The post The Evolution of Online Casino Legality in the United States: A State-by-State Overview appeared first on The Libertarian Republic.
]]>The landscape of online gambling in the United States has undergone significant changes over the past few years. With advancements in technology and shifts in legal frameworks, online casinos have moved from a gray area to a more defined legal status, varying significantly across different states.
This blog post aims to explore the evolution of online casino legality in the U.S., offering insights into how different regions have adapted to the rise of digital gambling platforms. By navigating through the complexities of state laws and federal regulations, we can gain a clearer understanding of the current status of online casinos in America and speculate on future trends.
The Initial Stance on Online Gambling
Historically, the legality of online gambling in the United States was governed by the Federal Wire Act of 1961, which was interpreted to ban all forms of online gambling. However, in 2011, the Department of Justice (DOJ) clarified that the Wire Act only applied to sports betting, paving the way for states to legalize online casinos and poker if they chose to. This reinterpretation marked the beginning of a new era for online gambling in the U.S.
State-by-State Legalization Efforts
Following the DOJ’s clarification, individual states began to explore the legalization of online casinos. Nevada, Delaware, and New Jersey were among the first to legalize online gambling in 2013, setting the stage for others to follow. Each state has set up its regulatory framework, dictating how operators can offer online casino games to residents within their borders.
Unfolding the Digital Frontier: West Virginia’s Progressive Journey in Online Casino Legislation
West Virginia has emerged as a noteworthy player in the evolving narrative of online casino legalization in the United States. With the launch of FanDuel’s WV online casino, the state has positioned itself as a pioneer in embracing the digital transition of gambling. This move not only broadens the spectrum of entertainment options available to residents but also serves as the ultimate guide for other states contemplating similar legislative frameworks.
The introduction of platforms like FanDuel’s in West Virginia represents a significant milestone in the state’s gambling history, highlighting its commitment to providing secure, regulated online gambling experiences. As West Virginia continues to refine its approach and regulations concerning online casinos, it sets a benchmark for innovation and consumer protection in the digital age of gambling, underscoring its evolution as a leader in the industry.
The Rise of Mobile and Sports Betting
The legalization of sports betting in May 2018, following the Supreme Court’s overturning of the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA), further accelerated the acceptance and growth of online gambling. States like Pennsylvania, Michigan, and West Virginia have since joined the ranks of those offering legal online casinos, with many incorporating mobile and sports betting into their legal frameworks. This integration has significantly increased the accessibility of online gambling, contributing to its growing popularity across the country.
Current Trends and Future Outlook
As of now, over twenty states have legalized sports betting, with a subset of those also permitting online casinos and poker. The trend suggests a gradual shift towards more widespread acceptance of online gambling, driven by the potential for substantial tax revenue and the desire to protect consumers through regulation. Furthermore, the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the move to digital platforms, highlighting the importance of online casinos in a socially distanced society.
Legislation in states still on the fence about online gambling is being closely watched, as these areas represent significant opportunities for growth in the industry. Analysts predict that the next few years will see an increase in the number of states legalizing online casinos, as they look to capitalize on the economic benefits and address consumer demand for regulated, safe online gambling options.
Conclusion
The evolution of online casino legality in the United States is a testament to the dynamic nature of law, technology, and consumer behavior. As states navigate the challenges and opportunities presented by online gambling, the landscape continues to evolve, reflecting broader trends towards digitalization and regulatory adaptation.
Looking ahead, the trajectory of online casinos in the U.S. appears poised for further expansion, promising an exciting future for enthusiasts and operators alike. With ongoing legislative developments and technological advancements, the American online gambling scene is set to grow in both scope and sophistication, offering new opportunities for entertainment and economic benefit.
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]]>The post Securing Your Digital Footprint: How to Permanently Erase Data from a Hard Drive appeared first on The Libertarian Republic.
]]>Before diving into specific techniques, it’s important to understand How to permanently erase data from a hard drive. Most hard drives use magnetic storage, where data is represented by magnetized regions on the platter. Deleting a file simply removes the directory entry that points to the data’s location. The actual data remains on the drive until it’s overwritten with new information.
