Murdoch and Koch Collude Against Wisconsin Workers

Bruce Springsteen's Angry Patriotism

Theology for Dummies

FOCUS: The Crazy Rush to Attack Iran

Navy SEALs: Obama's Secret Army

FOCUS: How Companies Learn Your Secrets

Excerpt: "Ginning up the right-wing rabble is a Fox News specialty. Glenn Beck is more than a talk-show host; he's Rupert Murdoch's community organizer. Like Koch, Murdoch embraces a completely deregulatory agenda: one that would leave giant corporations such as News Corp., the second largest entertainment company in the world, according to Fortune magazine, with nary a single regulation to stand in the way of profit-taking."

Rupert Murdoch and the Koch brothers share the same deregulatory agenda and are organizing against Wisconsin protesters. (photo: Ruters)

Comments

+42 # DaveW. 2011-02-26 10:33

If Murdoch and the Kochs aren't Fascists then the word needs to be re-defined. Their vision of Democracy would also need redefinition when considering the practices they are engaged in. Absolute power corrupts absolutely. These men are living embodiments of that essential and everlasting truth. Here are a few "Hitlerisms" to compare with Murdoch and the Koch's ideology: "By the skillful and sustained use of propaganda, one can make a people see even heaven as hell or an extremely wretched life as paradise." "Humanitarianism is the expression of stupidity and cowardice." "I believe today that my conduct is in accordance with the will of the Almighty Creator." "I use emotion for the many and reserve reason for the few." Whilst America sleeps, or plays video games, or watches "American Idol" or entertains itself with a myriad of distractions, these people and their seemingly tireless minions are working, using a tried and true, and ultimately disastrous credo, to reshape first America and then the world. We are in grave danger. Ukrainian proverb: "To a fool the ocean is knee-deep." I'd estimate we're about waist deep.

+19 # X Dane 2011-02-26 15:14

Yes Dave, to use the water analogy: "we are on a raft rapidly approaching Iguasu falls" (A huge powerful waterfall on the border of Brazi, Argentina and Paraguay)
Terrifying, and still......when you talk with many of our country men and women, they don't have a clue. They don't realize the danger, and they don't KNOW who these monsters are, and what they DO. When upper crust New Yorkers read Lisa Meyer's (?) article exposing the vile Koch brothers, they were VERY surprized, for they only knew the brothers as these generous philanthropists .

With one hand they dole out a few crumbs and look so altruistic, with the other they grab all the bread in the store, leaving nothing for the rest of us.

Steven Moore, pops up whenever you turn on CNN. I have always vehemently disagreed with him, but I didn't know until now, that he was bought and paid for by Murdoch and the Kochs. It is so sickening.

BTW. I went on your website, very interesting. Can you comment on it?

+9 # DaveW. 2011-02-26 19:28

X Dane, I've read quite a bit of Marx. In my opinion he gets a bad rap. I don't believe he envisioned Communism turning out the way it did anymore than some of the founders of this country envisioned Capitalism turning out as it has. Marx warned of the "distractions"that a capitalistic society would use to keep its people in the dark as to the true nature of their nefarious activities. The robber barons of the Gilded Age i.e. Rockefeller, Vanderbilt, Carnegie, Morgan, Hill and others were extremely cognizant of the "cover" that philanthropy would provide. The Koch's and others obviously aren't stupid. But they are immoral. You can comment on my blog. Are you inquiring whether "you" can leave comments or if you'd like "me" to? If I could ask a question: Why did you leave Denmark? From what I gather it sounds so much better that the country this one is rapidly becoming. Do you ever think of going back? Is that a possibility? Are you averse to stowaways?
lol I REALLY am ashamed at the identity this country is assuming.. I'm almost glad my parents are dead so they don't have to see it happening. I know that sounds terrible. Just feel so goddamned frustrated. Excuse an aging malcontent who is witnessing potential turn to poison.

+6 # X Dane 2011-02-27 16:03

Dave, I made a comment on your blog; but I don't know if it registered. I like your poems very much. You can certainly ask. I left Denmark because my then boyfriend, later husband, had immigrated 2 years earlier, when I was not yet finished with my education. He came back, and I came here. Denmark, I would say the three Scandinavian countries, are well run and good to live in. There are certainly very wealthy people, but the middle class is the biggest and doing well.
Yes, I COULD go back; but this is absolutely my home. My children and grandsons are here, and so are my many good friends. My husband died last September after a lengthy illness. Still because of my family and friends I am not lonely, and I have a good life but I am angry and sad to see that our young are having so much trouble getting an education, which THEY need, to have a decent life, and WE need them to, in order for our country to survive.
It is also tragic and infuriating that older people who did all the right things, are loosing all, because they lost jobs, and health care insurance.

