http://www.boston.com/news/special/s...rt1/page1.html

Pretty low handed stuff here, and the judges and courts sound as corrupt as those who collect the debts. Some of the tactics spotlighted, sending court notices to old addresses, and despite getting notifications back from the Post Office that they've moved, they send future notices to the old address to appear in court. Then when the party doesn't appear the judge automatically rules for the plaintiff because the defendent didn't show.

They also use the police to do their dirty work, threatening some with jail. Last I checked debtors prison had disappeared? I'm sure uninformed consumers just get scared and fall for it. This looks like a good area for reform. Excellent article and series though for those who have the time to read it.

http://www.boston.com/news/special/s...rt1/page1.html

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All you need to know about the energy crisis:
ANWR Exploration Republicans: 91% Supported. Democrats: 86% Opposed.
Coal-to-liquid R's: 90% YES. D's: 78% NO.
Oil Shale Exploration R's: 90% YES. D's: 86% NO.
Outer Continental Shelf Exploration R's: 81% YES. D's: 83% NO.
Increased Refinery Capacity R's: 97% YES. D's: 96% NO

SUMMARY: 91% of House Republicans have historically voted to increase the production of America’s own oil and gas. 86% of House Democrats have historically voted against.