Military Industrial Complex ~ Coast to Coast AM

Date: 01-15-11
Host: Ian Punnett
Guests: Russ Baker

In the first half, investigative reporter Russ Baker spoke about the odd string of "coincidental" historical anniversaries coming up this week that tie in with President Eisenhower's warning about the military-industrial complex (MIC). The MIC refers to the relationship between government, a nation's armed forces, and the industrial firms that supply their equipment. Fifty years ago, on January 17, 1961, Eisenhower warned about the MIC: "We must never let the weight of this combination endanger our liberties or democratic processes."

Eisenhower sensed the problems inherent in the relationship between military and industry, Baker explained, noting how the enterprise serves those involved and does not make the country any safer. He made connections to several anniversaries, including Martin Luther King Day, and the inaugurations of George W. Bush and John F. Kennedy. According to Baker, JFK saw increasing problems with the MIC apparatus, as it was unaccountable, irresponsible, and incompetent. Baker also referenced the recent mysterious death of former pentagon official John Wheeler, as well as Jared Lee Loughner's alleged shooting spree in Tucson, Arizona.