We have a chance to unveil a new direction in the coming year, but we face what may be among the toughest obstacles ever faced by a Congress in power. President Bush and his cronies are determined to fight the Democrats in every way possible, and their partisanship has no rival in American history. The calls for bi-partisanship from the President only mean that he wants his critics to capitulate to his plans; he's certainly not going to budge in the slightest. In the past, this has been portrayed by the media as a position of strength, but in this case it's a sinking life raft and he's taking the rest of the country down with him. We can expect vetoes of virtually all legislation, along with outlandish provocation designed to bemuse us into accepting arduously obtained tidbits. Token bills will be passed that fall far short of the meaningful progress voters indicated they wanted last November.
Our Christmas and New Years' celebrations were tainted by the rush to hang Saddam Hussein, in a travesty of justice that we were taught in grade school only occurred under totalitarian regimes. It's true that the man did deserve punishment, but it should have been delivered by an international court if it was to have legitimacy. A trial like this could never occur in the United States, because we would have assured that he had an impartial jury and location. Oh, I forgot, except that now anyone deemed an "enemy combatant" can be tried by military tribunals under the same farcical conditions as the Iraqi court. It was the Bush administration that insisted that Saddam be tried in Iraq (in our own Green Zone, of course) instead of by the International Criminal Court; the ICC doesn't allow the death penalty, and the U.S. has withdrawn from its jurisdiction anyway.
It's obvious that a speedy execution is the result that our government wanted from the beginning. There was never any doubt what the verdict would be. Factions in Iraq have always wanted their revenge against Saddam, and this fit well with our plan to silence him before any more could be revealed about U.S. complicity in his crimes. The next trial could have brought to light inconvenient details about the U.S. arming of Iraq during the Iran war, and even our involvement in the gassing of the Kurds. We claimed at the time that it was the Iranians who were responsible for the attacks; it appears now to be an attempt to explain the event away. On the other hand, there are reports that this might be a correct assessment after all, thereby nullifying one of the main charges of both the prosecution and the Bush administration's propaganda machine. A serious investigation of this incident would have exposed uncomfortable truths that the U.S. wanted suppressed. In any case, we can't ignore the fact that the chemical weapons allegedly used by Saddam were supplied by us, with our approval. Our government was arming the Iraqi military for many years in a failed attempt to solve the perceived Iran problem.
When Saddam became resistant to providing us with all the oil we wanted, we gave him the "green light" to invade Kuwait, and then used that as an excuse to start the first Gulf War. It should be understood that Kuwait was part of Iraq until it was sectioned off as part of the British empire, and that the current regime was using U.S. equipment to slant drill under the border in order to siphon off Iraqi oil. After pushing Saddam's forces back into Iraq, we declared victory, and then proceeded to starve the Iraqi people for twelve years with the "oil for food" sanctions. In the autumn of 2000, Saddam threatened to switch to euros instead of dollars as a standard for monetary exchange and thus make it harder for the U.S. to plunder huge profits from oil sales. This was the last straw for the forces in the new Bush administration who were determined to oust him; well before their false excuse of 9/11. After the invasion of Iraq, one of the first acts of the U.S. installed government was to revert back to a dollars-based system.
It's a shame that the citizens of Iraq have had to suffer so grievously because American oil interests embedded in our government acted illegally and invaded a sovereign nation while essentially assassinating their leader. Apparently, the secrets Saddam held could not be allowed to be recited in the semblance of an open courtroom (such as it was). Saddam Hussein was installed into power by us, and by not stopping this rush to execution we have now lowered ourselves to the level of atrocities we purport to abhor. Our audacity cannot be undone, and the beginning of a new year isn't enough to erase the sin.
Lost in the shuffle is the landmark 3000th death of U.S. military forces in Iraq; perhaps this was another reason to expedite the hanging. Maybe they thought the numerous deaths would look better in the light of one high-profile death for "crimes against humanity," particularly since it was supposedly to rid Iraq of Saddam's "weapons of mass destruction" that we invaded their country in the first place. Considering the gullibility of the American public, they may have been right in their calculation.
It probably doesn't bother George W. Bush that our holiday celebrations were overcome by a savage, barbaric act that we refused to stop because we ourselves instigated it. The President could spend time on his ranch and then mourn former President Ford's passing, while downplaying what should have been his gleeful "victory." In the next weeks, a new Congress will begin to sift through the hubris and will face a belligerent executive determined to press forward with his scorched-earth agenda. Instead of scaling down troop levels, Bush wants to increase them; whether he gets his "surge" or not, he will at least get to maintain current numbers, and that's part of his goal.
It remains to be seen whether Congress will have the guts to pull the funding for this misadventure. Perhaps if those representing Iraq will just sign over all the oil contracts to U.S. companies, our troops can withdraw. Wait, that's exactly what they are in the process of arranging. Of course, we will need half our current forces operating from permanent bases to forever protect the booty. That's the real reason behind this fiasco: to establish a long-term U.S. presence in the Middle East, thus securing the natural resources we believe we so desperately need. A better option would be to sign a peace treaty with the countries involved, and help with the development of wind, solar, and bio-mass energy sources world-wide. It may be the only way to avert an unsolvable crisis, but time is running out.
We can be thankful that at least we don't have a rubber stamp Congress anymore, and perhaps the most disastrous legislation won't get passed this year. There is a looming presidential race that the media won't let us forget about, though heaven knows we need to be thinking about a new president as soon as possible. Meanwhile, restraining President Bush is the most daunting task before the American people. If we can get through the next year without starting another war, I guess we can call that a success.
Happy New Year!
Sources:
http://www.commondreams.org/headlines07/0107-01.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views07/0106-29.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views07/0108-25.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views07/0107-28.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/0103-61.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/0103-60.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/0103-56.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views07/0104-27.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views07/0104-30.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/1231-30.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/1230-30.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/1230-25.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/1230-27.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/1230-26.htm
http://consortiumnews.com/2003/022703a.html
http://www.truthout.org/docs_2006/123106D.shtml
http://www.truthout.org/docs_2006/123106A.shtml
Sunday, December 31, 2006
Thursday, November 30, 2006
Sore Winners
On election night hope was restored, and by the next evening, many were giddy with the news that the Democrats had taken not only the House of Representatives but the Senate as well, albeit by as slim a margin as possible. I've never been so deliciously wrong in my predictions. For the first time in twelve years, Democrats have a majority in the House and will chair committees and field inquiries. However, before we celebrate too much, we must consider the daunting task ahead of us. We face the most belligerent administration perhaps in history, outdoing even the disastrous Nixon administration. We can't expect to be given legislative victories, and any failure to break down the edifice will be used as ammunition against us.
We also can't be complacent about the election system in this country, just because we were able to overcome all the obstacles thrown in our way this time. The unadjusted exit polls actually projected a much larger margin of victory for Democrats than the final tally showed. Time spent looking into this too closely could get us accused of being sore winners, but nothing less than the integrity of future elections depends on it. There is evidence that 20% of the methods used to vote failed, and this was actually stated as a positive: 80% of our voting system worked! This shouldn't be acceptable in a true democracy, and would be considered sub-standard in a third-world country.
Some states have still not settled their elections, especially Florida, where 18,000 votes were lost by the electronic voting machines, in a race settled by 369 votes. A recount isn't possible because there is no paper trail; the Democrat, Christine Jennings, is calling for a new election as the only fair way to resolve the issue. Unfortunately, there would need to be a whole new voting system in place first. With all the supposed technology we have at our disposal it should be possible, but going by past experience in Florida, we can't expect much. This is, after all, the House seat vacated by Katherine Harris of 2000 election debacle infamy.
Many opinions have been expressed about a change of course in Iraq, although the best newly-empowered Democrats seem to be able to offer is a "phased" withdrawal beginning in 4-6 months. This is a dangerous plan that echoes the campaign promises of President Nixon during the Vietnam War that ultimately led to a full retreat after thousands more died. If saving lives in both the short and long term is the goal, the only realistic solution is for a complete withdrawal of U. S. Military forces from Iraq as quickly as possible. The length of time it would take to fly our soldiers home is the only phased withdrawal we need. If President Bush doesn't want to set a timetable, then he should just make a surprise decision to "redeploy" (for lack of a better term) immediately. Bush would have to face "defeat" of his plans to transform the Middle East in his image, but he could mitigate the damage by having the courage to admit his tragic mistake. It would be astonishing coming from him, but stranger things have happened (like the Dems retaking Congress in the face of a thorough Republican takeover of our democracy). Unfortunately, it is quite unlikely we will see any progress, because the Bush administration never plans on leaving Iraq; it's part of their ill-advised plan to control Middle Eastern oil and natural gas reserves with permanent bases.
There is only one remedy to this problem. A lot of opinions are being bandied back and forth about whether the new Congress should initiate impeachment proceedings against President Bush and Vice President Cheney. I think it's telling that the new Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi was forced to state that impeachment was "off the table." That this was even reported is in itself an admission by the mainstream press that it is an issue that should be taken seriously. It is at least diplomatic of her, and of new House Judiciary Committee Chairman John Conyers, to not sound the battle cry before they are sworn in. Then there is the question of whether enough time remains for impeachment hearings before the run-up to the 2008 elections. It should be remembered that the Republicans succeeded in getting an impeachment trial involving President Clinton started and completed in 5 months. Of course, the circumstances are much different now, and the charges against Bush and Cheney, et al., are much more involved; the world situation is also more dire, ironically because of those needing impeachment. The sheer magnitude of the crimes committed by this administration daunt the ability to provide oversight. Investigations must be thorough, and since they haven't even officially begun yet, it's truly doubtful they could be completed before Bush's term skids to an end anyway. The chips should fall where they may, however, and it is Congress' duty to hold the executive branch accountable. The administration shouldn't be allowed to simply run out the clock, though it seems quite likely that they will, at least, succeed in accomplishing this ignominious goal.
