The Politics of Taxing and Spending

 

 

Here we go again. That whole 'fiscal cliff' crisis from 2 months ago is back. This time politicians have labeled it 'the sequester' and it included about $85 billion in cuts. The chart above provides a pie chart of the cuts to education that would happen if no deal is reached by the end of the month.

Some are calling this whole breakdown of communication between our two political parties childish, ridiculous, and horrible-considering that those who will feel the effects of such cuts are those who simply cannot live without the benefits.

Others are saying the cuts must happen, and thus will serve as a wake-up call to all the current hard line politicians who would rather play politics than actually serve the people they represent. Further, they claim, $85 billion in a budget of $3 trillion is minor. (Unless of course you depend on the programs that would be drastically cut).

What's your take?



2012 and Political Ads: A Year in Review

2012 saw a record number of political ads. Why did this happen? Is this a problem? What's the solution? Do these ads even make a difference? What's your reaction when you see a political ad? At what point do you think people make up in terms of who to vote for? Take a look at the article, view the Clint Eastwood commercial, and comment with your thoughts. Happy Presidents Day on Monday!

The Supreme Court

 

I like that they aren't all looking at the camera here.

 

This article elaborates upon the discussion we had in class regarding the Supreme Court's upcoming case on gay marriage. Notice that there are actually two cases being lumped together, and also notice the interesting influence the Obama Administration has on the court by making public comments and filing briefs with the court (yes, like Amicus Curiae briefs, even though they aren't an interest group). What Constitutional Amendment(s) will be considered in the case? How do you think the case will be decided, and why? How do you think the case should be decided, and why?