PadminiArhant.com
United States – President’s Day 2017
February 16, 2017
By Padmini Arhant
The office of Presidency is a powerful position as the chief executive and commander-in-chief of the military in the nation. Power comes with responsibility and ability to manage and maintain stability without compromising unity, peace and progress.
There is no doubt that politics pose challenges in many ways due to political, ideological and fundamental reasons except recognizing common grounds to build the nation for the benefit of all rather than selective few in society.
In the United States – the two political parties as Republicans and Democrats resigned to conservatism and liberalism with moderate position on both sides often bridging the gap in the otherwise political tussle on most legislations make governance nearly impossible. Lately media role exacerbates the condition.
Not to mention the internal and external influence on government through lobby, campaign financing and think tanks policy disenfranchise electorate post-election.
Regardless of administrations whether republican or democrat, the political favors are exchanged between all three government branches viz. the executive, legislative and judiciary members and big donors behind candidacy. In politics, the tradition expanded for self and vested interests hindering necessary developments in the country.
The problem lies in the absence of accountability and collusion to protect one another exempting those involved in violations from facing charges that are normally enforced on ordinary citizens and others not in the exclusive club.
The polarization in society with the rule of law binding on all citizens while the lawmakers, government members and their affiliates, associates or anyone remotely linked to them not affected by such laws or ethics despite numerous breaches raise serious questions about the system declared as democracy.
Presidency with executive orders is misunderstood as privilege meant for misuse and administrations in the past and present misinterpret the purpose as extrajudicial power at their disposal that creates unnecessary tension and confusion.
There is one thing about campaign promises to attract political base and segments with belief on any issue in the contentious elections even when that leads to lofty and controversial aspirations and then the other dealing with practicality of fulfilling them upon assuming office.
As a result, the campaign strategy drawn on extraordinary goals to win elections fall short on mechanisms and means to deliver the election motivated pledge.
The newly elected administration headed by President Donald Trump signed executive orders on immigration and building the wall among several others might be prompted in adherence to personal convictions over due diligence.
On the immigration matter – deportation of families with many having United States born children as dependents is not a rational measure and continuation of the earlier administration approach in this regard would prove alignment on ill-conceived exercise.
President Donald Trump professional background related to real estate and hospitality industry with immigrant workers contributing to business success is the reality that other businesses and companies deserve to boost economic growth understandably the President’s immediate priority.
The dynamics utilizing diverse skills and orientation that immigrants offer in different capacity instrumental in advancing macroeconomic prospects and international trade.
Any apprehensions on immigrants depriving American work force arise from businesses seeking higher profitability at lower cost of operation and simultaneously remaining competitive in the global market.
Many factors such as taxes, business incentives and employment structure for various categories would create better opportunity to maximize productivity in manufacturing and service sector.
The proposal to build the wall for border security is not prudent considering the scope of the project, the investment and effectiveness could drain resources with little or no impact on the intended course.
Instead President Donald Trump focus to ease trade relations with neighbors like Mexico and prevent arms sales to drug cartels responsible for violence forcing local population to leave their territory in search of safety and economic security would be far more viable in addressing the cause.
In terms of the recently confirmed EPA appointment of the former Oklahoma attorney general Scott Pruitt has received well founded concerns and reservations with EPA role to save environment from relentless abuse with energy and automobile industry resistance to contain contamination, pollution and carbon emission threatening life and ecosystem at a rapid pace.
Environment protection agency (EPA) lacking in appropriate guidelines and enforceable options defeats the objectives for federal agency as oversight monitoring and preserving the environment shared by the entire nation and the world at large.
Accordingly, the incoming director Scott Pruitt justifying the post with actions favorable to environment like clean air and water are vital that would alleviate health hazards cutting costs on health care for many suffering from preventable illness in addition to promoting well-being for all.
Without healthy environment, wealth and prosperity is unsustainable and meaningless in the event of increasing environment woes endangering life and habitat.
As for other executive rules from the current administration, the topic will resume elaborating the pros and cons to evaluate the risks and recovery process.
Peace o all!
Thank you.
Padmini Arhant
Author & Presenter PadminiArhant.com
Spouse in Divine Mission
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Politics – Public Service or Gold Mine?
By Padmini Arhant
Choosing political career and joining the government would be normally considered a sense of duty to serve constituents, district, state, nation and the world at large.
The meaning of Public Service leading to the term public servant is regarded derogatory by members in government. Instead the designation preference is authority and powerful entity or lawmakers even when they are lawbreakers with no respect for the rule of law and ethics they enforce on citizens of the state.
Not surprisingly, the recruits in the administration are usually the ones committed to not necessarily serving the nation but the head of the administration and in most instances the spouse in particular.
How does one explain the wealth acquisition among White House staff with annual salary $172,200 and upon exit at the end of the term their net worth is millions of dollars? The same would apply to members of Congress as well.
Are they all born with silver spoon and pledged to serve the country?
In that case, shouldn’t they bequeath their wealth alleviating economic disparity?
Unless, the situation is other way around. The primary purpose is to make hay when the sun shines and in politics it happens rain or shine – the perennial season.
How about the administration using IRS to intimidate political opponents or organizations for partisan agenda?
While protecting administration members in serious violation of tax evasions and tax fraud.
The administration of the former President Barack Obama hired White House Staff have done remarkably well considering the Hope and Change platform enabling the victory in 2008.
Synopsis on public service guaranteed wealthy status.
In 2012, the ex-President Barack Obama White House members on annual salary $172,200 or more net worth were as follows within three years of service in the administration and exponential rise towards the second term.
Susan Rice – $20 million plus
Valerie Jarrett – $3.3 million to $13 million
Christopher Lu – $2.3 million and $5.2million
David Plouffe – $3.6 million
Jay Carney – $3.2 million
Dan Pfeiffer – $2.1million
Just a few names among several for whom politics apparently is a gold mine.
No wonder the selective choices effectively compete in the gold rush.
Padmini Arhant
Author & Presenter PadminiArhant.com
Spouse in Divine Mission
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Politics and Media Relations
By Padmini Arhant
How does Politics manage media relations?
Through wedding and pre-nuptial agreement. Marry media and bury the hatchet.
In the former President Barack Obama administration – the media relation, a family affair.
ABC News executive producer Ian Cameron is married to Susan Rice, former National Security Adviser in former President Barack Obama administration – This explains the ex-NSA Susan Rice sweep and mop strategy in misleading American public on Benghazi scandal.
CBS President David Rhodes is the brother of Ben Rhodes, Barack Obama’s Deputy National Security Adviser for Strategic Communications – Master stroke not to report on Ben Rhodes email elaborating coverup on Benghazi debacle.
ABC News correspondent Claire Shipman is married to former Whitehouse Press Secretary Jay Carney.
ABC News and Univision reporter Matthew Jaffe is married to Katie Hogan, Obama’s Deputy Press Secretary.
ABC President Ben Sherwood is the brother of Obama’s Special Adviser Elizabeth Sherwood.
CNN President Virginia Moseley is married to Hillary Clinton’s former Deputy Secretary Tom Nides – No wonder there was all praise regardless of Benghazi, private email server and political excess baggage.
Is this not a conflict of interest?
Who is to report when the source outsourced to serve political interest.
Politics and cronyism evolved to become inseparable entity defending any indefensible position.
Padmini Arhant
Author & Presenter PadminiArhant.com
Spouse in Divine Mission
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United States – The Parallels and Paradoxical Judgment
By Padmini Arhant
Whenever the wheels of justice are out of alignment and spin off breaking the trust and aspirations for fair outcome, the system collapse.
Politics in control of judiciary with judicial nominations and appointments stemming from the source responsible for diverse violations and constitutional breach cannot be expected to deliver justice.
Similarly, media and press along with entertainment industry directed to embellish and exaggerate performance of one administration while hold the other in extreme contempt clarifies the apparatus beyond repair.
There are many issues that are raised now were not pursued with prevalent zeal during previous administrations unspeakable crimes and undemocratic means exercising extrajudicial power in the executive branch.
Notwithstanding the former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton’s defiance to secrecy on private email server and hacking domestic and foreign governments officials email and phones besides toppling democratic leaderships for perpetual chaos and unrest.
