http://money.cnn.com/2013/12/02/news/economy/detroit-ruling-expected/index.html?iid=SF_E_River
Summary:
The city of Detroit has been on a steady decline with crime rates rising and the population and manufacturing production declining. A court ruling is expected to come soon on whether or not the city should be granted bankruptcy and have millions of dollars in debt erased, mostly coming out of the healthcare owed to retirees in the city. Basically every aspect of Detroit is insufficient at the moment including basic city services and the city is under far too much debt to fix it's problems.
Reaction:
I found that it was surprising that a city that was once so prosperous and the face of manufacturing in America could be turned around so quickly. It also seems unfortunate but typical that retired people would have to suffer for this. Detroit seems like it has become nothing to America but a hotbed of debt that is a burden to it's citizens as well as the rest of America. I still think that in the end bankruptcy should be granted despite it's effect on retirees, as the effect it would have on generations to come would be less severe if Detroit's debt is cut.
Connection:
This could be connected to cumbency playing a factor in elections, although politicians in Detroit that are currently in office might actually have less of a chance of being reelected, as the awful state of the city would reflect on their decisions while in office.
Tuesday, December 3, 2013
Maya D- National Security 1
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/06/07/obama-national-security_n_3401808.html
Summary- This article directly compares Obama's policies while he's been in office to those of George W. Bush's. While running for president Obama was known for his views on foreign policy, the treatment of prisoners of war, and his need to take our troops out of Iraq. Nowadays though, he seems focused on the war on terror more than anything else even if it means using facts that Bush himself came up with. Many of Obama's new foreign policies rely on the The Patriot Act and the usage of drones that was put into place by Bush. This seems contradicting to what the people elected him on originally on especially since it seems to be the only thing that the president is preoccupied with.
Reaction- I thought that this article had good points about the likenesses between Obama and Bush that I never noticed before. While they do have some of their policy concepts in common I don't think that that changes the views that Obama had originally. Once in office he used parts of Bush's policies before him and used them to create something that would now help the country more than it had before. Also,I see the the idea that the president is only bothering to take part in the war on terror as ridiculous. Because of the era that he was elected in it is a given that one of the main things he plans of fixing is our protection against terrorists. Saying that that's all he cares about is like saying that FDR only cared about the world war when, at the time, that was one of the most important things going on.
Connection- This connects to how we're talking about what powers the president has. Since the President has final say of the military it would make sense that a lot of the policies he's making have to to with that. Also, congress has the power to try and change a presidents policy if they believe it is wrong or unconstitutional. Since this has not happened in congress yet it is pretty safe to say that those in congress agree at least partially with what the president is doing over seas because they have not disputed him even though they have the power to.
Summary- This article directly compares Obama's policies while he's been in office to those of George W. Bush's. While running for president Obama was known for his views on foreign policy, the treatment of prisoners of war, and his need to take our troops out of Iraq. Nowadays though, he seems focused on the war on terror more than anything else even if it means using facts that Bush himself came up with. Many of Obama's new foreign policies rely on the The Patriot Act and the usage of drones that was put into place by Bush. This seems contradicting to what the people elected him on originally on especially since it seems to be the only thing that the president is preoccupied with.
Reaction- I thought that this article had good points about the likenesses between Obama and Bush that I never noticed before. While they do have some of their policy concepts in common I don't think that that changes the views that Obama had originally. Once in office he used parts of Bush's policies before him and used them to create something that would now help the country more than it had before. Also,I see the the idea that the president is only bothering to take part in the war on terror as ridiculous. Because of the era that he was elected in it is a given that one of the main things he plans of fixing is our protection against terrorists. Saying that that's all he cares about is like saying that FDR only cared about the world war when, at the time, that was one of the most important things going on.
Connection- This connects to how we're talking about what powers the president has. Since the President has final say of the military it would make sense that a lot of the policies he's making have to to with that. Also, congress has the power to try and change a presidents policy if they believe it is wrong or unconstitutional. Since this has not happened in congress yet it is pretty safe to say that those in congress agree at least partially with what the president is doing over seas because they have not disputed him even though they have the power to.
The Seventh Chuck Klutho I, Economics
Summary: Since 1947 Democratic presidents seem to be more beneficial to the U.S. economy than Republicans. Over that span of time from 1947-Present the average growth of the U.S. economy during Democratic terms is 4.35% and just 2.54 under Republican presidents. This large gap maybe due to Democrats policies being more beneficial towards economic growth or that Republicans have better economic policies, but that there is a time delay and so the Democrats reap the benefits. Another very possible explanation is that they have nothing to do with it at all. In reality the presidents and congress may have a tough time controlling America's economic growth. One part of this theory is based on oil spikes, and the sharp inclines and declines of the price of crude oil that can strike and can be difficult to control. Based on facts however, reasons the Democratic presidents have higher productivity shocks meaning that people working get more done in terms of products and such, and as a result the economy grows. Another strange thing is that consumer confidence is boosted during the first year(s) of Democratic presidents much more so than Republicans. This consumer confidence boosts spending and helps the economy.
