surprise! surprise! state legislatures for sale. Never thought it could happen here!
9
The only thing a politician fears more than losing a big time donor is losing his seat.
Until We the People rise up and say no more money in politics, these shenanigans will continue.
The ball is so totally in our court.
I gave $100 to Bernie Sanders. Have you?
Until We the People rise up and say no more money in politics, these shenanigans will continue.
The ball is so totally in our court.
I gave $100 to Bernie Sanders. Have you?
12
Disgusting as this is, there isn't a candidate on the rostrum except Sanders that doesn't live in the same glass house as Rubio, so no "low information voters" will ever learn about this disgrace, save from the Times and other 'elite' media, which of course they never encounter.
8
And this is all legal? How stupid can we be in this country?
13
What can one say, other than quid pro quo?
8
I've been paying off my student loans & paying taxes, trying to live within my means, trying to be a contributing member of society. What a chump I've been - all I needed to do was run for office as a Republican and I could've found a billionaire sponsor: a Braman or a Koch or an Adelson or a … what was the name of Santorum's sponsor?
Sickening.
Sickening.
14
Why is this front page news? It's because presidential candidate notoriety is defined by the amount of wealth flowing to him/her. Braman sells very expensive cars to very wealthy people. So what that he is supporting Rubio, except for his money.
2
Nearly all of the other people commenting on this article have expressed some level of outrage. It strikes me that Senator Rubio's relationship with Mr. Braman is very open and well disclosed. This is in sharp contrast with donors to the Clintons and their foundation. Where's the outrage there?
4
Did I understand this correctly?. One of the Republican presidential candidates is getting support for his run against the "tax and spend" Democrats because he directed public funds to a project favored by his supporter? And that said backer has a strong distaste against wasteful government spending? And that said backer has said that he gets "good service" from the candidate?
I think it would be beneficial to the US government budget to simply auction off the presidency to the highest bidder directly and let the winner appoint a president. The funds raised could be used to finance the government.
I think it would be beneficial to the US government budget to simply auction off the presidency to the highest bidder directly and let the winner appoint a president. The funds raised could be used to finance the government.
11
Well it looks as if mr rubbio has discovered the republican secret that can make even a poor immigrant immigrants kid presidential, - YOU'R OWN PERSONAL BILLIONAIRE!!!
But of course Mr. Rubbio will be focusing on the immigrant part of the story, - not the billionaire part......
Nothing like doin' it on your own - not!
But of course Mr. Rubbio will be focusing on the immigrant part of the story, - not the billionaire part......
Nothing like doin' it on your own - not!
10
This picture looks like a ventriloquist projecting his voice so it appears the words come from Mr. Rubio in from of him. How bizarre
9
The only thing better than owning a Senator is owning a President.
15
"Did Obama Kill Public Campaign Finance?"
NPR news story, October 22, 2008:
http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=95957148
From the story: "Irony alert: The Republican standard-bearer is using federal grants, while the Democrat extols the free-market virtues of individual campaign donations."
NPR news story, October 22, 2008:
http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=95957148
From the story: "Irony alert: The Republican standard-bearer is using federal grants, while the Democrat extols the free-market virtues of individual campaign donations."
2
Not new, not surprising, just scary.
9
What good is being a billionaire if you can't buy a senator or two to make you a multibillionaire.
Every billionaire can buy a senator. But only genius can buy a president.
Every billionaire can buy a senator. But only genius can buy a president.
8
A man who has a sugar daddy that is bank rolling his presidential run, his wife and household expenses, this has to be one for the history books. Republicans who is all about family values has no issue with that.
16
The Democrats should put up a series of ads during the campaign showing the pictures, the type of business and the monetary worth of each big-time contributor to the Republican campaign, and ask "Is this guy going to fight for you or for them"? Granted that the Democratic candidate, unless it be Bernie Sanders, will carry her/his load of big timers, but the difference in numbers can be telling.
9
Very funny comment. To think of the tens of millions that Obama got from special interests and the tens of millions that Hilary already got from billionaires abroad, makes Rubio's child's play.
3
End of the Republic. Exactly as the end of the Roman Republic.
I'd like my cash payment and a bottle of whiskey,though. Cannot stand the cretinous presidential campaign ads. Just pay me, oligarchs !
I'd like my cash payment and a bottle of whiskey,though. Cannot stand the cretinous presidential campaign ads. Just pay me, oligarchs !
10
People still have the freedom to vote for anybody they want in this country.
Money only buys elections when people either don't vote or vote for people based on their campaign promises, commercials, news reports, race or gender instead of their qualifications and values.
This is the only way they can lose their freedom.
Money only buys elections when people either don't vote or vote for people based on their campaign promises, commercials, news reports, race or gender instead of their qualifications and values.
This is the only way they can lose their freedom.
7
A match made in Heaven...or what passes for such these days....
4
He appears to be bought and paid for and by all accounts he not very successful at managing his own financial interests. We need a President who has some financial credentials not someone bankrolled by big money. Mitt has those credentials.
7
And all this is different from Menendez's situation how exactly? Except that is is perhaps a wee bit more egregious?
6
Marco Rubio represents the nearly 20 million people of Florida, however a substantial portion of his income comes from one billionaire. His past tax proposal cut the taxes of property owners and shifted it to the low income consumers. His current tax plan cuts the top tax rates on those making more than half a million dollars a year while increasing the lowest marginal rate by 50%, hitting the working poor and middle class the hardest.
He aspires to represent the 300 million Americans, but it is only the very few who he truly represents.
He aspires to represent the 300 million Americans, but it is only the very few who he truly represents.
16
All these comments say that the relationship between Rubio and Braman disqualifies Rubio from the presidency? How about the Senate?
18
what a great country we live in to be able to sell cars and become a billionaire then donating to the 'weak' and disadvantaged
7
I read this like a movie script, it's hard to imagine we actually, really do have politicians so blatantly bought and groomed by billionares. Perhaps this is not so new, but somehow being able to lay it out so clearly makes Rubio look like he is being pimped. I wonder if he realizes it. I've been under the illusion that he was self made. Sad
12
The Federal tax code could rid us of all billionaires. And millionaires.
9
If this is what it takes for an ambitious young politician to get ahead, we are all in deep, deep trouble. This is all about influence peddling, pure and simple. Mr. Braman's philanthropy and public spiritedness may be a cut above other billionaires who are currently financing various other political hopefuls' campaigns for office, mostly Republican. It's one thing when a billionaire like Michael Bloomberg takes time off from pursuing his business interests at actually runs for office. It's quite another when a billionaire uses his wealth to propel a relatively unknown candidate into office and thereafter becomes that candidate's primary financial supporter. I saw nothing in the article that suggested that Sen. Rubio's donor base has broadened significantly since he became a senator. The omission is telling, because it suggests that his political career is being kept afloat by someone who dabbles in politics as a hobby. Needless to say, as to those matters that affect his patron's wealth, Rubio can be expected to toe the line without regard to whether his position comports with the public interest in any way. If Sen. Rubio's present and future political career continued to depend upon the largess of a single individual, this is bad news for him, and we are all the worse for it.
13
That's what you call "freedom." The old guy builds a business, gets rich, starts a philanthropy with his money, and persuades a public official who was elected by the people, to vote public funding for cancer research and treatment. What a revolting development?!
2
If all that Mr. Braman was intending to do was supporting cancer research, he would've gotten more bang for his buck by simply contributing to cancer research, rather than contributing to Sen. Rubio's reelection campaign war chest. He would also get a hefty tax deduction, too. Mention of cancer research was a throwaway item in the story, as it obviously was for Mr. Braman. The gist of the story is that Mr. Braman bought himself a senator, and a particularly loyal one at that. For a certain class of billionaires, public-spirited giftgiving comes with the territory; it's a way of whitewashing some of the evil that they do in the pursuit of profit. Even the Koch brothers are generous contributors to PBS for glitzy science programs on astrophysics, burying the fact that a great deal of Koch money is spent on suffocating our planet with petrochemical waste. Learning about star systems in distant galaxies is all very nice indeed, but breathing clean air is much nicer. We know that Mr. Braman has significant business interests that are affected by governmental regulation, and his campaign contributions to Sen. Rubio are intended to protect those business interests. That, my friend, is not "freedom", it is corruption.
3
O.k. Florida now you know where the money comes from. Its a car dealership.
Xi Jing Ping and Putin are just shaking.
Explain again to these two gentlemen how to get man and material to the ever regressing Arctic circle?
That's where the resources are.
Xi Jing Ping and Putin are just shaking.
Explain again to these two gentlemen how to get man and material to the ever regressing Arctic circle?
That's where the resources are.
3
The trick is to not get your picture taken with your Big Daddy donor. Hillary Clinton was in San Francisco (where I live) last Wednesday. She attended an afternoon fundraiser at a very big donor's home, with over 100 well-heeled attendees, and an evening fundraiser at another big donor's home, with dozens more well-heeled attendees. Not a single photo of either event.
But in between, Ms. Clinton stopped (briefly) to talk with San Francisco mayor Ed Lee, with whom she discussed "real problems" of San Francisco. Lots of photos of that.
That's how it's done right. Apparently Rubio is too young to have learned this.
But in between, Ms. Clinton stopped (briefly) to talk with San Francisco mayor Ed Lee, with whom she discussed "real problems" of San Francisco. Lots of photos of that.
That's how it's done right. Apparently Rubio is too young to have learned this.
7
I would like to know what the Supreme Court Justices are thinking when they read articles like this, or witness the outsized influence of power brokers such as the Koch brothers, to whom Republican Party Presidential hopefuls have become sycophants.
I wonder if Justices Kennedy, Roberts, Alito, Thomas, or Scalia feel any sense of regret, or if they feel that this is unfettered free speech at its best. I wonder if they continue to feel that their decisions in Citizens United are in the best interests of our nation.
Sadly, it is likely that they lose very little sleep over this.
I wonder if Justices Kennedy, Roberts, Alito, Thomas, or Scalia feel any sense of regret, or if they feel that this is unfettered free speech at its best. I wonder if they continue to feel that their decisions in Citizens United are in the best interests of our nation.
Sadly, it is likely that they lose very little sleep over this.
18
Scalia is probably rubbing his hands in glee, Thomas is exploding with joy, Roberts is beaming with pride, and Alito and Kennedy are lighting up the fat cigars and toasting each other with shots of the finest Irish whiskey.
3
A brilliant piece that might help us understand why hardly any country in the world wants what we have. We have created a superb plutocracy and now it's a matter of time when China figures out how to do the same while calling it democracy.
While any sane person would be horrified how things like these can be legal, that is no concern for our plutocrats and journalists making sure not to upset them.
While any sane person would be horrified how things like these can be legal, that is no concern for our plutocrats and journalists making sure not to upset them.
5
Campaign violation written all over this story....some Democracy we live in where any politician can be bought by another billionaire like the Koch's, a huge thank you Justice Roberts and the Citizen United legislation from the highest Bench in the Land.
6
It is clear from this article that Rubio have been bought. By the way, how did Braman make his money?
5
There is no greater stain on one's reputation than to be endorsed by a billionaire. It means that someone who ought to know believes you can be bought.
8
The bill mentioned at the end that Mr. Braman was pleased about meant that Florida taxpayers will have to help pay litigation costs so that car dealers can keep more profits for recall repairs.
The Kochs own Walker; this billionaire owns Rubio; and no doubt the same is true for other Republican candidates. This sleazy and open corruption should be illegal. John Boehner once handed out cigarette company lobbyist's checks to his colleagues on the floor of the Capitol. And yet, the Republican smear machine such as Limbaugh's lie about Hillary Clinton and Watergate are all over the Internet as "evidence" of her being unethical.
Citizens United did indeed open the floodgates of corruption into what used to be American democracy. The next Democrat president needs to prioritize Supreme Court appointments that will end this corruption. No Democrat or Independent should sit out the 2016 election and hand it over to these bought politicians.
Colbert's joke a few years back was actually a prophecy: "If David Koch likes his waiter tonight, he will be your next congressman."
The Kochs own Walker; this billionaire owns Rubio; and no doubt the same is true for other Republican candidates. This sleazy and open corruption should be illegal. John Boehner once handed out cigarette company lobbyist's checks to his colleagues on the floor of the Capitol. And yet, the Republican smear machine such as Limbaugh's lie about Hillary Clinton and Watergate are all over the Internet as "evidence" of her being unethical.
Citizens United did indeed open the floodgates of corruption into what used to be American democracy. The next Democrat president needs to prioritize Supreme Court appointments that will end this corruption. No Democrat or Independent should sit out the 2016 election and hand it over to these bought politicians.
Colbert's joke a few years back was actually a prophecy: "If David Koch likes his waiter tonight, he will be your next congressman."
19
I wonder when in the future the USA will see a second Civil War. This one fought against an/the oligarchic state in which we will soon live.
5
I'm actually willing to believe Rubio would have made exactly the same decisions if Braman hadn't given him a dime.
Rubio still should be scratched off everyone's list for two reasons:
1. Any politician running for President should know enough to avoid even the APPEARANCE of corruption. Clearly Rubio doesn't get this.
2. It's clear Rubio can't manage his personal finances. I sure don't want him managing the US' finances, nor telling other Americans how they should run theirs.
Rubio still should be scratched off everyone's list for two reasons:
1. Any politician running for President should know enough to avoid even the APPEARANCE of corruption. Clearly Rubio doesn't get this.
2. It's clear Rubio can't manage his personal finances. I sure don't want him managing the US' finances, nor telling other Americans how they should run theirs.
11
"Why isn’t this enough to disqualify Mr. Rubio for the presidency?"
Judging from the comments, it IS enough. Hard to imagine him getting anywhere after this.
Judging from the comments, it IS enough. Hard to imagine him getting anywhere after this.
10
If it were enough, the Clintons would be history. Most of these comments are from people who would vote for any democratic candidate in a NY second with these connections.
In fact, liberals are probably wishing Clinton's connections were only this bad.
In fact, liberals are probably wishing Clinton's connections were only this bad.
2
This newspaper would be a whole lot smarter to deny green checkmarks to people who abuse the term "liberal" as you do.
4
Sadly, I do think Rubio still has a shot: most Times readers would not have voted for Rubio even if you put a gun to their heads [and this before the article came out]. Those who voted for him in Florida and those who will vote for him in other red states either won't read this or simply won't care.
2
Ignore the man behind the curtain. And also the Koch brothers. And Sheldon Adelson. Let's just fixate on the Clinton Foundation.
8
Is there anyone this newspaper would consider a credible presidential candidate without some billionaire's patronage?
6
There they go again. "Citizens United" is the newest bandwagon of liberals. They've moved on from "evil, greedy corporations". There's always someone or something against which they are railing.
Meanwhile, their party produces a candidate who is so unethical and cannot produce a decent "trusted" rating in a poll that they have to trot out a decoy, Bernie Sanders, to say all the right things to distract them and make them believe they are still holding onto their values until they are finally "forced" to vote for the ethically challenged Hillary.
Meanwhile, their party produces a candidate who is so unethical and cannot produce a decent "trusted" rating in a poll that they have to trot out a decoy, Bernie Sanders, to say all the right things to distract them and make them believe they are still holding onto their values until they are finally "forced" to vote for the ethically challenged Hillary.
3
You too always seem to find a way to rail, so maybe it's the pot, the kettle.
The GOP is in hot water with these prom king candidates who are really running for a TV career.
The GOP is in hot water with these prom king candidates who are really running for a TV career.
1
This was in response to a post.
It's naive to bemoan the fact that rich and powerful people have more influence over politicians than do the average citizen. This is going to be true in any form of government. And when a billionaire uses this influence to push for a cancer center, rather than for policies that destroy our environment, I'm okay with that.
1
I had hope for Rubio when he put forth a decent immigration plan. But then he got pressured by the right wing of his party and immediately folded. I knew then that if he didn't have enough courage to stand and fight for something he said he believed in, he didn't have what it takes to be president. That he has been bought by a car dealer billionaire sadly comes as no surprise.
15
This is exactly why Bernie Sanders is the best candidate instead of men like Rubio and even Hillary. Why show up to even vote and pretend we have a democracy if billionaires are buying their own candidates to do all their personal bidding for them. Legislation will be written for them or opposed strictly because it upsets their billionaire owner. Just look at who benefits from the TPP trade agreement President Obama is pushing hard for. The very same millionaires/billionaires who own the corporations and own the lobbyists that helped write TPP. They want to outsource the rest of the American jobs to asian countries like Vietnam where their workers get paid 56 cents an hour and there will be no real enforcement of human rights in a communist country. It's not American workers pushing for this trade deal, we can't compete with non-livable wages. This is for those people who buy our candidates and they now have to pay up. You know when your country's sovereignty can be sold outright with this disastrous TPP trade deal our democracy has been sold out from under us. All goes back to who buys our candidates lock, stock, and barrel....billionaires. I'll vote for Bernie !
9
Vote for him in the primaries if you want, but if Sanders runs as an independent, a vote for Sanders in '16 will be the same as a vote for Nader in 2000.
2
Like so many other unlikely alliances it is the uncritical devotion to Israel that brings these two together . Discard the notion about Rubio becoming the first Hispanic president or his domestic policy (other than how it may affect Normans business deals) it is the rabid loyalty to Israel-right or wrong -and the staunch and immutable support for that country even when In doing so may be against the best interest of America- that Is the key factor in their relationship. Jewish influence in US politics runs rampant and if anyone dares oppose it they will automatically be branded with the new scarlet "A" for anti-semitism . It's Israel first and USA second in the eyes of people like Mr Norman the car salesman.
13
So what in this article is news. I'm sure the NYT did their best to try and deliver some obvious conflict of interest for Rubio or dirt on Braham. Hey here's a news flash for some of the obvious republican bashing comments found here. Billionaire political contributers isn't exclusive to republican candidates, and neither is quick access, just ask George Soros.
3
The difference is Democrats are fighting to overturn Citizens United while the Republican appointees to the Supreme Court made it the law of the land.
The other other difference is Democrats are fighting to reduce income and wealth inequality while Republicans are blocking efforts to increase the minimum wage at the same time they are fighting to end the Estate Tax that affects 0.02% of estates larger than $10 million.
The other other difference is Democrats are fighting to reduce income and wealth inequality while Republicans are blocking efforts to increase the minimum wage at the same time they are fighting to end the Estate Tax that affects 0.02% of estates larger than $10 million.
11
Menendez and Rubio are peas from the same pathetic pod.
1
I really dislike Marco Rubio as a potential Republican candidate. This article makes me dislike him even more. The prospect of this dimwit becoming President of the U.S. Is something every person who cares about the future of democracy in this country to be very concerned.
23
Latest addition to the running-for-president check list: Get your personal billionaire lined up!
7
Bradman hired Mr. Rubio as a lawyer; employed his wife to advise the Braman family’s philanthropic foundation; helped cover the cost of Mr. Rubio’s salary as an instructor at a Miami college; and gave Mr. Rubio access to his private plane.
Mr. Rubio has steered taxpayer funds to Mr. Braman’s favored causes, successfully pushing for an $80 million state grant to finance a genomics center at a private university and securing $5 million for cancer research at a Miami institute for which Mr. Braman is a major donor.
Scalia, Alioto, Thomas and Roberts mock our country's Founders and all the people who fought and died to protect our democracy, by equating free speech with money using the bold face lie that money is not a corrupting force in politics.
This article illustrates the shameful corruption that the highest court in the land protects, supports and actually encourages.
Mr. Rubio has steered taxpayer funds to Mr. Braman’s favored causes, successfully pushing for an $80 million state grant to finance a genomics center at a private university and securing $5 million for cancer research at a Miami institute for which Mr. Braman is a major donor.
Scalia, Alioto, Thomas and Roberts mock our country's Founders and all the people who fought and died to protect our democracy, by equating free speech with money using the bold face lie that money is not a corrupting force in politics.
This article illustrates the shameful corruption that the highest court in the land protects, supports and actually encourages.
23
Marco Rubio can't manage his own household money.
This is a guy from the party that says the government should stay within their budget like a family?
He should never have been in a state legislature, much less the US Senate where with a higher salary, he is further in debt than when he went there.
These people have no shame.
This is a guy from the party that says the government should stay within their budget like a family?
He should never have been in a state legislature, much less the US Senate where with a higher salary, he is further in debt than when he went there.
These people have no shame.
17
Living in South Florida, the relationship is way, way too close. If the duck walks and quacks, it IS a duck.
http://thetruthoncommonsense.com
http://thetruthoncommonsense.com
11
Is this not a form of corruption?
6
So much for fiscal responsibility: Rubio can't even keep his personal finances above water. Would any real conservative vote for a spendthrift like this?
What about the story that the national debt is just like household debt?
What about the story that the national debt is just like household debt?
13
Mr. Rubio said in an interview that he saw no ethical issue. “What is the conflict?” he asked.
Will someone please explain this to Rubio? It's not that difficult, but I find myself spluttering.
Will someone please explain this to Rubio? It's not that difficult, but I find myself spluttering.
24
So we have billionaire Las Vegas casino owners, car dealership owners, hedge fund managers and Big Coal/Big Ag/Big Evangelical behind our political leaders. Wonderful.
15
While Rubio sees absolutely NO problem with the state helping out a cancer institute...not all cancer institutes are equal.
I am aware of one privately and state funded cancer center that believes that prayer (to a Christian God) is the main tenet of getting better....not a spiritual part..but all in prayer...and NO chemo drugs.
That Rubio is this naive is downright terrifying.
I am aware of one privately and state funded cancer center that believes that prayer (to a Christian God) is the main tenet of getting better....not a spiritual part..but all in prayer...and NO chemo drugs.
That Rubio is this naive is downright terrifying.
18
what other horses are in Mr. Braman's stable?
16
Rubio tells us he's a new generation of leadership that sees the world from a fresh perspective. Yet his far-right politics are that of a very old white guy. Now we know that old white guy's name.
30
Anyone who takes contributions, and takes a job from this person while campaigning, allows spouse to be on the payroll after election where your campaign was bankrolled by this person does not possess the personal qualities to be President. Once you take money for personal services, you have been bought. Citizens United didn't cause such blatant willing blindness.
21
This is news?
Please note that billionaires haven't been getting such good returns on their investments in idiot lightweights who can't manage to get elected even with tsunamis of cash.
Romney couldn't get *himself* elected with his own money.
But these guys are all bought and paid for, one way or another. Not even Bernie Sanders, who a considerable number of NYT commenters seem to think is Moshiach sent from the upper elevations of Vermont via Brooklyn, didn't have the stomach to buck the AIPAC take on the murder of children in Gaza. For me, personally, that was a disappointment too far.
I, who voted for Obama twice and am getting tired of being let down by everyone I've been convinced to believe in, still regard Jimmy Carter as the only honest politician of our time--a President who had the guts to tell us the truth even knowing it would doom him to a one-term Presidency. Note to those who think it wasn't worth it: he has gone on to a remarkable career as a world statesman for justice. None of the rest of them will ever be able to say the same.
Please note that billionaires haven't been getting such good returns on their investments in idiot lightweights who can't manage to get elected even with tsunamis of cash.
Romney couldn't get *himself* elected with his own money.
But these guys are all bought and paid for, one way or another. Not even Bernie Sanders, who a considerable number of NYT commenters seem to think is Moshiach sent from the upper elevations of Vermont via Brooklyn, didn't have the stomach to buck the AIPAC take on the murder of children in Gaza. For me, personally, that was a disappointment too far.
I, who voted for Obama twice and am getting tired of being let down by everyone I've been convinced to believe in, still regard Jimmy Carter as the only honest politician of our time--a President who had the guts to tell us the truth even knowing it would doom him to a one-term Presidency. Note to those who think it wasn't worth it: he has gone on to a remarkable career as a world statesman for justice. None of the rest of them will ever be able to say the same.
16
“I don’t consider myself a fat cat,” he said. “Don’t make me out to be a fat cat.”
Not many "fat cats" consider themselves fat cats. Those around them do based on their conduct. The real question is will the American voter and especially the GOP primary voters see Rubio for what he is:
Bought and Paid For, American Style.
Money Talks and big money talks loudest as demonstrated by the Braman's comment "That was Fast" and the advisor's thumbs-up regarding his auto dealer sweet deal in Rubio's Florida Senate while at the same time denying his fat cat habits.
Bought and Paid For: On immigration; on Israel, on sales taxes versus property taxes we now know who wags the tail. Don't ask Rubio, just look at Braman. If you like his position vote for Rubio. Not really any different than the Koch influence on the entire GOP; just more targeted.
In 2016 lets just have a nationwide auction using live tv and the internet for bidding. At the end of the day the bidder with the highest bid wins and picks the President to be his puppet. It would probably be more reflective of our American reality and a heck of lot less time consuming and dishonest about who is pulling the strings around here.
Not many "fat cats" consider themselves fat cats. Those around them do based on their conduct. The real question is will the American voter and especially the GOP primary voters see Rubio for what he is:
Bought and Paid For, American Style.
Money Talks and big money talks loudest as demonstrated by the Braman's comment "That was Fast" and the advisor's thumbs-up regarding his auto dealer sweet deal in Rubio's Florida Senate while at the same time denying his fat cat habits.
Bought and Paid For: On immigration; on Israel, on sales taxes versus property taxes we now know who wags the tail. Don't ask Rubio, just look at Braman. If you like his position vote for Rubio. Not really any different than the Koch influence on the entire GOP; just more targeted.
In 2016 lets just have a nationwide auction using live tv and the internet for bidding. At the end of the day the bidder with the highest bid wins and picks the President to be his puppet. It would probably be more reflective of our American reality and a heck of lot less time consuming and dishonest about who is pulling the strings around here.
13
The shocking reality is that while Sheldon Adelson and Norman Braman are covering all bets for a Netanyahu engineered American war of aggression against Iran in the GOP presidential primary, Chaim Saban who is just as militant in his support of the Likud is now Hillary Clinton's number one funder. We need to be just as wary of this in the Democratic primary and not coronate a neo-con Democrat like Clinton.
4
Interesting profile of a politician's patron. All politicians need patrons to run for office in the US. It is the soft underbelly of our democratic system which depends on expensive marketing flash over policy substance. Mr. Braman sounds more benign than Adelson the Kochs or Soros for that matter. I am not a fan of Rubio, but what is reported about this relationship with a highly successful car dealer does not bother me. Now, Saudi Arabian fat cats buying American political and military fire power bothers me.
4
Perhaps we should decide the presidency by just allowing billionaires vote in proportion to their holdings.
That way we could be spared two years of politics.
That way we could be spared two years of politics.
6
Being a Philadelphia Eagles fan, I had hoped that I would never hear the name Norman Braman again. Ugh.
3
And, of course, nothing is expected in return.
13
I'll be interested in what Rubio has to say when he announces that he has concluded that his entire life is a fraudulent lie and he intends to self-deport.
12
I think Rubio's time would be better spent saving some money to send his kids to college. He had assets of 8K in '08 with multiple mortgages and 1/2 million in liabilities? This is in the Never Take a Shirt From a Naked Man territory. How could he possibly govern?
12
This is a heart-warming story to read the tale of the billionaire who befriends new political friends while expecting nothing in return.
Citizens United has brought together so many billionaires and politicians in an "only in America" exercise of free speech.
I wish Frank Capra was still alive to film this golden tale of a boy politician and his billionaire.
Citizens United has brought together so many billionaires and politicians in an "only in America" exercise of free speech.
I wish Frank Capra was still alive to film this golden tale of a boy politician and his billionaire.
22
I wonder what Mr. Braman's views on climate change are? Where will he be re-locating or does he have a plan for Pres. Rubio to implement that will save Miami and its roads for his cars to drive on?
13
What a commendable piece by the New York Times. The dissipation of our democracy through such blatant patronage as always, remains an incessant threat to our form of government. Apparently the new model of one single billionaire pares away the cabal of special interests such as multiple government services corporations and millionaires. In the former, peace is not good for their business model and in the latter---the lack of Wall Street reform locks in their chicanery. It's official, E Pluribus Unum now refers to lobbyists.
7
I see no new story here. This can be written about any politician.
5
While growing up in Lebanon, PA, I got to meet Norm Braman. He married a friend's older sister, Irma Miller, and then went to work for his wife's father - Harry Miller - in Bargaintown, USA, based in Lebanon, PA. Some time later, he ended up owning Bargaintown ...
After that, Norm Braman did buy the Philadelphia Eagles. But then, I only ever heard of Braman when I realized he owned a chain of expensive automobile dealerships in the Florida area, as my wife and I visited her late father in Lauderdale Lakes.
Now I live in Central Florida and, while he certainly has aged, as have we all, he still looks good. But I have to wonder what on earth would convince him to support a lightweight like Marco Rubio for President.
With Mr. Braman's money and brains, it seems he should have thought a bit more deeply to realize that not a single GOP/TP candidate has what it takes to be POTUS, and help move our country forward. They all, in one way or the other, embody the small-mindedness typical of the Republicans and Tea Party members, who look to remove our rights, one by one.
