So refreshing to see the president of the US doing actual politics, after the seemingly endless years of Trump just screaming, bullying and continuously masturbating in front of cameras but amounting to nothing… Even if it isn’t all perfect, Biden is still doing a damn good job.
War for which there is any reasonable necessity is rarely if ever a "cakewalk", and how many innocent lives are destroyed? Great to see diplomacy at work as an alternative to violence; competent emotional adults given adult responsibilities once again.
With so much news focused on tfg and his indictments and all the natural disasters from climate change, it's hard to even be aware of international news. Thankfully Joe Biden and Anthony Blinken are in charge of it and HCR keeps us informed.
i was thinking the same. i was wondering how to get more international news instead of tfg and the violent threats in this country. while important, i am so grateful to hear of blinken’s diplomatic efforts.
Correct Fran, this sort of news gets little ink, receives little attention, altho much of this under the “news cycle” radar sort of information is important
Just somehow get that across to a sufficient number of American voters. I do believe there was a recent poll which suggested 1/4 of Republicans would vote against Trump, about 50% of independents, a growing and restive group i suspect, and of course a large majority of Democrats, per Claire McMaskill last night. "no path for Donald Trump" was her surmise. Hope she's got her finger on a real pulse.
President Joe Biden seems to have learnt from the past foreign policies of Presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama. Invasion of Afghanistan more than 20 years ago led to a long-standing war that didn't achieve its encapsulated goals. Instead, the US army overstayed and its lack of end-game made the war strategy blunt. Similarly, Obama in Libya was not cautious enough to calculate and anticipate the consequences of its direct military involvement. The results were disastrous, with the country failing to restore itself to democracy. Since the killing of Muhammar Gaddafi, Libya has become an all-time embroiled in turmoil that has exceedingly dilapidated the economic, political and judicial structures, and abuse of human rights.
However, US foreign policy is being tested in Niger. Niger coup is an interesting event that abruptly happened and surprised African countries given that the first leader was democratically elected in 2011. However, West African leaders through the ECOWAS do not want the junta coup leaders to continue leading the country as they believe that the embattled President Bazoum should be reinstated. However, though the coup leader cited insecurity as well as economic woes, these are scapegoat excuses considering that Niger was still healing from the statelessness and lawlessness upto 2011. Of course, we can't ignore competing political domestic interests and thus we cannot rule out an extended hand from the opposition who might benefit from the violence. However, we might not know whether the Wagner Group had an hand in it, but for now, they want to benefit from the already carried out coup to position itself as a champion of the anti-French government and obviously counter the political power of the US in Africa. So, it is true, the Wagner is spreading propaganda as evident in crowds holding Russian flags. But, again, this is an organized coup done by money-oiled states and junta groups, so Wagner might have had an interest. The target of the Wagner is uranium that the country mines, as that has been the case, but they masquerade as security providers. The jihadist group has been posing insecurity in Niger and coupled with failure of the French government to stop it, but Abdouramane Oumarou, Umoja Party, and MPD party are taking advantage of this insecurity by being pro-Russia and getting funds from Russia.
I welcome you to subscribe to my newsletter so to enable me to cover African stories that you need to know. It is just free to be my subscriber. For others who have been asking me, I haven't activated payments because I need you for free, but the link for donations only is on my top page.
Biden has exceeded my wildest hopes and expectations. His next move should be to step aside now and let younger, progressive Democrats vie for the POTUS nomination.
I shudder to think what chaos there would be here and around the world had Trump managed to pull off his coup d'etat. Everyone here needs to be involved in local and national politics at least through next year's elections.
I don't think Biden should step aside now. I think it would be disastrous.
I do look forward to younger progressive Democrats in 2028, but I see no one currently able to get the support and the votes needed to be sure NO Republican wins in 2024.
Joe is in good health and has racked up a great record. He is also good at pointing out the tremendous value in supporting and reinvigorated American democracy. And, his foreign relations savvy is extremely helpful in the world right now.
I don't think Biden should step aside yet. He's shown that he's still got it, and I believe he can get re-elected next year. We have a lot of good Democratic up-and-comers, but I don't think they are quite ready to step in.
