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.

TOP BANANA: TOP READS THIS WEEK 9-30-23 #tbats #edchat #K12 #learning #edtech #StandUpUAW

 

TOP BANANA: TOP READS THIS WEEK 9-30-23

Big Education Ape: BULLYING 101: OKLA SPI RYAN RASPUTIN WALTERS USING PLAYGROUND TACTICS TO FURTHER HIS POLITICAL CAREER https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/09/bullying-101-okla-spi-ryan-rasputin.html

Big Education Ape: OKLA MAD MAGA MONK SAYS RED DOESN'T WORK FOR HIM IN OKLA PUBLIC SCHOOLS https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/09/okla-mad-maga-monk-says-red-doesnt-work.html

Big Education Ape: WHO IS PIMPING MAGA VOUCHERS AT THE KOCH NETWORK PLAYERS BALL https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/09/who-is-pimping-maga-vouchers-at-koch.html 

Big Education Ape: YOU CAN'T SWING A DEAD CAT WITHOUT HITTING A RIGHT WING KOCH NETWORK ASTROTURF FRONT GROUP https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/09/you-cant-swing-dead-cat-without-hitting.html 

Big Education Ape: IN A REALLY DIRTY MOVE MEATAXE MIKE MILES CUTS HISD CUSTODIAL STAFF https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/09/in-really-dirty-move-meataxe-mike-miles.html

Big Education Ape: FLORIDA'S NEW VOODOO EDUCATION LAWS TURNS ATTORNEYS INTO DODO BIRDS https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/09/floridas-new-voodoo-education-laws.html 

Big Education Ape: VAPING IN SCHOOLS: ARE THOSE KIDS ON FIRE OR JUST VAPING https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/09/vaping-in-schools-are-those-kids-on.html 

Big Education Ape: FLORIDA AND OKLAHOMA FLAT EARTHER REJOICE: POLITICIANS DEFUND CHINESE LANGUAGE AND CULTURE PROGRAMS https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/09/florida-and-oklahoma-flat-earther.html

Big Education Ape: TOP BANANA: TOP READS THIS WEEK 9-23-23 #tbats #edchat #K12 #learning #edtech #StandUpUAW https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/09/top-banana-top-reads-this-week-9-23-23.html

Big Education Ape: SCREAMING SCREEN TIME, KIDS AND THEIR PHONES https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/09/screaming-screen-time-kids-and-their.html 

OTHER GREAT READS THIS WEEK FROM THE BIG EDUCATION APE

Big Education Ape: GLORIA JOHNSON STANDING TALL FOR TENNESSEE https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/09/gloria-johnson-standing-tall-for.html

#StandUpUAW

YESTERDAY

TEXAS GOV GREG ABBOTT VOWS TO GIVE BIRTH TO AN ALL-NEW 2 TIER JIM CROW EDUCATION SYSTEM

by Mike Simpson / 20h

In a move that has left many scratching their heads, Texas Governor Greg Abbott has vowed to give birth to an all-new Jim Crow 2 tier education system. The plan involves replacing the current public education system with vouchers for private schools and more charter schools. Apparently, Abbott fears that Florida, Arkansas, and Oklahoma are going to destroy public schools before he can. So, he pl

ALGEBRA REALLY? A DEEP DIVE INTO THE IMPORTANCE OF ALGEBRA IN LEARNING

by Mike Simpson / 21h

Listen up, folks! It's time to talk about the most important subject in school: algebra. I know what you're thinking, "Ugh, math? No thanks." But hear me out, because algebra is not just any old math subject. It's the superhero of math subjects. It's the Batman to your Robin. The Wonder Woman to your Superman. The...well, you get the point. Now, I know some of you may be thinking, "But didn't th

EVERYONE WANT TO GIVE OKLA SSPI RYAN RASPUTIN WALTERS THE FINGER: YOU SHOULD TOO

Woman Lets Finger

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by Mike Simpson / 21h

In the latest episode of "As the Oklahoma Department of Education Turns," Superintendent Ryan Walters is once again making headlines for all the wrong reasons. This time, he's been caught on camera spouting off about "indoctrination" in schools and getting flipped off by a woman in the background. And frankly, we think everyone should follow her lead. It's no secret that Walters is a self-procla