However, it was good to see Norm in the news. A familiar, albeit older, face was a pleasant surprise.
After that, Norm Braman did buy the Philadelphia Eagles. But then, I only ever heard of Braman when I realized he owned a chain of expensive automobile dealerships in the Florida area, as my wife and I visited her late father in Lauderdale Lakes.
Now I live in Central Florida and, while he certainly has aged, as have we all, he still looks good. But I have to wonder what on earth would convince him to support a lightweight like Marco Rubio for President.
With Mr. Braman's money and brains, it seems he should have thought a bit more deeply to realize that not a single GOP/TP candidate has what it takes to be POTUS, and help move our country forward. They all, in one way or the other, embody the small-mindedness typical of the Republicans and Tea Party members, who look to remove our rights, one by one.
However, it was good to see Norm in the news. A familiar, albeit older, face was a pleasant surprise.
4
Wait... wait... wait, don't tell me: Marco Rubio and Norman Braman were once roommates who shared a house that went into bankruptcy?
6
Citizens United didn't have a thing to do with this guy's ability to buy Rubio.
I don't know why so many people keep referencing it.
Personally, I don't like the notion that the government can prosecute, fine, and/or jail people for making a documentary about Hillary Clinton.
The creeping cryptofascism of the Left is alarming.
I don't know why so many people keep referencing it.
Personally, I don't like the notion that the government can prosecute, fine, and/or jail people for making a documentary about Hillary Clinton.
The creeping cryptofascism of the Left is alarming.
2
The "documentary" was very slanted, so Hillary opposed it because it was not truthful. Of course Fox "news" thought it was great.
2
Wish I could buy a senator.
5
'As Mr. Rubio ... has bankrolled Mr. Rubio’s campaigns. He has financed Mr. Rubio’s legislative agenda.' Is this legal? Compare the photo at the head of this article to the article, elsewhere in the NYT, on the divest from Israel movement and it starts to make a lot of sense.
4
Perhaps like Nascar drivers, Rubio should wear a Braman dealership decal on his suit jacket. It appears to me as though Rubio is heavily indebted to Norman. And as the article implies, what Norman wants, Norman gets.
12
People need some history lesson. The founders and framers of our constitution were all businessmen/landowners themselves. Since the founding of this country we always have the lobbyists who hang around the lobby of the congress building. This is nothing new. Bill and Hillary were not millionaires before he become president. A lot of their donors are from the Middle East. Now they are multi millionaires. Candidates will always have wealthy backers, sponsors and advisers. Rubio is not the first nor the last. He came for a poor family. Any will candidate will get a support of someone who have money as long they are in the same political mind. Obama will be a multi millionaire as soon as he gets out of office. Sadly thats how US politics since this country was founded.
4
Nothing in the article surprises me. This type of corruption is rampant in politics and business.
The biggest problem is this: cronyism, corruption and power attracts certain types of people, some of whom spend much of their personal and political lives pandering to and playing up to other people in power, with money.
But what exactly are they doing for the people that they have been voted into office to represent? It becomes increasingly unclear whether they in fact can work for fair and just representation and good government.
Is that the type of candidate that we want for President?
The biggest problem is this: cronyism, corruption and power attracts certain types of people, some of whom spend much of their personal and political lives pandering to and playing up to other people in power, with money.
But what exactly are they doing for the people that they have been voted into office to represent? It becomes increasingly unclear whether they in fact can work for fair and just representation and good government.
Is that the type of candidate that we want for President?
5
Why is this type of bribery allowed? This is how the Lobby hijacks our country.
7
Rubio has difficulties managing his personal finances but wants to be responsible for the country's?
Does he plan on bringing his 82-year-old Sugar Daddy into the White House with him or does he have a newer model in mind?
Does he plan on bringing his 82-year-old Sugar Daddy into the White House with him or does he have a newer model in mind?
9
When Mr. Rubio was the very young Florida Speaker of the House, I traveled to Tallahassee by bus, with other Chamber of Commerce members, to attend 'Chamber Days' - an opportunity for meeting, learning, & lobbying your Representatives, along with other Chambers across the State. Speaker Rubio graciously invited all the Chamber members to the House floor, & allowed us the privilege of sitting in the Honorables' chairs. And he gave a tremendous talk about his '100 Ideas for Florida' project. He & other State legislators were combing Floridians for ideas on how to fix the State, & the top 100 ideas would be chosen, built/implemented, & completed. They would be completed, he said, because he had already spoken to the next Speaker of the House, & the next Speaker after him, & they had both promised to continue his 100 Ideas to completion. I about fell out of my Representative's chair. This '100 Ideas' project is now pitched in his book & it has now turned into a personal project, on hold while campaigning. So I have to wonder, if the next two Speakers of the House for Florida had already promised to finish Mr. Rubio's grand idea, why wasn't it done? The Republican gerrymandered vote didn't come out right during the elections & the next two chosen Speakers didn't make it? A billionaire's pet project? A rising star? Cronyism? Luck? The media already anointing him? I have no doubts. Mr. Rubio was chosen & groomed decades ago. Welcome Mr. President.
2
a candidate for every billionaire!
5
Besides the comments already posted, what galls me?
The fact that Marco appears incapable of balancing his checkbook without outside assistance (aka "subsidies") while he gives the typical (and false) GOP shtick about government finances needing to be managed like household debt. An inability to live within his means while he decries the "takers" benefiting from the "safety net."
The fact that his wife was hired for a billionaire's philanthropic foundation, despite having no experience or qualifications. We can bash plutocrats until the cows come home, but these charitable endeavors disburse a boatload of money, and are constantly besieged by requests for financial support. Think of Steve Martin's character in the movie "The Jerk."
The fact that Rubio supports cancer research at the University of Miami. Otherwise known as science- while he simultaneously rallies against the notion of humans being a main contributor to climate change. CO2 levels just set another milestone, Florida will be one of the first to feel the effects. Rising sea levels are already wreaking havoc in Miami. Meanwhile he probably screeches about defunding the NIH, FDA, EPA. Apparently science is just like states' rights. GOPers are all in favor, except when they're not.
The party of hypocrisy, where facts don't matter, history ignored, and disproven tropes are continually recycled as brilliant solutions. Something's trickling down alright, and it smells like sewage.
The fact that Marco appears incapable of balancing his checkbook without outside assistance (aka "subsidies") while he gives the typical (and false) GOP shtick about government finances needing to be managed like household debt. An inability to live within his means while he decries the "takers" benefiting from the "safety net."
The fact that his wife was hired for a billionaire's philanthropic foundation, despite having no experience or qualifications. We can bash plutocrats until the cows come home, but these charitable endeavors disburse a boatload of money, and are constantly besieged by requests for financial support. Think of Steve Martin's character in the movie "The Jerk."
The fact that Rubio supports cancer research at the University of Miami. Otherwise known as science- while he simultaneously rallies against the notion of humans being a main contributor to climate change. CO2 levels just set another milestone, Florida will be one of the first to feel the effects. Rising sea levels are already wreaking havoc in Miami. Meanwhile he probably screeches about defunding the NIH, FDA, EPA. Apparently science is just like states' rights. GOPers are all in favor, except when they're not.
The party of hypocrisy, where facts don't matter, history ignored, and disproven tropes are continually recycled as brilliant solutions. Something's trickling down alright, and it smells like sewage.
18
We call corruption freedom in America now. This whole thing is obscene and would've read as dark satire not too long ago.
12
A number of people have referenced Citizens United.
These people *clearly* did not read and/or understand that case - they are merely parroting what some left wing former journalism major wrote about it.
That case had and has NOTHING to do with Mr. Braman's ability to make donations.
So it is troubling, from the standpoint of an educated public, to see the Left gather their torches and pitchforks to burn down the 1st Amendment, which Citizens *barely* protected.
"Congress shall make no law... abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press..."
As the majority wrote: "If the First Amendment has any force, it prohibits Congress from fining or jailing citizens, or associations of citizens, for simply engaging in political speech."
The ACLU filed an amicus brief that said the law "should now be struck down as facially unconstitutional"
http://www.ij.org/dispelling-the-top-five-citizens-united-decision-myths
Nothing in the first amendment gives the government the power to punish speech. It does the opposite.
But liberals, always myopic, simply wanted to abridge the speech of people with different political views. So throwing people in jail for making a movie is fine - if they're "right wing."
The Left would send people to political re-education camps given the chance.
Not for the politically correct political speech from the New York Times, INC. of course.
This proves the need for the 1st!
http://reason.com/archives/2010/11/09/you-are-now-free-to-speak-abou
These people *clearly* did not read and/or understand that case - they are merely parroting what some left wing former journalism major wrote about it.
That case had and has NOTHING to do with Mr. Braman's ability to make donations.
So it is troubling, from the standpoint of an educated public, to see the Left gather their torches and pitchforks to burn down the 1st Amendment, which Citizens *barely* protected.
"Congress shall make no law... abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press..."
As the majority wrote: "If the First Amendment has any force, it prohibits Congress from fining or jailing citizens, or associations of citizens, for simply engaging in political speech."
The ACLU filed an amicus brief that said the law "should now be struck down as facially unconstitutional"
http://www.ij.org/dispelling-the-top-five-citizens-united-decision-myths
Nothing in the first amendment gives the government the power to punish speech. It does the opposite.
But liberals, always myopic, simply wanted to abridge the speech of people with different political views. So throwing people in jail for making a movie is fine - if they're "right wing."
The Left would send people to political re-education camps given the chance.
Not for the politically correct political speech from the New York Times, INC. of course.
This proves the need for the 1st!
http://reason.com/archives/2010/11/09/you-are-now-free-to-speak-abou
2
Rubio lacks integrity and courage, and Hillary Clinton will hammer him for this. He was an early sponsor of legislation to overhaul immigration laws and then dropkicked this effort once the tea party crowd and the not-so-subtle racist elements of the traditional older and white Republican echo chamber started attacking him for it.
Most Hispanics (white and non-white, of Mexican, Salvadoran, Argentine, Dominican, Colombian, Nicaraguan, Peruvian, etc. extraction) will resent the hypocrisy of a Cuban-American squashing immigration reform efforts, when Cubans have for decades enjoyed easy access to citizenship and other privileges long denied to all other Hispanic immigrants.
Most Hispanics (white and non-white, of Mexican, Salvadoran, Argentine, Dominican, Colombian, Nicaraguan, Peruvian, etc. extraction) will resent the hypocrisy of a Cuban-American squashing immigration reform efforts, when Cubans have for decades enjoyed easy access to citizenship and other privileges long denied to all other Hispanic immigrants.
8
Indeed, and this is one big reason why Sen. Rubio, should he win the GOP nomination, would not win the majority of the Latino vote.
3
“I do not believe that human activity is causing these dramatic changes to our climate the way these scientists are portraying it” Rubio (ABC News)
"Whether the Earth was created in 7 days, or 7 actual eras, I'm not sure we'll ever be able to answer that," he said. "It's one of the great mysteries." Rubio (GQ)
"Whether the Earth was created in 7 days, or 7 actual eras, I'm not sure we'll ever be able to answer that," he said. "It's one of the great mysteries." Rubio (GQ)
8
When I lived in Tampa Florida there were 2 guys who owned most of the republican commissioners. When a public committee was being formed, the named would be vetted by these two big rolling business men before it came tp a vote. This type of politics disgusts me.
8
We point a finger at other nations for political patronage. Shame on all of us.
6
this is not an issue of a democrat or a republican by rather the question of are we a democracy. This article whether a Clinton or Rubio is about one wealthy influential man buying the soul of a politician, however that bought man protests that he is no bought or in violation of the rules. This article points to the collapse of a democracy. We should all on what ever the side of the party line we stand on...... be crying
4
In the bad old days of watergate, it was said that one of Nixon's fears was that the Dems would find out how much he was on the take from Howard Hughes. Nowadays, Nixon would simply publicize how much he'd been given by Hughes. With the Republican supreme court blessing bribery as a form of free speech, the sky is the limit.
What a lovely country the plutocrats have bought! Plenty of servant material in the good old USA. Hope they enjoy it.
What a lovely country the plutocrats have bought! Plenty of servant material in the good old USA. Hope they enjoy it.
12
Our ex-Governor, Will be spending time in jail for getting favors from one of his constituents, but no where near what Rubio has gotten form Braman. Why is he not in jail. Boy it must be great being a Senator in Florida.
12
The caption for the photo should read: ''Rubio ... poster boy for the fat cats''
8
What, no companion piece on George Soros or the "dead broke" President and Mrs. Stainmaker?
The Times is in the tank for Democrats.
Like subscribers didn't already know.
The Times is in the tank for Democrats.
Like subscribers didn't already know.
Republicans often go to the defense that Soros and Buffet likewise exert influence in a simliar manner.
This is a false equivalency. The billionaires Soros and Buffet do both contribute to Democrat/Progressive candidates and causes. But I am not aware of them founding dozens of think tanks, PACs and SuperPACs to engage in an idealogical shift of the Democrat party, such as the Kochs are doing to the GOP.
This is a false equivalency. The billionaires Soros and Buffet do both contribute to Democrat/Progressive candidates and causes. But I am not aware of them founding dozens of think tanks, PACs and SuperPACs to engage in an idealogical shift of the Democrat party, such as the Kochs are doing to the GOP.
5
So, Norman Braman's puppet is running for President.
8
SO, Norman Braman is trying to buy the White House! What a novel idea and we can only pray is a total waste of his billions of dollars!
5
Every time I hear Rubio speak, the first thought that comes to mind is "sock puppet." Now I know who has their hand up his backside.
14
What especially caught my attention was the job Rubio took at the University for zero pay other than what private donors contributed. What an ingenious money laundering scheme.
11
And don't forget, rubio just turned 43 and the bushco gave him ample time by raising the volunteer recruitment age to 43 as they led the country in abandoning the missions and those sent to accomplish so quickly after 9/11, with flags awavin!! Never once thought, like his bud the cruz who came into congress at 43, that serving the country, along with the extremely few ,would be a calling in the two wars and occupations that not only lasted so long but brought on the growing blowback from those policies set forth!! Both unpaid for as well as the blowback and DeJa-Vu, the continued grossly under funding of the peoples responsibility the VA, decades and wars from, giving the conservatives the political points in arguing to privatize for corporate profits the oft repeated and always media hyped 'scandals'!!
USN All Shore '67-'71 GMG3 Vietnam In Country '70-'71 - Independent**
USN All Shore '67-'71 GMG3 Vietnam In Country '70-'71 - Independent**
2
The funding of political campaigns by the likes of Braman, the Koch brothers, and the wealthy class in general, is fueling a level of cynicism and skepticism that is slowing leading to the end of democracy America. The low participation of the electorate and the distrust of government are being fueled by the knowledge that our votes no longer matter when the discourse is totally being driven by the anti-tax, anti-government, anti-free speech motives of the oligarchs of America.
10
He received excellent service from them (meaning Rubio and his wife). This says it all. Rubio is basically an employee and a servant for this guy. This is exactly why the citizens united ruling was such a terrible ruling. It has been said people get into politics for one of two reasons. either for personal enrichment or to truly make a difference. Its obvious which camp Rubio falls into.
12
Now that the voting public knows whose pocket Rubio is in, dutifully caring through on Braman's requests, they can cross him of the list of those who will have the best interest's of the average voter at heart.
5
Does Rubio realize his presidential aspirations ended on May 9. 2015?? Good riddance. There is not even a pretense here - all corruption out in the open.
12
We need a president who is supportive of our strongest Middle Eastern ally. Someone who won't lose sight of the fact that Israel is the most democratic nation in the region and needs our support because it is surrounded by nations who refuse to recognize its very right to exist.
3
Mr Braman left France for Miami to help pass a law decreasing property taxes and increasing sales taxes. Obviously this law lowers taxes for property owners and increases taxes for people unable to purchase property. Do you think Mr Rubio would be able to oppose a raise in sales taxes ? Of course not.
Assume Isreal bombed Iran without notifying United States, and Iran retaliated by bombing Isreal. Mr Braman asks President Rubio to invade Israel with U.S. Troops. Mr Braman Informs President Rubio if he refuse to send ground troops $500,000,000 will be spent to defeat him in the next election. Can you guess President Rubio decision.
Assume Isreal bombed Iran without notifying United States, and Iran retaliated by bombing Isreal. Mr Braman asks President Rubio to invade Israel with U.S. Troops. Mr Braman Informs President Rubio if he refuse to send ground troops $500,000,000 will be spent to defeat him in the next election. Can you guess President Rubio decision.
3
Braman/Koch 2016
4
If Senator Rubio did anything unethical, criminal or immoral he would have been taken to task by the democratic party who fear him the most.
When that doesn't happen the next best thing is for the democratic supporting media to write articles of insinuation with acrobatic prose and hope the uninformed, ignorant voter will be swayed.
When that doesn't happen the next best thing is for the democratic supporting media to write articles of insinuation with acrobatic prose and hope the uninformed, ignorant voter will be swayed.
2
"He has financed Mr. Rubio’s legislative agenda. And, at the same time, he has subsidized Mr. Rubio’s personal finances, as the rising politician and his wife grappled with heavy debt and big swings in their income."
During the Great Recession, millions of responsible, hard-working Americans suffering from the ravages of the Great Recession also grappled with big swings in their income and assumed heavy debt just to continue paying their mortgage each month. But no billionaires have surfaced to bail them out. To the contrary, many are becoming billionaires by underpaying employees, cutting jobs through shareholder activism to increase short-term, quarterly profits, and through off-shoring and outsourcing. Mr Rubio's friend is the problem, not the solution.
During the Great Recession, millions of responsible, hard-working Americans suffering from the ravages of the Great Recession also grappled with big swings in their income and assumed heavy debt just to continue paying their mortgage each month. But no billionaires have surfaced to bail them out. To the contrary, many are becoming billionaires by underpaying employees, cutting jobs through shareholder activism to increase short-term, quarterly profits, and through off-shoring and outsourcing. Mr Rubio's friend is the problem, not the solution.
9
Congressional and Presidential races remind me of the old joke about the outcome of American/Soviet rivalry to put a man into space using captured German rocket scientists: "Their Germans beat our Germans."
Whether a Republican (Rubio) or a Democrat (Hillary) makes it to the White House some 2016, the explanation will have this same form: Their billionaires beat our billionaires.
Whether a Republican (Rubio) or a Democrat (Hillary) makes it to the White House some 2016, the explanation will have this same form: Their billionaires beat our billionaires.
3
The more that comes out about rich republican backers, the more relieved I am to discover how squeaky clean the republican candidates are compared to Hillary.
1
Rubio had some $$$ problems with the Florida state credit card is that "squeaky"?
1
Is this what the Founders envisaged, every billionaire with his own pet poodle politician, vying for control of the White House by proxy?
17
Yes
It is what we've got, not what was envisaged. I guess we, the 99%, have to play the cards we are dealt.
1
Seriously? Rubio's credit card problems versus the Clintons' millions in questionable donations to their fund? While she was Secretary of State?
Give it up already trying to paint Rubio as corrupt. It's ridiculous.
Give it up already trying to paint Rubio as corrupt. It's ridiculous.
1
For all the crying about Citizens United and the corrupting influence of money in politics (and I agree there's a lot), it doesn't take a lot of looking to find the influence of money throughout the country's history.
"It's a Wonderful Life" has an aide to Mr Potter telling him there's phone call from a Congressman. "Tell the Congressman to wait," Potter says.
Or even "Mr Smith Goes to Washington" where the plot centers around graft to build a dam.
Or Google Thomas Nast and look at the political cartoons from the late 1800s about money in politics.
I remain somewhat hopeful that 65 million voters (Obama's take in 2012) can overcome 65 million dollars, and that articles like this one from NYT can bring the influence of money to light (on both sides).
But mostly, remember that all of Sheldon Adelson's money couldn't buy Newt Gingrich a spot in the White House. And it won't buy a spot for wackos like Cruz, Paul, Santorum or Carson...
as long as we go out AND VOTE.
"It's a Wonderful Life" has an aide to Mr Potter telling him there's phone call from a Congressman. "Tell the Congressman to wait," Potter says.
Or even "Mr Smith Goes to Washington" where the plot centers around graft to build a dam.
Or Google Thomas Nast and look at the political cartoons from the late 1800s about money in politics.
I remain somewhat hopeful that 65 million voters (Obama's take in 2012) can overcome 65 million dollars, and that articles like this one from NYT can bring the influence of money to light (on both sides).
But mostly, remember that all of Sheldon Adelson's money couldn't buy Newt Gingrich a spot in the White House. And it won't buy a spot for wackos like Cruz, Paul, Santorum or Carson...
as long as we go out AND VOTE.
21
I was surprised that Senator Rubio was running for President knowing that if he lost, he lost both the presidency and his Senate seat. Now i see why. He's sure he'll do better than the Senate either way. Thanks, NYTimes
11
This does seem to raise the issue of buying elections. As such it does seem egregious to even allow, whether it's Citizens United, or Norman Braman, to possibly buy one of the most important elections in the world.
This poses a serious crisis, of which we already have many before us. We have the crisis of trust, of parties and politicians polarized beyond civility and collaboration. We have the issue of trust that so called leaders campaign on promises they often don't stay committed to. And now we have the very notion of democracy being one that insists on elections and choices of voters, not of multi-millionaires (sorry that might be multi-billionaires).
Once we have one person or group basically anointing one human being with both power and money, are we really talking about anything resembling democracy. By the people, for the people, of the people. Is that going to amount to one huge donation, without apology? And are we getting used to money buying an election to the extent that our skepticism and cynicism have to increase more than ever?
This poses a serious crisis, of which we already have many before us. We have the crisis of trust, of parties and politicians polarized beyond civility and collaboration. We have the issue of trust that so called leaders campaign on promises they often don't stay committed to. And now we have the very notion of democracy being one that insists on elections and choices of voters, not of multi-millionaires (sorry that might be multi-billionaires).
Once we have one person or group basically anointing one human being with both power and money, are we really talking about anything resembling democracy. By the people, for the people, of the people. Is that going to amount to one huge donation, without apology? And are we getting used to money buying an election to the extent that our skepticism and cynicism have to increase more than ever?
6
"And, at the same time, he has subsidized Mr. Rubio’s personal finances, as the rising politician and his wife grappled with heavy debt and big swings in their income."
So Marco Rubio, an educated Republican, subsists on the handouts of a billionaire. The irony, I'm sure, will be lost on all of his followers clamoring for the end of "handouts" to the poor, the sick and the elderly.
So Marco Rubio, an educated Republican, subsists on the handouts of a billionaire. The irony, I'm sure, will be lost on all of his followers clamoring for the end of "handouts" to the poor, the sick and the elderly.
29
But the poor are "takers" right?!?...
5
He should be named "Pinnochio" Rubio, since he is operated by the string-pulling of others. Be nice if his nose grew when he lied, also.
2
Mr. Braman's allegiance to Israel over the US is disturbing. I could never vote for Mr. Rubio after reading this. Does he realize that he lives in the USA?
17
If we all had a billionaire benefactor, we would not need much of the services of the government. That's the hypocrisy of someone like Marco who would reduce the size of the government's essential services by reducing taxation, but does not recognize we all don't have some big daddy to provide for us.
On the other hand, until a process of bringing capable candidates to the electorate independent of exorbitant financial backing, big money will buy the kind of government that suits their interests and the rest of us will just have to live with it! This is not a democracy when some have a voice proportionate to their bank accounts.
On the other hand, until a process of bringing capable candidates to the electorate independent of exorbitant financial backing, big money will buy the kind of government that suits their interests and the rest of us will just have to live with it! This is not a democracy when some have a voice proportionate to their bank accounts.
14
Senator Rubio did not achieve any of his public roles through his own merits. He has been the purchased protegee of the powerful throughout his whole career to this day. That he also mismanaged his limited personal finances from the beginning, only has made him more vulnerable to being influenced (owned) by people like Mr. Braman.
Sen. Rubio does not represent the interests of the Florida Hispanic communities. He was elected to be Senator because of his handsome face and a blank record which could be promoted to be anything his rich donors wanted. He is running to be the next Dan Qualye.
When Senator Rubio had an opportunity to be a leader in the fight for sensible, enforceable and humane comprehensive immigration reform, he showed himself to lack the courage a national leader requires when he changed his stance because a few radio hosts threatened him. He is not fit to be a candidate for President in 2016.
Sen. Rubio does not represent the interests of the Florida Hispanic communities. He was elected to be Senator because of his handsome face and a blank record which could be promoted to be anything his rich donors wanted. He is running to be the next Dan Qualye.
When Senator Rubio had an opportunity to be a leader in the fight for sensible, enforceable and humane comprehensive immigration reform, he showed himself to lack the courage a national leader requires when he changed his stance because a few radio hosts threatened him. He is not fit to be a candidate for President in 2016.
16
The Bush family must be billionaires???? Anyway, perhaps Braman will spend all his $$ in the primaries. The race of the Titans.....
2
I am shocked, shocked I say, to find that our politicians are for sale. We need to face the fact that we can no longer trust any politico who is not third generation old money and self-funded. Not all of them can be trusted, but only they can be trusted. A sad commentary.
3
How wonderful that Mr.Braman has done so much for the community, medical and research centers. Bravo. By the way, according to wikipedia On March 15, 2011 close to 90% of those that turned out to vote that day in Miami-Dade County, voted to recall the mayor. Note Mr.Braman alone, but apparently the community was ready for a new mayor after 7 years of him. All the candidates, including Hillary have wealthy folks backing them; in some cases wealthy foreign governments.
1
Thanks, mostly, to our beloved and respected and non-political Supreme Court.
Mr. Braman and Rubio seem somewhat open about their relationship. and to keep it well within the law. The article does no suggest that Mr Braman has inappropriately tried to influence public policy through Mr Rubio. But still such relationships between donors and politician should be discouraged/prohibited by law
4
Braman owns Rubio lock stock and barrel. He has him in his pocket. He can ask him to sponsor any legislation he wants. I question that Mr.Braman is a do-gooder without ulterior motives. Else he would not have accumulated his fortune. A cynic.
10
Ick. There's something about this that makes my skin crawl. Doesn't Mr. Rubio have any pride at all? Any grown man, with a family, that has a personal net worth of only $8,351 would be deemed a loser in any arena but politics, I guess. The fact that Mr. Rubio can't seem to take care of his finances any better than he has is pathetic. It's one thing to accept campaign donations, but the fact that Mr. Rubio lets Mr. Breman give him money to live on is disgusting.
12
There is nothing "remarkable" about a billionaire buying a politician. If Braman says "jump" Rubio just asks "how high". Quite frankly the whole scene is disgusting.
13
I'm just going to say it, Marco Rubio is not newsworthy. He doesn't have anymore shot at the presidency than any other random person off the street. Why do we have to elevate these clowns like Ted Cruz, Marco Rubio, and Rand Paul by giving them any press? They don't deserve any and they're nothing more than lobbyist puppets.
12
We can expect that Norman Braman will do for Marco Rubio what he did for the Philadelphia Eagles, and Mr. Rubio will sink quietly tot he bottom of his league.
12
Reading this absolutely makes me sick to my stomach, to think this is what has become of our democracy! When you have billionaires picking out their horse, and they our the ones who run this country, ABSOLUTELY GROSS! nothing good will come from this.......
12
Makes me wonder how Bob McDonnell, former - imprisoned - governor of Virginia, feels.
9
'Tis the season when US billionaires go shopping for their political lap dogs. Those Republicans who successfully suture their lips to the backside of this or that right-wing blowhole like Braman will be able to compete in the death cage TV matches we call campaigns, and one will be "the candidate" in 2016.
He (yes, he) will go up against the entire Clinton money factory. So in 18 months the US will have a new president in a process not once hindered, influenced, or even touched by democracy. The oligarchy will be officially installed in January 2017. "Mission accomplished."
He (yes, he) will go up against the entire Clinton money factory. So in 18 months the US will have a new president in a process not once hindered, influenced, or even touched by democracy. The oligarchy will be officially installed in January 2017. "Mission accomplished."
3
As we know, nobody works at the IRS anymore because the Republicans say they are evil, but how are all these gifts to Mr Rubio being handled? There is still a limit on how much you can gift to an individual each year, as opposed to the Citizens United tsunami of money.
5
Perhaps we should just elect Mr. Braman.
10
Or perhaps we should elect Bernie Sanders who is the only candidate who isn't beholden to big money and who has focused on helping ordinary people.
3
So in other word Marco Rubio has been bought and paid for and this man can call in his debts anytime.
12
I will not be voting for Mr. Rubio for president should he get the Republican nomination.
When asked what makes a great leader, Warren Buffet said: brains, energy and integrity. I believe that’s critical to consider when electing our next leader.
Brains: intelligence, intuition and experience. (If you’re a congressional candidate (Sen or Rep) and haven’t successfully* run a major company, a state (governor) or a major department (governmental), please don’t ask for my vote as experience is significant with me.
Energy: this is a “marathon” position; amateurs need an to apply. Get your experiences first, prove yourself in difficult, decision making positions, and then try. This is not an entry level position for first timers. With all due respect to President Obama’s strong integrity, his lack of experience showed early and often.
