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- Patricia SturdevantWednesday Oct 17, 2012 4:54 pm In Conference Call, Romney Urged Businesses To Tell Their Employees How to Vote By Mike Elk In a June 6, 2012 conference call posted on the anti-union National Federation of Independent Business’s website, Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney instructed employers to tell their employees how to vote in the upcoming election. Romney was addressing a group of self-described "small-business owners." Twenty-six minutes into the call, after making a lengthy case that President Obama's first term has been bad for business, Romney said: I hope you make it very clear to your employees what you believe is in the best interest of your enterprise and therefore their job and their future in the upcoming elections. And whether you agree with me or you agree with President Obama, or whatever your political view, I hope, I hope you pass those along to your employees. The call raises the question of whether the Romney campaign is complicit in the corporate attempts to influence employees' votes that have been recently making headlines. On Sunday, In These Times broke the news that Koch Industries mailed at least 45,000 employees a voter information packet that included a flyer endorsing Romney and a letter warning, “Many of our more than 50,000 U.S. employees and contractors may suffer the consequences [of a bad election result], including higher gasoline prices, runaway inflation, and other ills.” Last week, Gawker obtained an email in which the CEO of Westgate Resorts, Florida billionaire David Siegel, informed his 7,000 employees that an Obama victory would likely lead to layoffs at his company. This week, MSNBC’s Up with Chris Hayes unveiled an email by ASG Software Solutions CEO Arthur Allen in which he, too, warned employees that an Obama second term would spell layoffs. In the June call, Romney went on to reassure his audience that it is perfectly legal for them to talk to their employees about how to vote: Nothing illegal about you talking to your employees about what you believe is best for the business, because I think that will figure into their election decision, their voting decision and of course doing that with your family and your kids as well. He's correct that such speech is now legal for the first time ever, thanks to the Citizen United ruling, which overturned previous Federal Election Commission laws that prohibited employers from political campaigning among employees. In the post-Citizens United era, “there is not much political protection for at-will employees in the private sector workplace,” explains University of Marquette Law Professor Paul Secunda, a pro-union labor lawyer. "It is conceivable, under the current legal regime, that an employer like Koch could actually get away with forcing his employees, on pains of termination, to campaign for a given candidate or political party." Romney provided his call audience with a number of talking points to relay to their employees: I particularly think that our young kids--and when I say young, I mean college-age and high-school age--they need to understand that America runs on a strong and vibrant business [sic] ... and that we need more business growing and thriving in this country. They need to understand that what the president is doing by borrowing a trillion dollars more each year than what we spend is running up a credit card that they’re going to have to pay off and that their future is very much in jeopardy by virtue of the policies that the president is putting in place. So I need you to get out there and campaign. Beyond Romney’s statements on the call, it's unclear whether his election operation is actively coordinating workplace campaigning by businesses. Romney press secretary Andrea Saul did not respond to In These Times’ request for comment. However, the conference call raises troubling questions about what appears to be a growing wave of workplace political pressure unleashed by Citizens United.33 minutes ago
- Olwen Johnsonhttp://www.addictinginfo.org/2012/10/18/new-romney-tape-mitt-tells-ceos-to-pressure-employees-to-vote-for-him-audio/about an hour ago
- Albert PolinaAARPinsurance saved me mooola..like b i g bucks.thanks AARP!!!3 hours ago
- Hr Puffen Stuffhttp://americac2c.com/profiles/blogs/lying-style-no-substance?xg_source=msg_mes_network Barack Obama: Lying Style, No Substance5 hours ago
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Martini drinkers, are you ordering a proper martini?
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Great life lessons this granddaughter learned from her Pop Pop. Which is your favorite? http://aarp.us/Xt62XNAARP shared a link via AARP Social.
It's time to review your Medicare plan and options. Open enrollment is the one time each year when you can see what new benefits Medicare has to offer and make changes to your coverage. Medicare Open Enrollment takes place from October 15 – December 7, 2012. Learn about your options at our free webinar TODAY, October 18th at 7pm. http://aarp.us/R5X6GjAARP shared a link via AARP Social.
Members save 20% off on personal training and group fitness with American Council on Exercise. How do you keep fit during the hot summer months? http://aarp.us/T0V46EAARP shared a link via AARP Social.
No, you're not too old for long hair. Ladies with long hair, what are your maintenance tips?
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Has being cheap ever cost you money in the long run? Your 'buyer's remorse' story could earn you a prize in our Fall Savings Challenge. http://aarp.us/OI7OmD Reply in the comments below just for fun and to commiserate with others who have been there, then you can copy/paste to the Savings Challenge (you have to enter the contest via the post below to win).AARP shared a link via AARP Social.
Georgia caregivers. AARP Georgia is conducting a survey about the unmet needs of caregivers. Do us a favor and fill it out? http://aarp.us/R44ZMsAARP shared a link via AARP Social.