The advocates of democracy and liberalism or republican conservative values together with the so-called progressives and independents dismayed at current state of affairs originated long before and worsened thereafter possibly lost in memory lane.
Since twenty first century onset in the face of coordinated and coalesced 9/11 attack for preemptive aggressions against nations in the Project for New American Century (PNAC), the quest to deplete United States economy and foreign land resources never ceased.
Then the administration of hope and change arrived in 2008 intensifying the ill-conceived foreign policy and domestic woes that are misquoted as positive accomplishments.
In fact, the recently departed administration could get away with more of the same as the predecessor inflicting damages and magnifying problems at home and abroad.
Bush-Cheney administration introduced Islamophobia under the guise of national security was maintained by Barack Obama administration.
The President name Barack Hussain Obama was not acknowledged as a Muslim heritage and insisted on having nothing to do with Islam.
The Bush-Cheney infamous Guantanamo Bay and activities such as renditions including abductions for overseas detentions denying habeas corpus diligently pursued under former President Barack Obama administration.
The State department under former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton organized coups in Latin America, Egypt, Thailand and Ukraine not barring Syrian peace accord sabotage at every opportunity from the certified democrat experiencing defeat in the 2016 Presidential election attributed to bizarre speculations except the candidate’s flawed trajectory.
The fact check on ex-President Barack Obama and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton could very well be slighted and lampooned through surrogates and talking heads in different form and shape.
However, the administration’s egregious decisions sponsoring terrorism with funding, arming and training terror networks evolving into ISIS and direct involvement leading to irreversible loss of lives and destruction of innocent civilians’ future forced into refugee status are not laughing matter.
Congressional hearing on Benghazi scandal scoffed instead of admitting dereliction of duty on preventable fatalities of former U.S. Ambassador to Libya Christopher Stevens and intelligence officials showing little or no respect for life in general.
In the same manner, the massive cover up on Abbotabad mission claiming victory in the killing of the deceased Osama Bin Laden and systematic elimination of Navy SEALS deployed in that operation under Barack Obama Presidency is all too sensitive for free speech condemnations audible at the moment.
The Presidency of Barack Obama foreign policy accelerated economic sanctions against countries identified as adversary.
Notably embargo impact citizens of the sanctioned nations depriving them from essentials like food, medicines and various items that are imported from other regions. The action is far more debilitating given the scarcity and lack of access contributing to slow and painful deaths of children, women and elderly suffering from chronic disease.
Yet sanctions are passionately endorsed at UNSC as the ideal choice to contain nations that are not in agreement with unreasonable demand from major powers exerting control over world population.
The troop withdrawals in Iraq was redeployed in the outskirts of Baghdad and Mosul while the remaining were dispatched to Afghanistan extending the occupation in the war torn nation indefinitely without any respite from shelling and carnage.
Asia Pacific encountered Pivot Asia strategy under Barack Obama administration with provocative maneuvers escalating tension in that part of the world.
Under Barack Obama Presidency – Africa was lot easier to be militarized with drones, military bases and weapons cache to rebels protracting civil wars and interventions like in Sudan splitting the largest North African nation into Sudan and South Sudan with never ending conflict.
In south Asia, Barack Obama administration authorized predator drones in Muslim countries Pakistan and Afghanistan chasing men, women and children from their humble dwellings banned existence in their homeland in the irony on protest to Muslim travel ban now. The drone targeted east African Muslim country Somalia as well.
Middle East transformed into perennial turmoil with overt supply of arms and ammunitions to terror factions relocated from Libya and Afghanistan.
The middle east peace process consistently stifled with the administration’s veto at UNSC amid authorizing U.S. tax fund $38 billion dollars to Israel’s military aid over ten years beginning in middle of 2016 despite Israel’s contentious settlement activity. Any tail end gesture with abstinence at UNSC highlights duplicity.
The blood rivers in Syria, Iraq, Lebanon, Libya and Yemen enabled in the military and financial assistance to terror outfits and dictatorial regimes in Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain and lackeys viz. Turkey leadership Recep Tayyip Erdogan obliging Barack Obama administration instruction to provide shelter to terror recruits defined as moderate terrorists against Syria.
Nuclear proliferation amongst prominent nuclear powers expanded with subterranean nuclear testing under water and overland carried out unabated in the same breadth criticizing other nations nuclear ambitions aimed at deterrence as dangerous and contemptuous.
The former President Barack Obama came to power with Super Pac funding and mega donations from Goldman Sachs and big wigs in Wall Street.
The administration had cabinet members like Larry Summers who quit midway in the first term and Timothy Geithner unapologetic tax evasions heading Treasury in the second term. These individuals profile were well known as Wall Street bankers. Likewise, the other key posts from Defense to Commerce and Justice were not mainstream category either.
The corruption charges against former Attorney General Eric Holder declining to show any interest in Wall Street bankers and financial institutions mortgage fraud among several other findings on unlawful practices confirms the revolving door between Wall Street and Washington.
Accordingly, the tradition of exchanging favors following political win judiciously continued under Barack Obama Presidency evidently erased from media and loyalists database.
Barack Obama administration domestic policy – the Bush tax cuts to wealthy were preserved burdening the middle class and actual tax payers in the economy.
On health care reform – Obamacare imposition of mandatory insurance subscription with penalty upon failure to comply is a bonanza to health insurance industry gaining 30 million subscribers through legislation.
Financial reform – Dodd – Frank act leaving several loopholes to satisfy Wall Street bankers requirements and incorporating former Federal Reserve Chairman and Bilderberg group elite member Paul Volcker rule was not entirely an effective measure to restrict financial institutions from conducting business as usual.
Not to mention Senator Chris Dodd and Vice President Joe Biden as well as some republican lawmakers’ family affiliation as Wall Street lobbyists compromising any regulations and enactment.
Furthermore, the formidable 1933 Glass Steagall Banking Act long regarded an obstacle for Wall Street private endeavors was repealed in 1999 during democrat Bill Clinton administration paving way for successor Republican George W. Bush administration carte blanche authority resulting in 2008 recession and housing market debacle.
In this context, the Obama Affordable Housing Act continues to mislead homeowners ending in foreclosures than necessary relief in home retention critical to protect housing market and job creations in construction industry.
Environment – Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton scuttled Copenhagen COP 15 treaty exacerbated environmental challenges for developing countries and island nations bearing the brunt on unusual weather conditions that are not addressed in Paris climate pact.
Social Issues – Regardless of clamor and denials, the rise in African American deaths under Black Presidency is an irrefutable reality. Additionally, the unemployment and homelessness amongst blacks compared to other racial demography increased in the absence of specific program to improve the disadvantaged situation.
There is one aspect of law enforcement clashes with black citizens and then the other black mistreatment by Black Presidency demonstrated in the Secret Service and Washington D.C. Police fired bullets at unarmed civilian – the young black mother Miriam Iris Carey with her thirteen months old daughter Erica in the back seat on October 3rd, 2013 at the White House doorstep is reprehensible.
Subsequently refusing the victim’s family request to allow the child to attend her mother’s funeral could only be interpreted as power corrupts human mind and absolute power endanger safety and security of anyone not within the circle.
Then on July 19, 2010 African American citizen Shirley Sherrod, Director, Georgia State Rural Department for United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) was a casualty of political expediency.
Shirley Sherrod was unfairly fired by President Barack Obama in reaction to Fox News aired doctored videotape.
Troy Anthony Davis – the African American executed on September 21, 2011 in the southern state of Georgia through lethal injection that could have been averted with a Presidential pardon then reversing the trend on history repeating itself in reminiscent of plantation era.
On the topic of billionaires flocking the present administration, that should not be a surprise considering money and politics are intertwined with one aiding another and vice versa.
The media frenzy on the new administration representation with billionaires obviously neglects the important factor about the previous administration entry into White House with maxed out credit cards and exit with phenomenal bank balance and offshore accounts qualifying membership in billionaire club.
Politics double standards are nothing new. Nonetheless the ex-President Barack Obama message to homeowners losing their homes was one should live within means and not exceed affordability. Although the advice for any other item would be appropriate, the investment in home for living would be evaluated on sustainability.