Integrity: the most critical component of one’s character. As the face of the United States, what you say, what you stand for, and how you conduct yourself is critical. (We saw how this was lost when Bush and Cheney plowed ahead, in the face of pleas from the UN to hold off invading Iraq as no WMD’s had been found, and attacked that country leading to thousands of American lives lost and the catalyst to the enormous rise of terrorism.) The relationship between Norman Braman and Mr Rubio is a challenge to this integrity issue.
The person I vote for will have passed the above litmus test.
When asked what makes a great leader, Warren Buffet said: brains, energy and integrity. I believe that’s critical to consider when electing our next leader.
Brains: intelligence, intuition and experience. (If you’re a congressional candidate (Sen or Rep) and haven’t successfully* run a major company, a state (governor) or a major department (governmental), please don’t ask for my vote as experience is significant with me.
Energy: this is a “marathon” position; amateurs need an to apply. Get your experiences first, prove yourself in difficult, decision making positions, and then try. This is not an entry level position for first timers. With all due respect to President Obama’s strong integrity, his lack of experience showed early and often.
Integrity: the most critical component of one’s character. As the face of the United States, what you say, what you stand for, and how you conduct yourself is critical. (We saw how this was lost when Bush and Cheney plowed ahead, in the face of pleas from the UN to hold off invading Iraq as no WMD’s had been found, and attacked that country leading to thousands of American lives lost and the catalyst to the enormous rise of terrorism.) The relationship between Norman Braman and Mr Rubio is a challenge to this integrity issue.
The person I vote for will have passed the above litmus test.
44
Love your criteria. Good luck finding a candidate who will conform to them!!
Bernie Sanders??
Bernie Sanders??
In response to the idea of intuition, in Thinking, Fast and Slow by Daniel Kahneman:
"Law of Least Effort: "intuitive" answers to solve problems
Many people are overconfident, prone to place too much faith in their intuitions. They apparently find cognitive effort at least mildly unpleasant and avoid it as much as possible."
"Law of Least Effort: "intuitive" answers to solve problems
Many people are overconfident, prone to place too much faith in their intuitions. They apparently find cognitive effort at least mildly unpleasant and avoid it as much as possible."
1
It is a state of affairs to realize that the next president could be beholding to a Florida car dealer.....
9
Can the Times please publish a rather simple chart with some photos. The title can be "The Real Republican Candidates." The photos and names at the top of each column would be the various Republican billionaires, and below would be the actual person running who's puppet strings they are controlling.
We have here Braman running with Rubio's body; Robert Mercer running through Ted Cruz; etc. There is Sheldon Adelson, the Koch Brothers, and who knows who else who are still running their private little primaries to see where their money will go.
If there were ever a reason to eliminate ALL private money from political campaigns, this is it. The entire process at every level, from dogcatcher to president should be publicly funded.
We have here Braman running with Rubio's body; Robert Mercer running through Ted Cruz; etc. There is Sheldon Adelson, the Koch Brothers, and who knows who else who are still running their private little primaries to see where their money will go.
If there were ever a reason to eliminate ALL private money from political campaigns, this is it. The entire process at every level, from dogcatcher to president should be publicly funded.
9
American Democracy and Politics has become so corrupt that honest people can hardly breath. Our Founders are turning over in their graves. It has become so intolerable, you will soon find ordinary people pouring gasoline on their body and burning themselves in Washington DC as it happened in Tunisia.
5
Raaswany Sarma: Please read the Constitution. It clearly was created to eliminate, Native Americans, women, slaves and most white men without wealth, slaves or an education the right to vote; the latter by leaving it to the states to regulate voting rights.
The Electoral College was installed as a safe guard against the People actually voting in a President (and at the time Vice President) who the rich, educated slave and land owners did not want elected. Most of the rest also has that affect. The so called checks and balances is a way to ensure dysfunction in government when things were not going the way of the 1%. Of course you don't believe that.
Then look at the way government has not functioned since that half black guy got into the White House. look at who is and is not able to control the government by their wealth and power and control.
Remember to vote early and often and vote for the candidate of their
choice.
That is about as good as it will get until and unless Americans rise above the diversions and divisions created by the 1% and act to regain their Nation.
The Electoral College was installed as a safe guard against the People actually voting in a President (and at the time Vice President) who the rich, educated slave and land owners did not want elected. Most of the rest also has that affect. The so called checks and balances is a way to ensure dysfunction in government when things were not going the way of the 1%. Of course you don't believe that.
Then look at the way government has not functioned since that half black guy got into the White House. look at who is and is not able to control the government by their wealth and power and control.
Remember to vote early and often and vote for the candidate of their
choice.
That is about as good as it will get until and unless Americans rise above the diversions and divisions created by the 1% and act to regain their Nation.
1
Oh hum just another politician bought and paid for by the rich, nothing new here. It does make one wonder what Mr Braman expects back for all the money he has invested in Rubio. I am certain it's not given without strings.
2
My favorite part of the report: "There was the daughter of the woman who does his nails, Mr. Braman recalled" ... which reminded me of Sen. Rubio's $134 haircut charged to his GOP credit card.
8
Politics: right up there with polo as the newest sport of the rich. Unfortunately, rather than horses clomping around a field with paid riders aboard, we have toadies in dark suits getting paid to keep the public money machine well oiled for their benefactors.
6
The Left will 'always' show you who they fear the most~*
1
Or not, I guess, in this case.
Norman Braman, "that guy in France?" The union buster from 1987? That Norman Braman? There are not many in the Delaware Valley who have fond memories of him.
So many of these Republicans give truth to the adage that some people are too mean to die.
So many of these Republicans give truth to the adage that some people are too mean to die.
6
The Eagles lost Reggie White because Braman trashed him
1
I hope (but not yet believe) that many politicians understand that this level of influence by the wealthy is NOT healthy for our democracy. I just wish that more of them had the guts to admit it, and to pledge that, if elected, they would work to correct it, to set things right in our democracy. If it requires sponsoring a constitutional amendment, so be it. Whatever it takes. I'm even OK if they need to raise a bundle from billionaires to get elected, as long as they take up the cause.
26
Just another Politician owned by an elist! The Elistist has obviously had this Politiican in his pocket for years. While he hasn't quite owned him Cradel to Grave, - he certainly has seen to it that once Rubio had an interest in Politics, the Elitist wrangled his way to ownership! Poor Rubio, states he never saw the Yacht! Odds on he will see it often if he wins the Nomination.
The Mantra for the Republicans as to the 2016 Presidential Election should be "OH THE TROUBLE WE HAVE CREATED"! They have been far too busy in the creation of fear of a spmewhat Leaderless President as opposed to the Legislating for "We the People"! (And this from a former Life Long Republican)! NO MAS Mr. Rubio!
The Mantra for the Republicans as to the 2016 Presidential Election should be "OH THE TROUBLE WE HAVE CREATED"! They have been far too busy in the creation of fear of a spmewhat Leaderless President as opposed to the Legislating for "We the People"! (And this from a former Life Long Republican)! NO MAS Mr. Rubio!
2
Bought and paid for-rubio should be ashamed or in prison.
7
"Pressed on his financial ties to Mr. Braman, Mr. Rubio said in an interview that he saw no ethical issue. “What is the conflict?” he asked. “I don’t ever recall Norman Braman ever asking for anything for himself.”
I suspect that what we have there is a variation on John Sinclair's famous line about how difficult it is to get a man to understand something, when his salary depends upon not understanding it.
Something to the effect that it is difficult to get a politician to remember something when his ambitions depend upon not recalling.
Really--it is so patently one of those non-denial denials.
"I don't recall it" ain't remotely "It didn't happen."
I suspect that what we have there is a variation on John Sinclair's famous line about how difficult it is to get a man to understand something, when his salary depends upon not understanding it.
Something to the effect that it is difficult to get a politician to remember something when his ambitions depend upon not recalling.
Really--it is so patently one of those non-denial denials.
"I don't recall it" ain't remotely "It didn't happen."
2
Rubio is ambitious, bright, charming, articulate, and 1000% a career politician. His political rise in South Florida/Miami is nothing short of meteoric.
Out of the Law School at U of M in 1996, cum laude, a stint on the city commission in West Miami and then election to the state legislature in 2000. House Majority Leader in 2002, Speaker of the House in 2003.
The beat goes on, in 2010, then state representative Rubio becomes United States Senator Rubio.
Obviously billionaire Braman, a staunch Republican and long time political mover and shaker in Miami, knows a great prospect when he sees one.
All of this may be as pure as the new driven snow. Then again, snow in Miami?
Out of the Law School at U of M in 1996, cum laude, a stint on the city commission in West Miami and then election to the state legislature in 2000. House Majority Leader in 2002, Speaker of the House in 2003.
The beat goes on, in 2010, then state representative Rubio becomes United States Senator Rubio.
Obviously billionaire Braman, a staunch Republican and long time political mover and shaker in Miami, knows a great prospect when he sees one.
All of this may be as pure as the new driven snow. Then again, snow in Miami?
3
Good Morning: Mr. Rubio claims that "I don’t ever recall Norman Braman ever asking for anything for himself.” Without sarcasm, snark or facetiousness, I sincerely ask: doesn't steering money to Mr. Braman's favorite causes--however noble--mean the same thing as steering money to Mr. Braman himself?
3
Although this article indicates a close relationship that seems to be aboveboard, If you read it closely Mr. Braman's views on government are a concern. He supports research and private giving but dislikes government that includes research. He has no experience with government and apparently has not studied it. Part of our nations problems is peoples focus on themselves and no care for others. This is more evident with those with large funds.
4
The picture could not be more effective - for the purpose involved here.
4
I'm wondering about the large amount of debt that Rubio and his wife signed on for. Not too smart. Of course if one can become a lackey to a billionaire the debt problem is solved.
5
Sounds like Rubio is the long lost son Braman never had. One thing is for sure - all the kings BMWs, Bugattis, Bentleys horses, and men will not put Rubio in the White House now or ever again. Nothing in America like a Citizen, United in his determination to buy the presidency.
4
This man has been sending me thank you emails for supporting him .
I'm not a registered voter , i live in florida where individual votes don't count .
I have asked 11 times to be taken off any of his mailing lists .
I now reply with GO HILLARY
I'm not a registered voter , i live in florida where individual votes don't count .
I have asked 11 times to be taken off any of his mailing lists .
I now reply with GO HILLARY
4
Thanks to some hopelessly bad decisions of the US SUPREME COURT, our political system has been diminished to the point where our government is no longer answerable to the electorate but rather a small clique of special interest groups and mega rich who are now in a position to dictate policy to the "politicians of their choice". It's a sad and sorry affair and what's to be done about it? Does The New York Times....do YOU as a reader really think that the political will exists to propose and pass a Constitutional Amendment which would seek to undo this disaster? I think it's more likely that you'll find Vladimir Putin leading a Gay Rights Parade in downtown Moscow....
5
I'll bet the US Supreme Court didn't think about the implications of Citizens United on giving unprecedented power to individuals who might have a religious, financial or emotional attachment to a foreign country and then contribute in the expectation of certain action. If a foreign power were emboldened by knowing they had the president "in the bag," their foreign policy could be more reckless. Israel is a foreign country whose interests intersect and diverge from US interests. I want a president who is looking out for US interests.
3
SCOTUS and Republican politicians consistently fight against higher taxes, political campaign finance reform, regulation, and any attempt to implement and enforce ethical codes.
"Didn't think about..." I strongly disagree. Didn't care about, is much more like it, or perhaps more accurately, thought about and liked what they saw.
"Didn't think about..." I strongly disagree. Didn't care about, is much more like it, or perhaps more accurately, thought about and liked what they saw.
On the positive side, this article will put Rubio in the dust bin of history. This is explosive stuff and will resonate with the public, at large, when the rest of the media look in the mirror. Our uninformed and uneducated electorate does have an IQ breaking point and this information will turn on enough light bulbs to doom Rubio's career. This is part of the beginning of the end of Citizens United.
4
This story highlights the problems with campaign finance laws (Citizens United), income/wealth inequality (the extraordinary power the wealthy have) and low taxes on the rich (way too much money looking for things to buy).
1
Rubio is bought and paid for obviously. Since he specifically lied about his parents fleeing Castro in 1959, which has been debunked for some time now, why should he be believed on anything else?
7
The payment is straight; the reward is quick. Are they so emboldened by the current corrupt political state that they didn't even deign to pretend decency?
3
As long as Rubio is denied access to Braman's yacht I see no problem.
9
So one dimensional when a billionaire focuses only on helping himself and other billionaires like him. One dimensional and tragic.
3
If I were a billionaire in the market for a politician, would I want one who is smarter than me? For that, the Republicans offer a stunning lineup.
2
"He returned home and led a successful campaign to block the [tax] increase." ...Because god knows you don't need roads to sell cars.
5
The new "Gilded Age." Yet another Republican billionaire who is never satisfied with what he has.
1
"As Mr. Rubio has ascended in the ranks of Republican politics, Mr. Braman has emerged as a remarkable and unique patron. He has bankrolled Mr. Rubio’s campaigns." Ascended in the GOP ranks? Where? When? He's a media creation. Let him capture 35% in Iowa or N. Hampshire primaries/caucus, or in the newly GOP arranged super tuesday thereafter. LOL. Rubio is GOP electoral fodder hustling OPM.
2
I'm far from decided about whom to cast my vote but doesn't matter. I'm sickened that Rubio is so indebted, a sad commentary not on the candidate, but how the game is rigged. You cannot run for office unless you've got backing from a rich guy or PAC. No wonder people don't vote, the outcome is decided. WE so badly need campaign finance reform and term limits or nothing will change. The "little people" will continue having no electoral impact.
3
A politician is given suggested readings by a mentor who also funds him. This seems the smoking gun proving wrong the Citizens United ruling suggesting money is merely free speech. It is bought speech. SCOTUS was wrong. This proves it.
2
The first thing that came to mind after reading this article was our former Governor of Virginia - Bob McDonnell, but it sounds like the Rubios have received much more from Braman then the McDonnell's ever received from Williams.
4
I realize that this poor man is just trying to get ahead, but what the heck is he doing with two mortgages! This is exactly the sort of extravagant, reckless spending and accumulation of debt that is ruining Mr. Rubio and the rest of our underclass. I appreciate and am gladdened that he is being mentored by such an upstanding, obviously morally upright, oligarch as Mr. Braman, who clearly knows the value of a dollar. I wish him the best in saving Mr. Rubio from himself and his inability to control his own impulses. Maybe someday he will be able to save Mr. Rubio from himself, but for now we do not need a man such as Mr. Rubio in charge of our nation's finances.
Freedom!!!
Freedom!!!
72
Braman, an ardent commitment to Israel, says it all. AKA Israel first than USA
4
What's wrong with standing up for or supporting Israel? No where does this article imply that Braman puts Israel before the USA.
This is precisely why the tax system should be more progressive with higher rates for top income tiers. For one man to have this much influence just because of his money is against the principles the country was founded on. And yes, Citizens United as well as all the other campaign finance shenanigans need to be repealed. Otherwise our govrenment will be ineffective for the vast majority of citizens, and susceptible to revolution.
2
OLIGARCY TO THE MAX! THis country has been sold out to the highest bidders. We all should be ashamed and scared for our future generations. at least those people in the future generations that are not born into wealth or have the abilities to create their own wealth. it is no surprise why our middle class has been shrinking for the last 30 years and the poor have been increasing exponentially...Sad so sad.
5
Wow! Little Orphan Marco. How inspiring.
8
Marco Rubio--a self-made man from a struggling immigrant family? Hardly! He sounds more like a charity case.
5
If Norman Braman or any billionaire were giving Hillary money we would see nothing but praise.
2
Don.
Maybe you are correct.
But the issue is not Rubio or Clinton. The issue is the demise of the few remaining remnants of the disguise that America is a moral, ethical, democratic, fair, equitable or equal country in regard to a country run by a government of, by and for the People.
As the slow unveiling of a government bought and sold with the candidate being nothing more than the latest model of black slave and all color worker wage slave.
But the new welfare recipient is proud of his collection of secret wealth done at the public's expense and the Nation's democratic health.
All that is known at this point is that the money drop box and money envelop exchanges are not reported to be on or near da master's boat.
Maybe you are correct.
But the issue is not Rubio or Clinton. The issue is the demise of the few remaining remnants of the disguise that America is a moral, ethical, democratic, fair, equitable or equal country in regard to a country run by a government of, by and for the People.
As the slow unveiling of a government bought and sold with the candidate being nothing more than the latest model of black slave and all color worker wage slave.
But the new welfare recipient is proud of his collection of secret wealth done at the public's expense and the Nation's democratic health.
All that is known at this point is that the money drop box and money envelop exchanges are not reported to be on or near da master's boat.
Rubio's political positions have always been for sale to the highest bidder. He was for immigration reform until big money said he can't do it. It took him 48 hours to switch his position and scrap his plans for immigration reform. He has done nothing as a Senator, except attack Obama and keep our government in grid lock.
3
Yet another example of why we need campaign finance reform for all parties. This issue needs to be on popular vote ballot questions to bypass our ineffective elected officials. I favor equal sums of money given to candidates who demonstrate enough support (via signatures) to help drown out the "rich vote" and get candidates to really work for the "common vote".
3
The root of the problem is campaign finance. As long as the current practices of seeking donors are legal, EVERY candidate, Republican or democrat, will be at the mercy of billionaires and millionaires. The only ones that can be relatively "free," ironically, might be those who are billionaires themselves, and they will stick with policies that favor those people just the same.
Why can't the U.S. be more like, say, Germany, where every candidate get the same amount of campaign money from the state and private donations are strictly forbidden? Moving to such a direction would be the only way to mitigate the alliance of money and power in this country, which is also crucial for mitigating the worst problem this society faces at a whole: the increasing income gap between the super rich and everyone else.
Why can't the U.S. be more like, say, Germany, where every candidate get the same amount of campaign money from the state and private donations are strictly forbidden? Moving to such a direction would be the only way to mitigate the alliance of money and power in this country, which is also crucial for mitigating the worst problem this society faces at a whole: the increasing income gap between the super rich and everyone else.
2
Let's compare Marco with Hillary, shall we?
Marci steered money-as a favor to his major donor-to cancer research.
While Hillary's Billionaires got her to sell out 50% of the country's Uranium to Russia! and even then the Clinton Crime Machine paid only 12% of what it took in. Billary banked the rest.
Please. find another politician who made 140 million or so-after being "dead broke"!
Al Gore, for another. Hmm both Democrats... Do I see a pattern here?
If it doesn't fit, you must acquit-Rubio
Marci steered money-as a favor to his major donor-to cancer research.
While Hillary's Billionaires got her to sell out 50% of the country's Uranium to Russia! and even then the Clinton Crime Machine paid only 12% of what it took in. Billary banked the rest.
Please. find another politician who made 140 million or so-after being "dead broke"!
Al Gore, for another. Hmm both Democrats... Do I see a pattern here?
If it doesn't fit, you must acquit-Rubio
3
An earlier commenter raised an interesting question regarding Mr. Braman's stepping in to help settle some of the Rubios' outstanding debts: Why did Rubio need this help?
This prompts a follow-up question: Why should we as voters be asked to consider as presidential material anyone who cannot better manage his or her own affairs?
This prompts a follow-up question: Why should we as voters be asked to consider as presidential material anyone who cannot better manage his or her own affairs?
5
Rubio, another Pol ready to fight to the last American for Israel
4
When someone ''subsidised '' a politician's PERSONAL finances, that used to be considered BRIBERY, was it not?
3
These billionaires are too emboldened. They audaciously and explicitly eviscerate our democracy now, before our very eyes.
Such brashness shows what they think of the US citizenry. To them, we are pathetic, selfish, brainwashed and manipulable. However, people are getting angry about such flagrant hubris. Our sense of dignity and moral righteousness will prevail in the end.
How dare they.
Such brashness shows what they think of the US citizenry. To them, we are pathetic, selfish, brainwashed and manipulable. However, people are getting angry about such flagrant hubris. Our sense of dignity and moral righteousness will prevail in the end.
How dare they.
1
It used to be that politicians in this country were guided by the founding fathers. Now they are guided by their funding fathers.
8
What's amazing about this story is that there is absolutely nothing amazing about it.
This is the way American “public servants” — from dog catchers to judges to the President — are "elected" in this country.
Which is why, as an ordinary citizen, I no longer participate in the farce that is voting, nor contribute to political campaigns.
This is the way American “public servants” — from dog catchers to judges to the President — are "elected" in this country.
Which is why, as an ordinary citizen, I no longer participate in the farce that is voting, nor contribute to political campaigns.
1
There is real dissonance between the caption of the photograph accompanying this article, with its reference to Mr Rubio's position on Israel, and the text of the article. What are we not being told?
1
Why not get Bill Gates behind you ? Enough with these light weight billionaires , go for the brass ring . Lets see, what can I offer Bill ?
No wonder Rubio is smiling the "a possum eating a sweet potato" in that picture, as the man said.
I'm rooting for Bernie Sanders.
I'm rooting for Bernie Sanders.
6
Let's see:
Marco Rubio received hundreds of thousands of dollars from an individual, and worked on legislation to provide state funding for a cancer center partially financed by this individual. The cancer center bears the individual's name.
Hillary Clinton (and Bill, of course, as we always get two-for-one) receives hundreds of thousands of dollars for each speech they give to audiences across the world, including several financed by Russian billionaires. Her State Department signed off on a deal allowing a Russian billionaire and Mother Russia to acquire a large portion of the United States' uranium mining assets. Uranium causes cancers. The influence-peddling centers and initiatives gathering the funds for all speeches bears the Clinton name.
Bestowing the Presidential nod on Mrs. Clinton would be a cancer revisited on the White House - one of actions at best dubious, at worst (and probably most realistically) illegal and/or ethically just plain yucky.
Marco Rubio received hundreds of thousands of dollars from an individual, and worked on legislation to provide state funding for a cancer center partially financed by this individual. The cancer center bears the individual's name.
Hillary Clinton (and Bill, of course, as we always get two-for-one) receives hundreds of thousands of dollars for each speech they give to audiences across the world, including several financed by Russian billionaires. Her State Department signed off on a deal allowing a Russian billionaire and Mother Russia to acquire a large portion of the United States' uranium mining assets. Uranium causes cancers. The influence-peddling centers and initiatives gathering the funds for all speeches bears the Clinton name.
Bestowing the Presidential nod on Mrs. Clinton would be a cancer revisited on the White House - one of actions at best dubious, at worst (and probably most realistically) illegal and/or ethically just plain yucky.
3
Indeed. It also helps to think about the Braman/Rubio relationship in the context of some other relationships that are an indelible part of the American political landscape. To wit: the relationship between public sector unions and the Democrat party, the relationship between enviro special interest groups and the Democrat party, and of course, there's a pretty long list of billionaires and millionaires who bankroll Democrats.
So let's elect Bernie Sanders.
1
Braman-Rubio, America's quintessential political future; in former days the word was Plutocracy. Money strangles democracy. Even academic appointments can be bought. Veritably, a marriage made in heaven, smiling face of the Far Right. Can neo-fascism be far behind?
5
Everyone should have their own Senator. Unfortunately most Americans don't have one at all. No Senator knows their name, the look of their face or what they care about. No Senator cares about them in the least. Even at voting time gerrymandering has tipped the scales so voters just don't matter.
Few Americans can afford a Senator. How nice to see someone who can own one of his own. His will be done.
Few Americans can afford a Senator. How nice to see someone who can own one of his own. His will be done.
156
One reminder: Senate seats are not gerrymandered. Thankfully, every voter gets to vote for each senator in the state.
Maybe the American people are shopping in the wrong places for their Senators? We haven't had much of a stock to pick from in Arizona for years....
I think Jeff Merkley from OR is with the regular folks. Then there's Bernie Sanders.....and Elizabeth Warrnen....
1
There we go again! Is this the beginning of a Cuban Mafia or what? Just be aware American voters. Economic power overcomes political freedom and decision making of favor of the financial patron
6
Another candidate, another oligarch.
For some reason Bernie Sanders doesn't seem to have any oligarchs supporting him. Which is precisely why I am.
For some reason Bernie Sanders doesn't seem to have any oligarchs supporting him. Which is precisely why I am.
17
Does Marco have a foundation? Is Marco taking money from foreign governments by having his wife make speeches where the foreign government pays $500,000 per speech to listen to what she has to say?
8
No, all poor Marco has is a sugar daddy and the strings that are attached to the Republican elders. This means he lives in comfort while saying whatever the grown ups tell him to say.
1
Yes he has the Marco Rubio Foundation, it is a personal welfare program sponsored by Braman. If the man cannot mange his personal finances without running to daddy he shouldn't be running the US.
1
The very fact that all an investigative powerhouse like the New York Times can come up with on Rubio is that he has a wealthy sponsor speaks volumes about how weak this soup really is. The implication here clearly is that Marco Rubio = Bob Menendez. But the Times can't back up the implication with facts.
When are we going to get some serious investigative journalism on the Clinton Foundation, comprehensively matching donations to favors, by Bill AND by Hillary, and by Hillary while she was an important U.S. senator and U.S. Sec. of State?
When are we going to get some serious investigative journalism on the Clinton Foundation, comprehensively matching donations to favors, by Bill AND by Hillary, and by Hillary while she was an important U.S. senator and U.S. Sec. of State?
8
I have no problem with a demand for transparency regarding the Clinton Foundation. At the same time, even if you think your man Rubio comes out of this article smelling like a rose, does this article not demonstrate with facts the power concentrated in the hands of the wealthy in this nation? Multibillionaires having the power to get people elected, get them recalled, have legislation written and pulled-- you support this?
3
The NYT has an agreement with the author of "Clinton Cash" to publish exclusives from his book. Please stop with this canard about the NYT covering up for Hilary.
2
Democrats don't require integrity in their own candidates. They hold only republicans to these high standards.
This is how Rubio's association with a rich backer is elevated to the same newsworthiness as Hillary's trail of contributions and outcomes, which, by the way, earned Menendez an indictment.
This is how Rubio's association with a rich backer is elevated to the same newsworthiness as Hillary's trail of contributions and outcomes, which, by the way, earned Menendez an indictment.
3
Can I get one? I want a billionaire, I want a billionaire! What do you mean, no? I'm just going to stand in the street and scream until I get one. Wahhhhhhh!!!
12
I'm sick and tired of hearing about he "founding fathers" as paragons of virtue, candor and devotees of democracy. Horse-hockey! Do the research.
We are what we are because of money, on account of money and the result of money. If you want to believe in truth, justice and the American Way, read Little Red Riding Hood or some other fairy tale.
We are what we are because of money, on account of money and the result of money. If you want to believe in truth, justice and the American Way, read Little Red Riding Hood or some other fairy tale.
3
Is it any wonder that people (who aren't billionaires) have stopped voting.
18
Bernie Sanders is looking better by the day.
33
Once we just thought this was the harmless arrogance of wealth. The thought that their wealth conveyed on them the automatic wisdom to rule. This has become a 21st century perversion of the "Philosopher Kings" of ancient Greece. But as we watch, especially amongst Republicans, this is starting to have real consequences - especially after Citizen's United. Well, in the end, we will get the government we deserve won't we.
91
This is nothing new--see Frank Capra's "Meet John Doe" (1941).
"Especially amongst Republicans"? This story could have been expanded to include ALL of the candidates on either side. Partisan outcries are simple minded ones.
1
Bill Clinton's 'mentor' was a Racist US Senator. Hillary's 'political 'mentor' was/is billionaire George Soros - who funded Media Matters which heavily promoted Hillary's first presidential campaign; as well as many other left-wing groups which have prominently promoted Hillary's disastrous political career.
10
The difference is, of course, that George Soros didn't take either Clinton under his wing and subsidize their lifestyles or political campaigns while dictating their political philosophies to them. Nor has Hillary's political career been a "disaster" by any realistic measure, no matter how that career is deliberately mischaracterized by Republicans.
1
In an interview with Jonathan Karl on ABC’s This Week, Marco Rubio sung sweetly for his chief puppeteer:
"I do not believe that human activity is causing these dramatic changes to our climate the way these scientists are portraying it and I do not believe that the laws that they propose we pass will do anything about it. Except it will destroy our economy."
"I do not believe that human activity is causing these dramatic changes to our climate the way these scientists are portraying it and I do not believe that the laws that they propose we pass will do anything about it. Except it will destroy our economy."
16
A Plutocrat and his Valet work non-stop to join the Oligarchy.
12
Wow......he has his own billionaire! How cute and disgusting.
16
Rubio, that great American success story, is bought, paid for and owned. He hasn't and can't make a living but for Braman and he can't do a thing of any importance without making sure that Braman will let him -- and that would include whatever he would do in the White House.
So much for Marco Rubio, a complete and utter fraud as it turns out.
So much for Marco Rubio, a complete and utter fraud as it turns out.
