Political Figures

Scott Walker, Science and Iowa Scott Walker, Science and Iowa

“When he was asked about his belief in evolution, Mr. Walker said, ‘I’m going to punt on that one.’”                                                                                         — The New York Times In Iowa, the GOP contains A bloc of folks convinced that Darwin’s wrong. So when the subject’s raised, it’s no surprise If every candidate is fourth and long.

Feb 25, 2015 / Column / Calvin Trillin

If Congress Passes Obama’s War Request, It Authorizes Operations in All These Countries

If Congress Passes Obama’s War Request, It Authorizes Operations in All These Countries If Congress Passes Obama’s War Request, It Authorizes Operations in All These Countries

There are no geographic boundaries in Obama’s proposed AUMF, and ISIL “affiliates” are popping up everywhere.

Feb 20, 2015 / George Zornick

Libertarian Medicine From Rand Paul, MD Libertarian Medicine From Rand Paul, MD

Senator Rand Paul, a doctor, says the measles vaccine can cause “profound mental disorders.” —News reports On vaccines, Paul says that what should be conceded Is state-imposed treatment leaves freedom impeded. One hopes parents know, lest this doofus be heeded, A second opinion in this case is needed.

Feb 11, 2015 / Column / Calvin Trillin

How Obama Can Stick It To Netanyahu

How Obama Can Stick It To Netanyahu How Obama Can Stick It To Netanyahu

Inking a deal with Iran soon would box the Israeli Prime Minister into denouncing a major foreign policy achievement.

Feb 11, 2015 / Ali Gharib

Is Torture Inevitable? These 6 Americans Said No

Is Torture Inevitable? These 6 Americans Said No Is Torture Inevitable? These 6 Americans Said No

Bush and Cheney claimed torture was the only option. These soldiers, agents and nurses proved them wrong.

Feb 10, 2015 / Rebecca Gordon

Obama Is Leading the Way Toward Economic Catastrophe

Obama Is Leading the Way Toward Economic Catastrophe Obama Is Leading the Way Toward Economic Catastrophe

If he doesn't read the writing on the bank notes, the president will be remembered as “Wrong-Way Obama.”

Feb 9, 2015 / William Greider

How Mitt Got Bushwhacked in the GOP’s ‘Establishment Primary’

How Mitt Got Bushwhacked in the GOP’s ‘Establishment Primary’ How Mitt Got Bushwhacked in the GOP’s ‘Establishment Primary’

The Bush Machine plays for keeps—and this time, they hauled out the heavy artillery to shoot down Romney.

Feb 4, 2015 / John Nichols

Romney, Not Finding Donor Support, Decides Not to Run Romney, Not Finding Donor Support, Decides Not to Run

Unlimited donations make The role of fat cats truly stunning. They don’t just sway who’ll win the race. It’s up to them to pick who’s running.

Feb 4, 2015 / Column / Calvin Trillin

The Afghanistan War Is Still Raging—but This Time It’s Being Waged by Contractors

The Afghanistan War Is Still Raging—but This Time It’s Being Waged by Contractors The Afghanistan War Is Still Raging—but This Time It’s Being Waged by Contractors

The mission isn't “over”… it’s just been reassigned.

Feb 4, 2015 / Tim Shorrock

Obama’s Defense Secretary Nominee Is Open to Having More Troops in Afghanistan

Obama’s Defense Secretary Nominee Is Open to Having More Troops in Afghanistan Obama’s Defense Secretary Nominee Is Open to Having More Troops in Afghanistan

Ashton Carter will tell the Senate Wednesday he would recommend more troops if conditions “degrade.”

Feb 4, 2015 / George Zornick

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