Senator Marco Rubio Dropping His Co-Sponsorship Of PIPA

Politics

from the another-down dept

Wed, Jan 18th 2012 8:01am — Mike Masnick

It appears that the some in Congress are finally hearing you. Senator Marco Rubio, from Florida, has announced that he is removing his name as a co-sponsor of PIPA and is urging Senator Harry Reid not to go ahead with the plan to bring the bill to the floor.

Earlier this year, this bill passed the Senate Judiciary Committee unanimously and without controversy. Since then, we've heard legitimate concerns about the impact the bill could have on access to the Internet and about a potentially unreasonable expansion of the federal government's power to impact the Internet. Congress should listen and avoid rushing through a bill that could have many unintended consequences.

Therefore, I have decided to withdraw my support for the Protect IP Act. Furthermore, I encourage Senator Reid to abandon his plan to rush the bill to the floor. Instead, we should take more time to address the concerns raised by all sides, and come up with new legislation that addresses Internet piracy while protecting free and open access to the Internet.

Publicity stunt? Or democracy in action? I vote for the latter. It's good to see politicians actually listening to constituents rather than lobbyists sometimes...

Thank you for reading this Techdirt post. With so many things competing for everyone’s attention these days, we really appreciate you giving us your time. We work hard every day to put quality content out there for our community.

Techdirt is one of the few remaining truly independent media outlets. We do not have a giant corporation behind us, and we rely heavily on our community to support us, in an age when advertisers are increasingly uninterested in sponsoring small, independent sites — especially a site like ours that is unwilling to pull punches in its reporting and analysis.

While other websites have resorted to paywalls, registration requirements, and increasingly annoying/intrusive advertising, we have always kept Techdirt open and available to anyone. But in order to continue doing so, we need your support. We offer a variety of ways for our readers to support us, from direct donations to special subscriptions and cool merchandise — and every little bit helps. Thank you.

–The Techdirt Team

Filed Under: backlash, blackouts, marco rubio, pipa, protect ip, protests, sopa, sponsors

50 Comments

If you liked this post, you may also be interested in...

Reader Comments

Subscribe: RSS

View by: Time | Thread

Marcel de Jong (profile), 18 Jan 2012 @ 8:11am

It's weird that it is newsworthy to mention that a senator listens to his constituents.

You'd think that that'd be the default behaviour, after all they voted him in democratically as their representative.

Demos cratos, for the people.
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
- Anonymous Coward, 18 Jan 2012 @ 8:31am
  
  Re:
  It's not just that he listened it's that he's a co-sponsor of the bill that makes it newsworthy.
  [ link to this | view in chronology ]
  - PaulT (profile), 18 Jan 2012 @ 9:06am
    
    Re: Re:
    Indeed. Now, I wonder if once the dust clears he'll keep this in mind before signing other bad laws, or if he's only this honest when there's millions of people actively opposing him.
    [ link to this | view in chronology ]
    - Gary, 19 Jan 2012 @ 12:20pm
      
      Re: Re: Re:
      We need a site to track them I'll donate.
      [ link to this | view in chronology ]
  - btrussell (profile), 18 Jan 2012 @ 9:56am
    
    Re: Re:
    Too bad he didn't read it before.
    [ link to this | view in chronology ]
  - DH's Love Child (profile), 18 Jan 2012 @ 12:36pm
    
    Re: Re:
    No.. I think it's that he listened that makes it newsworthy. that's almost an anachronism these days
    [ link to this | view in chronology ]
David (profile), 18 Jan 2012 @ 8:12am

About time Congressmen listen
I'm glad I wrote him, along with the others in FL.

Now it's time to hit the other senator in FL who apparently needs more persuasion...
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
- xenomancer (profile), 18 Jan 2012 @ 8:37am
  
  Re: About time Congressmen listen
  Ya, I hope Nelson isn't too stuck up to follow suit and consider the opinions of those he supposedly represents.
  [ link to this | view in chronology ]
  - :Lobo Santo (profile), 18 Jan 2012 @ 8:40am
    
    Re: Re: About time Congressmen listen
    Hey, there's a reason shepherds don't listen to sheep...
    [/troll]
    [ link to this | view in chronology ]
    - demented, 18 Jan 2012 @ 11:06am
      
      Re: Re: Re: About time Congressmen listen
      And a reason why wolves don't listen to sheep either.
      [ link to this | view in chronology ]
      - Dementia (profile), 18 Jan 2012 @ 11:29am
        
        Re: Re: Re: Re: About time Congressmen listen
        I have an imitator???
        [ link to this | view in chronology ]
- Michael Avery (profile), 19 Jan 2012 @ 8:39am
  
  Re: About time Congressmen listen
  I wrote to both Rubio and Nelson about a month ago, but it looks like Rubio is the first to respond publicly. To his credit, he also sent an auto-response that said to "please expect my response in the near future" back on the 12/20, something that Nelson's bots failed to do.
  