We can try to think positively, and indeed it's necessary, as we face the nearly insurmountable challenges ahead. Not only the United States, but the world is in a predicament that is completely unprecedented. We must move quickly to embrace policies that preserve both security and the Constitution. Habeas Corpus must be restored as soon as practicable and we must re-join Geneva Convention guidelines on torture. This would be a beginning towards mending the rifts our government has fostered both nationally and internationally, but it needs to start immediately. The clash for resources combined with the threat of global warming present us with dwindling opportunities for course correction. For instance, there is a chance now for a shift towards renewable energy, but time is running out on implementing the necessary changes. Our natural heritage can still be preserved while attaining new standards in solar, wind, and biomass technology. We've made a crucial step in the right direction with these congressional elections. Let's not squander the clear voice of the people backing our endeavors. A bright future is still possible, but we must build on these small victories until a consensus can be reached that everyone regardless of political persuasion can agree on.
Sources:
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/1128-28.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/1128-30.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/headlines06/1126-07.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/1126-27.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/1118-23.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/1119-22.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/1117-21.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/1117-33.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/1115-29.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/1115-33.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/1114-22.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/1114-30.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/1112-21.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/1112-26.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/1110-25.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/1109-22.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/1109-27.htm
http://www.opednews.com/articles/genera_rob_kall_061117_clear_evidence_2006_.htm
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/11/23/AR2006112300965.html?nav=rss_opinion/columns
We also can't be complacent about the election system in this country, just because we were able to overcome all the obstacles thrown in our way this time. The unadjusted exit polls actually projected a much larger margin of victory for Democrats than the final tally showed. Time spent looking into this too closely could get us accused of being sore winners, but nothing less than the integrity of future elections depends on it. There is evidence that 20% of the methods used to vote failed, and this was actually stated as a positive: 80% of our voting system worked! This shouldn't be acceptable in a true democracy, and would be considered sub-standard in a third-world country.
Some states have still not settled their elections, especially Florida, where 18,000 votes were lost by the electronic voting machines, in a race settled by 369 votes. A recount isn't possible because there is no paper trail; the Democrat, Christine Jennings, is calling for a new election as the only fair way to resolve the issue. Unfortunately, there would need to be a whole new voting system in place first. With all the supposed technology we have at our disposal it should be possible, but going by past experience in Florida, we can't expect much. This is, after all, the House seat vacated by Katherine Harris of 2000 election debacle infamy.
Many opinions have been expressed about a change of course in Iraq, although the best newly-empowered Democrats seem to be able to offer is a "phased" withdrawal beginning in 4-6 months. This is a dangerous plan that echoes the campaign promises of President Nixon during the Vietnam War that ultimately led to a full retreat after thousands more died. If saving lives in both the short and long term is the goal, the only realistic solution is for a complete withdrawal of U. S. Military forces from Iraq as quickly as possible. The length of time it would take to fly our soldiers home is the only phased withdrawal we need. If President Bush doesn't want to set a timetable, then he should just make a surprise decision to "redeploy" (for lack of a better term) immediately. Bush would have to face "defeat" of his plans to transform the Middle East in his image, but he could mitigate the damage by having the courage to admit his tragic mistake. It would be astonishing coming from him, but stranger things have happened (like the Dems retaking Congress in the face of a thorough Republican takeover of our democracy). Unfortunately, it is quite unlikely we will see any progress, because the Bush administration never plans on leaving Iraq; it's part of their ill-advised plan to control Middle Eastern oil and natural gas reserves with permanent bases.
There is only one remedy to this problem. A lot of opinions are being bandied back and forth about whether the new Congress should initiate impeachment proceedings against President Bush and Vice President Cheney. I think it's telling that the new Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi was forced to state that impeachment was "off the table." That this was even reported is in itself an admission by the mainstream press that it is an issue that should be taken seriously. It is at least diplomatic of her, and of new House Judiciary Committee Chairman John Conyers, to not sound the battle cry before they are sworn in. Then there is the question of whether enough time remains for impeachment hearings before the run-up to the 2008 elections. It should be remembered that the Republicans succeeded in getting an impeachment trial involving President Clinton started and completed in 5 months. Of course, the circumstances are much different now, and the charges against Bush and Cheney, et al., are much more involved; the world situation is also more dire, ironically because of those needing impeachment. The sheer magnitude of the crimes committed by this administration daunt the ability to provide oversight. Investigations must be thorough, and since they haven't even officially begun yet, it's truly doubtful they could be completed before Bush's term skids to an end anyway. The chips should fall where they may, however, and it is Congress' duty to hold the executive branch accountable. The administration shouldn't be allowed to simply run out the clock, though it seems quite likely that they will, at least, succeed in accomplishing this ignominious goal.
We can try to think positively, and indeed it's necessary, as we face the nearly insurmountable challenges ahead. Not only the United States, but the world is in a predicament that is completely unprecedented. We must move quickly to embrace policies that preserve both security and the Constitution. Habeas Corpus must be restored as soon as practicable and we must re-join Geneva Convention guidelines on torture. This would be a beginning towards mending the rifts our government has fostered both nationally and internationally, but it needs to start immediately. The clash for resources combined with the threat of global warming present us with dwindling opportunities for course correction. For instance, there is a chance now for a shift towards renewable energy, but time is running out on implementing the necessary changes. Our natural heritage can still be preserved while attaining new standards in solar, wind, and biomass technology. We've made a crucial step in the right direction with these congressional elections. Let's not squander the clear voice of the people backing our endeavors. A bright future is still possible, but we must build on these small victories until a consensus can be reached that everyone regardless of political persuasion can agree on.
Sources:
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/1128-28.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/1128-30.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/headlines06/1126-07.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/1126-27.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/1118-23.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/1119-22.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/1117-21.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/1117-33.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/1115-29.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/1115-33.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/1114-22.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/1114-30.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/1112-21.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/1112-26.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/1110-25.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/1109-22.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/1109-27.htm
http://www.opednews.com/articles/genera_rob_kall_061117_clear_evidence_2006_.htm
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/11/23/AR2006112300965.html?nav=rss_opinion/columns
Tuesday, October 31, 2006
Halloween Special
Over the last month or so I've been watching the Universal Pictures productions of Dracula, Frankenstein, The Wolf Man, The Mummy, and The Invisible Man. The Legacy Collection on DVD includes all the original classics plus the sequels produced in the thirties and forties. Though the follow-ups are generally weaker than the originals, most of them hold up quite well; some even managing to equal or surpass their predecessors, at least as entertainment. Hollywood really knew how to make movies consistently back then; the sets were always stunning and the actors were seasoned professionals.
I'm particularly impressed overall with The Invisible Man series, based on the novel by H.G. Wells. The first movie, with Claude Raines, has wonderful special effects for a film made in 1933. The second one, with Vincent Price, is a marvelous blend of horror and the comedic. The third installment, The Invisible Woman, stars John Barrymore as the scientist; it's an intentional comedy and remarkably successful.
The Frankenstein series is also very consistent. The first two, Frankenstein, and Bride of Frankenstein, are among the greatest of the genre, and subsequent entries such as Son of Frankenstein, and Ghost of Frankenstein are worthy of their subjects. The Dracula series is more uneven, though Dracula's Daughter is a fascinating recreation of the legend. Bela Lugosi is a hard act to follow as the quintessential Dracula in the original. The Mummy stars Boris Karloff, of course, and affords us a chance to almost see what he (Karloff) actually looks like, during the mummy's modern incarnation. The rest of The Mummy series can only pale in comparison. The Wolf Man series begins with Werewolf of London in 1935 and peaks with the 1941 title version with Lon Chaney Jr.
Tonight I watched The Wolf Man Meets Frankenstein, a sort of sequel to The Wolf Man, that stars both Lon Chaney Jr. and Bela Lugosi. It's a romp! I've enjoyed this Halloween very much and look forward to eventually seeing the rest of the films in each of the series'. This October I also had the pleasure of reading Dracula by Bram Stoker, a classic Victorian novel that has no equal for its type. Earlier in the year I read Frankenstein by Mary Shelley, a fascinating example of early Nineteenth century writing. Both novels are landmarks and should be on any serious lifetime reading list.
Happy Halloween!
I'm particularly impressed overall with The Invisible Man series, based on the novel by H.G. Wells. The first movie, with Claude Raines, has wonderful special effects for a film made in 1933. The second one, with Vincent Price, is a marvelous blend of horror and the comedic. The third installment, The Invisible Woman, stars John Barrymore as the scientist; it's an intentional comedy and remarkably successful.
The Frankenstein series is also very consistent. The first two, Frankenstein, and Bride of Frankenstein, are among the greatest of the genre, and subsequent entries such as Son of Frankenstein, and Ghost of Frankenstein are worthy of their subjects. The Dracula series is more uneven, though Dracula's Daughter is a fascinating recreation of the legend. Bela Lugosi is a hard act to follow as the quintessential Dracula in the original. The Mummy stars Boris Karloff, of course, and affords us a chance to almost see what he (Karloff) actually looks like, during the mummy's modern incarnation. The rest of The Mummy series can only pale in comparison. The Wolf Man series begins with Werewolf of London in 1935 and peaks with the 1941 title version with Lon Chaney Jr.
