STARVING TEACHERS CHOOSE THE RIGHT GIG JOB TO AVOID GETTING FIRED

STARVING TEACHERS CHOOSE THE RIGHT GIG JOB TO AVOID GETTING FIRED

Attention all starving teachers! Are you tired of living paycheck to paycheck? Do you want to have a little extra cash to splurge on those overpriced lattes or avocado toast? Well, fear not my fellow educators, for gig work is here to save the day!

But wait, before you go signing up to perform on a pornography website like our dear friend Brianna Coppage, let's take a closer look at what gig work entails for teachers.

First off, let's address the elephant in the room. No, teachers do not have to take a vow of poverty to teach. However, it sure feels like it sometimes. The average teacher salary in the US is $65,090, but that varies widely depending on the state and school district. In some states, the average salary is as low as $40,000. It's no wonder teachers are turning to gig work to supplement their income.

Gig work can include anything from driving for Uber or Lyft, delivering food for DoorDash or Grubhub, or even tutoring students online. The possibilities are endless! But before you start dreaming of all the extra cash you'll be raking in, let's take a closer look at the challenges of gig work for teachers.

One of the biggest challenges is the unpredictable hours. You never know when you'll get a ride request or a food delivery order. This can make it difficult to plan your schedule around your teaching job. Plus, gig work doesn't come with the same benefits as a full-time job, so you'll have to factor in things like health insurance and retirement savings.

Another challenge is self-employment taxes. As a gig worker, you're responsible for paying your own taxes. This can be confusing and overwhelming, especially if you're not used to dealing with taxes.

But fear not, my fellow teachers! There are plenty of gig work options out there that can work around your teaching schedule and provide some extra cash. Tutoring is a popular choice, as it allows you to use your teaching skills and expertise to help students outside of the classroom. Plus, you can set your own hours and rates.

Driving for Uber or Lyft can also be a good option, especially if you enjoy driving and meeting new people. Just be prepared for some interesting conversations with your passengers.

If you're more of a homebody, delivering food for DoorDash or Grubhub might be more your speed. You can work from the comfort of your own home and still make some extra cash.

But let's not forget about the more unconventional gig work options out there. Have a talent for writing or graphic design? Freelance work might be right up your alley. Are you a social media whiz? Consider offering your services as a consultant to small businesses.

The possibilities are endless, my friends. Just remember to choose your gig work carefully and don't end up like our dear friend Brianna Coppage. We don't want any teachers getting put on leave for performing on a pornography website.

In conclusion, gig work can be a great way for teachers to supplement their income and have a little extra cash to splurge on those overpriced lattes or avocado toast. Just be aware of the challenges and choose your gig work carefully. And whatever you do, remember that you will be judged by what Jesus would do. So maybe skip the pornography website gig.

Missouri high school teacher is put on leave after school officials discover her page on porn site | KTVO https://ktvo.com/news/local/missouri-high-school-teacher-is-put-on-leave-after-school-officials-discover-her-page-on-porn-site

Missouri high school teacher is put on leave after school officials discover her page on porn site - The Washington Post https://www.washingtonpost.com/national/2023/09/29/missouri-teacher-porn-site/6cda7f9c-5ef3-11ee-b961-94e18b27be28_story.html 

Missouri teacher on leave after OnlyFans account discovered https://www.stltoday.com/news/local/education/missouri-teacher-on-leave-after-school-district-discovers-her-onlyfans-porn-page/article_92ef5c4a-5e2e-11ee-b8be-d716acce2ff8.html 

Missouri teacher put on leave officials discover her OnlyFans page | Toronto Sun https://torontosun.com/news/world/missouri-high-school-teacher-put-on-leave-after-school-officials-discover-her-page-on-porn-site 

THE DEFT DIVE

FROM BARD AI

**Underpaid teachers doing gig work to supplement income**

In many parts of the United States, teachers are underpaid. The average salary for a public school teacher in the US is $65,090, but this varies widely by state and school district. In some states, the average teacher salary is as low as $40,000.

Many teachers struggle to make ends meet on their salaries alone. This is especially true for teachers who have families or who live in high-cost areas. As a result, many teachers turn to gig work to supplement their income.

Gig work is any type of work that is done on a temporary or freelance basis. It can include things like driving for Uber or Lyft, delivering food for DoorDash or Grubhub, or tutoring students online.

Gig work can be a flexible and convenient way for teachers to make extra money. However, it is also important to note that gig work can be unpredictable and unstable. Teachers who do gig work may have to work long hours, and they may not have the same benefits as full-time employees.

**Why do teachers do gig work?**

There are a number of reasons why teachers choose to do gig work. Some of the most common reasons include:

• * To supplement their income
• * To pay off student loans
• * To save for retirement
• * To have more flexibility in their schedules
• * To pursue their passions

**What types of gig work do teachers do?**

Teachers do a variety of different types of gig work. Some of the most common types of gig work for teachers include:

• * Tutoring
• * Driving for Uber or Lyft
• * Delivering food for DoorDash or Grubhub
• * Writing and editing
• * Freelance graphic design
• * Social media marketing
• * Consulting

• **Challenges of gig work for teachers**
• Gig work can be a great way for teachers to earn extra money, but there are also some challenges that teachers should be aware of. Some of the most common challenges of gig work for teachers include:

• * Unpredictable hours
• * Lack of benefits
• * Self-employment taxes
• * Competition

**How can teachers be successful at gig work?**

There are a number of things that teachers can do to be successful at gig work. Some of the most important things to keep in mind include:

• * Choose a gig that is a good fit for your skills and interests
• * Set realistic expectations for your earnings
• * Be professional and reliable
• * Market your services effectively
• * Build relationships with clients

**Conclusion**

Gig work can be a great way for teachers to supplement their income and pursue their passions. However, it is important to be aware of the challenges of gig work and to take steps to be successful.

**What can be done to address the issue of underpaid teachers?**

There are a number of things that can be done to address the issue of underpaid teachers. Some of the most important things to do include:

• * Increase teacher salaries
• * Provide teachers with more support and resources
• * Reduce the amount of paperwork and other bureaucratic tasks that teachers have to do
• * Improve teacher working conditions
• * Make the teaching profession more attractive to new recruits

By taking these steps, we can help to ensure that all teachers are able to live comfortably and focus on their job of educating our children.

**Teachers and moral turpitude laws or policies**

Moral turpitude is a legal term that refers to conduct that is considered to be dishonest, immoral, or unethical. Moral turpitude laws or policies are designed to protect the public from individuals who have engaged in such conduct.

In the context of education, moral turpitude laws or policies are often used to screen and dismiss teachers who have committed certain types of crimes or offenses. These crimes or offenses may include:

• * Sex offenses
• * Drug offenses
• * Violent crimes
• * Fraud
• * Theft
• * Other crimes that are considered to be morally reprehensible

The specific crimes or offenses that are considered to constitute moral turpitude vary from state to state. However, there is a general consensus that certain types of crimes, such as sex offenses and violent crimes, are always considered to be morally reprehensible.

**Rationale for moral turpitude laws or policies**

There are a number of reasons why moral turpitude laws or policies are used in education. One reason is to protect students from harm. Teachers who have committed certain types of crimes, such as sex offenses or violent crimes, may pose a risk to students.

Another reason for moral turpitude laws or policies is to maintain the public's trust in the education system. Teachers are entrusted with the education and care of children. When a teacher commits a crime of moral turpitude, it can damage the public's trust in the education system.

**Criticism of moral turpitude laws or policies**

There has been some criticism of moral turpitude laws or policies in education. Some critics argue that these laws or policies are too broad and that they can be used to dismiss teachers for relatively minor offenses.

