Topic: John Birch Society

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Playing the IRS card: Six presidents who used the IRS to bash political foes

Since the advent of the federal income tax about a century ago, several presidents – or their zealous underlings – have directed the IRS to use its formidable police powers to harass or punish enemies, political rivals, and administration critics. Here are six infamous episodes.

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Playing the IRS card: Six presidents who used the IRS to bash political foes

Since the advent of the federal income tax about a century ago, several presidents – or their zealous underlings – have directed the IRS to use its formidable police powers to harass or punish enemies, political rivals, and administration critics. Here are six infamous episodes.
Opinion: After IRS scandal: Right-wing fear of government isn't paranoid

Whatever the motivations for the IRS targeting conservative groups, it has drawn condemnation from across the political spectrum. Liberals also worry the scandal will feed right-wing paranoia of government. But for conservatives, fear of federal agencies is rooted in history, not hysteria.
Decoder Wire Ted Cruz presidential race 2016: Whose worst nightmare?

Some conservative leaders reportedly are urging Sen. Ted Cruz of Texas to run for president in 2016. That could be a nightmare for either Democrats, other Republicans, or even Cruz himself.
Opinion: Donald Trump, the 'birthers,' and the GOP's moment of truth

Serious Republicans would never let a 9/11 conspiracy theorist near the White House. So why are they not denouncing Donald Trump's 'birther' theories as utterly false?
Why is Glenn Beck freaking out over Egypt and a caliphate?

Fox News commentator Glenn Beck finds in Egypt’s democratic revolution a conspiracy involving left and right. Other conservatives are distancing themselves from Beck’s “delusional ravings.”
Where does the tea party philosophy come from? One hint is in its name.

Historians and political scientists will be examining the tea party movement for years. Some are starting to lay out what they see as the philosophical underpinnings of this unique insurgency.
Trouble brewing between the Tea Party movement and the GOP?

Members of the Tea Party movement say they are not beholden to the GOP.
‘Tea party’ movement: lessons from earlier uprisings

While movements like the tea party have fervor and anger, historians caution that such groups can quickly lose momentum and influence.
'Tea party' in California, including a dump truck brigade

In California, one main issue is environmental laws. But protesters are targeting taxes and healthcare reform too.