Tonight I watched The Wolf Man Meets Frankenstein, a sort of sequel to The Wolf Man, that stars both Lon Chaney Jr. and Bela Lugosi. It's a romp! I've enjoyed this Halloween very much and look forward to eventually seeing the rest of the films in each of the series'. This October I also had the pleasure of reading Dracula by Bram Stoker, a classic Victorian novel that has no equal for its type. Earlier in the year I read Frankenstein by Mary Shelley, a fascinating example of early Nineteenth century writing. Both novels are landmarks and should be on any serious lifetime reading list.
Happy Halloween!
Saturday, September 30, 2006
Serious Biz
We've reached a critical turning point in America and if our course is not changed now it will be too late to shift directions. The coming Congressional elections will decide if one-party rule headed by the Republicans is set in stone or just an aberration. Unfortunately, since the party in power controls the voting machines and key Secretary of State positions, the people will again have no real voice. Our only hope is to expose deceptions as they occur, and even then our chances of publicizing the truth are limited by the mainstream media also controlled by corporations beholden to the White House. If we're not vigilant, the Republicans might not only retain both Houses of Congress, but gain the five seats in the Senate that they need to shut off all debate. That's the direction we're heading and quickly; they're looking for a way to solidify their complete stranglehold on government, now tantalizingly within reach. It's inconceivable that they would allow this opportunity to go unexploited.
Congress has just approved giving President Bush all the power he needs to finish shredding what remains of the rights guaranteed by the Constitution of the United States. We're on the proverbial slippery slope where another attack on the U. S. would give the administration all the excuse it needs to impose its will on the people. The failure to protect us wouldn't matter at that point: they already know they can do whatever they want. It's not sheer incompetence guiding all of this, but a carefully calculated plan crafted back in the 1990's called the Project for a New American Century (PNAC). It includes the infamous report that proclaimed that it would be difficult to achieve their objectives "absent some catastrophic and catalysing event--like a new Pearl Harbor." Most of the architects of the project are currently members of the Bush administration; chiefly Dick Cheney and Donald Rumsfeld. The fiasco in Iraq isn't a mistake, but part of the plan to establish permanent bases on the way to dominating the Middle East, and thus the worldwide oil markets. They are setting the stage for an overthrow of the democratically elected government of Iran that has been their goal from the beginning.
Our last chance to stop this cabal that has taken over our government is upon us. It's hard to feel confident considering three straight stolen elections nationwide: 2000, 2003, and 2004. All of the decisions affecting the world to such a dangerous degree were made by officials that can't prove they were legitimately elected. The machines 80% of Americans are voting on have been proven to be easily hackable, and are being approved without independent certification. Paper ballots, at least as back-ups in case of the inevitable machine malfunction, or to provide a paper-trail in the unlikely event of a recount, have not yet been upheld as mandatory. Consequently, since this year's election is bound to be in doubt because of the lack of basic protections built into the system, we must be prepared to challenge the results; it would be even better if we could expose the ruse once and for all. Barring that, we are in for a rough ride the next few years as we are forced to submit to a right-wing dictatorship in sheep's clothing that wasn't democratically elected.
National mail-in elections are the best solution to all of this; it has worked in Oregon for many years without a glitch. Instead, Republicans are attempting to institute a requirement that voters present an I.D. card at the voting place as proof of citizenship that would place even Oregon's method in jeopardy. It is claimed that we need Voter I.D. to prevent illegal immigrants from voting, when such cases are so few as to be practically non-existent. This is just another red herring to distract us from the fraud they are perpetuating on the American people to keep themselves in office. Many citizens don't have the I.D. that would be mandated and would be effectively disenfranchised. Even if people had the right I.D., imagine this wrinkle added to the long lines in Ohio in 2004 that benefited the party in power, and it's obvious why they support this further obstacle. This wouldn't go into effect until 2008, but we can count on every other form of voter intimidation to occur in the meantime. It will actually be a surprise if the election goes smoothly in November and the Democrats win big as the media so far claims they should. However, it's imperative for the sake of the country and the rest of the world that a semblance of balance is finally restored.
Sources:
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/0928-27.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/0925-35.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/0928-20.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/0930-21.htm
http://itpolicy.princeton.edu/voting/
http://itpolicy.princeton.edu/voting/videos.html
http://www.newamericancentury.org/
http://www.truthout.org/docs_2006/092106R.shtml
http://www.truthout.org/docs_2006/060106R.shtml
Congress has just approved giving President Bush all the power he needs to finish shredding what remains of the rights guaranteed by the Constitution of the United States. We're on the proverbial slippery slope where another attack on the U. S. would give the administration all the excuse it needs to impose its will on the people. The failure to protect us wouldn't matter at that point: they already know they can do whatever they want. It's not sheer incompetence guiding all of this, but a carefully calculated plan crafted back in the 1990's called the Project for a New American Century (PNAC). It includes the infamous report that proclaimed that it would be difficult to achieve their objectives "absent some catastrophic and catalysing event--like a new Pearl Harbor." Most of the architects of the project are currently members of the Bush administration; chiefly Dick Cheney and Donald Rumsfeld. The fiasco in Iraq isn't a mistake, but part of the plan to establish permanent bases on the way to dominating the Middle East, and thus the worldwide oil markets. They are setting the stage for an overthrow of the democratically elected government of Iran that has been their goal from the beginning.
Our last chance to stop this cabal that has taken over our government is upon us. It's hard to feel confident considering three straight stolen elections nationwide: 2000, 2003, and 2004. All of the decisions affecting the world to such a dangerous degree were made by officials that can't prove they were legitimately elected. The machines 80% of Americans are voting on have been proven to be easily hackable, and are being approved without independent certification. Paper ballots, at least as back-ups in case of the inevitable machine malfunction, or to provide a paper-trail in the unlikely event of a recount, have not yet been upheld as mandatory. Consequently, since this year's election is bound to be in doubt because of the lack of basic protections built into the system, we must be prepared to challenge the results; it would be even better if we could expose the ruse once and for all. Barring that, we are in for a rough ride the next few years as we are forced to submit to a right-wing dictatorship in sheep's clothing that wasn't democratically elected.
National mail-in elections are the best solution to all of this; it has worked in Oregon for many years without a glitch. Instead, Republicans are attempting to institute a requirement that voters present an I.D. card at the voting place as proof of citizenship that would place even Oregon's method in jeopardy. It is claimed that we need Voter I.D. to prevent illegal immigrants from voting, when such cases are so few as to be practically non-existent. This is just another red herring to distract us from the fraud they are perpetuating on the American people to keep themselves in office. Many citizens don't have the I.D. that would be mandated and would be effectively disenfranchised. Even if people had the right I.D., imagine this wrinkle added to the long lines in Ohio in 2004 that benefited the party in power, and it's obvious why they support this further obstacle. This wouldn't go into effect until 2008, but we can count on every other form of voter intimidation to occur in the meantime. It will actually be a surprise if the election goes smoothly in November and the Democrats win big as the media so far claims they should. However, it's imperative for the sake of the country and the rest of the world that a semblance of balance is finally restored.
Sources:
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/0928-27.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/0925-35.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/0928-20.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/0930-21.htm
http://itpolicy.princeton.edu/voting/
http://itpolicy.princeton.edu/voting/videos.html
http://www.newamericancentury.org/
http://www.truthout.org/docs_2006/092106R.shtml
http://www.truthout.org/docs_2006/060106R.shtml
Thursday, August 31, 2006
Combating Ennui
We are approaching another crossroad in the American experiment in democracy. The last chance to slow the momentum of the neo-conservatives controlling every facet of government is around the corner in November. Only a Democratic Congress can provide the oversight required to tame the Bush administration's reckless policies. It is not sheer negligence and incompetence that we must overcome, but a fundamental arrogance of power that is hell-bent on achieving its goals of establishing an American empire in the Middle East as the centerpiece of global domination based on oil. That's why we're in Iraq and threatening Iran; it has nothing to do with terrorism. If anything, these actions have increased the threat of terrorism worldwide. The fear-mongering will undoubtedly reach a fever pitch as the 5th anniversary of 9/11 approaches, combined with a crucial election nearing that could spell accountability.
An extremest right-wing ideology has become deeply rooted in our government, and it is not in the best interests of the country as a whole. Unfortunately, those in power really believe the rhetoric they recite, and apparently there is nothing we do can stop them. This has caused a deep cynicism to develop, amounting to a frustration that simply cannot be soothed by conventional or even unconventional means, outside of impeachment. When our right to vote is jeopardized by outright intimidation combined with unreliable and hackable electronic voting, the people become powerless to effect necessary change. Transparency in the election system is absent, and we can't be sure our vote truly counts anymore. For instance, Ohio's votes in the last Presidential election have still not been fully counted or audited, and the announced results have never been verified.
Federal law allows, but doesn't require, the destruction of federal ballots 22 months after election day. Florida, in an appropriate example, chose to house the 2000 ballots in a museum, after the press counted them and found that Al Gore would have won a full recount. As of Sept. 3rd, though, the state of Ohio can legally discard all the ballots from 2004 if it chooses, and Secretary of State Kenneth Blackwell, chairman of George Bush's re-election committee in Ohio, is poised to destroy all the evidence that might expose any malfeasance. Once this happens, the coup will be complete, if it isn't already. We aren't expecting to overturn the results at this late date anyway; we just want to prevent these problems from recurring in the future. Thankfully, a last minute reprieve has rescued the will of the people for a few precious months; at least until a lawsuit can be settled (or the current election is over). That Blackwell is actually on the ballot as the Republican candidate for governor this year while still managing the election is a perfect example of the conflicts of interest that have become commonplace.