Other critics argue that moral turpitude laws or policies can be discriminatory. For example, these laws or policies may be more likely to be used to dismiss teachers of color or teachers from low-income backgrounds.

**Conclusion**

Moral turpitude laws or policies can be a useful tool for protecting students and maintaining the public's trust in the education system. However, it is important to ensure that these laws or policies are applied fairly and consistently.

**Recommendations for teachers**

If you are a teacher, it is important to be aware of the moral turpitude laws or policies that are in place in your state. You should also be aware of the specific crimes or offenses that are considered to constitute moral turpitude in your state.

If you are accused of a crime or offense that could be considered moral turpitude, it is important to speak with an attorney immediately. An attorney can help you to understand your rights and to defend yourself against the charges.

FROM BING AI

You asked me to do a deep dive on underpaid teachers doing gig work to supplement income. Here is what I found:

• - According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), nearly 1 in 5 American public school teachers work a second job outside of the classroom². This is higher than the average rate of multiple job holding for all workers, which was 5.1% in 2021¹.
• - The main reason why teachers work a second job is to make ends meet. Teachers are underpaid in comparison to similarly educated professionals—by an estimated 24% in 2021 (adjusted for inflation)¹. The average teacher salary in the U.S. was $63,645 in 2020-21, but it varied widely by state, from $45,300 in Mississippi to $85,889 in New York³.
• - Teachers also face rising costs of living, student debt, child care expenses, and health care premiums. Many teachers report that they struggle to pay for basic necessities, such as food, rent, and utilities². Some teachers even resort to crowdfunding platforms, such as DonorsChoose and GoFundMe, to raise money for classroom supplies and personal emergencies⁴.
• - The types of second jobs that teachers work vary depending on their skills, interests, and availability. Some common side hustles for teachers include tutoring, coaching, babysitting, driving for Uber or Lyft, delivering food or groceries, selling crafts or products online, freelancing, blogging, podcasting, and more. Some teachers also work seasonal jobs during the summer break, such as camp counselors, lifeguards, or tour guides.
• - Working a second job can have both positive and negative effects on teachers and their students. On the one hand, it can provide extra income, personal fulfillment, professional development, and networking opportunities for teachers. On the other hand, it can also increase stress, fatigue, burnout, and turnover among teachers². It can also reduce the time and energy that teachers have for planning lessons, grading assignments, collaborating with colleagues, and engaging with students and families².

Bing, 10/1/2023

• (1) Our Nation’s Teachers Are Hustling to Survive | EdSurge News. https://www.edsurge.com/news/2022-03-30-our-nation-s-teachers-are-hustling-to-survive.
• (2) Ways to reform teacher compensation, beyond a $60,000 ... - Brookings. https://www.brookings.edu/articles/ways-to-reform-teacher-compensation-beyond-a-60000-minimum-salary/.
• (3) We all know teachers are underpaid. But who imagined it was this bad?. https://www.motherjones.com/politics/2022/03/we-all-know-teachers-are-underpaid-but-who-imagined-it-was-this-bad/.
• (4) 31 Side Hustles for Teachers: How to Make Extra Money. https://teachergoals.com/31-side-hustles-for-teachers-how-to-make-extra-money-teachergoals/.

Teachers and moral turpitude laws or policies. 

• - Moral turpitude is a legal term that refers to conduct that is contrary to the accepted standards of morality, honesty, or justice. It is often used as a ground for revoking or suspending the professional licenses of certain occupations, such as teachers, lawyers, doctors, and nurses¹.
• - The concept of moral turpitude is vague and subjective, and it varies from state to state. Some states have specific lists of crimes or offenses that constitute moral turpitude, while others leave it to the discretion of the courts or administrative agencies to determine on a case-by-case basis¹².
• - Teachers are subject to moral turpitude laws or policies in almost every state. These laws or policies allow the state or local education authorities to discipline teachers for engaging in immoral conduct, either inside or outside of the classroom. The types of discipline may include reprimand, suspension, revocation, or denial of teaching certificates or licenses¹².
• - The types of conduct that may be considered immoral for teachers include, but are not limited to: sexual misconduct, substance abuse, dishonesty, fraud, theft, violence, child abuse, neglect of duty, violation of professional ethics, or conviction of a crime involving moral turpitude¹²³⁴.
• - The application and enforcement of moral turpitude laws or policies for teachers may raise several legal and ethical issues, such as: the definition and scope of moral turpitude, the due process rights of teachers, the impact on academic freedom and diversity, the consistency and fairness of disciplinary decisions, and the balance between protecting the public interest and respecting the personal privacy of teachers¹²³⁵.

Bing, 10/1/2023

• (1) Teachers' Rights: State and Local Laws - FindLaw. https://www.findlaw.com/education/teachers-rights/teachers-rights-state-and-local-laws.html.
• (2) Educator Misconduct - Professional Standards and Practices Commission. https://www.pspc.education.pa.gov/Promoting-Ethical-Practices-Resources/Ethics-Toolkit/The-Commission-Professional-Discipline-and-the-code/Pages/Educator-Misconduct.aspx.
• (3) Even when they aren’t fired for being pregnant or gay, teachers face .... https://www.salon.com/2019/10/25/even-when-they-arent-fired-for-being-pregnant-or-gay-teachers-face-strict-moral-demands_partner/.
• (4) Moral Turpitude Guidance – Nebraska Department of Education. https://www.education.ne.gov/cc/moral-turpitude-guidance/.
• (5) Lawmakers struggle to define 'moral turpitude' - The Nevada Independent. https://thenevadaindependent.com/article/lawmakers-struggle-to-define-moral-turpitude-for-teacher-licensing.

Moral turpitude laws are laws that prohibit certain types of activities that are considered immoral, dishonest, or corrupt by the society. The activities that are prohibited by moral turpitude laws vary from state to state and from country to country, but some common examples are:

• - Crimes involving moral turpitude (CIMTs), such as murder, rape, fraud, forgery, robbery, arson, counterfeiting, and solicitation by prostitutes¹²³⁴⁵⁶.
• - Controlled substance violations, such as trafficking, manufacturing, or possessing illegal drugs, except for simple possession of 30 grams or less of marijuana².
• - False testimony under oath, such as lying to a court or an immigration officer for the purpose of obtaining any immigration benefit².
• - Prostitution offenses, such as engaging in prostitution, attempting or procuring to import prostitution, or receiving proceeds from prostitution².
• - Smuggling of a person, such as involving in smuggling of a person to enter or try to enter the United States in violation of law².
• - Polygamy, such as practicing or being involved in polygamy (the custom of having more than one spouse at the same time)².
• - Gambling offenses, such as committing two or more gambling offenses or deriving income principally from illegal gambling activities².

Moral turpitude laws may affect the eligibility of certain people for professional licenses, public office, immigration benefits, or naturalization. People who are convicted of or admit to committing any of the above activities may be barred from establishing good moral character, which is a requirement for many of these benefits. However, there may be some exceptions or waivers available depending on the nature and circumstances of the offense.

Bing, 10/1/2023

• (1) Moral Turpitude - Definition, Examples, Cases - Legal Dictionary. https://legaldictionary.net/moral-turpitude/.
• (2) Chapter 5 - Conditional Bars for Acts in Statutory Period | USCIS. https://www.uscis.gov/policy-manual/volume-12-part-f-chapter-5.
• (3) Crimes of moral turpitude under Texas law - Texas Law Guide | Texas .... https://kielichlawfirm.com/what-is-moral-turpitude/.
• (4) Moral turpitude Definition: 248 Samples | Law Insider. https://www.lawinsider.com/dictionary/moral-turpitude.
• (5) Moral Turpitude legal definition of Moral Turpitude. https://legal-dictionary.thefreedictionary.com/Moral+Turpitude.
• (6) What is Moral Turpitude? (with pictures) - MyLawQuestions. https://www.mylawquestions.com/what-is-moral-turpitude.htm.

