 02, 2004
#153 - He Doesn't Listen to the Right People
From yesterday's AP wire via The Boston Globe, "Iraq costs are $119.4 billion and rising; lawmakers ponder how money might have been spent: Even by Washington standards, the $119.4 billion that President Bush and Congress have provided for the first two years of the war in Iraq is real money. . . . [more]
From yesterday's AP wire via The Boston Globe, "Iraq costs are $119.4 billion and rising; lawmakers ponder how money might have been spent: Even by Washington standards, the $119.4 billion that President Bush and Congress have provided for the first two years of the war in Iraq is real money. . . . [more]
May 18, 2004
#168 - He's a Divider, Not a Uniter
From an editorial in yesterday's Tomah Journal (WI), "Bush visit symbolizes scripted politics": Only bona-fide George W. Bush supporters could enter President Bush's Friday campaign rally in La Crosse. According to Sandra McAnany of Norwalk (see letter to editor), Bush partisans who monitored checkpoints asked people to unbutton their shirts . . . [more]
From an editorial in yesterday's Tomah Journal (WI), "Bush visit symbolizes scripted politics": Only bona-fide George W. Bush supporters could enter President Bush's Friday campaign rally in La Crosse. According to Sandra McAnany of Norwalk (see letter to editor), Bush partisans who monitored checkpoints asked people to unbutton their shirts . . . [more]
May 17, 2004
#169 - More Cognitive Dissonance
The Iraq prisoner abuse scandal shifted Sunday to the question of whether the Bush administration set up a legal foundation that opened the door for the mistreatment. Within months of the Sept. 11 attacks, White House counsel Alberto Gonzales reportedly wrote President Bush a memo about the terrorism fight and . . . [more]
The Iraq prisoner abuse scandal shifted Sunday to the question of whether the Bush administration set up a legal foundation that opened the door for the mistreatment. Within months of the Sept. 11 attacks, White House counsel Alberto Gonzales reportedly wrote President Bush a memo about the terrorism fight and . . . [more]
May 06, 2004
#180 - His Utter Lack of Humility
Yesterday George Bush was interviewed by Alhurra Television regarding the torture of Iraqi detainees: First, people in Iraq must understand that I view those practices as abhorrent. They must also understand that what took place in that prison does not represent America that I know. [. . .] The American . . . [more]
Yesterday George Bush was interviewed by Alhurra Television regarding the torture of Iraqi detainees: First, people in Iraq must understand that I view those practices as abhorrent. They must also understand that what took place in that prison does not represent America that I know. [. . .] The American . . . [more]
May 01, 2004
#185 - He Can't Fix a Problem If He Refuses to Acknowledge Its Existence
From today's Seattle Times, "One year later, Bush backs Iraq speech on carrier": One year ago today, Bush donned a flight suit, landed on an aircraft carrier and declared "victory" beneath a banner that read "Mission Accomplished." Democrats fretted that the election — not only the Iraq war — might . . . [more]
From today's Seattle Times, "One year later, Bush backs Iraq speech on carrier": One year ago today, Bush donned a flight suit, landed on an aircraft carrier and declared "victory" beneath a banner that read "Mission Accomplished." Democrats fretted that the election — not only the Iraq war — might . . . [more]
April 25, 2004
#191 - The Power Grab
Bush et al. continue to tamper with the boundaries of the Constitution: The Bush administration's effort before the Supreme Court to shield the names of private citizens who helped devise its energy policy might appear on the surface unrelated to its defense, in cases also before the court, of the . . . [more]
Bush et al. continue to tamper with the boundaries of the Constitution: The Bush administration's effort before the Supreme Court to shield the names of private citizens who helped devise its energy policy might appear on the surface unrelated to its defense, in cases also before the court, of the . . . [more]
April 20, 2004
#196 - Shameless Propaganda
From today's New York Times, "An I.R.S. Promotion for Bush at Tax Time": As the deadline for filing tax returns approached, news releases from the Internal Revenue Service included a little something extra, a sentence promoting the administration's tax policies that said, "America has a choice: It can continue to . . . [more]
From today's New York Times, "An I.R.S. Promotion for Bush at Tax Time": As the deadline for filing tax returns approached, news releases from the Internal Revenue Service included a little something extra, a sentence promoting the administration's tax policies that said, "America has a choice: It can continue to . . . [more]
April 16, 2004
#200 - Voter Disconnect
Yesterday, Bush had this to say about taxes: On Tax Day 2004, President Bush told voters in the heartland that his policies are fattening their wallets and that tax cuts he pushed through Congress should be made permanent to fuel the economy. "Tax relief today, and not tax relief tomorrow, . . . [more]
Yesterday, Bush had this to say about taxes: On Tax Day 2004, President Bush told voters in the heartland that his policies are fattening their wallets and that tax cuts he pushed through Congress should be made permanent to fuel the economy. "Tax relief today, and not tax relief tomorrow, . . . [more]
April 15, 2004
#201 - More Stonewalling from the Bush Administration
From last week's AP wire, via the Miami Herald, "Jeffords Holds Up Bush's EPA Nominations": Four of President Bush's nominations for top jobs at the Environmental Protection Agency were put on hold Wednesday by Sen. Jim Jeffords, I-Vt., who said he was protesting the agency's refusal to provide him documents . . . [more]