This is where data erasure comes in. By overwriting the existing data with random patterns or specific algorithms, it becomes extremely difficult, if not impossible, to recover the original information.
There are several methods for permanently erasing data from a hard drive, each with its own advantages and considerations.
This is the most common and user-friendly method. Data wiping software, also known as disk wipe software or hard drive eraser software, specifically overwrites data on your hard drive. These programs utilize various overwrite methods, some writing random data once, while others overwrite the data multiple times with different patterns.
Here’s what to consider when using data wiping software:
While formatting a drive erases data, it’s not a secure method. However, some operating systems offer a data wiping option during the formatting process. For instance, in Windows 10, you can choose to “Clean the drive” during a full format, which performs a single-pass overwrite with zeroes.
This method uses a powerful magnetic field to disrupt the magnetic domains on the hard drive, essentially scrambling the data. Degaussing is a highly effective method, but it requires specialized equipment. Degaussers can be expensive, making this option less practical for home users.
For maximum security, physically destroying the hard drive is an option. This involves shredding, crushing, or drilling holes into the drive platters. While undeniably effective, physical destruction is irreversible and should only be used after other methods are deemed insufficient.
The best method for permanently erasing data depends on your specific needs and the level of security required. Here’s a quick guide:
Permanently erasing data from a hard drive is essential for protecting your privacy and security. By understanding the different methods available and choosing the right one for your needs.
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]]>The post Exploring the Cutting-Edge of Online Slot Gaming: Unveiling the Latest Trends in Slot Games appeared first on The Libertarian Republic.
]]>**Embracing Technological Advancements**
Slot Online games stand at the forefront of technological innovation, leveraging cutting-edge graphics, animations, and sound effects to create captivating gaming experiences. From stunning visual effects to immersive audio design, these games transport players to fantastical worlds and adventures, immersing them in an unparalleled gaming experience right from the comfort of their homes.
**Diverse and Immersive Themes**
One of the hallmarks of online slot gaming is the vast array of themes that players can explore. From ancient mythology and legendary folklore to modern pop culture and blockbuster movies, online slot games offer a diverse range of themes to cater to every taste and preference. Whether players seek the thrill of high-stakes heists or the enchantment of mystical realms, there’s a slot game available to satisfy their desires for adventure and excitement.
**Innovative Gameplay Mechanics**
In addition to captivating themes, online slot games introduce innovative gameplay mechanics and features to keep players engaged and entertained. From dynamic bonus rounds and interactive mini-games to cascading reels and expanding wilds, these games offer a wealth of opportunities for players to unlock big wins and thrilling rewards. Moreover, many online slot games incorporate progressive jackpots, where the potential for massive payouts grows with each spin, adding an extra layer of excitement to the gaming experience.
**Mobile Optimization and Accessibility**
With the rise of mobile gaming, online slot games have become increasingly optimized for play on smartphones and tablets. These games are designed to be fully responsive and accessible across a wide range of devices and screen sizes, allowing players to enjoy seamless gaming experiences on the go. Whether players prefer to play on a dedicated mobile app or through a web browser, they can access their favorite slot games anytime, anywhere, with the same high-quality graphics and immersive features as their desktop counterparts.
**Conclusion: The Future of Online Slot Gaming**
In conclusion, online slot gaming continues to evolve and innovate, offering players an ever-expanding universe of themes, features, and experiences to explore. With advancements in technology, a diverse array of themes, and innovative gameplay mechanics, the future of online slot gaming is brighter and more exciting than ever before. Whether players are seeking thrilling adventures, big wins, or simply a fun way to pass the time, online slot gaming provides endless possibilities for entertainment and excitement in the digital age.
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]]>The post 3 Smart Saving Strategies for Building an Emergency Fund appeared first on The Libertarian Republic.
