Blog

After Super Pac Tuesday: Dominant Donors, Apathetic Voters

Wednesday, March 7, 2012

Democracy Advocate

A new WashingtonPost-ABC News poll shows that on Super Tuesday, those going to cast their ballots in the presidential primary are not particularly enthusiastic about any of the candidates. Why? There is a fundamental problem that explains much of the disconnect between the candidates and the rank-and-file voters: the fact is, voters did not choose these candidates -- donors did.

It has become clear over the course of this primary season that a candidate's super PAC's prowess in knocking down the competition is key to staying in the race. Yet a recent U.S.PIRG/Demos study found that of all itemized contributions to super PACs, 96% came in contributions of $10,000 or more from just 1,097 donors.

Democracy

Some interesting consumer news of the week, in case you missed it

Sunday, March 4, 2012

By | Ed Mierzwinski

Consumer Program Director

An occasional update featuring important consumer stories you may have missed this week. This week, Occupy Wall Street joins clarion call for CFPB to reform the credit bureaus...Leading consumer columnist Michelle Singletary calls Google's practices "creepy"...Massachusetts official says "take state's money out of banks that don't comply with state laws requiring free accounts for young/old...FCC wants comment on cellphone shutdowns that affect First Amendment rights...and more.

Consumer Protection

B of A tests new fees, CFPB asks for your checking account complaints

Thursday, March 1, 2012

By | Ed Mierzwinski

Consumer Program Director

Reporters are calling about BofA's proposed new checking account fees, "Ed, what does it mean?" Meanwhile the CFPB says checking accounts can be "complex and confusing" and announced it is now ready and waiting for your checking account complaints. Find out more.

Consumer Protection

Apple Juice Act will take out Arsenic and Lead in Juice

Thursday, March 1, 2012

By | Nasima Hossain

Public Health Advocate

A Consumer Reports investigation revealed that many brands of apple juice currently on the market contain dangerously high levels of arsenic and lead and a bill has been introduced to make apple juice safe.