Interestingly the same was not applied to President and family extravagant vacations at taxpayer expense to a tune of $100 million on a single African Safari trip when the rest of the country was struggling to make ends meet in the sluggish economy at that time.
To summarize Barack Obama Presidency – the proof of the pudding is in the eating and aptly reflected in the elections 2010 to 2016 not excluding the unsuccessful Summer Olympic bid for 2016 in Chicago.
The administration legacy espousing violence and shunning transparency exemplified in the emergence of ISIS and downward spiraling in humanitarian cause for a Nobel Peace Prize winner.
Too good to be true on campaign trail perhaps proved to be as such.
Peace to all!
Thank you.
Padmini Arhant
Author & Presenter PadminiArhant.com
Spouse in Divine Mission
United States – Presidential Race
September 20, 2015
By Padmini Arhant
United States Presidential race is nothing more than a charade. The political event is now an entertainment to resurrect lack luster main stream media rating besides deflecting public attention from core national and international issues concerning humanity at large.
Since the forces such as Wall Street, AIPAC, NRA, religious zealots and institutions representing imperial agenda – operating behind the scenes govern the political system,
United States electorate could be spared from huge liability with elections costing taxpayers enormous amount to legitimize illegitimate authority.
Office of Presidency is a mere formality for campaign bidders holding exclusive rights on candidacies depriving the nation of republic status.
Accordingly, the Presidential election organizers could save money and instead purchase rubber stamp bearing the designation – President of the United States considering name and political affiliations are irrelevant in the contemporary trend.
The seriousness of political governance would matter upon terminating incognito.power.
More on this to follow in due course.
Peace to all!
Thank you.
Padmini Arhant
United States – Wall Street and Washington Job Action
October 15, 2011
By Padmini Arhant
American families across the nation are hurting from the tough economic times with layoffs, housing market decline, credit crunch and expensive health care costs taking toll on middle class, lower income groups and small businesses all over.
Main Street justified frustration over high unemployment; unlawful foreclosures and unaffordable health care expenses are demonstrated in ‘Occupy Wall Street’ protests spreading within and outside the country.
Protestors could peacefully assemble near Capitol Hill and the White House for reminder on the unresolved economic problems and social inequality in the United States and abroad.
As for Washington measures on jobs – the lawmakers failed to pass the jobs bill this week and,
Instead approved free trade agreements with South Korea, Colombia and Peru. respectively for manufacturing jobs at home although,
The legislative success is dependent on the trading partners’ reciprocation i.e. the consumer demand and affordability for American goods.
Meanwhile, U.S. Congress has agreed on payroll tax holiday and unemployment insurance extension that are positive steps with immediate relief for the jobless and those facing retrenchment in the uncertain economic environment.
If both parties in the House and Senate could set aside the political differences for common goals,
Perhaps it would facilitate job growth in private and public sectors essential for economic revival.
Addressing the serious housing crisis with lenders unlawful practices is pertinent for the following reasons:
Improper foreclosures is depriving American homeowners ownership allowing foreign investor frenzy to capitalize on the American plight that needs to be fixed considering,
The mortgage securities as derivatives component are tied to overseas assets.
Furthermore, there are inherent risks involved in such investments due to short-term selling and swap agreements generating volatility in the global market.
Notwithstanding the equity transfer from domestic to offshore holdings embedded in the sovereign wealth funds cause political concerns besides economic turbulence in the globalized economy.
Remedies to these ramifications lies with Congress in easing the burden on home owners through effective strategies such as –
Resurrecting foreclosure moratorium enabling homeowners to renegotiate mortgages with property reevaluation to current market value and,
Payment modification per existing rates would protect American interests in the desperate housing situation.
The home loans revision for families regardless of hierarchy on the verge of losing homes could reverse the trend and boost jobs in the construction industry and service sector.
Any relief thus far is limited to conventional practices with the bulk of the homeowners left at the mercy of lenders’ discretion often premised on short-term gains suppressing the housing market rebound.
While the taxpayer bailouts based on ‘too big to fail’ salvaged the default banking industry despite the illegal sub-prime mortgage activities,
The delinquent homeowners are forced to deal with contrary response ranging from aggressive evictions to unreasonable payment options.
The banks were rescued unconditionally and the financial institutions in return have not only restrained money supply prolonging the credit crunch but also denied majority homeowners refinancing opportunity and small business entrepreneurs capital infusion.
Wall Street with substantial cash reserves could create and retain employment rather than preparing to slash 10,000 finance jobs in the coming months that would exacerbate the dire economy.
Corporations’ role confined to economic development with disengagement from political governance through lobbyists would promote government functionality and efficacy in legislative matter.
Companies incentivized with Bush tax cuts extension have failed to deliver the anticipated job growth and expansion only to be substituted by job reduction and/or exports contributing to national debt and trade deficit.
Repealing Bush tax cuts and redirecting financial resources to organizations committed to domestic jobs would enhance free market performance.
Micro-credits is yet another avenue to empower business proprietorship and alleviate economic pain from unemployment status.
Communities with alarming jobless rate could potentially utilize micro-credit facility for self-employment and niche market.
United States is endowed with skilled work force, ingenuity and innovative talent leading in sophisticated technology and other global achievements that revolutionized urban lifestyle.
U.S. workers productivity resulted in economic boom worldwide supporting developing economies to advance at a phenomenal pace.
There is an urgent requirement to turn U.S. economy around with Corporations assuming primary responsibility in providing jobs, liquidity and restoring homes for American families.
U.S. economic recovery is paramount for Wall Street and Washington.
Corporations cannot exist without workers and politics would desist in the absence of electorate.
Citizens’ grievances are real and legitimate – the economic issues cannot be resolved without political will and corporate investments in domestic economy.
Government and Corporations expediting job oriented economic surge is the universal expectation with millions of lives in jeopardy.
Corporate and Political leaderships are urged to prioritize American jobs, housing, health and business prospects over personal aspirations and partisanship.
Global recession could be contained upon U.S. economic progress.
Action and not procrastination would guarantee the desirable outcome.
Hopefully rationality would prevail in arriving at consensus on economic solutions.
Peace to all!
Thank you.
Padmini Arhant
G20 and Global Economy – Fiscal Policy
October 9, 2011
By Padmini Arhant
Amid weak global economy largely contributed to United States and European sluggish growth compounded with other economic woes like high unemployment, inflation and,
National budget confined to austerity and controversial tax hikes or tax-cuts is a phenomenal challenge confronting the industrialized and developing nations.
Beginning with industrialized economies – the economic stimulus since recession onset was aimed at growth surge and job creation, facilitating liquidity to overcome credit crunch following financial markets reaction to derivatives discrepancies in the deregulated environment.
The steps involved Capital supply to salvage targeted high-end manufacturing industry from bankruptcy and banks bailouts in eliminating toxic assets from the balance sheets respectively.
Among the industrialized groups – the two major economies viz. the United States and Japan share mutual setbacks from overheating of the economy in two familiar areas – the stocks and housing market.
Both nations have struggled to jumpstart the economy with steady growth exacerbated by global recession and sovereign debt.
Speculations on European national debt and potential credit default overall impact on euro as the European Union currency and Euro Zone status in the globalized economy foment market volatility.
Economic forecasts and projections weighed in objectivity could avoid unnecessary market turbulence.
Japan is also burdened with U.S debt as the second largest creditor behind China – the primary creditor and the second largest economy.
In order to address various economic problems and avert possible Double-dip recession,
It is necessary to review public policies and economic tools that are available for short term and long-term objectives.
Fiscal Policy (Balancing the Budget), Monetary Policy (Controlling inflation and liquidity), Trade Policy (Growth and Investment),
Additionally Revenue and Spending for efficient government functionality and deficit reduction could broaden perspectives on this critical matter.
Fiscal Policy – Comprising government expenditure and taxation, non-tax revenue from government owned investments and utilizing government assets such as bonds and other suitable financial instruments for borrowing to meet government obligations.
United States and Europe focus is on budget approval with the dilemma on spending cuts along with taxation being contentious leading to opposition’s government shut down ultimatums causing political gridlock in the U.S,
Notwithstanding justified public frustration over fund slashing for education, health care, pension plans and most importantly lack of jobs triggering riots in London, Paris, Athens, Madrid and Lisbon…calling for government actions to deteriorating economic conditions.