Reaction: I find it curious how the economy grows more under Democratic presidents than Republicans and how it is hard to put real solid numbers on why it happens. It is also weird how much luck may have to do with how the economy can grow, and during which party's term. Lastly I find it difficult to figure out how us as a nation think to make something like the consumer confidence work.
Connection: This can be connected to what we are talking in class through different policies and how they may or may not effect the economy. Also how we have talked about how different parties beliefs affect their policies and also how members of a political party may be influenced by their beliefs and have an effect on the economy both for normal citizens, the president, and congress.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/wonkblog/wp/2013/12/02/the-u-s-economy-does-better-under-democratic-presidents-is-it-just-luck/
Healthcare Bailey Schmidt
http://abcnews.go.com/m/story?id=21076298&ref=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.google.com%2Fm%2Fsearch%3Fpz%3D1%26cf%3Dall%26ned%3Dus%26hl%3Den%26tbs%3Dnws%253A1%26q%3Dhealthcare
Summary: After the fix of the healthcare online registration, mixed reviews are being received. Some users are unable to receive the healthcare because the website crashes mid-application, while others have had absolutely no trouble with the application. The President has aknowleged these glitches and is working to get them fixed.
Connection: This is an example of how not every idea is perfect and the President has to deal with the upset public by listening to their complaints through linkage institutions such as social media.
Reaction: The first time the website crashed it was almost expected because it was new, but even after they attempted to fix it, people are still experiencing crashes. I think until the technology experts working on this can get it to a point where the website doesn't crash at all, citizens should apply for healthcare the old fashioned way to save time and let's be really honest, sanity, because sitting on the computer applying for something to only have it crash half way through is annoying and upsetting, taken from personal experience.
Summary: After the fix of the healthcare online registration, mixed reviews are being received. Some users are unable to receive the healthcare because the website crashes mid-application, while others have had absolutely no trouble with the application. The President has aknowleged these glitches and is working to get them fixed.
Connection: This is an example of how not every idea is perfect and the President has to deal with the upset public by listening to their complaints through linkage institutions such as social media.
Reaction: The first time the website crashed it was almost expected because it was new, but even after they attempted to fix it, people are still experiencing crashes. I think until the technology experts working on this can get it to a point where the website doesn't crash at all, citizens should apply for healthcare the old fashioned way to save time and let's be really honest, sanity, because sitting on the computer applying for something to only have it crash half way through is annoying and upsetting, taken from personal experience.
Josh Malik Economics 1
http://money.cnn.com/2013/12/03/news/economy/detroit-bankruptcy-ruling/index.html?iid=SF_E_Lead
Summary - The city of Detroit has recently been allowed to proceed with their bankruptcy claim due to the ruling by Judge Steven Rhodes. What this means is that the state government is going to have to cut nearly 9 billion dollars from their 11 billion dollar debt defecate. The majority of this money is going to be coming out of money owed to city employees, retirees, investors and other creditors. The people in Detroit are in outrage over this for obvious reasons. A major union has already stated that they plan to appeal the decision and the city is still continuing to negotiate with its many creditors as they draft up their plan for how they are going to cut expenses. Still, this ruling and continuation of bankruptcy by Detroit is going to affect a vast many people greatly. In one case, a 62 year old fire fighter chief retiree has been forced to apply for full time jobs at local hardware and convenience stores where he is having great trouble finding work due to his age. The man is extremely worried for his wife and himself because of how unsure they are of how they are going to pay their bills. With the recent cuts on pensions, they are going to come up short.
Reaction - I can see the argument that both the city and the people are making in this situation. In the case of Detroit, they truly are going bankrupt and have no choice but to make these cuts. While in the case of the citizens, they deserve their hard earned money and shouldn't be forced to go through this worry and in some cases, such as the one mentioned above, working again.
Connection - This can connect to what we are discussing in class in that although it is not his fault, the current governor mayor of Detroit is going to look extremely bad in the eyes of the people, and will most not likely get a re-election vote by those less educated people who vote only on how the times currently are.
Summary - The city of Detroit has recently been allowed to proceed with their bankruptcy claim due to the ruling by Judge Steven Rhodes. What this means is that the state government is going to have to cut nearly 9 billion dollars from their 11 billion dollar debt defecate. The majority of this money is going to be coming out of money owed to city employees, retirees, investors and other creditors. The people in Detroit are in outrage over this for obvious reasons. A major union has already stated that they plan to appeal the decision and the city is still continuing to negotiate with its many creditors as they draft up their plan for how they are going to cut expenses. Still, this ruling and continuation of bankruptcy by Detroit is going to affect a vast many people greatly. In one case, a 62 year old fire fighter chief retiree has been forced to apply for full time jobs at local hardware and convenience stores where he is having great trouble finding work due to his age. The man is extremely worried for his wife and himself because of how unsure they are of how they are going to pay their bills. With the recent cuts on pensions, they are going to come up short.