TO AI OR NOT TO AI? THAT IS THE QUESTION AND THE ANSWER IS COMPLICATED

 

TO AI OR NOT TO AI? THAT IS THE QUESTION AND THE ANSWER IS COMPLICATED

AI or Artificial Intelligence, as the teachers call it, is a fascinating technology that has taken the world by storm. It has revolutionized the way we live and work, and it has also changed the way students learn. However, there seems to be a bit of a disconnect between how students use AI and how teachers perceive their usage. Let's take a closer look at this hilarious situation.

According to a recent survey by EdWeek Research Center, students use AI in a variety of ways. Some use it to help them with their homework and school assignments, while others use it to learn new things. Some even use it to be more creative and connect with other people who share their interests. However, when teachers were asked about how students use AI, they had a completely different perspective.

Teachers believe that students are most likely to use AI to cheat on their schoolwork. They also think that students use AI to plagiarize their work and write essays and other assignments. It's like they think that AI is some sort of magical genie that can do all their work for them. If only it were that simple!

The findings of these surveys suggest that teachers and policymakers need to be aware of the different ways that students are using AI. They should develop strategies to support students' use of AI in a positive and productive way. But how can they do that? Well, we have some hilarious suggestions.

Firstly, teachers can educate students about the responsible use of AI. They can tell them that AI is not a substitute for hard work and dedication. They can also integrate AI tools into their teaching and learning activities. For example, they can use AI tools to assess student learning and provide feedback. This will help students understand how to use AI in a positive way.

Secondly, teachers can develop assignments that require students to think critically about AI. For example, they can ask students to research the history of AI and its impact on society. This will help students understand the potential of AI and how it can be used in a positive way.

Lastly, policymakers can invest in research on the educational use of AI. They can develop policies and guidelines that support the responsible use of AI in schools. They can also provide training and support for teachers on how to use AI effectively in their classrooms.

In conclusion, AI is a powerful technology that can be used in a variety of ways. However, it's important to understand that it's not a substitute for hard work and dedication. Teachers and policymakers need to work together to support students' use of AI in a positive and productive way. So, let's all raise our glasses and say, "Viva la difference!"

How Students Use AI vs. How Teachers Think They Use It, in Charts (PAYWALL)  https://www.edweek.org/technology/how-students-use-ai-vs-how-teachers-think-they-use-it-in-charts/2023/09 

See what these Long Beach educators had to say about artificial intelligence | Herald Community Newspapers | www.liherald.com https://www.liherald.com/stories/see-what-these-long-beach-educators-had-to-say-about-artificial-intelligence,195481? 

Artificial intelligence trainings help teachers learn how to use AI in the classroom https://news.yahoo.com/artificial-intelligence-trainings-help-teachers-205514530.html

'Writing is thinking’: Educators both counter — and use — artificial intelligence | Lifestyles | niagara-gazette.com https://www.niagara-gazette.com/news/lifestyles/writing-is-thinking-educators-both-counter-and-use-artificial-intelligence/article_34762bf6-5e12-11ee-8c08-2b788d6c7924.html 

Data Dive: How parents feel about the role of technology in education | Ipsos https://www.ipsos.com/en/data-dive-how-parents-feel-about-role-technology-education 

Northwest Arkansas educators grapple with use of AI in classrooms https://www.arkansasonline.com/news/2023/oct/01/educators-grapple-with-use-of-ai-in-classrooms/ 

THE DEFT DIVE

FROM BARD AI

**How students use AI**

According to a recent survey by EdWeek Research Center, students use AI in a variety of ways, including:

• * To help them with their homework and school assignments (59%)
• * To learn new things (56%)
• * To be more creative (47%)
• * To connect with other people who share their interests (42%)
• * To get help with their mental health and well-being (38%)

**How teachers think students use AI**

Teachers' perceptions of how students use AI differ somewhat from students' own reports. According to the same EdWeek Research Center survey, teachers believe that students are most likely to use AI to:

• * Cheat on their schoolwork (58%)
• * Plagiarize their work (54%)
• * Write essays and other assignments (52%)
• * Get help with their homework (49%)
• * Learn new things (48%)

**Conclusion**

The charts above show that there is a gap between how students and teachers perceive the use of AI in education. Students are more likely to see AI as a tool for learning and creativity, while teachers are more concerned about the potential for AI to be used for cheating and plagiarism.

It is important to note that these are just two surveys, and more research is needed to better understand how students and teachers are using AI in education. However, the results of these surveys suggest that there is a need for more communication and collaboration between students and teachers about the use of AI in the classroom.

**Implications for teachers and policymakers**

The findings of these surveys suggest that teachers and policymakers need to be aware of the different ways that students are using AI, and they should develop strategies to support students' use of AI in a positive and productive way.

Teachers can do this by:

• * Educating students about the responsible use of AI
• * Integrating AI tools into their teaching and learning activities
• * Using AI tools to assess student learning and provide feedback
• * Developing assignments that require students to think critically about AI

Policymakers can do this by:

• * Investing in research on the educational use of AI
• * Developing policies and guidelines that support the responsible use of AI in schools
• * Providing training and support for teachers on how to use AI effectively in their classrooms

By working together, teachers and policymakers can help students to use AI to learn and grow in the digital age.

The findings of these surveys suggest that teachers and policymakers need to be aware of the different ways that students are using AI, and they should develop strategies to support students' use of AI in a positive and productive way.

Teachers can do this by:

• Educating students about the responsible use of AI
• Integrating AI tools into their teaching and learning activities
• Using AI tools to assess student learning and provide feedback
• Developing assignments that require students to think critically about AI
• Policymakers can do this by:
• Investing in research on the educational use of AI
• Developing policies and guidelines that support the responsible use of AI in schools
• Providing training and support for teachers on how to use AI effectively in their classrooms

By working together, teachers and policymakers can help students to use AI to learn and grow in the digital age.

FROM BING AI

How Students Use AI vs. How Teachers Think They Use It

• - AI is a broad term that refers to the use of computer systems to perform tasks that normally require human intelligence, such as understanding language, recognizing images, learning from data, and making decisions¹.
• - AI can transform education for students and teachers in various ways, such as providing personalized feedback, adaptive learning, automated grading, and interactive simulations².
• - However, AI also poses some challenges and risks, such as ethical issues, privacy concerns, bias and discrimination, and the need for digital literacy and critical thinking³.
• - According to a survey by the UK's National Foundation for Educational Research (NFER), more than half of the secondary-level teachers (52%) said they believed AI would change the teaching profession for the better⁴. Among the perceived benefits were using AI to teach students how to interact with and understand AI models (60%), teaching critical thinking (56%), and as a tool to edit students' work (52%)⁴.
• - On the other hand, some teachers and students have expressed skepticism or caution about the use of AI in the classroom, especially when it comes to ChatGPT, an online text generator that uses deep learning to produce realistic texts based on a given prompt⁵. Some of the concerns were about the quality and accuracy of the generated texts, the potential for plagiarism and cheating, and the lack of human interaction and creativity⁵.

Bing, 10/1/2023

• (1) How Teachers Are Using Artificial Intelligence in Classes Today. https://www.edweek.org/technology/opinion-how-teachers-are-using-artificial-intelligence-in-classes-today/2023/05.
• (2) How AI can transform education for students and teachers | World .... https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2023/05/ai-accelerate-students-holistic-development-teaching-fulfilling.
• (3) Considerations for Using AI in the Classroom. https://idc.ls.wisc.edu/guides/using-artificial-intelligence-in-the-classroom/.
• (4) Half Of Teachers Believe AI Will Change Education For The Better - Forbes. https://www.forbes.com/sites/nickmorrison/2023/05/31/half-of-teachers-believe-ai-will-change-education-for-the-better/.
• (5) ChatGPT in the classroom: Here's what teachers and students are saying. https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/education/2023/03/01/what-teachers-students-saying-ai-chatgpt-use-classrooms/11340040002/.