34
Some of the favors provided to Senator Rubio by his billionaire friend sound very similar to the favors for which that Senator Menendez is under indictment. I guess what matters is what is Rubio doing for his friend.
As politicans go, Rubio strikes as being toward the honest end of the spectrum. I still hate his politics.
As politicans go, Rubio strikes as being toward the honest end of the spectrum. I still hate his politics.
4
I'd like to know why anyone gets away with interpreting "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion" as anything other than a blanket ban on faith based legislation. To interpret it otherwise shows bias.
7
I read this article and the first thought was it is the media and politics of this country that is constantly trying to find so much negative in people in politics. I personally see nothing wrong with what Mr Braman is doing. Why? Because if you have the money and want to give back in a way that not only touches your heart, as it did with Mr Braman, a son of an immigrant, then WHY react in a negative way. I remember when Mr Braman was in Philadelphia and would see him in AC. He was always a gentleman. He earned his money and it is his choice to give back in ways he would like to do so. It is always for the good. Cancer Center, a person he believes in, and what ever else he sees fit. What is so terrible paying it forward. Maybe if others did that in ways that they could, large or small, the world would be a bet place. Thank you Mr Braman for you helping others the way you see fit. I try to do that each day I wake up and start my day. Good luck to all
7
Hi CT, its because they are buying the goverance of the rest of us and distorting what is supposed to be government for the People, not for the rich and not for just business, its meant to represent those of us that cannot buy their favor. So yes its lovely that he is big hearted, but not that HE can choose our politicians.
1
I think I'll buy me a president. Between the Koch brothers and now Mr. Braman, it is about as powerful a move as one can make.
16
Bought and paid for. Like so many politicians today. That's the main difference between today's politicians and the founders. They were already rich and powerful.
13
Braman has made a fortune selling luxury cars to the foreign buyers (most locals do not purchase at his dealership) in Miami. As far as voters in Miami, these two are becoming more and more toxic on a local level. Rubio would not carry his hometown, or his home State in a Presidential election. He did not win a majority in 2010 when he was elected as a Senate, and his popularity in Florida as a Senator has been in decline. As a Florida resident, I join many others who have been asking who he has been representing over the past 5 years other than his own self serving ambitions.
18
I believe that Hillary's billionaires will stifle Rubio's man.
7
The puppet master, sugar daddy, Braman won't just get his phone calls answered. No, he will dictate policy. What a stupid corrupt country. We can blame the corrupt Supreme Court for this corruption of our electoral process. How shameful to have simply handed the government over to oligarchs?
60
And who appoints the Supreme Court jurists? Politicians who were bought and paid for. They are all in it together.
1
Nothing in this article even suggests that there are quid-pro-quos other than a common philosophy in supporting causes which most people - including most Democrats -- believe government should support. So I am not sure what the point of the article is, except to smear Rubio by innuendo.
Rubio is not, and have never been, a rich man. When he has money, he used it to fill his gas tank to travel to another speech to promote his brand of Americanism. If we really want non-millionaires to be able to serve in public office, then we should applaud Rubio for staying true to his values -- even, as the article notes, turning down a request from a large donor.
Rubio is not, and have never been, a rich man. When he has money, he used it to fill his gas tank to travel to another speech to promote his brand of Americanism. If we really want non-millionaires to be able to serve in public office, then we should applaud Rubio for staying true to his values -- even, as the article notes, turning down a request from a large donor.
8
That's right....."brand" of Americanism. Just like selling a shiny new car.
1
The point is that braman gets what he wants. He doesn't want higher taxes and Im sure Rubio will accomodate him even if taxes shuld be raised. Rubio is completely bought and paid for.
2
There NEVER ARE quid pro quos, where bribery is concerned, lest the participants wind up in JAIL. Just ask that other pillar of rectitude Sen. Menendez. His interest in the Dominican Republic was strictly hispanic solidarity.
You can do it boy. I will back you. It will be hard work and fun. We will make it. Of course I will be your private adviser and close ally in all things. I cwill shape you in ways you can not even imagine. And of course you do not owe me a thing. It's ALL A "House Of Cards".
11
Such a lovely portrait of Marco Rubio and his billionaire owner. I would like to see the Times run photos of every Presidential candidate posing alongside their billionaire owners. We could collect them all, like baseball cards.
58
And what billionaire do you want to work for? Pick you anointed one.
I guess it's the end of America that the founding fathers were fighting for, back to a serf and fiefdom land. Oh well, maybe it's time. Give the people what they want.
We're now going to have as our King, a used car salesman? OK, bring it on. Guess it's time. :-)
I guess it's the end of America that the founding fathers were fighting for, back to a serf and fiefdom land. Oh well, maybe it's time. Give the people what they want.
We're now going to have as our King, a used car salesman? OK, bring it on. Guess it's time. :-)
11
No surprises here. Another Republican with a sugar daddy. At least I like this guy better than the Koch brothers. His paybacks seem to have some public benefit other than enriching himself. Unfortunately, it does bring into stark relief just how much our political system is bought and sold by the uber rich. My problem with Rubio are his policies, and not the fact that he is a wholly owned subsidiary of some rich guy.
16
Republican billionaire political meddlers sure have a penchant for not
recognizing 'presidential timber'.
recognizing 'presidential timber'.
16
But that's the whole point! If a candidate could truly think for himself or herself, and had a moral compass, they would spurn someone trying to do thinking for them.
1
Life's just a cabaret, my friend. . .
3
For those who wish to comment negatively regarding Mr. Rubio, that's fine. However, please keep in mind Mr. George Soros (multi-billionaire) will also quite likely be funding Mrs. Clinton's campaign (maybe not personally handing her a check but certainly giving to PAC or Super PAC). The bottom line is there's going to be a lot of money thrown at the leading candidates. Let's see if you all, and the NYT, will do similar pieces on the leading democrat.
10
George Soros actually said(!) he wanted to make George Bush a one-term president and spent a lot of money trying to defeat him.
Not a drop of outrage from The Times or anyone else.
Not a drop of outrage from The Times or anyone else.
11
Not quite as bad as a group of elected officials meeting on Capitol Hill on 1/20/2009, actually vowing to do everything possible to make sure President Obama was a one term President. Where's your outrage over that!
1
Please name any harm that Soros has done to the American people.
AACNY - Those of us who had family and friends fighting G.W.'s wars also wanted him to be a one term President. A lot of lives would have been saved if that had happened.
AACNY - Those of us who had family and friends fighting G.W.'s wars also wanted him to be a one term President. A lot of lives would have been saved if that had happened.
1
So Rubio says that this billionaire has not used his money for selfish purposes! But he certainly knows how to throw his money away if he things he is betting on winner. Rubio is simply a little boy trying to be a big boy. He doesn't have now , nor will he ever, what it takes to be President of any country.
18
How disgusting. How expected.
11
I can't believe Rubio has any chance at gathering the teaparty conservatives to his banner. He is too inexperienced in elected office to be acceptable to the demographic that harassed and denigrated then candidate Obama for his lack of experience in elected office...
4
Rubio has the use of Braman money. All he needs now is some crooked help to get out the vote, like Obama did using crooked ACORN workers.
So this guy has been paying secret subsidies for years to Rubio for god's knows what motives and this is okay.
11
"Mr. Braman, himself the son of immigrants, was instantly drawn to the story of Mr. Rubio, a child of struggling Cuban refugees"-article.
Sen. Rubio's parents came to the States for economic opportunity before Castro came to power. I think the term "refugee," may be rather inappropriate and misleading.
Sen. Rubio's parents came to the States for economic opportunity before Castro came to power. I think the term "refugee," may be rather inappropriate and misleading.
71
and self-serving.
2
@Arthur
It is similar to the assertion made by Elizabeth Warren, attempting to secure Harvard tenure, that she is a Native American. I hope she will be forced to defend that on a national stage some day.
Bill Clinton is from a town called Hope. Barack Obama is an ordinary guy. Oh, wait, he attended a Christian-founded school in Hawaii on a scholarship.
We all paper over and tweak the things that make us more or less appealing...particularly in politics.
It is similar to the assertion made by Elizabeth Warren, attempting to secure Harvard tenure, that she is a Native American. I hope she will be forced to defend that on a national stage some day.
Bill Clinton is from a town called Hope. Barack Obama is an ordinary guy. Oh, wait, he attended a Christian-founded school in Hawaii on a scholarship.
We all paper over and tweak the things that make us more or less appealing...particularly in politics.
1
Who is Norman Braman? This article does not address nor discuss his
background. Go to Wikipedia and find out Braman has been wheeling and
dealing all his life. He came from nothing to the exalted status of
an American billionaire. He owned the Philadelphia Eagles and had
numerous business successes. Today he is in the car business as some
writers have stated. Obviously, a political run takes time, money, and brains
so Braman fits the bill. Stop! Isn't Obama being advised by Al Sharpton?
background. Go to Wikipedia and find out Braman has been wheeling and
dealing all his life. He came from nothing to the exalted status of
an American billionaire. He owned the Philadelphia Eagles and had
numerous business successes. Today he is in the car business as some
writers have stated. Obviously, a political run takes time, money, and brains
so Braman fits the bill. Stop! Isn't Obama being advised by Al Sharpton?
9
Obama's past was littered with controversial figures like Ayers. Look at Clinton's controversial connections.
The worst The Times can come up with when it comes to republicans is...rich people.
The worst The Times can come up with when it comes to republicans is...rich people.
9
@ AACNY
One again you demonstrate your double standards which are very typical of Republican zealots. The NYT has reported extensively on Clinton's connections (you yourself have fulminated on the topic) but when it comes to secret donations to Republicans by billionaires (most of the major Republican candidates seem to have these billionaire connections) this is off limits because the Republicans are rich. Well of course they're rich. How else would they be able to afford a tame politician like Rubio?
One again you demonstrate your double standards which are very typical of Republican zealots. The NYT has reported extensively on Clinton's connections (you yourself have fulminated on the topic) but when it comes to secret donations to Republicans by billionaires (most of the major Republican candidates seem to have these billionaire connections) this is off limits because the Republicans are rich. Well of course they're rich. How else would they be able to afford a tame politician like Rubio?
10
John:
The Times has only scratched the surface of the Clinton Foundation's connections. And now it will likely drop it. The Times isn't going to do anything that jeopardizes an election and risks handing it to republicans.
Were she a republican, we'd have likely seen front page articles continuing and deep digging until charges were brought. (Of course, no one expects this Administration to bring charges either.)
Billionaire "connections", on the other hand, now that's something The Times can safely write about.
The Times has only scratched the surface of the Clinton Foundation's connections. And now it will likely drop it. The Times isn't going to do anything that jeopardizes an election and risks handing it to republicans.
Were she a republican, we'd have likely seen front page articles continuing and deep digging until charges were brought. (Of course, no one expects this Administration to bring charges either.)
Billionaire "connections", on the other hand, now that's something The Times can safely write about.
2
An ideal supporter as the auto dealer can easily provide Marco Rubio with a free tune-up on his immigration policies.
3
I like the bipartisan nature of all these billionaire donors. They hire Republican or Democratic clients only if they support a bunch of extreme rightwing Likud politicians in Israel.
38
The US Congress = FOR SALE. I can easily understand why truly qualified and decent individuals hesitate to run for public office. It must be very rough on one's lips to have to kiss so many behinds.
47
Scary, we have crossed over a divide. The real consequences still to come. Who could have imagined the first year I voted for President that one day a car dealer would prominently expect to hand pick the next president. As we Citizens steadily lost our capacity to Unite in the face of such funding.
36
How's that old saying go? The one about fools, money and soon parted...
5
Frankly, the way we all intuit how things in real politics play out, this sounds like some sweet delightful and innocent kindegardenish behavior. Would we not all be immensely grateful if this reflected the mother of all misbehaviors? How much can you eat the cake and have it too?
2
A man of questionable ethics supporting a man of questionable ethics, but one a sugar daddy!
Welcome to the World of Citizens United!
Thanks Robert!
Welcome to the World of Citizens United!
Thanks Robert!
39
Remind me again why Bernie Sanders doesn't have a chance?
35
Bought and paid for! This kind of relationship represents everything that is wrong with politics today... (not that it's a new phenomenon by any means).
23
Using the lead story front page to counter all the negative publicity regarding the Clinton Foundation the Times stretches the point comparing the largesse of a local Miami car dealer to the mega corporations and nations that gave to the Clintons to curry favor with the Department of State.
The parallel is so far fetched The Times was obviously desperate to counter the negative Clinton stories.
The parallel is so far fetched The Times was obviously desperate to counter the negative Clinton stories.
9
You need to read more. NYT is well aware of the Clinton Foundation super pac.
The New York Times reports: “Her decision is another escalation in what is expected to be the most expensive presidential race in history, and it has the potential to transform the balance of power in presidential campaigning, where Republican outside groups have tended to outspend their Democratic counterparts.”
The New York Times reports: “Her decision is another escalation in what is expected to be the most expensive presidential race in history, and it has the potential to transform the balance of power in presidential campaigning, where Republican outside groups have tended to outspend their Democratic counterparts.”
I didn't realize Rubio was a charitable organization.
4
the NYT has already written the editorial endorsing HClinton.
The big problem is his political views. All the rest is made up outrage. If he were another Soros, it would be fine.
Republicans cannot win when it comes to the very wealthy spending money to promote their views. One dollar is too much for people who hate what they represent.
Evidence: The Clinton Global Fondation. There we absolutely must have a "smoking gun"; otherwise, nothing to see there. Move along.
Republicans cannot win when it comes to the very wealthy spending money to promote their views. One dollar is too much for people who hate what they represent.
Evidence: The Clinton Global Fondation. There we absolutely must have a "smoking gun"; otherwise, nothing to see there. Move along.
8
I keep asking people to enumerate what Soros has done that harms anyone and no Republican has ever answered but I'll ask again.
1
DR:
Soros actually said he wanted to make President Bush a one-term president and was willing to spend heavily to infuence our election to achieve this goal.
These are not usually actions or sentiments that the left tolerates when engaged in by anyone on the right, especially when they are billionaires in his profession with his questionable reputation.
Soros is the poster child for the left's hypocrisy on campaign influence. It has no problem with any individual who furthers its goals.
Soros actually said he wanted to make President Bush a one-term president and was willing to spend heavily to infuence our election to achieve this goal.
These are not usually actions or sentiments that the left tolerates when engaged in by anyone on the right, especially when they are billionaires in his profession with his questionable reputation.
Soros is the poster child for the left's hypocrisy on campaign influence. It has no problem with any individual who furthers its goals.
1
Don't forget the flip side of all these grasping plutocrats. They blacklist people too.
12
Money, money, money, make the world go round. Nothing new here.
2
It really is the one true religion of the 'industrialized' world.
If this doesn't convince people that the office seekers are bought and paid for and put into place to do the bidding of wealthy donors, and not the citizenry then I don't know what will.
14
Another story on the Plutocrats' Primary. The SCOTUS has undermined democracy by making Braman far more important than the electoraate.
17
How do you judge the purity of campaign contributions?
How the donor stands on abortion? Deflated footballs?
How the donor stands on abortion? Deflated footballs?
5
Can the contributions be spent without attracting the attention of the Secret Service or the Justice Dept.? Yes? Then they're pure enough...
1
This is conflict of interest--at a bare minimum. A businessman is directly subsidizing the personal and campaign finances of a politician while that politician is or has been in position to evaluate legislation that directly affects the businessman's interests. I'm sure Fox News's disappointment about the Clinton Foundation will be dwarfed by their justifiable fury over this.
But to me, the darker story is the big picture: how individuals like Braman have become super-citizens who can wield massively disproportionate influence over the political process.
This is how democracy dies.
But to me, the darker story is the big picture: how individuals like Braman have become super-citizens who can wield massively disproportionate influence over the political process.
This is how democracy dies.
60
I agree completely with your super citizen statement. We as voters, are being given politicians to vote for, that have the most money, and with that, power, for us to elect to office.
I'd say the republic is over and the empire is well under way, similar to Rome's senate being around 150 years after the Caesars took power. The Caesars in this case, are not the politicians. They are the 1 percent.
I'd say the republic is over and the empire is well under way, similar to Rome's senate being around 150 years after the Caesars took power. The Caesars in this case, are not the politicians. They are the 1 percent.
7
Where is the conflict of interest? Where are the "billionaire's interests" being supported? If everyone who wanted to get public support for a public cause creates a conflict of interest, then Braman is a minor culprit. Start with the labor unions, then the elite art institutes, or maybe even look at the Clinton Foundation. But don't start looking at the budget of a cancer institute -- you might find it actually accomplishes its mission.
1
This must be the Republican plan for economic recovery: we each get a billionaire to smooth over the rough spots in our personal finances. Are mortgages really "liabilities"? I thought they were investments. Millions of other Americans have them. This is Chris Christie on financial steroids. I hope the Justice Department is looking at this.
16
What's all the fuss about.
The whole election process is a shame from being to end.
We are in Oz now and he curtain has been drawn back and on the other side of the street the emperor has no clothes on.
WAKE UP TIME PEOPLE!!
The whole election process is a shame from being to end.
We are in Oz now and he curtain has been drawn back and on the other side of the street the emperor has no clothes on.
WAKE UP TIME PEOPLE!!
12
Thanks to Braman, Adelson, Koch and a few other mega billionaires, US policy is being blatantly driven by Israel and oil industry interests to the detriment of the vast majority of Americans.
Our best hope is to elect a President who will appoint the next couple of progressive Supreme Court judges who understand the damage from Citizens United and help reverse it. As a major beneficiary of a messed up campaign finance system, Marco Rubio cannot be expected to be that President.
Our best hope is to elect a President who will appoint the next couple of progressive Supreme Court judges who understand the damage from Citizens United and help reverse it. As a major beneficiary of a messed up campaign finance system, Marco Rubio cannot be expected to be that President.
64
The US desperately needs to appoint a justice who will teach the court what faith based legislation is and why it is unconstitutional.
7
Steve Bolger:
What you really want is not "education" but for liberal justices to be able to interpret the Constitution with their own liberal biases.
What you really want is not "education" but for liberal justices to be able to interpret the Constitution with their own liberal biases.
3
Why is the word "liberal" bad? Liberal policies are supported by the majority of the electorate. That is why the GOP does not want public financing of campaigns. They need a lot of money to misinform their base! Braman and others are emboldened by Citizens United and they always knew people like Rubio were for sale!!
3
They seem to be friends. I don't think much of either of them, but, for friends, I don't see much political hanky-panky. The problem is all the suckers voting for Rubio and against their own interests, not having a rich friend. We can't see into the soul of either, but serious criticism of a mutual admiration and back-scratching society like this seems inappropriate. Thank you for your article, however.
6
That's a good point. Rubio supporters like to talk about how he worked his way up and was successful but as this article points out he had plenty of help. That's not necessarily wrong but to deny other people educational opportunities etc. when he had help himself is pretty rotten.
1
Most of the Founding Fathers were wealthy men. Wealth is not a fatal disease. Wealthy Democrats like Warren Buffet and Bill Gates continuously influence this country.
6
Please provide evidence of the last time Bill Gates or Warren Buffet wrote out a personal check for $10,000,000 to support a politician. You will NOT find one. Deal with facts not fiction, otherwise apply for a job at FOX News, you will fit right in.
Thank you
Thank you
24
Wealth can be fatal to democracy and, according to Jesus Christ, the immortal soul.
10
Warren Buffet decided that people needed to pay more in taxes, and he was quoted ad nauseam. Democrats like their wealthy to be from Hollywood, where they have big voices abut not always a lot of substance behind them.
The reality is both parties have their share of wealthy influential people. The left just gets worked up when they perceive the other side's influence gaining on their own.
The reality is both parties have their share of wealthy influential people. The left just gets worked up when they perceive the other side's influence gaining on their own.
3
It doesn't appear Mr. Rubio at 43 is mature enough to run for president. Whatever his ethical issues (!!!!), perhaps Mr. Rubio should wait to run for president until he is able to pay his 'multiple mortgages' himself, find a teaching job that isn't 'subsidized' by a friend, pay that large student loan debt himself and help Mrs. Rubio find employment that suits her qualifications - i.e. that doesn't look like a handout from Mr. Braman.
Maybe this is all perfectly legit and Mr. Braman is just 'helping Rubio become president' to fulfill his own "legacy" (a "legacy" that reminds one of the entitled Bush or Romney families). If a very rich buddy subsidized me, I doubt it would be described as "helping me become president."
Who doesn't recoil when a 43 year old man runs for president while being financially subsidized in every part of his life (his own salary, his wife's Braman-created job) by a rich friend, living a lifestyle that looks impossible to afford on his own?
When has Mr. Rubio ever lived within his means? He doesn't appear to now. Why does Mr. Rubio need or want Braman's money to pay his bills and support his family? What okays 'multiple mortgages' to someone with little income and whopping student loan debt?
Should anyone be president who doesn't live within his means?
Mr. Rubio should quit running for office and earn a livable income himself (like the 99%) before foisting his immaturity, big ego and sense of entitlement on the rest of us.
Maybe this is all perfectly legit and Mr. Braman is just 'helping Rubio become president' to fulfill his own "legacy" (a "legacy" that reminds one of the entitled Bush or Romney families). If a very rich buddy subsidized me, I doubt it would be described as "helping me become president."
Who doesn't recoil when a 43 year old man runs for president while being financially subsidized in every part of his life (his own salary, his wife's Braman-created job) by a rich friend, living a lifestyle that looks impossible to afford on his own?
When has Mr. Rubio ever lived within his means? He doesn't appear to now. Why does Mr. Rubio need or want Braman's money to pay his bills and support his family? What okays 'multiple mortgages' to someone with little income and whopping student loan debt?
Should anyone be president who doesn't live within his means?
Mr. Rubio should quit running for office and earn a livable income himself (like the 99%) before foisting his immaturity, big ego and sense of entitlement on the rest of us.
88
Rubio is a mental baby..
1
Unfortunately, Obama lowered the bar for presidential candidates so low that it's now lying on the ground. Anyone can run. No experience. No private sector experience. No executive experience. No track record. No substance. Nothing but a good gift of gab and unbridled ambition is required. Solid backing is critical.
With enough good rhetoric and distaste for the prior 8 years, anyone can can elected.
With enough good rhetoric and distaste for the prior 8 years, anyone can can elected.
3
@AACNY
You're just mad that Obama's a great president. Not to mention he and Michelle paid off their own student loans and have never been subsidized (corrupted) by billionaire buddies. There's no scandal attached to Obama anywhere! We may never see such a scandal-free, ethical president again in our lifetime. I'm grateful to him.
You're just mad that Obama's a great president. Not to mention he and Michelle paid off their own student loans and have never been subsidized (corrupted) by billionaire buddies. There's no scandal attached to Obama anywhere! We may never see such a scandal-free, ethical president again in our lifetime. I'm grateful to him.
3
"I got so tired of having to buy bigger boats, more cars, younger spouses to one up my billionaire friends to prove I'm a very important person. But then I found BUY A GUY. You can literally mold, fold and hold an actual person to do what you want. We all love that ventriloquist guy who makes a killing in Vegas but now thanks to the Supreme Court, you can have a living human being sitting in your lap to feed lines of nonsense to. And it does cost $49.99. It costs so much more so everyone knows how rich, old and lonely you are. Forget the planes, yachts and trips to the moon, BUY A GUY is the best. You might even be able to start a war with whatever country you decide not to like. BUY A GUY can be purchased at Washington DC and all local state offices."
40
I'd like to "Recommend" this 20 times. Not to mention, I'll probably still be laughing next Sunday.
GREAT, Lynn - you nailed it.
Sr Rubio can't wven manage his personal finances adequately. How telling.
23
Politicians are great. I wish I could own one too.
11
I guess buying sport franchises, mega yachts, and $100M condo's is passé for the countries billionaires, what's in vogue now is owning a politician, or a few. So much for "of the people and for the people". Thanks to the Supreme Courts decision democracy as we knew if is forever gone.
23
I'm wondering if Mr. Braman knows that Mr. Rubio was a vocal opponent of the auto bailout. If events had gone the way Mr. Rubio wanted them to, Mr. Braman would now be in no position to buy a Senator. But then again, maybe that is the point.
9
Braman doesn't sell US car brands.
1
I doubt Mr. Braman's dealerships would have done well with the bailout since it didn't cover Bugattis.
2
That's the point. Rubio has a very consistent political philosophy. Nothing in this article even remotely suggests that he has done a favor or cast a vote that is inconsistent with that philosophy. The only thing that can be said is that he has a heart in using the government's money to try to help people. For that, the NY Times will pillory a politician - if that politician is a Republican.
2
Mr. Braman is rich only because corrupt politicians maintain laws making it illegal for car manufacturer's to sell directly to the public. And the auto dealers have done nothing but gouge the American public forever and anon. For "Norman" to say he gets nothing out of his relationship with a politician is a lie.
27
On the one hand, if the smoking gun is that Mr. Braman's influence secured state funding for a Cancer Center, that is hardly the biggest political scandal of our time.
On the other hand, if this man's vision consists primarily of raising regressive taxes on the poor like Sales Tax, to pay for slashing progressive taxes on the wealthy like property taxes, and Rubio is beholden to him, that is a bit darker, but certainly 100% expected for any Republican. What else is the GOP way, but "take from the poor and give to the rich?"
On the other hand, if this man's vision consists primarily of raising regressive taxes on the poor like Sales Tax, to pay for slashing progressive taxes on the wealthy like property taxes, and Rubio is beholden to him, that is a bit darker, but certainly 100% expected for any Republican. What else is the GOP way, but "take from the poor and give to the rich?"
19
These shenanigans seems so similar to what got Senator Menendez and his rich benefactor indicted. I can only dream that the same would happen to Rubio. So disgusted reading this article and realizing that nothing will happen to Rubio's campaign after these revelations.
17
Americans need to fight for publicly financed elections. Politicians should not be beholden to those with large sums of money and an agenda.
17
You think taxpayers will be willing to match those sums? I'd vote for publicly financed auto commercials first.
The two phony political parties of the US are creations of the states.
1
Pal-ing around with billionaires? And these politicos have the temerity to talk about Hillary as an "elitist?" What could be more elitist than the company of people whose club's combined wealth equals that of more than half of tbe country? And making hundreds of thousands of debts go away, magically? So very common to the experience of average Americans, the very ones they claim to represent.
Seems they may be representing a group of Americans alright...a very small, elitist club.
Ah, America....when are you going to learn?
Follow the money!
Seems they may be representing a group of Americans alright...a very small, elitist club.
Ah, America....when are you going to learn?
Follow the money!
30
The article raises a simple question: is Rubio interested in Israel or in the campaign funding? Which raises a corollary question: who is taking advantage of whom?
9
The telling comment in the article is the honest one: "Pressed on his financial ties to Mr. Braman, Mr. Rubio said in an interview that he saw no ethical issue." Corruption is one thing; the inability to even recognize it is much more damaging to our society.
45
I am at a lost for words - I just don't understand where the line is in U.S. Politics as far as buying political influence - and for that matter - politicians selling it
7
@Brian Herlihy
There is no line anymore.
There is no line anymore.
4
Boy, if only someone would both personally AND financially uplift me, I would be a much better person as well! Truly a bootstraps tale in the vein of Horatio Alger.
10
Marco Rubio could have all of Putin's money and he wouldn't be able to change my mind on abortion, gay marriage or regulation of Wall Street and shortening the income span.
16
This is an article about nothing. The guy helped get cancer research funding? Big deal. What a waste of NY Times reporting.
8
Kevin, you have to stop reading The Times at 2:50 am. Have some coffee and reread the article. I assure you that Mr. Rubio and his spin doctors are drinking gallons of coffee at this very moment.
5
Except that the "guy" has received substantial personal financial benefit for arranging tax-payer money to be transferred to the Billionaires cancer research center. Don't tell me the quid pro quo is not obvious and disturbing.
Thanks NYT for exposing.
Thanks NYT for exposing.
1
The Times needs to write something to counteract all the print on Hillary's relationships with Middle east dictators. I remember reading about a job created for Michelle Obama after her husband had voted for funds for the University Of Chicago Hospital. The job helped them pay on their school loans. Said job has been vacant since Michelle left for the White House.
2
The caption and picture - Billionaire lifts - Marco Rubio, 43, and Norman Braman, 82, at a bipartisan rally for Israel in 2012. Positions on Israel helped bring them together. Greater Miami Jewish Federation - is unique: unlike any I have experienced in US politics in 76 years.
The photographer is not identified... and the candidate and his Jewish benefactor are surrounded by two American flags.
Cy Lewis, my father, was head of The New York Federation of Jewish Philanthropies for years when that was the largest metropolitan charity in the world, before it was merged into United Jewish Appeal, against his wishes.
Speaking of his prospects when considering a run for The White House, my old friend Mike Bloomberg said, "Five foot seven, Jewish and divorced," and that was that.
Norman Braman stands taller than Sen. Rubio, and the Jewish - Israeli identity of the candidate.
I would guess this shot will eliminate Marco Rubio from contention.