United States citizens protest against Wall Street conduct premised on greed driven strategies responsible for the status quo is slighted with –
White House clarification on the issue as –
“Wall Street ill-practices are not necessarily illegal.”
The sub-prime mortgage activities having deprived more than million homeowners ownership and economies facing insolvency in the hedge fund debacle,
Financial institutions’ exorbitant fee on banking transactions and consensus to stranglehold consumers despite banking industry dependency upon them is a kamikaze effort given the flawed tradition proved detrimental to global economy.
Corporations and finance industry consumer-friendly approach would not only guarantee significant consumer base but also enhance good will – a valuable asset in the competitive setting.
Fiscal policy effectiveness is largely related to both spending and revenue trends with immediate requirement on tax reform.
They are summarized as follows:
Closing loopholes used in tax evasion,
Tracking funds in offshore tax havens for individuals and corporations.
Mandatory disclosure of financial assets for high profile and rank and file public figures on taxpayers funded income viz. legislators, Parliamentarians, Cabinet secretaries, Political party leaderships regardless of hierarchy, kickbacks donors and recipients in the private and public domain.
Easing tax burden on the middle class,
Tax exemption for the lower income groups and,
Tax structure readjustment – the bipartisan Super committee appointed for fiscal management in the United States could enforce repealing the Bush tax cuts to the wealthiest passed in 2010 and implementing the popular Buffet Rule in 2011 through legislation.
In a broader sense, consumption tax could be marginally raised with the exception of essential food items and reallocated to health hazard products as well as luxury goods.
Taxes being predominant revenue source for government operation and capital formation yielding future benefits through infrastructure investments, research and development with patent law protecting consumer and investor interests, the ultimate target is job growth.
Passing the jobs bill – beginning with small business, medium and large corporations, manufacturing and service industry incentivized with capital interjection in the form of commercial loans at affordable rates and/or various taxes like payroll taxes reduction, deferments where applicable is a top priority transcending political partisanships and myopic view on the economic problems in the near and foreseeable term.
Exploring non-tax revenue in government owned corporations or quasi undertakings (public and private sector ventures) and,
Central Banks monitored sovereign wealth funds (SWF) primarily invested in global equity markets maximizing long term return alongside Foreign exchange reserves typically held in international floats e.g. U.S. dollar, euro, yen and sterling pound facilitate short term liquidity flow for capital infusion.
Spending is the balancing act that requires eliminating wasteful expenditures, trimming or downsizing overheads costs, maintaining and restoring entitlements programs especially –
Social Security – Reiterating the fact as the only safety net for American families enduring tough economic situation and non-interference in this regard would continue to deliver the desirable result.
Privatization would seriously jeopardize the financial security sustained in the current profitable investment for continuous payments necessary to stimulate the economy via consumer spending and growth expansion.
Medicare – Senior citizens and low-income demography – the two key consumer categories would be forced to spend meager savings and income on expensive health care costs other than prescription drugs that could otherwise be diversified in retail consumption.
Norwegian model in this respect has successfully integrated essential social services like retirement, medical and disability benefits to all with capital investment in public trust.
As part of income redistribution the island nation with GDP per capita $53,269 ranked 3rd highest in the world consisting high living standards compared to European counterparts has managed against poverty, hunger and disease – the three survival factors posing impediments in progress for developed and developing nations.
Norway affected by European debt crisis is experiencing decline in high-end manufacturing similar to Germany with 40% GDP attributed to exports relying on global demand.
Defense Spending – United States Global Empire established far and wide with 737 U.S. Military bases and more than 2,500,000 personnel deployed overseas in different locations is astounding and,
Unfortunately escapes the fiscal conservatives attention preoccupied in terminating social security, Medicare, Children nutrition… and other vital provisions in the entitlements for vulnerable population at home.
Not to mention the no-exit strategy wars in Afghanistan, Iraq and Pakistan with extended proxy wars in Yemen and Somalia taking human and economic toll to serve the defense industry profitability.
It is high time to review and reevaluate the defense budget saving trillions of dollars by ending foreign occupations and military warfare.
Instead upgrading national security mechanisms and facilities with sophisticated forces would be a formidable deterrent to potential threats.
Simultaneously defense divestments in economic and social development achieved with political stability in war torn nations would be more effective in containing terrorism considering the military aggression thus far has failed to produce any positive outcome.
Furthermore, the prolonged military intervention has contributed to terror networks proliferation and instigated violence against fellow citizens causing regional tension and instability witnessed in Pakistan, Afghanistan, Iraq and Somalia.
Hence retracting military aspirations to accommodate all-encompassing domestic goals is desperately needed to expedite national and global economic recovery.
Discretionary Spending – Congressional discernment in appropriations act preserving job oriented and community enrichment projects would supplement remedies for economic revival.
Equilibrium in fiscal policy with spending streamlined and revenue boosted through fair taxation and,
Other avenues like penalties in environmental damage,
Hikes in licensing fee where appropriate – anything endangering life and economic opportunity without aiming at average citizens or natural endowments for direct public use could complement measures in economic meltdown reversal.
Macroeconomic, Monetary and Trade policy together with European Sovereign Debt Crisis centralized on (PIGS) Portugal, Italy, Ireland, Iceland, Greece and Spain economies will be presented individually for clarity.
Meanwhile, getting the fiscal house in order to promote jobs with government and business cooperation would prevent economic crises escalation.
Peace to all!
Thank you.
Padfmini Arhant
World Economic Forum 2011 – Davos, Switzerland
January 28, 2011
By Padmini Arhant
The world economic forum is currently held in Davos, Switzerland. Many issues apart from the economy are discussed at this large consortium.
Economy is the priority for the population struggling with high unemployment, housing market decline from foreclosures in addition to credit crunch experienced by potential home buyers and small businesses alike.
The bank bailouts to eliminate toxic assets off the balance sheet and facilitate lending has been mostly utilized for mergers and acquisitions with ‘too big to fail’ status intact – the precise factor that prompted taxpayer funds interjection into the crumbling finance industry.
Corporate profits across the industrial spectrum are exceedingly high not barring financial institutions yet the jobless rate and liquidity in the credit market is stagnant exacerbating the ordinary citizens’ plight.
Manufacturing sector is drastically affected in the globalized economy. The developed and developing nations are confronted with reviving blue collar jobs desperately required to ease suffering among the working class.
Corporations incentivized with generous tax cuts, taxpayer funded capital infusion and labor unions suppression continue to venture overseas in search of mega profits ultimately shared among top management through huge bonuses while depriving the hard working majority the livelihood.
The offshore dealings might be lucrative for the corporate shareholders and the respective governments with foreign exchange reserves, the labor force over there are marginalized in terms of comparable wages and employment benefits.
Again factory workers in poorer nations are often exploited under harsh economic and political conditions attributed to multinational dominance in the regions receptive to foreign investors.
Environment abuse in the globalization era has been catastrophic for the poorest people living near the industrial sites.
The weak environment standards maintained predominantly to accommodate energy, pharmaceutical…industries’ policies in the developing nations are proved detrimental to the local residents diagnosed with serious health problems.
In the industrialized world, the lower income groups are exposed to health hazards emanating from chemical industrial waste and oil spills witnessed lately with pervasive impact on all living species.
Therefore the corporate ethical conduct in the domestic and international operations deserves attention with effective remedies to restore meaningful capitalism and globalization pursuit.
Inflation is a legitimate concern without having to raise interest rates in borrowing given the real estate slump and limited credit availability having a stranglehold on the national economies.
In order to increase supply to the growing demands of any goods as an alternative inflation control measure – the businesses need finance in the prevalent restricted credit facilities and the banks with capital have responsibility to lend qualified entrepreneurs thereby promoting job growth, consumer spending and investor confidence – all relevant to stimulate the global economy.
The bankers’ claiming the existing credit control is the result of the regulatory imposition in the wake of sub-prime and hedge fund mis-management does not bode well,
Since they could not apply to all financial products that could otherwise paralyze the credit networks representing the fundamental economic source.