]]>One of the most effective methods to save is through the 50/30/20 budgeting rule, a popular financial planning guideline. It advocates dividing your after-tax income into three categories:
50% for needs, such as housing, food, and utilities
30% for wants, which includes leisure activities and non-essential purchases
20% for savings, comprising emergency funds, retirement accounts, and any outstanding debt payments
By allocating a specific portion of your income to savings, you can systematically grow your emergency fund without compromising your lifestyle. Over time, even small, consistent contributions add up and provide a cushion for unforeseen events.
2. Automate Your Savings
Automation is a game-changer when it comes to saving. By setting up automatic transfers from your checking account to a separate savings account, you remove the temptation to spend that money. Start by determining a realistic amount that you can afford to save each month. Even if it’s a modest sum, the act of automation ensures that you contribute regularly and steadily to your emergency fund.
Additionally, some banks offer services that round up your purchases to the nearest dollar and deposit the difference into your savings account. This ‘spare change’ method is an effortless way to build your emergency savings without even noticing a change in your spending habits.
3. High-Yield Savings Accounts
The traditional savings account at your local bank may offer convenience, but it’s typically low interest, which means your money won’t grow much over time. High-yield savings accounts, on the other hand, offer significantly higher interest rates, compounding your savings more rapidly.
While they often require a higher initial deposit and may have certain limitations, such as fewer branch locations or less flexibility with withdrawals, the benefit of higher interest rates can’t be overstated. Over the years, this difference in interest can amount to hundreds or even thousands of dollars, ensuring that your emergency fund is not only robust but also maximally advantageous.
By implementing these strategies, you can build a strong financial safety net that provides peace of mind and a sense of security should the unexpected happen. Remember, the key to a successful emergency fund is consistency and smart saving tactics. Start small, but start today, and watch your emergency savings grow over time.
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]]>The post New Zealand Players’ Casino Preferences appeared first on The Libertarian Republic.
]]>They go for different sorts of games and platforms. In other words, they have certain preferences when looking for an online casino. They will go for specific websites, and ignore others.
The right offers, games, and other features draw in these players. When an operator ticks all their boxes, then they register and stick with the platform for a long time. Below are some of their preferences.
Reputation Trumps All
Some casinos have been around for a while. Others are new to the scene. Either way, both make reputable casinos by taking proper care of players.
For example, all players at Christchurch online casino New Zealand know the platform will meet their needs. They can turn to the site whenever they’re facing technical issues. Moreover, the operator keeps their data secure each time they log into their accounts.
Aside from those features, players can dip their toes into the game section, or go all in. They can enhance their gaming sessions with a nice offer or two. In the words of the title, reputation trumps all for NZ players.
The Right Game and Bonus Selection
When going for a casino platform, New Zealand casino enthusiasts look for a good game selection. They love their online pokies but might turn to slots or even the live casino section. The platforms that offer all three will get their attention.
The next thing they look for is the array of bonuses. These offers will have free spins, credits, and additional interesting features. More importantly, they’ll take the casino experience up a notch.
Client Care Goes a Long Way
Aside from offers and games, operators need to take care of players. They have several benefits of proper customer service. NZ players appreciate effective client care.
Live chats, toll-free phone lines, and email addresses are signs of good customer care. An efficient response works miracles. And so does a 24/7 security team.
When players see SSL encryption, two-factor authentication, firewall, and other tool certification on a site, they know they’ll be safe. In other words, New Zealand players can have worry-less gaming sessions with proper customer care and security.
Preferred Deposit and Withdrawal Methods
The final box to tick is a wide-ranged banking methods selection. Players already have preferred payment methods and if they’re available on a site, then they’ll stick to the platform. They won’t need to change their funding options.
To accommodate various NZ players, operators offer many deposit and withdrawal methods. They have mobile payment apps, credit cards, bank transfers, and more.
To Sum Up
New Zealand players prefer reputable casinos because they already have what they’re looking for. Enticing offers and titles will get their attention, but so will seeing their preferred payment methods in the payments section. The platform needs to be secure and offer 24/7 effective customer service for NZ casino fans to register there.
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]]>The post The Pros of Hosting on Airbnb in Houston, TX appeared first on The Libertarian Republic.