From last week's AP wire, via the Miami Herald, "Jeffords Holds Up Bush's EPA Nominations": Four of President Bush's nominations for top jobs at the Environmental Protection Agency were put on hold Wednesday by Sen. Jim Jeffords, I-Vt., who said he was protesting the agency's refusal to provide him documents . . . [more]
March 19, 2004
#228 - He's Using His Father's Tactics...and They Should Backfire This Time, Too
From an article by William Saletan on Slate yesterday, "Enemies of the States - If you're against Bush, you're against America": If you oppose George Bush's policies, or if you're supported by anybody who opposes George Bush's policies, you're anti-American. That was the message of the 1988 presidential campaign of . . . [more]
From an article by William Saletan on Slate yesterday, "Enemies of the States - If you're against Bush, you're against America": If you oppose George Bush's policies, or if you're supported by anybody who opposes George Bush's policies, you're anti-American. That was the message of the 1988 presidential campaign of . . . [more]
March 02, 2004
#245 - Censorship in the Guise of Trading with the Enemy
Thought the Patriot Act was bad? Just wait until the Bushies get ahold of the Persian poets on your bookshelf. Writers often grumble about the criminal things editors do to their prose. The federal government has recently weighed in on the same issue — literally. It has warned publishers they . . . [more]
Thought the Patriot Act was bad? Just wait until the Bushies get ahold of the Persian poets on your bookshelf. Writers often grumble about the criminal things editors do to their prose. The federal government has recently weighed in on the same issue — literally. It has warned publishers they . . . [more]
February 24, 2004
#252 - The Red Menace Returns
The Bush administration's enemies are everywhere. Unlike the communists of yesteryear, however, the enemies of the 21st Century come in two forms: haters of freedom and democracy or terrorists. Often they are one in the same. Just yesterday, Education Secretary Rod Paige branded the National Education Association, the nation's largest . . . [more]
The Bush administration's enemies are everywhere. Unlike the communists of yesteryear, however, the enemies of the 21st Century come in two forms: haters of freedom and democracy or terrorists. Often they are one in the same. Just yesterday, Education Secretary Rod Paige branded the National Education Association, the nation's largest . . . [more]
February 13, 2004
#263 – More Overreaching by Justice: the Slippery Slope Law in Action
The Justice Department is demanding that at least six hospitals in New York City, Philadelphia and elsewhere turn over hundreds of patient medical records on certain abortions performed there. Lawyers for the department say they need the records to defend a new law that prohibits what opponents call partial-birth abortions. . . . [more]
The Justice Department is demanding that at least six hospitals in New York City, Philadelphia and elsewhere turn over hundreds of patient medical records on certain abortions performed there. Lawyers for the department say they need the records to defend a new law that prohibits what opponents call partial-birth abortions. . . . [more]
February 12, 2004
#264 – Ashcroft’s Justice Department Can’t Remember What Decade it is
Americans’ civil liberties continue to be attacked by an overzealous Justice Department – even in the red states: To hear the antiwar protesters describe it, their forum at a local university last fall was like so many others they had held over the years. They talked about the nonviolent philosophies . . . [more]
Americans’ civil liberties continue to be attacked by an overzealous Justice Department – even in the red states: To hear the antiwar protesters describe it, their forum at a local university last fall was like so many others they had held over the years. They talked about the nonviolent philosophies . . . [more]
February 10, 2004
#266 - The President Unhinged, Part II
More sounding off from Sunday's Meet the Press interview on NBC. Russert: The General Accounting Office, which are the nation's auditors President Bush: Yeah. Russert: have done a study of our finances. President Bush: Um hmm. Russert: And this is what your legacy will be to the next generation. It . . . [more]
More sounding off from Sunday's Meet the Press interview on NBC. Russert: The General Accounting Office, which are the nation's auditors President Bush: Yeah. Russert: have done a study of our finances. President Bush: Um hmm. Russert: And this is what your legacy will be to the next generation. It . . . [more]
February 04, 2004
#272 - More Bad Science
From yesterday's Wired News, via Helpful Reader E, "Stacking the Deck Against Science": Under the guise of promoting sound science, the Bush administration is advancing a policy that could make it more difficult for federal agencies to protect health and the environment, U.S. scientists say. A White House Office of . . . [more]
From yesterday's Wired News, via Helpful Reader E, "Stacking the Deck Against Science": Under the guise of promoting sound science, the Bush administration is advancing a policy that could make it more difficult for federal agencies to protect health and the environment, U.S. scientists say. A White House Office of . . . [more]
February 02, 2004
#274 - Executive Order 13233
First, some background about the Presidential Records Act and EO 13233 from "Executive Order Undermines Democracy", an article by Ira Berlin in the Organization of American Historians Newsletter, May 2002: A product of the Watergate Crisis, the Presidential Records Act had its origins in Richard Nixon's attempt to privatize and . . . [more]