Sound monetary policy allowing responsible money circulation and the currency value determined by market forces rather than arbitrary means could prevent currency devaluation disputes and trade wars contributing to disproportionate surpluses and deficits among economic powers.
Fiscal policy is focused on deficit reduction through austerity mainly targeting programs like health and education for the most vulnerable demographics.
Denying affordable educational access to present generation is prohibiting better economic future made possible with qualified efficient workforce and taxpayers in the competitive global settings.
Spending cuts in alarming defense expenditure and redundant wasteful projects instead of life dependent programs and services could produce desirable results in debt containment besides a healthy productive society benefitting all.
Generating revenue in the absence of tax hikes on the extraordinary income derived from the collective input distributed within privileged members in the society is evidently counterproductive for it escalates national debt other than widening the gap between the rich and poor.
Economic activities for growth stimulus are largely related to melting the liquidity freeze to enable cash strapped small businesses, retailers and manufacturers create jobs.
Resuming lending services to home buyers upon satisfying the eligibility criteria and refinancing options to help default home owners retain their property instead of losing in foreclosures with a negative impact on the national housing sales including the construction industry is guaranteed to expedite recovery.
Transparency in derivatives with mortgage securities identified as the primary cause in the 2008 financial market brink of collapse would build trust in the international security exchange.
Interest rates, transaction fees on credit cards and regular bank accounts still remain exorbitant despite the regulation passed to curb practices that led to phenomenal debt accumulation and bankruptcies in the United States.
Failure in adherence to legislation on predatory methods has no consequences with the banks conducting business as usual delineating Wall Street from Main Street.
The reforms in general are circumvented due to loopholes in the legislation and the political clout displayed with industry lobbyists winning $19 billion tax exemptions in financial reform, no premium caps in health care law, offshore drilling permits…confirming Wall Street control over U.S. political election and legislation.
Investments in infrastructure, green energy, innovative research and development in science and technology is paramount in the protectionist aspect.
However, there is no momentum in expediting projects perhaps due to inadequate funding and/or political reasons.
The industrialized and emerging economies pledge to the developing nations has not been delivered in action on the economy and environment that could essentially alleviate poverty, hunger and disease endured by many across the globe.
Political instability arising from oppression i.e. lack of freedom and individual rights is prompting citizens’ protest against repressive governments sheltered until now with diplomatic ties and trade relationships by powerful ‘democracies.’
Civilian uprising in Egypt and Yemen reveal the breaking point in public frustration towards
authoritarianism. Political independence in these countries is long overdue.
The overthrown government heads of the state are provided refuge as seen with Tunisian former President Ben Ali received by Saudi Arabia.
These events are indicative of the established complacency to undemocratic elements disrupting political, economic and social progress.
United States, France and Saudi Arabia were reportedly involved in Lebanon’s recent political fallout disabling government services in the sovereign nation.
Reluctance to expand U.N. Security Council permanent membership in acknowledgment of twenty first century geopolitical dynamics is an impediment to world peace. The ongoing polarization efforts foment terrorism and militancy used as the perpetual warfare premise.
Hence international solidarity exemplified in rejecting the status quo is imperative for fair distribution of global resources, honoring individual liberty, political rights, social equality ultimately leading to universal economic prosperity.
World economic forum is a unique opportunity to resolve myriad humanitarian challenges through constructive dialogue and powerful strategies for a new peaceful beginning.
Wishing a successful economic summit in Davos, Switzerland.
Thank you.
Padmini Arhant
Unemployment Benefits, Tax cuts with Skyrocketing Deficit
December 17, 2010
By Padmini Arhant
The bill is passed in the Senate and currently making its way in the House of Congress despite the legislation’s long term repercussions on national deficit and social security.
In the deal struck between the current Republican minority and the White House – the deficit spending through tax cuts extension for the 1% wealthiest including estate tax concessions is hailed as a bipartisan victory against the overwhelming public opposition to the reckless compromise.
As stated earlier in the article titled Bush tax cuts, Unemployment benefits and National deficit, December 7, 2010 published on this website – the average Americans are burdened with the liability from the tax credit to the super-rich.
They are being punished for the unemployment benefits extension, child tax breaks and college tuition credits in the bill – the combined costs of these desperately required provisions is significantly lower than the over $700 billion expense from the tax cuts to the top 1% wealthy in the country resulting in the total spending of $858 billion added to the skyrocketing national debt.
The two year tax cuts to the affluent members in the society are expected to become permanent and the social security with payroll tax holiday targeted for privatization potentially wiping out the only safety net for the retirees while the retirement period prolonged to offset national spending.
It is a remarkable win for the Republican minority soon to be the majority in the House with further representation in the Senate.
Unfortunately the voices for the average Americans in Congress are drowned by the political agenda to implement policies aimed at gains in the short-run with no due concern for future ramifications on the fiscal irresponsibility.
The strange partnership with similar motives is a sheer betrayal having been elected with the overwhelming democratic base votes and thus far delivering to the campaign financiers in Wall Street and military industry complex.
Beginning with Health Care Reform – the mandatory health care subscription without reining in on the health insurance industry and Bigpharma protocol alone is a huge setback for the vulnerable majority – the sick, the middle income and the senior citizens.
Likewise in the financial sector regulation – the $19 billion tax exemption to Wall Street – the primary source for the global economic recession is a major boost to conduct business as usual weakening the regulatory impact.
The Republican vote favoring Wall Street sought by the White House against a democratic vote seeking robust measures blocking loopholes to avert repeat economic disaster is disillusionment and disappointment for the electorate anticipating real change that also in part contributed to the midterm election outcome.
In the areas of warfare and foreign policy – the Bush-Cheney hawkish strategies vigorously carried out tarnishing the national image and seriously jeopardizing credibility in the international domain.
Now with the Bush tax cuts agreement to protect the wealthy is an affirmation of the ideological priorities substantially affecting the national deficit in addition to widening the gap between the haves and the have-nots.
It is clear from these developments that democratic aspirations in terms of industry regulation, effective economic policy, peace and diplomacy against nuclear threats continue to remain far-fetched objectives when acceding to Republican demands and upholding oligarchy principles – profit by any means even if it is proved detrimental to vast population and national interest.
Considering the status quo the only hope to restore democratic values and pragmatism is the substantial public participation in the legislative process through various communication channels conveying the message not only to their elected representatives but also the executive branch for the evident complacency.
Only the citizens’ will to enforce change at the political, economic and social fronts could lead to desirable progress in a democratic system.
Democracy is functional when the government of the people committed to the electorate entrusting power for collective actions benefiting all rather than the privileged members in the society.
History is testimony to the fact that people power never failed in challenging any rule other than the republic.
Thank you.
Padmini Arhant
Midterm Elections 2010
November 4, 2010
By Padmini Arhant
Congratulations! To the Congressional members from both political parties on their victory in the 2010 midterm elections.
The Republican members experience on November 2, 2010 is similar to the Democrats 2006 election results.
Regardless, all contenders deserve praise and recognition for their tireless campaigning in the political race.
The Democrats dedicated their valuable time and resources to improve American lives.
Speaker Nancy Pelosi, The House Financial Services Committee Chairman Barney Franks and other honorable Congressional representatives worked diligently and demonstrated commitment.
Likewise, the isolated Republican members’ contribution is equally valid in the legislative matter.
Welcome to the New House Speaker – The Hon. Rep. John Boehner.
Rep. John Boehner’s remarkable life journey to attain the American dream is admirable.
The Republican majority in the House beginning January 2011 have an opportunity to resolve the national crises.
Any solutions to the contentious problems are meaningless if they fail to address the average citizens’ plight and protect national interest over special interests.
Hopefully both sides will set the differences aside and work together in alleviating the main street struggles. Washington gridlock is the reason for the alternation in the Capitol Hill.
If the political parties cannot arrive at a consensus on legislative affairs, it defeats the purpose of winning elections.
There were many surprises and setbacks in the electoral outcome. Democracy being undermined in contemporary politics is not unusual and conspicuous during elections with corporate cash drowning the republic voice.
In other instances, candidacies unfairly targeted to settle political scores contributed to the elimination of veteran political figures with exemplary record.