Reaction - I can see the argument that both the city and the people are making in this situation. In the case of Detroit, they truly are going bankrupt and have no choice but to make these cuts. While in the case of the citizens, they deserve their hard earned money and shouldn't be forced to go through this worry and in some cases, such as the one mentioned above, working again.
Connection - This can connect to what we are discussing in class in that although it is not his fault, the current governor mayor of Detroit is going to look extremely bad in the eyes of the people, and will most not likely get a re-election vote by those less educated people who vote only on how the times currently are.
Healthcare #1 Vincent
Summary: The new healthcare law exempts religious organizations from the required coverage of contraception. This exception does not include for-profit corporations. Hobby Lobby claims to be a family run corporation that tries to run its business based on Christian principles. Although it is willing to provide some contraception, it is not willing to provide drugs and devices that prevent embryos from implanting in the womb. They claim this is a complicit form of abortion. The case is being taken to the Supreme Court and the hearing will likely take place in March.
Reaction: I do not believe an employer should be able to force an employee to choose between a job and their freedom. I believe choices made about a woman’s health should be made by only she and her doctor. I do not believe it is anyone else’s place to make these decisions for her. I also believe that an employer should not be able to force their religious beliefs on an employee.
Connection: This connects to many of the litigant epitaph cases, where the hearing depends on the judges’ interpretations on the constitution. Because the constitution is so vaguely written, and because situations like this could not have been predicted by the framers, it is left to the Supreme Court to make the decision.
Matt Ernster - National Security #1
http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2013/dec/3/nato-seeks-clarity-troops-afghanistan/
Summary: Recently, debate has occurred with Afghanistan leaders, about the continued stay of troops in Afghanistan much like in Vietnam. Afghanistan president Hamid Karzai does not want troops to continue to wage small scale war. Karzai is angered because of instances like a child being killed in a drone bombing recently, and other civilian casualties. NATO and the US are reluctant to use the so called "zero-option", a complete removal of all troops, but it is necessary to threaten these options to gain a signing of the new bill. The bill would have about 8000 troops in Afghanistan to protect and train the citizens to defend themselves. Further debate will eventually lead to a verdict.
Reaction: I think that this issue needs to be handled with care. We do not want to have to have troops in Afghanistan forever like in Korea. However, we cant just leave the Afghans to fend for themselves if the president does not comply with the US and NATO's wants. Leaving them could result in further terrorism and a need to return. But keeping troops forever would not be in the countries best interest recourse and budget wise.
Connection: This is very connected to AP Government because our government must create and debate new policies and bills about this issue all of the time. National security will always be a major part of the policy agenda and we are very inclined to learn how the US government handles these issues and how we should go about making decisions that shape the government and its policies in the future.
Summary: Recently, debate has occurred with Afghanistan leaders, about the continued stay of troops in Afghanistan much like in Vietnam. Afghanistan president Hamid Karzai does not want troops to continue to wage small scale war. Karzai is angered because of instances like a child being killed in a drone bombing recently, and other civilian casualties. NATO and the US are reluctant to use the so called "zero-option", a complete removal of all troops, but it is necessary to threaten these options to gain a signing of the new bill. The bill would have about 8000 troops in Afghanistan to protect and train the citizens to defend themselves. Further debate will eventually lead to a verdict.
Reaction: I think that this issue needs to be handled with care. We do not want to have to have troops in Afghanistan forever like in Korea. However, we cant just leave the Afghans to fend for themselves if the president does not comply with the US and NATO's wants. Leaving them could result in further terrorism and a need to return. But keeping troops forever would not be in the countries best interest recourse and budget wise.
Connection: This is very connected to AP Government because our government must create and debate new policies and bills about this issue all of the time. National security will always be a major part of the policy agenda and we are very inclined to learn how the US government handles these issues and how we should go about making decisions that shape the government and its policies in the future.
Matt Cassady National security #1
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/politics/sns-rt-us-syria-crisis-ship-20131201,0,6349065.story
Summary: The U.S. government has begun outfitting ships in its reserve ready force with equipment to enable it to destroy some of Syria's chemical weapons on the sea. There is a Defense Department that neutralizes components used in chemical weapons a defense official said on condition of anonymity. It is supervising the disposal of Syria's chemical arms the US offered to destroy some of the components on a US ship. The US is supporting everyone in there efforts to destroy there chemical weapons in the best possible way to cause the least amount of harm.
Reaction: My reaction to this is that it's good to see that the US is trying to make attempts to dispose of all of these Chemical weapons and try to prevent a nuclear war which would not end well for any country win or lose that war. Also that It helps our National Security because it looks like we are trying to make an effort to make peace and will prevent attacks from coming down on us.
Connection: My connection to AP government with this article is that National Security is obviously a big issue when it comes to elections. If you do your job and keep the security of our nation safe then you will have a better chance of getting elected over someone who is going around and bombing anything in sight.
Summary: The U.S. government has begun outfitting ships in its reserve ready force with equipment to enable it to destroy some of Syria's chemical weapons on the sea. There is a Defense Department that neutralizes components used in chemical weapons a defense official said on condition of anonymity. It is supervising the disposal of Syria's chemical arms the US offered to destroy some of the components on a US ship. The US is supporting everyone in there efforts to destroy there chemical weapons in the best possible way to cause the least amount of harm.