  And I must say, Rubio's announcement is the best response to a complaint that I've ever gotten from a congressman (besides the thoughtful letter I once received from my local supervisor of elections). Nelson on the other hand, I wouldn't hold my breath. Too bad another Dem isn't stepping up to his incumbency.
  [ link to this | view in chronology ]
John Doe, 18 Jan 2012 @ 8:13am

CYA stunt?
CYA stunt gets my vote.
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Chronno S. Trigger (profile), 18 Jan 2012 @ 8:24am

If it is a publicity stunt...
He's doing the right thing for the wrong reasons, but that doesn't matter. This isn't the Anla'shok, what's inside only matters to him. It's what's outside that's important to others. As long as he's doing the right thing (listening to his constituents), it's all good.
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Ninja (profile), 18 Jan 2012 @ 8:24am

And Lamar Smith sinks his fingers on his ears abruptly and screams loudly: "I can't hear you all, you are all meanies and are bullying poor Lamar! I'm gonna call mommy if you keep doing it!" along with some other nonsensical mumbling while shedding big, wet tears.
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
- xenomancer (profile), 18 Jan 2012 @ 8:40am
  
  Re:
  I keep wondering if his ear canals meet in the center of his head. He's sunk his fingers in so far, I'm sure he's past his ear drums by now.
  [ link to this | view in chronology ]
Chrissy, 18 Jan 2012 @ 8:28am

Internet Super PAC?
Ultimately, this is just a blip on the radar. Even if PIPA/SOPA are prevented during this session there will always be the next sessions of congress. Additionally, how will things ever improve if the fight is constantly on the defense and having to fight worse and worse measures?

Why not start some type of Super PAC with backing of many of the same folks involved in the black outs/white outs today? Work towards going against re-election of folks who are in the pockets of organizations like MPAA and RIAA as well as those who do support these SOPA type bills?
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
- Anonymous Coward, 18 Jan 2012 @ 8:51am
  
  Re: Internet Super PAC?
  We need to be proactive and oppose our current IP laws and demand that many of them be repealed. Start with reducing copy protection lengths, then continue onto lowering insane infringement penalties, and continue onto increasing penalties for false infringement claims, then continue onto making copy protection opt in.
  
  and the above isn't even really considered being proactive, it's simply being reactive to our existing laws. Being proactive would be something like creating a constitutional amendment limiting the scope and lengths of copy protection laws and creating federal laws that actively limit state and local government's ability to enact overreaching copy protection laws.
  [ link to this | view in chronology ]
  - Hephaestus (profile), 18 Jan 2012 @ 9:23am
    
    Re: Re: Internet Super PAC?
    ... enact overreaching laws.
    
    FTFY
    [ link to this | view in chronology ]
  - ltlw0lf (profile), 18 Jan 2012 @ 11:52am
    
    Re: Re: Internet Super PAC?
    continue onto increasing penalties for false infringement claims
    
    Agree, but for false infringement claims, I believe there should only be one penalty -- you lose your copyrights. If it is shown in court that you cannot be a good citizen, then someone else should take over your copyrights. In the case of a corporation, the copyright should immediately revert back to the individual who wrote/recorded/etc., the work in question. For individuals, the copyright is null and void and the work immediately becomes public domain. That is the only way you'll get these folks to stop being childish and start being good citizens.
    [ link to this | view in chronology ]
- Gary, 19 Jan 2012 @ 12:24pm
  
  Re: Internet Super PAC?
  I agree Chrissy put them on defensive.
  [ link to this | view in chronology ]
mike allen (profile), 18 Jan 2012 @ 8:31am

Over this side of the Atlantic pond some great coverage on BBC site athttp://www.bbc.co.uk/news/technology-16608314 Radio England internet only news nothing but SOPA / PIPA news
Main news media covering including The guardian news paper.
at http://www.guardian.co.uk/technology/2012/jan/18/wikipedia-blackout-protest
THE register http://www.theregister.co.uk/2012/01/18/a_preview_of_what_sopa_would_be_like/ good luck guys hope you kill the acts.
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
- Call me Al, 18 Jan 2012 @ 8:46am
  
  Re:
  Thanks Mike. Nice to see the BBC's slideshow. I'd missed that in my own browsing.
  