ULTRA MAGA VS MEGA MAGA VS SANITY: THE HILARIOUS BATTLE OVER THE CARCASS OF THE REPUBLICAN PARTY

ULTRA MAGA VS MEGA MAGA VS SANITY: THE HILARIOUS BATTLE OVER THE CARCASS OF THE REPUBLICAN PARTY

In the wild and wacky world of American politics, where elephants and donkeys roam free, a new battle is brewing within the Republican Party. It's a clash of epic proportions, pitting the Ultra MAGA wing against the Mega MAGA wing, with Sanity Sanity coming in a distant third. And leading the charge for the Ultra MAGA wing is none other than the flamboyant and always entertaining Congressman Matt Gaetz of Florida.

Gaetz, known for his sharp wit and even sharper fashion sense, recently announced his plans to file a motion to remove House Speaker Kevin McCarthy from his position. When asked about his intentions, Gaetz simply replied, "Because why not? It'll be fun." And fun it shall be, as Gaetz is never one to shy away from a good old-fashioned political showdown.

But what exactly is Gaetz's gripe with McCarthy? Well, according to the congressman, McCarthy just isn't being hateful enough to satisfy the Ultra MAGA wing of the party. Gaetz believes that McCarthy's support for infrastructure and debt ceiling bills is a betrayal of conservative principles. In Gaetz's world, it's all about building walls, not bridges.

Now, you might be wondering what the difference is between Ultra MAGA and Mega MAGA. Well, it's quite simple really. Ultra MAGA is like regular MAGA, but with extra cheese. It's for those who believe that former President Trump was sent from the heavens to save America and that anyone who disagrees is a deep state lizard person. Mega MAGA, on the other hand, is for those who think regular MAGA is just too mainstream. They want to take things to the next level, with even more conspiracy theories and even louder chants of "Lock her up!"

But amidst all this chaos and political theater, there's a voice of reason trying to be heard. Yes, Sanity Sanity is coming in third in this wild race. It's a voice that believes in compromise and working across party lines. It's a voice that says, "Hey guys, maybe we should focus on actually governing instead of throwing temper tantrums." Unfortunately, Sanity Sanity's message often gets drowned out by the cacophony of MAGA madness.

And speaking of madness, let's not forget about House Speaker Nancy Pelosi. When asked about Gaetz's plan to oust McCarthy, Pelosi simply smirked and told her fellow Democrats to "follow the leader." She then suggested that Gaetz might be jealous of McCarthy's position, hinting at some sort of political rivalry between the two. Oh, Nancy, always one to stir the pot and add some spice to an already entertaining spectacle.

But McCarthy himself isn't one to back down from a fight. In response to Gaetz's efforts, he defiantly declared, "Bring it on, bitches!" McCarthy knows that he has the support of many within his party and that Gaetz's motion is unlikely to succeed. But hey, who doesn't love a good ol' political showdown?

So, as the battle for the soul of the Republican Party rages on, one thing is clear: it's going to be one hell of a ride. With Gaetz leading the charge for the Ultra MAGA wing, McCarthy standing his ground, and Sanity Sanity desperately trying to be heard above the noise, there's never a dull moment in American politics.

Will Gaetz succeed in his mission to remove McCarthy from his position? Will Sanity Sanity ever get its moment in the spotlight? And most importantly, will we ever find out who the deep state lizard people really are? Only time will tell. But one thing's for sure: it's going to be hilarious. So grab some popcorn, sit back, and enjoy the show.

Matt Gaetz says he plans vote to oust Speaker Kevin McCarthy after temporary funding bill - ABC News https://abcnews.go.com/Politics/matt-gaetz-plans-vote-oust-speaker-kevin-mccarthy/story?id=103629132 

Pelosi reacts to Gaetz's plan to oust McCarthy | CNN Politics https://www.cnn.com/videos/politics/2023/10/01/nancy-pelosi-house-speaker-mccarthy-future-sotu-jake-tapper-vpx.cnn 

Matt Gaetz says he wants to oust Kevin McCarthy as House speaker - The Washington Post https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/2023/10/01/kevin-mccarthy-matt-gaetz-house-speaker/

Matt Gaetz says he will attempt to boot McCarthy from speakership https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/politics/2023/10/01/kevin-mccarthy-motion-vacate-matt-gaetz/71001526007/ 

Matt Gaetz says he will attempt to oust Kevin McCarthy from the speakership this week | CNN Politics https://www.cnn.com/2023/10/01/politics/house-republicans-infighting-matt-gaetz-kevin-mccarthy-shutdown/index.html 

US DEPT. OF EDUCATION SENDS MISSOURI CHARTER SCHOOL CHAIN A 36 MILLION STARTUP MONEY BOMB

US DEPT. OF EDUCATION SENDS MISSOURI CHARTER SCHOOL CHAIN A 36 MILLION STARTUP MONEY BOMB

In a move that has left Missouri public schools reeling, the Biden Department of Education has sent a charter school startup money bomb to the Opportunity Trust education reform group in St. Louis. With $35.6 million in federal grant money, the Opportunity Trust plans to open 16 charter schools over the next five years, serving an additional 5,000 students.

While some may see this as a positive step towards improving education in Missouri, others are concerned that the proliferation of charter schools will only hasten the destruction of the state's public school system. But let's be real, who needs public schools when you can have charter schools, right?

Charter schools are publicly funded but operate independently of school districts, which means they get all the benefits of public funding without any pesky oversight. And who doesn't love a good loophole?

The Opportunity Trust is a nonprofit intermediary that is committed to bringing about transformative, system-level change in education in St. Louis. But let's be honest, with $35.6 million in federal grant money, they could probably bring about transformative, system-level change in just about anything. Can we get some of that money for a nonprofit intermediary dedicated to bringing about transformative, system-level change in our Netflix binges?

But back to the charter schools. The Department of Education awards Charter Schools Program (CSP) grants to help open new charter schools or replicate and expand high-quality charter schools. And let's be real, what's more high-quality than a school that operates with minimal oversight and accountability?

The CSP has provided more than $6 billion to charters since its inception 27 years ago. That's a lot of money for schools that are supposed to be operating independently of school districts. But hey, who needs accountability when you have federal funding?

During Biden's term, the U.S. Department of Education has requested and received $440 million from Congress for the CSP grant every fiscal year. That's a lot of money for schools that are supposed to be independent. It's almost like they're not really independent at all.

But don't worry, the government has done its due diligence. GAO's analysis found that charter schools that received CSP awards closed at lower rates than similar charter schools that did not receive an award between fiscal years 2006 and 2020. So, if you're worried about your charter school closing down, just make sure you get a CSP award.

However, about 14 percent of charter schools that received CSP State awards closed or never opened between fiscal years 2006 and 2020. But hey, that's just 638 schools that received about $152 million (8 percent) of the approximately $2 billion provided in CSP State awards during that period. That's not so bad, right?

In all seriousness, the proliferation of charter schools is a serious issue that deserves more scrutiny. While some charter schools may be successful, many have failed due to academic or financial issues. And let's not forget that charter schools siphon off resources from public schools, which are already struggling to provide quality education to students.