It is very frightening to see the direction our country is taking. I wonder what I can do. I work at raising money for scholarships for college, and wondering what else I can do.
What's that with "aging" malcontent, Dave. You are in the prime of your life.

+1 # DaveW. 2011-02-28 10:03

X Dane, Thanks for looking at my poems and your reply to my question. I understand why this is now you're home and am very happy to have people like you to communicate with. You're comments about young people and the elderly are certainly valid points. I keep asking myself why? Why would people like the Koch brothers, for instance, who have everything the material world can bring you, want to impose economic ans social hardship on those less fortunate? I believe people like this are suffering from some sort of mental illness. I wonder what I can do to. I write a great deal and volunteer as a softball coach at a inner city high school where I live. Been doing that for seven years now. Very rewarding to help kids that come from VERY humble backgrounds enjoy themselves on the field. As for the "aging" malcontent deal...well, your as young as you feel. I'm feeling awful old lately. I have Peripheral Neuropathy in both legs and feet. Very painful at times. In a strange way though I believe it's made me a better person. I'm very sorry to hear about your husband. I've been married for 31 years. Can't imagine not being with her. Stay well. I know we'll be talking in the future. The way this country is going there will be LOTS to talk about.

+20 # joyster 2011-02-26 11:13

Free Bumper Sticker:
Don't Believe the Lying Billionaires - Fox and Kochs

+19 # LeeBlack 2011-02-26 11:15

I remember when Murdoch bought The Wall Street Journal and all the pundits said that the magazine would retain it's honesty and fairness.

+4 # X Dane 2011-02-26 15:23

Good for you, DPM. I applaud your guts and tenacity. Keep going

+10 # X Dane 2011-02-26 15:35

HA, Lee, I didn't by it for a minute. Everything Murdoch touches turns to dirt.
Many years ago I remember reading about his filthy rags in England, what a vile piece of scum he was, and how detested.

Little did I know that he would soon be spreading his poison here, and I am afraid, will for many years to come,for his brood is ready to continue,.... make that are already in the business.

+12 # Activista 2011-02-26 11:26

www.naomiklein.org/shock-doctrine/the-book
and the Kochs agenda/ideology is no secret -

+9 # DPM 2011-02-26 12:02

My favorite bumper sticker:
"Under Republicans, Man exploits man. Under Democrats, it's just the opposite."
I just returned from a rally to support The Protesters in Wisconsin. In a small village in a rural, non-union, Republican dominated county, we still managed 35-40 marchers. It was cold and only about 15% of the passersby cheered. Still...not bad for here.
How'd you do?

+21 # angelfish 2011-02-26 12:12

The Robber Barons of the last Century are back with the full approval of at least half of the elected whores in Washington. They have succumbed to the "come-ons" by the Mega-wealthy Pimps who own them (and, consequently, us) body and soul. WHY is no one in Washington, except for Bernie Sanders, calling them out on this? If they allow this rape and pillage of the American Worker to continue, America is doomed. What's happening in Wisconsin is just the beginning. As we are seeing, more are following, soon, State by State, they will have us ALL by the short hairs. Thank God for the courageous workers and 14 Wisconsin State Senators who are standing firm in their resolve NOT to be steam rollered by their lunatic Governor. American citizens MUST support them in this fight that concerns each and every one of us, NOT just State or Federal Employees. Unions are what GAVE the working man the right to a 40 hour week, and job protection, to name a few good things American workers now enjoy. They want to BREAK the Unions so they can turn us all into drones for their production lines, only the workers will have no bargaining rights, no health care, no paid sick leave, NO NOTHING! That is their goal. ALL for them, NOTHING for the Worker! FIGHT them tooth and nail! They must NOT succeed! America's economic LIFE depends on the American Worker and his Freedom to bargain in good faith!