It will be hard to carry on against this juggernaut, but the Democrats still have a chance if they are careful to scrutinize the vote this time, and are willing to expose the faults in the system when it malfunctions. The mainstream press must also perform its duty as a watchdog; though if it did, it would be the first time in nearly a decade that it has done so meaningfully. The decline can be traced to the Clinton impeachment farce leading into the 2000 election. We can't expect a corporate-controlled media to allow true democracy to flower, so we should brace ourselves for more dark years to come. Even if the Bush administration can somehow be stopped from implementing its plans, the destruction they have already perpetuated will haunt us for decades. Maybe a new Congress can begin rebuilding the country in the image the forefathers originally envisioned. Our hope lies there, and all we can do is reach for it again with all the confidence we can muster.
Sources:
http://www.commondreams.org/headlines06/0831-06.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/0831-31.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/0831-21.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/0831-24.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/0829-24.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/0829-36.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/0828-21.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/0828-20.htm
An extremest right-wing ideology has become deeply rooted in our government, and it is not in the best interests of the country as a whole. Unfortunately, those in power really believe the rhetoric they recite, and apparently there is nothing we do can stop them. This has caused a deep cynicism to develop, amounting to a frustration that simply cannot be soothed by conventional or even unconventional means, outside of impeachment. When our right to vote is jeopardized by outright intimidation combined with unreliable and hackable electronic voting, the people become powerless to effect necessary change. Transparency in the election system is absent, and we can't be sure our vote truly counts anymore. For instance, Ohio's votes in the last Presidential election have still not been fully counted or audited, and the announced results have never been verified.
Federal law allows, but doesn't require, the destruction of federal ballots 22 months after election day. Florida, in an appropriate example, chose to house the 2000 ballots in a museum, after the press counted them and found that Al Gore would have won a full recount. As of Sept. 3rd, though, the state of Ohio can legally discard all the ballots from 2004 if it chooses, and Secretary of State Kenneth Blackwell, chairman of George Bush's re-election committee in Ohio, is poised to destroy all the evidence that might expose any malfeasance. Once this happens, the coup will be complete, if it isn't already. We aren't expecting to overturn the results at this late date anyway; we just want to prevent these problems from recurring in the future. Thankfully, a last minute reprieve has rescued the will of the people for a few precious months; at least until a lawsuit can be settled (or the current election is over). That Blackwell is actually on the ballot as the Republican candidate for governor this year while still managing the election is a perfect example of the conflicts of interest that have become commonplace.
It will be hard to carry on against this juggernaut, but the Democrats still have a chance if they are careful to scrutinize the vote this time, and are willing to expose the faults in the system when it malfunctions. The mainstream press must also perform its duty as a watchdog; though if it did, it would be the first time in nearly a decade that it has done so meaningfully. The decline can be traced to the Clinton impeachment farce leading into the 2000 election. We can't expect a corporate-controlled media to allow true democracy to flower, so we should brace ourselves for more dark years to come. Even if the Bush administration can somehow be stopped from implementing its plans, the destruction they have already perpetuated will haunt us for decades. Maybe a new Congress can begin rebuilding the country in the image the forefathers originally envisioned. Our hope lies there, and all we can do is reach for it again with all the confidence we can muster.
Sources:
http://www.commondreams.org/headlines06/0831-06.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/0831-31.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/0831-21.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/0831-24.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/0829-24.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/0829-36.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/0828-21.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/0828-20.htm
Monday, July 31, 2006
Convenient Disaster
We now have new hostilities brewing in the Middle East, thanks to a continuation of U.S. and Israeli policies that will never solve the problems of the region. This "recent" crisis has actually been planned for over a year, and has its roots in events occurring five years ago (after Israel ended its occupation of Southern Lebanon in 2000). The taking of two Israeli hostages by Hezbollah is just the excuse they were looking for so they could launch the offensive. It's convenient for President Bush since it distracts from Iraq and pressing domestic problems at home while refocusing attention onto supposed military solutions to every foreign policy decision we face. It also provides a timely boost for Republicans facing an angry electorate this fall in the congressional elections. Though they control the voting machines and are poised to use every trick they can get away with to secure the election, they need another war in order to plausibly claim victory.
A hidden side to the current conflict in Lebanon is the increased violence occurring in Gaza directed at the Palestinians. This crucial aspect will never be solved without the creation of a Palestinian state and the subsequent recognition of Israel's right to exist. A full-fledged war is certainly not the way to accomplish such a resolution. It appeared for a time that peace was finally possible, but events have assured the tenuousness of any ceasefire. That doesn't mean that we should stop calling for a cessation of hostilities until it can be lasting as the administration suggests. A continuation of the assault on Lebanon and Gaza will only delay an end to the destruction it claims to be responding to. It's time for the U.S. to show the kind of diplomacy that the Bush administration has repeatedly shown it is incapable of. Instead, this administration seems hell-bent on another major war to help it achieve its still unfinished goals. It's clear that they would actually welcome another World War, thus solidifying George W.'s "War President" legacy.
All of this is part of the plan to eventually engage Iran and Syria in a fight for control of the Middle East. Already the mainstream media has been touting allegations that Iran might be behind some of the terrorism directed at Israel. Headlines have been planted everywhere in the press in an effort to convince the public that action is necessary to eliminate the threat. Of course, the threat can never be completely eliminated and any military force used against Iran in particular will only exacerbate tensions. Unfortunately for us, any escalation plays into the Bush administration's hands and will just give them all the justification they think they need to prove their case that war is necessary to the American people and the world. The majority won't buy it, but that won't matter to the crowd in charge; they feel they can do whatever they want with impunity. Those in favor of a peaceful, diplomatic approach can expect to be shunted aside and derided as unpatriotic weaklings.
A new vision is needed and our best chance is to elect a Democratic majority to Congress this November. It will be a difficult task, since the cards are stacked against us, but we must do everything in our power to make it a reality. And if another election is stolen, maybe this time we will be able to prove it. It's sad that we're already grasping at straws, even as the future of the country and the world is at stake. Let's unite in a common belief in the principles our nation was founded on and show that the American people are stronger than one political party's tactics. All the people of the world depend on a change of course, whether they realize it or not. We must rise above partisanship and seek a higher ideal that can prevail over tyranny and deliver lasting peace not just to our allies but to our so-called enemies as well. Only then can the promise of a true community of nations be fulfilled.
Sources:
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/0731-29.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/0731-28.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/0731-25.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/0731-26.htm
A hidden side to the current conflict in Lebanon is the increased violence occurring in Gaza directed at the Palestinians. This crucial aspect will never be solved without the creation of a Palestinian state and the subsequent recognition of Israel's right to exist. A full-fledged war is certainly not the way to accomplish such a resolution. It appeared for a time that peace was finally possible, but events have assured the tenuousness of any ceasefire. That doesn't mean that we should stop calling for a cessation of hostilities until it can be lasting as the administration suggests. A continuation of the assault on Lebanon and Gaza will only delay an end to the destruction it claims to be responding to. It's time for the U.S. to show the kind of diplomacy that the Bush administration has repeatedly shown it is incapable of. Instead, this administration seems hell-bent on another major war to help it achieve its still unfinished goals. It's clear that they would actually welcome another World War, thus solidifying George W.'s "War President" legacy.
All of this is part of the plan to eventually engage Iran and Syria in a fight for control of the Middle East. Already the mainstream media has been touting allegations that Iran might be behind some of the terrorism directed at Israel. Headlines have been planted everywhere in the press in an effort to convince the public that action is necessary to eliminate the threat. Of course, the threat can never be completely eliminated and any military force used against Iran in particular will only exacerbate tensions. Unfortunately for us, any escalation plays into the Bush administration's hands and will just give them all the justification they think they need to prove their case that war is necessary to the American people and the world. The majority won't buy it, but that won't matter to the crowd in charge; they feel they can do whatever they want with impunity. Those in favor of a peaceful, diplomatic approach can expect to be shunted aside and derided as unpatriotic weaklings.
A new vision is needed and our best chance is to elect a Democratic majority to Congress this November. It will be a difficult task, since the cards are stacked against us, but we must do everything in our power to make it a reality. And if another election is stolen, maybe this time we will be able to prove it. It's sad that we're already grasping at straws, even as the future of the country and the world is at stake. Let's unite in a common belief in the principles our nation was founded on and show that the American people are stronger than one political party's tactics. All the people of the world depend on a change of course, whether they realize it or not. We must rise above partisanship and seek a higher ideal that can prevail over tyranny and deliver lasting peace not just to our allies but to our so-called enemies as well. Only then can the promise of a true community of nations be fulfilled.
Sources:
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/0731-29.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/0731-28.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/0731-25.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/0731-26.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/0730-26.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/headlines06/0729-02.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/0730-23.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/0729-24.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/0729-27.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/0727-28.htm
Friday, June 30, 2006
Election Imperative
The nation is heading for a watershed election and we still have unverifiable voting machines in place and voter intimidation tactics kicking into full gear. In this chaotic environment it is unclear whether the will of the people will be heard or if these sort of shenanigans will again be allowed to effect the results. It is unconscionable that in this day and age we should still not be sure that our votes are being counted as cast. It is said repeatedly by pundits and others that it can't be proved that our elections are being stolen, and yet the absence of proof that the system is transparent is the exact cause for the failure. The onus should be on the government to guarantee that elections are fair and not on its constituents. Voters must have complete confidence in the tallying system, and that can only be obtained by removing private firms from the process and reinstituting public ownership.
