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We are the 99 percent

Chicago: #OccupyObama

Posted 11 years ago on Sept. 4, 2012, 4:50 p.m. EST by OccupyWallSt
Tags: anti-war, dnc, foreclosure defense, chicago, immigration, lgbtq

The United States is in need of change, now more than ever, and that change must come from the people. We can no longer rely on politicians to save us. Politicians are bought and sold by the very interests that are destroying our society, and our president Barack Obama is no different. After coming into office under the guise of hope and change, we have seen more of the same policies and actions that brought us to our current situation. Now more than ever it is time for a real change.

With the upcoming presidential election, we are going to be given two sides of the same corporate coin. Without question, we reject the idea that Mitt Romney, the man behind Bain Capital, can do anything other than gut what remains of the public sector, destroy what remains of our social services, and empower corporations to further take over our country.

Barack Obama's agenda is not so different from that of Mitt Romney's. If Obama is elected we will continue to see more human rights abuses, the rolling back of our constitutional rights, and a continuation of the silent coup that corporate America is executing on what remains of our sham of a democracy.

Beginning today, Occupy Chicago will join with activists around Chicago and take a stand. We will highlight the contradictions between President Obama's promise of “hope and change” and his actual policy decisions during a four day occupation of his campaign headquarters. Each day will feature actions, teach-ins, and opportunities to share in community and grow our movement. Join us!

RSVP on Facebook

September 4: 5PM Central, Jackson&Lasalle: Reject President 1%: End Obama's War On the World's 99%

September 5: Protest Mortgage Debt/Foreclosures at at Fannie Mae's Midwest Regional Offices

September 6: Democracy

More below.

September 4: Reject President 1%: End Obama's War On the World's 99%

While President Obama throws himself a big commercial during the DNC in North Carolina, we will be presenting a Bill of Grievances against his administration at the Obama National Campaign Headquarters in Chicago.

ABROAD

This President has escalated most of George W. Bush's wars -- Afghanistan, Pakistan, Somalia, Yemen, a new American military force on the African continent. He has continued to arm Israel while it robs even more Palestinian lands.

He has threatened, and carried out, new illegal wars on other nations. He violated the War Powers Act to launch a sustained war on Libya. He looks the other way while the brutal Saudi Arabian dictatorship foments civil war in Syria. He refuses to rule out war, including use of nuclear weapons, against Iran.

He supports dictators and military coups against elected governments abroad. He recognized and arms the military coup governments in Honduras and the Maldives, and the "constitutional" coup in Paraguay. He arms the Saudi Arabian monarchy as it brutality suppresses its own people and invades Bahrain to support that dictatorship's crushing of its pro-democracy movement.

He sends troops to occupy countries that don't want them there. U.S. troops occupy 130 countries, violating the wishes of the vast majority of most nations they occupy. Obama's drone attacks far exceed those of George W. Bush. His "enemies list" of people to kill abroad and assassinations of them represents an escalation on Bush's "extraordinary renditions" of people to torture chambers run by U.S. secret forces and U.S.-allied dictators.

He neglects the urgent needs of the 99% at home and abroad while spending a record amount on the military. He enthusiastically supports the world's largest-ever military alliance, NATO, while spending 67% of the federal budget on current and past wars. He spends as much on the U.S. military as the rest of the world combined, while half the world's people live on less than $2 a day.

AT HOME

He has promoted the 1% in finance and other big businesses, while barely lifting a finger for the 99%. He and the Bush administration gave trillions to bail out Wall Street, and stuffed his administration full of many of the leading crooks who precipitated the financial meltdown in the first place. While he makes campaign gestures towards the 99% now that his own job is on the line, where has he been for the last three-and-a-half years?

He has stood by while Republican governors have attacked public workers' rights, and through his "Education" Secretary, has attacked teachers' unions more vigorously than any president before him. During the 2008 campaign, he and Secretary of State Clinton both pledged to at least modify, if not repeal, NAFTA, but didn't. He promised to make it easier for workers to democratically decide to form unions by signing "card check," but didn't.

He has escalated George Bush's attacks on civil liberties, increasing Bush's surveillance inside the country, persecuting whistle blowers like Pfc. Manning and supporters, while taking a pass on prosecuting Bush administration officials who ordered torture and launched wars that killed countless thousands of people. He has reauthorized the PATRIOT Act when he pledged to oppose it. He, as a former constitutional law scholar at the University of Chicago, has helped destroy habeas corpus, the right by which people cannot by imprisoned without charges or trials, by signing the National Defense Authorization Act.

He poses as a friend of immigrants after he has deported more undocumented people from the United States than any president since Herbert Hoover. His recent executive order stopping deportations of children of the undocumented was an election year gimmick that offers no path to citizenship, and was only conceded after doing far greater harm against immigrants than even the preceding Bush administration. It was his moving dramatically to the right on the issue in the early years of his administration which legitimized the savage attacks of many Republican officials in states and localities around the nation.

He has used LGBT rights like a political football, supporting equal marriage rights early in his career, then opposing it. After doing nothing to oppose the anti-gay constitutional amendment in North Carolina, he endorsed gay marriage, but at the same time endorsed a bogus "state's rights" approach to the issue. But it was the Democrats who gave us the Defense of Marriage Act in the first place, which he refused to repeal when his party held both houses of Congress. And Don't Ask, Don't Tell – again a product of the Democrats – was only repealed when a gay Log Cabin Republican suit, opposed by Obama, looked set to overturn the policy.

By endorsing corporate attacks on the environment at practically every turn, he has enabled the Republicans to move even further right on the issue. Cap and trade, a rightwing fantasy under Republican administrations, is now "mainstream." Despite weeks of high-profile protests, he opened the door to the Keystone pipeline. Fracking, without even disclosure of the toxic chemicals used, is expanding greatly under his EPA. In his eagerness to shill for corporate interests, he's pushing for the new first nuclear power plants in a generation, and the BP oil disaster in the Gulf was preceded just a few weeks earlier by Obama's announced opening up of huge areas of the eastern seaboard to drilling.

There are very few respects in which the current administration is better than the last one, and many more respects in which it has been even worse, betraying the hopes of millions who mistakenly felt that 2008 represented a fresh start in American politics.