+9 # DaveW. 2011-02-27 10:44

angelfish, Excellent comment! Have you ever read any of the works of Emma Goldman, the radical, sometimes labeled "anarchist" who was deported to Russia in 1920 I believe. She spoke quite eloquently and forcefully about the attempt by the Robber Barons of her time to turn the American citizen/laborer into what she called the "worker bees." She went on to say that their was an elitist conspiracy to keep low and middle income Americans poorly educated and unable to form unions or "collectives" in order to bargain for decent working hours, conditions and wages. Women's rights,she wrote, along with Margaret Sanger, would also come under fire so that a continual stream of "labor/cannon fodder" would be available to operate the levers of industry for lousy money under often horrific conditions and that those who didn't like it could join the military. Aren't we fully engaged in that mentality right now? Howard Zinn's "A People's History of the United States" provides an excellent detailing of the forces opposed to labor garnering the rights most Americans now take for granted. But check out Goldman sometime. Fascinating, fearless and insightful woman!

+3 # angelfish 2011-02-27 15:56

I've heard of Emma Goldman, but don't know all that much about her. She was one of the Principal characters in the movie "Reds", I believe. I've become politically aware rather late in my life, but as a Union member I've seen the good and bad sides of negotiating contracts with "administrations ". Thankfully, I'm retired and don't have to worry on THAT score any more. I DO feel for the Union workers in Wisconsin and all over this Country. The ReTHUGlicans have ALWAYS fought the Unions trying to keep the "great Unwashed" ignorant AND unwashed (who could afford soap?)if it was up to THEM. Hopefully, Americans will wake from their comas and realize that these miscreants have them fighting against their OWN best interests. Thanks for your comments Dave, I really appreciate your input.

+2 # X Dane 2011-02-27 16:42

Right on Dave, I have not heard of Emma Goldman before but there are many women who have made great contributions to the country and to the world. France has a really smart-- I think she is finance minister-- Christine Laguarde. I am not sure about the spelling of her last name.
I have seen her on "Charlie Rose" and I think also on Fareed Zakaria. France is lucky having her.

+3 # Buckles 2011-02-26 14:09

Beck may rich,but he is a looser in the organizing union members game, we see the racists drivel spewing from both him and Murdock's adgenda. As for the WSJ, my library has it daily, but there may be one or two people there that read it. We need to flood the Koch's and Murdocks clan with our hatered from the American workers. We know how bad these groups are.

+7 # curmudgeon 2011-02-26 14:21

Murdoch's UK operation is in the process as being the instigators of plot that intercepted cell phone conversations among politicians, media folks, entertainment idols. At least 13 suits have been filed against his UK News org with a judge ordering Scotland Yard to stop deleting the names of persons ordering the intercepts.

Probably been doing it here and not been caught...potential for blackmailing

+12 # giraffe 2011-02-26 15:23

Unless the Supremes retract their "Let Corporations = individuals" for campaign funds - 2012 will be a complete take over of our government by these GOP culprits -

We know Scalia/Thomas slept with Koch just before the Supremes came up with that equality (which any child can determine is UNCONSTITUTIONA L)

We KNOW what is happening but have NOBODY to STOP the take over?

Even MSNBC is too chicken to spell it out! They make fun of Palin instead of ATTACKING the Koch/Murdock criminals.

HELP

+4 # X Dane 2011-02-27 18:05

Giraffe, you are not watching enough. Rachel Maddow does a great job of exposing a lot of the scum. The Koch brothers, "The family" and all the crooks (I think it is on K street,) who are living in apartments for 900 dollars with maid service and many other amenities?????? Of course underwritten by the right wing. She also thoroughly exposed Ensign of Nevada, all his shenanigans, from his affair with a staffer's wife, to his parents trying to buy the staffer off, and Ensign getting him a job,
And the man's son too was getting money. Rachel exposed the whole disgusting affair. What happened. N O T H I N G. Ensign, that scumbag is out fundraising for his next campaign. It is sickening if Nevadans re-elect him.
Rachel also shined a BIG light on Thomas and his teabag wife. She really does a good job,

+7 # michelle 2011-02-27 09:42

Our local ABC affiliate in Sacramento showed the Feb 26th rally. The level of bias was frightening. The news footage showed a small group of union people infront of the capitol but failed to mention it was an hour before the rally started and there were only about fifty people milling around. The rally had 1011 sign ups but many more people showed up by noon. The next footage showed the tea party at the end of the rally with maybe 60-70 people. The implication was it was evenly split. There was no coverage of teabagger crew trying to inflitrate the rally and provoke violence. No coverage of the constant whistle blowing to try and drown out the union speakers. I knew the media was biased but to experience such a blatant selection of data--I don't even have words to cover what happened. The CBS affiliate was not much better with the anchor saying for some unions are a 'nightmare.' Be sure to support RSN and other alternative news sources. Corporate media will protect itself.