First, some background about the Presidential Records Act and EO 13233 from "Executive Order Undermines Democracy", an article by Ira Berlin in the Organization of American Historians Newsletter, May 2002: A product of the Watergate Crisis, the Presidential Records Act had its origins in Richard Nixon's attempt to privatize and . . . [more]
January 30, 2004
#277 - He Refuses to Acknowledge Failure
From yesterday's New York Times, "George Bush, in Denial": While Tony Blair was cooperating with a British investigation into his handling of the lead-up to the Iraqi invasion, the Bush White House continued to follow its strategy of spin and evade. Because Mr. Blair was compelled to take the risk . . . [more]
From yesterday's New York Times, "George Bush, in Denial": While Tony Blair was cooperating with a British investigation into his handling of the lead-up to the Iraqi invasion, the Bush White House continued to follow its strategy of spin and evade. Because Mr. Blair was compelled to take the risk . . . [more]
January 21, 2004
#286 - Because the Unexamined Democracy is Not Worth Fighting For
Bush's "us vs. them" policies were front and center in last night's State of the Union speech. This mentality (complete with smirks on cue) smacks of his moral certitude: you're either with us or against us, and if you're against us, well then, you're gonna go to hell. Last night . . . [more]
Bush's "us vs. them" policies were front and center in last night's State of the Union speech. This mentality (complete with smirks on cue) smacks of his moral certitude: you're either with us or against us, and if you're against us, well then, you're gonna go to hell. Last night . . . [more]
January 18, 2004
#289 - He's Overseen More Executions than Any Governor in Modern History
Say, let's celebrate National Sanctity of Human Life Day with a look at Bush's record on the death penalty: The most controversial aspect of Bush's governorship, however, remains his support for the death penalty in the state that has executed more inmates than any other. Bush's appearance at the Conservative . . . [more]
Say, let's celebrate National Sanctity of Human Life Day with a look at Bush's record on the death penalty: The most controversial aspect of Bush's governorship, however, remains his support for the death penalty in the state that has executed more inmates than any other. Bush's appearance at the Conservative . . . [more]
January 17, 2004
#290 - Choice
From Bush's proclamation, National Sanctity of Human Life Day, 2004: As Americans, we are led by the power of our conscience and the history of our country to defend and promote the dignity and rights of all people. Each person, however frail or defenseless, has a place and a purpose . . . [more]
From Bush's proclamation, National Sanctity of Human Life Day, 2004: As Americans, we are led by the power of our conscience and the history of our country to defend and promote the dignity and rights of all people. Each person, however frail or defenseless, has a place and a purpose . . . [more]
January 06, 2004
#301 - More Overstepping
From yesterday's AP wire, via the Wichita Eagle, "White House Seeks Secrecy on Detainee": In an extraordinary request, the Bush administration asked the Supreme Court on Monday to let it keep its arguments secret in a case involving an immigrant's challenge of his treatment after the Sept. 11 terror attacks. . . . [more]
From yesterday's AP wire, via the Wichita Eagle, "White House Seeks Secrecy on Detainee": In an extraordinary request, the Bush administration asked the Supreme Court on Monday to let it keep its arguments secret in a case involving an immigrant's challenge of his treatment after the Sept. 11 terror attacks. . . . [more]
January 05, 2004
#302 - His Administration’s Horrible Acronyms
As if the tortuous USA PATRIOT (Uniting and Strengthening America by Providing Appropriate Tools Required to Intercept and Obstruct Terrorism) Act wasn’t enough, here comes US-VISIT (U.S. Visit and Immigrant Status Indicator Technology). And the quality of the acronym is just the tip of the iceberg. . . . [more]
As if the tortuous USA PATRIOT (Uniting and Strengthening America by Providing Appropriate Tools Required to Intercept and Obstruct Terrorism) Act wasn’t enough, here comes US-VISIT (U.S. Visit and Immigrant Status Indicator Technology). And the quality of the acronym is just the tip of the iceberg. . . . [more]
December 29, 2003
#309 - More Power for the FBI
Say, with all the fuss surrounding the capture of Saddam Hussein, did anyone happen to notice this gem from two weeks ago? President Bush signed legislation making it easier for FBI agents investigating terrorism to demand financial records from casinos, car dealerships and other businesses. The changes were included in . . . [more]
Say, with all the fuss surrounding the capture of Saddam Hussein, did anyone happen to notice this gem from two weeks ago? President Bush signed legislation making it easier for FBI agents investigating terrorism to demand financial records from casinos, car dealerships and other businesses. The changes were included in . . . [more]
December 23, 2003
#315 - His Administration Tampers with the Historical Record
From an article by Dana Milbank on eCommerce Times, "White House Web Scrubbing": It's not quite Soviet-style airbrushing, but the Bush administration has been using cyberspace to make some of its own cosmetic touch-ups to history. White House officials were steamed when Andrew S. Natsios, the administrator of the U.S. . . . [more]
From an article by Dana Milbank on eCommerce Times, "White House Web Scrubbing": It's not quite Soviet-style airbrushing, but the Bush administration has been using cyberspace to make some of its own cosmetic touch-ups to history. White House officials were steamed when Andrew S. Natsios, the administrator of the U.S. . . . [more]
December 21, 2003
#317 - Cities Can't Afford His Fund Raising