We will not opportunistically oppose only the crimes of the Republicans while ignoring the crimes of the Democrats. We will not put the Democratic Party's interests above those of the 99% at home and abroad. We will oppose the pro-1% policies of the sitting President in his home town on September 4th, the first day of the Democratic National Convention.

September 5: Protest Obama/Fannie&Freddie/Ed Demarco for Foreclosure/Underwater Mortgage Crisis

The United States is in a state of crisis right now. Almost 100 families are evicted each day from their homes, by big Wall Street Banks and the politicians funded by them. It is a crisis that is killing our most vulnerable communities: over 35-percent of African American homes are underwater and over 1.5 million homeowners over the age of 50 have lost their homes since 2007.

While much of the blame has justifiably been directed at Wall Street big banks, the Obama administration has thus far avoided taking any actual effective action towards helping the 15 million families in the nation that are facing underwater mortgages and the threat of foreclosure. Instead he has sought to sell the public the option of small-scale "mortgage refinancing" that clearly doesn't go far enough and in fact often adds further bureaucratic burdens to families. The answer to the mortgages crisis has always been clear - a large-scale mortgage principal writedown on all underwater mortgages to their current value would create 1 million jobs every year, pump over $70 billion per year back into communities, save American families over $500 per month, and solve the foreclosure crisis once and for all. While Obama has had the option of forcing the Federal Housing Finance Agency to engage in large-scale principal reduction for the 60% of US mortgages that are owned or backed by them since the financial crisis back in 2008, he continues to hide behind Bush-era appointee FHFA director Ed Demarco whom on multiple occasions has stated his absolute opposition to any form of principal writedown.

Occupy Chicago finds this to be absolutely unacceptable and is calling on supporters to join us for a rally at Fannie Mae's Midwest Regional Offices in downtown Chicago on September 5th at 5PM? where families facing the threat of eviction by Fannie Mae will speak out about their situation. The rally will then be followed by a march over to Obama's OFA Campaign Headquarters where participants will be chained together to balls that will signify how mortgage debt is enslaving our communities. At the headquarters, we will call Obama out on his hypocrisy in expecting the 15 million families in the United States to vote for him this year when he has done nothing to alleviate their struggles with mortgage debt and threats of foreclosure.

September 6: #OccupyDemocracy

Every four years we are asked to step into the ballot box and select a fellow citizen to represent the United States of America at home and abroad. Again and again we are presented with two options whose solutions for the world fail to address even our most basic of needs. The situation is so dire that we are often told to select "the lesser of two evils" without even the slightest hint of humor, and this election cycle is no different. We have been presented with Barack Obama and Mitt Romney, whose plans for the United States fail to address the gravity of the global failure of capitalism. In response, this year we must refuse to put our future in the hands of any evil, be it Democrat or Republican.

Join Occupy Chicago in demonstration against the farce that is the 2012 Presidential Election. On the final day of the Democratic National Convention, assemble with us in front of Barack Obama's campaign headquarters, where we will use acts of symbolism to display our dissatisfaction with the democratic and republican parties.

Following the symbolic acts and speak outs, at Obama's headquarters, we will hold a general assembly focused on the most important issues of the day, those which actually affect the lives of the 99%. As Occupy Chicago rejects the inadequate and unrepresentative electoral process, we will put our vision for a direct democracy on full display.

Another World Is Possible, Occupy Chicago

130 Comments

130 Comments


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[-] 7 points by TrevorMnemonic (5827) 11 years ago

No one in 2008 voted for Obama to drop bombs in 6 countries and prepare for war in a 7th.

[-] 5 points by hchc (3297) from Tampa, FL 11 years ago

I will second that. And we didnt vote for assasinating American citizens abroad, or forced corporatism either.

Oh ya, and we wanted Gitmo closed. Some marriage equality legislation would be nice. I guess the Bush cuts werent part of the campaign either. And who cares if the banks are still stealing billions. Fuck it, I need another big mac.

[-] 2 points by TrevorMnemonic (5827) 11 years ago

CBS News - "Gay rights activists say they feel betrayed by President Obama's decision not to sign an executive order banning workplace discrimination of gay, lesbian and transgender workers under federal contracts."

So instead of signing executive orders or producing legislation to vote on in Congress... he just went on tv and said "I support gay marriage." -well played.

"The proposed Executive Order to be issued by the president would have prohibited federal contractors to discriminate against its employees based on sexual orientation. In 1965, President Lyndon Johnson signed an Executive Order banning federal contractors from discrimination based on race, religion and gender. This would have been an expansion of Executive Order 11246." - http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-503544_162-57413357-503544/gay-rights-activists-decry-obamas-discrimination-inaction/

I still couldn't believe this the first time I saw it. I always thought Obama was pretty corrupt... but I figured he'd always be supportive of all gay rights legislation. Very shocking.

[+] -7 points by VQkag2 (16478) 11 years ago

Nothing positive! Just the same old anti dem partisan exaggerations, and mischaracterizations.

[-] 2 points by ogoj11 (263) 11 years ago

VQ, why do you do this all day? Are they paying you? You could probably do Obama more good elsewhere. And, my god, don't have anything else to say, about anything at all? Tell us what you like to eat.

[-] 0 points by VQkag2 (16478) 11 years ago

I don't come here to discuss food!

I came here initially out of curiosity, then a desire to help the 99%, then I found quickly there were many anti dem partisans campaigning against Obama (and dems), even though it was against the forum rules.

It has become my entertainment to challenge these anti dem partisan campaigning efforts.

I am still willing to discuss ways to help the 99% but I think my reputation disallows any one taking me seriously in that regard. LOL

Why do you come here?

[-] 1 points by m4trix87 (71) 11 years ago

Did you miss <everything> OWS does against the GOP as well? Did you read the entirety of the article before commenting?

[-] 1 points by VQkag2 (16478) 11 years ago

Sure I read it why?

[-] 0 points by DKAtoday (33802) from Coon Rapids, MN 11 years ago

ummm if you are trying to be helpful - perhaps a PM conversation might be a good way to start.

[+] -7 points by VQkag2 (16478) 11 years ago

Just the same old anti dem partisan exaggerations, and mischaracterizations.

[-] 6 points by TrevorMnemonic (5827) 11 years ago

Which part is an exaggeration?

