7 chapters across the catalog
The SAFE Act, Non-Citizen Voting and Congressional Posturing
The House passed the SAFE Act, a bill introduced by Chip Roy that would require proof of citizenship for federal elections. While Republicans argue it secures elections, Democrats claim it creates unnecessary barriers for millions of Americans without easy access to birth certificates. The bill is viewed as political posturing ahead of the November election.
The "Moscow Mitch" nickname for Senator Mitch McConnell gained traction after he blocked the Securing America's Federal Elections (SAFE) Act. Critics, including Joe Scarborough, use the moniker to highlight McConnell's refusal to bring election security bills to the floor. The discussion explores the Republican stance that the bill would unconstitutionally federalize state-run elections.
EPA Flint Water Crisis, Delayed Emergency Order
A report found the EPA had sufficient information by June 2015 to issue an emergency order regarding the Flint, Michigan water crisis but failed to act until January 2016. The agency is criticized for prioritizing regulations over the immediate safety of citizens being poisoned by lead.
Obama's Prison Visit, Gangster Persona, and San Quentin
President Obama visited a correctional facility to promote the SAFE Act, which aims to reduce sentences for non-violent offenders. The hosts mock Obama's "gangster" persona during his interactions with inmates, noting his use of slang and informal greetings. They find his comment thanking the prisoners for "taking the time to meet" with him particularly absurd given their incarceration.
Halliburton Loophole, Fracking, Safe Drinking Water Act
The "Halliburton Loophole," established during Dick Cheney's vice presidency, exempts hydraulic fracturing from EPA supervision under the Safe Drinking Water Act. This allows the oil and gas industry to inject hazardous materials near drinking water supplies. The hosts note that the Obama administration has continued to support and expand fracking despite these environmental risks.
The Canadian government has introduced the "Safe Streets and Communities Act," a mega-bill that implements mandatory minimum sentences and doubles penalties for growing marijuana. Critics argue the bill is a waste of money given that crime rates have been dropping for 20 years. The expansion is viewed as an effort to mirror the US prison-industrial complex and create a new pool of cheap prison labor.
The SAFE Act (Securing Adolescents from Exploitation Online Act) passed the House 409-2, with Representative Ron Paul being one of the few dissenters. The bill mandates that providers of open Wi-Fi, including coffee shops and libraries, must report illegal images or face massive fines. Opponents claim the act is a form of "censorship theater" that places impossible technological burdens on small businesses and internet service providers.