]]>In the vibrant heart of Texas, the city of Houston stands out as a bustling metropolis ripe with opportunities for those looking to venture into the Airbnb business. With its diverse culture, strong economy, and the plethora of attractions, Houston is a magnet for travelers and entrepreneurs alike. If you’re considering hosting on Airbnb in Houston or already own a property you think could fetch you a tidy income, navigating the market can seem daunting. For a comprehensive guide and expert management services, consider visiting MasterHost
(https://masterhost.ca/airbnb-management-houston ), your go-to source for maximizing your Airbnb business potential in Houston.
Houston’s appeal as a prime location for Airbnb hosting is multi-faceted, offering numerous benefits to those ready to dive into the vacation rental market.
In summary, the Airbnb market in Houston offers a lucrative opportunity for hosts due to its high demand, diverse locations, economic growth, cultural attractions, and supportive local regulations. These factors combine to make Houston an ideal place for both new and experienced hosts to thrive. By leveraging these benefits, hosts can capitalize on the city’s appeal to a wide range of visitors, ensuring a profitable and sustainable business in the vibrant heart of Texas.
While the opportunities are plentiful, potential hosts should also be aware of the challenges that come with running an Airbnb business in Houston.
Despite the attractive prospects, hosting an Airbnb in Houston comes with its set of challenges, including intense competition, the demands of property management, and market fluctuations. These factors require hosts to be diligent, creative, and adaptable in their approach to ensure success in the competitive Houston market. Understanding and navigating these disadvantages are crucial for any host looking to make the most of their investment in the bustling city.
Houston offers a promising landscape for those looking to invest in the Airbnb market. The city’s economic vitality, combined with its cultural richness and diverse attractions, creates a fertile ground for vacation rental businesses. However, success in this competitive market requires strategic planning, quality management, and a willingness to invest in creating unique guest experiences. For those seeking to maximize their investment and navigate the complexities of Airbnb hosting in Houston, partnering with a seasoned management service like MasterHost can provide the edge needed to thrive in this vibrant market. Whether you’re a seasoned property owner or a newcomer to the vacation rental scene, Houston’s Airbnb market presents a worthwhile opportunity to generate income and be part of a dynamic community of hosts.
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]]>The post Attracting Top Full Stack .Net React Developers appeared first on The Libertarian Republic.
]]>Finding the right talent requires more than a cursory glance at resumes. It demands a deep dive into the pool of potential candidates, understanding what drives them, and recognizing the value they bring to the table. Here’s a brief rundown to guide your search:
By integrating these strategies, you stand a better chance of not just attracting, but also securing the full stack .Net React developer who can truly make a difference in your projects.
The first interaction a potential candidate has with your company is through the job listing. This is where clarity meets desire. A well-crafted job description not only lists the responsibilities and requirements of a full stack .Net React developer but also highlights what sets your project apart. This could be cutting-edge technologies, the opportunity to work on impactful projects, or a culture that promotes growth and learning.
Social media isn’t just for sharing memes or catching up with friends. It’s a powerful tool for networking and attracting talent. Platforms like LinkedIn, GitHub, and even Twitter can be goldmines for finding skilled developers. Engaging with potential candidates through these platforms can give you an edge in the recruitment process.
In the quest for a top-tier full stack .Net React developer, compensation is more than just a number – it’s a statement of value. Offering competitive salaries, along with benefits such as flexible working hours, remote work options, and opportunities for professional development, can make your offer stand out.
Securing a talented developer is only the beginning. The real challenge lies in retaining them and fostering an environment where they can thrive.
A culture that encourages collaboration, innovation, and continuous learning is vital. It not only helps in retaining talent but also in attracting new ones. Developers are more likely to stay where they feel their contributions are valued and where they can grow professionally.
The tech world is ever-evolving, and so should the skills of a full stack .Net React developer. Investing in their professional development, whether through workshops, courses, or conferences, demonstrates a commitment to their growth and the success of your projects.
