# Coming Soon: The Cashless Society > A wave of federal mandates and digital currency shifts signals a new era of government oversight as the administration navigates personnel scandals and pandemic preparations. - **Show:** [The No Agenda Show](https://search.noagendashow.net/index.md) - **Episode:** 128 - **Published:** 2009-09-06 - **Length:** 1h 42m - **Topics:** [Van Jones](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/van-jones.md), H1N1 Mandates, [Cashless Society](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cashless-society.md), Energy Star, Life Settlements, [Pastor Manning](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pastor-manning.md) - **Web page:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/128-coming-soon-the-cashless-society ## About this episode Van Jones resigned his position as the Obama administration Green Jobs Czar following intense scrutiny over his past activism and a controversial 9/11 petition. The resignation follows leaked audio of Jones using profanity to describe Republicans and comparing George W. Bush to a drug addict. Former San Francisco Mayor Willie Brown offered a sharp critique of the exit, signaling a rift between the administration and California's established political machine. Global tensions and domestic mandates rise as the Department of Defense makes H1N1 swine flu vaccinations mandatory for all active-duty military personnel starting in October 2009. The World Health Organization and GlaxoSmithKline are utilizing mock-up vaccines to bypass traditional regulatory timelines, while Washington D.C. prepares mass vaccination hubs in recreation centers. Simultaneously, the U.S. Treasury is transitioning Social Security recipients to prepaid debit cards issued by Comerica Bank, and Walmart is moving to paperless payroll systems managed by First Data Corporation. These shifts toward a cashless infrastructure coincide with a new federal Cash for Appliances rebate program and the European phase-out of 100-watt incandescent light bulbs. Pastor Manning of Harlem provides a provocative take on the Obama Girl YouTube phenomenon, while a listener from Manama, Bahrain, submits a Muppets-inspired musical tribute. The show acknowledges a new Patron Knight from Clovis, New Mexico, for his significant contribution to the value-for-value model, maintaining a broadcast free from the commercial interruptions seen on networks like MSNBC. ## Chapters Each chapter's transcript is at its own link. The whole transcript is at https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/128-coming-soon-the-cashless-society/transcript.md. ### 1. Pastor Manning, Obama as a Long-Legged Mac Daddy (0:01–2:35) Pastor Manning, a Harlem-based minister, gained attention for his provocative descriptions of President Barack Obama. The discussion focuses on Manning's use of the term "long-legged mac daddy" to describe the President's political rise. The hosts examine how Manning attributes Obama's mainstream success to the "Obama Girl" YouTube phenomenon. Keywords: [pastor manning](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pastor-manning.md), [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md), [mac daddy](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mac-daddy.md), pimping, [youtube](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/youtube.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/128-coming-soon-the-cashless-society/chapter/1.md) ### 2. Definition of Mac Daddy, Obama Girl YouTube Strategy (2:36–5:51) The term "mac daddy" is defined in the context of high-level pimping and power dynamics. The conversation explores Pastor Manning's theory that the Obama campaign utilized "pimping" tactics involving attractive women to gain political traction. Manning's criticisms also extend to other political figures, including Nancy Pelosi and Harry Reid. Keywords: [mac daddy](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mac-daddy.md), [pimp](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pimp.md), obama girl, [youtube](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/youtube.md), [nancy pelosi](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nancy-pelosi.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/128-coming-soon-the-cashless-society/chapter/2.md) ### 3. Van Jones Resignation, Green Jobs Czar Controversy (5:54–8:05) Van Jones resigned from his position as the Obama administration's Green Jobs Czar following several controversies. The resignation was triggered by reports of his past arrest during the Los Angeles riots and his signature on a petition questioning the government's role in the September 11 attacks. Administration spokespeople claimed Jones had not carefully read the petition before signing. Keywords: [van jones](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/van-jones.md), green jobs czar, [resignation](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/resignation.md), 9/11 petition, [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/128-coming-soon-the-cashless-society/chapter/3.md) ### 4. Willie Brown, Political Savvy in San Francisco (8:08–9:45) Former San Francisco Mayor Willie Brown, known as "Slick Willie," offered a subtle critique of Van Jones, labeling him a troublemaker. The discussion highlights Brown's political longevity and his reputation for being a savvy, unforgiving character in California politics. Brown's snub by the Obama administration is noted as a factor in his willingness to criticize the former czar. Keywords: [willie brown](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/willie-brown.md), [san francisco](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/san-francisco.md), [van jones](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/van-jones.md), california assembly, slick willie [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/128-coming-soon-the-cashless-society/chapter/4.md) ### 5. Van Jones Soundbites, Republican Criticism and Crackhead Comments (9:46–13:04) Leaked audio clips of Van Jones show him using profanity to describe Republicans and comparing President George W. Bush's energy policies to the behavior of a "crackhead." These clips, recorded during various question-and-answer sessions, contributed to the perception that his demeanor was not "czar-like." The segment contrasts Jones's performative style with the serious legislative approach of Senator Al Franken. Keywords: [van jones](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/van-jones.md), [republicans](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/republicans.md), [george w. bush](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/george-w-bush.md), crackhead, [al franken](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/al-franken.