Reaction: My reaction to this is that it's good to see that the US is trying to make attempts to dispose of all of these Chemical weapons and try to prevent a nuclear war which would not end well for any country win or lose that war. Also that It helps our National Security because it looks like we are trying to make an effort to make peace and will prevent attacks from coming down on us.
Connection: My connection to AP government with this article is that National Security is obviously a big issue when it comes to elections. If you do your job and keep the security of our nation safe then you will have a better chance of getting elected over someone who is going around and bombing anything in sight.
Fredy Stroker - Health Care
http://www.washingtonpost.com/national/health-science/health-care-enrollment-on-web-plagued-by-bugs/2013/12/02/e3021b86-5b79-11e3-a49b-90a0e156254b_story.html
Summary: A significant percentage of Americans who have chosen health care programs from the online federal insurance marketplace have had problems using this online program. These errors by the computer system may cause to not get covered until next month. Roughly 1/3 of people have had technical difficulties with the sign up. These technical difficulties include failure to notify that there are new customers to the insurance agencies, duplicate accounts, incorrect information about family members, and more. These problems have been occurring since the program was first opened by the Obama administration in Oct 1 and is still having issues even though they have been trying to fix it. Although the website has undergone some changes and bugs have been fixed, there are still many people that are having problems.
Reaction: I am very surprised that they still haven't fixed everything about this website. The government is so large, and draws in so much money that I would've thought they could've fixed this fairly easy. It is not fair to have many Americans still without health care because the government can't run a normal website that works correctly. They need to fix this as soon as possible or change what they are doing in my opinion.
Connection: This relates to how we've talked about technology changing the way politics are and how the government works. Now, we can log into a website and get health care instantly. This would've sounds crazy 10 years ago. This also has it's negative aspects, as shown here. Technology is not always perfect, and it can have problems. We cannot rely solely on technology because it isn't always reliable.
Katherine Baer - National Security
http://articles.latimes.com/2013/sep/12/news/la-pn-senate-committee-reporters-shield-law-20130912
Senate committee approves reporters' shield law
Summary: Senate has recently approved a bill that protects journalists from being forced to testify about their work. The bill protects those who supply news for "an entity or service that disseminates news and information". Journalists are compelled to disclose certain information if the government feels it threats national security. The Obama administration has been criticized for getting phone records from reporters with the help of the NSA. Congress members differ in their opinions on the bill. Some republicans feel we don't need another law to protect the press if the government refrained from abusing reporters. In general, democrats feel the law is the best way to prevent future presidential administration from "overstepping their authority".
Reflection: I think this bill is a good thing because it pleases the majority of the government and press. The government is able to step in and question journalists about their work if it seems to threat national security, which I think is huge. Whatever the government deems a threat can be checked, which will protect our country and its people. The press is able to do their job and report news as necessary with fewer road blocks. This will likely allow them to be more effective journalists. I understand why some congress members feel we don't need another law, but I think under the current circumstances the law is fitting and will help future administrations in the long run.
Connection: This idea of giving the press free reign to publish virtually whatever they want without being questioned can be compared to the court case of NY Times vs. Sullivan. In this case, it was decided that someone must prove what was published to be a lie, confirm that the reporter knew it was a lie and that they intended harm by publishing it. Without this proof, people have no affect whatsoever on what is published. It is extremely difficult for someone to prove those three things, which makes it easy for reporters to get away with slandering people and gives them free ride to publish what they want. The law senate approved recently also makes it easier for press to publish what they want,-and not be questioned about it. The only limitation is that if it threatens national security, the government can step in. Overall, both NY Times vs. Sullivan and the law recently passed by Senate give the press a lot of freedom.
Alex Connor National Security
Ruling Makes Detroit Biggest City to Qualify for Bankruptcy
Summarize: To summarize, Detroit is billions of dollars in debt and filed for bankruptcy under a courts ruling. Because Detroit can not afford to provide basic services to it's population of around 680,000 people. Because of this, Detroit as to start a new adjustment plan which could mean taking money away from retirees and pensions. Because of Chapter 9, the employee pensions can be taken away because they are only at state level and not federal. Detroit has to make hard decisions to freshly start their city and get itself out of bankruptcy.
Reaction: I believe this relates to National Security because even though it is not another country waging war on us, it is America's internal struggle that causes national issues. I am in sock that such a large city can go bankrupt when it used to be the city leading in the auto industry. I am also surprised that to save money and to get out of debt, they are willing to take away retirement money and pensions. People worked hard to get that money and without it, some may go homeless after working hard their whole lives and that is saddening.
Connection: I think this connects to the interstate commerce clause in that because the issues and debt within Detroit are mainly in Michigan, like the pensions and retirement, the Federal Government can not completely step in and take charge buy giving people their money for instance. Of course this is a national issue, because Detroit is a huge city, but it is currently mainly at state level.