If we are to accomplish what they say we cannot, we need to retrieve all relevant data from myriad sources. Immediate action is imperative because the voting machines used in the 2004 presidential elections can be legally wiped clean this November, thus destroying much of the hard evidence forever. The machines are currently locked down, but all of their information needs to be transferred to permanent storage mediums, and then accessed to finally determine if they were tampered with or not. This should be standard proceedure under any circumstances, just for security purposes. Besides the "losers" right to surety in defeat, you would think that the "winners" would want irrefutable proof that they won, too. Of course, in this case, there is no way to calculate the effect of rampant suppression of the minority vote, including the shortage of voting machines in heavily Democratic precincts that created unprecedented lines producing waits averaging three hours or more. Anyone who was there or has seen the video footage of Ohio cannot doubt that democracy was subverted.
A combination of old-fashioned voter-roll purging, unprecedented chaos (Florida 2000 notwithstanding), and recent touch-screen technology has allowed the manipulation of the inalienable right entrenched in the Constitution and the Voting Rights Act to vote for the candidates of our choice. The introduction of so-called "provisional" ballots that are often not even counted until after the winner has been "decided" has disturbed the basic ritual of election day. No registered voter should have to vote provisionally in the United States of America or anywhere on Earth for that matter. It's a disgrace that in 2004 there were over 100,000 of them in Ohio (nearly the difference in the race) that had to be held for a waiting period of 12 days before counting, while John Kerry was forced to concede. This kind of travesty needs to be rectified immediately. Additionally, there are credible reports of votes switching from one candidate to another electronically right before the eyes of the voters (all in one direction, by the way). These tactics should simply be unacceptable no matter which party benefits.
It is impossible to reverse the damage that has already been done in our name both domestically and on the world stage under such egregiously false pretenses. However, we can still attempt to halt the dissolution of our republic before any further crimes are committed. The problems are so pervasive, though, that it's difficult to know where to begin fixing them. A full investigation by Congress complete with hearings would be a start, but there has been a reluctance to review the 2004 election not only by those in the Republican majority, but by many Democrats as well. The scandal if the truth were really to come out would be devastating to the reputation of our country as a beacon of fairness and liberty; maybe that's why there has been so little political will to address the issue. However, even if politicians don't want to expose the theft of our democracy, they should at least move to eliminate the threat before it proceeds any further.
The only equitable solution to this ongoing disaster is to implement mail-in elections nationwide. This would shatter the monopoly of private companies profiting from the decimation of our election system and restore voter confidence at the same time. Mail-in voting has been employed exclusively in Oregon for many years now without a glitch. There is an instant paper-trail in case a recount is required due to a tight race, and the pitfalls of electronic voting are avoided entirely. Also, there are no long lines to encounter, and absentee or provisional ballot controversies become non-existent. Many special interests don't want a fair system and will resist such a plan with all the money at their disposal; they must be ignored. Nothing less than the American experiment itself is at stake, and along with it, the fate of the rest of the world.
Sources:
If we are to accomplish what they say we cannot, we need to retrieve all relevant data from myriad sources. Immediate action is imperative because the voting machines used in the 2004 presidential elections can be legally wiped clean this November, thus destroying much of the hard evidence forever. The machines are currently locked down, but all of their information needs to be transferred to permanent storage mediums, and then accessed to finally determine if they were tampered with or not. This should be standard proceedure under any circumstances, just for security purposes. Besides the "losers" right to surety in defeat, you would think that the "winners" would want irrefutable proof that they won, too. Of course, in this case, there is no way to calculate the effect of rampant suppression of the minority vote, including the shortage of voting machines in heavily Democratic precincts that created unprecedented lines producing waits averaging three hours or more. Anyone who was there or has seen the video footage of Ohio cannot doubt that democracy was subverted.
A combination of old-fashioned voter-roll purging, unprecedented chaos (Florida 2000 notwithstanding), and recent touch-screen technology has allowed the manipulation of the inalienable right entrenched in the Constitution and the Voting Rights Act to vote for the candidates of our choice. The introduction of so-called "provisional" ballots that are often not even counted until after the winner has been "decided" has disturbed the basic ritual of election day. No registered voter should have to vote provisionally in the United States of America or anywhere on Earth for that matter. It's a disgrace that in 2004 there were over 100,000 of them in Ohio (nearly the difference in the race) that had to be held for a waiting period of 12 days before counting, while John Kerry was forced to concede. This kind of travesty needs to be rectified immediately. Additionally, there are credible reports of votes switching from one candidate to another electronically right before the eyes of the voters (all in one direction, by the way). These tactics should simply be unacceptable no matter which party benefits.
It is impossible to reverse the damage that has already been done in our name both domestically and on the world stage under such egregiously false pretenses. However, we can still attempt to halt the dissolution of our republic before any further crimes are committed. The problems are so pervasive, though, that it's difficult to know where to begin fixing them. A full investigation by Congress complete with hearings would be a start, but there has been a reluctance to review the 2004 election not only by those in the Republican majority, but by many Democrats as well. The scandal if the truth were really to come out would be devastating to the reputation of our country as a beacon of fairness and liberty; maybe that's why there has been so little political will to address the issue. However, even if politicians don't want to expose the theft of our democracy, they should at least move to eliminate the threat before it proceeds any further.
The only equitable solution to this ongoing disaster is to implement mail-in elections nationwide. This would shatter the monopoly of private companies profiting from the decimation of our election system and restore voter confidence at the same time. Mail-in voting has been employed exclusively in Oregon for many years now without a glitch. There is an instant paper-trail in case a recount is required due to a tight race, and the pitfalls of electronic voting are avoided entirely. Also, there are no long lines to encounter, and absentee or provisional ballot controversies become non-existent. Many special interests don't want a fair system and will resist such a plan with all the money at their disposal; they must be ignored. Nothing less than the American experiment itself is at stake, and along with it, the fate of the rest of the world.
Sources:
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/0601-34.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/0621-20.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/0626-21.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/0629-31.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/0701-23.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/0704-27.htm
Wednesday, May 31, 2006
Nuclear Standoff
A major event occurred a couple weeks ago in Oregon that received little national coverage. It's not surprising, since it concerns a topic that the corporate media wants to keep under wraps. On May 21, 2006, the Trojan Nuclear Power Plant had its cooling tower successfully imploded in the largest demolition of its kind ever attempted. This plant was decommissioned thirteen years ago after a steam generator tube leaked radioactive water just a week after the third attempt to close it was defeated at the ballot box. The public was stuck with the bill in a decision that was eventually reversed in a victory for rate-payers, but only after they were tagged for the original cost and more. In fact, customers are still paying for it while the ruling is being appealed.
Nuclear power has long since reached its nadir in this country, yet the Bush administration appears hell-bent on reinvigorating it, while at the same time insisting that nations like Iran desist from all such activity. If our government truly wants disarmament, then why not suggest that Iran invest in solar and wind energy instead and offer to help implement them. We could halt our own plans to build twelve new nuclear plants in the United States due to go online in 2014 as a show of good faith. The world might stop calling us hypocrites on this issue and we would be honoring the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty that we signed. No weapons can be constructed from these resources, and the power derived can be renewed indefinitely without harming the environment.
In typical fashion, the administration uses the crisis it has itself denied and exacerbated in order to achieve its goals. Pollution caused by fossil fuels and the refusal to combat it are behind the current push for nuclear power. A headlong rush backwards that they believe is progress is depriving innocent people of a chance to live in an uncontaminated world, and its being done for short-term financial gain. The argument that safer nuclear plants can be constructed ignores the essentially permanent toxic-waste problem that has never been solved. Strong condemnation of this destructive course is imperative to protect the viability of the planet. Conservation and alternative sources must be combined to ensure an equitable balance between needs and sustainability.
Both the U.S. and Great Britain have an opportunity to lead here and regain some of the respect they have lost in the last five years among the international community. However, it is unlikely that significant progress can be made while the current president and prime minister, respectively, are still in power. The world needs leaders who are willing to move beyond the previous paradigm and create a new vision consisting of constructive solutions. Failure to accomplish this will have catastrophic effects on the future of mankind, as already evidenced by the proven fact of global warming. Increasing natural disasters threaten the survival of all living things on Earth. Only by working together can we achieve the common goal of restoring the unity that peaceful co-existence with nature promises.
Sources:
http://www.cnn.com/2006/US/05/21/oregon.nukeplantimplosion.ap/
http://www.commondreams.org/headlines06/0531-01.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/0531-29.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/headlines06/0531-10.htm
http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/photogalleries/localnews1240/1.html
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trojan_Nuclear_Power_Plant
Nuclear power has long since reached its nadir in this country, yet the Bush administration appears hell-bent on reinvigorating it, while at the same time insisting that nations like Iran desist from all such activity. If our government truly wants disarmament, then why not suggest that Iran invest in solar and wind energy instead and offer to help implement them. We could halt our own plans to build twelve new nuclear plants in the United States due to go online in 2014 as a show of good faith. The world might stop calling us hypocrites on this issue and we would be honoring the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty that we signed. No weapons can be constructed from these resources, and the power derived can be renewed indefinitely without harming the environment.
In typical fashion, the administration uses the crisis it has itself denied and exacerbated in order to achieve its goals. Pollution caused by fossil fuels and the refusal to combat it are behind the current push for nuclear power. A headlong rush backwards that they believe is progress is depriving innocent people of a chance to live in an uncontaminated world, and its being done for short-term financial gain. The argument that safer nuclear plants can be constructed ignores the essentially permanent toxic-waste problem that has never been solved. Strong condemnation of this destructive course is imperative to protect the viability of the planet. Conservation and alternative sources must be combined to ensure an equitable balance between needs and sustainability.
