4 chapters across the catalog
A donor from New Zealand provides an update on the resignation of Prime Minister John Key and the ongoing debate over marijuana legalization. The note discusses the conflict between potential cannabis tax revenue and the existing $1.7 billion collected from tobacco taxes.
New Zealand Election, Kim Dotcom, Snowden and Greenwald Appearance
The hosts critique the "Moment of Truth" event in New Zealand organized by Kim Dotcom, featuring Edward Snowden and Glenn Greenwald via video link. They argue the event was a political failure, as Dotcom's Mana Party lost its only seat in Parliament while Prime Minister John Key won a massive victory. The hosts characterize the participants as arrogant and out of touch with average New Zealand voters.
New Zealand GCSB Bill, Prime Minister John Key
New Zealand Prime Minister John Key is criticized for his support of the GCSB bill, which expands government surveillance powers. In a press conference, Key dismissed public concerns by claiming citizens care more about "snapper quotas" (fishing limits) than privacy laws. The bill allows the Prime Minister to appoint the judge who signs surveillance warrants, which Key then co-signs, creating a lack of independent oversight.
Twitter Account Hack, John C. Dvorak Password Security
John C. Dvorak addresses reports that his Twitter account was compromised over the weekend. He clarifies that while some suspected a root server breach, the vulnerability was likely due to a "skeleton key" password he reused across multiple low-security forums. Dvorak confirms he has since updated his credentials but remains indifferent to the security of non-essential forum accounts.