Economics
August 7 2013
Summary: With Congress and Obama creating controversy over Obamacare, a big question that is going around is if Obamacare will help or hurt the economy. Some negatives predicted with Obamacare is that job employment may go down and stunt growth. With Obamacare, more taxes will be added to things like health insurance companies and tanning salons. One major change comes with restaurants. Since they will have to provide medical insurance to full-time employees, restaurant owners will start to reduce the number of full-time employees in order to save money. The good sides to this however is that it will provide many Americans with health insurance that they would not have been previously been able to get. It costs $200 billion due to worker absentees when workers are on sick leave, and Obamacare will not eliminate this, but it is predicted to help reduce this cost.
Reaction: I personally believe that Obamacare is trying to help those without health care while trying to help the economy at the same time, and I believe that's saying something. While I do not know if it will help or hurt the economy, I believe trying this can't increase the debt too much than it already is. I will leave it up to our congressmen to decide if it will help or hurt the economy, but I believe that it is worth it to at least try.
Connection: Personally, I am not finding the biggest connection between Obamacare and myself at this age. Without a full-time job and the fact that I can be on my parents plan until I am 26, I feel like I am in a pretty good position when it comes to health care. When I am out of College and older than 26, I'm sure this will have more of an impact on me (If Obamacare is even still around). I predict that a new medicare plan will be intact by then anyways, so I will have to sit by on this one for now.
The Aaron Lawrence Econ. 1
http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2013-12-02/black-friday-weekend-spending-drop-pressures-u-s-stores.html
Summary: We all know that the year's biggest shopping day was on Thursday night through Friday. Their were plenty of shoppers this year compared to last year, almost 2 million more, but on the down side, there were less sales. Sales dropped almost 4% this year, which dropped the average spending down to $407. This is a problem for retailers because 20%-40% of their revenues come during black friday. Retailers suggest that this happened due to the financial position that many americans are in. They think that spending is down because of the employment of people and the incomes that they are getting, which could explain the reduction of sales. Because people reduced their spending, this puts large retail stores in a tighter situation financially because much of their gross profit during black friday, which means that they need to increase sales within the next three weeks. In Mall of America, shoppers seemed to have their mind set on what they wanted, they came in and got what they wanted, then left. For many retailers, they rely on customers buying things randomly with no set goal, but this year, most stores just saw customers grab their wants and go. December will be a huge month for retailers in their attempt to gain more profit.
Reaction: I find it hard to believe that with more shoppers who came on black friday, resulted in less profit than last year. I understand people not buying more than the necessities, but its important to spend in this economy. My hope is that stores make up more profit in the next few weeks, and consumer spending increases in order to help this economy fully recover. The good news is that 2 million more shoppers participated this year, which shows more hope for consumer spending.
Relation: Our economy relies on our spending, in order for our economy to be successful. "You gotta spend money to make money" as an old saying goes. When we spend money, our economy grows, and when the economy grows, more opportunities like employment will open up for people, along with better financial situations for people.
Summary: We all know that the year's biggest shopping day was on Thursday night through Friday. Their were plenty of shoppers this year compared to last year, almost 2 million more, but on the down side, there were less sales. Sales dropped almost 4% this year, which dropped the average spending down to $407. This is a problem for retailers because 20%-40% of their revenues come during black friday. Retailers suggest that this happened due to the financial position that many americans are in. They think that spending is down because of the employment of people and the incomes that they are getting, which could explain the reduction of sales. Because people reduced their spending, this puts large retail stores in a tighter situation financially because much of their gross profit during black friday, which means that they need to increase sales within the next three weeks. In Mall of America, shoppers seemed to have their mind set on what they wanted, they came in and got what they wanted, then left. For many retailers, they rely on customers buying things randomly with no set goal, but this year, most stores just saw customers grab their wants and go. December will be a huge month for retailers in their attempt to gain more profit.
Reaction: I find it hard to believe that with more shoppers who came on black friday, resulted in less profit than last year. I understand people not buying more than the necessities, but its important to spend in this economy. My hope is that stores make up more profit in the next few weeks, and consumer spending increases in order to help this economy fully recover. The good news is that 2 million more shoppers participated this year, which shows more hope for consumer spending.
Relation: Our economy relies on our spending, in order for our economy to be successful. "You gotta spend money to make money" as an old saying goes. When we spend money, our economy grows, and when the economy grows, more opportunities like employment will open up for people, along with better financial situations for people.
Aimee Plante - Social Welfare
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/09/05/welfare-drug-test_n_3873177.html
SUMMARY: The North Carolina GOP passed a bill requiring citizens to be tested for drugs before receiving welfare; however, Gov. Pat McCrory (R) vetoed the bill. Although the statehouse has since overridden the governor's decision, McCrory also refuses to take action on the law's implementation until it has received sufficient funds. Many Republicans argue that, by not implementing the law, those who waste their money on drugs are not being properly managed to save money for those who truly need it. According to McCrory, his decision was not based on support for drug abuse, but rather on previous attempts in other states to dissuade drug users seeking welfare. Florida's drug testing in 2011 had apparently cost more than it saved, for example. With this information, the governor concluded that there are better -- and cheaper -- ways to discourage drug abuse.