If you saw the debate last night, what did you think? What would you like to have heard more detail on? http://aarp.us/OHgvxm P.S. We value our members from both parties. Please keep the dialogue cordial and if applicable, be willing to disagree with others without being rude (that goes for all sides). Thanks.AARP shared a link via AARP Social.
Members download a coupon offer and save $1.25 on one bag of Olive Coast™ snacks. Do you snack during the day, night or both? http://aarp.us/Wwo1wLAARP shared a link via AARP Social.
"Emily Owens, M.D." premieres on the CW Network tonight starring Meryl Streep's daughter Mamie Gummer. Blogger Stacy Jenel Smith is a fan - but don't tell the advertisers the 50+ are watching!
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A new study from Ohio State University suggests apples can reduce cholesterol. A group of healthy older adults ages 40 to 60 who ate an apple a day for four weeks ended up lowering their levels of LDL — called the "bad" cholesterol because it gums up the arteries — by a whopping 40 percent. It's apple season right now too! http://aarp.us/WiafznAARP shared a link via AARP Social.
If you or someone you know needs extra income or is between jobs, now is the time to submit applications if you want to start working next month. http://aarp.us/V3P6Uy Have you done seasonal work during the hectic holiday period? If so, what was your favorite or least favorite job?AARP shared a link via AARP Social.
Did you know that millions of 50+ Americans struggle to meet life's everyday needs? AARP Foundation is here to help. You can, too. Do you help cook meals for friends, family or neighbors in need? http://aarp.us/PyBfZJAARP shared a link via AARP Social.
Be honest: Have you unfriended/or been unfriended on Facebook due to politics? http://aarp.us/T5D0yzAARP shared a link via AARP Social.
Caregivers: Here's your chance to ask the pros about caring for a loved one at home. http://aarp.us/QnvVoZ Be sure to share on your Facebook page with other caregivers.AARP shared a link via AARP Social.
Members can save 10% everyday at Claim Jumper Restaurants. How often do you eat out these days? http://aarp.us/WafZv6AARP shared a link via AARP Social.
A dog save dogs in a canoe ... then reunited with their owner? OK, you had us a dogs ... http://aarp.us/T2pDiE Aren't dogs amazing?AARP shared a link via AARP Social.
Statistics show primary family caregivers are female, but a slow growing trend have men assuming the caregiver in chief role. What do you think? Tell us in the comments section below. http://aarp.us/R5BxUMAARP shared a link via AARP Social.
Visit this page for questions about your AARP member benefits, your membership and more. And, be sure to bookmark it for later. What's the one thing you like most about being an AARP member? http://aarp.us/UYwZzhAARP shared a link via AARP Social.
Are your eyebrows making you look older? Try Lois's tips for cleaner, well-kempt brows. Guys, you too!
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We all want to save money -- and here are 10 spending habits you should break if you want to save more. http://aarp.us/TnNaow Do you do any of these? What do you think would be easiest to give up?AARP shared a link via AARP Social.
Members get 15% off eligible products/services. 5% off UPS shipping at The UPS Store. Do you tend to ship domestically or internationally? http://aarp.us/TIxrWvAARP shared a link via AARP Social.
If you have 20+ years of experience and you're looking for a job -- or thinking about a career change, or starting your own business -- Work Reimagined is right up your alley. http://aarp.us/RD1Kta Do you think it's helpful to have a reso...urce like this just for seasoned workers?See More
If so, feel free to share with other folks who are proud to have some work miles on their odometers. See comments for additional job-hunting links, too.AARP shared a link via AARP Social.
Heart disease is still the leading cause of death for women—but it's largely preventable. Learn more about preventing heart disease: http://aarp.us/RlxYIWAARP shared a link via AARP Social.
What's the number one reason why people you know cheat?
http://aarp.us/UPnkk4- Late night, post debate comment thread... our bloggers break it down. Weigh in below and tell us what you thought! http://blog.aarp.org/2012/10/11/the-vice-presidential-debate-the-candidates-on-medicare-and-social-security/
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Members can download a coupon offer and save $1.25 on one bag of Smartfood® Selects snacks. What's your favorite snack? http://aarp.us/OrRNRwAARP shared a link via AARP Social.
Did you know it's National Adopt-a-Dog Month? Read why you should consider adopting a shelter dog to not only save money, but save a life! Where did you find your furry friend? http://aarp.us/RdD6P1AARP shared a link via AARP Social.
You've paid in to Social Security and you've earned your benefits. Click 'Like' if you agree that Social Security is important to you -- and to future generations, too. http://aarp.us/STUtUs Try this Social Security interactive tool, and in the comments share one sentence about what you would do to shore up Social Security for the long haul. (Feel free to share the tool, too.)AARP shared a link via AARP Social.
Puzzled by the Health Care Law? Weed out the facts from the fiction by joining this free webinar on October 11 (TODAY) at 2pm ET. Gain a clearer understanding of the changes in the law and how each applies to you and your family. Register now at: http://aarp.us/QYMA20AARP shared a link via AARP Social.
Members save up to $10 off regular AARP® Roadside Assistance from Allstate membership fees. Do you know how to fix a flat tire? http://aarp.us/QSZAYvAARP shared a link via AARP Social.
