6 chapters across the catalog
The Senate voted 60-37 to grant President Obama fast-track trade negotiating authority for the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP). The hosts list the 13 Democrats who sided with Republicans to pass the measure and note that Republican presidential candidates Ted Cruz and Rand Paul voted against it. The TPP involves 12 countries and approximately 40% of the global economy.
The hosts deconstruct the legislative strategy used to pass fast-track authority after it initially failed in the House. By decoupling worker assistance from the trade bill and attaching it to a popular African trade deal, leadership secured the support of the Black Caucus. The hosts argue that Democrats used the assistance bill as a political excuse while ultimately favoring the trade deal.
Obama Trade Strategy, TPP Fast-Track Authority, Global Trade Rules
President Obama defends his push for fast-track trade authority, arguing that the United States must write the rules of global trade before China does. Critics highlight the President's repetitive rhetoric, specifically his claim that he "wouldn't be doing it" if it weren't the right thing for American workers. The administration faces significant opposition from within the Democratic party regarding the Trans-Pacific Partnership.
Secret Negotiations, WTO and Country of Origin Labeling
Congressman Peter DeFazio explains how the TPP could allow corporations to challenge domestic laws, citing the recent repeal of country-of-origin meat labeling as a precursor. The hosts discuss the strategic use of secrecy in trade negotiations to avoid public scrutiny. They jokingly endorse the "New World Order" and Bilderberg to highlight the speed of global integration.
Trans-Pacific Partnership, Republican Fast-Track Authority
The Republican-controlled Congress is expected to grant President Obama fast-track negotiating authority for the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP). While some Democrats oppose the deal to protect the U.S. market, Republicans may push for the total elimination of tariffs. The hosts discuss the potential impact on Asian nations like Japan and Malaysia.
Headphone Testing and Mumble Audio Troubleshooting
The hosts engage in a lengthy technical debate regarding audio feedback loops in the Mumble software. Adam Curry argues that John Dvorak's refusal to wear headphones is causing echo cancellation software to trigger, while Dvorak blames the software drivers and hardware configuration.
