Blog - OtherWords

Raw Trade Deals

After years of debate and delay, Congress finally passed those free-trade agreements with South Korea, Colombia, and Panama. There go 159,000 more jobs that we’re likely to lose to Seoul after the Korean deal goes into effect on March 15, according to the Economic Policy Institute. And 55,000 to Bogotá, after the Colombian pact becomes operative too.

Corporations Commit Atrocities, My Friend

by Emily Schwartz Greco

The Supreme Court heard arguments in a crucial case yesterday that could have major ramifications for corporate accountability.

Polls and Local Resolutions Underscore Support for Military Spending Cuts

by Mike Prokosch

In Washington, senators and Pentagon officials are saying the sky will fall if we cut one more cent from the military budget. But a very different message is building in the heartland.

The Lineup: Week of Feb. 27-March 4, 2012

by Emily Schwartz Greco

Scott Williams explains why Congress should preserve funding that makes it safer to ride bicycles.

Running Against Islam

by John Feffer

Every political season has its hot-button issues. There’s race, abortion, lunar colonies. But the hottest hot-button issue these days, judging from comments by Republican presidential hopefuls as well as what happened during the 2010 mid-term elections, is Islam.

Soaking the Customer

by Wenonah Hauter

Ruby Williams, a 78-year-old Aqua Pennsylvania customer, got stuck with a $40,000 water bill because of a serious leak in the pipes under her home in Bristol Township, Pennsylvania. After her situation garnered national media attention, the private company agreed to reduce her bill to a few hundred dollars.

Shifting Gears

by Scott Williams

Over the past 60 years, transportation has changed less than might have been expected. Still no jetpacks, for example. And while this might change after the presidential election, we’re not yet commuting to jobs on the moon.

Playing Politics with the Courts

by Marge Baker

Americans rely on having a fair and functioning judicial system that’s there for us when we need it. The courtroom is one place where we can go, no matter who we are, and know we’ll have a fair hearing — no matter whom we’re up against. But for our judicial system to function, the Senate must do its job and confirm our judges. And right now, the Senate isn’t doing its job.