No other American has Biden’s experience and record. Even John Kerry, who should have won in 2004 and is now busy with climate change negotiations, cannot take his place. America has so many ill “senior citizens,” there is such an epidemic of ageism, that many of all ages do not realize that a long, healthy, busy life is possible. At 89, I know that it is. We are very fortunate to have a president with a fine group of advisors.
"America has so many ill “senior citizens,” there is such an epidemic of ageism, that many of all ages do not realize that a long, healthy, busy life is possible."
Right you are. And those of us who are still going have a responsibility to the young ones who can profit from our experience (the young ones over 60 included.)
In the abstract, I agree. In the real world, Biden stepping aside would create too much uncertainty when we need a steady, guiding hand.
What Democrat stands a better chance of winning the White House other than Biden? None. I wish this wasn't the case because of his age. But in this divided nation, a more progressive candidate would likely cost Democrats votes, especially among independents.
This is no time to gamble and possibly open the door to Trump or any other fascist in a Republican disguise.
For whom? Really, seriously, for whom? Who would Democrats, independents and sane republicans vote for to take the Presidency? Because that is what is needed, and I just don't think the Vice President is that candidate. As I see it, one of the most important things Biden and Harris and all Democrats have to do during Biden's next term is to get some younger, intelligent, progressively moderate people either into politics for the first time or improve their standing if they are already involved, so there WILL be someone who will win by as large a margin as possible in 2028, both the presidency and any House and Senate seats and state governorships. There is so much work still to do to recover from the damage done by Reagan and afterward, and we cannot afford any more setbacks.
Richard, who are these younger, deeply knowledgeable, experienced leaders who can reach most of the American people inspiring us to work together and know how important that is to all of us. I believe there are several of them who need to come forward.
Have you read 'American democracy is cracking. These forces help explain why'? It is in today's Washington Post. I recommend it.
'Many Americans believe the political system is broken. A Post analysis examined the forces fueling the sense that government fails to represent the people.'
By Dan Balz and Clara Ence Morse. A link to article is below. Sorry that I could not gift it.
Our Loudoun County Democratic Committee just today published a 'We did this' newsletter, listing the party's many local, state and national achievements. I forwarded it broadly. What a powerhouse of information for election advocacy and to just plain counteract the dearth of media coverage.
Though the imagery is ghastly, it describes well the resulting product of narcissist Trump's flapping jaws, anytime he engages them.
For the sake of our democracy, and democracy's ideal the world over, let's push and pray that our electorate snaps to in order to overcome the new Confederacy's attempts to suppress our right to vote; that we exercise that right in massive, record breaking numbers and that we finally end contemporary Republicans' Reign of Error!
I do however note that the defense attorneys' latest maneuverings in LitigationWorld consist of a motion to move the January 6 trial forward to APRIL 2026. And the defendant has decided, possibly, not to appear at the republican presidential debate hosted by False News.
And honestly, my first thought when I saw April 2026 was that 1993 Bob Mankoff cartoon from the New Yorker, "No, Thursday's no good. How about never - is never good for you?" https://tinyurl.com/yc5sjjfx (another ridiculously long URL, this time, NPR; I promise it's real.) It never gets old.
That touched a nerve, Lynn. Back in '93 a good friend had started backing away from my calls and attempts to get together, and then appeared the Mankoff cartoon, which said it all. The friendship did end, until decades later I heard she was in hospice, and I called her, and we made amends, and soon afterwards she passed away.
I'm sorry to have touched that nerve, Mim. It's hard when friends "ghost" you - ask me how I know. But glad to learn that you got back together before it was too late.
It really is refreshing. More than that, it offers a modicum of hope. It feels as if we're living through one of the difficult times we've ever faced. There is a global undercurrent of fear that could spark into conflict at any time. I can't begin to imagine what it would be like Agent Orange, DT, were in charge. Can't remember a time he ever demonstrated any awareness of diplomacy. He grew up in a small right wing town in S. California.. His father was a John Bircher. One of the more extremist right wing groups during that period. Agent Orange is a 'chip' off the old block. I just stumbled across this Bob Dylan song about the John Birchers... https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U5Xn9YOKPcQ
"Agent Orange"... That's hilarious. It's a new one for me, I'll remember it. And thanks for the info on the John Birch Society! That puts some puzzle pieces in their places...