Last August we cited Bush's habit of spending public money without granting public access while on the fund raising trail. Here's the latest from Hunts Point, Washington: HUNTS POINT - Officials in this small town have received a check toward the cost of 100 police officers who protected President Bush . . . [more]
Last August we cited Bush's habit of spending public money without granting public access while on the fund raising trail. Here's the latest from Hunts Point, Washington: HUNTS POINT - Officials in this small town have received a check toward the cost of 100 police officers who protected President Bush . . . [more]
December 20, 2003
#318 - He Thinks He Has the Right to Detain American Citizens Indefinitely and Without Access to Representation
From Thursday's Guardian (UK), "Bush Overruled on 'Dirty Bomb' Suspect": President Bush does not have power to detain American citizen Jose Padilla, the former gang member seized on U.S. soil, as an enemy combatant, a federal appeals court ruled Thursday. The decision, which ordered that Padilla be released from military . . . [more]
From Thursday's Guardian (UK), "Bush Overruled on 'Dirty Bomb' Suspect": President Bush does not have power to detain American citizen Jose Padilla, the former gang member seized on U.S. soil, as an enemy combatant, a federal appeals court ruled Thursday. The decision, which ordered that Padilla be released from military . . . [more]
December 18, 2003
#320 - Bumbling, or Malacious - Either Way, He Shouldn't be Re-elected
From an article on Slate by Daniel Drezner, "Bush the Bumbler: The real trouble with the president's foreign policy": There are three ways to criticize the Bush administration's approach to foreign policy. The first way is both simple and simple-minded: Bush is the evil creature of corporate interests, pursuing militarized . . . [more]
From an article on Slate by Daniel Drezner, "Bush the Bumbler: The real trouble with the president's foreign policy": There are three ways to criticize the Bush administration's approach to foreign policy. The first way is both simple and simple-minded: Bush is the evil creature of corporate interests, pursuing militarized . . . [more]
December 10, 2003
#328 - He Won't Take Good Advice from His Own Party
From yesterday’s AP wire, via the Boston Globe, " Lawmakers call for more Iraqi involvement in their nation's rebuilding": Two U.S. House members who spent three days and two nights last week in Iraq without the usual military escort said the United States must give Iraqis a greater role in . . . [more]
From yesterday’s AP wire, via the Boston Globe, " Lawmakers call for more Iraqi involvement in their nation's rebuilding": Two U.S. House members who spent three days and two nights last week in Iraq without the usual military escort said the United States must give Iraqis a greater role in . . . [more]
November 28, 2003
#340 - Terror Tactics on the Homefront
The Guardian reports that the war on terror is coming home. The FTAA Summit in Miami represents the official homecoming of the "war on terror". The latest techniques honed in Iraq - from a Hollywoodised military to a militarised media - have now been used on a grand scale in . . . [more]
The Guardian reports that the war on terror is coming home. The FTAA Summit in Miami represents the official homecoming of the "war on terror". The latest techniques honed in Iraq - from a Hollywoodised military to a militarised media - have now been used on a grand scale in . . . [more]
November 21, 2003
#347 - Because They Even Have to Ask
Inquiring Aussies want to know: Has Bush changed his mind? Or was there no mind to change? In 2000, Bush said that the Bill Clinton-Al Gore administration had been reckless in overcommitting the US, and the military in particular, to exercises in "nation building". By that he meant trying to . . . [more]
Inquiring Aussies want to know: Has Bush changed his mind? Or was there no mind to change? In 2000, Bush said that the Bill Clinton-Al Gore administration had been reckless in overcommitting the US, and the military in particular, to exercises in "nation building". By that he meant trying to . . . [more]
November 19, 2003
#349 - Because He's Going to Try to Amend the Constitution
And not over something intelligent, like getting guns off our streets. Nope, President Bush and his "moral majority" cronies are going to try to change the supreme law of the land - tampered with only 27 times in its 214-year history - to meddle in the intricacies of interpersonal relationships. . . . [more]
And not over something intelligent, like getting guns off our streets. Nope, President Bush and his "moral majority" cronies are going to try to change the supreme law of the land - tampered with only 27 times in its 214-year history - to meddle in the intricacies of interpersonal relationships. . . . [more]
November 14, 2003
#354 - George v. George
George Soros, one of the world's wealthiest financiers and philanthropists, has declared that getting George Bush out of the White House has become the "central focus" of his life, and he has put more than $15m (£9m) of his own money where his mouth is. Mr. Soros argues that the . . . [more]
George Soros, one of the world's wealthiest financiers and philanthropists, has declared that getting George Bush out of the White House has become the "central focus" of his life, and he has put more than $15m (£9m) of his own money where his mouth is. Mr. Soros argues that the . . . [more]
November 06, 2003
#362 - We Can’t Trust Him to Make Decisions for Women
President Bush signed legislation banning late-term (“partial-birth”) abortions yesterday, although the new law was quickly blocked by a federal judge. A federal judge in Nebraska blocked implementation of a federal ban on certain late-term abortions Wednesday, less than an hour after President Bush signed the ban into law. U.S. District . . . [more]