When you voted for Obama in 2008 did you want him to bomb 6 countries and surround Iran?

End the illegal drone wars. End the war in Afghanistan now! Instead of bombing bridges in foreign countries we need to be building bridges in America.

[-] 1 points by hchc (3297) from Tampa, FL 11 years ago

If we wanted that, we would have voted for the McCainiac.

[-] 1 points by poof (-10) 11 years ago

VQkag2 is a troll from moveon.org. He loves Obama more than his own mother.

[-] 0 points by shoozTroll (17632) 11 years ago

Yer just a jealous troll from the ghost of ACORN.

Missing your tree?

[-] 3 points by richardkentgates (3269) 11 years ago

Combative cliques do not help OWS and are a bit beneath all of us. Or should be at least.

[-] 1 points by shoozTroll (17632) 11 years ago

C'mon richard, if you aren't sick and tired of the BS about moveon by now, I'd have to think you weren't paying much attention.

To me? The mere mention is a tip off to another asshole troll.

I won't be laying off folks that mention moveon anytime soon.

[-] 0 points by NVPHIL (664) 11 years ago

I'm also tired of the constant pro obama commentary. They are as incapable of admitting that their party is bought off as the rep trolls that were last year. Reagen, Bush sr.,Clinton, Buh jr., and now Obama are following the same script handed to them by their corporate pimps. What I see now is a dem attempt to co-opt OWS the same the reps co-opted the Tea Party.

[-] 1 points by MattLHolck (16833) from San Diego, CA 11 years ago

OWS didn't fall for it

nor did the tea party

[-] 2 points by LetsGetReal (1420) from Grants, NM 11 years ago

Actually, I think the Tea Party did get co-opted by the Republican Party.

http://www.reddit.com/r/occupywallstreet/comments/kyjo2/an_open_letter_a

[-] 1 points by MattLHolck (16833) from San Diego, CA 11 years ago

good article

[-] 1 points by MattLHolck (16833) from San Diego, CA 11 years ago

at least the name did

[-] 1 points by shoozTroll (17632) 11 years ago

You must be new here.

The FEAR of co-option theme has been around since the site went live.

It's too late. The co-option is already complete, and it had nothing to do with moveon, or any one of the number of unions that shared in the fear..

[-] -1 points by DKAtoday (33802) from Coon Rapids, MN 11 years ago

Do you love anything? I mean besides yourself your image in the mirror and so forth.

[Removed]

[-] 4 points by Shule (2638) 11 years ago

Let hold our votes for ransom! If Obama makes some real change between now and November 2 we will vote for him. If he don't oh well he had his chance.

[-] 2 points by ElectoralReform (73) 11 years ago

Hold the votes hostage by voting green! They'll know where the votes came from.

That or join up with the new progressive alliance (newprogs.org) and get candidates on the record to state their intentions to hold true to these values. Or make our own OWS core principles, and get candidates to confirm it. Electoral Reform and wall street regulation should be the first and most important.

State it loud and clear for the Ds! OWS is NOT going to just blindly vote for you! The lesser of two evils is still too evil, the enemy of my enemy is NOT my friend! If OWS is going to support ANY Ds, (Especially Obama) there needs to be some kind of compromise, some kind of notice we can hold them to, promises we can get them to make in an official capacity. Many would argue those broken promises are already enough...

[-] 2 points by Shule (2638) 11 years ago

I was more like thinking holding our votes for ransom in hope of getting something in return. That means having to be noncommittal 'till just before the election.

If Obama gives me something, I'll vote for him.

[-] 2 points by LetsGetReal (1420) from Grants, NM 11 years ago

Yes. If you must vote for him, for God's sake at least play hard to get.

[-] 3 points by Shule (2638) 11 years ago

If he don't give me something, I'll be voting green.....

[-] 1 points by ElectoralReform (73) 11 years ago

Ding ding ding ding ding

Obama would have to do WAY more than make promises in the next few weeks and month, he'll have to pass REAL CHANGE. I haven't seen it.

OWS should be out on the streets loud and clear, stating that they are progressive, and if Obama is not progressive, they will not vote for him. "Holding the vote hostage with noncommital til just before the election" seems like an OK plan, but it's not fair to Jill Stein. She is honest and real, and is the only other liberal candidate qualified to actually win. She has ads going up right now during the convention. Donate at her site right now and it qualifies for matching federal funds! https://jillstein.nationbuilder.com/donate

Her first advertisement looks stupid unfortunately. She needs ads that get right to the point, labeling Ds and Rs as the same on so many issues, with her alternatives being the only feasable option. Especially at the presidential level: War, healthcare, wall street, and electoral reform, Romney and Obama are in complete agreement (even when the pretend they are not)

[-] 1 points by Shule (2638) 11 years ago

One can work on two things at once now. Think of this; elections these days are won by very narrow margins. Last election the greens got on average less than 1% of the popular vote. With all due respect, and bless her heart, Ms. Stein's chances of winning the 2012 Presidential election is just about nil. However, she could garner enough votes to tip the election in several key states. Now that means she has power; that is if she uses it as leverage to extract some concessions from the Democratic party, i.e. hold the entire green vote up for ransom. With such a strategy she may have to forsake any possibility of winning (that is not a big deal since her chances are near nil anyway.) ,but she and the greens will walk away with something. Such action will put the greens on the political map as a serious factor. Then come next round of elections with suddenly more backing .....

[-] 2 points by ElectoralReform (73) 11 years ago

Well that's the idea... demand she's in polling, debates, allowed to change the issue... But OWS needs to COLLECTIVELY declare their support for her agenda, and say that without Obama adopting some key aspects of her agenda, nobody in OWS will vote for him. But it's hard to say, given the decentralized nature and lack of cohesion on the topic.

But my opinion of how ows, the green party can together get in the spot light and make a scene, choose the issues (electoral reform and money out of politics!)

[-] 2 points by MattLHolck (16833) from San Diego, CA 11 years ago

NO WAR

[-] 1 points by Shule (2638) 11 years ago

Stop wars.

I suggest we demand Obama lift sanctions put on Iran, stop supporting warring rebels in Syria, host peace deal negotiations in Syria instead, and stop all drone attacks.... at least stop doing drone attacks. That Obama can do by executive order, without having to get approval from congress first.