  Any comment from the US on how your own press is reporting on this? I know the TV News coverage has been shoddy but what about the Press and their websites?
  [ link to this | view in chronology ]
  - mike allen (profile), 18 Jan 2012 @ 9:00am
    
    Re: Re:
    I think we are doing better than the US press for coverage of this I only know what you guys are saying about your coverage though.
    [ link to this | view in chronology ]
  - Edward Teach, 18 Jan 2012 @ 9:14am
    
    PIPA/SOPA on NPR
    The US "National Public Radio", a weird beast in and of itself, is reporting on PIPA and SOPA. Heard it yesterday during aternoon drive time, and this morning.
    
    NPR's reporting struck me as a bit naive, like they're just hearing about these bills right now. They seem to be doing he said/she said stories, giving MPAA and RIAA and Chamber of Commerce some credibility on the issue.
    [ link to this | view in chronology ]
  - ltlw0lf (profile), 18 Jan 2012 @ 11:58am
    
    Re: Re:
    Any comment from the US on how your own press is reporting on this? I know the TV News coverage has been shoddy but what about the Press and their websites?
    
    For me, I've seen a lot of "why wikipedia is offline" reports, but they've gone out of the way to explain the controversy in their own words (underblown/overblown.) But it is nice to see that the media finally has to cover SOPA/PIPA since they've been ignoring it for so long.
    [ link to this | view in chronology ]
mike allen (profile), 18 Jan 2012 @ 8:33am

sorry typo there here is the BBC link again http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/technology-16608314 Radio England internet only news nothing but SOPA / PIPA news
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Violated (profile), 18 Jan 2012 @ 8:34am

So not only is this rats fleeing a sinking ship but they now turn on each other in the process.

Democracy in action indeed when now millions around the world wake up to a topic that the main news stations have barely covered. Then in their upset and annoyance they are overloading the US Government's communication systems.

I hear a fire that burns and burns and burns with the voice of freedom.
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Anonymous Coward, 18 Jan 2012 @ 8:37am

why has it taken such a shit storm to get some senators/congresscritters to actually listen to their constituents? they are the ones that are supposed to be represented, after all
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
mike allen (profile), 18 Jan 2012 @ 8:39am

more on main media
The Guardian are running a live blog dedicated to the day of action get in and comment if you want too http://www.guardian.co.uk/technology/2012/jan/18/sopa-blackout-day-of-action-live?newsfeed=true
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Keroberos (profile), 18 Jan 2012 @ 8:39am

What's scary is that he's only now removing his support from the bill. All this time he's been perfectly happy to support this horrible legislation and not once bothered to do any basic research on the full implications of passing it, but now, when his prospects for re-election are on the line he suddenly is concerned about the impact this legislation could cause? Too little, too late. Next time try doing your job and research the possible unintended consequences before rushing to pass laws helping your masters in Hollywood.
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
- Anonymous Coward, 18 Jan 2012 @ 8:52am
  
  Re:
  And keep in mind that he's one of the choices for a Republican VP.
  [ link to this | view in chronology ]
  - A Monkey with Atitude, 18 Jan 2012 @ 9:17am
    
    Re: Re:
    And Hollywood Joe is so great?
    [ link to this | view in chronology ]
A M Zakaria, 18 Jan 2012 @ 8:43am

Thank you
Thank you, sir.

My contribution towards dismantling SOPA on web site

http://staroba.my/Editorial/editorial-destroyers-of-the-internet-enemies-of-mankind-and-hitl ers-in-the-making.html
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Anonymous Coward, 18 Jan 2012 @ 8:46am

Other News: SCOTUS shrinks public domain again
�Opinion recap: The public domain shrinks� by Lyle Denniston, SCOTUS Blog Wed, Jan 18th, 2012

Analysis

In a historic ruling on Congress�s power to give authors and composers monopoly power over their creations, the Supreme Court on Tuesday broadly upheld the national legislature�s authority to withdraw works from the public domain and put them back under a copyright shield.

[...more...]
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
- DH's Love Child (profile), 18 Jan 2012 @ 12:40pm
  
  Re: Other News: SCOTUS shrinks public domain again
  This is sad, sad news. Basically it means the public domain will cease to exist soon.
  [ link to this | view in chronology ]
DannyB (profile), 18 Jan 2012 @ 8:46am

He is NOT listening to his constituents
He is simply reacting to the possibility of not receiving more constituents.