Connie Britton is back on primetime TV! Anyone tuning in for "Nashville" tonight?
http://aarp.us/OoR7fJ- Hey AARP members -- if you love saving money, this contest on our Facebook page is just for you! http://aarp.us/RfGRnz FUN Q: Baseball fans of all ages...what teams would you pick for your dream World Series match-up? (regardless of divisions, records, etc.)
If baseball isn't your thing, what Broadway show would you want to see? AARP shared a link via AARP Social.
Submit advance questions via the link below for a live chat with AARP's president about the important issue of employment for experienced workers, and mark your calendars for Oct. 30 at 2 p.m. ET. http://aarp.us/QcyCtv What are the biggest hurdles you think workers with 20+ years of experience are facing?AARP shared a link via AARP Social.
Need a new AARP membership card? You can do that online. http://aarp.us/PUHOjG- In next week's segment of Your Life Calling, they'll profile 50-year-old model Dawn Nakamura-Kessler, who wears a pacemaker after several open-heart surgeries. Producer Kim Sedmak writes about how they found Dawn's remarkable story: http://blog.aarp.org/2012/10/09/modeling-after-50-pacemaker-and-all/
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After watching her husband, Phil Donahue, unexpectedly tackle a friend's crisis, Marlo Thomas what provoked to ask: Who is the friendlier gender? http://aarp.us/SPa5IR What say you, Facebook family? Who is friendlier: men? women? Comment below!AARP shared a link via AARP Social.
Members receive 20% off their total check 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. daily at Denny's. Do you prefer pancakes or waffles? http://aarp.us/OPe5OH- Thanks to Legacy Recordings, we were able to post this new track from Ann & Nancy Wilson - otherwise known as Heart. Check it out, & tell us what you think!
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"I can... take this hair off of your back and glue it right up on your head!!"
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Got an iPad? Take AARP with you wherever you go. Familiarize yourself with the AARP iPad app. Watch this fun video. http://aarp.us/RKhxs7AARP shared a link via AARP Social.
Merri Dee, Chicago broadcasting legend, on the rewards of volunteering - including a very personal legislative victory. Do you volunteer? http://aarp.us/Q4hkxwAARP shared a link via AARP Social.
You've paid into Social Security, and you've earned every dime of your benefit http://aarp.us/PKEWpx Want to learn more for a chance at $50,000? Check out our sweepstakes and tell us what you think. And feel free to share the link, too.AARP shared a link via AARP Social.
Members can save on eyewear with AARP® Vision Discounts provided by EyeMed. Do you prefer funky or neutral frames? http://aarp.us/STjkIsAARP shared a link via AARP Social.
If you or someone you know had a home involved in the foreclosure process in 2009 or 2010, it's worth checking to see about eligibility for compensation if mistakes were made by your lender or loan servicer. Find out more: http://aarp.us/SK8kN2 Have you seen many foreclosures in your area?AARP shared a link via AARP Social.
We all care about saving money these days, right? With extra fees lurking everywhere from bank to credit card statements to cable and cell phone bills, it pays to check carefully. http://aarp.us/Vw7Fp3 When was the last time you checked your monthly bills with a fine-tooth comb? Did you find any surprises?AARP shared a link via AARP Social.
Caregivers: Ever finding yourself tending to a loved one with medical treatments and wonder if you're doing it right? You're not alone. A new study shows that many caregivers, like yourselves, are not properly trained to give such treatments. More right here: http://aarp.us/R0oF46AARP shared a link via AARP Social.
Members get grocery coupons from Grocery Coupon Center powered by http://aarp.us/QQuGgi. Do you share your best recipes? http://aarp.us/QQuDkOAARP shared a link via AARP Social.
Happy Friday! Is it cold where you are? Here's a drink that'll warm the cockles of your heart...
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Need a little push to get outside and stay active every day? A dog might be just the thing. Dog owners, have your pets kept you active?
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Puzzled by the Health Care Law? Weed out the facts from the fiction by joining this free webinar on October 11 at 2pm ET. Gain a clearer understanding of the changes in the law and how each applies to you and your family. http://aarp.us/T52CFSAARP shared a link via AARP Social.
Members save 20% off purchases of $399 or more with Sleepy's. What's your advice for a sound sleep? http://aarp.us/OGaSkgAARP shared a link via AARP Social.
For your evening, here are five of the late, great Frank Wilson's contributions to music.
Any more we left off? What are you playing tonight?
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Like it or not, politics seems to be the hot topic today -- but many people can't wait for November 7 to get the election over with. How do you feel? http://aarp.us/PYOQpR P.S. Not talking candidates or parties in this thread, just how the topic of politics makes you feel overall. Thanks for keeping comments clean and civil.AARP shared a link via AARP Social.
Chris Economaki, who passed away last week at 91, went on to become motor sports' version of Howard Cosell and Red Smith rolled into one. Check out five little known facts about the voice of motor sports: http://aarp.us/PYrGzS