[-] 1 points by DKAtoday (33802) from Coon Rapids, MN 11 years ago

I would like to see a national united protest stating that it is time for a 3rd party - a party FOR THE PEOPLE.

[-] 1 points by ElectoralReform (73) 11 years ago

I keep saying it, the only way is to vote for it...

How can we simply ask the powers that be (the two party duopoly) to simply give up their power...

We can take away their vote (which, if they are truly the same, won't matter unless a 3rd party WINS)

But if they are not exactly the same (as I keep being told on this forum) then the party losing votes should be inclined to get those votes back! Make your demands OWS! Make your political demands! Electoral Reform and Wall Street Regulation, that's enough to get the ball rolling. Fair elections with third party representation.

And make a simple demand: without those two things (both of which libertarians and greens support) then you will vote third party! At least there is a chance of the third party winning, and you get your way, rather than voting for a 'lesser of two evils' and not getting your way anyway!

[-] 1 points by Manna (85) 11 years ago

I suggest you post this to Obama.

Once I saw that Obama's office opened an e-mail account as direct public link as "transparent" relations. I did not believe this but I e-mailed a couple of times anyway. Just as I expected, I did not receive even an automated response. I praise Obama however; for he is quite transparent that he does not keep his promise and does not care for anyone on this planet.

On second thought, I advise you not to post. You will only waste your time over the crystal clear issue. Long live Obama's transparency.

[-] 0 points by TitusMoans (2451) from Boulder City, NV 11 years ago

He has to take some action. I had decided to vote this election, only because of Paul Ryan, but if Obama makes no significant effort to make real change, I will vote for Jill Stein. Of all the candidates she represents the ideal of real democracy best.

[-] 4 points by TitusMoans (2451) from Boulder City, NV 11 years ago

This is great news. Politicians seemingly take voters for granted; that the left will automatically vote for Obama though he has delivered little more than despair and disappointment. Time for real change.

[-] 2 points by krmlei (103) from New York, NY 11 years ago

Meanwhile Elizabeth Warren claimed in her speach at the DNC that Obama was the only reason we could fight the big banks and wall street in the first place. He was the first president to challenge them. Was she just making it all up? What's your take on Elizabeth Warren? Is she also an enemy for Occupy Wall Street?

[-] 1 points by TitusMoans (2451) from Boulder City, NV 11 years ago

I don't believe Obama or Elizabeth Warren are enemies of OWS; they simply do their masters' bidding. Their actions may be slightly more cloaked than, let's say, those of Paul Ryan, buy all of their actions lead toward the same goal.

[-] 3 points by nicky2 (46) 11 years ago

I'll hold my nose and vote Obama though in many ways I am angrier at him. He promised hope and change, spoke the words most of us wanted to hear and then came the big let down - and it was BIG. I am terrified of Romney/Ryan - because of this and only because of this, I'll vote Obama.We're stuck in the two -party system and until this changes, my vote goes to the lesser of two evils.

[-] 3 points by hchc (3297) from Tampa, FL 11 years ago

The people who understand what is going on MUST be hte ones that lead us out of this system.

If we do not do it, it will never happen.

[-] 2 points by jrhirsch (4714) from Sun City, CA 11 years ago

Voting out of fear will insure the greater evil for either half will always be elected. Voting out of principle instead of fear will insure neither evil is elected.

[-] 1 points by LetsGetReal (1420) from Grants, NM 11 years ago

I'm voting for Rocky Anderson out of principle and out of fear. Continued two party domination is a real threat and fear is an appropriate response.

[-] 3 points by ronniepaul2012 (214) 11 years ago

Gary Johnson here for the same reasons!

[-] 3 points by jrhirsch (4714) from Sun City, CA 11 years ago

Rocky is on my list of potential candidates also. If only people realized how simple it would be to break the domination of both parties. Just punching a single chad out and it's done.

[-] 1 points by krmlei (103) from New York, NY 11 years ago

Were you old enough to vote for Ralph Nader back in 2000? Lot of people felt the same way you feel about Rocky as they did about Nader back then and guess who we got? GWB!

[-] 3 points by conservatroll (187) 11 years ago

And Ross Perot gave Slick Willie the wheel. SO what? I think we all agree the 2 major parties have failed us. Time to vote 3rd party of your choice. If enough votes go that way we can eventually smash the 2 party paradigm. Won't happen if you keep voting R or D.

[-] 1 points by jrhirsch (4714) from Sun City, CA 11 years ago

Your democratic party induced fear is identical to the republican party induced fear. Decisions based on fear will always result in domination, no matter which party wins.

[-] 1 points by krmlei (103) from New York, NY 11 years ago

Only problem jr is that I don't have any induced fear. Though you may have a problem with projecting what you want to see on people you don't even know. So I'm not sure your judgement isn't anything to depend on

[-] 2 points by jrhirsch (4714) from Sun City, CA 11 years ago

Your response sounds exactly like the typical party fear tactic used by both sides. If you vote for other than X, Z will be elected.

If I was wrong in assuming you had any induced fear I apologize. But if a person votes for a candidate they do not support in order to prevent another candidate from being elected, would you consider that person's vote to be based on courage or fear?

[-] 2 points by krmlei (103) from New York, NY 11 years ago

I understand what your getting at. Not everyone took a statistics class when they went to college. The fact is, if you vote for other than X, Z will be elected. That is a statistical certainty in a race with odds close to 50/50.

I think it takes courage to vote for the lesser of two evils. I admire anyone who knows that the two party system is corrupt but is brave enough not to feel discouraged and to make a stand against the Republican agenda which will be much much worse since it is now to the far right of GWB since the tea party.

[-] 2 points by jrhirsch (4714) from Sun City, CA 11 years ago

"The fact is, if you vote for other than X, Z will be elected. That is a statistical certainty in a race with odds close to 50/50."

In a neighborhood ruled by two street gangs, the bloods and the crips, would you join one or would you not join either and risk retaliation? Because many people in the community feel that they can't overthrow the gangs because not enough people will participate, they make the wrong decision and join one of the gangs, further increasing the gangs power, and decreasing the likelihood that the neighborhood will ever be gang free. They join the lesser of two evil gangs when the know the right choice is to overthrow both and live in peace.