Both the U.S. and Great Britain have an opportunity to lead here and regain some of the respect they have lost in the last five years among the international community. However, it is unlikely that significant progress can be made while the current president and prime minister, respectively, are still in power. The world needs leaders who are willing to move beyond the previous paradigm and create a new vision consisting of constructive solutions. Failure to accomplish this will have catastrophic effects on the future of mankind, as already evidenced by the proven fact of global warming. Increasing natural disasters threaten the survival of all living things on Earth. Only by working together can we achieve the common goal of restoring the unity that peaceful co-existence with nature promises.
Sources:
http://www.cnn.com/2006/US/05/21/oregon.nukeplantimplosion.ap/
http://www.commondreams.org/headlines06/0531-01.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/0531-29.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/headlines06/0531-10.htm
http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/photogalleries/localnews1240/1.html
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trojan_Nuclear_Power_Plant
Sunday, April 30, 2006
Iran Again
The rattling of sabers has intensified, leaving little doubt that President Bush will ignore the United Nations if they don't go along with the push for a war with Iran. An artificial demand for Iran to renounce all nuclear ambitions threatens to increase tensions unnecessarily, because the call for sanctions goes beyond the reach of treaties signed in good faith. The United States needs to tone down their rhetoric if they truly want a peaceful solution, otherwise they are the ones that should be referred to the U.N. Security Council. Recent bluster from President Ahmadinejad of Iran is not the same as an attack on America and does not require a military response. A preemptive strike is still illegal under international law and even if we succeed is eliminating Iran's current nuclear capabilities, retaliation in the form of real terror could destabilize the whole world.
Ahmadinejad has not helped the situation by continuing to make wild threats, but apparently he has been misquoted with an inaccurate translation of his ubiquitous remark that "Israel be wiped off the map." The actual quote is more like "the occupation regime" must "vanish." Nearly every report in the corporate media includes this misinterpretation, along with giving the false impression that Iran is in violation of the Nuclear Proliferation Treaty. No wonder many Americans think Iran is an immediate threat, though they are five or ten years away from having the capability of producing a bomb. In fact, they have actually called for a nuclear weapon freeze in the Middle East.
The truth is that Iran is not in violation of the treaty; domestic nuclear power is allowed under its guidelines. It is the United States and some of our allies that are in violation; Israel has refused to even sign it. America has a right to protect itself and its allies, but not to initiate war, especially without proof of a threat. We already saw the results of this dogma in Iraq; the world couldn't withstand a rerun. Even if we don't like it, Iran has the right to pursue limited nuclear power for civilian use as long as they agree to resume inspections in order to prove peaceful intentions. They have made this offer, but it has already been rejected out of hand by the U.S. ambassador; so much for diplomacy.
Denying Iran this chance would set a precedent for withdrawal from the treaty itself. Maybe that's what the Bush administration wants in order to have an excuse for invasion. Acquiring Iran's oil and natural gas has long been part of the neo-conservative plan, hatched even before the "election" in 2000. But the moment they start to achieve their goals it would become a free-for-all with no solution, except endless destruction. If the U.S. will not back down, World War 3 is imminent. Russia and China would take sides, and the battle for resources would begin. The only alternative is a recognition of our mutual goals and the search for other solutions.
The so-called mainstream media is apparently oblivious to the irony (or insanity) of using nuclear weapons to eliminate another countries nuclear facilities. They also never mention the fact that these "tactical warheads" or "mini-nukes" the U.S. is prepared to use in a strike on Iran are illegal under international and domestic law. Research was approved but not the building of these weapons in 2003. If the administration has implemented the construction of these bombs, then they are violating a law established by Congress. Of course they have shown that they believe laws and the Constitution itself are to be swept aside if need be. This position is beyond the scope of executive power and needs to be reined in before anymore damage is done.
Nuclear power would be better left alone in favor of solar and wind, but if it is contemplated against all advice, it must be safeguarded and the U.S. needs to be the leader here. Unfortunately, America may need a regime change before a sane energy policy can be formed. Misuse of the military as the answer for everything needs to stop, and international relations repaired. Careful diplomacy is not the strong point of the current administration, and the world is worse off for it. The mid-term Congressional elections can't come soon enough to begin providing a check on an out of control executive branch. The absurdity of unreliable and hackable voting machines must be overcome, of course, but for now an election where Democrats are expected to win is our best hope for change. Maybe the rest of the nation will come to their senses soon enough to avert another war, because it's in the best interests of the U.S. and the world.
Sources:
http://www.commondreams.org/headlines06/0502-02.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/0501-29.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/0430-22.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/0430-27.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/0429-21.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/0428-21.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/0419-22.htm
Ahmadinejad has not helped the situation by continuing to make wild threats, but apparently he has been misquoted with an inaccurate translation of his ubiquitous remark that "Israel be wiped off the map." The actual quote is more like "the occupation regime" must "vanish." Nearly every report in the corporate media includes this misinterpretation, along with giving the false impression that Iran is in violation of the Nuclear Proliferation Treaty. No wonder many Americans think Iran is an immediate threat, though they are five or ten years away from having the capability of producing a bomb. In fact, they have actually called for a nuclear weapon freeze in the Middle East.
The truth is that Iran is not in violation of the treaty; domestic nuclear power is allowed under its guidelines. It is the United States and some of our allies that are in violation; Israel has refused to even sign it. America has a right to protect itself and its allies, but not to initiate war, especially without proof of a threat. We already saw the results of this dogma in Iraq; the world couldn't withstand a rerun. Even if we don't like it, Iran has the right to pursue limited nuclear power for civilian use as long as they agree to resume inspections in order to prove peaceful intentions. They have made this offer, but it has already been rejected out of hand by the U.S. ambassador; so much for diplomacy.
Denying Iran this chance would set a precedent for withdrawal from the treaty itself. Maybe that's what the Bush administration wants in order to have an excuse for invasion. Acquiring Iran's oil and natural gas has long been part of the neo-conservative plan, hatched even before the "election" in 2000. But the moment they start to achieve their goals it would become a free-for-all with no solution, except endless destruction. If the U.S. will not back down, World War 3 is imminent. Russia and China would take sides, and the battle for resources would begin. The only alternative is a recognition of our mutual goals and the search for other solutions.
The so-called mainstream media is apparently oblivious to the irony (or insanity) of using nuclear weapons to eliminate another countries nuclear facilities. They also never mention the fact that these "tactical warheads" or "mini-nukes" the U.S. is prepared to use in a strike on Iran are illegal under international and domestic law. Research was approved but not the building of these weapons in 2003. If the administration has implemented the construction of these bombs, then they are violating a law established by Congress. Of course they have shown that they believe laws and the Constitution itself are to be swept aside if need be. This position is beyond the scope of executive power and needs to be reined in before anymore damage is done.
Nuclear power would be better left alone in favor of solar and wind, but if it is contemplated against all advice, it must be safeguarded and the U.S. needs to be the leader here. Unfortunately, America may need a regime change before a sane energy policy can be formed. Misuse of the military as the answer for everything needs to stop, and international relations repaired. Careful diplomacy is not the strong point of the current administration, and the world is worse off for it. The mid-term Congressional elections can't come soon enough to begin providing a check on an out of control executive branch. The absurdity of unreliable and hackable voting machines must be overcome, of course, but for now an election where Democrats are expected to win is our best hope for change. Maybe the rest of the nation will come to their senses soon enough to avert another war, because it's in the best interests of the U.S. and the world.
Sources:
http://www.commondreams.org/headlines06/0502-02.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/0501-29.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/0430-22.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/0430-27.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/0429-21.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/0428-21.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/0419-22.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/0419-23.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/0419-26.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/0419-30.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/headlines06/0419-06.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/0418-25.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/0417-23.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/0416-21.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/0414-20.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/0414-31.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/0413-23.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/0413-25.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/0412-25.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/0411-31.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/0410-26.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/0406-20.htm
http://www.editorandpublisher.com/eandp/columns/pressingissues_display.jsp?vnu_content_id=1002383107
http://www.greeninstitute.net/press.asp?rls_id=320&cat_id=41
http://www.newscientist.com/article/mg18024220.200.html
http://www.newyorker.com/printables/fact/060417fa_fact
http://sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/gate/archive/2006/04/19/notes041906.DTL&nl=fix
http://www.usatoday.com/news/washington/2006-04-14-iran-nukes_x.htm
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20060501/ap_on_re_mi_ea/iran_nuclear
http://www.zmag.org/content/print_article.cfm?itemID=9929
Friday, March 31, 2006
Censure Resolution
Senator Russ Feingold's introduction of a censure resolution to Congress is remarkable for the press it got, considering that Rep. John Conyers called for similar action in the House of Representatives last year to little fanfare. It seems the possibility Feingold might run for president in 2008 makes this news, even as his critics accuse him of grandstanding to get attention for just such an endeavor. Many Democrats are distancing themselves from taking a stand against President Bush's alleged illegal activities for fear of being labeled "weak on terror," or are cautious of election-year dynamics. They are forgetting that it's Congress' job to provide oversight of the president, and this duty is abrogated if any of these excuses are used. Republican cries of partisanship are particularly specious, considering the partisan nature of nearly every proposal they make.
The truth is that Sen. Feingold is right, the laws regarding surveillance has obviously been broken; it's only a matter of to what extent. The so-called "investigation" into finding out the extent of the spying program has essentially been called off in favor of changing the law to fit the crime. This in itself is an admission that the president overstepped his power. Sen. Arlen Spector, chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee has begun a panel to study the situation mainly to give the president cover. The Censure resolution will probably fail this time due to harsh political realities, and because opponents would like to force a vote before real debate occurs. However, Senators showing some backbone can only help their stature in the minds of wavering Democrats and Independents alike. It could even help them with Republicans who still hold the rule of law and the Constitution above party loyalty.