Where:

constituents == green pieces of paper with dead presidents.
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Anonymous Coward, 18 Jan 2012 @ 8:48am

(I POSTED THIS ELSEWHERE BUT IT NEEDS REPEATING... CALL NOW)

After visiting Wikipedia i found their app thet gives the names and phone numbers for my state reps very helpful. I entered my zip code and was able to call the Washington offices to tell them I was against sopa/pipa.

I was able to get through without a issue. Everyone who hasn't called should call.

Also, after speaking with them I get the feeling the phones are very busy today with like minded people.
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
- Anonymous Coward, 18 Jan 2012 @ 9:08am
  
  Re: [Keep calls coming!]
  Tried other Senator again�he's actually on record as now opposed�but doesn't hurt to firm up his opposition.
  
  Call got queued, "Staff busy due to high volume of calls".
  
  Keep trying until you get through.
  [ link to this | view in chronology ]
Marco Rubio, 18 Jan 2012 @ 8:56am

I'll sponsor any legislation my corporate donors tell me to, and fully support it. Until the vast majority of my constituants pay attention to what I'm doing and call me out on it. Then I'll tuck my tail between my legs and meekly withdraw my support.

My deepest apologies to the corporate donors. I owe you one.
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
- Skeptical Cynic (profile), 18 Jan 2012 @ 9:38am
  
  Re:
  Don't denigrate him because he did something. Most Pols don't have a clue what they are voting for or against. Sometimes it takes a public outcry before they decide that they have to educate themselves on the issue. Give him credit regardless of the reason he came out against it.
  
  Too often Pols just vote the line. When one steps out in any manner they should be praised.
  
  I bet this has not won him fans in the gov.
  [ link to this | view in chronology ]
  - Nastybutler77 (profile), 18 Jan 2012 @ 10:37am
    
    Re: Re:
    Too often Pols just vote the line. When one steps out in any manner they should be praised.
    
    I bet this has not won him fans in the gov.
    
    You're talking about "the line" like this is drawn up along party lines. It's not. This is a non partisan issue, which is why it comes down to lobbyists and their money. Usually when an issue is non partisan, whichever lobby throws the most money at the key memebers of Congress gets their pet bill passed quitely and without a fuss. It would have been the case here as well if it hadn't angered the internet.
    
    This won't affect his fan status as far as "the government" is concerned (whatever that means). His corporate masters on the other hand may be perturbed.
    [ link to this | view in chronology ]
Skeptical Cynic (profile), 18 Jan 2012 @ 9:28am

Spoke to my Senator's office
Johnny Isakson. Mike I told him that a lot of websites are covering who is for and against the bill and that he could see himself covered all over the web if he comes out against it.
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
cennis (profile), 18 Jan 2012 @ 9:41am

Did we break Mr. Rubio's website
I'm not a big fan of Marc Rubio, but in the interest of fairness and conciliation, I wanted to shoot a note to him, to thank him for making this statement. But, it looks like his site is down. :(

Sorry, the web page you have requested is experiencing technical difficulties. The Webmaster has been alerted.
You will be automatically redirected to the www.senate.gov home page after 10 seconds.

If this problem persists, please contact the Office of the Secretary Webmaster at webmaster@sec.senate.gov.
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Anonymous Coward, 18 Jan 2012 @ 9:53am

Numbers always impress, even when the vast majority of those contributing to the numbers haven't a clue what they are supporting. Democracy in action? Yes. Informed opinions being expressed by them? No.
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
- Anonymous Coward, 18 Jan 2012 @ 10:16am
  
  Re:
  These times must be very trying for you.
  [ link to this | view in chronology ]
- Anonymous Coward, 18 Jan 2012 @ 11:04am
  
  Re:
  If you feel that the people are ill-informed, that is in part your fault, but mostly the fault of the sponsors of the bill.
  
  Perhaps they should've informed the public instead of trying to rush the bill through. And by inform, I mean actually provide useful information, and not just the usual "Piracy is bad!" argument. People aren't buying into that any more.
  [ link to this | view in chronology ]
BackPackAdam (profile), 18 Jan 2012 @ 10:38am

Lee Terry, too
On his Facebook page, Lee Terry said that he is asking that his name be withdrawn from SOPA support.

This makes me happy since he is my senator.
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
johnny canada, 18 Jan 2012 @ 11:02am

Ben Quayle (R-Ariz.)
He has also dropped his support per the LA times
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Clouser, 18 Jan 2012 @ 1:16pm

rubio
I wrote and called Rubio, my Senator, a lot. I hope he heard me.

Now, we just need to get him to endorse Ron Paul for President in 2012.

I'm on it
[ link to this | view in chronology ]