I read this newsletter to learn about other things besides the activities of the orange putrescence. He is NOT the only thing happening in the world, even though he is a serious threat.
I espeically appreciate that Heather continues to draw attention to foreign policy in Africa, but we need to be reminded that many of these issues are global, with the same themes appearing in Latin America and South and Central Asia. The less developed world will be the main source of markets for the US and sources of strategically critical natural resources like battery metals. Promoting democracy-based stable governments will be key to combating climate change, world hunger and mass migration and providing economic opportunity worldwide but especially in the developed nations which are seeing aging populations and slow population growth.
This is so in line of my opinion too. Though barely understanding what goes on there -in all things considered- it seems a reasonable synopsis that developing countries would provide the ample growth for consumption -ie avoiding the usual aggressive competition tactics deemed necessary. That China and the US would have more than plenty to ‘sell to’ if everyone was prospering.
This continued one-up-man-ship costs not only innocent lives but after restoration expenses...seems like the ‘leaders’ of too many countries want CONTROL regardless the expense which ...has any one of them taken the toll? When in fact shoring up emerging countries all together could vastly shorten the intended goal ...the fastest route to customers...is everyone interested pulling together ...that a no brainer...?
Instead wars are waged internally/externally/near globally ad infinitum and mess after mess ( count them! ) to ‘clean up’ ...🤷♀️🤦♀️😔 so sad.
Seems there’s enough of ‘the big guys’ if they could join hands / get over this endless wanting to be king-of-the-hill game ...ALL would prosper monetarily as well as be equally regarded as winners.
Look at how the world smiled when Biden pulled the coalition of nations back to NATO alliance....and btw is still striving further for...
Am I THE ONLY ONE WHO SEES THIS...or is my rose colored glasses talking ..again?
Is seems there’s a growing number of people in reality understanding the intricate maneuvers to run this country...play the peacekeeper for world unity...gather togetherness coalitions...and also see the slights of hand/mind in disruptive politics/ grandstanding ..done trying to undermine for personal gain.
Imagine an 80+ year old managing all that..huh?
It’s called experience, good behind the scene choices of trusted friends and choices well thought over.
The history of American foreign policy is often not pretty and we have ended up with many problem still with us today because of our intrusion into other countries in various ways. However, I feel like what Biden and Blinken are doing is actually good and of course, they have had to repair the damage done by death star.
“Not pretty” is putting it mildly. Iran is a good example. Iran is our enemy because Eisenhower, at the behest of big oil, repaced Iran’s elected president with a dictator. Cuba is a similar story. We should have rejoiced when Castro ousted the brutal dictator, Batista. Biden and Blinken are for sure a big improvement over our past behavior which, to be sure, isn’t all bad. The Marshall plan, a project of Democrats, is a marvelous exception. Probably Dems could get approval from the American electorate for the Marshall plan because the people it helped looked like our dominant class. Regardless, it was a great success.
I am aware of our intrusion into Iran and Cuba and other places where we couldn't accept democratically elected leaders. I am reminded too of the book Lawrence in Arabia about the Middle East during WWI including an American oilman along with the Brits, the French, and the Israelis who did not have a state yet. I agree that the Marshall Plan is a good exception. My husband traveled to England and Sweden looking at unemployment strategies with funds provided by that plan. At one point we were willing to aid and abet brutal leaders as long as they sang the anti-Communist song. And of course, our work for United Fruit in Central America.
Yes, the partition after WWI of the Middle East into sheikdoms by Britain, France, and the US (described by Sir Lawrence in his sprawling book) is another example of catastrophic meddling, although Britain probably bears more of the blame than the US in that case. By contrast, the US carries all the blame for the United Fruit atrocity in Central and South America, another mistake that Eisenhower played a big role in while his henchmen, the nefarious Dulles brothers, were busy screwing up Southeast Asia.
I wrote a long one and lost it. In two words: no population increase. Children born now may starve. Adopt an orphan if you want to raise a child. Look at UN figures from the 1970’s when the total was 2.2 children for existing families.
That's happened to me a couple of times. Now I write my comments in Word and copy-paste. Better spell- and grammar-checking in that program, too. It's just too infuriating to see all your thoughts disappear as the result of touching the wrong key. Godfrey Daniel (channeling my Floridian dad)!