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/128-coming-soon-the-cashless-society/chapter/5.md) ### 6. British MPs, Summer Vacation Consultancy Earnings (13:06–17:35) Members of the British Parliament faced scrutiny for earning high hourly fees from private corporations and banks during their 82-day summer recess. Reports from the Daily Mail revealed that MPs like Greg Barker and Patricia Hewitt took consultancy roles with firms such as Rothschild Bank and British Telecom. Critics argue these payments constitute a form of legal bribery that undermines public trust in Westminster. Keywords: members of parliament, [daily mail](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/daily-mail.md), consultancy fees, [corruption](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/corruption.md), [united kingdom](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/united-kingdom.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/128-coming-soon-the-cashless-society/chapter/6.md) ### 7. Sweden, State-Funded Pornography and Immigration Trends (17:36–20:13) The Swedish Film Institute sparked controversy by using $69,000 in taxpayer funds to sponsor a female-centric pornographic film. This event is discussed alongside broader cultural shifts in Sweden and the Netherlands related to immigration and political correctness. The conversation touches on the demographic changes in cities like Malmo and the differing immigration policies of Denmark. Keywords: [sweden](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sweden.md), swedish film institute, [pornography](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pornography.md), [immigration](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/immigration.md), [malmo](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/malmo.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/128-coming-soon-the-cashless-society/chapter/7.md) ### 8. Manama Bahrain, Muppets Theme Fan Song (20:14–22:57) A listener from Manama, Bahrain, inspired a musical tribute based on the Muppets' "Mahna Mahna" song. The segment features a fan-produced audio clip that incorporates the city's name into the familiar melody. The hosts praise the creativity of the audience while jokingly critiquing the quality of the performance. Keywords: manama, [bahrain](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bahrain.md), [muppets](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/muppets.md), [fan art](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fan-art.md), theme song [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/128-coming-soon-the-cashless-society/chapter/8.md) ### 9. Lake Charles Surveillance, Bar Camera Ordinance (22:58–26:02) Police Chief Don Dixon of Lake Charles, Louisiana, proposed a city ordinance requiring bars to install surveillance cameras inside and outside their premises. The proposal follows a violent attack on an off-duty deputy and aims to increase public safety in establishments where alcohol sales exceed 50% of revenue. The trend is compared to the high density of CCTV cameras found in the United Kingdom. Keywords: lake charles, [cctv](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cctv.md), [surveillance](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/surveillance.md), don dixon, [city ordinance](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/city-ordinance.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/128-coming-soon-the-cashless-society/chapter/9.md) ### 10. FEMA for Kids, Disaster Preparedness Games (26:03–28:27) The FEMA for Kids website is analyzed for its use of games and cartoons to teach children about disasters. The hosts compare these modern efforts to the "duck and cover" drills of the 1950s, suggesting they serve to make the public more docile. The site features characters like Herman the Hermit Crab to explain complex safety concepts to a young audience. Keywords: [fema](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fema.md), [disaster preparedness](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/disaster-preparedness.md), [duck and cover](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/duck-and-cover.md), [propaganda](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/propaganda.md), kids website [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/128-coming-soon-the-cashless-society/chapter/10.md) ### 11. Terrorism Definitions, FEMA Website Imagery (28:27–32:03) FEMA's website provides a broad definition of terrorism for children, including assassinations, hijackings, and the use of chemical or nuclear weapons. The hosts criticize the site's visual design and the inclusion of "national security emergencies" alongside natural disasters. They suggest the imagery and color schemes used on the site are bizarre and potentially inappropriate for the subject matter. Keywords: [terrorism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/terrorism.md), [fema](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fema.md), [national security](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/national-security.md), [chemical weapons](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/chemical-weapons.md), [website design](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/website-design.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/128-coming-soon-the-cashless-society/chapter/11.md) ### 12. Cash for Appliances, Energy Star Rebate Program (32:09–36:04) Following the "Cash for Clunkers" car program, a new federal initiative provides rebates for energy-efficient home appliances. The program, funded by stimulus money, allows states to set their own rules for rebates on refrigerators, washers, and dryers. To qualify, consumers must purchase products with the Energy Star logo, which signifies a higher level of energy efficiency. Keywords: [cash for clunkers](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cash-for-clunkers.md), energy star, [rebates](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/rebates.md), [appliances](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/appliances.md), [stimulus money](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/stimulus-money.