President Bush signed legislation banning late-term (“partial-birth”) abortions yesterday, although the new law was quickly blocked by a federal judge. A federal judge in Nebraska blocked implementation of a federal ban on certain late-term abortions Wednesday, less than an hour after President Bush signed the ban into law. U.S. District . . . [more]
October 31, 2003
#368 - His Moral Smugness
President Bush announced in Tuesday's press conference that he fully supported the actions of his brother, Florida Governor Jeb Bush, in ordering Terri Schiavo's feeding tube reinserted after state courts repeatedly affirmed her husband's right to allow her to die. That a state legislature, at Governor Bush's request, would pass . . . [more]
President Bush announced in Tuesday's press conference that he fully supported the actions of his brother, Florida Governor Jeb Bush, in ordering Terri Schiavo's feeding tube reinserted after state courts repeatedly affirmed her husband's right to allow her to die. That a state legislature, at Governor Bush's request, would pass . . . [more]
October 29, 2003
#370 - "A Willful Ignorance"
Op-Ed by Paul Krugman in the New York Times: According to The New York Times, President Bush was genuinely surprised to learn from moderate Islamic leaders that they had become deeply distrustful of American intentions. The report on the "perception gap" suggests that the leader of the war on terror . . . [more]
Op-Ed by Paul Krugman in the New York Times: According to The New York Times, President Bush was genuinely surprised to learn from moderate Islamic leaders that they had become deeply distrustful of American intentions. The report on the "perception gap" suggests that the leader of the war on terror . . . [more]
October 25, 2003
#374 - More Environmental Shenanigans From the EPA
We might as well start calling it the Environmental Pardon Agency. Environmental Protection Agency rule changes could lead to almost 1.4 million tons more air pollution in 12 states and jeopardize Clinton-era lawsuits against power plants, two studies concluded yesterday, contradicting Bush administration claims. EPA studies in 2002 found that . . . [more]
We might as well start calling it the Environmental Pardon Agency. Environmental Protection Agency rule changes could lead to almost 1.4 million tons more air pollution in 12 states and jeopardize Clinton-era lawsuits against power plants, two studies concluded yesterday, contradicting Bush administration claims. EPA studies in 2002 found that . . . [more]
October 22, 2003
#377 - He Avoids the Tough Questions
Bush’s stinginess with his time when it comes to responding to questions from the press is well known at home. According to the Sydney Morning Herald, he doesn’t feel any more generous abroad: George Bush's word is apparently beyond question. At least, by the Australian press. The US President has . . . [more]
Bush’s stinginess with his time when it comes to responding to questions from the press is well known at home. According to the Sydney Morning Herald, he doesn’t feel any more generous abroad: George Bush's word is apparently beyond question. At least, by the Australian press. The US President has . . . [more]
October 17, 2003
#382 - More News from Down Under: Thanks President Buckaroo, but You’re Not Helping
From the BBC News website, "Bush hails 'sheriff' Australia": Mr Bush was asked by an Australian newspaper whether he agreed with Australian Prime Minister John Howard's comment in 1999 that his country was the US' "deputy sheriff". Mr Bush promptly gave Australia a promotion. "No. We don't see it as . . . [more]
From the BBC News website, "Bush hails 'sheriff' Australia": Mr Bush was asked by an Australian newspaper whether he agreed with Australian Prime Minister John Howard's comment in 1999 that his country was the US' "deputy sheriff". Mr Bush promptly gave Australia a promotion. "No. We don't see it as . . . [more]
October 12, 2003
#387 - Donald Rumsfeld, Ambassador of Love
From the Guardian (UK), "Bush launches PR salvo on Iraq": The [Bush] administration is taking the 'good news in Iraq' message out into smalltown America. A series of speeches and interviews for Bush and top aides has been planned for this week with local newspapers and small television stations. From . . . [more]
From the Guardian (UK), "Bush launches PR salvo on Iraq": The [Bush] administration is taking the 'good news in Iraq' message out into smalltown America. A series of speeches and interviews for Bush and top aides has been planned for this week with local newspapers and small television stations. From . . . [more]
October 10, 2003
#389 - Maybe They're All Hiding in the Basement of the White House, Next to Truman's "The Buck Stops Here" Sign
From BuzzFlash, courtesy helpful reader David-but-not-David-Sirota, "Bush Swears He'll Hunt Down Osama and Saddam, But Says He Can't Find a Treasonous Betrayer in His Own Administration Because It's Too Big": A BUZZFLASH GUEST NEWS ANALYSIS by David Sirota The Bush Administration on finding Osama Bin Laden in Central Asia: "We're . . . [more]
From BuzzFlash, courtesy helpful reader David-but-not-David-Sirota, "Bush Swears He'll Hunt Down Osama and Saddam, But Says He Can't Find a Treasonous Betrayer in His Own Administration Because It's Too Big": A BUZZFLASH GUEST NEWS ANALYSIS by David Sirota The Bush Administration on finding Osama Bin Laden in Central Asia: "We're . . . [more]
October 01, 2003
#398 - He's a Public Relations Disaster
Here’s some shocking news: the U.S. has a bad image in the Muslim world, via the New York Times. The United States must drastically increase and overhaul its public relations efforts to salvage its plummeting image among Muslims and Arabs abroad, a panel chosen by the Bush administration has found. . . . [more]