A supportive work environment, where feedback is encouraged and challenges are met with solutions, not criticism, can significantly impact a developer’s decision to stay. It’s about creating a space where they feel supported, valued, and part of a team.
Attracting and retaining a skilled full stack .Net React developer is not just about filling a position. It’s about understanding the value these professionals bring to your projects and creating an environment that nurtures their talents. By focusing on clear communication, competitive compensation, and a culture of growth, you can ensure that your projects are not just completed, but are exemplary in their execution. Remember, the journey to excellence begins with the people you choose to bring on board.
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]]>The post FD Interest Rate Trends: What to Expect in the Coming Years appeared first on The Libertarian Republic.
]]>In this article, we will understand the FD interest rate trends and why fixed deposits continue to be a preferred investment avenue promising secured earnings.
Internet banking has significantly enhanced the accessibility and ease of investing in fixed deposits for many account holders. Most leading banks today allow the completion of the full cycle of opening, managing, and renewing FD interest rates through digital channels, minimizing paperwork and trips to branches.
Customers can compare interest rates of different tenure options at a glance and use online FD calculators to estimate overall earnings. Tech capabilities also enable tracking maturity dates and interest payouts in real-time.
Banks are entering into tailored-made FDs aligned to the specific requirements of investors based on their risk appetite and goals. For conservative folks focused exclusively on capital preservation rather than maximizing yields, FDs with guaranteed returns might be suggested.
Those open to some risk can consider market-linked FDs, allowing exposure to indices for some upside. By profiling customers and understanding their needs, banks can push suitable fixed deposit product variants like recommending mutual funds.
With sustainable investing gaining prominence worldwide, Indian banks also launch environmentally and socially conscious fixed deposits supporting initiatives like renewable energy water conservation based on ESG factors. By choosing such thematic FDs, investors can align investments to personal values like climate action and community development apart from stated returns. However, this allows banks to differentiate offerings while customers see their funds create real impact.
Future fixed deposits may be bundled with extra services like digital payment tools, insurance and investment advisory to improve the scope of offerings. FDs are packaged with accident coverage plans or complimentary access to wealth management platforms from the same bank. Such cross-selling strategies have already gained footing in credit cards and loan segments, with bundling poised to saturate the FD space soon.
Expect interest rates and loyalty bonuses on fixed deposits as banking turns hypercompetitive. Incumbents and Fintechs, eager to acquire term deposit customers, will likely roll out cashback offers, reward points, or exclusive privileges to pull investors. Such member-only benefits clubbed with promotional teasers, especially for digital channels, might become recurring practices to stand out.
Technologies around automated alerts, predictive analytics and robo-advisory will likely be incorporated to improve the FD management experience. Instead of manual tracking, smart systems can update investors on interest payouts or returns criteria and suggest optimal re-investment opportunities. Doing this would allow fixed deposit investors to realise better value while saving time and effort.
Traditionally, premature withdrawals from fixed deposits entailed steep penalty charges. However, future FD products might embed flexible liquidity options, allowing customers easy access to funds in case of contingencies without entirely breaking the deposit tenure. While partial withdrawals online can address unexpected needs, the core amount stays invested at agreed returns.
As Indian banking becomes more integrated globally, fixed deposits may transcend geographical barriers, too. Prospective options like opening foreign currency deposits with international banks or offshore branches of Indian banks can materialize. Such cross-border fixed deposits can tap into attractive rates abroad apart from diversification benefits to return-focused investors.
Fixed deposits are a popular choice for risk-averse depositors due to their guaranteed returns and capital protection. They are fully insured, and banks offering them are regulated by the RBI. DICGC insures deposits up to Rs 5 lakh, providing security to retail investors in India.
Fixed deposits shield against inflation and provide consistent yields. Committing resources for 1 to 5 years assures investors of annual accruals sheltered from market instability. They offer inflation-adjusted risk-free earnings and are popular in family portfolios.
Fixed Deposits (FDs) offer investors a flexible investment option with varying tenures from 7 days to 5 years or longer. FDs are suitable for conservative investors who prefer low-risk investments. Features like auto-renewal allow investors to reinvest in matured deposits without manual effort.