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/128-coming-soon-the-cashless-society/chapter/12.md) ### 13. Energy Star Branding, The Lorax and Kids Marketing (36:05–39:50) The Energy Star program utilizes Dr. Seuss's "The Lorax" to market environmentalism to children through interactive websites. The hosts explore the "Meet the Energy Stars" section, which features anthropomorphic characters like "Laptop Larry" and "Celine Fanagan." They question the cost of these government-funded web projects and the actual efficiency standards required to earn the Energy Star trademark. Keywords: energy star, the lorax, [dr. seuss](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/dr-seuss.md), [green energy](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/green-energy.md), [branding](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/branding.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/128-coming-soon-the-cashless-society/chapter/13.md) ### 14. Fluorescent Light Bulbs, Mercury and Dimming Issues (39:51–43:36) The phase-out of 100-watt incandescent bulbs in Europe and the shift toward compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) is discussed. The hosts complain about the poor light quality, the presence of mercury in the bulbs, and the tendency for CFLs to dim significantly over time. They note that most of these bulbs are manufactured in China and express skepticism about their long-term environmental benefits. Keywords: [fluorescent bulbs](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fluorescent-bulbs.md), [mercury](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mercury.md), [incandescent bulbs](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/incandescent-bulbs.md), [china](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/china.md), light quality [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/128-coming-soon-the-cashless-society/chapter/14.md) ### 15. Washing Machine Standards, Top-Loader Ban Theory (43:37–47:40) A discussion on appliance regulations focuses on the shift from top-loading to front-loading washing machines. One host posits that the ban on traditional top-loaders during the Clinton administration was a result of corporate lobbying or corruption rather than pure energy efficiency. The segment explores the perceived lack of convenience and effectiveness in modern front-loading units. Keywords: [washing machines](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/washing-machines.md), maytag, whirlpool, front-loaders, [bill clinton](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bill-clinton.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/128-coming-soon-the-cashless-society/chapter/15.md) ### 16. Mandatory Military Vaccinations, Swine Flu Mandate (47:41–49:24) The Department of Defense announced that H1N1 swine flu vaccinations will be mandatory for all active-duty U.S. military personnel starting in October 2009. Priority will be given to healthcare workers, deploying troops, and those serving on submarines. While families of service members have the option to receive the vaccine, uniformed personnel cannot refuse the immunization. Keywords: [swine flu](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/swine-flu.md), [h1n1](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/h1n1.md), [department of defense](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/department-of-defense.md), [mandatory vaccination](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mandatory-vaccination.md), [us military](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/us-military.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/128-coming-soon-the-cashless-society/chapter/16.md) ### 17. Military Presence at Sporting Events, Berkeley Swearing-In Ceremony (49:24–52:34) During a football game between the University of California and Maryland in Berkeley, a group of recruits was sworn into the military on the field during halftime. One host expresses discomfort with the increasing presence of military ceremonies at commercial sporting events. The discussion questions the cultural shift toward performing nationalistic rituals in non-governmental settings. Keywords: [national anthem](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/national-anthem.md), [berkeley](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/berkeley.md), [university of california](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/university-of-california.md), [military recruitment](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/military-recruitment.md), [football](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/football.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/128-coming-soon-the-cashless-society/chapter/17.md) ### 18. US Electricity Sources, Coal and Nuclear Power (52:35–55:03) A breakdown of U.S. electricity generation reveals that coal remains the primary source at 49%, followed by natural gas at 20% and nuclear power at 19.4%. Hydroelectric power accounts for 7%, while oil and other renewables represent a very small fraction of the total energy mix. The hosts note the surprisingly low contribution of wind energy despite its frequent promotion in the media. Keywords: [electricity](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/electricity.md), [coal](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/coal.md), [nuclear power](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nuclear-power.md), [natural gas](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/natural-gas.md), [renewable energy](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/renewable-energy.