Here’s some shocking news: the U.S. has a bad image in the Muslim world, via the New York Times. The United States must drastically increase and overhaul its public relations efforts to salvage its plummeting image among Muslims and Arabs abroad, a panel chosen by the Bush administration has found. . . . [more]
September 29, 2003
#400 - Because Revenge is Not Something an Administration Should be Focused on
From Bush officials who leaked name of US spy 'for revenge' could face jail, via the UK's Independent: The Justice Department is investigating whether Bush administration officials broke the law by revealing the identity of an undercover CIA operative whose husband disparaged claims by the White House that Iraq was . . . [more]
From Bush officials who leaked name of US spy 'for revenge' could face jail, via the UK's Independent: The Justice Department is investigating whether Bush administration officials broke the law by revealing the identity of an undercover CIA operative whose husband disparaged claims by the White House that Iraq was . . . [more]
September 28, 2003
#401 - The Hypocrisy
The United States maintained its dominance in the international arms market last year, especially in sales to developing nations, according to a new Congressional report. The United States was the leader in total worldwide sales in 2002, with about $13.3 billion, or 45.5 percent of global conventional weapons deals, a . . . [more]
The United States maintained its dominance in the international arms market last year, especially in sales to developing nations, according to a new Congressional report. The United States was the leader in total worldwide sales in 2002, with about $13.3 billion, or 45.5 percent of global conventional weapons deals, a . . . [more]
September 25, 2003
#404 - He’s Ignorant by Design
From today’s New York Times, "The Presidential Bubble": Four progressive political groups sued the Bush administration this week, charging that the Secret Service is systematically keeping protesters away from the president's public appearances. They make a serious point about free speech rights, but they also point out a disturbing aspect . . . [more]
From today’s New York Times, "The Presidential Bubble": Four progressive political groups sued the Bush administration this week, charging that the Secret Service is systematically keeping protesters away from the president's public appearances. They make a serious point about free speech rights, but they also point out a disturbing aspect . . . [more]
September 24, 2003
#405 - He Surrounds Himself with Rabid Right-Wingers, Part IV
AG John Ashcroft wins again with a new policy directive that furthers his drive to take control of the the U.S. judicial system by forcing federal prosecutors to operate in an ever narrower ideological box. Attorney General John Ashcroft today made it tougher for federal prosecutors to strike plea bargains . . . [more]
AG John Ashcroft wins again with a new policy directive that furthers his drive to take control of the the U.S. judicial system by forcing federal prosecutors to operate in an ever narrower ideological box. Attorney General John Ashcroft today made it tougher for federal prosecutors to strike plea bargains . . . [more]
September 23, 2003
#406 - He Is Never Wrong
Bush heads to the United Nations today to ask for money and troops, but don't expect any mea culpas. That wouldn't poll well. President Bush will tell the other members of the United Nations Tuesday that the organization is relevant after all -- at least when it comes to helping . . . [more]
Bush heads to the United Nations today to ask for money and troops, but don't expect any mea culpas. That wouldn't poll well. President Bush will tell the other members of the United Nations Tuesday that the organization is relevant after all -- at least when it comes to helping . . . [more]
September 21, 2003
#408 - He’s Not Just Poisoning His Own Electorate
Apparently undermining the Clean Air Act in this country just isn't toxic enough. From today’s Independent (UK), "Bush steps up fight against European safety testing": President George Bush is mounting an intensive campaign to force European countries to drop safety tests expected to save thousands of lives each year, internal . . . [more]
Apparently undermining the Clean Air Act in this country just isn't toxic enough. From today’s Independent (UK), "Bush steps up fight against European safety testing": President George Bush is mounting an intensive campaign to force European countries to drop safety tests expected to save thousands of lives each year, internal . . . [more]
September 17, 2003
#412 - He Blusters
The Bush administration named Syria and Libya yesterday as "rogue states" whose weapons of mass destruction must not just be controlled but must be eliminated by whatever means necessary. (Newsday) So this is how we calm things down in the Middle East? Now that Syria and Libya (along with Cuba) . . . [more]
The Bush administration named Syria and Libya yesterday as "rogue states" whose weapons of mass destruction must not just be controlled but must be eliminated by whatever means necessary. (Newsday) So this is how we calm things down in the Middle East? Now that Syria and Libya (along with Cuba) . . . [more]
September 13, 2003
#416 - He Doesn't Play Well With Others
From "America set to torpedo trade talks", via the Guardian (UK): Fears are growing that the United States could effectively walk away from crucial trade talks in the Mexican resort of Cancun aimed at solving the deepening economic and social crisis afflicting billions of the world's poorest people. As the . . . [more]
From "America set to torpedo trade talks", via the Guardian (UK): Fears are growing that the United States could effectively walk away from crucial trade talks in the Mexican resort of Cancun aimed at solving the deepening economic and social crisis afflicting billions of the world's poorest people. As the . . . [more]