SEP 28

VAPING IN SCHOOLS: ARE THOSE KIDS ON FIRE OR JUST VAPING

by Mike Simpson / 1d

Vaping in schools has become a hot topic lately, and not just because those kids look like they're on fire. More and more, the dangers of vaping for kids are being learned, and it's time to take action. First off, let's talk about the dangers. According to the CDC, vaping can expose users to harmful substances such as nicotine, heavy metals, volatile organic compounds, and ultrafine particles th

BIDEN CRACKS DOWN ON "TRUMP UNIVERSITY-LIKE" FOR PROFIT DIPLOMA MILL CAREER COLLEGE PROGRAMS

New rule debt

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by Mike Simpson / 1d

The Biden administration has finally taken a stand against the high-debt for-profit predatory college industry. And let's be honest, these schools are as bad as Trump University, which was sued, closed, and forced to pay restitution. It's like they brought the ethics of payday lending into public education. But fear not, my fellow Americans, because Biden is cracking down on these schools like a

SEP 27

BULLYING 101: OKLA SPI RYAN RASPUTIN WALTERS USING PLAYGROUND TACTICS TO FURTHER HIS POLITICAL CAREER

by Mike Simpson / 2d

In a bizarre turn of events, it seems that Okla Spi Ryan Rasputin Walters is at it again, harassing and bullying poor John Glenn Elementary School Principal Shane Murnan. Now, you might think that Walters is just a loudmouth MAGA hitman, but it turns out he's actually stirring up trouble to promote his own political aspirations. That's right, folks, he's hoping to replace Stitt as Governor and m

MAGA MOMS FOR TAKING LIBERTIES BLOWING UP CHARLESTON COUNTY SCHOOL BOARD

Charleston School Superintendent

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by Mike Simpson / 2d

In a shocking turn of events, the Charleston County School District (CCSD) superintendent, Dr. Eric Gallien, has been placed on paid administrative leave pending an investigation. The five trustees who voted for his suspension are all endorsed by Moms for Liberty, a right-wing group that opposes mask mandates, critical race theory, and LGBTQ+ rights in schools. It seems like these MAGA moms are

CAN YOU HEAR THE BANJO, TENNESSEE MAGA REJECTS $2 BILLION FEDERAL EDUCATION FUNDS

Tennessee considers rejecting federal educati

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by Mike Simpson / 2d

In a stunning move, Tennessee lawmakers are considering rejecting nearly $1.9 billion in federal education funding. The reason? Concerns over the restrictions and mandates that come with the money. Apparently, Tennessee MAGA thinks they can do better on their own. House Speaker Cameron Sexton and Lt. Gov. Randy McNally announced the creation of a group of lawmakers to study the potential impact

LAUSD VOWS TO STOP THE CO-LOCATION SH*TSHOW

LAUSD restricts charter school co-location

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by Mike Simpson / 2d

Well, folks, it looks like the billionaires' playbook for destroying public schools has hit another snag. The Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) has finally said "enough" to the sh*tshow that is charter school co-location in public schools. For those of you who don't know, charter schools are privately run schools that receive public funding. They often lease space on public school camp

SCREAMING SCREEN TIME, KIDS AND THEIR PHONES

by Mike Simpson / 2d

SCREAMING SCREEN TIME KIDS AND THEIR PHONES Are you tired of your kids being glued to their phones all day? Do you miss the days when they actually talked to you instead of texting? Well, fear not, because I've got some hilarious tips to help you navigate the world of screen time and keep your kids from turning into phone zombies. First things first, let's talk about when to give your child their

SEP 26

MAGA PARENTS LOVE TRANSGENDER NOTIFICATION POLICIES AND HATE TRANS KIDS

by Mike Simpson / 3d

Parents love to hate, hate to love, and love to laugh about transgender notification policies. It's a complicated issue, with many different opinions and viewpoints, but one thing is for sure: MAGA parents are the masters of contradictions. On one hand, they love the idea of schools informing them if their child identifies as transgender. It gives them a chance to feel like they're in control, t

HOME ALONE AND ANOTHER DAY WITHOUT FOOD: THE BLESSING OF A 4 DAY SCHOOL WEEK

by Mike Simpson / 3d

Ah, the joys of parenthood! The sleepless nights, the endless diaper changes, and now, the struggle to find childcare on that elusive fifth day of the school week. Yes, my friends, we are living in a time where the four-day school week is becoming more and more popular. It's like a comedy of errors, where the punchline is that learning is optional and poor kids are left alone without food. Hilar