[-] 1 points by krmlei (103) from New York, NY 11 years ago

What if you choose neither gang and you are placed into the worse of the two by default?

I tend to like associating with mature people regardless of their age. When we were children, it was fun to play pretend and make the world a place of good guys and bad guys, imaginary ghosts (conspiracy theories) and all powerful super heros (whether it's Santa Claus or God.)

One of the major signs of adulthood is the ability to see that the world is more complex than our imaginary fairy stories and to make choices by understanding consequences. Perfection does not exist in nature and yet the natural world will make choices for survival.

Of course after the elections, it would be a good idea to fight the two party system. But once the Republicans are in power, they will make that impossible. They are going to back Citizens United all the way until it becomes the law of the land and then it will be impossible for any third party candidate becuase corporate money will be all over politics and the two parties.

The Dems on the other hand have been fighting Citizens United. You have all the information. You know all this. So what are you going to do? Shoot your own foot?

[-] 1 points by jrhirsch (4714) from Sun City, CA 11 years ago

The fairy tail adults believe is that voting for the least of two corrupt parties will keep a lid on the problem for now. We'll face the real problem later. That day has been put off for decades. Always an excuse based on fallacies, instead of action based on principle. The deeper we become stuck in the two party rut, the more difficult it will be to get out of it. The mature decision is to get out of that rut now.

The dems are not fighting CU. Another fairy tail. Obama already benefits from CU.

http://www.opensecrets.org/pres12/indexp_indiv.php?cycle=2012&id=N00009638

[-] 1 points by krmlei (103) from New York, NY 11 years ago

Wrong!

Romney is actually using Citizens United to outspend Obama 6x and has budgeted to outspend Obama in every state. If he wins, he will be able to replace a possible up to 8 retiring supreme court judges which means Citizens United will be established law, no appeal would be possible after 2016.

Of course Obama is going to have to compete for funds. CU has not been overturned yet!

[-] 2 points by jrhirsch (4714) from Sun City, CA 11 years ago

Romney or Obama doesn't control CU spending. CU spending is out of their hands, spent independently by the super pac.

Watch the pro Obama CU financed ads in the next couple of months. If he is really dedicated to CU's overturn, he should speak out against those ads.

[-] 2 points by jrhirsch (4714) from Sun City, CA 11 years ago

How will CU ever be overturned if both parties use it?

http://www.opensecrets.org/outsidespending/summ.php?cycle=2012&disp=O&type=S&chrt=V

[-] 2 points by krmlei (103) from New York, NY 11 years ago

As long as CU is around, third parties will be functionally obsolete and only used as a way to get votes away from the candidate with the less money power.

[-] 2 points by krmlei (103) from New York, NY 11 years ago

For Obama, overturning CU has been his priority even before the elections. Obama may even go as far as ammending the Constitution in order to overturn Citizens United. He is dedicated to it.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/ruth-marcus-do-democrats-have-a-plan-b-on-citizens-united/2012/09/04/f7547b5a-f6d6-11e1-8b93-c4f4ab1c8d13_story.html

[-] 1 points by LetsGetReal (1420) from Grants, NM 11 years ago

Reply to krmlei comment below:

"Let's be frank, it really is a no brainer what's going on here. We can't pretend otherwise. There WILL BE no viable third party once Romney takes office. We are just shutting that door by voting third party in this election."

Yes, let's be frank. One of the ways R's & D's maintain their domination is by convincing people that the other party is so much worse, when in fact, there's not a dime's worth of difference. Continuing to vote for either of the corrupt presidential candidates is what perpetuates the broken system. The way out is to stop voting for the lesser evil and vote for something good.

[-] 0 points by krmlei (103) from New York, NY 11 years ago

Look, I gave my arguments and you just keep repeating the same thing over and over again. So if my arguments don't convince you that's fine. I don't want to get into a circular debate with you, I find them quite boring

[-] 1 points by LetsGetReal (1420) from Grants, NM 11 years ago

Replying to krmlei comment below:

For Obama, overturning CU has been his priority even before the elections. Obama may even go as far as ammending the Constitution in order to overturn Citizens United. He is dedicated to it. http://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/ruth-marcus-do-democrats-have-a-plan-b-on-citizens-united/2012/09/04/f7547b5a-f6d6-11e1-8b93-c4f4ab1c8d13_story.html

Obama's statement is far from showing "dedication". He said:

“Over the longer term, I think we need to seriously consider mobilizing a constitutional amendment process to overturn Citizens United (assuming the Supreme Court doesn’t revisit it),” he wrote. “Even if the amendment process falls short, it can shine a spotlight on the super PAC phenomenon and help apply pressure for change.”

Sounds more like a lukewarm, "maybe we can think about it later, if the court doesn't do it, and it probably won't pass but that's still okay."

[-] 0 points by krmlei (103) from New York, NY 11 years ago

Sounding lukewarm about the Consitutional amendment? This is serious legistlation he's talking about here. He's talking about executive branch intervention in a judicial ruling. That's hell serious! But that is how far he is willing to take this if necessary.

The hope is that an appeal to the Supreme Court will overturn the original ruling. Would only work if the judges replacing the retiring judges have similar feeling towards CU as the president. We already have an idea what kind of judges Romney will appoint.

Let's be frank, it really is a no brainer what's going on here. We can't pretend otherwise. There WILL BE no viable third party once Romney takes office. We are just shutting that door by voting third party in this election.

[-] 0 points by VQkag2 (16478) 11 years ago

Gangs, in the 'hood? Do you know something about that. Not likely. Not an accurate analogy. Few People join gangs for the reasons you suggest.

Voting for 3rd parties is great, I have too. but it is not enough to change this corrupt system. the protests against every pol is required. We can turn individual pols as easily as getting 3rd party candidates.

We must attempt all tactics. We can't exclude anything. We must judge every candidate on their position on issues.

[-] 1 points by nicky2 (46) 11 years ago

News Flash: There is much to fear

[-] 0 points by VQkag2 (16478) 11 years ago

It's not party created fear! It's party created duopoly. Party created obstacles for 3rd parties.

The country is run by 2 parties! We must protest to end that duopoly. We must also recognize that until we end the duopoly, they will continue to hold all power. And we should acknowledge that attacking one serves the other.