Virginia Witmer’s comment suggests a fundamental (existential?) fact. Let me start with a quiz: I was born on VJ Day; during my lifetime, by what percentage has the human population of the planet grown?** Before retiring, I taught mathematics at the high school level. We included simple population models in the curriculum, including the concept of carrying capacity of any ecosystem. When a population reaches the limit of the carrying capacity of its ecosystem, nature takes over. My personal belief is that the human population is beyond the carrying capacity of the planet; nature is taking over. VW suggests this when she observes that children can’t thrive in this situation. Desperate people do what they feel they need to do to survive: migrate where things seem better, have fewer children. I’ll be interested in responses to what seems a pretty bleak outlook.
I have the same feeling about where we are headed. We have no children partly because we could see this coming. We are way beyond carrying capacity. I do have children in the family who are my greats and great greats. Three of my great greats started school this week and they looked so excited. I hate to think how things might end up for them. Then I have an ex-student who seems to think older people should die. I have to remind her from time to time that we and her mother are in our 80s. She and her husband have to the money to live where they want, but she realizes that there is no place safe from climate change. We do what we can: shop locally as much as possible, grow a garden, have solar panels and a Prius Prime. A friend of mine was just here for a visit this aft (we were toasting the latest indictment) and she noted that people seem confused. Our neighbor says that people know something is wrong, but they don't know what it is. So we get the conners who use this fear and paranoia to wreck havoc.
Thank you. It’s a bitter truth unless we take it as a challenge and kill the Hastert rule, revamp SCOTUS, and take a good hard look at the future we would like to see vs the one we’re hurtling toward. My question is always whether we can achieve two billion by peaceful thoughtful means instead of by wars and starvation. As humans, what are we capable of?
Again thank you for your comment and meeting the moment head on.
These things are so 'easy to miss' that their effect on voters will be minimal. Republicans will continue to criticize or at best, ignore them. I hope that this 'Letters from an American' gets picked up by those who occasionally reproduce HCR's commentary in major newspapers.
🗣️THANK YOU JACK LIPPMAN...whose listening that can put that into work?
Heather, is this something you want too? Beneficial to you?
I share Heathers with 4 others . Roller-shaker people, it’s local people yet, I’ve tried sending Letters to our local paper ..controversy sparks readership theory ...and am probably laughed at ..here in deep red/used forever /near the top in poverty/ addiction stats/smoking complications/and welfare recipients. Why do I bother?
Because I care. I DO see beyond what politicians running this state profess- although their drive could have something to do with the near tops in federal money sent ‘to help out’, or the desperation of poor willing to buy into their promising lies . I know some who could make the leadership stand out , PUSKIN...he is awesome , progressive and I’ve encouraged him for years to take the helm. There’s a few more too. There’s a number of upandcoming Maxwell Frost is another and in FLORIDA! Bless their hearts! I know you, my incredible articulate and dynamics plus new family HERE , name them that are in your state , make their names known. It isn’t front page news but it’s future leaders ..no time like the present to get their names out there.
Might I add (sorry , suspect I’m ranting...beware of the Dean P.(MN) /Manchin(WV / Kennedy...to mention a few😬 and those touting thanks for Bidenonics they VOTED against - Jen Psaki did a marvelous expose of those fence sitting /two faced users....THANKS JEN🫶)
And YES, get these Substack writers guest spots in the few newspapers left ...regularly !These writers are doing a ‘helluva’ job on talk shows , zooms, and Podcasts. Carry on, carry on to the widening stage , stage of awareness possible ‘still yet’. We. Can. Do. It!
Thanks again Jack , oh did I come across as shouting?..😳🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣
💙💙VOTE THE COMPLICIT OUT💙💙
💙💙TAKE IT ACROSS THE FINISH LINE 2024 and onward..💙💙
It's difficult not to be focused on the latest indictment, since that apparently is all the mainstream media is interested in. Again, they're giving free air time to Trump, and if they keep it up without giving time to those who would tout President Biden's many accomplishments, or without confronting or refuting the lies told by those on the radical right, then history may repeat itself with a Trump victory (which should be unimaginable, but is actually possible). That would spell the end of our nation's democracy, so we must do whatever we possibly can to get out the blue vote and to support the people and organizations working toward that goal.