So, while the Opportunity Trust may be committed to bringing about transformative, system-level change in education in St. Louis, let's hope they're also committed to ensuring that all students have access to quality education, regardless of whether they attend a charter school or a public school. Because at the end of the day, education is too important to be left to chance. Or to federal funding loopholes.

St. Louis charter group wins $35 million grant to open new schools across Missouri https://www.stltoday.com/news/local/education/st-louis-charter-group-wins-35-million-grant-to-open-new-schools-across-missouri/article_ad4a5cd4-5f05-11ee-b15b-77f7121a9a94.html 

Our Investors - The Opportunity Trust https://theopportunitytrust.org/our-investors/ 

THE DEFT DIVE

The federal funding for charter schools by the year, based on the web search results I found.

• - Charter schools are publicly funded, semi-autonomous schools of choice that are governed by independent organizations².
• - The Department of Education awards Charter Schools Program (CSP) grants to help open new charter schools or replicate and expand high-quality charter schools, among other things².
• - The CSP has provided more than $6 billion to charters since its inception 27 years ago⁴.
• - The CSP has several grant programs, such as the State Educational Agencies/State Entities (CSP State) program, which is the largest one¹².
• - The CSP State program provides funds to states to award subgrants to eligible applicants to open and prepare for the operation of new charter schools, replicate high-quality charter schools, or expand high-quality charter schools¹.
• - The table below shows the funding for new awards and continuation awards for the CSP State program from fiscal year 2017 to fiscal year 2022³.

| Fiscal Year     | Funding for New Awards | Funding for Continuation Awards |

| FY 2022         | $60,202,659                     | $154,894,184 |

| FY 2021         | $0                                     | $220,842,582 |

| FY 2020         | $81,696,397                     | $132,251,030 |

| FY 2019         | $25,840,123                     | $190,756,628 |

| FY 2018         | $77,790,768                     | $120,005,992 |

| FY 2017         | $144,680,792                     | $17,864,270 |

• - During Biden's term, the U.S. Department of Education has requested and received $440 million from Congress for the CSP grant every fiscal year⁵. That request is in line with the expanded federal funding under former President Donald Trump, which steadily increased from $342 million in 2017 to $440 million by 2020⁵.
• - GAO's analysis found that charter schools that received CSP awards closed at lower rates than similar charter schools that did not receive an award between fiscal years 2006 and 2020². For example, within five years after receiving CSP awards, CSP-recipient charters schools were about 1.5 times less likely to close than similar non-CSP charter schools—with an estimated 1.4 percent and 2.3 percent closing, respectively².
• - However, about 14 percent of charter schools (638 schools) that received CSP State awards closed or never opened between fiscal years 2006 and 2020². These 638 schools received about $152 million (8 percent) of the approximately $2 billion provided in CSP State awards during that period².

Bing, 9/30/2023

• (1) K-12 Education: Charter Schools That Received Federal Funding to Open .... https://www.gao.gov/products/gao-23-105616.
• (2) Explained: What Is the Federal Charter Schools Program? - Ed Post. https://www.edpost.com/explainer/explained-what-is-the-federal-charter-schools-program.
• (3) Charter School Programs - Office of Elementary and Secondary Education. https://oese.ed.gov/offices/office-of-discretionary-grants-support-services/charter-school-programs/.
• (4) Funding and Legislation - Office of Elementary and Secondary Education. https://oese.ed.gov/offices/office-of-discretionary-grants-support-services/charter-school-programs/state-entities/funding-and-legislation/.
• (5) Charter school funding remains steady for second year under Biden. https://www.k12dive.com/news/charter-school-funding-flat-under-Biden-FY-23/640509/.
• (6) undefined. https://charterschoolcenter.ed.gov/.
• (7) undefined. https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/su/MZm4W2G/charterconnection.
• (8) undefined. https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/USED/subscriber/new.

JUSTICE FOR TUPAC: DUANE 'KEFFE D' DAVIS HAS BEEN INDICTED FOR THE MURDER OF TUPAC SHAKUR

JUSTICE FOR TUPAC: DUANE 'KEFFE D' DAVIS HAS BEEN INDICTED FOR THE MURDER OF TUPAC SHAKUR

The world of hip-hop has been rocked by the recent news that Duane "Keffe D" Davis, a former gang leader, has been indicted for the murder of Tupac Shakur. The 1996 drive-by shooting of the rapper has remained one of the most enduring mysteries in music history, with countless theories and speculations surrounding the identity and motive of the shooter. But now, it seems that justice may finally be served.

Davis was arrested while out on a walk near his home in Henderson, a Las Vegas suburb, and charged with one count of murder with a deadly weapon in affiliation with a criminal gang. He is alleged to have been the "on-ground, on-site commander" who "ordered the death" of Shakur "for the purpose of seeking retribution". The arrest comes two months after police raided the home of Davis's wife, Paula Clemons, looking for items "concerning the murder of Tupac Shakur".

For those who may not be familiar with the case, Tupac Shakur was a famous rapper and actor who was shot four times in a drive-by shooting on September 7, 1996, in Las Vegas, Nevada. He died six days later at the age of 25. The shooting occurred after Shakur and his entourage, including Death Row Records CEO Marion "Suge" Knight, attended a Mike Tyson boxing match at the MGM Grand hotel. A fight broke out between Shakur's associates and Orlando "Baby Lane" Anderson, a member of the rival Southside Crips gang, in the lobby of the hotel.

Shakur and Knight left the hotel in a black BMW sedan and stopped at a red light on Flamingo Road near Koval Lane. A white Cadillac pulled up next to them and opened fire, hitting Shakur four times and grazing Knight in the head. The Cadillac then sped away and was never found. The case remained unsolved for decades, despite numerous theories and speculations about the identity and motive of the shooter.

But now, it seems that we may finally have some answers. Davis's confession, which was part of a cooperation agreement with federal authorities who were investigating him for drug trafficking charges, sheds new light on the case. He claimed that he was in the white Cadillac with Anderson and two other men on the night of the shooting. He said that Anderson was the one who shot Shakur from the back seat of the car, and that he did it as retaliation for the earlier fight at the MGM Grand.

Davis also said that he was offered $1 million by Sean "Puffy" Combs, the founder of Bad Boy Records and rival of Death Row Records, to kill Shakur and Knight. Combs denied any involvement in the shooting and called Davis's allegations "pure fiction". Davis's confession was granted immunity from prosecution for the shooting in exchange for his testimony.

However, in 2023, a grand jury in Las Vegas indicted Davis on one count of murder with a deadly weapon for his role in Shakur's killing. The indictment was based on new evidence obtained by the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department (LVMPD), including phone records, witness statements, DNA analysis, and ballistic tests. The indictment also stated that Davis had violated his immunity agreement by lying to federal agents about his involvement in the shooting and withholding information about his co-conspirators.

Davis's arrest marks a major breakthrough in one of hip-hop's most enduring mysteries and brings hope for justice for Shakur's family, fans, and legacy. If convicted, Davis faces life imprisonment or the death penalty. His trial is scheduled to begin in January 2024. Davis is the last living suspect in Shakur's murder, as Anderson, Smith, and Brown have all died from various causes over the years.

The news of Davis's indictment has sent shockwaves through the music industry and beyond. Many are wondering what this means for other unsolved cases in hip-hop history, such as the murder of The Notorious B.I.G. But for now, we can only hope that justice will be served for Tupac Shakur and his loved ones. As for Davis, only time will tell what his fate will be. But one thing is for sure - this case is far from over.

One of last living witnesses and ex-gang leader indicted in Tupac Shakur murder | Tupac Shakur | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/music/2023/sep/29/tupac-shakur-shooting-arrest-las-vegas?