That's not my opinion, I didn't make it up. It's the way it is. If you think the parties are the same, then it don't matter to you. Many feel that way.

I do not. I know the parties are vastly different. So while I support and protest ending the duopoly I suggest using your vote to keep the anti 99% pols/party out.

And protest, pressure, agitate for progressive change!

[-] 2 points by LetsGetReal (1420) from Grants, NM 11 years ago

We'll stay stuck in a two-party dominated system until enough people stop voting for the lesser of two evils.

[-] 1 points by krmlei (103) from New York, NY 11 years ago

What are you so angry about?

[-] 3 points by ElectoralReform (73) 11 years ago

Absolutely, keep up the good work and let's get ows on board to hold the Ds accountable!

[-] 1 points by krmlei (103) from New York, NY 11 years ago

And I hope OWS will be okay that it is now under investigation for being a front group for the Koch Brothers.

[-] 0 points by DKAtoday (33802) from Coon Rapids, MN 11 years ago

Throwing toxic shit now - Hey? What kind of fool R U ?

[-] 3 points by krmlei (103) from New York, NY 11 years ago

Woah! DK ...so sorry you can't take a joke. Chill man, your taking your job way too seriously!

[-] 1 points by DKAtoday (33802) from Coon Rapids, MN 11 years ago

I do not have a job any longer - I am now involved with volunteer activism - and your joke(?) SUCKED.

[-] 1 points by krmlei (103) from New York, NY 11 years ago

Well I'm unemployed as well. I gave a year of my life to OWS. My joke sucked for you but for a lot of people its serious. It's on

[-] 1 points by richardkentgates (3269) 11 years ago

That ain't weed he's smoke'n :D

[-] 1 points by krmlei (103) from New York, NY 11 years ago

No, actually I got it from some original OWS members that they are going to investigate the recent OWS money trail. There finding some real shit (or smoking some, cant figure out which...)

[-] 1 points by richardkentgates (3269) 11 years ago

lol, smart ass.

[-] 1 points by DKAtoday (33802) from Coon Rapids, MN 11 years ago

I don't know - wait a sec - mandrake - yeah that is not weed.

[-] 2 points by elf3 (4203) 11 years ago

Caption for the Democratic Convention reads ...Boo Red! Hooray Blue! - forget all the stuff we didn't do. (And oh we're still sponsored by corporate America ... probably the same guys supporting Willard but don't think about that, whoa noh - middle class is standing even though their jobs are in China... well we said they're standing (we forgot to mention in protest in the streets and jobless) but oh they are standing... yuk yek - and something something car manufacturers (Just pretend they are not tied in with big oil and Wall Street and that it wasn't a bail out - we kept like 3 factories with workers around pretend it was about them...) Also we love women - they vote the most! equal pay equal work (that is if you can find a job) yek yek - forget about all those men jobs in construction and car manufacturing we saved and created - now take your 77 cents and your lady pills and be grateful - lord knows you can't afford kids in this economy. God bless Obama!

[-] 2 points by DKAtoday (33802) from Coon Rapids, MN 11 years ago

For those of you gathering in Chi-town to protest our currently seated government. I do not know what materials you have prepared - But perhaps I could give you my letters of protest/chastisement that I have been sending to the president and sharing out on social media. If all of your plans are not firmly locked in place or if you have some room for some improv - maybe you could find some useful material to incorporate into your protests.

OPEN LETTERS To The Fed. Gov. & The People :

http://occupywallst.org/forum/jump-starting-the-re-birth-of-the-usa-an-open-lett/

http://occupywallst.org/forum/fracking-an-open-letter-8272012-is-this-the-way-we/

http://occupywallst.org/forum/is-the-government-of-the-usa-trading-places-with-t/

http://occupywallst.org/forum/an-open-letter-to-the-people-of-the-usa-and-to-the/

http://occupywallst.org/forum/of-the-people-by-the-people-for-the-people-an-open/

http://occupywallst.org/forum/an-open-letter-to-the-state-department-to-the-worl/

http://occupywallst.org/forum/playtime-is-over-time-to-get-adults-to-do-some-par/

http://occupywallst.org/forum/open-letter-to-the-government-oath-of-office-72820/

http://occupywallst.org/forum/todays-modern-money-banking-investments-economy-an/

http://occupywallst.org/forum/give-em-all-a-madoff-makeover-from-riches-to-rags-/

http://occupywallst.org/forum/wardeath-by-drone-is-it-really-a-good-policy-or-is/

http://occupywallst.org/forum/letter-to-the-president-and-all-members-of-governm/

http://occupywallst.org/forum/let-us-get-our-priorities-syraight-an-open-letter-/

http://occupywallst.org/forum/proper-reform-what-do-you-think/

http://occupywallst.org/forum/standing-on-the-very-brink-of-doom-an-open-letter-/

http://occupywallst.org/forum/send-a-letter-to-the-potus-and-share-it-with-the-p/

http://occupywallst.org/forum/an-open-letter-one-comment-from-a-conversation-on-/

http://occupywallst.org/forum/an-open-letter-concerning-minimum-wage-though-i-wo/

[-] 1 points by ElectoralReform (73) 11 years ago

Nice open letters, keep em coming.

[-] 1 points by DKAtoday (33802) from Coon Rapids, MN 11 years ago

Thx

[-] 2 points by shadz66 (19985) 11 years ago

SOLIDARITY @ http://occupychi.org/2012/08/31/occupy-obama !!!

"Our political leaders, Democrat and Republican, are complicit in our demise. Our political system, like that in the declining days of ancient Rome, is one of legalized bribery. Politicians, including Mitt Romney and Barack Obama, serve the demented ends of corporations that will, until the final flicker of life, attempt to profit from our death spiral. Civil disobedience, including the recent decision by Greenpeace activists to chain themselves to a Gazprom supply vessel and obstruct a Russian oil rig, is the only meaningful form of resistance. Voting is useless. But while I support these heroic acts of resistance I increasingly fear they may have little effect. This does not mean we should not resist. Resistance is a moral imperative. We cannot use the word “hope” if we do not fight back. But the corporations will employ deadly force to protect their drive to extract the last bit of profit from life. We can expect only mounting hostility from the corporate state. Its internal and external security apparatus, as the heedless exploitation and its fatal consequences become more apparent, will seek to silence and crush all dissidents. Corporations care nothing for democracy, the rule of law, human rights or the sanctity of life. They are determined to be the last predator standing. And then they too will be snuffed out. Unrestrained hubris always leads to self-immolation." - by Chris Hedges, from :

facta non verba ...