CA GOV GAVIN NEWSOM BANS BOOK BANNING MAGA PEOPLE LOOSE THEIR SH*T

by Mike Simpson / 3d

In a move that has left book-banning enthusiasts shaking in their boots, California Governor Gavin Newsom has signed a bill that puts an end to their archaic practices. The bill, which imposes heavy fines on school districts that attempt to ban books featuring historically marginalized communities, including LGBTQ+ people, is a direct response to recent attempts by conservative areas in Californ

CASSIDY HUTCHINSON SAY 'ENOUGH' TO WHITE HOUSE LIES

by Mike Simpson / 3d

Former White House aide Cassidy Hutchinson has just released her new book, "Enough," and it's a doozy. In it, she exposes the desperate duplicity of the Trump administration and their stormtroopers in the Oval Office. Cassidy pulls no punches as she calls out Trump and his cronies for what they are: conniving cowards plotting the overthrow of democracy. According to Hutchinson, Trump is gearing

SEP 25

FLORIDA AND OKLAHOMA FLAT EARTHER REJOICE: POLITICIANS DEFUND CHINESE LANGUAGE AND CULTURE PROGRAMS

Florida suspends scholarships for schools

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by Mike Simpson / 4d

In a move that can only be described as "not to be outdone by Oklahoma," Florida has decided to defund voucher support for schools that teach Chinese language and culture. Because, you know, the Chinese supporting education programs in America is just too scary for some people. It seems that the fear of learning about world cultures, histories, and languages is enough to excite the base of polit

FLORIDA'S NEW VOODOO EDUCATION LAWS TURNS ATTORNEYS INTO DODO BIRDS

by Mike Simpson / 4d

In a move that has left attorneys scratching their heads and educators running for cover, Florida has implemented a series of new education laws that are so bizarre and convoluted, they make Governor DeSantis' failing woke campaign for president look like a model of clarity and coherence. The new laws, which include the Stop Woke Act and the Parental Rights in Education law, have caused confusio

IN A REALLY DIRTY MOVE MEATAXE MIKE MILES CUTS HISD CUSTODIAL STAFF

by Mike Simpson / 4d

Houston, we have a problem. And his name is MeatAxe Mike Miles. The state-appointed superintendent of Houston ISD is on a mission to destroy the district and privatize the schools, and he's not even trying to hide it. In fact, he's hoping to do it much sooner than his estimated five-year plan. Miles has already made some diabolical moves, like cutting custodial staff because apparently dirty sch

SEP 24

YOU CAN'T SWING A DEAD CAT WITHOUT HITTING A RIGHT WING KOCH NETWORK ASTROTURF FRONT GROUP

by Mike Simpson / 5d

Have you ever tried swinging a dead cat? Not that I recommend it, but apparently it's quite difficult to do without hitting a right wing astroturf front group. And if you're not careful, you might just find yourself partnered with the likes of the Koch brothers and the voucher vultures of public education. According to a 2016 report by Media Matters, the education reform movement is being backed

OKLA MAD MAGA MONK SAYS RED DOESN'T WORK FOR HIM IN OKLA PUBLIC SCHOOLS

by Mike Simpson / 5d

Oklahoma, the land of red people, where history textbooks have been playing a game of Chinese whispers for far too long. But fear not, my fellow readers, for I, the Disruptor of Mad Maga Monk Rasputin Walters (also known as SSPI of Oklahoma Education), am here to enlighten you with the hilarious absurdity that has been unfolding in our beloved state. You see, according to the great and mighty Wa

WHO IS PIMPING MAGA VOUCHERS AT THE KOCH NETWORK PLAYERS BALL

by Mike Simpson / 5d

In a shocking turn of events, the conservative parent group Moms for Liberty has donated fake pocket Constitutions to Brevard Public Schools. The group, known for their opposition to mask mandates, critical race theory, and other progressive policies, has been caught red-handed trying to indoctrinate innocent children with their right-wing agenda. The pocket Constitutions, which include an "oath

SEP 23

TOP BANANA: TOP READS THIS WEEK 9-23-23 #tbats #edchat #K12 #learning #edtech #StandUpUAW

by Mike Simpson / 6d

TOP BANANA: TOP READS THIS WEEK 9-23-23 Big Education Ape: GLORIA JOHNSON STANDING TALL FOR TENNESSEE https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/09/gloria-johnson-standing-tall-for.html Big Education Ape: DUHSANTIS IS KILLING SCIENCE IN FLORIDA https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/09/duhsantis-is-killing-science-in-florida.html Big Education Ape: NORTH CAROLINA BUDGET: CUTS FUNDING TO PUBLIC