Ensuring that President Obama governs in a way that reflects who elected him, carries proudly forward the mandate we have given him and refrain from compromising too much

Ensuring that President Obama governs in a way that reflects who elected him, carries proudly forward the mandate we have given him and refrain from compromising too much

Living in the state of Florida and reading the constitutional amendments on our ballots this year was a far different experience than voting in other states previously. One of our constitutional amendments was intended to provide religious organizations with tax payer dollars. Luckily for us, the bill failed. Not only were we on the verge of paying religious organizations our hard-earned dollars, but said organizations are breaking rules and continuing to maintain tax-exempt status. Part of the responsibility of the IRS is to monitor and govern non-profit organizations to maintain that they are adhering to federal laws that allow their tax-exempt status to apply. Some of the criterion for maintaining tax-exempt status are: ■ the organization must be organized and operated exclusively for religious, educational, scientific, or other charitable purposes, ■ net earnings may not inure to the benefit of any private individual or shareholder, ■ no substantial part of its activity may be attempting to influence legislation, ■ the organization may not intervene in political campaigns, and ■ the organization’s purposes and activities may not be illegal or violate fundamental public policy http://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p1828.pdf On October 7, 2012, churches took to the pulpits and streets to persuade people to vote in opposition to such topics as abortion. As you can see from the list provided above, churches may NOT participate in influencing legislation to maintain tax-exempt status. There have also been reports made that church leaders had been coaxing their parishioners to vote for specific candidates. Per the IRS requirements, this is also a violation. As several news agencies are reporting, "However, Russell Renwicks, a manager in the IRS Mid-Atlantic region, recently said the agency had suspended audits of churches suspected of breaching federal restrictions on political activity. A 2009 federal court ruling required the IRS to clarify which high-ranking official could authorize audits over the tax code's political rules. The IRS has yet to do so.'' http://abcnews.go.com/US/wireStory/irs-enforcing-rules-churches-politics-17633236#.UJwr15jA8qw http://seattletimes.com/html/nationworld/2019596822_apusirschurchpolitics.html http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/11/04/irs-church-state_n_2069009.html It is time that, after 3 years of complaints made to the IRS, they do the job they have been hired to do and follow the law. We pay our fair share of taxes. If religious organizations choose to violate the requirements of maintaining tax-exempt status, then they should be forced to pay their fair share of taxes, as well. It is time to wake the IRS up and tell them, ''Do your job or be replaced with employees who will!'' Stand up for our rights as a community and vocalize to the IRS that those who are willing to break rules, must be subjected to forfeiture of special privileges.

With the advancement in technology and education, as well as enlarging our citizens the time has come to be rid of the Electoral College. I studied various forms of government and politics while in school and I have come to the conclusion the Electoral College is antiquated and may be a driving force in apathy among young voters. By moving to a percentage system (or other worthy system) we could truly invigorate the youth to be an active participant in our democracy. Living in Texas many feel their vote does not add their voice in major elections and thus decide to not vote, therefore hurting local elections where they could be the real difference in who wins and who loses.

Making sure any Representative or Senator who serves on a science related committee in either body has appropriate or related scientific background to do so..

The lack of work between the two parties has effected every American even if you didn't think it did. This dysfunction has cost Americans in waste of millions of tax payer money.

Elizabeth Warren will be entering Congress as more than just a Junior Senator. She brings with her years of experience and expertise on matters related to the banking industry.As an American bankruptcy law expert, Harvard Law School professor, and the U.S. Senator-elect for the state of Massachusetts Ms. Warren was appointed by United States Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid to chair the five-member Congressional Oversight Panel created to oversee the implementation of the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act. Her vast knowledge and understanding of economic issues and there impact on the middle class make her an ideal candidate for such an appointment.

During his first presidency President Obama was stonewalled by the House GOP majority. Getting his agenda fulfilled was stopped by record filibusters, spreading of misinformation, and loyalty to someone who was not elected by the American people (Grover Norquist). Congress has the lowest approval rate ever. America's credit rating dropped because of the actions of the GOP. We are asking you to work with the President. If you actually have to cut spending cut your salaries and only get paid for the days Congress is in session and only pay those who are in attendance.

Republicans use holds and filibusters to stop legislation and nominations. Practically only at the start of a new session can a simple majority of senators vote to change senate rules. That time is coming in January -- we need to let senators know we want these delaying techniques changed or eliminated.

Senator Mitch McConnell is not willing to do his job and should resign from the US Senate.

Congress impose scientific literacy requirements for members serving on the Congressional Committee on Science, Space, and Technology.

This petition is to require that half of all donations to political parties or PACs go toward the Social Security and Medicare pools.