The Likability Factor The Likability Factor
“The polls agree: President Barack Obama is likable. The question is whether he’s likable enough to get re-elected.” — Politico It’s said, as a rule, the most likable guy Is likely the guy who’ll pull through. And, given the candidates now set to try, The Democrats hope that is true. Though voters, polls show, think Obama is cool And Romney is colder than ice, More likable’s not an infallible tool. Remember: Dick Nixon won twice.
Jun 14, 2012 / Column / Calvin Trillin
What’s the Matter With Creationism? What’s the Matter With Creationism?
Forty-six percent of Americans believe that God created human beings within the last 10,000 years or so. Worry.
Jun 14, 2012 / Column / Katha Pollitt
Europe: Hotbed of Islamophobic Extremism Europe: Hotbed of Islamophobic Extremism
Europeans are not threatened by a Muslim minority. It's the other way round.
Jun 14, 2012 / Column / Gary Younge
Business Experience Business Experience
Last week, Mitt Romney floated an idea at a campaign rally in Las Vegas: the future president should be required to have three years of business experience before serving in office. —The Washington Post Experience in business is vital, said Mitt— Three years at the least, in the plan he unveiled. Though Truman’s accomplishments seem to suggest The business in question would have to have failed.
Jun 6, 2012 / Column / Calvin Trillin
How Our Genetic Maps Are Being Sold to the Highest Bidder How Our Genetic Maps Are Being Sold to the Highest Bidder
People who give DNA samples—and big bucks—to companies in exchange for information on their potential medical risks are handing over more than saliva.
Jun 6, 2012 / Column / Patricia J. Williams
Show Us the Money Show Us the Money
A web of right-wing groups bankrolled by billionaires dominates our politics. Our media shouldn’t let them remain in the shadows.
Jun 6, 2012 / Column / Eric Alterman
The Bain of Mitt Romney’s Existence The Bain of Mitt Romney’s Existence
He’s running on all of his triumphs at Bain, But some say the Democrats ought to refrain From saying Bain’s gain was at times inhumane (Because of its strategy aiming to drain A company’s treasure, no matter what pain Is caused to the workers whom it won’t retain). Yes, Bain did some good, its defenders explain: Some pension funds shared in its capital gain. So vulture’s a label for Mitt they disdain— Though buzzard’s OK, and is just as germane.
May 30, 2012 / Column / Calvin Trillin
Obama Lights Up the War on Pot Obama Lights Up the War on Pot
The administration promised a sensible approach to drug policy. So why are the feds attacking the medical marijuana industry?
May 30, 2012 / Column / Alexander Cockburn
Wage Theft: A Crime Without Punishment? Wage Theft: A Crime Without Punishment?
Tip-stealing bosses are rarely called to account for their abuses. It's time to blow the whistle.
May 30, 2012 / Column / Katha Pollitt
Barack Obama and Jeremiah Wright: Reprise Barack Obama and Jeremiah Wright: Reprise
A black divine named Jeremiah Wright Preached scary sermons some would like to cite. They say Obama’s even now Wright’s knight— A Christian pastor’s Muslim acolyte. It’s one way to remind us he’s not white. If this won’t work, there’re other things that might. The Super PACs will find a way. Sit tight.
May 23, 2012 / Column / Calvin Trillin