REACTION: I definitely understand why the GOP wants to test welfare users. If people are only so poor because they waste their money on illegal substances, why should they get the same benefits as those who truly cannot do anything about their situation? It makes sense, yet I believe McCrory is completely rational for looking at past implementations of similar laws and deciding that the law is a bad move. I believe that there are many truly helpless people who are addicted to drugs and that there is a better option in combating the issue than denying money to those who cannot help themselves. Looking at the law from an economic and effective perspective, I believe that McCrory is making the right decision.
CONNECTION: This connects to the US government's division of power. Through federalism, states are given the same opportunity as the national government to regulate citizen's actions. Just as the POTUS can veto a bill, the governor of North Carolina can to serve as a check for the laws passed within his/her state. NC is essentially dealing with a smaller case of the slow legislation process we can recognize in our national government. It is also very interesting to note that this particular bill is backed predominately by Republicans while the Republican governor is fighting it. We hear about this in cases of divided government, but it seems the executive of the state's Republican representation is crossing party lines on this issue.
SUMMARY: The North Carolina GOP passed a bill requiring citizens to be tested for drugs before receiving welfare; however, Gov. Pat McCrory (R) vetoed the bill. Although the statehouse has since overridden the governor's decision, McCrory also refuses to take action on the law's implementation until it has received sufficient funds. Many Republicans argue that, by not implementing the law, those who waste their money on drugs are not being properly managed to save money for those who truly need it. According to McCrory, his decision was not based on support for drug abuse, but rather on previous attempts in other states to dissuade drug users seeking welfare. Florida's drug testing in 2011 had apparently cost more than it saved, for example. With this information, the governor concluded that there are better -- and cheaper -- ways to discourage drug abuse.
REACTION: I definitely understand why the GOP wants to test welfare users. If people are only so poor because they waste their money on illegal substances, why should they get the same benefits as those who truly cannot do anything about their situation? It makes sense, yet I believe McCrory is completely rational for looking at past implementations of similar laws and deciding that the law is a bad move. I believe that there are many truly helpless people who are addicted to drugs and that there is a better option in combating the issue than denying money to those who cannot help themselves. Looking at the law from an economic and effective perspective, I believe that McCrory is making the right decision.
CONNECTION: This connects to the US government's division of power. Through federalism, states are given the same opportunity as the national government to regulate citizen's actions. Just as the POTUS can veto a bill, the governor of North Carolina can to serve as a check for the laws passed within his/her state. NC is essentially dealing with a smaller case of the slow legislation process we can recognize in our national government. It is also very interesting to note that this particular bill is backed predominately by Republicans while the Republican governor is fighting it. We hear about this in cases of divided government, but it seems the executive of the state's Republican representation is crossing party lines on this issue.
Weinstein Environment #1
Summary: A select few Miami schools have become the first of many to introduce a new element to school lunches. Foods are being served on plates made from sugar cane, a farmer-friendly compost. The district hopes to replace all plastic foam trays with the new plates by September 2014. Members of the Urban School Food Alliance, six big-city school systems including Miami, Chicago, Dallas, Los Angeles, New York and Orlando, wish to introduce the dishes to over 2.6 million students in the specified areas. This would mean the production of nearly 271 million sugar cane plates per year. Instituting these platters is simply a starting point for the alliance who plan to gather a large amount of funds which will be used to persuade major suppliers to produce other eco-friendly and healthier alternatives to current lunchroom items. This week kicks off the start to the New York City Education Department’s trial with the plates which will be used in four different schools for breakfast and lunch. Healthier foods are the next topic of concern among the alliance. Numerous school food service officials support the changes and hope students will take the good habits they learn from these advancements and carry them into adulthood. However, these developments come at a cost. The sugar cane plates cost fifteen cents per dish while traditional plastic foam trays are only about five cents per dish, but Eric Goldstein, the chief executive of school support services in New York City, believes that companies will lower prices. This is due to the fact that all members of the Urban School Food Alliance will place their orders through the same manufacturers, thus creating a huge contract for one corporation.
Reaction: I am in favor of removing plastic foam trays from school cafeterias. These are made from petroleum byproducts and become garbage in landfills. While I think the sugar cane plates are a better alternative, they are more expensive. It is true that they will compost and are environmentally smart, but they can only be used once. The plastic trays that the Bettendorf school system uses are reusable, unlike both the sugar cane plates and the foam trays. This method is not foolproof either as school food service officials may have the added job of washing dishes which equates to more hot water being used. Overall, I am happy to see the alliance taking steps in the right direction towards healthier foods and eco-friendly dining, but advancements will not be made overnight.
Connection: Chapter 19 discusses the increased calling from American people for environmental reforms. The volume of regulations and the increased spending for programs has increased the scope of government, and the Democrats favor these advancements more than Republicans. The Water Pollution Control Act of 1972 was created in hopes to clean up the nation’s rivers and lakes. The plastic foam trays do not easily compost, unlike the sugar cane plates. This increases the likeliness of such trays ending up in bodies of water, thus exemplifying the need for that piece of legislation.