September 12, 2003
#417 - He Wants to Expand the PATRIOT Act
President Bush commemorated the September 11, 2001 attacks yesterday by calling for increased measures to investigate, detain and, if need be, kill those suspected of terrorist activity. Yes, you heard correctly. He wants to expand the USA PATRIOT Act because, apparently, it did not go far enough to deprive individuals . . . [more]
President Bush commemorated the September 11, 2001 attacks yesterday by calling for increased measures to investigate, detain and, if need be, kill those suspected of terrorist activity. Yes, you heard correctly. He wants to expand the USA PATRIOT Act because, apparently, it did not go far enough to deprive individuals . . . [more]
September 06, 2003
#423 - The Arrogance and Outright Lies
From "Rumsfeld Hails 'Wonderful Start' to New Iraq", via Reuters Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld lauded the "wonderful start" to rebuilding Iraq on Saturday even as guerrillas attacked his troops and hundreds of protesters marched to demand jobs. We're not sure exactly what Rumsfeld's definition of "wonderful" is, but we're pretty . . . [more]
From "Rumsfeld Hails 'Wonderful Start' to New Iraq", via Reuters Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld lauded the "wonderful start" to rebuilding Iraq on Saturday even as guerrillas attacked his troops and hundreds of protesters marched to demand jobs. We're not sure exactly what Rumsfeld's definition of "wonderful" is, but we're pretty . . . [more]
September 03, 2003
#426 - He Still Doesn't Get It, Part Three
From today’s New York Times, "Bush Looks to U.N. to Share Burden on Troops in Iraq": President Bush agreed today to begin negotiations in the United Nations Security Council to authorize a multinational force for Iraq but insisted that the troops be placed under American command, according to senior administration . . . [more]
From today’s New York Times, "Bush Looks to U.N. to Share Burden on Troops in Iraq": President Bush agreed today to begin negotiations in the United Nations Security Council to authorize a multinational force for Iraq but insisted that the troops be placed under American command, according to senior administration . . . [more]
August 22, 2003
#438 - He Spends Public Money without Granting Public Access
Incumbent Candidate Bush is in our neighborhood today, but he won’t be visiting Seattle. Instead, he’ll attend a private, $2,000-a-pop fund raising event in nearby Hunts Point, not-so-coincidentally in the only district in the county he won in the 2000 election. It’s also the sixth richest city in Washington. But . . . [more]
Incumbent Candidate Bush is in our neighborhood today, but he won’t be visiting Seattle. Instead, he’ll attend a private, $2,000-a-pop fund raising event in nearby Hunts Point, not-so-coincidentally in the only district in the county he won in the 2000 election. It’s also the sixth richest city in Washington. But . . . [more]
August 20, 2003
#440 - Still Unencumbered by Reality
From Remarks by the President on Bombing in Baghdad, via the White House Bush Ranch, Crawford, TX August 19, 2003 The terrorists who struck today have again shown their contempt for the innocent. They showed their fear of progress and their hatred of peace. They are the enemies of the . . . [more]
From Remarks by the President on Bombing in Baghdad, via the White House Bush Ranch, Crawford, TX August 19, 2003 The terrorists who struck today have again shown their contempt for the innocent. They showed their fear of progress and their hatred of peace. They are the enemies of the . . . [more]
August 19, 2003
#441 - Bush/Cheney '04, Inc. Gets Wired
The Bush/Cheney re-election website is officially online today. You can take a quiz on the President's accomplishments, add Bush/Cheney headlines to your blog, sign up to be a Bush team leader, and read snippets of why "everyday, more people support President Bush!" We have to admit, it's a pretty good . . . [more]
The Bush/Cheney re-election website is officially online today. You can take a quiz on the President's accomplishments, add Bush/Cheney headlines to your blog, sign up to be a Bush team leader, and read snippets of why "everyday, more people support President Bush!" We have to admit, it's a pretty good . . . [more]
July 23, 2003
#467 - He Alienates the World and then Demands Its Help
The President’s post-September 11 foreign policy diktat – “You’re either with us or you’re against us” – hasn’t done the country much good. In fact, this type of statement accompanied by the administration’s constant bullying have so alienated our traditional allies that the foundation of the post-WWII western alliance may . . . [more]
The President’s post-September 11 foreign policy diktat – “You’re either with us or you’re against us” – hasn’t done the country much good. In fact, this type of statement accompanied by the administration’s constant bullying have so alienated our traditional allies that the foundation of the post-WWII western alliance may . . . [more]
July 21, 2003
#469 - He Had Already Started the War in Iraq Back in 2002
Using the no-fly zone as an excuse, the Bush administration started its campaign in Iraq in mid-2002. So last March when it looked like he would just go ahead and do as he damn well pleased, he was, in fact, already doing as he damn well pleased. . . . [more]
Using the no-fly zone as an excuse, the Bush administration started its campaign in Iraq in mid-2002. So last March when it looked like he would just go ahead and do as he damn well pleased, he was, in fact, already doing as he damn well pleased. . . . [more]
July 19, 2003
#471 - Don’t Write Us, We’ll Write You
