Don't Say "Tort Reform", Say "Consumer Penalty"

[ruggerson]

A discussion on another thread brings up, yet again, the way the Republicans have been successful in formulating political language that our side, like good little sheep, then adopts.

"Tort Reform" is THEIR phrase. And yet the MSM has adopted it and our guys are put in the position of having to say they "oppose reform." (Clever little devils these rightwing framers).

The issue is do we want to arbitrarily put caps on consumer verdict awards when average citizens try to bring corporations to justice for injury, fraud, endangerment, etc.

So, let's get the meme out on this one: It's the CONSUMER PENALTY.

Every single one of our candidates should use it. They can then proudly stand up and say they are AGAINST the consumer penalty and by simple word usage and reframing, get the public to see the issue, and Republican support of it, in an entirely different light.

Thoughts?

[sidwill]

1. Why not just

"Consumer protection"

As in "The Republicans want to weaken consumer protection to line the pockets of their corporate cronies."

[ruggerson]

2. I like that too

but they've named THEIR movement to change the system. ANd they've named it the non threatening, progressive sounding "Tort Reform."

SO rather than acquiesce to what they've named it, why don't we call it what it really is, a "Consumer Penalty."

They are, after all, attempting to take something away from consumers.

Consumer protection is a great name for the movement to STRENGTHEN court protections.

[iamtechus]

3. Republicans: consumer protection = protection from consumers

[No Exit]

4. I wholeheartedly agree with you!!!

[Captain Hilts]

5. 'Tort reform' is funded by pharmaceuticals, tobacco and auto industries.