Morgan Estok- Economics #1
http://www.nytimes.com/2013/12/03/business/economy/factories-worldwide-are-showing-momentum.html?ref=unitedstateseconomy
Summary: This article is about the increase in global manufacturing that has happened this past month and its effects on the national and global economy. On Monday, figures were released that showed factory operation at its healthiest since the spring of 2011 and well above what economists had been expecting. Even though Wall Street stocks fell slightly on Monday, the figures for the year so far, show that business is increasing for large companies despite many government cutbacks from around the world. Economists are hoping that this upswing in manufacturing will permeate into the labor market and allow the Federal Reserve to being its stimulus efforts again. October proved to be good for the job market, as unemployment went from 7.3% to 7.1%, despite the government shut down. Many believe that this increase in manufacturing and decrease in unemployment is due largely to a swell in government funded construction.
Reaction: I, obviously, believe that this is a very positive situation for our country to be in right now. I'm actually surprised that the unemployment rate went down in October even with the government shut down. I also think that many people judge how our economy is doing, solely on how Wall Street is doing, which isn't necessarily true. This proves that even though stocks are down, other parts of our economy can be thriving. It also brings into perspective, what this does for the global economy, which is just as (if not more) important and crucial as the national economy.
Connection: This can be connected to capitalism and how it can be beneficial to the economy. Conservatives would be thrilled to see that large companies are having an increase in business, not only nationally, but globally as well. Liberals can't ignore that these big businesses are allowing unemployment rates to drop and purchasing of goods by other countries to rise. Even with the government cut backs and restrictions that have been set, large manufacturers can still maintain an increase in business.
Summary: This article is about the increase in global manufacturing that has happened this past month and its effects on the national and global economy. On Monday, figures were released that showed factory operation at its healthiest since the spring of 2011 and well above what economists had been expecting. Even though Wall Street stocks fell slightly on Monday, the figures for the year so far, show that business is increasing for large companies despite many government cutbacks from around the world. Economists are hoping that this upswing in manufacturing will permeate into the labor market and allow the Federal Reserve to being its stimulus efforts again. October proved to be good for the job market, as unemployment went from 7.3% to 7.1%, despite the government shut down. Many believe that this increase in manufacturing and decrease in unemployment is due largely to a swell in government funded construction.
Reaction: I, obviously, believe that this is a very positive situation for our country to be in right now. I'm actually surprised that the unemployment rate went down in October even with the government shut down. I also think that many people judge how our economy is doing, solely on how Wall Street is doing, which isn't necessarily true. This proves that even though stocks are down, other parts of our economy can be thriving. It also brings into perspective, what this does for the global economy, which is just as (if not more) important and crucial as the national economy.
Connection: This can be connected to capitalism and how it can be beneficial to the economy. Conservatives would be thrilled to see that large companies are having an increase in business, not only nationally, but globally as well. Liberals can't ignore that these big businesses are allowing unemployment rates to drop and purchasing of goods by other countries to rise. Even with the government cut backs and restrictions that have been set, large manufacturers can still maintain an increase in business.
Monday, December 2, 2013
Health Care #1: Weaver
http://www.washingtonpost.com/national/health-science/updated-healthcaregov-gets-mixed-reviews/2013/12/02/b78c5d8a-5bb1-11e3-801f-1f90bf692c9b_story.html
SUMMARY: healthcare.gov was updated today (Monday) so that the consumer can actually get on the site. As expected, different reviews were stated. Specialists in Utah said that 3/4 successfully got healthcare within an hour go logging in. North Dakota, Alabama, and Wisconsin also had positive reactions yo the site. However, Iowa, Illinois, and Florida wished more upon the website. Some hospitals in these areas stated that they had high hopes, and those hopes were squashed. Out of the dozens attempts online, only one was able to decide on a plan. The site seemed to work well in he morning, however, started to glitch around 10 a.m. Approximately 750,000 people had visited the sight by this afternoon.
REACTION: In my 16 years of living, if asked if Americans were strongly opinionated, I wouldn't hesitate to answer yes. Being strongly opinionated isn't a bad thing. If we weren't, I don't think we could grow and improve as a country. When healthcare.gov failed the first time, people made such a fuss about it that the government was put in a position to quickly fix it. If there wasn't such a strong opinion, change wouldn't have come so quickly. The government wouldn't know what we, as a nation, want if there isn't strong opinions.
CONNECTION: I can connect this to ap gov because while all the academic award participants were practicing their procession, we watched a video breaking down the health care act. By the first of 2014, this act will come into play. This video was really informative because it broke down the act and what was wrong with health care before. I didn't know that people with asthma have difficulties finding insurance companies because people don't want to insure them. This is because they have increased health factors and more money will be spent on them. Also, people with complex medical needs, like cancer or a major surgery, could go over a certain quota of money (let's say $500,000) and the insurance money stop covering them. This act will stop these problems to give people the same opportunities for health care.