Thank you for this extremely readable breakdown of the tremendous work Biden and the administration is doing on multiple —myriad!— fronts. Is there any politician in the US who had/has the knowledge and skill to have done this, especially in the face of the chaos their predecessor had left the country in?
YES! Which is one of the reasons I keep explaining to folks who rant against Biden being elected to a second term because he's "too old." NO President gets it all done on his/her own. Choosing knowledgeable people who both inform and support you, and knowing how to both direct and appease are skills valuable beyond measure. Should Biden suffer any health issues he has his bases covered.
Unlike, my dogness, the dozens of grifters and scoundrels used by and who used the mango mussolini. Worst, in the sense both of policy ideas and recommendations to the idiot infesting our White House, and in the sense of ethics and morality.
Amen on that, remember that famous expression "surround yourself with talented/good peple"? That's how successful administrations work, teamwork and policy coherence.
Yep. I feel Shakespeare calling again. In fact, the whole of Polonius' advice to his son should be memorised at an early age: "“Those friends thou hast, and their adoption tried, Grapple them to thy soul with hoops of steel; But do not dull thy palm with entertainment Of each new-hatch'd, unfledg'd comrade.”
That's right - poor man never hurt a fly, loving father, obedient courtier, just trying to be helpful and he got stabbed through the arras! "I took thee for thy better", says Hamlet, on investigation. "I'll lug the guts into the neighbor room. Good night, Mother." Great play.
Let them stand up Alexandra, let them speak the truths self evident , let them come out from hiding their own potential to stand with us...when the blue takes back the helm, drives out the radicals, and locks the helm for full steam ahead success . ..WE will timely step into the new challenge ahead. Lots of work to be done yet.
I believe the Biden Administration, more so than most of its predecessors, fully appreciates that we can only protect ourselves through and with others. Not their terms and not America’s terms but on common terms, the community of peoples, the community of nations. And those terms have to be negotiated.
You're comment brought to mind the remarkable vision of Rabbi Michael Lerner, publisher of Tikkun, who stated, "The future of Israelis lies in the safety of the Palestinians, and the future of Palestinians lies in the safety of Israelis."
Frederick, As a fellow admirer of Lerner, I greatly appreciate your comment. While I believe Biden, to some degree, recognizes the import of this mutuality, regrettably, it is not adequately reflected in U.S. Middle Eastern policy.
Thank you, Barbara Jo. I'm happy to find another member of this 'tribe.'
Our wise elder, Pres. Biden, sees the mutuality, AND the realpolitik of the growing resistance in Israel may indeed embellish this potential, pragmatic symbiosis of Palestinian - Israeli cooperation. My knowledge of this conundrum is quite pedestrian, but my intuition tells me that the strongman in Israel is following the similar path of Bolsonaro, Trump, Berlusconi. So, as fas as what I can do, I can periodically remind my Senators and Congressperson of this perspective of mutuality in Israel. As well as financially help Rabbi Lerner.
And sadly the Israelis have Bibi who panders to the most reactionary Israelis. For some insight into this mess via the British, I recommend a history of the British Empire called Legacy of Violence. As I read it, I thought about all the problems we see still.
If only the egregious crimes of the ultra Orthodox would abide by Rabbi Lerner’s (no relation) words. Bibi has intensified everything in the West Bank. He is Israel’s Trump.
Did you see the picture of the extreme right-wing candidate in Argentina? curly black hair, glowing red eyes, mouth wide open in a gorilla-like display of the whole of his lower teeth. Admires Trump.
So much very important work is being carried out around the world by this administration and yet the media fills it's collective space with repetitive chatter about trump. Reporting where he is, what he's doing, what he's saying, even video! Refreshing to read that there are coalitions forming to strengthen democracy and weaken dictatorships. Very sad that a vast number of our media outlets couldn't care less about protecting their viewers by informing them of the work that is being done on their behalf by this administration. Information needed to make decisions in our next elections coming in a little over a year. Thank you Heather for your thorough reporting of our foreign policy.
We CAN and further NEED TO get out the success of this current administration.
Thanks Kate.