The photographer is not identified... and the candidate and his Jewish benefactor are surrounded by two American flags.
Cy Lewis, my father, was head of The New York Federation of Jewish Philanthropies for years when that was the largest metropolitan charity in the world, before it was merged into United Jewish Appeal, against his wishes.
Speaking of his prospects when considering a run for The White House, my old friend Mike Bloomberg said, "Five foot seven, Jewish and divorced," and that was that.
Norman Braman stands taller than Sen. Rubio, and the Jewish - Israeli identity of the candidate.
I would guess this shot will eliminate Marco Rubio from contention.
5
What's the matter, you're not comfortable with a car salesman who says "have I got a deal for you!" in supporting a presidential candidate?
15
This article details how Senator Rubio has been a kept man for quite a while.
No one would ever put Bernie Sanders in that category, would they?
No one would ever put Bernie Sanders in that category, would they?
18
Rubio likes to portray himself as the son of poor parents, but now we know who his real "daddy" is. I wish I had a billionaire to bail me out when times were tight. This Braman just is a real sharp businessman, get the taxpayers to pay $80 million for his cancer research institute all for throwing a coins to Rubio. Give a penny get, a dollar. That is American way if you are rich.
16
They have them in both parties: puppeteers
The best congressmen money can buy
The best congressmen money can buy
5
Hillary has Soros' support as does Obama. He's a billionaire. So what's the difference? Why doesn't the NYTimes sport a headline like the one used here when they write about Clinton and Obama.
8
Huge difference. Neither Obama nor Hillary needed to have their personal finances bailed out (vs campaign funding) - you can't not be obligated to do someone's bidding when they've bailed you out of personal bankruptcy. Beyond that - you can see where Rubio has specifically acquiesced to the requests of Braman, not just in policy terms but in actual requests for taxpayer funding of projects. And this guy is pushing not for philanthropical concepts but battling to push the tax burden on the lower and middle class - and away from himself. And Florida doesn't even have a state income tax!
3
Because no other candidate, to our knowledge, has his or her personal finances completely controlled by one powerful lobbyist ( which Mr. Bramen most definitely is).
3
The NYT has published plenty about the Clinton Foundation and the funny places their money comes from.
2
"In Mr. Braman, a Republican with a strong distaste for wasteful government spending"
Like $80M for Braman's private hospital edifice while public hospitals in FL go broke? That kind of wasteful government spending?
Besides the banal corruption, the relationship sounds creepy.
Rubio's phony claims of fleeing Castro when his parents came to the US YEARS before Castro dovetail perfectly with his being a cardboard cutout for Braman's egomania at taxpayers expense.
Like $80M for Braman's private hospital edifice while public hospitals in FL go broke? That kind of wasteful government spending?
Besides the banal corruption, the relationship sounds creepy.
Rubio's phony claims of fleeing Castro when his parents came to the US YEARS before Castro dovetail perfectly with his being a cardboard cutout for Braman's egomania at taxpayers expense.
31
I guess people can believe what they want to believe. Where in this article does the NY Times suggest that funding for a cancer hospital -- a hospital open to the public -- is wasteful government spending. Is Obamacare wasteful government spending? Or is it not wasteful because it is not controlled by a "private university" (which is overseen by the Florida Attorney General)?
And what does Cuba have to do with this article? Anyone who left Cuba after Castro's coup cannot be said to have "phony" reasons for doing so.
And what does Cuba have to do with this article? Anyone who left Cuba after Castro's coup cannot be said to have "phony" reasons for doing so.
It is very revealing how Sheldon Adelson, Norman Braman, and Chaim Saban in the case of Hillary Clinton have emerged as the main donors for leading Presidential candidates. They are also very clear in endorsing the most militant policies of the Likud Bloc in Israel including engineering another American war of aggression in the Muslim world-this time against Iran. America has paid enough in blood and treasure in the inevitable retaliation these wars of aggression have entailed, when will we put an end to this and the careers of craven politicians who are for sale?
7
American economic and political interests in the Middle East precede the 1948 creation of the state of Israel. The United States has generally supported Israel because it is in the U.S. self- interest to do so. The heavy- handed lobbying of Mr. Bramen and Mr. Adelson may buy a few clueless politicians but it does not alter our national interests.
It has hardly been profitable or in the self interests of the US to make enemies of a quarter of the worlds population on the behalf of a few million Israelis. US one sides support for Israel is directly linked to Aipac and fanatical Armageddon Evangelical lobbies in the US which have been disastrous for the rest of the country which does not share their identity or ideology.
an earlier post was correct in asking - Which viable presidential contender does NOT have a billionaire boyfriend?
7
Marco Rubio does not have the intelligence, education, experience or any other credential to be president. Can you imagine having this light weight in the oval office in the midst of an international crisis? I don't think so.
25
Hiring of the politician and his family members to enhance their income. Access for the politician to the benefactor's private plane. The politician exerting his influence to influence passage of funding for his benefactor's pet projects, and intervening in immigration cases of interest to the benefactor. And the list goes on.
It reads like a synopsis of the Federal indictments of Sheldon Silver and Robert Menendez rolled into one neat package.
The observation is offered not as a politically nuanced indictment of Sen. Rubio. I have no horse in this race yet.
Rather, it is intended as a lament of the sad state into which the governance of our country has descended, and the unbridled influence of dollars within that system.
It reads like a synopsis of the Federal indictments of Sheldon Silver and Robert Menendez rolled into one neat package.
The observation is offered not as a politically nuanced indictment of Sen. Rubio. I have no horse in this race yet.
Rather, it is intended as a lament of the sad state into which the governance of our country has descended, and the unbridled influence of dollars within that system.
9
What next? Traffic jams created in front of Mr. Bramen's rivals' car dealerships? Chris Christie can " work the cones". Buy a football team, buy a politician. What's the dif?
Free speech, ain't it wonderful?
3
This is shocking. Rubio has been corrupted into supporting cancer research.
3
Another politician who is beholden to Israel.
9
Thanks for showing us how washington works.
6
This kind of stuff makes Bernie Sanders look more attractive as a Presidential candidate.
Of course, it helps that I agree with many of his positions.
Of course, it helps that I agree with many of his positions.
11
SANDERS 2016
3
I see in the photograph that Rubio's sugar daddy is wearing a pin in his lapel with a United States of America flag and an Israeli flag. I wonder if he prefers a foreign state?
12
It is heartening to know that Mr. Braman is providing the formerly impoverished Sen. Rubio personal support, (paid) use of the jet and some strategic political funding,
Of course, we can all be assured that Mr. Braman all this is done in order to ensure the interests and general welfare of every constituent and American are considered and acted upon by Sen. Rubio. And we can be equally assured Sen. Rubio deals with his responsibilities faithfully. After all, this is America where the sense of duty, honor, country prevail, not some corrupt banana republic.
Or did I get that wrong....?
Of course, we can all be assured that Mr. Braman all this is done in order to ensure the interests and general welfare of every constituent and American are considered and acted upon by Sen. Rubio. And we can be equally assured Sen. Rubio deals with his responsibilities faithfully. After all, this is America where the sense of duty, honor, country prevail, not some corrupt banana republic.
Or did I get that wrong....?
11
wow! A Senator a t 43 with 450,000 in liability and 115000 of student loan at one time. Now compare him with Jeb Bush and Hillary clinton. If anything this guy is from the masses, the common average american today. Sure he has found a father figure who saw and is seeing him through tough times. and OK Mr.Rubio contracted an organization Mr Braman donated to. I dont see a conflict of interest there.
If this article thought its going to show Mr.Rubio in a bad light it seemed to have the opposite effect on me.
If this article thought its going to show Mr.Rubio in a bad light it seemed to have the opposite effect on me.
3
The common, average American doesn't have a billionaire bailing them out. I'm not sure how you missed that.
1
I guess Mr. Rubio will make history after all, but as the first Presidential candidate to quit the race......
8
And be indicted.
This is the really great thing about America! In America, every billionaire can buy his own presidential candidate... is that great or what?!
12
What self-respecting GOP presidential aspirant doesn't have his own personal billionaire godfather these days? Especially one who seeks favors for their businesses, pet charities and, of course, certain small foreign countries.
9
America will, as always, get the best President money can buy.
6
The Braman name is ubiquitous in so. Fla. It's not surprising that the man has a ton of political influence, given that the game generally, and in Miami no less so, is won with money. Very few individuals are going to succeed running for US Senate without a few Bramans in their corner. Until campaign finance is out of the equation, we will continue to have to choose among rubios and bushes and Clintons running things.
2
A more interesting article would have covered a presidential candidate who is not beholden to big money. Do we have one? Just curious. I am not impressed with any GOP or Democrat running for the White House to date with the sole exception of Bernie Sanders. I don't think he is in the pockets of the plutocrats.
6
Yes. Sen. Bernie Sanders, now a Dem candidate. Unowned, unlike his opponent, HRC. DNC must set up debates directly between Sanders & HRC, no pussyfooting around withe town hall formats. Or will HRC cash subvert the DNC …
2
So, if Mr.Rubio becomes the president, we very well know who gets to decide foreign policy and Middle East policies. Mr.Braman will fund all efforts to actively support Mr.Netanyahu's settlement encroachment and "No Palestine under my watch" policies !
12
[Mr. Braman] recounted what he described as “excellent service from them” [the Rubios] over the years, and said he wanted nothing in return for his financial help....“I’m not going to be an ambassador or anything like that,” he said. (continuing on) ....“I also have a yacht,” Mr. Braman said, “that Senator Rubio has never seen.” Why, that's outrageous! I hope Senator Rubio demands to see that yacht!!
11
I daresay you missed the point.
Is this a surprise to anyone? News flash - this is the new normal. As long as we have a Supreme Court that sees corporations as people, and a disfunctional campaign funding oversight commission, and a Congress that won't support any campaign finance reform, we will see billionaires fund and own candidates. I do not think the founders of our country had any intention of this happening. Where are our Constitutional purists now? It is the absolute antithesis of what America is about.
9
Citizens United simply leveled the playing field with the unfettered spending unions doled out to Democrats for decades. If you haven't noticed, Dem billionaires outnumber Rep billionaires.
1
No amount of money or influence will overcome Rubio's mistaken position of denying climate change or the Republican history of disdain for hispanics. Hillary will pounce Rubio or whomever is the front leader du jour of the GOP. They've got nothing.
9
A gross example of the 1% hoping to influence the sending of US troops overseas to protect the 1%'s interests there.
That's what has me so angered. The outright buying of government is bad enough. But hoping to have other people's children fight your battles for you? Downright sociopathic.
That's what has me so angered. The outright buying of government is bad enough. But hoping to have other people's children fight your battles for you? Downright sociopathic.
14
Money and politics go hand and hand.. The Party candidates will each have to raise $500 million for the election.. -- Every time you turn around Obama is in SF seeking donations at wealthy, exclusive dinner parties..
-That's the way it goes.
-That's the way it goes.
3
Many of the people criticizing this Rubio-Braman financial relationship are quiet on the Clinton financial relationship with many countries around the world. Rubio will be getting 10 million and the Clintons already have recieved 2 billion (that's 2000 million or 200 times what Rubio is expected to get.)
Now that the times has exposed that Jeanette plane ride to the Middle East was paid for by the Braman's Foundation, I will be expecting a story detailing how 70 million dollars was spent by the Clinton Foundation on air travel.
Now that the times has exposed that Jeanette plane ride to the Middle East was paid for by the Braman's Foundation, I will be expecting a story detailing how 70 million dollars was spent by the Clinton Foundation on air travel.
5
Are all of you crazy to think that it is just Rubio & the Republicans? There are no congressmen or senators in DC- just millionaires. Both sides of the aisle. How many of them, at all levels are corrupt; how many are in jail, or in court right now? They all believe they are royalty. They are petty politicians, nothing else. There is no such thing as 'reform'; no such thing as 'helping the people'. Sometimes it seems we are living in a banana republic.
13
Yes, both sides are corrupt. However, Citizens United was decided by a split Court. The 5 Supreme Court Justices who were nominated by Republicans ruled in favor of Citizens United and the 4 Supreme Court Justices nominated by Democrats were opposed to Citizens United. Just one more Justice nominated by a Democrat would have prevented the unmitigated disaster that is Citizens United. Party DOES make a difference.
One additional point. There are many Democrats who support campaign finance reform legislation. Very few, if any, Republicans favor campaign finance reform. Sticking with Democrats will minimize the damage done to our country while the American people figure out how to force campaign finance reform on our government. Think George W. Bush.
One additional point. There are many Democrats who support campaign finance reform legislation. Very few, if any, Republicans favor campaign finance reform. Sticking with Democrats will minimize the damage done to our country while the American people figure out how to force campaign finance reform on our government. Think George W. Bush.
3
Can we please go back to the days when the filthy rich were content to spend their money on yachts, mansions, concert halls and art museums named for them, small countries, and royal titles?
27
Does anyone really believe that the J.P. Morgans of this country did not throw their political weight around? BOTH Roosevelts had to fight him.
Therefore Marco Rubio gets one vote from his greatest supporter Norman Braman, what a shame. The son of a bartender who came from Cuba with nothing in his pocket, God bless America now this child is here beaming with smile, he now has a train load of money.
4
Beholden to Mr. Braman but apparently not really part of his inner circle, it looks like Mr. Rubio is set up for tragedy.
4
One can only hope.
4
Legislation has to be passed limiting campaign contributions to $100 per person, $1000 per corporation with no bundling or PACS. The money must be taken out of politics and democracy returned to the people! Politicians who don't go along with limiting campaign contributions should be named and voted out of office.
15
I don't see how Rubio can take any credit for who and what he is seeing as how beholden he is to Braman. When Rubio fails to win the presidency Braman is gonna spit him out like he would if a bug flew into his mouth
13
No. Rubio will still be a Senator and, therefore, useful to Braman.
1
Political campaigns bear almost 100% similarity to marketing campaigns, and candidates are handled much like products.
Recently a TV political pundit framed the Republican's challenge in 2016 in marketing terms: an excessive supply of candidates in a market with too little demand for what those candidates represent.
Norman Braman understands marketing, and he should understand this. He should also understand that no amount of money can promote a lousy product to market success. Braman should ask Sheldon Adelson about the $150 million he spent on Mitt Romney, then reflect on the lousy candidate he's bankrolling yet again.
Recently a TV political pundit framed the Republican's challenge in 2016 in marketing terms: an excessive supply of candidates in a market with too little demand for what those candidates represent.
Norman Braman understands marketing, and he should understand this. He should also understand that no amount of money can promote a lousy product to market success. Braman should ask Sheldon Adelson about the $150 million he spent on Mitt Romney, then reflect on the lousy candidate he's bankrolling yet again.
13
So it is OK for big money to back Hillary, but it is not OK if the big money backs a conservative candidate.
Yeah, that seems "fair".
Yeah, that seems "fair".
3
How can we fight the fact that there are millions of Americans who have not been educated to the extent that they can think crtitically and who are easily influenced by clever ads? They will always be there; we just have to keep trying to bring into the media light the old idea of common sense and questioning of motives.
6
Norman Braman. Whadda guy, whadda guy. Adding to the pity of it all is that his gifts to Rubio have all been chump change in his realm. Becoming Ambassador to somewhere would be the least of our worries (and the least of Braman's desires) if the boy senator becomes president.
Yes I know he is the same age as JFK in 1960 but Kennedy actually had some accomplishments at that age and also did not need to rely on the kindness of rich strangers
Yes I know he is the same age as JFK in 1960 but Kennedy actually had some accomplishments at that age and also did not need to rely on the kindness of rich strangers
26
JFK inherited money from a father with questionable ties. That's better?
6
Are you joking? The Kennedy's were and ARE billionaires. JFK's father was an enormously wealthy man, who had a lifetime plan to make his son POTUS (actually his other son, but he died too early). He would have been a billionaire in 2015 dollars, probably a few times over.
The idea that JFK was some "ordinary guy" is just laughable.
The idea that JFK was some "ordinary guy" is just laughable.
3
JFK had served in the Congress for 14 years, had commander a PT boat during "the good war," and had written two books.
1
If Rubio gets elected, presumably he'll ditch the Presidential limousine for a shiny Rolls Royce or Bugatti.
15
The connection betwen Mr. Rubio and his benefactor Mr. Braman are extremely disturbing. It is ridiculous to believe that all the moeny Mr. Rubio has and will receive could have no influence. But it is also disturbing that this article called Mr. Rubio "a child of struggling Cuban refugees." Mr. Rubio's parents came to the U.S. in 1956, about three years before the Cuban revolution. After some prodding, Mr. Rubio has acknowledged this. Yet the reporters of this article have not noticed it.
87
Rubio's parents never did flee Cuba on a boat in the company of refugees in the wake of revolution. Understandably opportunistic no doubt and eager to enjoy the fruits of USA liberty, the immigrating Rubio seniors left pre-revolution by flying to Miami on a commercial flight in 1956. Rubio senior, short years later, even once contemplated going back home since Castro's regime wasn't looking all that terrible at that time. I find it hard to believe therefore that Sen. Rubio can credibly claim himself to be "a child of struggling Cuban refugees."
9
There were Cuban refugees long before Castro. Batista was no prince.
2
Boy, if Rubio & his benefactor disturb you, you must be apoplectic over Hillary and all her foreign "benefactors."
Pobrecito, que lastima!
As my old friend Johnny P. used to say - take two aspirin, drink a bottle of Scotch, and get plenty of rest!
Have a nice day!
Pobrecito, que lastima!
As my old friend Johnny P. used to say - take two aspirin, drink a bottle of Scotch, and get plenty of rest!
Have a nice day!
I'm not so worried about Braman's wealth as about Rubio's own money management skills. Student debt I understand, as other members of his generation have dealt with, but still, Rubio seems like he thinks nothing of adding more and more to his personal debts. I know the Clintons were like this too, and I don't see being deep in debt but still acquiring more while begging for campaign funds as a positive quality of leadership.
Personally, I think any politician ought to have a positive personal balance sheet before running for national office. When you have to beg from rich people in order to survive most personally and politically, that doesn't show leadership.
Personally, I think any politician ought to have a positive personal balance sheet before running for national office. When you have to beg from rich people in order to survive most personally and politically, that doesn't show leadership.
29
He had a net worth (as of 2008) of $8,351. That's ridiculous for an adult.
5
@Zoester
That sum IS ridiculous for someone trying to seek the Presidency, in this era. However, it's important to note that the number of adults in this country who could only dream to have their net worth assessed at the princely sum of $8351, would astound you--myself included.
That sum IS ridiculous for someone trying to seek the Presidency, in this era. However, it's important to note that the number of adults in this country who could only dream to have their net worth assessed at the princely sum of $8351, would astound you--myself included.
1
Is there a coincidence that all the billionaires backing Republican candidates, this auto dealer magnate, the casino magnate and others are ardent supporters of Israel? When Netanyahu says he'd use all the influence the state of Israel has to promote the interests of his government, does he mean to use these billionaires? Isn't it obvious that our democracy has turned into an oligopoly? Our election financing system is wrong. It favors such behavior. We need to institute fair election system where every candidate has equal amount of money to spend or limit donations whether private or corporate to maximum $100 and ban super Pacs.
47
There also are millions of middle-class Jews and Christians who support Israel. People like Braman and Adelson are mainly interested in making money. Supporting Israel is secondary to them.
I guess that makes Mr. Rubio the next president of the United States of America. Doesn't it?
1
And America's Oligarchy is different than Russia's Oligarchy in what way?
22
Different because we've refined the PRETENSE of acting as though it's NOT....American Exceptionalism!
14
Less violent, they don't have political opponents assassinated, just destroy them with unlimited funding for mud-slinging ads.
5
Putin kicked out most of those who robbed Russia under Yeltsin... they are in jail, or hiding in London or Israel.
1
How many of Mr. Rubio's constituents get the same "excellent service?" Certainly not the residents of Miami-Dade where guns run riot over lives each and every day. On the issue of guns, Mr. Rubio sole focus is the wants of the NRA. Certainly not the entire spectrum of flora and fauna in entire lower half of the state, which is deeply dependent on the health and longevity of the Everglades. On the issue of the Everglades restoration Mr. Rubio's sole focus is the Anjul family, Big Sugar, and other commercial exploiters/destroyers. As a foot soldier for the Right Wing, Rubio's level of service knows no limit. As for his service to entire state, we, his constituents, see nothing.
62
Be fair. He obviously supports the automobile retailing industry. Well, at least a certain segment of it.
1
A talented guy, Rubio. But this is disgusting.
8
In what way is he talented. When I hear him speak I am reminded of George Bush (the son)
9
So talented that he had to have someone fund a teaching position for him? So talented that he had more than one mortgage while owing over $100k in student loans? So talented a speaker that he has to lunge for a water bottle? So talented that the truth about his parents' immigration story was easily proven to be, well, misleading?
3
But ... But ... But Justice Kennedy *PROMISED* us that there was no danger of corruption based on the decision in Citizens United.
And I am the King of Siam.
(Both propositions are equally true.)
And I am the King of Siam.
(Both propositions are equally true.)
57
Ah, I see we have finally arrived at the Age of Kingmakers here in America. Nice. Does Senator Rubio honestly believe his patron wants nothing in return for hundreds of thousands -- nay, millions -- of dollars? Exactly how naive does he think we all are?
Braman was a jerk when he owned the Eagles. I thought he had faded into retirement obscurity. Silly me.
Braman was a jerk when he owned the Eagles. I thought he had faded into retirement obscurity. Silly me.
42
Actually, when compared with the Koch Brothers, Sheldon Adelson et al, Braman is probably the LEAST malignant!
5
Ah, there's nothing like corruption for creating good governance.
9
Without campaign finance reform. the US will never be a true representative democracy. Sadly, given the stranglehold the rick have on US politics, it's hard to see any path back to a more equitable democracy.
21
The French Revolution didn't require campaign finance reform. It require the guillotine. And it was successful.
1
How does a "Car Dealer" become a billionaire?
16
He got into Miami real estate....made some smart moves....back in the day. NOT just by selling cars!
6
Car dealerships are the closest thing to out and out loan sharking as it comes. If ever an "industry" needed a good looking into, car dealerships are it.
5
Excellent question!! Next, I would really like to see The Times publish an in-depth article about Mr. Braman. We might find a really juicy one in Vanity Fair or Rolling Stone...
3
American elections have been reduced to a battle of billionaires.
Billionaires fund pet philanthropies, too, and seem to have decided to give fast food workers a raise. Benevolent billionaires. Until they decide to cull the herd. Or unless you live where they will be staging their next war.
I am lucky to have gotten a good education, learned how to read, some science, and how to think critically. So I get to be conscious as the billionaires rule their world. It's something. A richer intellectual experience than being completely ignorant and having no idea why a society that could be so peaceful is so cruel.
All the money has to be in the hands of billionaires. That is he prime directive, from which everything else follows.
Billionaires fund pet philanthropies, too, and seem to have decided to give fast food workers a raise. Benevolent billionaires. Until they decide to cull the herd. Or unless you live where they will be staging their next war.
I am lucky to have gotten a good education, learned how to read, some science, and how to think critically. So I get to be conscious as the billionaires rule their world. It's something. A richer intellectual experience than being completely ignorant and having no idea why a society that could be so peaceful is so cruel.
All the money has to be in the hands of billionaires. That is he prime directive, from which everything else follows.
20
I am lucky to be able I can retire in two years and I am in generally good health, my sheltered annuities have done okay, and thanks to my wife's nationality I have the ability to retire outside the U.S. in a small, quiet country with little violence that provides universal health care for all its residents. In two years I won't miss at all reading about what a hopeless corrupt country this is.
16
Good luck, Jon. Just be sure that you renounce your US citizenship (if you are one) when you retire to your small, quiet country, etc. Otherwise, the hopeless corrupt country will still tax your pension.
3
Citizens United= Legalized bribery.
What an obvious equation. Math is a wonderful thing.
What an obvious equation. Math is a wonderful thing.
19
Sheldon Adelson was only the tip of the iceberg. Every billionaire will have his or her own presidential candidate now thanks to SCOTUS.
10
Does this benefactor now own a piece of Rubio and the country? Will Rubio always return his phone calls? Will Rubio's wife cash in also? This is the first and most basic question each of us should ponder.
8
I know. This sounds just like when the hospital in Chicago created a position for Michelle and paid her $300K+ a year after Obama became a state senator.
2
That is totally untrue. You should know better than to repeat outright lies.
2
Americans ought to be concerned that among the biggest king-makers in this plutocracy of ours, are men whose sole reasoning for supporting an American politician is whether that politician will serve the interests of a foreign state.
34
And this may end up backfiring, causing more anti-semitism, as people go back to past eras, not so long ago, when they thought "Jews are controlling the world."
4
Yeah, because now it's not just a thought. At least when it pertains to the rule of Israel over the U.S. Congress.
2
The point of 'going back to past eras', etc., etc., is long gone. The control of the economy, police, military and the means of communication by this plutocracy is such that it does not matter what any of us can think individually or how upset we may become about the status quo.
2
Ten million? Quite a tuneup for the Rubio bus. "Adelson and Kochs, where are you in my next time of need." P.S. "I like Bibi's foreign policy, too."
4
And who is funding Hillary? She just started her own Super Pac. It's not just Republicans, and never has been. Denounce it all, not one side.
4
I think most commentators have denounced it all, they hate Citizens United and corporations as people my friends, and have said they want $100 limits to all campaigns, or else public financing. Can you agree, or are you hoping the Republicans can outspend the Democrats and get their outdated and inferior ideas into power?
3
Don't blame the politician, and don't blame the bankrolling billionaire behind him; blame American voters if they fail to do unbiased research into the candidates and elect the best candidate accordingly.
7
you say that as if you really believe their is a "best" candidate. smh
1
The United States of SuperPAC Contributors
14
If 5% of this can be be corroborated, Mr. Rubio needs to go good-bye-i-o.
The stench of money in politics, unlike the smell of skunk spray on your pet, is forever.
The stench of money in politics, unlike the smell of skunk spray on your pet, is forever.
33
since 100% of this can be corroborated about almost every politician, shouldn't they all be gone?
6
If 1% of Hillary's allegations can be corroborated shouldn't she go as well?
1
When the founding fathers designed our government, we needed politicians. We sent them off on horseback to DC for months at a time with no way to communicate how we wanted them to vote, so we elected people who shared our values.
Today, there is no need for politicians. We could (if the politicians didn't legislate in secrecy) all instantly know every detail of all proposed legislation and could easily vote by phone, email, text, in person, etc.
We don't need politicians selling our votes for the benefit of themselves, their cronies, or a small bloc of swing voters.
Right now, there is legislation that would be supported by a huge majority of American - exactly the kind of legislation that the politicians should be enacting - but it never sees the light of day. To wit: term limits, and border security, to name two. Instead, the pols waste our time arguing over wedge issues that only a small percentage of people really care about, but which effectively divide and conquer all of us.
Until the human race realizes that we don't need "leaders," that leaders give us nothing that we don't already have and extract a huge price for it, every evil that exists - war, poverty, injustice, discrimination, corruption, et al - will always exist.
Polysci and law degrees and I hate politicians.
Today, there is no need for politicians. We could (if the politicians didn't legislate in secrecy) all instantly know every detail of all proposed legislation and could easily vote by phone, email, text, in person, etc.
We don't need politicians selling our votes for the benefit of themselves, their cronies, or a small bloc of swing voters.
Right now, there is legislation that would be supported by a huge majority of American - exactly the kind of legislation that the politicians should be enacting - but it never sees the light of day. To wit: term limits, and border security, to name two. Instead, the pols waste our time arguing over wedge issues that only a small percentage of people really care about, but which effectively divide and conquer all of us.
Until the human race realizes that we don't need "leaders," that leaders give us nothing that we don't already have and extract a huge price for it, every evil that exists - war, poverty, injustice, discrimination, corruption, et al - will always exist.
Polysci and law degrees and I hate politicians.
9
The first politician who says, "My opinion on any issue is irrelevant, I only vote how my constituents tell me to vote," gets my vote. The first presidential candidate who says, "When I am elected, if there is not a Congressional term limits bill waiting for my signature on my first day in office, I will shut the government down until there is," gets my vote and all my money.
4
This may not be a "big deal" as many suggest, but ANY favoritism in return for money is wrong. Period. A candidate or any politician should remove him or herself from anything that calls their objectivity into question. It doesn't seem like Mr. Rubio has done that.
10
We wouldn't have any politicians left then Mark. Including Hillary.
2
Capitalism in action.
1
Agree with Concerned. Never seen this amount of transparency between benefactors. If this is the worst mass media comes up with, it's a non-starter. Sounds a bit like how you champion your younger brother for a spot on the baseball team; obviously you root for him.
1
There's a big difference between rooting for someone and bankrolling them. The point is that these billionaires are controlling our government. The relationship between Braman and Rubio is just an example. We've become a plutocracy. What a handful of the wealthiest people in America want and what is best for America are two different things.