[-] 1 points by krmlei (103) from New York, NY 11 years ago

Chris Hedges cowerdly reply after being attacked by Anti-Obama OWS members for writing an article about black block

[-] 2 points by zoom6000 (430) from St Petersburg, FL 11 years ago

Ok,then will vote for Mitt Romney

[-] 1 points by CRIMEinc (1) 11 years ago

What ever happened to the American Dream?

@merica 4 $ale http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F6WxM6izKyM

[-] 1 points by Goddard (1) 11 years ago

You all seem to be confused. The problem is not Obama. It's the administration. Have you already forgot your history? There were no good presidents since Benji Franklin I guess. And there won't be. They don't want to share JFK's fate. Abolish the administration which is corrupted by corporations and look for new solutions later. Power to the People!

[-] 1 points by bettydonnelly (115) 11 years ago

All Occupiers should watch this weeks Bill Moyers show on PBS. Senator Bernie Sanders and Dr Jill Stein Green Party candidate are interviewed. You wont believe how bad our political system has been corrupted.

[-] 1 points by DKAtoday (33802) from Coon Rapids, MN 11 years ago

GoodNight EverBody - hope you all had a great day.

[-] 1 points by krmlei (103) from New York, NY 11 years ago

Definition of a FRONT GROUP - a group whose intentions are different, even opposite than what is proclaimed. For instance, The Communist Party of America could be a front group for the Moonies. The Hari Krishnas can be a front group for the Vegetarian Society. The overall result of all the Liberal and Progressive causes being associated with OWS means that everyone in Obama's voting demographic has been tagged in one way or another by OWS.

The end result: The election of Romney this November.

How? - voter suppresion laws

  • OWS influence in various causes to persuade voters to either not vote or to put vote to third party.

In a 50/50 chance election, this will tilt the favor towards Romney as a statistical certainty.

That's a win for the Koch Brothers

[-] 1 points by wentbe (1) from Schenectady, NY 11 years ago

So the answer is don't vote? I voted for President Obama & continue to support him. The beauty of the Occupy movement for me was that it was outside of politics pushing for change from the outside. I know that a vote does not immediately correspond change, throughout the history of this country social change has taken time & well directed actions from the people. I knew in 2008 that I was voting for a human being, I knew I was not voting for Jesus. But I will suggest that, at least from my vantage point a lot of the outrage is directed at this president, I know that no good change will come if I sit on my hands and don't vote and Romney/Ryan is elected. But the citizens of this country who are disappointed in this administration must take some responsibility as well. Why weren't there massive demonstrations when the closure of Gitmo was being debated? Why didn't we protest against those who blocked its closure? When it came time for the trials of suspected terrorists in NYC why wasn't there mass demonstrations against those who were obstructing? When health care was being debated why weren't there mass demonstrations advocating for single payor? No matter what political systems are set up, if the people want certain changes it requires active participation on their part as well. If you don't believe in certain policies then act up against them, the pursuit of social justice is not a spectator sport. But at the same time, the GOP should not escape blameless, why aren't there massive demonstrations against voter suppression or the legislation that limits a woman's ability to choose, or cuts to social service programs.

[-] 1 points by poof (-10) 11 years ago

VQkag2 refuses to comment here because his idol, Obama, is under the radar. Quite funny!

Indeed, the whole Twinkle Team is rather silent in this posting.

[-] 2 points by conservatroll (187) 11 years ago

Mixing metaphors! Obama is under Fire. His leadership has been under the radar!

[-] 0 points by hchc (3297) from Tampa, FL 11 years ago

He's busy juggling five bowling pins or riding his unicycle while blowing fire haha..

[-] 1 points by ElectoralReform (73) 11 years ago

Absolutely, keep up the good work and let's get ows on board to hold the Ds accountable!

[-] 1 points by frogmanofborneo (602) from New York, NY 11 years ago

This is a good thing to do. Keep the heat on no matter who wins the election. And it's best to hit the dems in fact because their base is most sympathetic top what Occupy has been about.

[-] 2 points by TitusMoans (2451) from Boulder City, NV 11 years ago

You're on the money. The only time the politicians pay any attention is at election time. Let's make them pay close attention.

[-] 5 points by ElectoralReform (73) 11 years ago

Loud and clear, get OWS to unify behind some core principles, and make it clear that the leadership of the Ds has NOT been behind our core principles. And them saying "oh well we tried, but those bad bad Rs ..." is a stupid argument. They had lots of time, many ways to make action, many executive orders that could be implemented.... No, the Ds blew it. OWS needs to make a concise list of the most important elements of the movement, and get candidates to sign on, or they will not be supported.

I can't believe how many people come on this forum to say how they still believe in Obama ( he is a great orator ..) and then accuse ME of being against progressive movements because I want people to vote for Jill Stein instead of the peace prize winning, war escalating Obama.

[-] 3 points by TitusMoans (2451) from Boulder City, NV 11 years ago

The arguments used by Dem partisans often border on ridiculous. Obama had almost a super majority for the first two years and failed to pass meaningful, progressive legislation. Oh, he did manage to get the bailouts through both Houses of Congress.

Health care has been one of his greatest failings. He basically sat on the sidelines while the Congress hashed out the watered-down bill. He never led, which is a president's job. As a matter of fact Obama rarely leads; more often simply reacts.

[-] 1 points by Mike122333 (102) 11 years ago

He leads just fine. The Rs are always trying to play chicken with him by hoping he will misstep in a way they can politically exploit.

[-] 1 points by TitusMoans (2451) from Boulder City, NV 11 years ago

You have a different view than I.

[-] 1 points by bettydonnelly (115) 11 years ago

Lets call Romney Mr .01 % ... Obama stinks. What to do ??? I wish I knew.

[-] 2 points by hchc (3297) from Tampa, FL 11 years ago

The nation is going into the toilet regardless of who is elected, because they are already bought and America is for sale.

That being said, there are 364 other days in a year that can be used to create new, different options.