Politics ignoring merits and rewarding misrepresentation is a travesty and a national loss.
The mandate is clear underscoring the republic rule – Washington is required to deliver the campaign promises and not a political rhetoric.
Unfortunately the tradition continues with any administration in the absence of real change causing public frustration and disappointment reflected in the electoral backlash.
Among many national issues, the economy is a primary concern with stagnant growth in the job market. Foreclosures, liquidity freeze… and other economic hurdles in the Housing and Financial sector are far from over.
There are many challenges ahead and now it depends on the Republican majority to coordinate with the Democratic minority in the House to prevail in all fronts.
Transparency and accountability is realistic when it is applicable to all – given Washington clout and Wall Street influence on the political parties.
The key industries monopoly on the legislation is the deterrent factor producing watered down reforms directly affecting the economic conditions and the national deficit.
In the environmental matter the California ballot measure – Prop. 23 successfully prevented the oil companies’ dominance and their polluting strategies. The action saved the rapidly growing clean energy sector currently providing 500,000 jobs.
The environmental organizations such as Earthjustice and several prominent groups along with committed supporters were responsible for the phenomenal intervention.
Synonymous steps by other states on public issues yielded the desirable change.
People power can never be underestimated in any form of government. Throughout history, political transformations, social and economic progress have been made possible by people movement exemplifying that ordinary citizens are capable of extraordinary achievements.
Therefore, if legislations are controlled by affluent sources empowered with the lack of political will in Washington then the citizens’ response – ‘change course’ is inevitable and effectively conveyed through ballots.
It is imperative for all factions to come together and consolidate efforts in leading the great nation forward. Nation thrives with prosperity accessible to all and not just the privileged members in the society.
Good Luck! To the newly elected Congress in reaching the anticipated milestones.
Thank you.
Padmini Arhant
Economy – The Job Factor
September 7, 2010
By Padmini Arhant
The major national concern among the American families are finding and retaining jobs.
There is no doubt that jobs are Democrats’ priority in the Republicans created deficit economy.
Not surprisingly, the response to unveiling the economic plan at this time is “Too little, too late.”
It confirms political expediency to oppose the Obama initiatives rather than extending bipartisan support to help the President save American jobs.
Contrary to the political mindset in the election year, it’s never too late to rescue American workforce and people in distress.
With the high unemployment in certain parts of the country such as Ohio, California, Nevada, Pennsylvania, Indiana…the workers disappointment and voters’ anxiety is about the jobs and the economy.
President Barack Obama eloquently laid out some job aspects in Milwaukee, Wisconsin on Labor Day. The infrastructure proposal for repair, restoration and rebuilding America has great potential for jobs in the construction and service industry.
The President also clarified on the self-funding of the $50 billion job creation plan. Allocating the revenue from tax loopholes is fiscally responsible for it would not affect the contentious national deficit.
Moreover, the remaining funds from the earlier $787 billion stimulus bill allocated towards infrastructure could be verified and appropriated around this time.
Another bill that requires the legislators’ immediate attention is the $30 billion funding to community banks for small business lending in the worst hit areas of the economy. Again identifying wasteful spending to pay for the short and long term job opportunities is economically prudent.
The American plight from coast to coast is clearly visible seeking attention from both the private and public sector. Perhaps, the bipartisan recognition to set the political differences aside and work towards a common goal in the economic revival benefits all.
Those who are opposed to government spending to create jobs need to focus on the economic outcome i.e. helping American families with income that eventually returns to the government through consumer spending and taxes.
Unlike the same opponents’ “no-objection” on defense expenditure for warfare not only consumes enormous budget proportion but also contributes to the national deficit – prominently the two simultaneous wars in Iraq and Afghanistan that triggered the rising deficit problem during the former Republican administration led by President George W. Bush and Vice President Dick Cheney.
On the Democrat side, easing taxations on Corporations pledged to generate jobs has already been enacted in 2009. Further, facilitating job growth in the manufacturing sector would minimize the blue collar job losses and boost the service industry alongside.
The national consortium comprising both private and public enterprises on job stimulus by exchanging ideas and resources is poignant to jumpstart the economy.
By providing specific reasons behind the recent layoffs and slow hiring, the Corporations representing the manufacturing, service and other industries could assist the legislators and federal authorities in understanding the issues – so that remedial measures are implemented for the much anticipated economic recovery.
Similarly, outreaching the small business and retail communities for the targeted assistance would bring relief to the struggling American families.
It’s not sufficient to display mere empathy in these tough economic times. Consumers and businesses are looking for simple to innovative solutions in accelerating the job growth.
Financial sectors have not complied with their end of the bargain in expediting job production, although it was among the criteria during the massive taxpayer bailout in 2008 and 2009.
Credit crunch still remains an economic impediment for small businesses and retailers. Household income having declined due to the job situation, lack of home equity and volatile investment returns are directly affecting consumer spending.
Monitoring the housing market by extending the foreclosure moratorium, $8000 first home buyer credit and affordable refinancing could ease the burden on the homeowners besides improving national home sales figures. These concessions have been tried in 2009 and proved to be positive for the housing sector.
Social security is yet another priority for the baby boomers and retirees dependent on the income. The conservative candidates’ threat to privatize social security in any economic conditions is a political stance more than a pragmatic approach.
Job oriented economic resuscitation is much anticipated among the American workforce and made possible with the combined economic decisions from the private, state and federal institutions.
Above all, the legislators’ bipartisan actions in addressing the serious unemployment status serve as the litmus test for the congressional candidates in the coming elections.
The incumbents and the new candidates have much better prospects of prevailing upon their legitimate demonstration including actions to invigorate job market rather than criticism on the unemployment data.
Jobs are justifiably the primary expectations among the American electorate. Therefore, the private, the state and the federal investments in this respect is paramount.
While the private sector flourishes from consumer spending and investor holdings, the government will gain from tax revenues.
There is no time to procrastinate on this matter as American families are striving hard to provide for their loved ones and a majority of them are in dire financial crisis.
Hopefully, the lawmakers, corporate executives and the economists’ collective actions will soothe the economic pain experienced by many working families in the harsh and competitive job environment.
Your concerted efforts will be appreciated by the suffering American workforce when the economy turns around for common good.
Thank you.
Padmini Arhant
2010 Elections – The Balance of Power
September 6, 2010
By Padmini Arhant
With less than eight weeks for the mid-term elections, the speculations are the GOP will claim the House and the House majority leader will be John Boehner. Similarly, the speculators believe the GOP has a slim chance of taking over the U.S. Senate.
In view of the optimistic Republican forecast as potential majority House members it’s essential to review the GOP plans for the nation.
Currently, the GOP mantra is the economy they successfully transformed into near ‘Great Depression,’ during their majority rule in the House and Senate under the Republican administration of the former President George W. Bush and the Vice President Dick Cheney.
The Republicans might fervently argue that the Democrats controlled the House and the Senate since 2006.
Although it’s a valid argument, the Republican members always gain control over legislation regardless of them being the majority or the minority due to their allegiance to the special interests devising the bills in Capitol Hill.
Moreover, the former President George W. Bush vowed to veto the bills passed by the Congressional Democrats on every issue and the veto record exemplifies the oath.
Per the leading conservative talk show host complimenting on the previous Republican administration – “President George W. Bush was not the lame duck for the agendas were pushed against the Democrats will.”
The comment is accurate in that respect – prominently the Iraq war, financial deregulation, blank check to Wall Street and tax exemptions to the wealthy by letting the middle class America disappear with the lower income families in poverty were all the Republican achievements that drove the surplus economy into skyrocketing deficit mostly blown away in the illegal warfare.
The GOP economic plan is none and their winning strategy in the coming elections,
According to Wall Street Journal, September 2, 2010 – By David Wessel – Thank you.
“Republican rhetoric offers little help. To the quiet discomfort of a few GOP politicians and several who advise Republicans on economics, this year’s campaign, so far, has little of the substance that accompanied the 1994 Republican renaissance with then-House leader Newt Gingrich’s “Contract with America.
The only sure thing is that if President Barack Obama is for it, Republicans are against it.