3
Transparency? The real digging is about to begin. Mr. Rubio can go back to teaching, assuming that he can get someone to pay for it. Maybe the University of Miami.
Citizens United had and has nothing, at all, to do with this, and it is shocking to see how many people keep citing it.
By the way, this paper is a corporation. Howd you liike a GOP admin prisecuting the editors for another hackey pro-Clinton piece?
And no, 'the press' did not and does not mean newspapers. It meant simply the printed word was protected along with verbal from govrrnment abridgement.
I think many of you need to stop opining on complex split decision conlaw cases until you do the work of reading the darn thing.
By the way, this paper is a corporation. Howd you liike a GOP admin prisecuting the editors for another hackey pro-Clinton piece?
And no, 'the press' did not and does not mean newspapers. It meant simply the printed word was protected along with verbal from govrrnment abridgement.
I think many of you need to stop opining on complex split decision conlaw cases until you do the work of reading the darn thing.
7
You know that there were TWO Citizens United cases, right? The first one, to which you linked, ruled that the mockumentary "Hillary" was protected speech. But in the course of the case, John Roberts solicited the litigants, particularly former Solicitor General Ted Olson, the lawyer for Citizens United, to argue a new case, barely tangential to the question before the court, out of whole cloth. Unless you can show some precedent for this, I believe it an unprecedented piece of judicial activism by the man who swore to a policy of "judicial modesty" in his confirmation hearings. It was the second case, decided in 2010 (your link is from the 2008 case), where unlimited spending was countenanced.
http://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2012/05/21/money-unlimited
http://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2012/05/21/money-unlimited
3
" . . . helped cover the cost of Mr. Rubio’s salary as an instructor at a Miami college," Wait—what?
51
I am sure Mr. Braman will want something for his money. He has been grooming Mr. Rubio for becoming President. Let's assume for one scary moment that Mr. Rubio becomes the next President. I assume that Mr. Rubio's Middle East policy will be strongly influenced by Mr. Braman's wishes. And who knows what else, how could Rubio forget all of the sugar daddy's favors.
Let us hope that we get a better President than Marco Rubio.
Let us hope that we get a better President than Marco Rubio.
25
JFK was very early on groomed by Newton Minnow, the same Newton Minnow who was an early supporter of then Senator Obama and future President Obama. The wealthy have a way of getting their way.
1
I think there was a time when politicians tried to hide this kind of relationship. Now, they know it doesn't matter to anyone who might vote for them anyway. The good people in Iowa only care about about the "unborn" or guns or hating on Obama or whatever shiny object is placed in their line of view. The fact that billionaires are the puppet masters seems to matter to a relatively few.
13
Stop bashing "the good people of Iowa". Half of us will nave nothing to do with the selection of the GOP candidate, remember?
1
Perhaps I haven't been paying attention but was not New Jersey senator Robert Menendez (Democrat) recently indicted by the Justice Department for accepting "gifts" from a rich doctor friend? Someone please explain the difference between the corruption allegations that have ruined Sen. Menendez and Sen. Rubio's shameless rooting at Mr. Bramann's trough?
37
None at all. Perhaps Mr. Rubio is being investigated as we speak.
Thought Rubio was GOP golden boy---until this.
Golden has now become toast.
Golden has now become toast.
15
Why don't we just skip the candidates' debates and have their top financial backers debate instead? At least we wouldn't be fooling ourselves.
59
Great idea Theresa. How about a big stakes poker game, with the winner selecting the President and the pot going to retiring the national debt?
4
So, to some extent, this is just the system.
Rubio is a head above Senator Menendez, but still miles behind Obama. The ideal situation for an ambitious politician who is not the insider (as in people like Bushes and Clintons) is that you are so desirable and so well positioned, that very rich people will give you money without asking for anything - anything at all - in return, then you are home free. You can then reward them with uncontroversial stuff when you are in position to do so.
Anything less is poor man's version, in worse grades. For example Menendez's benefactor was a mere (one can almost say, "struggling" in this context) multi-millionaire who still needed actual government favors to make more. This car dealer guy doesn't need any money for himself, but government largess would not be bad for some charity projects, which is borderline.
Obama, however, in the same place as Rubio back circa 2007 had Penny Pritzker and Oprah Winfrey (and maybe others we the public do not know). Bona fide 0.0001% blue bloods who needed absolutely nothing.
Rubio is a head above Senator Menendez, but still miles behind Obama. The ideal situation for an ambitious politician who is not the insider (as in people like Bushes and Clintons) is that you are so desirable and so well positioned, that very rich people will give you money without asking for anything - anything at all - in return, then you are home free. You can then reward them with uncontroversial stuff when you are in position to do so.
Anything less is poor man's version, in worse grades. For example Menendez's benefactor was a mere (one can almost say, "struggling" in this context) multi-millionaire who still needed actual government favors to make more. This car dealer guy doesn't need any money for himself, but government largess would not be bad for some charity projects, which is borderline.
Obama, however, in the same place as Rubio back circa 2007 had Penny Pritzker and Oprah Winfrey (and maybe others we the public do not know). Bona fide 0.0001% blue bloods who needed absolutely nothing.
1
And yet Obama raised taxes on the wealthy and was able to pass healthcare reform so that millions of Americans who otherwise couldn't afford health insurance can now do so.
2
No. Mr. Braman doesn't need any more wealth. That's why he was brazenly arm-twisting the Florida legislature right in front of the reporter.
Big crook or small crook? We now have that choice in which politician to support.
13
Seems this article is a whole lotta nothin'.
Norman Braman is a huge donor in Miami for cancer research. I for one appreciate that. Philanthropy, not politics is his main agenda.
The fact that both these gentlemen seem to have been so open, easy and without buffers speak about their relationship to the NYT attests to their character and that they have nothing to hide. Unlike some others running for President.
As a Miami resident myself I can say Norman Braman is widely known here as a class act.
So, now we know. Braman is Rubio's father figure and benefactor and wants him to succeed. Good for him.
Norman Braman is a huge donor in Miami for cancer research. I for one appreciate that. Philanthropy, not politics is his main agenda.
The fact that both these gentlemen seem to have been so open, easy and without buffers speak about their relationship to the NYT attests to their character and that they have nothing to hide. Unlike some others running for President.
As a Miami resident myself I can say Norman Braman is widely known here as a class act.
So, now we know. Braman is Rubio's father figure and benefactor and wants him to succeed. Good for him.
6
Surely this was written tongue in cheek, right?
11
@Paul
About as tongue in cheek as Hillary and her Foundation money from Saudi Arabia and China. That kind of tongue and cheek.
About as tongue in cheek as Hillary and her Foundation money from Saudi Arabia and China. That kind of tongue and cheek.
3
"The fact that both these gentlemen seem to have been so open, easy and without buffers speak about their relationship to the NYT attests to their character and that they have nothing to hide."
Another possibility is that this attitude is fueled by arrogance.
Another possibility is that this attitude is fueled by arrogance.
3
We have now entered the political age of follow the money where it is and whatever it demands --- no excuses, no spin, no hiding---just give me the money and see me run.
5
Rubio looks like a real amateur next to Hilary and Bill Clinton for
collecting cash....the Clintons have ten times the billionaires that Marco Rubio does as their close friends, ten times the private jets, etc. Why does this story even rate a front page? If the NYT wants to spend time looking at rich friends of Presidential candidates and their generosity toward candidates, they should concentrate on the Clintons, after all, that is where the really big money is....
collecting cash....the Clintons have ten times the billionaires that Marco Rubio does as their close friends, ten times the private jets, etc. Why does this story even rate a front page? If the NYT wants to spend time looking at rich friends of Presidential candidates and their generosity toward candidates, they should concentrate on the Clintons, after all, that is where the really big money is....
8
You are right. I think it was The Washington post that ran an article about Jeb's wife liking jewelry. Some deal.
Then you would be in favor of campaign finance reform?
1
It's time to repeal Republican disaster Citizens United.
15
Why? What does that have to do with this guy's donations?
How would 'we' "repeal" a decision by the Supreme Court?
How would 'we' "repeal" a decision by the Supreme Court?
Of course SCOTUS decisions can be reversed. Ever hear of Dred Scott?
For all of this we have the wonderful SCOTUS to thank (sarcasm mode in full force).
8
Actually, Citizens United has zero to do with this. If you read the case, you'll understand why.
3
This is corruption pure and simple. Mr. Rubio shouldn't be in the Senate (or the White House) he should be in prison!
14
along with every other politician in Washington. It is absolutely impossible to make it to Congress or the Presidency without being corrupt. If you think there's one who isn't, you're naive.
1
I don't like the wealthy trying to buy elections (they already own the candidates), agree with them or not.
5
then don't vote for any politicians because they ALL, Dems and GOP, are bought and paid for.
5
Yes, and, and . .. "
"Marco Rubio [was] on a trip abroad to boost his foreign policy credentials. His first stop was in Jordan, where he met with King Abdullah, and on Wednesday he was in Jerusalem, where he and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu toasted each other with water bottles (a nod to Rubio's State of the Union response last week).
Mr. Braman has His Man.
16
Over the years I've bought many autos from Braman motors. Thanks for informing me about this connection. I will never buy another car from them again, just as I would never waste my vote on the likes of Marco Rubio.
18
So you're gonna do what exactly? Buy a Prius from Bernie Sanders?
1
You don't like your candidates auto-emancipated?
A discouraging article. We really are in a new Gilded Age. I wish Demcrats had a candidate who could credibly campaign on this issue. With every Republican bitterly opposing reform, it looks like from now on we will only be able to choose among millionaires or billionaires. Thanks a lot Justice Roberts!
14
silly, as if Dems don't get money (actually more money - research on OpenSecrets.com) from billionaires.
2
There is a Democratic candidate who can and his name is Bernie Sanders
4
htr wrote
"I wish Democrats had a candidate who could credibly campaign on this issue"
We do, our own Senator Bernie Sanders..
send him some money. I did.
"I wish Democrats had a candidate who could credibly campaign on this issue"
We do, our own Senator Bernie Sanders..
send him some money. I did.
4
Rubio like the others are openly bought and paid for. He openly admits and flaunts it. And it was illegal until recent supreme court decisions. And people still foolishly vote for him.
41
This is the Citizens United case:
http://www.supremecourt.gov/opinions/09pdf/08-205.pdf
It does not say that corporations are people. It does not say that money is speech. It does not say that billionaires can do x, y, or z.
Never have I seen so many people on a comment who, by dint of their comment, simultaneously prove they did not read/understand the case.
Even people like Alan Grayson, whom I deeply respect, is so hyper-focused on corporations and disliking "the right wing" that they seem to have not bothered to read what the 1st Am. says, or read the issues presented in the case.
The case regarded Section 203 of the 2002 Bipartisan Campaign Reform Act.
The American Civil Liberties Union, not generally deemed either a libertarian or conservative/right wing outfit, filed an amicus brief that supported the decision saying that "section 203 should now be struck down as facially unconstitutional."
Why?
Read the first amendment.
Corporate [and billionaire] money is a huge problem. HUGE. But had the SC upheld that law, there would be nothing to stop a GOP administration from selectively prosecuting any entity organized as a corporation - film studios, newspapers, citizens groups, and jailing people - for political speech.
Read the case. It's interesting and fairly easy to follow as these things go.
If nothing else, it is frightening that the SC is so politicized... and mostly, by a left wing that thinks "constitutionality" depends on which result they want.
http://www.supremecourt.gov/opinions/09pdf/08-205.pdf
It does not say that corporations are people. It does not say that money is speech. It does not say that billionaires can do x, y, or z.
Never have I seen so many people on a comment who, by dint of their comment, simultaneously prove they did not read/understand the case.
Even people like Alan Grayson, whom I deeply respect, is so hyper-focused on corporations and disliking "the right wing" that they seem to have not bothered to read what the 1st Am. says, or read the issues presented in the case.
The case regarded Section 203 of the 2002 Bipartisan Campaign Reform Act.
The American Civil Liberties Union, not generally deemed either a libertarian or conservative/right wing outfit, filed an amicus brief that supported the decision saying that "section 203 should now be struck down as facially unconstitutional."
Why?
Read the first amendment.
Corporate [and billionaire] money is a huge problem. HUGE. But had the SC upheld that law, there would be nothing to stop a GOP administration from selectively prosecuting any entity organized as a corporation - film studios, newspapers, citizens groups, and jailing people - for political speech.
Read the case. It's interesting and fairly easy to follow as these things go.
If nothing else, it is frightening that the SC is so politicized... and mostly, by a left wing that thinks "constitutionality" depends on which result they want.
6
"But had the SC upheld that law, there would be nothing to stop a GOP administration from selectively prosecuting any entity organized as a corporation - film studios, newspapers, citizens groups, and jailing people - for political speech."
Money isn't speech.
Money isn't speech.
1
@bob.
Citizens, and the o.p. did not say money is speech.
If you had read the case, or even knew the facts of the case, you'd know that the plaintiffs had made a political documentary and tried to put it on pay per view.
the issue was not the money, it was making the film.
It is well settled that making a political movie is not only speech, but speech requiring the least restrictions.
So I sincerely ask you - why did you say what neither the case nor the person above you said?
Citizens, and the o.p. did not say money is speech.
If you had read the case, or even knew the facts of the case, you'd know that the plaintiffs had made a political documentary and tried to put it on pay per view.
the issue was not the money, it was making the film.
It is well settled that making a political movie is not only speech, but speech requiring the least restrictions.
So I sincerely ask you - why did you say what neither the case nor the person above you said?
The case to which you linked was the 2008 first of TWO Citizens United cases. In argunig it, Chief Justice Roberts solicited the lawyers in the case, which concerned a mockumentary to attack Hillary Clinton, called "Hillary," to argue questions not before the court at all. It was the second case, ruled on in 2010, that has all the elements you erroneously claim to be absent from the case.
Unless you have some example to cite, it remains an unprecedented piece of judicial activism from the Chief Justice, who claimed to be like an umpire calling balls and strikes. In this case, the umpire solicited a game of cricket to be played by the baseball players.
http://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2012/05/21/money-unlimited
Unless you have some example to cite, it remains an unprecedented piece of judicial activism from the Chief Justice, who claimed to be like an umpire calling balls and strikes. In this case, the umpire solicited a game of cricket to be played by the baseball players.
http://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2012/05/21/money-unlimited
3
Okay, Everybody! Anyone who thinks that billionaire will not want something back for his investment, raise your hand!...............................that's what I thought, too.
Shame on Rubio. Shame on us. Shame on our election system.
Shame on Rubio. Shame on us. Shame on our election system.
54
@PogoWasRight: "Shame on Rubio. Shame on us. Shame on our election system."
The biggest shame goes to the right-wingers on the Supreme Court. I can't even bear to write their names, they make me so disgusted.
The biggest shame goes to the right-wingers on the Supreme Court. I can't even bear to write their names, they make me so disgusted.
3
Hold on. I saw someone raise his hand. It looks like he has a dog or something on the roof of his car.
And shame on the Supreme Court. Although Braman probably would have been able to subsidize Rubio even without the Citizens United (such an ironic name) decision.
1
Just today I told my 15-year-old son that I may not even vote this time around, for the first time ever, because there is no candidate that has not already been bought and paid for by the oligarchs.
Then he asked me about Bernie Sanders....hmmm....
Then he asked me about Bernie Sanders....hmmm....
24
Keep an eye on Rand Paul, too.
Badhomecook, please think about how a Democrat President could change the balance of the Supreme Court. That is the number one reason to vote for the Democrat. Better yet, vote straight Democrat ticket. For the good of the nation.
4
badhomecook:
Thanks but a terrible disservice to your teenage son about "dad's values" and your concept of patriotism, not to mention your duty as a citizen.
OMGosh, I just mentioned it, Your Duty as a citizen to vote.
After you have this conversation with your teenage son, please, get back to us as to how that went down.
Please.
Thanks but a terrible disservice to your teenage son about "dad's values" and your concept of patriotism, not to mention your duty as a citizen.
OMGosh, I just mentioned it, Your Duty as a citizen to vote.
After you have this conversation with your teenage son, please, get back to us as to how that went down.
Please.
4
This is not too difficult. First, put yourself out there as the candidate who can best represent Hispanic interests in the U.S. Be the man who can broaden the Republicans' appeal. The man who can win back the Hispanic vote for the Republicans after it declined since the achievements of George Bush. Didn't work.
Plan B. Appeal to another ethnic group, the Jews. Convince all that he has Israel's best interests at heart rather than Chuck Schumer or Debbie Wasserman Schultz.
Won't work either. There are others better at playing that game.
Plan B. Appeal to another ethnic group, the Jews. Convince all that he has Israel's best interests at heart rather than Chuck Schumer or Debbie Wasserman Schultz.
Won't work either. There are others better at playing that game.
5
The Rubio-Braman connection may not be ideal, but it seems a lot less nefarious than the way the Koch brothers are pulling the strings of a large number of politicians. Fighting for money to fund a cancer facility is not evil.
3
....and Soros. You forgot about Soros
1
Or Soros. Or Steyer. Or...oh, why bother? Zealots are blind.
1
The Koch brothers have spent 100's of millions on medical research.
Meh. Move along, nothing to see here. It's not like Mr Braman is a member of a public sector union or anything shady like that. THEN we would have to worry.
5
Or a corporate owner, right Concerned?
1
Public sector unions democratically elect their leaders and formulate policies to help their members and families. Who elected Mr. Braman to have so much influence over the Florida legislature?
2
Regarding Rubio's stint as a "teacher" at Florida International University, who ever heard of raising your own salary? It was a pass-thru. The university acted as a front company. Simple as that.
36
Yeah, isn't Florida Int. some sleazy pop up school like Phoenix or Stayer?
3
I must say "ditto"...try that at a land grant university like the U of Illinois. "Tell you what, Dean, appoint me as a faculty member and I will pay my own salary!" The reply would be something along the lines of "LOL!" It's ludicrous--since I pay my own salary I suppose I can teach what I want...and evaluate my own performance...maybe even promote myself?!? What a deal! I would be ashamed to put the appointment on my CV.
2
How can the Robert's court sleep at night knowing they have destroyed the United States ?
39
Cutting the property taxes and raising the sales tax caught my attention. Disgusting legislation. Disgusting people!
32
So an advanced politician (Mr. Rubio) is NOT a millionaire? Pinch me, I must be dreaming...
And Mr. Soros et al. must be a much, much superior to all other money men because he buys the Democrats. Okay...
And finally, judging by the comments here, the Democrat party is now is what the Republican party used to be: openly, officially anti-semitic, foaming at
the mouth, condescending, immensely wealthy and violently hypocritical about it. How the times have changed.
And Mr. Soros et al. must be a much, much superior to all other money men because he buys the Democrats. Okay...
And finally, judging by the comments here, the Democrat party is now is what the Republican party used to be: openly, officially anti-semitic, foaming at
the mouth, condescending, immensely wealthy and violently hypocritical about it. How the times have changed.
6
Has Mr. Soros ever demanded that his taxes be lowered to the detriment of the middle class and poor?
Mr. Soros's donations to liberal causes are hardly in the same league as the Kochs and Adelson, et al.
Mr. Soros's donations to liberal causes are hardly in the same league as the Kochs and Adelson, et al.
6
Kochs give far more money to the GOP than Soros does to the Dems.
Take whining about anti-semitism somewhere else.
Take whining about anti-semitism somewhere else.
2
It is slanderous to call the Democratic Party antisemitic. There are antisemites in many places -- even in Israel -- and I don't doubt that there are some in the Democratic party. But the canard that the party is antisemitic is a ploy by Republicans to attract Jewish voters. Most Jews have identified with the Democrats since the New Deal and FDR's grand coalition. And they still do so while supporting Israel.
“What is the conflict?” he asked. “I don’t ever recall Norman Braman ever asking for anything for himself.”
Look, I'm sure Mr. Braman does many good things with his money. And maybe as Mr. Rubio says, he has supported the things Mr. Braman was for anyway. But what will happen when the two start out on opposite sides of an issue? Here is a man who's supported him and given his wife a job. And what about the public's good? Where are they in this cozy relationship?
This is turning into a public relations problem for the GOP. Every candidate, to be viable, needs their own pet billionaire. Or maybe it's the other way around. But the big question is where do the rest of us fit in?
Look, I'm sure Mr. Braman does many good things with his money. And maybe as Mr. Rubio says, he has supported the things Mr. Braman was for anyway. But what will happen when the two start out on opposite sides of an issue? Here is a man who's supported him and given his wife a job. And what about the public's good? Where are they in this cozy relationship?
This is turning into a public relations problem for the GOP. Every candidate, to be viable, needs their own pet billionaire. Or maybe it's the other way around. But the big question is where do the rest of us fit in?
18
"But the big question is where do the rest of us fit in?"
They need our votes.
They need our votes.
2
Hey democrats who are quick to look for snot. Look to Hillary and Bill Clinton.
God bless Mr. Braman for his mentoring of Rubio. Just remember that in order to get good governance it takes support. The mothers milk of politics is money. And that money needs to go to honest politicians, not those who promise and produce nothing.
God bless Mr. Braman for his mentoring of Rubio. Just remember that in order to get good governance it takes support. The mothers milk of politics is money. And that money needs to go to honest politicians, not those who promise and produce nothing.
2
Among other things, the article said that when Rubio got a teaching position, his sugar daddy agreed to pay his salary, or part of it. Usually, when A hires B, the salary comes from A, not from C. So this suggests that the school which hired Rubio did not think he was good enough to pay. This lowers my already low estimation of Rubio.
19
Making Marco Rubio president is going to be a "great part of my legacy". The same kind of pride one might have if their dog won first place at the AKC dog show. I don't understand how one has the ego to run for president and the willingness to roll over, and sit and beg. Weird.
11
Not a very apt metaphor. Competition dogs must not have been altered.
Where are all the similar comments on how Hillary gets her money?
3
Is Mrs. Clinton a legislator?
2
@gmy
Hillary has a D next to her name, that's why.
Hillary has a D next to her name, that's why.
1
You haven't been reading these comments, or other columnists, or the Times's reporting on the Clintons and their money, have you?
3
Bad news Marco. The 363 people who were not going to vote for you and commented about this story are still not going to vote for you. I will .
2
make that 364
1
"Would you buy a used car from this man?"
6
Of course not.
Never trust a used car salesman.
Never trust a politician
Nuff said.
Never trust a politician
Nuff said.
10
The big news is (1) they like and promote the same charities and scientific research and (2) Braman hired Rubio's wife at his chariable foundation? Seems pretty tame relative to the Clinton Foundation taking millions from foreign entities and Russia mysteriously being able to buy a huge share of America's uranium mines with the approval of the State Department under HIllary's control.
5
Actually, the Nuclear Regulatory Commission had to sign off on that deal AFTER a panel of nine administration officials voted on it. Of which Hillary was one.
But a presidential candidate bought lock, stock and barrel by a .001%er?
Just fine and dandy for a conservative.
But a presidential candidate bought lock, stock and barrel by a .001%er?
Just fine and dandy for a conservative.
7
Do any of the Clintons get paid by their foundation? Easy question, huh?
Well, if Republicans don't like Hillary's imbroglios, enter Rubio. Only, Republicans will find nothing unusual in Rubio's financial arrangements. Indeed, they'll find them commendable.
That is, until the primary season starts. Were Rubio to have a strong showing, I'm sure other GOP primary contenders won't let him get away with this. Rubio's significant lack of depth will serve him poorly in the primary cycle. He's not in Florida anymore. He needs to find other supporters, more powerful supporters than is Mr. Braman. He'll have to let go.
I'm sure glad we have the best democracy in the world. Vetted by the Supreme Court, our democracy takes us into that dark electoral future. Rubio's situation is absolutely deplorable. I can just see the Republican protests, "But what about the others?" Of the others, several will beat him at his game.
Nevertheless, it's nice to have a sugar daddy like that. If Rubio wins the presidency, Braman will have a lot of power. You ask, "What about the Koch's?" The Koch's already have a lot of power. This election will be a battle between billionaires. If you're going to belly up to the presidential bar, you're going to have to sport a wad of bills.
That is, until the primary season starts. Were Rubio to have a strong showing, I'm sure other GOP primary contenders won't let him get away with this. Rubio's significant lack of depth will serve him poorly in the primary cycle. He's not in Florida anymore. He needs to find other supporters, more powerful supporters than is Mr. Braman. He'll have to let go.
I'm sure glad we have the best democracy in the world. Vetted by the Supreme Court, our democracy takes us into that dark electoral future. Rubio's situation is absolutely deplorable. I can just see the Republican protests, "But what about the others?" Of the others, several will beat him at his game.
Nevertheless, it's nice to have a sugar daddy like that. If Rubio wins the presidency, Braman will have a lot of power. You ask, "What about the Koch's?" The Koch's already have a lot of power. This election will be a battle between billionaires. If you're going to belly up to the presidential bar, you're going to have to sport a wad of bills.
5
We have not only the best democracy in the world, we have The Best Democracy Money Can Buy. It seems to me all we need is a constitutional amendment changing the elections from 'one person, one vote' to 'one dollar, one vote' and we're done.
This article really brought out the Leftist, self hating Jews, and of course anti semitism from them as well as non Jews.
What is even more offensive to me is their arrogance in thinking that any American Jew that doesn't agree with them is some how wrong thinking.
Aren't Jews allowed to participate in our political system like any other citizen? Are we all supposed to agree with the Leftists or be accused of having divided loyalty?
I do agree our financing of political campaigns is very wrong, but only another Jew or an anti semite would make the religion of the donor an issue.
I don't see any one criticizing the the Koch brothers for being Christian.
What is even more offensive to me is their arrogance in thinking that any American Jew that doesn't agree with them is some how wrong thinking.
Aren't Jews allowed to participate in our political system like any other citizen? Are we all supposed to agree with the Leftists or be accused of having divided loyalty?
I do agree our financing of political campaigns is very wrong, but only another Jew or an anti semite would make the religion of the donor an issue.
I don't see any one criticizing the the Koch brothers for being Christian.
3
There's an enormous difference. Your neighbors children will be killed fighting these billionaires wars in the middle east. Not going to happen if any of us 'leftists' ( which I guess means Pro America) can help it
1
Anyone stuck in the Conservative-Liberal/Republican-Democrat paradigm is not paying attention. One vote is not the same as having a voice, or a view that is predominate and to argue that my voice and vote count as much as a Braman, as a Koch or an Adelson is just plain disingenuous and dumb.
Oil lobbyists do not “promote” views, AIPAC lobbyists to do not “promote” views, NRA lobbyists do not “promote” views in the way you and I would
by visiting a representative in DC or voting in Congress. They use the power of money and intimidation and purchase huge amounts of elite influence.
These extremely wealthy and arrogant people are not giving this money for their health. They are expecting something for it.
Oil lobbyists do not “promote” views, AIPAC lobbyists to do not “promote” views, NRA lobbyists do not “promote” views in the way you and I would
by visiting a representative in DC or voting in Congress. They use the power of money and intimidation and purchase huge amounts of elite influence.
These extremely wealthy and arrogant people are not giving this money for their health. They are expecting something for it.
4
If you are looking for improprieties I suggest you look under such names as, Soros, Clinton, Rezko, Obama, Harry Reid and, well on and on and on. Just keep to left side of the lake because despite the fact that it has been a well kept secret, the fishing over there, in the deep waters you know, has always been the best.
One last point, since the dot com billionaires have been stocking the pond, over there on that deep left side, why the fishing has just gone through the roof.
Rich in New Mexico.
One last point, since the dot com billionaires have been stocking the pond, over there on that deep left side, why the fishing has just gone through the roof.
Rich in New Mexico.
5
I wish I was Rich too, in New Mexico or California, then maybe I could get some politician advocate for any of my screwball schemes.
Thank you SCOTUS!
Thank you SCOTUS!
1
Second post I've read that mentions the Clintons and implies equivalence without evidence. Nothing about them remotely resembles them being bought like this.
It seems like Rubio has been hoisted on Braman's petard, probably more than once, I hope it was worth it.
This dude just wasted a lot of money.
5
If you just read the main stream media you would think that the only wealthy donors that exist are the Koch brothers. The Koch's good deeds are never revealed in news stories as it would wreck the message. Soros' influence is never a topic of discussion nor are Democrat bundlers.
4
Soros is one guy. Can't you come up with someone else?
@Nancy Kirk: sure -- how about Tom Steyer? Michael Bloomberg (nominally a Republican, but with a hard left social agenda)? Bill Gates? Jeff Bexzos? Warren Buffet? All of Hollywood?
Hillary is backed by a lot of foreign billionaires.
Hillary is backed by a lot of foreign billionaires.
Just make sure you understand that when you vote for Mr. Rubio, you are actually voting for Mr. Braman's agenda.
5
Didn't a certain Virginia gubenatorial figure just conclude his day in court due to the "influence" on said governor by a rich benefactor?
What's sauce for the goose, would be great, in my view, for the gander.
Perhaps someone can throw those two state attorneys together, respectively, and see what happens?
What's sauce for the goose, would be great, in my view, for the gander.