+4 # X Dane 2011-02-27 17:10

Michelle, that is why people, who only watch the 3 "major" networks are so ill informed. MSNBC has shown a lot of what is going on in Wisconsin.
Unfortunately for all of us the media is owned by the right wing, so not much of what we REALLY need to know comes out. They want to keep the "masses" as ignorant as possible.

+2 # michelle 2011-02-27 21:02

No cable in my house but I am glad to hear there is good coverage available. Our local paper,the Sacramento Bee, claimed only four hundred people showed up so even the print media is unreliable. The Bee also over reported the TP numbers.
Both print and 'major' networks reported a scuffle between a very young man and an older teabagger. The teabagger was in the face of the young man, literally in the face with spit flying, when the boy finally pushed him. The TPer claimed a wrist injury and coincidentally had a ace bandage to wrap it up. Really, do all TPers carry ace bandages to rallies?
Without good info it is difficult for people to make any decision much less a good one. The only positive note to the rally was the optimism of so many of the participants. Many feel we have turned the corner. I hope they are correct.
My best info comes from those on the ground. A friend of my husband in WI said the profs at UW LaCrosse voted to be a union in response to the governor. I will include a link to public vs private pay. Real research and facts don't impress the TP. http://epi.3cdn.net/8808ae41b085032c0b_8um6bh5ty.pdf

0 # genierae 2011-02-28 11:41

X Dane: I just wanted to say that while Dish Network's basic package includes CNN and Fox, I have to get expanded basic to get MSNBC. That means that a lot of people will not see Maddow, Schultz and O'Donnell, because they only have basic. No one at DN seems to know why this is, but then they don't know much about anything else either.

+6 # Windy126 2011-02-27 11:11

There are more and more out in the streets of Wisconsin every day. I have joined in, in my hometown along with daughter, grand daughters and Great grandson who is 5 and autistic. He wanted to know why all those people were there. I tried to explain it was to make sure he had a good life when he grew up. He then said all I want is a job when I am big so I can work. Right now the future doesn't look too bright for
him. With the union busting going on and the funding for the special education he needs being cut it will take a miracle or a big lottery win to ensure him of what he wants. A job.

+1 # genierae 2011-02-28 11:47

Windy126: I also have a grandson who is five and he has Aspergers. I love him so much and worry, as you do, about his future. The world that these lunatic Republicans are creating will not be a kind one for kids growing up today, especially those with special needs. That's why its so important that we organize and work very hard to take our country back! Please give your grandson a hug for me.

+3 # DPM 2011-02-27 14:57

Thanks michelle and windy. I marched on Saturday, too.
The news companies are sponsored by corporations unsympathetic to workers. So, expect the bias. Money talks. But, we're not done.
As another reader wrote, Sparkle and Brawney are Koch companies and easily substituted. Don't buy them. Take your money out of BofA. Put it in a credit union. Pass it on. You'll be happier and you have just fired a shot at some true criminals. Thanks1

+3 # CLRHolt 2011-02-27 16:15

USUncut had a rally at a main branch of BoA yesterday - the local NBC affiliate had cameras there, but they have yet to show it on their broadcasts. Bit surprise there, NOT. BoA has ads on NBC and MSNBC quite a lot.
I guess we're just supposed to suck it up and realize that we're being run by a gaggle of corporate prostitutes. Exceptions are so few and far between that they can be counted on one hand and still have digits left over.

+1 # michelebanks 2011-03-01 12:57

Don't buy Koch products is part of the answer. You are right on target. We need to take our own kind of action and stop buying Koch products. This will speak the loudest to these right-wingers who want to deprive workers of their rights.
They need a taste of their own medicine. This is your chance. Let's start a public ban on buying Koch products and keep them out of our homes and businesses. Print the list and spread the word. Words are good, action is the best!
Subject: The Koch Brothers - DO NOT BUY THEIR PRODUCTS (Pass it on to others!!)

Brothers Charles and David Koch, with a combined worth around $35 billion dollars, are waging a war against President Obama. They are major financiers of the Tea Party and are providing money to run anti-democratic ads.

Don't buy these products!
1. Industry/Georgia-Pacific Products:
2. Angel Soft toilet paper
3. Brawny paper towels
4. Dixie plates, bowls, napkins & cups
5. Mardi Gras napkins and towels
6. Quilted Northern toilet paper
7. Soft 'n Gentle toilet paper
8. Sparkle napkins
9. Vanity fair napkins
10. Zee napkins

Send this list to facebook and all of your contacts and print it out and make copies to distribute.

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