Comments by Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell a few weeks ago are typical:
If a bill doesn’t kill jobs or make it harder to create them, they’re not interested. It’s time for a different approach.”
This may be smart politics. Why be specific and give the other side a target, when you’re winning by riding a wave of voter frustration: Don’t like the Obama economy? Vote for us.
The closest Republicans come to a public economic agenda are speeches by their House leader, John Boehner, who promises more detail later this month to blunt Democratic efforts to paint Republicans as the “Party of No.”
For now, a few themes are evident.
One is that the spending-heavy Obama is a failure, often extrapolated into arguing that government spending is inherently bad.
“The common logic among Washington Democrats is that government spending creates jobs when that money is used to build a hiking trail or a playground,” Mr. Boehner said, disapprovingly, during an Aug. 24 speech in Cleveland.
Adds GOP Rep. Paul Ryan: “We are not Keynesians. We don’t believe in demand-side stimulus. We’re going to stop the spending spree.”
That’s easier to promise than do. Even spending foes, once in office, tend to spend.
“Prior to the Democrats’ takeover of the Congress and the White House in 2008, the Republicans ushered in the largest expansion of federal spending since the heydays of Lyndon Johnson’s Great Society in the 1960s,” says Alaska’s Joe Miller, who beat incumbent Sen. Lisa Murkowski in the Republican primary.
“You’re going to have a whole bunch of people coming here who aren’t going to want to vote for any spending bill—maybe defense? Maybe not?—to fund the government,” predicts Vin Weber, a former Republican congressman. That could force GOP leaders to rely on Democratic votes for spending bills to keep the government running, hardly a recipe for curbing spending.
The leadership’s avowed interest in promoting free-trade pacts, for instance, may not be shared by the populist Republicans who are winning primaries.
The absence of a coherent Republican agenda reflects more than the usual lack of consensus. The gap between current congressional leaders and tea-party activists is huge.”
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GOP Economic Plan Overview – By Padmini Arhant
There is no economic plan upon Rep. John Boehner assuming House leadership and likewise in the Senate.
Except for extending the 2000 – 2008 President Bush and Vice President Cheney’s failed economic policy.
1. Renewing all the Bush tax cuts is a top GOP priority.
2. Business friendly tax cuts enabling massive Wall Street CEO Bonuses.
3. A big corporate tax overhaul that cuts rates now – Inevitably depriving revenue for the nation, besides widening the national deficit to an alarming proportion – precedence set by the Republican administration with unique expertise in this regard.
Ironically, it’s also the GOP’s main criticism against President Barack Obama even though the President has diligently set up bipartisan committee on deficit control.
4. Promoting free trade pacts – outsourcing 90% American jobs overseas enlarging the unemployment indefinitely and facilitating,
5. Small businesses, Retail and Wholesale industry collapse from the lack of consumer spending.
On the contrary, the Congressional House Democrats under the efficient and result oriented Speaker Nancy Pelosi passed the following legislation – swiftly and favorably to all Americans including the Small Businesses and Corporations to promote job growth.
Ref: http://thomas.loc.gov/cgi-bin/bdquery/d?d111:0:./list/bss/d111HR.lst:
1. H.R.1: American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 – keeping 750,000 and more Americans employed with a significant rise in the immediate future upon complete investment.
2. H.R.2 : Children’s Health Insurance Program Reauthorization Act of 2009
3. H.R.11: Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act of 2009 – Guarantees equal pay for women that were denied by the Conservative Supreme Court votes followed by the Republican Senate coherence to the equal rights denial to women. The bill was passed through Democrats votes.
4. H.R.12: Paycheck Fairness Act – Subsequent to Republican Senate ‘Nay’ votes for equal pay to women, the matter was introduced through a new bill and passed with the Democrats votes.
5. H.R.13: TEACH for Our Future Act of 2009 – Focused on Higher Education, Lifelong Learning, and Competitiveness. Referred to the Subcommittee related to Higher Education…
6. H.R.14: Federal Ocean Acidification Research And Monitoring Act of 2009 – Referred to the House Committee on Science and Technology.
7. H.R.78: Stop Mortgage Fraud Act – Latest Major Action: 4/1/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee Hearings Held.
8. H.R.83: Homeowners Insurance Protection Act of 2009 – Latest Major Action: 1/6/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Financial Services.
9. H.R.84: Veterans Timely Access to Health Care Act – Latest Major Action: 3/25/2010 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.
10. H.R.74: Financial Oversight Commission Act of 2009 – Latest Major Action: 1/6/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Financial Services.
11. H.R.58: Green Schools Act – Latest Major Action: 3/16/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Early Childhood, Elementary, and Secondary Education.
12. . H.R.52: Tropical Forest and Coral Conservation Act – Latest Major Action: 1/6/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Foreign Affairs.
13. H.R.49: American Energy Independence and Price Reduction Act – Latest Major Action: 2/4/2009 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Energy and Mineral Resources.
14. H.R.47: Expand and Preserve Home Ownership through Counseling Act – Latest Major Action: 1/6/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Financial Services.
15. H.R.46: Family Self-Sufficiency Act of 2009 – Latest Major Action: 4/30/2009 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs.
16. H.R.43: Medicare Access to Rehabilitation Services Act of 2009 – Latest Major Action: 1/6/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, and in addition to the Committee on Ways and Means, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
17. H.R.21: Ocean Conservation, Education, and National Strategy for the 21st Century Act – Latest Major Action: 6/18/2009 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.
18. H.R.16: To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to make permanent the deduction of State and local general sales taxes – Latest Major Action: 1/6/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.
19. H.R.15: National Health Insurance Act – Latest Major Action: 1/6/2009 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, and in addition to the Committee on Ways and Means, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
20. Economic bills to stimulate job growth, Financial Reform, Health Care law, Unemployment Benefits extension and energy bill are the hallmark of Speaker Nancy Pelosi leadership.
Together with the extremely hardworking Democrat legislators alongside selective few Republican members votes made the historic legislation possible.
The choices are clear. American jobs, economy, education, health care, environment and energy independence are the Democrats priority.
Whereas the Republican leadership under John Boehner is clueless evidenced in the Wall Street Journal report and the minority leader’s interviews.
Why would the American electorate reject a bright future with Democrats under the leaderships of Speaker Nancy Pelosi in the House, Senate Democrats majority and President Barack Obama?
When they are all constantly engaged in improving American lives.
Quoting from the cited Wall Street Journal report –
“Many Republicans are running on “anger.” That may win the election; it’s hard to turn into a legislative agenda.”
Further, the Republican election winning strategy is to create a wedge between the solid Democrats working towards economic recovery and social progress. Usually it’s premised on distortion, false propaganda and negative attacks considering there is no specific economic or other proposals from them to move the nation forward.
GOP might have won in the past on divide and rule, polarization tactics. However, disregarding the reality on their track record that will be clarified and presented loud and clear to protect the American electorate from being misled in the coming weeks nearing election – is underestimating voter decision power.
After all, actions speak louder than rhetoric.
American voters’ prospects are assured under Democrats rule in the House, Senate and the White House.
The Republican action thus far has been protesting every legislation – particularly the jobs bill, economic revival such as unemployment extension, tax credits for consumer spending, payroll tax exemption to small businesses and corporations, $30 billion to community banks for small business lending…and,
Importantly they were against Wall Street reform and everything to do with national interest.
Republican candidates are hopeful in November 2010 to win the elections through their relentless support to Wall Street and the special interests’ campaign financing.
Unlike the Democrats accomplishments and future commitments towards American families and businesses that confirm their candidacy.
Please safeguard and secure your own, your family and the next generation’s prosperity by granting the Democrats a super majority status in the House and the Senate.
It’s well known that the Republican balance of power consistently produce “Washington gridlock,” – rewarding the special interests at the average American plight.
Allowing that to happen would be devastating for the national and global economy with slow and steady growth.
Notwithstanding history repeating itself reminiscent to 2000 – 2008 – President Bush and Vice President Cheney era.
Please visit the websites – www.dcccc.org, www.dscc.org. www.dnc.org and www.dga.org with your generous and affordable donations to help all Democratic contenders win the congressional election in November 2010.
Thank you.