Fixed deposits are ideal for those seeking regular income. The quarterly interest payout option allows investors to receive interest accruals every three months, providing a routine inflow to take care of recurring expenses without breaking the fixed deposit.
FDs offer predictable returns and tax benefits to conservative investors. By submitting PAN card details, investors avoid TDS on yields below Rs 40,000. Also, the principal invested in 5-year tax-saving FDs qualifies for deduction under Section 80C, making them a popular choice for those seeking tax relief and secure returns.
Bank fixed deposits in India have been popular due to their principal protection, flexible returns, and early tax planning benefits. With the increasing digitisation trends, FDs are expected to evolve into dynamic and integrated digital assets aligned with 21st-century expectations around customisation, sustainability, and technological convenience.
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]]>The post USPTO denies OpenAI’s tries to trademark ‘ChatGPT’ and ‘GPT’ appeared first on The Libertarian Republic.
]]>ChatGPT is unquestionably the most recognizable product in the artificial intelligence field, having become the most famous conversational model in the industry and the one that most clearly elevated big language models from curiosity to a worldwide trend.
Nevertheless, in an official decision announced last week, which largely went unnoticed, the USPTO refused OpenAI’s petition to register a trademark for “GPT” since the acronym was “merely descriptive” and simply described a feature or attribute of the organization’s product. “GPT” means “generative pre-trained transformer,” a collection of neural network models capable of producing human-like text and visuals.
Since the emergence of generative AI, several other AI providers have appended GPT to their brand names. For instance, there is an AI detection startup called GPTZero already existing. Other businesses frequently refer to their basic AI models as GPTs and they truly are.
USPTO refused to grant OpenAI the right to the “ChatGPT” and “GPT” trademarks. The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) made headlines when they declined the trademark application from OpenAI. This event has sparked a heated debate in the tech community, with some backing the USPTO decision, and others criticizing it as a hindrance to innovation.
OpenAI, a well-known AI research lab, has been responsible for the creation of several groundbreaking language models, one of which is GPT-3, which has garnered a lot of attention since it can generate human-like text. OpenAI sought to trademark the names “ChatGPT” and “GPT” to protect their intellectual property, which they would use in their products and services. Nevertheless, the USPTO rejected their applications since the terms were excessively broad and did not have the needed elements to be protected by trademark.
Open AI first applied for the trademark USA registration with “GPT” in March 2021. However, it was denied in May 2022 because of a procedural mistake. The corporation submitted the request one more time with the requisite fees, but it was similarly rejected in September 2022.
The USPTO’s decision was met with both support and criticism from the tech community. Some experts supported this decision believing that granting trademarks for generic terms like “GPT” will limit competition and innovation in the AI industry. Through refusal to grant OpenAI’s trademark apps the USPTO is sending a strong signal that the generic terms cannot be profited by any particular firm, and this is to the advantage of customers, as it will promote a more competitive market.
At the same time, those who are against this decision pass judgment that it may stagnate technological developments. By refusing OpenAI’s trademark applications, the USPTO takes the step of preventing the company from trademarking its products and distinguishing its brand from its competitors. This could hinder the commercialization of the technology by OpenAI and could serve as a disincentive to other companies to invest in research and development of similar technology.
Moreover, some economists point out that the USPTO’s recent move contradicts the way it has been dealing with the matter in the past. In the past, USPTO has issued trademarks to similar generic terms in the tech sector such as ‘App Store’ and ‘Podcast.’ By denying OpenAI its trademark applications, USPTO is setting a precedent, which might have far-reaching consequences for other businesses seeking to protect their intellectual property.
In the wake of the USPTO’s decision, OpenAI has stated that they will concentrate on other methods to safeguard their intellectual property, including filing for copyright protection or pursuing trade secret protection. On the other hand, the novel approaches certainly provide some level of protection, but not the same level of legal certainty and enforcement abilities as a trademark.