SUMMARY: healthcare.gov was updated today (Monday) so that the consumer can actually get on the site. As expected, different reviews were stated. Specialists in Utah said that 3/4 successfully got healthcare within an hour go logging in. North Dakota, Alabama, and Wisconsin also had positive reactions yo the site. However, Iowa, Illinois, and Florida wished more upon the website. Some hospitals in these areas stated that they had high hopes, and those hopes were squashed. Out of the dozens attempts online, only one was able to decide on a plan. The site seemed to work well in he morning, however, started to glitch around 10 a.m. Approximately 750,000 people had visited the sight by this afternoon.
REACTION: In my 16 years of living, if asked if Americans were strongly opinionated, I wouldn't hesitate to answer yes. Being strongly opinionated isn't a bad thing. If we weren't, I don't think we could grow and improve as a country. When healthcare.gov failed the first time, people made such a fuss about it that the government was put in a position to quickly fix it. If there wasn't such a strong opinion, change wouldn't have come so quickly. The government wouldn't know what we, as a nation, want if there isn't strong opinions.
CONNECTION: I can connect this to ap gov because while all the academic award participants were practicing their procession, we watched a video breaking down the health care act. By the first of 2014, this act will come into play. This video was really informative because it broke down the act and what was wrong with health care before. I didn't know that people with asthma have difficulties finding insurance companies because people don't want to insure them. This is because they have increased health factors and more money will be spent on them. Also, people with complex medical needs, like cancer or a major surgery, could go over a certain quota of money (let's say $500,000) and the insurance money stop covering them. This act will stop these problems to give people the same opportunities for health care.
Carter Himmelman Economics
Home Permits and prices Rise, Despite mortgage rates
Summary: In October, the price of a house permit rose to the highest it has ever been in five and a half years. In September there was a even larger gain in single-family homes, suggesting that the interest rate of mortgages will rise. On Tuesday there has been signs of strength in the economy. There has been headwinds from rising mortgage rates. There has been many different things that have been effected from the rising rates. One thing was building permits, they rose 6.2% last month. Secondly housing permits have been effected, it rose 5.2% when it was at 13.9%. House prices have risen because of foreclosed houses.
Reaction: Well I am not that knowledgeable on the mortgage rates. So I do not know a lot about this. So in my opinion I think that the rising mortgage rates is very shocking. I do know that the housing market is not that good right now. Just seeing how high the percentages have risen is very frightening. Even though I am not looking for a house, when I do this is going to effect me a lot. This will not make me want to buy a house.
Connection: This article can relate to many things in government. One thing is that they have to make many different policies. They have to make policies to change the mortgage rates to effect the economy.
Sunday, December 1, 2013
Health Care #1 - Alexis Tansey
http://online.wsj.com/news/articles/SB10001424052702304448204579186322449012040
Summary: The state of Oklahoma has sued the Obama administration because health insurance premiums are increasing and coverage is decreasing. They are trying to keep the government from imposing tax penalties on certain states. If this is successful, the deficit spending associated with the health care act could be reduced tremendously. The government is imposing tax penalties on states who refuse to create their own health care exchange. The majority of states, including Oklahoma, have refused to create their own exchanges. States are angry that their people are being taxed because of this. Other states and businesses have also sued the federal government. The Obama administration will appeal for summary judgement and the courts will decide how to proceed. According to the law, states can not be forced to set up their own exchanges. The success of these lawsuits would largely contribute to the "defunding" of the affordable care act.
Reaction: I agree with Oklahoma. I do not think the federal government should be allowed to tax states if the law says that they don't have to create their own exchange. It was not in Oklahoma's best interest to create their own exchange and they should definitely not be punished. It should tell the government something that the majority of states do not want to comply with the affordable care act.
Connection: Every Friday in this class, we take notes on litigant epitaphs and study many court cases. Oklahoma is suing the federal government right now, a case that could be taken to Supreme Court. Maybe this will be a case that is studied in the future.
Summary: The state of Oklahoma has sued the Obama administration because health insurance premiums are increasing and coverage is decreasing. They are trying to keep the government from imposing tax penalties on certain states. If this is successful, the deficit spending associated with the health care act could be reduced tremendously. The government is imposing tax penalties on states who refuse to create their own health care exchange. The majority of states, including Oklahoma, have refused to create their own exchanges. States are angry that their people are being taxed because of this. Other states and businesses have also sued the federal government. The Obama administration will appeal for summary judgement and the courts will decide how to proceed. According to the law, states can not be forced to set up their own exchanges. The success of these lawsuits would largely contribute to the "defunding" of the affordable care act.
Reaction: I agree with Oklahoma. I do not think the federal government should be allowed to tax states if the law says that they don't have to create their own exchange. It was not in Oklahoma's best interest to create their own exchange and they should definitely not be punished. It should tell the government something that the majority of states do not want to comply with the affordable care act.
Connection: Every Friday in this class, we take notes on litigant epitaphs and study many court cases. Oklahoma is suing the federal government right now, a case that could be taken to Supreme Court. Maybe this will be a case that is studied in the future.
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