Perhaps someone can throw those two state attorneys together, respectively, and see what happens?
5
So, what's he going to owe this guy if he wins? Disgusting.
8
If Rubio made such a mess of his finances, how does he think he's going to run the country? Appoint Braman as Secretary of the Treasury?
11
Truly disgusting.
'Rubio Government by the Rich, for the Rich...' if there ever would be.
'Rubio Government by the Rich, for the Rich...' if there ever would be.
7
Wonder who has more money and is more rich- Hillary or Rubio ?
1
The problem with politics in America today is that running for office is so expensive an individual must be beholding to rich contributors in order to win office. Get the money out of politics is the only solution for America. Hilary Clinton's $2Billion to run for Presient is an example of a disgusting state of affairs.
3
When Rubio hemmed and hawed like a stunned undergrad student when asked if he believed in evolution... kowtowing to the ultra doctrinaire right wing know-nothings, I understood who he was politically.
Now that I understand he is the sock-puppet of a latter-day billionaire robber baron, there is no doubt who he is morally.
Placate the lower class w phony morality while doing the bidding of the ultra rich w steady perks. What a guy...
When just one person, a billionaire, controls and "pays" you and your wife, and you "do not believe" there is a conflict, you're either a fool or a liar.
The conflict is Braman has bought his very own senator, to the disadvantage of the rest of your constituents. Bradman may not ask for anything personally: he doesn't need to. It's the fact you are his "boy", Marco. And make no mistake, you are his servant. Sold your integrity.
Is Jeb Bush better because his is older money unlike the Clintons or Mr Rubio and he doesn't need to grovel so patently? Puh-leazeee.
Democracy is in real question with Citizens United. Enough! Get $$$ out of politics w gov't financed elections. We are no better than banana republic.
Now that I understand he is the sock-puppet of a latter-day billionaire robber baron, there is no doubt who he is morally.
Placate the lower class w phony morality while doing the bidding of the ultra rich w steady perks. What a guy...
When just one person, a billionaire, controls and "pays" you and your wife, and you "do not believe" there is a conflict, you're either a fool or a liar.
The conflict is Braman has bought his very own senator, to the disadvantage of the rest of your constituents. Bradman may not ask for anything personally: he doesn't need to. It's the fact you are his "boy", Marco. And make no mistake, you are his servant. Sold your integrity.
Is Jeb Bush better because his is older money unlike the Clintons or Mr Rubio and he doesn't need to grovel so patently? Puh-leazeee.
Democracy is in real question with Citizens United. Enough! Get $$$ out of politics w gov't financed elections. We are no better than banana republic.
7
I am a conservative Republican from SW Fl, who also happens to be been in NYC.
Marco Rubio supports Amnesty and an unlimited lifting of any ceiling of H1B Visas.
Both will have a detrimental affect on the middle class American worker.
Hillary Clinton and Jeb Bush also support these views.
I cannot and will not vote for any candidate who shares these views.
The middle class is dying before our eyes.
Marco Rubio supports Amnesty and an unlimited lifting of any ceiling of H1B Visas.
Both will have a detrimental affect on the middle class American worker.
Hillary Clinton and Jeb Bush also support these views.
I cannot and will not vote for any candidate who shares these views.
The middle class is dying before our eyes.
6
Although Citizens United is the most egregious example of what's wrong with campaign finance, there were plenty of problems before that decision. What we need is a simple constitutional amendment that makes all campaigns publicly financed. No contributions from anyone. Because corporations are not people and money is NOT speech. If anyone needs convincing on how badly we need this amendment, just watch who opposes it (corporations and the Auber-wealthy) and who supports it (90% of all voters).
4
How many billionaire campaign funders count themselves fiscal conservatives! While they hold the profligate social spending of liberals in contempt yet they have no qualms about buying an America made in their own image with puppet pols who are their corporate employees. These are not candidates, they're clerks and factotums for the Supreme Court enabled super rich.
11
Rubio is breaking new ground. His closest advisor and sugar daddy is a car salesman. About time we had a car salesman to help on foreign policy. Same billionaire-sugardaddy funnels cash because Rubio couldn't handle his personal finances. Same sugar daddy, a rabid supporter of Israel, is also calling the shots on Middle East policy, as Rubio and his wife need the jobs for which they were unqualified,and continuing cash injections. Would anyone be taking him seriously if he weren't Hispanic? I think not.
32
Well, he's good looking and talks pretty.
1
So this man wants to run (ruin) the finances of the US.
Mr. Rubio left the Florida House of Representatives in 2008 with a net worth of $8,351, multiple mortgages and $115,000 in student debt. In his latest financial disclosure form, for 2013, he reported at least $450,000 in liabilities, including two mortgages and a line of credit.
Mr. Rubio left the Florida House of Representatives in 2008 with a net worth of $8,351, multiple mortgages and $115,000 in student debt. In his latest financial disclosure form, for 2013, he reported at least $450,000 in liabilities, including two mortgages and a line of credit.
15
$450,000 is peanuts when you include mortgages for homes in Florida and the DC area. And then there is student debt.
1
So - if would have gained several million as a Republican Senator - that would have better? You complain he has debt. You would complain if he was loaded with cash, as a paid off big money Republican. No way to please you liberals is there?
2
Can't seem to live within his means, as he expects the rest of us to do, now, can he?
2
Thank you to the joke we have as a 'Supreme' Court for giving us a 'government by oligarchy' where the rich and corporations can buy their favorite politician to represent them.
Scalia, Roberts, Alito and Thomas - selling us out one politician at a time.
Shame on you.
Scalia, Roberts, Alito and Thomas - selling us out one politician at a time.
Shame on you.
34
Citizens United, which was rightly decided [if you take the 1st amendment to mean what it says], has nothing to do with individual donations by billionaires.
But don't let the facts get in the way of your 2 minutes of hate!
But don't let the facts get in the way of your 2 minutes of hate!
2
The presidents that appointed them were the best investments rich Republicans ever made.
Patron? I didn't read beyond that because I felt too nauseated. We have 'patrons' now in America, do we? Oh, yes indeedy, we're in such great shape, America! How much longer can our 'democracy' last with such terribleness? Thanks, Supreme Court. Thanks for nothing.
10
"Pressed on his financial ties to Mr. Braman, Mr. Rubio said in an interview that he saw no ethical issue. “What is the conflict?” he asked. “I don’t ever recall Norman Braman ever asking for anything for himself.”
Good Lord: what am I missing here? Rubio used taxpayer funds to fund Mr. Braman's pet charities. OK, so Braman didn't give him a Rolex like Bob McDonald, but he bankrolled Rubio through poverty and student debt, and hired his wife for a job, just because. And you are going to tell me he wasn't buying influence?
Sure. If Rubio is getting things done for Braman or getting laws passed to help him with his car dealership work, how does that make him any different from the Kochs who pay to avoid energy regulations?
I find Rubio's nonchalant waving away any issue of conflict to be amamzingly sophomoric. Does he really think that this doesn't qualify as a campaign issue? If everybody can scream at Hillary for accepting Foundation donations in return for "alleged" favors (none documented) while she was at state, how is Braman's bankrolling the young Hispanic in return for some special favors for his pet causes and business interests any different?
We also don't know what Braman ultimately wants in supporting Rubio's run for the Presidency. Lord knows what chits, or favors, would be called in.
I sure hope we don't have to find out. Either Rubio is incredibly naïve or he' simply tone deaf--and I don't know which case is worse.
Good Lord: what am I missing here? Rubio used taxpayer funds to fund Mr. Braman's pet charities. OK, so Braman didn't give him a Rolex like Bob McDonald, but he bankrolled Rubio through poverty and student debt, and hired his wife for a job, just because. And you are going to tell me he wasn't buying influence?
Sure. If Rubio is getting things done for Braman or getting laws passed to help him with his car dealership work, how does that make him any different from the Kochs who pay to avoid energy regulations?
I find Rubio's nonchalant waving away any issue of conflict to be amamzingly sophomoric. Does he really think that this doesn't qualify as a campaign issue? If everybody can scream at Hillary for accepting Foundation donations in return for "alleged" favors (none documented) while she was at state, how is Braman's bankrolling the young Hispanic in return for some special favors for his pet causes and business interests any different?
We also don't know what Braman ultimately wants in supporting Rubio's run for the Presidency. Lord knows what chits, or favors, would be called in.
I sure hope we don't have to find out. Either Rubio is incredibly naïve or he' simply tone deaf--and I don't know which case is worse.
27
Go talk to Harry Reid about influence peddling. Get back to us with that one. Thanks.
I'll go do that the minute you do confront your entire Koch-funded party.
2
the worst is that there's a great deal of immorality and corruption going on here
1
The peril in a Rubio presidency isn't so much the public contributions Braman has made to his political career, rather it's in the untold financial 'support' he's given the Senator behind the scenes. Thanks to Citizen's United, the Republican-leaning Supreme Court has distorted the playing field such that political patrons the likes of Sheldon Adelman and Norman Braman have become the new normal. This particular situation however lends itself to the appearance that Rubio has been personally bought (and therefore personally indebted to) Braman. God only knows where the 'interest' on those private payments will end, once they become due.
28
Hundreds of thousands of dollars in personal financial aid and still close to a half million in debt? What am I and the other slobs like me doing wrong?
32
Just thinks kids. If you work hard, one day you'd be able to buy your own US senator.
If you think this is bad, check out the Florida legislature. It goes on sale to the highest bidder every year.
In fact, former Gov. Jeb Bush signed a bill written by a lobbyist for BellSouth (now AT&T) that removed the cap off of local landline rates.
Every year the stench of corruption and monied interests flows above the state capitol.
If you think this is bad, check out the Florida legislature. It goes on sale to the highest bidder every year.
In fact, former Gov. Jeb Bush signed a bill written by a lobbyist for BellSouth (now AT&T) that removed the cap off of local landline rates.
Every year the stench of corruption and monied interests flows above the state capitol.
39
Something has gone horribly wrong with the American election system.
27
So under the guise of protected speech, the right wing ideologues on the Supreme Court have essentially made billionaires the stand ins for 'we, the people.' But Marco Rubio could have a dozen billionaires purse stringing for him and he will remain what he is today -- an unqualified lightweight who places politics by rote over reality. He will never be president (Citizens United notwithstanding).
20
Someone please tell me: Why did the Democrats in the Senate allow Roberts and Alito and Scalia and Thomas to get on the Supreme Court?
1
The more of this that comes out the better. People are getting engaged or re-engaged in their government...the masses are getting fed up with the blatant corruption and legalized bribery.
11
Unfortunately, a putsch may be necessary to wrest control back from these latter day Croesuses.
Why vote if there is no longer one man one vote. I will but it is egregious that the moneyed power elite with their own agenda can manipulate the elections. The dysfunctional sycophantic Congress needs to block these folks from negatively influencing those running for president. Having said that I don't think Rubio will will because most latinos will not vote for him.
3
I guess Marco Rubio is off my list for consideration. There's always danger when one person or group dominates a candidate. With multiple donors no single one can rule the day. It sounds like Rubio is absolutely dependent on a single individual for the very air he breathes.
191
Oh, you are so wrong. I am certain that other American (or foreign oligarchs will support Mr. Rubio with $$$$$$.
Right, so it's Jeb. It's always better when several billionaires are in control. That makes it a true democracy of all the people.
> With multiple donors no single one can rule the day.
I don't feel any better about Rubio because he also takes money from Florida's private prison companies - do you?
I don't feel any better about Rubio because he also takes money from Florida's private prison companies - do you?
We are getting lured into a war with Iran. I highly doubt that the billionaires care about the soon-to-be ended or shattered lives of the Americans who will be sacrificed with the aid of their well financed puppets. Not to speak of our quality of life when we get to pay for yet another war.
50
We can all be sure that the children and grandchildren of the very wealthy will not become cannon fodder in any imminent war.
2
This is certainly a watershed era in our politics. We no longer are measuring the viability of candidates by their ideas, experience or character. We are only focusing on the "angels" and billionaire backers that turn a zero-level candidate into a front runner with financing from private fortunes. The purchasing of our government is thus becoming an absolute reality. Unless every candidate has an oligarch pulling the strings and injecting the cash, there is no longer any chance for him or her in the election.
This is an obscene perversion of democracy. We who presume to dictate to the world that our standard of government should be the shining example for other nations can hang our collective heads in shame that the Kochs, Adelsons and Bramans have more influence in choosing our elected officials that millions of voters. It is disgusting.
We may not even have a choice in 2016. The race for the sugar daddies and mommies is on, and may the richest candidate backer win, because whoever wins under this post-Citizens United system, the American people will be the losers.
This is an obscene perversion of democracy. We who presume to dictate to the world that our standard of government should be the shining example for other nations can hang our collective heads in shame that the Kochs, Adelsons and Bramans have more influence in choosing our elected officials that millions of voters. It is disgusting.
We may not even have a choice in 2016. The race for the sugar daddies and mommies is on, and may the richest candidate backer win, because whoever wins under this post-Citizens United system, the American people will be the losers.
49
Very well stated, Mr. Beeman....I truly hope Someone is listening to the lucidity of your words and thoughts. In concern for our Grandchildren, etc., I fear we....and they...are already the Losers. I have neither the Life left, now the wisdom to express. Please continue your words.
Rubio thinks this will help him. But it finishes him off and ends his chances just the way that Mitt Romney's captured speech to the 1% crowd killed his election chnac
10
Why don't they nominate Braman for President and cut out the middleman (Rubio). It's good business practice to go right to the source.
21
Excellent comment!
oz.
oz.
All the more reason to dislike Rubio... intensely.
The billionaires buy their yachts, castles, jets, islands and now, presidents thus, the country.
Economic terrorists yearning for the dark ages as they fancy themselves kings & noblemen...
History has taught them nothing despite militarizing local police.
The billionaires buy their yachts, castles, jets, islands and now, presidents thus, the country.
Economic terrorists yearning for the dark ages as they fancy themselves kings & noblemen...
History has taught them nothing despite militarizing local police.
20
wouldn't it be nice if we all could find a sugar daddy like marco did. here's to a campaign that goes absolutely nowhere. we definitely don't need marco anywhere near the White House.
39
"Mr. Rubio said the flow of donations from Mr. Braman had no effect on his decision-making as House speaker, adding that he would never give preferential treatment to a donor." Utter rubbish.
54
The monied elite buying politicians with unaccountable cash and gifts. Not too long ago this was illegal. John G. Roberts, Jr., Antonin Scalia, Anthony M. Kennedy, Clarence Thomas, Samuel A. Alito, Jr. have caused irreparable damage to our democracy implementing Citizens United. We are a nation of apathetic sheep ignoring corruption at the highest levels of government and consequences to which our grandchildren don't deserve.
81
It's sweet to blame the judicial folks for something our elected officials refuse to address. The democrats had both houses and the White House for two years, what did they do? Oh, it's much better as a campaign issue than to actually take action.
6
Citizens United? Paid for by the Kochs. Look no further. Unless you're blind.
3
Where do the evil Kochs rank on the list of top 50 US voters?
{Hint: they are not found there.}
{Hint: they are not found there.}
So securing public funds over the (republican) governor's objections for a political patron's pet charity or institution is not cronyism?
This is exactly one of the egregious failings of our system for political financing. Rich people give money to help get their guy elected and then expect them to direct public funds or influence on their behalf. Republican or Democrat - I don't care - it stinks.
This is exactly one of the egregious failings of our system for political financing. Rich people give money to help get their guy elected and then expect them to direct public funds or influence on their behalf. Republican or Democrat - I don't care - it stinks.
9
We do need know about the Norman Bramans in the lives of these candidates. We should also credit Senator Rubio for not ducking this inquiry, but all we have to do is analyze his own words to demonstrate how problematic this and other "friendship" really are for the citizenry. To wit:
"I don’t ever recall Norman Braman ever asking for anything for himself."
Of course not, he's well versed in the Roberts-Kennedy school of thought. No direct quid pro quos, everything else, well, that goes.
"But when Norman Braman brings it to you," Mr. Rubio said, "you take it seriously."
This strongly implies that when Jill Q. Public brings something to your attention, if she can even get that far in our system, that you don't. And won't unless she (legally) pays to play. Even if a fat cat doesn't get the decision he wants, he still gets a decision.
"We are close personal friends. They trust us."
I'll bet they do. They trust you to use the money they give you (campaign and personal) and the job they give your wife to do the things they want you to do as promptly as possible. I'll go so far as to say that the only millionaires or billionaires that politicians can legitimately call "close personal friends" are ones that never have and never will give them a penny.
And from the reporting:
"The money has flowed both ways."
Always. The super-wealthy rarely wish to run for office and serve in public life themselves and why would they, when they can just employ a puppet?
"I don’t ever recall Norman Braman ever asking for anything for himself."
Of course not, he's well versed in the Roberts-Kennedy school of thought. No direct quid pro quos, everything else, well, that goes.
"But when Norman Braman brings it to you," Mr. Rubio said, "you take it seriously."
This strongly implies that when Jill Q. Public brings something to your attention, if she can even get that far in our system, that you don't. And won't unless she (legally) pays to play. Even if a fat cat doesn't get the decision he wants, he still gets a decision.
"We are close personal friends. They trust us."
I'll bet they do. They trust you to use the money they give you (campaign and personal) and the job they give your wife to do the things they want you to do as promptly as possible. I'll go so far as to say that the only millionaires or billionaires that politicians can legitimately call "close personal friends" are ones that never have and never will give them a penny.
And from the reporting:
"The money has flowed both ways."
Always. The super-wealthy rarely wish to run for office and serve in public life themselves and why would they, when they can just employ a puppet?
11
Don't fool yourself about the money. Any winning candidate will be backed by millions and millions of dollars. Does Rubio believe in capitalism, or will he be yet another big-goverment socialist? Will Rubio enforce our borders and immigration law? Can Rubio defeat Jeb Bush and get the nomination? There are lots of interesting discoveries for the 2016 election, the least of which is that politics is a very expensive business.
2
"Mr. Braman and aides to Mr. Rubio have declined to say how much personal financial assistance he has provided to Mr. Rubio and his wife, directly or indirectly, but it appears to total in the hundreds of thousands of dollars.'
And yet Rubio won't back a minimum wage, is anti-union, against the ACA, anti-food stamps and all other assistance to the poorest among us. What is wrong with this picture?
And yet Rubio won't back a minimum wage, is anti-union, against the ACA, anti-food stamps and all other assistance to the poorest among us. What is wrong with this picture?
88
Little Marco thinks he's "special." Those other folks, living at minimum wage, just aren't . . . as far as he's concerned.
2
as an american Jew, i am deeply saddened by the outsize influence of certain wealthy Jewish families. their approach, often driven by unlimited support for israel does not represent most jewish voter's interests. ironically, i believe their presumably split loyalties between american and israeli interests will ultimately lead to an erosion of u.s. support for israel. 20 years from now, my kids, who are already questioning israeli approaches regionally, will start to migrate away from the support israel had from my generation. all the braman's and adelsons are doing is speeding up the process.
24
Our "constitutional founding fathers" are more like distant cousins living in Albuquerque.
Candidates should receive an equal amount of campaign funds from the federal government and should be prohibited from accepting any other funds.
The presidency shouldn't be for sale.
The presidency shouldn't be for sale.
10
Ok, who decides who is a candidate that is entitled to funding?
What a surprise, another pro-Israel political bankroller. How fitting to run this story when another one of their puppets, Mike Huckabee, pretty much announced he was running for President to make Israel happy. The Republican Party is utterly hopeless and paid for by a foreign power that really isn't our friend.
17
Miami businessman--auto dealer with a businessjust across the water from CUBA where the average cars are collectors items. Could be a boon both ways. Looking for a ready market. Not quite a quid-pro-quo---yet.
1
Its' not clear to me why this article ignores Braman's ties to the Israeli right. Braman is in a position to exert staggering influence on U.S. foreign policy -- thus affecting the security of every one of us, probably adversely.
Sign me: Jewish-American and Scared
Sign me: Jewish-American and Scared
62
Me too. It's too bad that the Citizens United Supremes don't read.
3
Yet all the aggrieved progressives who have commented herein will vote for Hillary notwithstanding the billions she's received from foreign governments with enough left over to give her and Bill a net worth in excess of $130 million. It's so refreshing to watch principle at play.
5
Both parties are infected w cash.
10million dollars?
I'm always amazed at how little money it takes to get that kind of access.
I'm always amazed at how little money it takes to get that kind of access.
4
as a jew it is disgusting to me that other jews would support the narrow, back-water values of this new crop of republicans running for presidents. my "wish" for them is that they spend all their money and receive nothing.
32
As a Jew, I just shrug my shoulders and say "hey, it's their money, as long as they earned it honestly, what they want to do with it is their business and not mine." Neither you, thehousedog, nor Braman reflect on me, only my actions do so.
1
thehousedog....Thanks for your Candor. As a Christian, it has been disgusting that these self-pronounced Righteous Republican are succeeding in "running". I agree with you....and wish that they, receiving all their money...will still accomplish nothing.
It is so unfair. Every billionaire wants his own pet President. But only one billionaire will get to have his own pet President in our Citizens United States of America. Wee the people, indeed. That leaves one question: if someone can be personally lifted, does that make him a lightweight?
6
Please name the candidate or prospective candidate who is not beholden to whatever rich patrons. Jeb Bush? Ted Cruz? Rand Paul?
1
@eostrov: Hillary Clinton?
You can become a billionaire owning car dealerships? I guess a billion dollars isn't what it used to be.
2
He also owns a politician.
1
Substitute "Clinton" for "Rubio" and "Soros" for "Braman" and Republicans wouldn't stop shrieking in protest. Ever.
Republicans are the worst kind of hypocrites.
Republicans are the worst kind of hypocrites.
37
Ole Norm is running around in the streets shouting "I got mine, I got mine!" Beat you to it.
5
Oh good, now a car dealer is making the call on domestic legislation and international diplomacy. What could go wrong? It is amazing how cheaply some of these guys can be bought.
48
What's with the elitism? Is a car dealer morally and intellectually inferior? Why?
Marco Rubio can't even manage his own finances, had to revert to junior college to stay in college and was for closed on. Good thing for Santa Claus. Errr Braman.
24
I hope Marco and Mr. Braman are as considerate and helping to all people who have a "immigration problem."
7
"He has subsidized Mr. Rubio's personal finances." If true, that fact alone should land Mr. Rubio and indictment.
50
Beloved (if overrated) Eagles coach Buddy Ryan had a running war with Braman, his boss, for most of his tenure coaching the Eagles (I think starting with the 1987 strike, when Ryan transparently sided with the players). He referred to him only as "the guy in France." His awful treatment of players pretty much kick-started big time free agency in the NFL, beginning with all-time great Reggie White. When Braman sold the team to Jeffrey Lurie in 1994, an entire city gave thanks.
Braman was a tone-deaf, high-handed, money-grubbing jerk even by the standards of professional sports team owners. Pretty much a perfect Republican big shot, come to think.
Braman was a tone-deaf, high-handed, money-grubbing jerk even by the standards of professional sports team owners. Pretty much a perfect Republican big shot, come to think.
38
absolutely correct. see my earlier comment under daalmo. Wouldn't it be something if Rubio did a motorcade on Broad Street with Braman beside him. Instant 200,000 votes for Hilary
I don't any problem here at all. I am fine with the situation. It's just democracy at work.
Am just wondering how I might be similarly adopted. Is there a signup list?
Signed,
Oldish orphan
Am just wondering how I might be similarly adopted. Is there a signup list?
Signed,
Oldish orphan
3
" It's just democracy at work."
Not according to this origin of the word.
late 16th century: from French démocratie, via late Latin from Greek dēmokratia, from dēmos ‘the people’ + -kratia ‘power, rule.’
It says nothing about the 1% having all the say, but specifically the PEOPLE HAVE THE POWER.
In a pig's eye, we do.
Not according to this origin of the word.
late 16th century: from French démocratie, via late Latin from Greek dēmokratia, from dēmos ‘the people’ + -kratia ‘power, rule.’
It says nothing about the 1% having all the say, but specifically the PEOPLE HAVE THE POWER.
In a pig's eye, we do.
1
Rubio is certainly a breath of fresh air,but before I get too impressed, I would like to hear his position on the separation of Church & State, Woman's Choice,Gay Rights,& minimum wage hikes.I am a Democrat that has become disillusioned with radical liberalism.They have become supporters of Hamas & anti Israel,their hostility towards the police,& the unconditional support of Obama, that I am sorry for supporting.It's time I took a hard look at the Republican Party.
5
Do you watch PBS channel? I happen to like it and find it educational and enlightening. The first time I heard about Rubio a few years ago or so, he was on television with his young children denigrating PBS. He sees it as valueless and spouts that if the government stopped paying for it commercial enterprise would step up to produce the same shows. I happen to disagree as I see less bias on the news and more of an effort to bring education up a notch. Does anybody really belive a commercial station would switch to documentaries? Just look at the "History Channel" - there is no history there 90 percent of the time.
So, you are right to wonder what this candidate is all about . Everybody should give candidates a good review. I know enough to understand he doesn't care how dumb the public is. He certainly won't get my vote.
So, you are right to wonder what this candidate is all about . Everybody should give candidates a good review. I know enough to understand he doesn't care how dumb the public is. He certainly won't get my vote.
1
I'm a former Democrat and I can tell you, it's a rare Republican who supports abortion rights and gay marriage. All you can do is trust in the Supreme Court, hold your nose, and vote for the lesser of two evils.
And yet, this pales in comparison to the off-shore billionaires and despots who have been funding the lifestyle and campaigns of the Clintons.
6
"...at the same time, he has subsidized Mr. Rubio’s personal finances, as the rising politician and his wife grappled with heavy debt"
------------------------------------------------
...while the President and Mrs. Obama paid off their own student loans themselves.
I echo the calls for exploration into why Rubio wasn't able to manage his own debt.
------------------------------------------------
...while the President and Mrs. Obama paid off their own student loans themselves.
I echo the calls for exploration into why Rubio wasn't able to manage his own debt.
80
that's why the GOP wants to reduce government. No government-no debt-easy to manage.
Barack Obama impressed a publisher, who touted his work as that of a brilliant young Kenyan. (Jury's still out on who actually wrote Obama's memoirs.)
Marco Rubio impressed a like-minded millionaire.
Sometimes, success is about impressing the right people.
Marco Rubio impressed a like-minded millionaire.
Sometimes, success is about impressing the right people.
Why do we continue to maintain the delusion that we are a democracy in light of stories like this? Braman, the Koch brothers, Sherman Adelson and all the rest each have their own paid proxies moving up the political food chain and implementing their agendas. How can I possibly believe that my vote or views can have any influence upon a politician who's receiving millions from donors and backers like these? Perhaps we should just put political offices up for sale to the highest bidder, which is probably the reality now, and be done with the facade of elections.
38
" How can I possibly believe that my vote or views can have any influence upon a politician who's receiving millions from donors and backers like these? "
You can't and that's the whole thing in a nutshell. Employees do what their employer says to do and have since the beginning of paid employment. Why would we ever think it is any different with "elected" officials. Oh yeah, I forgot, we also pay but apparently it isn't a living wage, so they don;t do what we say they should be doing. I'm sorry, I just can't afford to give away scholarships to places like Stanford on my puny retirement.
You can't and that's the whole thing in a nutshell. Employees do what their employer says to do and have since the beginning of paid employment. Why would we ever think it is any different with "elected" officials. Oh yeah, I forgot, we also pay but apparently it isn't a living wage, so they don;t do what we say they should be doing. I'm sorry, I just can't afford to give away scholarships to places like Stanford on my puny retirement.
Because elections are the only thing that can possibly save us.
1
... "Mr. Braman, a Republican with a strong distaste for wasteful government spending..."
So, Braman gets florida taxpayers to pay for a research institute named after mr Braman ? Welcome to Florida , folks. I guess Mr Braman could not possibly pay mr Braman makes his money in the antithesis of free market business: car dealerships sheltered from competition. Let the republican fan-boys keep up the fantasy of their support for the free market economic policies that they claim to love.the 80 million himself; that's 8% of one billion.
So, Braman gets florida taxpayers to pay for a research institute named after mr Braman ? Welcome to Florida , folks. I guess Mr Braman could not possibly pay mr Braman makes his money in the antithesis of free market business: car dealerships sheltered from competition. Let the republican fan-boys keep up the fantasy of their support for the free market economic policies that they claim to love.the 80 million himself; that's 8% of one billion.
5
Rubio, isn't Presidential material, not by any stretch of the imagination; never mind his billionaire backer.
His being "bought" is no big surprise, "buying" what he says is the astonishment...
His being "bought" is no big surprise, "buying" what he says is the astonishment...
10
Why these billionaires do not run for political office like congress or for white house? They want to king makers but not a king. Democracy in America in coffin box. May be we need more prayer from our political evangelical churches.
1
From his faked status as a refugee to his eager willingness to do anything for his patron, or owner, Rubio has demonstrated his complete lack of qualifications to hold any elected office, let alone president.