While OpenAI’s failure to trademark GPT may limit its control over GPT-related terms, the business still has a strong presence in this field. Despite its limited legal safeguards, OpenAI nevertheless has the benefit of being the first to develop the GPT brand. This may encourage the corporation to highlight the GPT branding even more, despite the lack of trademark protection, to strengthen its position as a pioneer in this industry.
Generally speaking, the USPTO’s denial of the ChatGPT and GPT trademark applications brings up interesting issues concerning the participation of intellectual property protection in the technocrat world. Trademarks are to be focused on promoting innovation and fair competition; the balance between legitimate interests and monopolistic practices is hard but necessary to be struck. The decision of the USPTO in this case emphasizes the difficulties of applying the traditional trademark laws to emerging technologies like artificial intelligence and, at the same time, brings up the issue of intellectual property protection in the digital age that needs a more sophisticated approach.
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]]>The post Half the National Debt is from Wars, Misinformation and Lies appeared first on The Libertarian Republic.
]]>In addition to funding wars, Congress appropriates trillions of questionable dollars to anyone in the U.S. to address COVID-19 and green technology without any evidence of effectiveness or need.
At least $18 trillion of our $34 trillion national debt can be attributed to some combination of undeclared wars, misinformation, and lies. Every taxpayer is left with the $260,000 tab that accompanies federally created inflation, decaying schools, rising interest rates, declining wages, sagging productivity, labor strikes, supply chain problems, increasing taxes, open borders, and terrorists in the homeland. These problems are not music to the ears of Americans who “get another day older and deeper in debt.”
The unfortunate aspect of this situation is that as much as one-half of the national debt might have been avoided by honesty from our presidents and a Congress willing to debate the critical issues of the day.
$18 trillion of policy mistakes that could have been avoided by a serious debate in Congress and good quality information.
Vietnam (1965-1973). The U.S. was not attacked in the Gulf of Tonkin as it claimed, yet that lie was our excuse for waging a war against North Vietnam that killed 58,220 American soldiers, wounded 153,303, and another 1,643 are still missing. The war cost U.S. citizens $168 billion in the 1960s-1970s, which would be over $1 trillion today. The costs of that war continue today, with around $22 billion in compensation for injured veterans and lifetime benefits for their families. U.S. involvement in the war ended in 1973, but the U.S. withdrawal was a roadmap to its disgraceful surrender in Afghanistan.
Afghanistan and Global War on Terror (2001 to 2022). After terrorists crashed airplanes into the Twin Towers in NYC and the Pentagon on September 11, 2001, the U.S. invaded Afghanistan, the home of the terrorists. The global war on terror began and lasted for two decades. The U.S. stayed at war in the Middle East 18 years after President Bush declared “Mission Accomplished.” Its cost is estimated at $8 trillion and over 900,000 deaths. Even after the war ended, the U.S. estimates $2.2 trillion for the future care of our veterans. After two decades of fighting in Afghanistan, the U.S. disgracefully abandoned the war and the hundreds of thousands of Afghans who worked to help the Americans. The U.S. also left $7.12 billion worth of equipment for the terrorists to use against us.
The Iraq War (2003 – 2011). The Iraq War was the result of the U.S. Intelligence Agencies falsely telling the American people Saddam Hussein had Weapons of Mass Destructions (“WMD”). Hussein did not have any WMD. Rather, the war was President Bush’s obsession to remove Hussein from power to correct what he believed was a mistake by Father Bush not to invade Iraq and eliminate Saddam Hussein. The cost of the Iraq war was $1.8 trillion and cost 550,000 lives.
Ukraine War (2022-present). So far, the U.S. has spent $115 billion on the Ukraine war with Russia. Presently, the U.S. Senate wants to give Ukraine another $60 billion. While the history of the Ukraine War is not written, there is considerable controversy over the U.S. role in the 2014 coup that overthrew the pro-Russian president Viktor Yanukovych. The U.S. and the EU certainly wanted a friendly Ukrainian government. The toppling of the Russian-friendly ruler and the installation of a pro-western ruler of Ukraine led to Russia invading and taking Crimea from Ukraine in 2014.