Who is Duane "Keffe D" Davis? What to know about the man indicted in Tupac Shakur's murder - CBS News https://www.cbsnews.com/news/keffe-d-duane-davis-what-to-know-indicted-murder-tupac-shakur/ 

Tupac Shakur: Las Vegas police arrested man tied to shooting | AP News https://apnews.com/article/tupac-shakur-killing-duane-keefe-davis-vegas-3f7050c2a68813d86a96b96fbb3f1d1a 

Duane Davis indicted for murder in fatal drive-by shooting of Tupac: Official - ABC News https://abcnews.go.com/US/suspect-arrested-tupac-murder/story?id=103603653 

Duane 'Keffe D' Davis: Man charged in Tupac Shakur's 1996 shooting death has long put himself at the crime scene. Here's what we know about him | CNN https://www.cnn.com/2023/09/30/us/tupac-shakur-killing-suspect-arrested-what-we-know/index.html 

SUPREME COURT JUSTICES CLARENCE THOMAS AND SAMUEL ALITO ARE POSTER BOYS FOR CITIZENS UNITED CORRUPTION

SUPREME COURT JUSTICES CLARENCE THOMAS AND SAMUEL ALITO ARE POSTER BOYS FOR CITIZENS UNITED CORRUPTION

In a world where money talks and politicians listen, it's no surprise that billionaires have become the new kings of American politics. From Sheldon Adelson to George Soros, these wealthy individuals have the power to sway elections and shape policy with their vast fortunes. But who are the real winners in this game of political chess? The answer might surprise you.

First, let's take a look at the poster boys for Citizens United corruption: Supreme Court Justices Clarence Thomas and Samuel Alito. These two conservative justices have been linked to billionaire donors with business before the court, leading over 40 watchdog groups to call for their recusal in cases where conflicts of interest arise. But do they care? Of course not. They deny wrongdoing and reject any calls for them to step down. It's good to be king.

And speaking of kings, let's talk about the 800 to 1000 billionaires who are bidding up elections to suit their personal political views. Thanks to Citizens United, the one who raises the most money wins elections at every level of American government, down to the local election of a dog catcher. It's like a twisted game show where the prize is control over the country. And the losers? Well, that would be all of us.

But don't take our word for it. Check out OpenSecrets, a website dedicated to exposing Citizens United corruption. You'll see a list of the most active billionaires supporting politicians in 2023, based on their political contributions during the 2022 midterm elections. It reads like a who's who of the ultra-wealthy, with Sheldon and Miriam Adelson leading the pack at $308.4 million. And that's just the right-wing donors.

The left-wing donors are no slouches either, with George Soros contributing $128.1 million to political causes in 2022. But it's not just about the money they spend. It's about the influence they wield. In fact, in the 2022 midterm elections, the top 20 billionaire donors spent more money than the entire Democratic National Committee. It's enough to make you wonder who's really running the show.

Of course, some people argue that billionaires are simply expressing their views and that voters are ultimately free to choose who they want to represent them. But when you consider how much money these individuals are pouring into politics, it's hard not to feel like we're all just pawns in their game.

The impact of Citizens United goes beyond just billionaires and their pocketbooks. It has also increased the influence of money in politics, undermined public trust in government, made it more difficult for ordinary citizens to compete for office, given rise to dark money, and increased polarization. But hey, at least we can all agree on one thing: it's a great time to be a billionaire.

So what can we do about it? Well, we could start by calling on Chief Justice John Roberts to force Justices Thomas and Alito to recuse themselves from cases where conflicts of interest arise. We could also push for campaign finance reform that limits the amount of money that can be spent on elections and requires more transparency in political donations.

But let's be real here. The chances of any meaningful change happening in our current political climate are about as likely as a unicorn winning the Kentucky Derby. So instead, let's just sit back and enjoy the show. After all, it's not every day you get to watch billionaires duke it out for control of the country. Who needs reality TV when you've got American politics?

Chief justice urged to make Alito and Thomas step aside in megadonor cases | US supreme court | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/law/2023/sep/29/us-supreme-court-john-roberts-ethics-scandal-recuse-thomas-alito-donor-cases 

Citizens United Endangers Democracy

Does “Dark Money” Endanger Democracy? A New Doc on Citizens United Impact https://youtu.be/woGe_g54nqU?si=zq_vDYjBgNttClQ7 via @YouTube 

The Scheme: Sheldon's Court Capture Speeches https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLhyg5hj7I21i1Aqcaym9TRFrpWjPN9_ms&si=Jt8Ac0afMJA_k9ia via @YouTube 

THE SCHEME 19: “OPERATION HIGHER COURT” AND THE SUPREME COURT ETHICS CRISIS https://www.whitehouse.senate.gov/news/videos/watch/the-scheme-19-operation-higher-court-and-the-supreme-court-ethics-crisis 

Top PACs • OpenSecrets https://www.opensecrets.org/political-action-committees-pacs/top-pacs/2022 

Just 27 Billionaires Have Spent $90 Million to Buy GOP Congress: Report https://www.commondreams.org/news/2022/07/18/just-27-billionaires-have-spent-90-million-buy-gop-congress-report 

U.S. Billionaires by the Numbers, tracking billionaires' political influence https://americansfortaxfairness.org/billionaire-politics/ 

American billionaires spent a record $880 million on the U.S. midterm elections https://www.cnbc.com/2022/11/03/american-billionaires-spent-a-record-880-million-on-the-us-midterm-elections-.html 

THE DEFT DIVE

FROM BARD AI

**Most active billionaires supporting politicians in 2023**

The following is a list of the most active billionaires supporting politicians in 2023, based on their political contributions during the 2022 midterm elections:

**Billionaires supporting right-wing causes:**

• * **Sheldon and Miriam Adelson:** $308.4 million
• * **Richard Uihlein:** $67 million
• * **Ken Griffin:** $66.5 million
• * **Stephen Schwarzman:** $47.4 million
• * **Patrick Ryan:** $40.6 million

**Billionaires supporting left-wing causes:**

• * **George Soros:** $128.1 million
• * **Sam Bankman-Fried:** $36.5 million
• * **Michael Bloomberg:** $25.6 million
• * **Tom Steyer:** $25 million
• * **Kathryn Taylor:** $25 million

It is important to note that these are just the top donors, and there are many other billionaires who support politicians and causes both on the right and the left.

**How much do these billionaires spend annually?**

The amount of money that these billionaires spend annually on political contributions varies from year to year, depending on the election cycle. However, in recent years, they have spent hundreds of millions of dollars each year. For example, in the 2022 midterm elections, the top 20 billionaire donors spent a combined $880 million.

**Which billionaires support right-wing causes?**

The following billionaires are known to support right-wing causes:

• * Sheldon and Miriam Adelson
• * Richard Uihlein
• * Ken Griffin
• * Stephen Schwarzman
• * Patrick Ryan
• * Charles Koch
• * David Koch
• * Peter Thiel
• * Robert Mercer
• * Betsy DeVos
• * Paul Singer

**Which billionaires support left-wing causes?**

The following billionaires are known to support left-wing causes:

• * George Soros
• * Sam Bankman-Fried
• * Michael Bloomberg
• * Tom Steyer
• * Kathryn Taylor
• * Laurene Powell Jobs
• * Steven Spielberg
• * Barbra Streisand
• * Reid Hoffman
• * Chris Hughes
• * Pierre Omidyar

It is important to note that not all of these billionaires support all of the same causes. For example, George Soros is a strong supporter of environmental causes, while Michael Bloomberg is a supporter of gun control.

## Deep dive

The influence of billionaires on politics is a complex and controversial issue. Some people argue that billionaires have too much influence over politicians, and that their money can give them an unfair advantage in elections. Others argue that billionaires are simply exercising their right to free speech and political participation.