Padmini Arhant
Health Insurance Industry Policy between 2010 -2014 – Impact on the Average American Life
July 10, 2010
By Padmini Arhant
Further to the article published on this website – “Amendments to National Health Care Legislation,” 04/07/2010 under “Health,” category, the predicted Insurance industry practice is taking toll on ‘average’ American lives.
Source: Bay Area News Group July 4, 2010
By Sandy Kleffman – skleffman@bayareanewsgroup.com – Thank you.
“Health Care Nightmare,” – Minor conditions lead to major insurance costs
Ralf Burgert had no idea how costly toenail fungus could be.
The San Rafael resident got rid of the common infection by treating it with the prescription medication Lamsil. But he could not believe the reaction when he applied for a health insurance policy on the individual market a short time later.
Because of the toenail fungus, an insurer informed him, he would be in a higher-risk insurance pool with a 50 percent jump in premiums.
Consumer advocates say they are often perplexed by the minor health issues that can create serious problems for people seeking health insurance. Each company sets its own policies.
People have been rejected for such common conditions as acne and high blood pressure, said Judy Dugan, research director for Consumer Watchdog.
“If you are pregnant, (insurers) will run the other way screaming,” she added.
“They don’t want to insure a baby until they have looked it over to make sure it’s absolutely healthy.”
A Fremont doctor said she was shocked when one insurer rejected her application because of her eczema, seasonal allergies and a brief bout with viral meningitis, despite a full recovery.
At age 45, Angelique Green, chief medical officer of the Tri-City Health Center, considers herself very healthy, with low cholesterol. She has never smoked, and her hobby is hip-hop dancing.
“To say no to somebody and not even try to work with them, that’s just wrong,” she said.
“It was very frustrating.”
Consumer advocates say they want to make sure that insurance companies do not become more aggressive with denials or dramatically hike premiums for those with pre-existing conditions during the next four years.
“The insurers now compete based on their ability to deny (coverage) to anybody who might actually need care,” Wright said.
“That will change, but not in the near term, and that’s a problem we will have to reckon with.
“It’s particularly important to be vigilant between now and 2014,” he said.
“We would like to see that the regulators closely monitor the denial rates for pre-existing conditions and the reasons for the denials.”
Insurance industry representatives call such concerns misguided and say they do not expect any major changes in underwriting policies before 2014.
“We have a competitive market in California, so health plans want people to buy their coverage, and they will charge a competitive price,” said Patrick Johnston, president and CEO of the California Association of Health Plans.
He noted that the insurance industry generally supported eliminating medical underwriting and guaranteeing coverage to applicants, as long as the change came with a government mandate that most people buy insurance.
Pre-existing conditions are not an issue for the 21 million Californians who have group insurance, usually provided through employers, because group plans accept people regardless of their medical histories.
But they can be a big worry for the 2.5 million Californians who buy insurance on the individual market.
California and many other states will soon set up new high-risk pools for those who have found it difficult or impossible to obtain coverage.
California will receive $761 million to fund this new pool, a dramatic increase over the $33 million for the state’s existing high-risk pool. But this money will not cover everyone with pre-existing conditions, and some may find the still-to-be-determined premiums too costly.
As a result, many people with pre-existing conditions are expected to remain in the individual market during the next four years and experience frustrations as they attempt to find coverage, consumer advocates say.
Consumer advocates such as Wright say people with pre-existing health conditions often encounter serious problems in obtaining coverage that hopefully will be resolved in 2014.
“Many people find it bewildering that it’s exactly the people who need coverage who are the ones who cannot get it,”
As more and more people get denied for smaller and smaller medical problems, both the industry and individuals have figured out that this is not sustainable,” he said.
“The system is broken.”
Redwood City resident Terri Mullen agrees. When she experienced work-related stresses in 2008, her doctor suggested she see a therapist and try anti-anxiety medication. Little did she realize the problem this would cause.
When she later applied for an individual insurance plan, a firm told her she would be in a high-risk pool with much higher premiums because the therapy and medication were signs of a serious mental illness.
Now, she says, “I’m not stressed out anymore – I’m mad.’
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By Padmini Arhant – Health Care Snags Drags on…
As noted in the cited article, the victims’ experience is precisely the reason for the requirement on the health care reform to be effective immediately rather than in 2014.
Although, the health insurance industry like other Wall Street behemoths dictate their terms and conditions in every legislation to water down the impact, the legislators still hold the key to an effective and meaningful law on every national issue from financial, energy to health care bills.
It’s not surprising to note the insurance industry representatives’ emphasis on ‘the government mandate to buy insurance,’ to enable the industry compliance with respect to pre-existing conditions and coverage offer to applicants.
The problem lies with the insurance industry’s policy against the mandatory subscribers with pre-existing illnesses and affordability factor for comprehensive quality care even in 2014 and thereafter.
Meanwhile, the insurance industry is determined to continue the status quo with coverage denial and placing subscribers under high-risk pool for minor ailments between now and 2014.
Since it’s a life and death matter, those who are declined coverage by the insurers face the worst possible situations as there is no guarantee to their health care access until the health care legislation becomes the law in 2014.
Despite the expected federal funding increase to the states to address the high-risk pool, the amount projected as inadequate to cover the patients with pre-existing illnesses forcing them to deal with the escalating premium costs in the market for individual subscribers.
That’s why the ideal solution to all of these issues would be to amalgamate the existing federal programs such as Medicare, Medicaid, CHIP, VA, COBRA and establish a “Single Payer” system for a “Universal Health Care” made available now to save life.
Nations thrive with healthy population contributing to a productive and prosperous economy.
It’s never too late to enhance the health care law for health care is a necessity and not a privilege.
Thank you.
Padmini Arhant
Padmini Arhant – PadminiArhant.online
Padmini Arhant – Gaza War and Rafah Air Strike
Independent Free Palestine – Jan 2024 Speech
Celebration – Bright, Beautiful & Picturesque
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Swastika – The Sacred Symbol – All is Well
Organic Intelligence Erring!
The ones flaunting the so-called organic intelligence with constant jibes at the allegedly artificial intelligence could perhaps seek assistance from the latter in spelling adjectives correctly to make sense of the message. Even basic spell check feature would serve the requirement.
The country is indeed precious not prescious than any individual, entity, political party, institution and organization.
Needless to say, it is applicable all around without exception.
Unlike the trend, smothered in hypocrisy beckoning others to do what is apparently unacceptable to selves to the extent of blasphemy.
Padmini Arhant
Get over the 🤚🏽✋✌🏼✌️✌🏿 🙏🏽🙏🏻🙏🏽🙏🙏🏿 mania!
Get over the mania!
🙏🏽🙏🏻🙏🏽🙏🙏🏿
mania as that is not going to deliver what is aimed at and desired in vain except confirming your asinine indulgence.Besides in politics such as Indian corrupt criminal signature trait is exclusively yours and no monkey see monkey do act can change it for it is attached to you like skin and bone.
Padmini Arhant
Padmini Arhant with Divinity Shiva
Celebration of Lord Krishna
Message to Humanity – Padmini Arhant
Spread peace and engage in non-violence. Speak truth with courage. Heed your conscience. Respect life. Serve your nation and people with honesty and integrity. Espouse human values and exemplify in deeds with care and compassion. Voice concern over injustice. Be part of the solution and not the problem. Love mankind and environment for universal harmony.
Peace is Eternal Bliss.Padmini Arhant
தமிழ் புத்தாண்டு 2022 நல் வாழ்த்துக்கள்! Tamil New Year 2022 Greetings!
Padmini Arhant and Roshni Greeted by the Brilliant Light in the Horizon
Words of Wisdom from Venerable Gautam Buddha
Words of Wisdom from Venerable Gautam Buddha
Tamil OM Symbol & Pranava Manthiram
Absolute Truth
Reunion with Divinity God Shiva at Holy Mt.Kailash 2019
Padmini Arhant interaction with God Shiva during Parikrama of Mt.Kailash
Padmini Arhant Kailash Lake Manasarovar Pilgrimage 2019
Padmini Arhant on Parikrama or Circumambulation of Mt. Kailash
ARHANT Family at Famous Taj Mahal
Gautam Buddha’s Words of Wisdom
Peace Pledge