The Fourth Amendment guarantee against unreasonable search and seizure has clearly been usurped by the administration, and no tinkering with the Federal Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) can save it. The current law established in 1978 states that a warrant must be obtained from the FISA court before performing domestic surveillance, except in emergencies where it can be accomplished retroactively within 72 hours, or 15 days during wartime. Note that it is required even under extraordinary circumstances; this is one of the foundations of our republic. Our freedoms cannot simply be taken away by executive order. If the president is not held accountable for violating this principle, we have begun to vacate the democracy our fore-fathers sacrificed to invent.
The only precedent for censure of an American president so far was Andrew Jackson in 1834 for removing the nation's funds from the bank in order to defy the opposition party that controlled the Senate. It's a largely symbolic gesture that amounts to a hard slap on the wrist, and is mild compared to what may ultimately be needed here. Even this remedy alone, though, would be extremely difficult for the current administration to accept, especially since they are grievously averse to the slightest criticism, and because any accountability whatsoever would be such big news. Such a step could be perceived as devastating to the reputation of the President's party during the midterm elections, propaganda planted in the mainstream press notwithstanding. The Republican line that any talk of censure or impeachment would hurt the Democrats instead is merely what they would like us to think, and those that fall for it and stop calling for the procedures required by the Constitution are just playing into their hands.
Few other presidents in U.S. history, if any, are more deserving of reproach than this one; not only the long list of impeachable scandals, but the long-term damage to the country and the world that they entail. The destruction wreaked on basic American interests and ideals may never be fully repaired, or even forgotten many centuries from now. Certainly the lives lost in Iraq can never be recovered or the unnecessary suffering of its people under our occupation undone. The answer must be a complete reversal of the Bush administration agenda as a whole and a new direction for the country. The coming mid-term elections offer the best hope of beginning to achieve this, if we can overcome electronic tabulation of our votes. In the meantime a national debate over censure can help foster the change that needs to occur. It may take years, but everyone in Congress that finds the strength to speak out against tyranny now will eventually be rewarded.
Sources:
The truth is that Sen. Feingold is right, the laws regarding surveillance has obviously been broken; it's only a matter of to what extent. The so-called "investigation" into finding out the extent of the spying program has essentially been called off in favor of changing the law to fit the crime. This in itself is an admission that the president overstepped his power. Sen. Arlen Spector, chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee has begun a panel to study the situation mainly to give the president cover. The Censure resolution will probably fail this time due to harsh political realities, and because opponents would like to force a vote before real debate occurs. However, Senators showing some backbone can only help their stature in the minds of wavering Democrats and Independents alike. It could even help them with Republicans who still hold the rule of law and the Constitution above party loyalty.
The Fourth Amendment guarantee against unreasonable search and seizure has clearly been usurped by the administration, and no tinkering with the Federal Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) can save it. The current law established in 1978 states that a warrant must be obtained from the FISA court before performing domestic surveillance, except in emergencies where it can be accomplished retroactively within 72 hours, or 15 days during wartime. Note that it is required even under extraordinary circumstances; this is one of the foundations of our republic. Our freedoms cannot simply be taken away by executive order. If the president is not held accountable for violating this principle, we have begun to vacate the democracy our fore-fathers sacrificed to invent.
The only precedent for censure of an American president so far was Andrew Jackson in 1834 for removing the nation's funds from the bank in order to defy the opposition party that controlled the Senate. It's a largely symbolic gesture that amounts to a hard slap on the wrist, and is mild compared to what may ultimately be needed here. Even this remedy alone, though, would be extremely difficult for the current administration to accept, especially since they are grievously averse to the slightest criticism, and because any accountability whatsoever would be such big news. Such a step could be perceived as devastating to the reputation of the President's party during the midterm elections, propaganda planted in the mainstream press notwithstanding. The Republican line that any talk of censure or impeachment would hurt the Democrats instead is merely what they would like us to think, and those that fall for it and stop calling for the procedures required by the Constitution are just playing into their hands.
Few other presidents in U.S. history, if any, are more deserving of reproach than this one; not only the long list of impeachable scandals, but the long-term damage to the country and the world that they entail. The destruction wreaked on basic American interests and ideals may never be fully repaired, or even forgotten many centuries from now. Certainly the lives lost in Iraq can never be recovered or the unnecessary suffering of its people under our occupation undone. The answer must be a complete reversal of the Bush administration agenda as a whole and a new direction for the country. The coming mid-term elections offer the best hope of beginning to achieve this, if we can overcome electronic tabulation of our votes. In the meantime a national debate over censure can help foster the change that needs to occur. It may take years, but everyone in Congress that finds the strength to speak out against tyranny now will eventually be rewarded.
Sources:
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/0313-36.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/0331-31.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/0330-27.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/0330-28.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/0313-24.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/0315-26.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/0315-33.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/0319-24.htm
http://www.fas.org/irp/agency/doj/fisa/
http://www4.law.cornell.edu/uscode/html/uscode50/usc_sup_01_50_10_36.html
http://www4.law.cornell.edu/uscode/html/uscode50/usc_sec_50_00001802----000-.html
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/12093379/
http://www.tompaine.com/articles/2006/03/30/the_gops_stake_in_checking_the_president.php
Tuesday, February 28, 2006
Constitutional Crisis
We are now entering the crisis the founders of our nation hoped to avoid when they wrote the Constitution of the United States. In spying on Americans without first obtaining a warrant, President George W. Bush has not only violated the Federal Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA), but one of the benchmark documents of our republic; specifically, 4th Amendment protections against unreasonable search and seizure. This is one of the most basic tenets of our government and no exception is provided in time of war. In point of fact, the Revolutionary War was fought to establish these rights, and they cannot be taken away by fiat. The powers Bush claims simply don't exist in Article 2, section 2, and can't be granted by Congress. Either a new Amendment bolstering his case needs to be ratified by all 50 states, or the president needs to be impeached under Article 2, section 4. These are the remedies available in the Constitution itself, and only impeachment retains our liberties intact.
Instead, the Senate Intelligence Committee wants to simply make a cosmetic change to FISA rather than investigate wrongdoing by the administration. That's no surprise, but it is emblematic of the legislative vacuity threatening the separation of powers in the U.S. When responsibility is abdicated for sheer political reasons, democracy is injured irreparably. At first, there were bipartisan calls for Congressional hearings on domestic wiretapping. But after an obligatory browbeating by Vice President Dick Cheney, most Republican Senators have decided to acquiesce to the White House rather than risk losing support in the coming election. No matter how weak the Bush administration may appear at times, they are still capable of gross intimidation and are not beyond manipulating results to their advantage. Liberals are often accused of "hating" Bush and everything he proposes (a syndrome caused, ironically, by Bush himself), yet the accusers are guilty of a blind allegiance that dismisses all criticism.
The list of scandals Bush and Cheney should be tried for by Congress is almost too long to cover in a single article. Unbelievably, this plays to the administration's advantage. Where does one begin? There are the devastating failures (or conspiracies, if you follow the evidence) on 9/11 and their imperfect cover-up; this undeniably catastrophic event conveniently laid the groundwork for achieving goals clearly delineated beforehand. Then we have the outright deceptions that hurtled us into the Iraq war. Leaking the identity of a CIA agent in order to retaliate against a critic, and thereby jeopardizing national security. Quite blatantly stealing another "election." The torture of prisoners. Illegal surveillance. Lying to Congress in order to start or defend wars, pass bills (such as Medicare reform), or to keep from being investigated. These are just the impeachable offenses. We are of course stuck with the dubious Supreme Court decision that installed Bush in the first place. Equally egregious is the dereliction of duty during Hurricane Katrina, and the obfuscation of the science behind global warming; both interrelated.
These are dark times for our republic, and unfortunately no end is in sight. We can expect an attack on Iran in the near future in order fulfill the next-step in the long-range plan to secure Middle Eastern resources (oil and natural gas). This would also provide a timely distraction from pesky investigators demanding accountability, with all the problems of the administration summarily pushed aside in favor of a debate on Iran. Democrats running for Congress would be forced to support the war or be labeled weak on terrorism, just like in 2002. Republicans will not hesitate to attempt a rerun of their previous success (if it can be called that), and the onslaught would be difficult to overcome, mostly because they still control the electronic voting machines that should have been decertified years ago. It will actually be surprising under these circumstances if they not only don't lose control of either or both Houses of Congress, but gain the 5 Senate seats they need to shut down all debate.
The only remaining way to preserve a true democracy in America is to halt electronic voting until the technology can be independently verified. This is astonishingly unlikely in the current political climate; in fact the opposite is already happening. More machines are being implemented nationwide without oversight. Unless this trend is reversed, we are at the mercy of an unstoppable force that is close to unprecedented dominance. Only a comparison to previous regimes that we considered our arch-enemies can do justice to the breathtaking power our government is on the verge of attaining. Czechoslovakia and then Poland were invaded when the people of Germany became restless and started questioning government policies one year after Austria was conquered. All three countries were ostensibly harboring "terrorists." The parallels are astonishing, and anyone that doesn't believe this should research the beginnings of World War 2. We swore "never again," but history usually finds a way to repeat itself. Only education can save us now, and we face an uphill battle against encroaching propaganda. We'll find out if a shred of real freedom is left to uphold or protect us in the months and years ahead.