There is no doubt that billionaires have a significant impact on American politics. In the 2022 midterm elections, the top 20 billionaire donors spent more money than the entire Democratic National Committee. This gives them a great deal of influence over which politicians are elected and what policies are enacted.

Some people worry that the influence of billionaires is undermining democracy. They argue that billionaires are able to buy elections and advance their own interests at the expense of the public good. Others argue that billionaires are simply expressing their views and that the voters are ultimately free to choose who they want to represent them.

The debate over the influence of billionaires on politics is likely to continue for many years to come. It is an important issue to consider, as it raises questions about the role of money in democracy and the equality of representation in our government.

**Most active foundations and PACs supporting politicians in 2023**

The following is a list of the most active foundations and PACs supporting politicians in 2023, based on their political spending during the 2022 midterm elections:

**Foundations supporting right-wing causes:**

• * **Leonard Leo Institute:** $195 million
• * **American Action Network:** $123 million
• * **Club for Growth:** $115 million
• * **Freedom Partners:** $92 million
• * **Judicial Crisis Network:** $76 million

**Foundations supporting left-wing causes:**

• * **Sixteen Thirty Fund:** $410 million
• * **Demand Justice:** $30 million
• * **Future Forward USA:** $25 million
• * **Open Policy Center:** $20 million
• * **Sixteenth Street PAC:** $15 million

It is important to note that these are just the top donors, and there are many other foundations and PACs that support politicians and causes both on the right and the left.

**How much do these foundations and PACs spend annually?**

The amount of money that these foundations and PACs spend annually on political contributions varies from year to year, depending on the election cycle. However, in recent years, they have spent hundreds of millions of dollars each year. For example, in the 2022 midterm elections, the top 20 foundations and PACs spent a combined $1.8 billion.

**Which foundations and PACs support right-wing causes?**

The following foundations and PACs are known to support right-wing causes:

• * Leonard Leo Institute
• * American Action Network
• * Club for Growth
• * Freedom Partners
• * Judicial Crisis Network
• * Americans for Prosperity
• * Koch Industries
• * Heritage Foundation
• * Cato Institute
• * Family Research Council
• * Susan B. Anthony List

**Which foundations and PACs support left-wing causes?**

The following foundations and PACs are known to support left-wing causes:

• * Sixteen Thirty Fund
• * Demand Justice
• * Future Forward USA
• * Open Policy Center
• * Sixteen Street PAC
• * Center for American Progress
• * Sierra Club
• * League of Conservation Voters
• * NARAL Pro-Choice America
• * Planned Parenthood Action Fund
• * Emily's List

It is important to note that not all of these foundations and PACs support all of the same causes. For example, the Sixteen Thirty Fund supports a wide range of progressive causes, while Demand Justice is focused on judicial reform.

## Deep dive

The influence of foundations and PACs on politics is a complex and controversial issue. Some people argue that foundations and PACs have too much influence over politicians, and that their money can give them an unfair advantage in elections. Others argue that foundations and PACs are simply exercising their right to free speech and political participation.

There is no doubt that foundations and PACs have a significant impact on American politics. In the 2022 midterm elections, the top 20 foundations and PACs spent more money than the entire Democratic National Committee. This gives them a great deal of influence over which politicians are elected and what policies are enacted.

Some people worry that the influence of foundations and PACs is undermining democracy. They argue that foundations and PACs are able to buy elections and advance their own interests at the expense of the public good. Others argue that foundations and PACs are simply expressing their views and that the voters are ultimately free to choose who they want to represent them.

The debate over the influence of foundations and PACs on politics is likely to continue for many years to come. It is an important issue to consider, as it raises questions about the role of money in democracy and the equality of representation in our government.

## Additional information

In addition to the foundations and PACs listed above, there are many other organizations that support politicians and causes both on the right and the left. Some of these organizations are well-known, such as the National Rifle Association (NRA) and the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU). Others are less well-known, but they can still have a significant impact on elections and policy outcomes.

It is also important to note that the influence of foundations and PACs can extend beyond the direct contributions that they make to politicians. For example, some foundations and PACs fund research and advocacy organizations that work to promote their causes. Others fund voter registration and get-out-the-vote efforts.

The influence of foundations and PACs on politics is a complex and controversial issue. There is no doubt that they have a significant impact on elections and policy outcomes. However, it is important to remember that they are just one of many factors that influence the political process.

The Citizens United ruling has had a number of negative effects on democracy, including:

• * **Increased the influence of money in politics:** The Citizens United ruling allowed corporations and unions to spend unlimited amounts of money on independent expenditures, which are communications that are not coordinated with a candidate's campaign. This has led to a dramatic increase in the amount of money spent on elections, and has given wealthy donors and special interest groups a greater say in who gets elected and what policies are enacted.
• * **Undermined public trust in government:** The Citizens United ruling has eroded public trust in government by creating the perception that the system is rigged in favor of the wealthy and powerful. This has led to voter cynicism and apathy, and has made it more difficult for elected officials to represent the interests of all of their constituents.
• * **Made it more difficult for ordinary citizens to compete for office:** The increased role of money in politics has made it more difficult for ordinary citizens to compete for office. Candidates who are not able to raise large sums of money are often at a disadvantage, and may be forced to make compromises with special interests in order to win elections.
• * **Given rise to dark money:** The Citizens United ruling has also led to a rise in dark money, which is spending by groups that are not required to disclose their donors. This makes it difficult to know who is trying to influence elections, and can make it easier for special interests to operate in the shadows.
• * **Increased polarization:** The Citizens United ruling has contributed to the increasing polarization of American politics. This is because special interest groups are often able to use their money to support candidates and causes that are aligned with their own narrow interests, even if those interests are not in the best interests of the country as a whole.

The Citizens United ruling has had a profound impact on American democracy. It has made it easier for wealthy donors and special interests to influence elections and policy outcomes, and has eroded public trust in government. The ruling has also made it more difficult for ordinary citizens to compete for office and has contributed to the increasing polarization of American politics.

In addition to the negative effects listed above, the Citizens United ruling has also been criticized for:

• * **Allowing corporations to influence elections as if they were people:** Corporations are not real people, and they should not have the same rights as people when it comes to political participation. The Citizens United ruling gives corporations the ability to influence elections with unlimited amounts of money, which gives them a significant advantage over ordinary citizens.
• * **Opening the door to foreign interference in elections:** The Citizens United ruling also makes it easier for foreign governments and individuals to influence American elections by funding independent expenditures. This is a serious threat to our democracy, as it could allow foreign actors to interfere in our elections and subvert the will of the American people.

The Citizens United ruling has been a major setback for democracy in the United States. It is important to work to overturn this ruling and to reform our campaign finance system to ensure that all Americans have an equal voice in our democracy.

FROM BING AI

Political spending of billionaires in the US. Here are some facts based on the web search results:

• - According to a report by Americans for Tax Fairness, just 27 billionaires have spent $90 million to buy GOP Congress in the 2022 midterm elections². The top donor so far is **Ken Griffin**, who has given more than $28.5 million to the Congressional Leadership Fund and the Senate Leadership Fund, two super PACs that support Republican candidates².
• - The same report also found that 19 billionaires have contributed $25.8 million to the House Majority PAC and the Senate Majority PAC, two super PACs that support Democratic candidates². The top donor so far is **George Soros**, who has contributed over $128 million to the midterms⁴.
• - A majority of billionaire contributions to both parties came from the finance and investment sector, which benefits from tax loopholes and low rates². Other industries that were well-represented include cryptocurrency, tech, media, and real estate².
• - Some of the most politically influential billionaires in the US are **Charles and David Koch**, who have funded conservative and libertarian causes and groups, such as Americans for Prosperity, the Cato Institute, and the Heritage Foundation⁵; **Michael Bloomberg**, who has supported gun control, climate change, and public health initiatives, as well as his own presidential campaign in 2020⁵; **Tom Steyer**, who has advocated for environmental and social justice issues, such as NextGen America and Need to Impeach⁵; **Sheldon Adelson**, who has backed pro-Israel and hawkish foreign policy agendas, as well as Republican candidates like Donald Trump and Mitt Romney⁵; and **Rupert Murdoch**, who owns media outlets like Fox News, The Wall Street Journal, and The New York Post, which have shaped public opinion and political discourse⁵.

