It's the Greedy, Stupid

Regarding the reportedly illegal ram-rod of injustice in Wisconsin last night (see any news website or newspaper or TV news program for details), I have a question: had it been a Democratic Governor, assembly, senate, how would those who are applauding the temporary outcome feel or behave? After all, the “fiscal” excuse for the bill to cut state employee union collective bargaining/negotiating was removed from the “law” that was passed. It was never, ever about a budget deficit; it was and is a direct attack against unions. Clear and simple. And devious. Not to ignore “UN-American.”

One Conservative argument is that unions are not mentioned in the Constitution. Has anyone read the Constitution lately?

This is the Preamble: We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure Domestic Tranquility, provide for the common Defense, promote the General Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America.

The above is quite broad with language, isn’t it? Anyone could make their case on what each word actually means; however, I believe the point of the Constitution is clear: everyone residing in America has the right to be living a full and good life without dictatorial or noble rule or the shackles of following one religion (as further specified in the body of the law of the land).

In reading the actual Constitution and its numerous amendments, the arguments over how the Constitution doesn’t mention unions or universal health care, etc. is foolish at best. Almost anything in the Constitution can be amended by Congress, and has been. Women and African Americans can vote...are the classic examples.

Where does it say that churches and charities are where one should go for assistance if needed – which GOPer's usually point to as replacements for government-funded entities like healthcare.... *ahem*....which is another topic completely, nor is there a specific rule of government to create safety nets for the “downtrodden.”  The interpretation goes both ways…and, again, the language is broad. A President is allowed, by law, to enact whatever is necessary to ensure the well-being (“welfare”) of U.S. inhabitants. I haven’t read a thing in the Constitution that suggests otherwise.

So, what’s wrong with Social Security when working Americans have paid into it? What’s wrong with a group of workers gathering together to allow a representative to ensure that they are treated with respect and have a “say” in how their work is protected and enacted? Unions are like having an agent or attorney to assist you in negotiating details of a business arrangement.

There is usually a bit of rumbling on both ends along the way, but in the end a compromise (contract) has been reached (signed). Easy concept/example, isn't it? No biggie, guys. Everyone deserves help if they want and/or need it. That is what a union does.

For years Republican and Democratic presidents and governors have allowed unions to exist. Now we have a serious threat to one group’s freedom of speech per the slippery actions of a brazen power-obsessed Governor who allowed his legislature to tip-toe around the overall law of Quorums.

What exactly is a “Quorum”? Per any dictionary, it is “the number of members required to be present for business to be legally conducted.”

What is Wisconsin’s law on a Quorum? 

Senate Rule 15. Roll call, quorum. Before proceeding to business, the roll of the members shall be called, and the names of those present and those absent shall be entered on the journal. A majority of the membership presently serving must be present to constitute a quorum for the transaction of business; a smaller number, however, can adjourn; and may compel the attendance of absent members. When any roll call discloses the lack of a quorum, no further business may be conducted until a quorum is obtained, but the members present may take measures to procure a quorum or may adjourn.

How did the Republican Senate pull their dastardly little trick to strip collective bargaining last night?  Wisconsin requires a 2/3 quorum for budget votes. By tossing-out a BUDGETARY element to the vote, the primary purpose of all of this mess was achieved. You can bet the legal argument will be that the law passed last night is legal based on that lovely omission.
 
A trend is growing among GOP Governors in Ohio, Indiana, Michigan…. It is a design to privatize almost everything from our public works systems to ensure that Big Biz will get the contracts once held by unions and thus, satisfy those who will benefit the most from such changes in the system.
 
Which means, once again in the mantra, more money going to the wealthy; less money to those who keep the grocery stores and other businesses alive. More foreclosures; homelessness; increased illness due to lack of money for health prevention and urgent medical attention. Hello to the latest 3rd World Country = the US of A.
 
If one is to follow the overall spirit of the Constitution, then it seems to me that what is rearing an ugly mood in this country against anti-union, anti-decent government reps, could be a slap by these so-called “Patriots” at key words in the Preamble: the “welfare” – “prosperity” – of the nation (not just a privileged few – isn’t that why the pilgrims/founders left England). It’s not quite treason, but it’s beginning to feel a lot like a lack of clear-headed reason.