Oh, wait a minute, that was the 20th century. Now? He's perfect.
(Wonder what he drives...)
Oh, wait a minute, that was the 20th century. Now? He's perfect.
(Wonder what he drives...)
9
Yikes, what a family sugar daddy Rubio has. Bet he can't wait to shape our government's foreign and domestic policy! Yikes!
10
"In Mr. Braman, a Republican with a strong distaste for wasteful government spending, an ardent commitment to Israel and a seemingly limitless bank account, Mr. Rubio found a devoted sponsor."
Now we know why Rubio is pushing the Israeli extreme right wing Nethanyahu agenda. He is bought and paid for by another extremist Billionaire. What a fiasco US politics has become since 'Citizen's United'. Too bad the we can't extend 'truth in lending' to Presidential candidates. If we did, we would see a scrolling banner under Rubio that stated " Sponsored by "Billionaire Braman".
Now we know why Rubio is pushing the Israeli extreme right wing Nethanyahu agenda. He is bought and paid for by another extremist Billionaire. What a fiasco US politics has become since 'Citizen's United'. Too bad the we can't extend 'truth in lending' to Presidential candidates. If we did, we would see a scrolling banner under Rubio that stated " Sponsored by "Billionaire Braman".
56
Senator Rubio should be indicted for bribery. Accepting money to vote a certain way is corrupt. This is the perfect example of influence peddling.
I thank Times for bring this and other stories of corrupt politicians into view.
Where is the middle class decrying the fact that they can not be heard in Congress? Oh, let's not distract them from something important like Deflategate or frozen embyos of the rich and famous...
I thank Times for bring this and other stories of corrupt politicians into view.
Where is the middle class decrying the fact that they can not be heard in Congress? Oh, let's not distract them from something important like Deflategate or frozen embyos of the rich and famous...
20
A billionaire who says he has gotten "excellent service from them", i.e. the Rubios. How dumb does he think everyone is?
And at the end of the day, Rubio will never be president. He is like Santorum - luckily that is not enough.
And at the end of the day, Rubio will never be president. He is like Santorum - luckily that is not enough.
22
America has the best politicians that money can buy.
6
Actually the politicians are in the main quite mediocre. I think a higher quality specimen can be hired or leased.
1
We get to vote every two years. The super rich can "vote" whenever they want and in many cases, make a profit on their "vote".
In other words there is one kind of "free speech" that give one a voice in choosing one's representative. There is another kind of "free speech" that can put money in a representative's pocket as well as the pocket of the person "speaking" with their money.
In other words there is one kind of "free speech" that give one a voice in choosing one's representative. There is another kind of "free speech" that can put money in a representative's pocket as well as the pocket of the person "speaking" with their money.
10
"Mr. Braman, a Republican...an ardent commitment to Israel"
Let's have a bit of prospective here - remember all of the hysteria back in 1996 when Al Gore was bludgeoned by the GOP for taking funds from some Buddhist monks and painted as a lackey for Chinese interests?
However, concerns today about foreign influence in Washington are not not fatuous hysteria, but real because we have billionaire donors like Sheldon Adelson and Norman Braman who are transparently clear about their "fervent" support of Israel and the all too real quid pro quo relationship with politicians like Marco Rubio.
You would think that nearly a decade and a half of conflict in the Middle East would have taught the American public and our mass media the lesson that the last thing our nation needs to to have its foreign policy dictated by Jerusalem.
Let's have a bit of prospective here - remember all of the hysteria back in 1996 when Al Gore was bludgeoned by the GOP for taking funds from some Buddhist monks and painted as a lackey for Chinese interests?
However, concerns today about foreign influence in Washington are not not fatuous hysteria, but real because we have billionaire donors like Sheldon Adelson and Norman Braman who are transparently clear about their "fervent" support of Israel and the all too real quid pro quo relationship with politicians like Marco Rubio.
You would think that nearly a decade and a half of conflict in the Middle East would have taught the American public and our mass media the lesson that the last thing our nation needs to to have its foreign policy dictated by Jerusalem.
41
Oh my! They support Israel. Why can't Israel be more like Iraq, Syria Yemen, Saudi, Iran, Libya, Egypt, or Sudan? How dare they be the only democracy in that region. How arrogant!
2
Democracy for sale! Democracy for sale!
Can we finally just admit that our Citizens United country is a plutocracy?
If I only had more FREE SPEECH like Braman! What a country it could be if our votes were equal! But I'm just a regular joe! If only I was a corporation or billionaire, you know, a REAL American!
Can we finally just admit that our Citizens United country is a plutocracy?
If I only had more FREE SPEECH like Braman! What a country it could be if our votes were equal! But I'm just a regular joe! If only I was a corporation or billionaire, you know, a REAL American!
9
I feel better that corporations are in control. It is better for business and our economy. Isn't it obvious that democracy, where the people's judgement is operative just doesn't work ? Look at whom they elect!
2
"Look at whom they elect!"
Funny you should ask. They elect the very puppets who apparently make bad judgements on behalf of the people, but make great judgements on behalf of business, No wonder business is booming for the 1% (I'd make that bold caps if I could about 72 point type).
Funny you should ask. They elect the very puppets who apparently make bad judgements on behalf of the people, but make great judgements on behalf of business, No wonder business is booming for the 1% (I'd make that bold caps if I could about 72 point type).
Multiple houses, yachts, jets, trophy wives and mistresses, and even professional sports teams seem so yesterday for the Truly Blessed and Wealthy. Now everyone wants to own their Personal Politician. it used to be that bribing a judge was enough, but oh no, now these people aspire to own their Personal Congressman or Senator, with hopes of owning a Personal President. Thank's SCOTUS, you've done your job, helped to kill democracy, and ushered in the Age of the Oligarchs.
14
Fortunately the interest of the United States are perfectly aligned with Mr. Braman's business and political agenda.
Additionally Mr. Rubio has promised (unofficially) never again to consume fluids while on national TV. The walking and chewing gum representation is still in draft form.
Additionally Mr. Rubio has promised (unofficially) never again to consume fluids while on national TV. The walking and chewing gum representation is still in draft form.
1
Typifies the way US politics is owned and run by a few billionaires - shows that House of Cards was not mere fiction
2
Another bought politician. What else is new. Mr. Braman is not interested in the state of our country or Mr. Rubio for that matter he is just interested in buying influence with Mr. Rubio so he will fight for the billionaires interest in no taxes what so ever.
4
Did you get the "accounting" here...?
"Big Daddy" pays Mrs. Rubio enough $$ for her "consulting", so she may "lend" this to her husband, in order to allow Marco to "reimburse" Big Daddy for use of Big Daddy's private jet....
So, who would dare call this "money cycle" corruption...?
"Big Daddy" pays Mrs. Rubio enough $$ for her "consulting", so she may "lend" this to her husband, in order to allow Marco to "reimburse" Big Daddy for use of Big Daddy's private jet....
So, who would dare call this "money cycle" corruption...?
18
Birds of a feather? Chickens coming home to roost? As Rubio gets scrutiny, questions abound. This tidbit from the WaPo adds important info to Rubio's personal financial problems and poor choice of friends:
"At the moment, Rubio and Rivera are linked on paper through their joint ownership of a home in Florida’s capital, Tallahassee. The house has been a cause for embarrassment, with Rubio and Rivera having been served with a foreclosure notice in 2010 after failing to make mortgage payments."
http://www.washingtonpost.com/lifestyle/style/for-sen-marco-rubio-a-ques...
The Times might want to add a link. Kudos for fine investigative journalism. Rubio may have a baby face but like a baby, there's a stink when you get close.
"At the moment, Rubio and Rivera are linked on paper through their joint ownership of a home in Florida’s capital, Tallahassee. The house has been a cause for embarrassment, with Rubio and Rivera having been served with a foreclosure notice in 2010 after failing to make mortgage payments."
http://www.washingtonpost.com/lifestyle/style/for-sen-marco-rubio-a-ques...
The Times might want to add a link. Kudos for fine investigative journalism. Rubio may have a baby face but like a baby, there's a stink when you get close.
20
@TheraP: You know, the Republicans are always screaming (wrongly) about how the government must budget and work with the money it has just like a family would. Well, I guess they better not model that family after Rubio. He doesn't sound like a good money manager at all, now does he, if he can't even handle his own debt. What a loser. He thinks he's a winner with this sugar daddy. But it only makes him a loser. A real, big loser.
2
gosh, in exchange for contributions Rubio tries to "funnel" money into CANCER RESEARCH and genome projects. The corruption, the corruption I say.
1
Braman fought against the new Marlin stadium and lost. It is just as big a rip off of Miami as he said it would be. So at least in this case he was against corporate cronyism and government waste.
2
It seems all politicians have strings to wealthy donors.
- Rubio: Braman, but transparency on what he has asked for and his giving.
- Clinton: More than one and involves billionaires from other countries and no transparency.
Don't be a hypocrite. At least be honest about what is happening.
- Rubio: Braman, but transparency on what he has asked for and his giving.
- Clinton: More than one and involves billionaires from other countries and no transparency.
Don't be a hypocrite. At least be honest about what is happening.
7
So throughout this entire story, Rubio and Braman completely deny that Braman has any legislative agenda that he is asking Rubio - or anyone - to push, Then at the end of the story we're treated to news that the Florida Senate just voted favorably on a bill favoring auto dealers - aka Mr. Braman. Mr. Braman's response: "that was fast" as in "wow - I said jump, they immediately asked how high and how soon." And he expects us to believe there is no quid pro quo and he's just doing this all out of the goodness of his heart. Wow.
9
It figures a used car dealer would finance this Rubio. "Citizens United" might be among the top five worst Supreme Court decisions.
6
Rubio, like all of his counterparts, is for sale ....for a price.
Obscenely rich donors, including a group of rightwing or right- leaning American Jews ( I am Jewish)who want a piece of the political action in their old age..are buying up Republican politicians and feeding them a steady diet of the worst of Israeli right wing politics.
These are matches made in political heaven. The politician gets
to be aggressively anti Democrat, anti-Obama, aggressively and mindlessly "Israel right or wrong" (great for Evangelical Christian base), even mindlessly anti-immigration reform...and the donor gets what he wants...a mouthpiece, center stage and the control of a presidential candidate...and a few favors.
Jews in this country have always voted Democratic...and continue to vote Democratic (read liberal) by a two to one margin...sometimes higher. They will continue to do so. But never mind, the game goes on.
Rubio blasted Obama about showing "hostility" towards Israel, which is the "line" Netanyahu feeds his American audience. Rubio's education on this subject began in 2010 when he and Bramen were in Israel together.
Rubio introduced, no doubt at the behest of his right wing donors and the Netanyahu PR machine in great haste, an amendment qualifying any nuclear deal with Iran, but withdrew it just a day later when the Senate Foreign Relations Committee unanimously passed a comprehensive bill.
It's all up for sale, and the Norm Bramens of the world are buying.
Obscenely rich donors, including a group of rightwing or right- leaning American Jews ( I am Jewish)who want a piece of the political action in their old age..are buying up Republican politicians and feeding them a steady diet of the worst of Israeli right wing politics.
These are matches made in political heaven. The politician gets
to be aggressively anti Democrat, anti-Obama, aggressively and mindlessly "Israel right or wrong" (great for Evangelical Christian base), even mindlessly anti-immigration reform...and the donor gets what he wants...a mouthpiece, center stage and the control of a presidential candidate...and a few favors.
Jews in this country have always voted Democratic...and continue to vote Democratic (read liberal) by a two to one margin...sometimes higher. They will continue to do so. But never mind, the game goes on.
Rubio blasted Obama about showing "hostility" towards Israel, which is the "line" Netanyahu feeds his American audience. Rubio's education on this subject began in 2010 when he and Bramen were in Israel together.
Rubio introduced, no doubt at the behest of his right wing donors and the Netanyahu PR machine in great haste, an amendment qualifying any nuclear deal with Iran, but withdrew it just a day later when the Senate Foreign Relations Committee unanimously passed a comprehensive bill.
It's all up for sale, and the Norm Bramens of the world are buying.
25
Oh, it takes more than one billionaire behind you to become President.
3
He is courting Sheldon Adelson as well.
1
Another Republican who has spent himself deep into debt enabled by a puppet master with money. If only it were unusual.
6
correct me if i am wrong but isn't Norman Braman the Eagles owner who refused to give a raise to Pro Bowler and Hall of Famer, Reggie White, who in turn bolted from Philadelphia for Green Bay? Hard to believe he didn't have the money. He disrespected the players. Treated them as trash.
3
Choke! Pro sports players, some of the most uneducated people I've been around with the highest salaries. Like I could care he didn't get a raise from Braman. He used the free market, quit, and got hired somewhere else. Good for him. Sounds like you want welfare for already highly paid sports figures.
He doesn't want anything...except lower property taxes (which help him) and a higher sales tax (which hurts the poor). And Marco gave it to hum. Nope. Nothing unseemly going on here.
8
The sad day has come: leaders of emerging democracies would be well advised to look to the EU for a model of democracy, not the US. Thanks to John Roberts and his pals at SCOTUS, Israel and its supporters can buy a US senator and openly give him or her money to vote their way.
5
SPQR, I also think that this relationship between Rubio and Braman smells. But in spite of your bringing in anti-Israel comments to everything you write, this has NOTHING to do with Israel. Because of the relatively large population of Jews in Florida, ANY candidate for office there is likely to support Israel. And your bringing SCOTUS into this proves exactly the opposite of what you are trying to prove. All 3 Jewish Justices voted AGAINST "Citizens United", so your argument makes no sense.
1
The Koch brothers, Sheldon Adelson, now this guy. And god knows how many other string-pulling billionaires we don't even know about. But, hey, let's fixate on the icky money going to the Clinton Foundation for its charitable work.
3
You forgot Soros.
Sadly, this is where we've come to - when we elect a politician, like it or not we're also voting for their financial backers. Braman, the Kochs and yes, Soros are just as much on this ballot as anyone else. Plus numerous others we'll never know of because of all the dark money flowing into superPAC coffers. We supply the votes, but the money supplies the voice - I mean, "speech". Guess which grabs the politician's ear?
3
All it takes is one billionaire to finance a campaign for president. In 2012, Sheldon Adelson spent about $15 million on Newt Gingrich’s campaign, keeping him in the running for the nomination well after disappointing performances in the primaries and low polls. Altogether, Adelson donated at least $93 million to 17 different super PACs and political groups in general that year.
In addition, 0.01% of the people contributed about 42% of the political contributions in 2012. If money is speech, as the Supreme Court has ruled, some of us are shouting very loud. If you cannot afford a few extra millions you might have for a candidate, at least educate yourself about the candidates and vote.
In addition, 0.01% of the people contributed about 42% of the political contributions in 2012. If money is speech, as the Supreme Court has ruled, some of us are shouting very loud. If you cannot afford a few extra millions you might have for a candidate, at least educate yourself about the candidates and vote.
3
Does my vote count? I live in NY, please explain to me how my vote makes a difference in a presidential election.
Mr Braman purchased Mr Rubio and is making use of his purchase. As long as we the people allow this type of arrangement, I don't blame him. The problem is its incredibly outrageous to watch the hypocrisy as people like Rubio and all the other bought republicans squeal about the Clinton foundation accepting money's while Hillary was Secretary of State and Yada, Yada,Yada. Then they are joined in by the hypocritical news media who are just as beholden to the billionaire owners of their media organization.
4
This sounds a lot like the shenanigans that Sheldon Silver and Dean Skelos have been caught in, no? Can we send Preet Bharara down there?
5
How politics has evolved. Of course, money and powerful people have always mattered in elections but now the key to victory lies with a few billionaires and who they decide to fund. It matters less and less what polls show because so much of how the voter assesses the candidate will result from a money-constructed mirage.
We appear to be witnessing the rise of an America truly controlled by the very wealthiest few - the plutocracy of the United States.
We appear to be witnessing the rise of an America truly controlled by the very wealthiest few - the plutocracy of the United States.
6
My take is different. It is a pity that an ordinary person of extraordinary skill and talent cannot run for president without a sugar daddy -- all the others candidates have sugar daddies.
I'm not a fan of Rubio, in fact, I am rooting for Bernie Sanders, who was thrilled to get a couple of million dollars. He will have a voice built on years of coalition building. That is the brave man, the man who understands how the world works. Getting treats from billionaires is not how the world works.
I'm not a fan of Rubio, in fact, I am rooting for Bernie Sanders, who was thrilled to get a couple of million dollars. He will have a voice built on years of coalition building. That is the brave man, the man who understands how the world works. Getting treats from billionaires is not how the world works.
3
Our politicians have no shame or sense of prestige or pride. They are on auction block, the billionaires bid them and they are sold. Practically the billionaires are running for white house by proxy (Koch bothers vs Sheldon vs Braman vs Soros ) . Shame on these politicians for sale or for auction or for rent. These politicians are not free persons . They are slaves of these billionaires.
6
Why do Floridians keep electing these worthless politicians. Don't they care about their future?
3
OK, so the standard now is to assume a quid pro quo because donations are made for ? Or do we stop the insinuations and let political speech talk no matter the language. Unless this is cleaned up we all need to ignore one side saying the other is corrupt. Right now the system is corrupt, we cannot fault the players for playing the game the way we the people have allowed it to be. Don't like it Vote for candidates that will do something about it, uh I don't think Mr Rubio is one of them...
Political coverage is no longer about issues. It's about who's winning the money race. Disgraceful and discouraging. We might as well skip the middleman and just give the presidency to the highest bidder.
4
"And, at the same time, he has subsidized Mr. Rubio’s personal finances, as the rising politician and his wife grappled with heavy debt and big swings in their income."
Seems like Rubio cannot manage his own family budget.
Why should he be trusted with the country's?
Seems like Rubio cannot manage his own family budget.
Why should he be trusted with the country's?
5
Very confusing.
Rubio running as an immigrant (which he, apparently is not)
Yet wants to deport all the immigrants.
What is it I am missing?
The hypocrisy is alarmingly transparent.
Thank you.
Rubio running as an immigrant (which he, apparently is not)
Yet wants to deport all the immigrants.
What is it I am missing?
The hypocrisy is alarmingly transparent.
Thank you.
5
This reads like "House of Cards"
3
This is exactly the kind of watchdog reporting that we need from The Times: Lift the rock, shine a light, name names, and let the voters -- or the feds -- ultimately decide the propriety or lack thereof.
Unfortunately, legalized bribery exists across the political spectrum -- including with New York's very own Governor Quid Pro Cuomo -- so it's hardly unique to Sen. Rubio. After all, we're all forced to live in the sleazy netherworld of Citizens United, whether we like it or not.
It would be far more disturbing, for instance, if the senator had a global slush fund, accepted huge amounts of money from anonymous foreign donors who know the meaning of pay to play, did his government emailing from a private server in his home, stonewalled congressional oversight, and made sure that any electronic evidence was erased.
But there's no one with that level of audacity who would dare run for president, is there?
Unfortunately, legalized bribery exists across the political spectrum -- including with New York's very own Governor Quid Pro Cuomo -- so it's hardly unique to Sen. Rubio. After all, we're all forced to live in the sleazy netherworld of Citizens United, whether we like it or not.
It would be far more disturbing, for instance, if the senator had a global slush fund, accepted huge amounts of money from anonymous foreign donors who know the meaning of pay to play, did his government emailing from a private server in his home, stonewalled congressional oversight, and made sure that any electronic evidence was erased.
But there's no one with that level of audacity who would dare run for president, is there?
I'm surprised that another American politician is in bed with a billionaire. You would think we had bought-and-paid-for politicians in a system of influence-peddling and crony capitalism, not a democracy where ordinary citizens have a say in what happens.
4
It is going to be difficult for people to dig up dirt on Norman Braman. He is not an oligarch or selfish in any way. Mr. Braman has given back repeatedly to his community as opposed to Foreign Governments that give through the Clinton Foundation funds that do not benefit their constituents, but that enable them to justify access and the related political favors of a likely future U.S. President as well as the lobbying efforts of a former U.S. President. At least we know that Braman supports business, philanthropy, education and healthcare. As a former NFL owner, he is clearly also a sportsman. What's not to like? It would be great if all political donors had such lofty humanitarian goals and serial history of giving back. After reading this story I certainly have a much higher opinion of Marco Rubio and I am pleased that Norman Braman had the foresight to affirmatively support and even mentor Marco Rubio's professional development as well as his political ambitions. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.
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Mark,
When only a few of your countrymen can essentially call the shots over millions of others, it is a travesty for democracy. Who cares if Braman is possibly a fabulous guy? ONE person should not call the shots. Democracy is for everyone.
What's not to like? Wait until Braman and you disagree on something important to you, and then you'll see.
When only a few of your countrymen can essentially call the shots over millions of others, it is a travesty for democracy. Who cares if Braman is possibly a fabulous guy? ONE person should not call the shots. Democracy is for everyone.
What's not to like? Wait until Braman and you disagree on something important to you, and then you'll see.
Anyone who can support lowering property or income taxes and offsetting it by raising sales taxes is an evil mean spirited low life. This article lays out exactly why Marco Rubio is completely disqualified to be our President.
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So the US gets a present from Braman, and they must accept this. This reminds me of the 11th century when the lord of the manor would give presents to the peasants.
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And what sway would Mr Braman have over American policy decisions under a president Rubio? Quite a scary thought when world affecting policy decisions might be influenced by one man who was not elected, but who bought his way into that position.
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As we now name sports stadiums by their corporate sponsors, may we also name politicians by their billionaire sponsors, in this case The Braman Marco Rubio campaign.
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"The money has flowed both ways. Mr. Rubio has steered taxpayer funds to Mr. Braman’s favored causes..."
It will be presumed that Rubio is paying him back, just as it is presumed that the Clintons pay back, but it is just as likely that the candidates get donor money because they agree as it is they agree because they get donor money. [Insert cynical sarcastic reply here]
It will be presumed that Rubio is paying him back, just as it is presumed that the Clintons pay back, but it is just as likely that the candidates get donor money because they agree as it is they agree because they get donor money. [Insert cynical sarcastic reply here]
I am filled with joy, my heart beats a happy rhythm, I am filled with a warm fuzzy feeling. Marco found his sugar daddy. Marco, hope it lasts and you find happiness.
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Marco was created by Branan from nothing to somebody. Branan owns his soul. What a travesty? A biillionare spends millions create a stooge to foster his interests and now ambition has no limit. It worked in Florida- the logic is it should work for the Presidency as well. $80 million state funding for a private University whereas the tax payer funded public universities are struggling? $5 million for a private cancer hospital? Financial support for Rubio family? The list goes on...you don't need to be a rocket scientist to close them dots. Hope Marco is exposed during the primary so that the voters know that they are voting for Branan.
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Once the very rich amused themselves with racing cars and Thoroughbred horses; limiting their damage to the track.
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Listening to Rubio's speech at the South Carolina Freedom Festival (or whatever tacky name its called), I found little to disagree with . . . because it was trite and fluffy--all platitudes and bromides and cliches. Virtually no specifics, but he checked all the requisite boxes (Obamacare, guns, God, that we're overtaxed and over-regulated, hawkish foreign policy, loves Israel, etc).
Republican leaders and many--if not most--everyday Republicans live in a bubble and his speech only reinforces that fact. That Rubio and his comrades feel the need to repeat all this rests on the assumption that Democrats don't love America, don't support Israel, won't fight terrorism, will take away your guns, and will implement something like France's 70% tax rate.
Rubio seems like a decent guy and obviously has a long future ahead of him. He is not a know-nothing as I would describe Huckabee, Cruz, Paul or Jindal (not that they're not smart, but they're full of religious fundamentalism, conspiracy theories and crackpot constitutionalism). 2016 is not going to be his year, but perhaps in 2020 or 2024 he can be the GOP's Bill Clinton--a young, bright, savvy leader who steadies the ship and brings the party out of the wilderness.
Republican leaders and many--if not most--everyday Republicans live in a bubble and his speech only reinforces that fact. That Rubio and his comrades feel the need to repeat all this rests on the assumption that Democrats don't love America, don't support Israel, won't fight terrorism, will take away your guns, and will implement something like France's 70% tax rate.
Rubio seems like a decent guy and obviously has a long future ahead of him. He is not a know-nothing as I would describe Huckabee, Cruz, Paul or Jindal (not that they're not smart, but they're full of religious fundamentalism, conspiracy theories and crackpot constitutionalism). 2016 is not going to be his year, but perhaps in 2020 or 2024 he can be the GOP's Bill Clinton--a young, bright, savvy leader who steadies the ship and brings the party out of the wilderness.
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Rubio wouldn't answer when asked if he believed in evolution.
Indeed, he IS inthrall to the know nothings, at a time of revolutionary atomic energy, super computers, etc.
Indeed, he IS inthrall to the know nothings, at a time of revolutionary atomic energy, super computers, etc.
Battle of the Century: Adelson vs. Braman!
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Mr Braman dislikes Government excess as he defines it and will advocate the repeal of Obamacare and Rubio as President will duly oblige therefore depriving 10 million Americans of affordable health care.
Yet Mr Braman supports Israel and will no doubt encourage Rubio to continue or even increase the annual grant of $3.5 billion paid for by the American taxpayer for Defence purposes.
This grant indirectly supports universal healthcare in Israel including support for abortions as if Israel had to pay for its own Defence ,benefits such as universal health care would not be sustainable.
There is no doubt that there is a conflict of interest and double standards in this relationship.
Having said that Rubios message is that he is the right man for the future ,yet his agenda particularly on economic measures, foreign policy and immigration is dictated by decades of prejudice.
Yet Mr Braman supports Israel and will no doubt encourage Rubio to continue or even increase the annual grant of $3.5 billion paid for by the American taxpayer for Defence purposes.
This grant indirectly supports universal healthcare in Israel including support for abortions as if Israel had to pay for its own Defence ,benefits such as universal health care would not be sustainable.
There is no doubt that there is a conflict of interest and double standards in this relationship.
Having said that Rubios message is that he is the right man for the future ,yet his agenda particularly on economic measures, foreign policy and immigration is dictated by decades of prejudice.
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Keep in mind that a large part of our aid to Israel isn't a check we write them. It's money that gets spent in defense factories here in the States (then stuff shipped to Israel). Congress wouldn't "support" Israel if they weren't supporting their homeboys at Halliburton, American General, Lockheed-Martin, et al.
This is not a man bites dog story. Politicians are raising funds from the wealthy all the time. It is hard to get around Manhattan with the President attending so many fundraisers at the Masters of the Universe in Manhattan. I need hardly add Hillary and Bill who have a Foundation no less. Jeb and Marco are also clearly in the hunt. Politicians who cannot raise money don't run for the presidency. The days of Mr. Smith goes to Washington are over.
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"Mr. Smith goes to Washington" existed only in fiction.
To Steve who points out that Mr. Smith goes to washington is fiction. It's a metaphor.
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Rubio's leash looks exceedingly short though.....
Marco Rubio - He is the most incompetent Senator and Politician around. I hope he leaves or and gets voted out of the Senate. I did not vote for hime and embarrased to have him as a Senator of our State.
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Great another politician who is bought and paid for... What a sad state of our political system. Not about ideas but all about money...
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Braman the man who makes billions off selling luxurious car exhaust, has teemed up with a Anthropogenic Global Warming denier, Marco Rubio? LOL, if it were a souther novel based on cronyism or nepotism that would be one thing but unfortunately it is non-fiction. Imagine what Rubio could do to the EPA for Braman if Rubio ever got elected president.
By the way, Braman's recent attempt to steal the Museum of Contemporary Art in North Miami and move it closer to wealth in South Beach failed… and I have no doubt that Marco Rubio will never be elected President of the US, at least not in this universe… maybe in a parallel one. Once again Braman will fail.
By the way, Braman's recent attempt to steal the Museum of Contemporary Art in North Miami and move it closer to wealth in South Beach failed… and I have no doubt that Marco Rubio will never be elected President of the US, at least not in this universe… maybe in a parallel one. Once again Braman will fail.
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This is the "Buying a Politician for Dummies" version of legalized corruption.
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Money, money and more money. Special interests rule. Will the American people be so stupid to again take a freshman senator and let him loose to do more damage then O?
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What is the solution to eliminating billionaires selecting candidates? Publicly financed elections. But the supreme court sanctions legalized bribery, so what to do next? Amend the constitution - the supreme court could not override that.
That movement must be entirely grass-roots (you and me) because politicians are invested in the corrupt status quo. At this point the real problem will be public indifference to corruption .
My personal experience with this subject is that Americans are perfectly fine with financial corruption - it really does not bother them a bit, even though they will publicly complain about it. What really gets the public riled up is sex - catch a politician with his zipper down and the press and public go crazy.
That movement must be entirely grass-roots (you and me) because politicians are invested in the corrupt status quo. At this point the real problem will be public indifference to corruption .
My personal experience with this subject is that Americans are perfectly fine with financial corruption - it really does not bother them a bit, even though they will publicly complain about it. What really gets the public riled up is sex - catch a politician with his zipper down and the press and public go crazy.
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