Complicating Ukrainian politics, in 2016, after a new Ukraine president was installed, then Vice President Biden threatened to deny Ukraine $1 billion if the president of Ukraine did not fire Special Prosecutor Shokin, who was investigating Burisma, a corrupt company that paid large sums of money to Hunter Biden to lobby the Obama administration to force Ukraine to end the investigations of its corruption. Now President Biden has forcefully stated he will support Ukraine for “as long as it takes.” The final cost of war is unknown, and the cost of rebuilding Ukraine will be in the hundreds of billions.
Additional Wars (1950-2022). In addition to four major undeclared wars, the U.S. has been involved in the Korean War, Laotian Civil War, Permesta Rebellion, Lebanon crisis, Bay of Pigs, Dominican Civil War, Korean DMZ conflict, Cambodian Civil War, Lebanese Armed Forces, Grenada, Libya, Tanker war, invasion of Panama, Somali, Bosnian and Croatian wars, Kosovo war, intervention in Yemen, intervention in North-West Pakistan, second intervention in Somali Civil War, Ocean Shield, Operation Observant Compass (Uganda), intervention in Niger, Syrian Civil War, second intervention in Libya, Operation Prosperity Guardian (Red Sea conflict).
Cost of Covid (2019-2022). The federal government spent over $4.6 trillion during the Covid pandemic. Most of the money went to individuals and corporations to keep them afloat during the government-mandated shutdown and to Big Pharma for the vaccines that were never properly tested. There is considerable conflict over the usefulness of the Covid vaccines. Moreover, there are many who believe the lockdowns, school closures, fraud, lost productivity, and the rise in mental health cases will cost the U.S. many trillions in the future. The OECD estimates the cost of the lost learning in the U.S. will be $14.1 trillion. Congress never received any information from either Trump or Biden on the origins of COVID-19.
The Inflation Reduction Act (2023). The IRA is not about reducing inflation in any manner. It was about funding green technology. The IRA tax credits for anything “green” incentivized more pigs to show up at the trough than CBO estimated. Within months after the program started, Goldman Sachs raised its estimated cost of the credits to $1.2 trillion for the same time period. The original forecast missed the cost of the credits for electric vehicles by $379 billion; energy manufacturing, $156 billion; renewable electricity production, $82 billion; energy efficiency, $42 billion; hydrogen, $36 billion; biofuels, $34 billion; and carbon capture, $31 billion.
Governments Make Mistakes; unfortunately, the U.S. federal government does not learn from them.
The total cost of these few policy mistakes is well over $18 trillion. As to the wars, Congress never declared any of them. As to Vietnam and Iraq, the American people were simply lied to. As to the COVID cover-up, the most disconcerting fact is that the federal government continues to refuse to tell citizens the origins of COVID-19 or provide scientific studies to support the mandated vaccinations, lockdowns, closures, or other police state tactics.
The U.S. federal government appears to be incapable of learning from its mistakes. The U.S. involves itself in war after war, yet Congress rarely debates the need for the war before the president sends money, equipment, troops, or some combination of war assistance to the fight. The U.S. federal government passes society-changing policies like COVID and IRA and appropriates trillions to implement them with few, if any, members of Congress or the president even reading the summaries of the laws.
The American people deserve more for the $6 trillion they send to Washington each year and the $34 trillion the federal government borrowed in our name. Asking Congress to perform its constitutional responsibility to declare war before the president sends troops and/or equipment to fight the war is not unreasonable. Demanding the Executive to provide the science underlying major public health emergency orders is not unreasonable. Demanding our leaders tell us the truth, rather than lies, about what the government is doing is not unreasonable. Unfortunately, Congress and the president seem very content with living in a state of undeclared wars, perpetual misinformation, and lies.
William L. Kovacs has served as senior vice president for the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, chief counsel to a congressional committee, and a partner in law D.C. law firms. His book Reform the Kakistocracy is the winner of the 2021 Independent Press Award for Political/Social Change. He can be contacted at wlk@ReformTheKakistocracy.com
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