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/128-coming-soon-the-cashless-society/chapter/18.md) ### 19. WHO Mock-Up Vaccines, Fast-Tracking H1N1 Safety (55:04–57:18) The World Health Organization (WHO) and pharmaceutical companies like GlaxoSmithKline are fast-tracking H1N1 vaccines using "mock-up" versions to expedite regulatory approval. This process involves conducting safety and effectiveness studies after the vaccine has already been administered to the public. The hosts express concern over the limited clinical data available before mass vaccination begins. Keywords: [world health organization](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/world-health-organization.md), [h1n1](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/h1n1.md), [glaxosmithkline](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/glaxosmithkline.md), [clinical trials](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/clinical-trials.md), [vaccine safety](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/vaccine-safety.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/128-coming-soon-the-cashless-society/chapter/19.md) ### 20. Mass Vaccination Hubs, Pandemic Definition Changes (57:19–59:22) Washington D.C. officials are preparing mass vaccination centers at recreation centers and clinics to combat the fall swine flu season. The discussion highlights that the WHO recently changed the definition of a "pandemic" to focus on the spread of a new virus rather than the severity of the illness or death toll. Additionally, the government has granted legal immunity to vaccine manufacturers, preventing citizens from suing over adverse reactions. Keywords: [washington dc](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/washington-dc.md), adrian fenty, [pandemic](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pandemic.md), [swine flu](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/swine-flu.md), [vaccine liability](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/vaccine-liability.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/128-coming-soon-the-cashless-society/chapter/20.md) ### 21. College Quarantines, Gardasil and Parental Rights (59:24–1:02:40) Emory University has established "swine flu dorms" to isolate infected students, a trend appearing at colleges across the United States. In the UK, a mother faced threats of having her child removed by social workers after linking her daughter's paralysis to a cervical cancer vaccine. The segment explores the tension between government health mandates and parental rights in both the US and the UK. Keywords: [emory university](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/emory-university.md), [gardasil](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gardasil.md), [merck](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/merck.md), [national health service](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/national-health-service.md), [parental rights](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/parental-rights.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/128-coming-soon-the-cashless-society/chapter/21.md) ### 22. Digital Money, Social Security Debit Cards and Walmart (1:02:41–1:07:28) The U.S. Treasury is transitioning Social Security and Supplemental Security Income recipients to prepaid debit cards issued by Comerica Bank. Similarly, Walmart has announced a move to paperless payroll, paying employees via direct deposit or debit cards through First Data Corporation. The hosts argue these shifts benefit banks through transaction fees while increasing the risk of identity theft for "consumers." Keywords: [social security](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/social-security.md), [debit cards](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/debit-cards.md), comerica bank, [walmart](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/walmart.md), [direct deposit](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/direct-deposit.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/128-coming-soon-the-cashless-society/chapter/22.md) ### 23. Obama Retirement Savings Plan, 401k and Savings Bonds (1:07:29–1:13:12) President Obama proposed several changes to encourage retirement savings, including automatic 401k enrollment for small business employees and the option to receive tax refunds as savings bonds. The plan also includes a tax credit to match half of a family's savings up to $1,000. Critics suggest these measures are designed to funnel more capital into the Wall Street financial system following the loss of $2 trillion in retirement funds. Keywords: [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md), [401k](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/401k.md), iras, savings bonds, [wall street](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/wall-street.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/128-coming-soon-the-cashless-society/chapter/23.md) ### 24. No Agenda Roundtable, Las Vegas Dinner Event (1:13:12–1:16:09) The first No Agenda Roundtable Dinner is scheduled for October 3rd in Las Vegas, Nevada, featuring a limited number of spots for donors. The hosts discuss the logistics of the event and observe a recent uptick in restaurant activity in San Francisco and Silicon Valley. They speculate whether this economic "bottoming" is a genuine recovery or a temporary surge before a larger financial collapse. Keywords: [las vegas](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/las-vegas.md), roundtable dinner, [fundraising](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fundraising.md), [economy](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/economy.md), [san francisco](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/san-francisco.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/128-coming-soon-the-cashless-society/chapter/24.md) ### 25. Donor Acknowledgments, Ringtone Requests and Knighting (1:16:11–1:23:04) The hosts read a list of donors who contributed various amounts, some referencing historical tech milestones like the Intel 8008 chip. Listeners from Canada, Australia, and the UK are acknowledged for their support. A significant $500 donation from a listener in Clovis, New Mexico, results in him being named a "Patron Knight" of the show. Keywords: [donations](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/donations.md), [ringtones](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ringtones.md), microprocessor, [australia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/australia.md), [knighting](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/knighting.