Bing, 9/29/2023

• (1) Just 27 Billionaires Have Spent $90 Million to Buy GOP Congress: Report. https://www.commondreams.org/news/2022/07/18/just-27-billionaires-have-spent-90-million-buy-gop-congress-report.
• (2) American billionaires spent a record $880 million on the U.S ... - CNBC. https://www.cnbc.com/2022/11/03/american-billionaires-spent-a-record-880-million-on-the-us-midterm-elections-.html.
• (3) Here Are the Most Politically Influential Billionaires in U.S. - NBC News. https://www.nbcnews.com/business/economy/here-are-most-politically-influential-billionaires-u-s-n240926.
• (4) Meet the 25 wealthiest members of Congress - Business Insider. https://www.businessinsider.com/wealthiest-members-congress-house-senate-finances-2021-12.
• (5) U.S. Billionaires by the Numbers, tracking billionaires' political .... https://americansfortaxfairness.org/billionaire-politics/.

Information about the political spending of foundations and PACs in the US. Here are some facts based on the web search results:

• - A PAC, or political action committee, is a group that collects and spends money to influence elections or legislation¹. There are different types of PACs, such as leadership PACs, super PACs, and foreign-connected PACs¹.
• - Leadership PACs are established by current or former members of Congress or other prominent political figures to support candidates who share their views or goals². Some examples of leadership PACs with serious financial pull include Majority Cmte PAC, which supports Republican candidates; Eye of the Tiger PAC, which supports conservative candidates; Democracy PAC, which supports progressive candidates; and EMILY's List, which supports left-leaning, female, pro-choice candidates²³.
• - Super PACs are independent expenditure-only committees that can raise and spend unlimited amounts of money from individuals, corporations, unions, and other groups to advocate for or against candidates or issues¹. Some examples of super PACs with significant spending in the 2020 election cycle include Senate Majority PAC and House Majority PAC, which support Democratic candidates; Senate Leadership Fund and Congressional Leadership Fund, which support Republican candidates; Club for Growth, which supports conservative and libertarian candidates; and American Bridge 21st Century, which supports progressive and liberal candidates².
• - Foreign-connected PACs are committees that have foreign nationals as officers or donors, or are affiliated with foreign-owned corporations¹. They can only accept contributions from US citizens or permanent residents, and can only make contributions to federal candidates or parties¹. Some examples of foreign-connected PACs include American Israel Public Affairs Cmte, which supports pro-Israel causes and candidates; Americans for Prosperity, which supports free-market and limited-government causes and candidates; and League of Conservation Voters, which supports environmental causes and candidates².
• - According to OpenSecrets.org, the top 20 PACs by total raised in the 2021-2022 cycle so far are ActBlue ($2.23 billion), WinRed ($1.18 billion), Senate Majority PAC ($398 million), Senate Leadership Fund ($290 million), Congressional Leadership Fund ($261 million), House Majority PAC ($182 million), Democracy PAC ($181 million), Club for Growth ($109 million), Save America ($109 million), EMILY's List ($102 million), Service Employees International Union ($91 million), Progressive Turnout Project ($84 million), Americans for Prosperity ($79 million), Make America Great Again Inc ($73 million), PIC 2021 Inc ($62 million), Moveon.org ($60 million), League of Conservation Voters ($60 million), American Israel Public Affairs Cmte ($55 million), American Bridge 21st Century ($52 million), and National Assn of Realtors ($46 million)².
• - The top 20 PACs by total spent in the 2021-2022 cycle so far are ActBlue ($2.24 billion), WinRed ($1.18 billion), Senate Majority PAC ($388 million), Senate Leadership Fund ($291 million), Congressional Leadership Fund ($260 million), House Majority PAC ($182 million), Save America ($122 million), Club for Growth ($119 million), EMILY's List ($103 million), Progressive Turnout Project ($81 million), Service Employees International Union ($80 million), Democracy PAC ($77 million), Senate Conservatives Fund ($76 million), Make America Great Again Inc ($73 million), PIC 2021 Inc ($62 million), Moveon.org ($60 million), League of Conservation Voters ($60 million), American Israel Public Affairs Cmte ($55 million), American Bridge 21st Century ($52 million), and National Assn of Realtors ($46 million)².

Bing, 9/29/2023

• (1) Top PACs • OpenSecrets. https://www.opensecrets.org/political-action-committees-pacs/top-pacs/2020.
• (2) Top PACs • OpenSecrets. https://www.opensecrets.org/political-action-committees-pacs/top-pacs/2022.
• (3) What is a PAC? Political Action Committee types, explained. - USA TODAY. https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/politics/2022/10/20/political-action-committee-types-explained/10535070002/.
• (4) Top PACs • OpenSecrets. https://www.opensecrets.org/political-action-committees-pacs/top-pacs/2020.
• (5) Many lawmakers' 'leadership PACs' spend more on fundraising than .... https://abcnews.go.com/Politics/lawmakers-leadership-pacs-spend-fundraising-political-contributions-report/story?id=80316227.

Information about the negative effects of the Citizens United ruling on democracy. Here are some points based on the web search results:

• - The Citizens United ruling in 2010 allowed corporations and unions to spend unlimited amounts of money on political campaigns, as long as they do not coordinate with candidates or parties¹.
• - This ruling has led to the rise of super PACs, which are groups that can raise and spend unlimited money from any source, including wealthy individuals, corporations, and foreign entities¹².
• - Super PACs have increased the influence of big money in elections, creating a system where candidates are more accountable to their donors than to their voters²³.
• - Super PACs have also contributed to the polarization and gridlock in politics, as they tend to support extreme candidates and agendas that appeal to their ideological base²³.
• - The Citizens United ruling has also enabled the use of dark money, which is money that is spent by groups that do not disclose their donors or sources¹. Dark money makes it harder for voters to know who is behind the political messages they see and hear, and how they might benefit from the policies they promote²³.
• - Dark money also undermines the transparency and accountability of the political system, as it allows special interests to secretly influence elections and legislation without facing public scrutiny or legal consequences²³.
• - The Citizens United ruling has eroded the trust and confidence of the American people in their democracy, as they feel that their voices are drowned out by the wealthy and powerful²³. A recent Pew Research Center poll shows that almost two-thirds of voters who have heard of Citizens United say it is having a negative effect on the 2020 presidential election; of those who have heard a lot about them 78% say the effects of the new campaign finance rules have been negative².

Bing, 9/29/2023

• (1) 10 Ways Citizens United Endangers Democracy | Demos. https://www.demos.org/policy-briefs/10-ways-citizens-united-endangers-democracy.
• (2) Four Years After Citizens United: the Good, the Bad, and the Ugly. https://www.brennancenter.org/our-work/analysis-opinion/four-years-after-citizens-united-good-bad-and-ugly.
• (3) The Consequences of 'Citizens United’ - Brennan Center for Justice. https://www.brennancenter.org/our-work/analysis-opinion/consequences-citizens-united.
• (4) 10 Ways Citizens United Endangers Democracy | Demos. https://www.demos.org/policy-briefs/10-ways-citizens-united-endangers-democracy.