The George Kaiser Political Agenda In Oklahoma. The New York Times bloggers, Nicolas Kristof, & intern, Cassidy McDonald; sat down with Tulsa billionaire, George Kaiser, for an in-depth discussion of what the Kaiser foundation is seeking to change; and what Kaiser wants the change to look like. This compelling interview will perhaps help us understand some of the Kaiser influences in the political process. Tulsa: George Kaiser's 'Beta City' McDonald starts out by telling why Kaiser's German family relocated to Tulsa, and his Jewish roots. Then he tells us some of the basic principles guiding his social agenda. Kaiser is spending massive amounts of capitol to test his theories in Tulsa. "If Kaiser could change one structural aspect of the country, he said he’d eliminate the attitude that centralized control is inherently evil. " |
Of all the politicos who are pressing to raise taxes on oil producers, Kaiser is seen as a big supporter of the revenue raising initiatives. "He’s fought to increase taxes on Oklahoma oil and gas producers." Kaiser is also frustrated with many federal policies and wants to see fundamental change. The issue of Social Security is not so popular with Kaiser. If he had his way we'd be finding a new approach. "Social Security and Medicare were created at a time when the elderly were the poorest in society, he said, but the programs have become antiquated, as they now act as transfers from the relatively poorer young people to the relatively more wealthy older generation."Read the full blog at the New York Times. |