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/128-coming-soon-the-cashless-society/chapter/25.md) ### 26. Value-for-Value Model, Criticism of TV Advertising (1:23:04–1:25:11) The podcast's "value-for-value" funding model is contrasted with traditional television advertising, which the hosts argue ruins the pacing and integrity of content. They cite Keith Olbermann's show as an example of excessive commercial breaks and repetitive "teasing" of segments. The hosts reiterate their commitment to remaining ad-free to avoid corporate influence. Keywords: [advertising](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/advertising.md), [keith olbermann](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/keith-olbermann.md), [glenn beck](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/glenn-beck.md), [tivo](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tivo.md), [podcasting](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/podcasting.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/128-coming-soon-the-cashless-society/chapter/26.md) ### 27. Life Settlements, Wall Street Death Bonds (1:25:12–1:27:32) Wall Street investors are increasingly purchasing "life settlements," which are life insurance policies sold by elderly or ill individuals for immediate cash. These policies are packaged into bonds and sold to investors who profit when the original policyholders die. The hosts describe this as a "perfect straddle" when combined with investments in pharmaceutical companies producing vaccines. Keywords: life settlements, death bonds, [credit suisse](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/credit-suisse.md), [life insurance](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/life-insurance.md), [derivatives](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/derivatives.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/128-coming-soon-the-cashless-society/chapter/27.md) ### 28. Solitaire in Government, Supreme Court Corporate Spending (1:27:33–1:30:18) A photograph from a budget meeting in Hartford, Connecticut, allegedly shows legislators playing solitaire and watching baseball on their laptops during a debate. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court, featuring new Justice Sonia Sotomayor, is set to hear a case regarding corporate spending in federal elections. The ruling could potentially remove limits on direct corporate donations to political campaigns. Keywords: [connecticut](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/connecticut.md), solitaire, [sonia sotomayor](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sonia-sotomayor.md), [supreme court](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/supreme-court.md), [corporate donations](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/corporate-donations.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/128-coming-soon-the-cashless-society/chapter/28.md) ### 29. University of California, Administrative Salaries and Tuition (1:30:18–1:34:53) The University of California system is facing criticism for high administrative salaries, with some officials earning over $300,000 annually while the state faces a budget crisis. To increase revenue, the university plans to raise the percentage of out-of-state and international students. The hosts argue that the high cost of attendance is pricing out middle-class California families from their own state institutions. Keywords: [university of california](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/university-of-california.md), [berkeley](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/berkeley.md), [tuition](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tuition.md), administrative pay, [tax exemption](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tax-exemption.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/128-coming-soon-the-cashless-society/chapter/29.md) ### 30. Advanced Placement Scam, College Admissions Standards (1:34:54–1:37:59) The discussion turns to the "Advanced Placement" (AP) system, which allows students to achieve GPAs higher than 4.0 through extra credits. One host characterizes this as a "money-making scheme" that has become a requirement for admission into top-tier public universities. This system is criticized for creating an uneven playing field and complicating the path to higher education. Keywords: [advanced placement](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/advanced-placement.md), [gpa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gpa.md), [college admissions](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/college-admissions.md), extra credit, [education](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/education.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/128-coming-soon-the-cashless-society/chapter/30.md) ### 31. John Murtha, House Voting Procedures and Sign-Off (1:38:02–1:41:30) A C-SPAN clip of Representative John Murtha shows a controversial voice vote in the House of Representatives where he appears to ignore opposition. Despite audible "nays," Murtha declared the motion passed, leading to heated parliamentary inquiries from the floor. The episode concludes with the hosts discussing their upcoming travel plans and the next scheduled show. Keywords: john murtha, [c-span](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/c-span.md), [house of representatives](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/house-of-representatives.md), parliamentary inquiry, [voting](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/voting.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/128-coming-soon-the-cashless-society/chapter/31.md) - [Previous episode](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/127-poppy-futures-blooming.md) - [Next episode](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/129-unionize-everything.md) --- This is the markdown version of a page on The No Agenda Show for AI agents. 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