Sources:
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/0217-26.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/0226-21.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/0218-28.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/0218-27.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/0207-35.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/0201-28.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/0221-32.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views03/0316-08.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views03/0321-07.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views05/0222-22.htm
http://www.cooperativeresearch.org/index.jsp
http://harpers.org/TheCaseForImpeachment.html
http://www.informationclearinghouse.info/article11946.htm
http://rawstory.com/news/2005/Outed_CIA_officer_was_working_on_0213.html
http://www.septembereleventh.org/newsarchive/2005-07-29-pressclub.php
http://www.truthout.org/docs_2006/021006A.shtml
http://www.truthout.org/docs_2006/021906Y.shtml
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/02/09/AR2006020902418.html
Tuesday, January 31, 2006
Iranian Oil
Nearly every day we have another news item about Iran and it's purported nuclear ambitions. The corporate media continually parrots White House talking points in an obvious attempt to prop up the inevitable invasion of Iran. What needs to be understood is that this has been part of the plan all along, beginning with Afghanistan, extending to Iraq, and now we've arrived at the next phase. Iran is the second biggest producer of oil in the world after Saudi Arabia; Iraq is third. The factions currently in power in the United States have had their eye on controlling all three sources, plus the Afghan pipeline, for over a decade. It could be argued that it is in America's interest to achieve supremacy in the Middle East, but a better case could be made for sheer diplomacy instead of the course we have taken (not to mention the necessity of developing alternative fuels).
Our own National Intelligence Estimate (NIE) puts Iran five or ten years away from accomplishing nuclear fission, much less an implosive device. They do have conventional missiles which they have threatened to employ if attacked, though it would be unreasonable to contend that they don't have the right to defend themselves. An invasion by either the United States or Israel would be yet another preemptive strike illegal under international law. Besides, with the U.S. military already stretched thin, there would be resistance even from within to such a provocative move. We can't afford another repeat of the Iraq debacle; an expansion of hostilities would destabilize any hope of a peaceful resolution to the current occupation, and with China and Russia supporting Iran, it might precipitate the beginning of World War 3.
Perhaps this would be a good time for America to truly lead, by honoring the anti-proliferation treaties we've signed, and providing a better example to other nations. We should be offering to build wind-farms and solar-cell factories in Iran and Iraq (and other countries), instead of intimidating them over dangerous nuclear ambitions that we haven't abandoned ourselves. A major sea-change is necessary for these questions to be resolved adequately, and it starts with our government. We have a chance to make a difference if we seize the moment and make a commitment to renewable energy. The truth is, no one really needs nuclear power, and the quicker wind and solar capabilities can be implemented worldwide, the safer everyone will be. This the position we should be taking, and it's the only path to a brighter future.
Meanwhile, one of the reasons for our continued presence in Iraq is simply positioning for the next escalation. That's partly why we're unlikely to leave no matter how much people protest. Possession of Iran's oil is the coup de grace for America's imperialist ambitions, and once this is achieved, our goal of controlling all major oil sources in the Middle East will be complete. It will be a painful adjustment for the world, but the juggernaut is already on the way, and there is not much that can be done to stop it. Only U.S. withdrawal from the region and a newfound respect for the sovereignty of other nations can establish the precedent needed to create stability.
Referral of Iran to the U.N. Security Council for alleged nuclear warhead development is an action long desired by the Bush administration as a way to force the issue until it becomes untenable. Iran could diffuse the situation by backing down on threats to disallow International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) inspections and restart its (ostensibly domestic) nuclear program. These measures are precisely the opposite of the referral's purpose, and only increase the chances of an impasse. Negotiation is still an option for the moment, though it would require good faith by all sides, and a mutual desire for peace.
An aspect that has been mostly absent from press coverage is the monetary change going into effect on March 20, when Iran intends to switch to euros in lieu of dollars for oil. It would be exceedingly disadvantageous to the U.S. if this occurs, since it stands to disrupt our global monopoly. China, Russia, and other nations have also expressed an interest in going this direction, and that could leave America vulnerable to being called on the debt they are holding for us. If that happens our oil-based economy could collapse, and we would be at the mercy of the rest of the world, instead of the other way around. That's why we're rattling sabers over Iran right now; U.S. dominance is at risk. Maybe if we weren't so arrogant in the first place, these countries wouldn't be so eager to circumvent us.
It should be noted that Saddam Hussein began exchanging euros for oil back in Oct. 2000. This explains the rush to topple Iraq's government at the start of President Bush's first term (well before 9/11). Vice President Cheney's secret Energy Task Force is also properly viewed in this context. It makes sense of the "Mission Accomplished" declaration two months after the invasion; Iraq's oil was once again traded in dollars. It's absolutely vital to corporate interests in the U.S. and Great Britain for dollars to remain the main world currency, and from this perspective it's understandable that Britain is our only significant ally in the war. The so-called mainstream media will not touch this story, as it completely contradicts the official line.
A way out of this mess is practically inconceivable, unless President Bush can be weakened enough at home that he would be unable to initiate the next war. We know from experience, though, that he has never let anything like public opinion, International Law, or our own Constitution stop him. Iran's continued defiance of the U.N. would give our government all the rationale it needs to strike (never mind that we are also in violation over Iraq). If this ploy doesn't work, Dick Cheney has already intimated that we will invade Iran if there were to be another attack in the U.S., whether there is a connection or not. Considering that the Bush administration has done very little to actually protect us, it's unfortunately possible that they will get what they want. All we can do is apply everything in our power to minimize the damage until the country can somehow be set back on course, and hope that it's not too late.
Our own National Intelligence Estimate (NIE) puts Iran five or ten years away from accomplishing nuclear fission, much less an implosive device. They do have conventional missiles which they have threatened to employ if attacked, though it would be unreasonable to contend that they don't have the right to defend themselves. An invasion by either the United States or Israel would be yet another preemptive strike illegal under international law. Besides, with the U.S. military already stretched thin, there would be resistance even from within to such a provocative move. We can't afford another repeat of the Iraq debacle; an expansion of hostilities would destabilize any hope of a peaceful resolution to the current occupation, and with China and Russia supporting Iran, it might precipitate the beginning of World War 3.
Perhaps this would be a good time for America to truly lead, by honoring the anti-proliferation treaties we've signed, and providing a better example to other nations. We should be offering to build wind-farms and solar-cell factories in Iran and Iraq (and other countries), instead of intimidating them over dangerous nuclear ambitions that we haven't abandoned ourselves. A major sea-change is necessary for these questions to be resolved adequately, and it starts with our government. We have a chance to make a difference if we seize the moment and make a commitment to renewable energy. The truth is, no one really needs nuclear power, and the quicker wind and solar capabilities can be implemented worldwide, the safer everyone will be. This the position we should be taking, and it's the only path to a brighter future.
Meanwhile, one of the reasons for our continued presence in Iraq is simply positioning for the next escalation. That's partly why we're unlikely to leave no matter how much people protest. Possession of Iran's oil is the coup de grace for America's imperialist ambitions, and once this is achieved, our goal of controlling all major oil sources in the Middle East will be complete. It will be a painful adjustment for the world, but the juggernaut is already on the way, and there is not much that can be done to stop it. Only U.S. withdrawal from the region and a newfound respect for the sovereignty of other nations can establish the precedent needed to create stability.
Referral of Iran to the U.N. Security Council for alleged nuclear warhead development is an action long desired by the Bush administration as a way to force the issue until it becomes untenable. Iran could diffuse the situation by backing down on threats to disallow International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) inspections and restart its (ostensibly domestic) nuclear program. These measures are precisely the opposite of the referral's purpose, and only increase the chances of an impasse. Negotiation is still an option for the moment, though it would require good faith by all sides, and a mutual desire for peace.
An aspect that has been mostly absent from press coverage is the monetary change going into effect on March 20, when Iran intends to switch to euros in lieu of dollars for oil. It would be exceedingly disadvantageous to the U.S. if this occurs, since it stands to disrupt our global monopoly. China, Russia, and other nations have also expressed an interest in going this direction, and that could leave America vulnerable to being called on the debt they are holding for us. If that happens our oil-based economy could collapse, and we would be at the mercy of the rest of the world, instead of the other way around. That's why we're rattling sabers over Iran right now; U.S. dominance is at risk. Maybe if we weren't so arrogant in the first place, these countries wouldn't be so eager to circumvent us.
It should be noted that Saddam Hussein began exchanging euros for oil back in Oct. 2000. This explains the rush to topple Iraq's government at the start of President Bush's first term (well before 9/11). Vice President Cheney's secret Energy Task Force is also properly viewed in this context. It makes sense of the "Mission Accomplished" declaration two months after the invasion; Iraq's oil was once again traded in dollars. It's absolutely vital to corporate interests in the U.S. and Great Britain for dollars to remain the main world currency, and from this perspective it's understandable that Britain is our only significant ally in the war. The so-called mainstream media will not touch this story, as it completely contradicts the official line.
A way out of this mess is practically inconceivable, unless President Bush can be weakened enough at home that he would be unable to initiate the next war. We know from experience, though, that he has never let anything like public opinion, International Law, or our own Constitution stop him. Iran's continued defiance of the U.N. would give our government all the rationale it needs to strike (never mind that we are also in violation over Iraq). If this ploy doesn't work, Dick Cheney has already intimated that we will invade Iran if there were to be another attack in the U.S., whether there is a connection or not. Considering that the Bush administration has done very little to actually protect us, it's unfortunately possible that they will get what they want. All we can do is apply everything in our power to minimize the damage until the country can somehow be set back on course, and hope that it's not too late.
Sources:
http://business.guardian.co.uk/story/0,3604,1239644,00.html
http://www.commondreams.org/views05/0620-31.htm
http://energybulletin.net/7707.html
http://www.globalresearch.ca/articles/CLA410A.html
http://www.informationclearinghouse.info/article11613.htm
http://politics.guardian.co.uk/iraq/comment/0,12956,1036687,00.html
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