[-] 1 points by daveindenver (36) 11 years ago

Take a look at this whole web site. 23 comments here, mostly by a couple of people. Other posts have 0 comments after 5 hours. What a bunch of losers the whole OWS movement is. I agree with some of the problems you identify but none of the solutions. Just a bunch of meaningless slogans.

[-] 3 points by Manna (85) 11 years ago

Unfortunately you are right. We need change but change comes only with focused attention and a core plan to bloom out as true life. Chattering is not the way to change. I sometimes post my voice, as I suppose I have some focused thoughts, but I may be mistaken, as my postings remain mostly unresponded. Unless I am imagining things, both the 1% and 99% are scattered in thought. We need education, we need society, we need industry but in a unified way. Scattering is like stammering--the message remains undelivered. I do not mean to hurt anyone but that is the way truth works.

We need people like you--decisive before doing something. Have my respect.

[-] 1 points by flip (7101) 11 years ago

well that was very helpful

[-] 0 points by Bighead1883 (285) 11 years ago

OK,now go away and don`t come back G Dubya Bush.

[-] 0 points by OTP (-203) from Tampa, FL 11 years ago

Mitt=Obama=McCain=Bush=Clinton=Elites

Elites + Occupy = Occupy goes to jail. In every city. Regardless if its Dems or Reps running it.

[Removed]

[-] 0 points by Manna (85) 11 years ago

As per Veda, life's primary needs are:

  1. Food
  2. Shelter
  3. Romance
  4. Self-support knowledge
  5. Guarantee of above

Can Obama or Romney or any Leader can do it? The yogis say, "One blind cannot lead other blinds." We need wise leaders as depicted by Sri Arjuna and Noah--approximately. Lesser people do not have the power to lead and hence they do not have the base-intelligence as outlined; rather they release human-dogs and dog-dogs to restrict revolting people.

So, forget the left and forget the right; concentrate on righteousness of the five Vedic principles that add clarity beyond all -isms. Today all -isms are moneyism; the details change but not the truth.

[-] 0 points by conservatroll (187) 11 years ago

Wow! just wow! Has OWS become Republican? I ask since many of the liberals here condemn anyone that points out the left/right paradigm is a distraction and that both parties are the same are right wing shills! Now I am confused.

[-] -1 points by DKAtoday (33802) from Coon Rapids, MN 11 years ago

Nothing has changed - you started out confused - and confused you remain - All Better Now?

[-] 0 points by Bighead1883 (285) 11 years ago

I think you just replied to Mitt Romney`s aka,DK.

[-] 0 points by DKAtoday (33802) from Coon Rapids, MN 11 years ago

Is the conservatroll a lying liar that lies about it's lies cause it lost track of it's lies?

Huh. maybe there is a program - I mean look at how AynRyan is coming along.

[-] 0 points by Bighead1883 (285) 11 years ago

Come to think about more,and DK I see you a right on,its Ryans aka for sure.

[-] 0 points by DKAtoday (33802) from Coon Rapids, MN 11 years ago

Ick either way. How disgusting to be either individual or worse to admire them. I'm gonna be sick....oooo....ohhhh....ack...

[-] 1 points by Bighead1883 (285) 11 years ago

Got enough Obamacare?

[-] 2 points by DKAtoday (33802) from Coon Rapids, MN 11 years ago

I wish I had My Minnesota Care Back - it was better then my private insurance when I was working which was better then the Medicare I now have ( but not by much ) - both medicare and the Minnesota cost less then my private Ins. and the Minnesota care less then the Medicare.

We have one hell of a long way to go at this point in time to a good health care system - then longer to a gr8 one.

[-] 1 points by Bighead1883 (285) 11 years ago

Well the only way to improve things is YELL loudly at the wrongdoers in their wrongdoings.Time to ramp up the noise campaign.Solidarity DK.

[-] 1 points by DKAtoday (33802) from Coon Rapids, MN 11 years ago

Keep-on Keeping-ON.

Spread the word far and wide and as fast as is possible.

Thanks for the conversation.

[-] 1 points by Bighead1883 (285) 11 years ago

Cheers and don`t get Mediscared by your Robocall from the Republicans.

[-] 1 points by DKAtoday (33802) from Coon Rapids, MN 11 years ago

LOL - they don't have my number - I am about as unlisted as you can get - so if I get a call - I will be a tad bit concerned.

[-] 1 points by Bighead1883 (285) 11 years ago

Dont worry,itll be our mob,they want to keep tabs,hear all our conversations and keep telephone and ISP records for at least two years.The new corporation.Gestapo Inc,coming to a suburb near us all.Security,bullshit,just total control.Hey stop tatooing those numbers on my arm,bugger off!!!This time I am gone DK,bye.

[-] 2 points by DKAtoday (33802) from Coon Rapids, MN 11 years ago

aAHhahahahahahoohoohohoheheheee.... Yep the ones we do not want to know who we are - already do. Forum anonymity is to keep the unskilled nuisances from being more of a pest then they already are on the forum.

[-] -1 points by hchc (3297) from Tampa, FL 11 years ago

(#)occupyeverything

[-] -1 points by Bighead1883 (285) 11 years ago

Two months and some days until what?.Is it that apathy and despair have taken centre stage because democracy was found never to have existed?Or,is it that all that was once owned and paid for by our forefathers sold out to big business by totally corrupt politicians,that shames us all so?Why did we not see this?We allowed it to happen by our voting pattern of red or blue,that long ago mingled into purple just like a Roman Senators toga of old.We should stop worrying about and sticking our noses into our neighbours affairs and be concerned with fixing and keeping our own house in order.The real book of democracy needs to be written collectively.Corruption in the highest levels of government and business needs to be rooted out,crushed,and stopped.You can be part of this strive toward democracy,THINK before you vote.Basically the choice is change or the same,the latter is represented by the major parties.All Western World governments are in this corrupt capitalistic betrayal of their own populations even here in Australia.

[-] -1 points by richardkentgates (3269) 11 years ago

I love you guys.

[-] 1 points by DKAtoday (33802) from Coon Rapids, MN 11 years ago

No - You can't Have Their Bud - Light.

[-] -1 points by richardkentgates (3269) 11 years ago

lol. Nice.