From the New York Times via the Seattle Post-Intelligencer: Under a system that was deployed on the White House Web site for the first time last week, those who want to send a message to Bush must now navigate as many as nine Web pages and fill out a detailed . . . [more]
From the New York Times via the Seattle Post-Intelligencer: Under a system that was deployed on the White House Web site for the first time last week, those who want to send a message to Bush must now navigate as many as nine Web pages and fill out a detailed . . . [more]
July 09, 2003
#481 - He Turns His Allies into Poodles
Seriously ... poodles. No need to be charitable with your friends when you've "overdosed on moral clarity." And no need to worry about making enemies when you are so self-righteously sure of your ideology. . . . [more]
Seriously ... poodles. No need to be charitable with your friends when you've "overdosed on moral clarity." And no need to worry about making enemies when you are so self-righteously sure of your ideology. . . . [more]
July 04, 2003
#486 - It's Our Right and Duty
From The Declaration of Independence: Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed, --That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying . . . [more]
From The Declaration of Independence: Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed, --That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying . . . [more]
June 27, 2003
#493 – He Ignores the Lessons of History
The Bush administration went blundering into Iraq full of belligerence and exaggerated claims of WMD but no realistic exit strategy, the holy grail of all U.S. military action since Vietnam. Now the remaining coalition forces struggle to maintain order in a country that doesn’t want them, barely functions, and isn’t . . . [more]
The Bush administration went blundering into Iraq full of belligerence and exaggerated claims of WMD but no realistic exit strategy, the holy grail of all U.S. military action since Vietnam. Now the remaining coalition forces struggle to maintain order in a country that doesn’t want them, barely functions, and isn’t . . . [more]
June 24, 2003
#496 - Shut up and Eat Your Genetically Modified Muesli
Yesterday, from the mouth of Fearless Leader: Acting on unfounded, unscientific fears, many European governments have blocked the import of all new biotech crops. Because of these artificial obstacles, many African nations avoid investing in biotechnology, worried that their products will be shut out of important European markets. Yeah! What're . . . [more]
Yesterday, from the mouth of Fearless Leader: Acting on unfounded, unscientific fears, many European governments have blocked the import of all new biotech crops. Because of these artificial obstacles, many African nations avoid investing in biotechnology, worried that their products will be shut out of important European markets. Yeah! What're . . . [more]
June 23, 2003
#497 - He Violates International Law
The treatment of the prisoners held at Guantanamo Bay Naval Base in Cuba goes beyond inhumane. The 680 prisoners from 42 countries being held by the U.S. military live in conditions so desperate that suicide – specifically forbidden by the Koran – is increasingly common. They live in tiny cells . . . [more]
The treatment of the prisoners held at Guantanamo Bay Naval Base in Cuba goes beyond inhumane. The 680 prisoners from 42 countries being held by the U.S. military live in conditions so desperate that suicide – specifically forbidden by the Koran – is increasingly common. They live in tiny cells . . . [more]
June 20, 2003
#500 - He’s Helped Make the World Unsafe for Americans Everywhere
President Bush’s response to the September 11 attacks has never taken into account the reasons why we were vulnerable to attack – and we’re not talking about a lack of homeland security. Bush ran his pre-September 11 foreign policy by using the might of the United States to bully the . . . [more]
President Bush’s response to the September 11 attacks has never taken into account the reasons why we were vulnerable to attack – and we’re not talking about a lack of homeland security. Bush ran his pre-September 11 foreign policy by using the might of the United States to bully the . . . [more]
June 13, 2003
#507 - International Arrogance, Part I
The Bush administration has refused to send to the U.S. Senate for ratification the treaty that created the International Criminal Court – a body which uses international law to try individuals charged with genocide, war crimes, and other widespread crimes against civilians. President Clinton signed the treaty in his final . . . [more]
The Bush administration has refused to send to the U.S. Senate for ratification the treaty that created the International Criminal Court – a body which uses international law to try individuals charged with genocide, war crimes, and other widespread crimes against civilians. President Clinton signed the treaty in his final . . . [more]
June 05, 2003
#515 - He Practices Nation-Building on the Cheap
Afghanistan and Iraq are utter wrecks. Sure, it’s exciting to go to war and take out the bad guys – it’s hard to argue that the Taliban or Saddam deserved to stay in power – but what about the more important job of putting these nations back together? What that . . . [more]
Afghanistan and Iraq are utter wrecks. Sure, it’s exciting to go to war and take out the bad guys – it’s hard to argue that the Taliban or Saddam deserved to stay in power – but what about the more important job of putting these nations back together? What that . . . [more]
May 26, 2003
#525 - An Era of Dominance
Yesterday’s New York Times page 1 headline: "Buoyed by Resurgence, G.O.P. Strives for an Era of Dominance." . . . [more]
Yesterday’s New York Times page 1 headline: "Buoyed by Resurgence, G.O.P. Strives for an Era of Dominance." . . . [more]
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