It needs to become our front and center goals. I’m amazed with the youth vote coming strongly into recognition as they say ENOUGH! and take the BLUE ACROSS , THROUGH, and to the finish line. We need to shout louder, say more often, and underscore the incredible accomplishments of this BIDEN Presidency and his incredible leadership staff.
🗣️ALL ABOARD! for 2024
BIDEN-HARRIS Train 2020-2028 ...see the headlines ? ‘BEST THERE EVER WAS’
Thank you. Very informative. Hard to keep up with everything going on in the Middle East & Africa, with all the chaos we have here at home. I’m aware that in many ways, none of it is separate from the other. Everything is so interconnected & interdependent now. It’s the old “butterfly flapping it’s wings” story. Just so grateful we have you to keep us informed of the relevant information.
Before I was a Foreign Service Officer in Africa—Congo 1960-1966, I had made a documentary in the Anglo-Egyptian Sudan in 1954. (The rebellion in southern Sudan broke out in February 1955.)
I have subsequently followed Sudan from its early democratic independence to the sharp split between northern and southern Sudan. Recently independent South Sudan has been in disarray ever since.
In the north, military government, now challenged by a destructive rebel force, has shattered the country and uprooted millions of Sudanese. I do not envisage foreign diplomacy bringing stability in either of the Sudans in the foreseeable future.
Niger has recently experienced a military coup. I consider it highly unlikely that an African ‘military force’ can reverse this. French troops have been obliged to depart and 1,000 American troops (and three drone facilities, soon may do likewise.
These Sub Saharan countries are poor and have never been particularly stable since their independence over 70 years ago. Most are under military rule. Russia’s Wagner Group is significant in at least three of these. Alas, I do not envisage stability, much less democracy or economic improvement, in these Sahel countries in the foreseeable future.
Jeri You are speaking of the Moscow pee pee duo, Putin and Prigozhin. Who knows? Prigozhin marched his Wagner Group close to Moscow, backed down, was accused of being traitorous, his Wagner Group was instructed to sign up with the Russian Army by July 1st, then Prigozhin seemed to be flying about, including a multi hour meeting with Putin.
It is totally unclear what Prigozhin’s situation is now. Initially it seemed that his future might be brief and deadly. Putin may need him, at least short term, to manage the Wagner Group, at least in some African states.
Putin does not take betrayal lightly. US intelligence should have clearer insight from tracking the Wagner Group. Meanwhile we’ll be watching No 1 and No 2–I am reminded of the St. John septic tank company whose slogan was “We’re #1 in #2”
So, Robert Reich had a plausble response IMO. Putin was/is losing control over his war and his generals (one has since "Disappeared.") Prigozhin is his bosom buddy, no doubt because he is ruthless. The "coup" was a mockery, designed to rattle the order of command, followed by PR attmepts on the part of Putin with the appearance he is victorious over the coup. Prigozhin is rumored to be in Africa, stirring up trouble for the Motherland. P&P are still buddies. Just look at the vicious turn of the war in Ukraine! Those two P-guys are infinitely worse than Trump, even. May they fail.
Hope I recall the speculation when Khrushchev ‘disappeared’ in 1964. I was working late at the State Department. One of the cleaning crew stated “They done him in.” In fact he lived and I later met his son, who was teaching at Brown U.
Prigozhin may be anywhere. Has anyone seen him alive these days? Could be be on the Russian Lunar probe? I suspect that, for the moment, he is useful to Putin in dealing with the Wagner Group in Africa. Where anything is developing with the WG in Belorussia is anyone’s guess.
Still, I wouldn’t want to be holding life insurance on Prigozhin.
Hope It helped to have ‘boots on the ground’ early. Researching NASSER’S NEW EGYPT: A CRITICAL ANALYSIS. (1960, NY, LONDON) written when I was 25, was baptism under fire. [Banned by Nasser, lead review in The Economist.]
1960-1966 as Foreign Service Officer in Congo was another ‘boots on ground’ experience. I was intimately involved in decisions affecting the lives of thousands of foreign hostages (and, on several occasions,) my own. Being a MIT Sloan Fellow helped in my finance and management consulting careers, being a history/economics professor 1992-2013 permitted me to study, teach, and to reflect on ‘stuff and patterns.
Sadly I see what is happening in our country and the world and personally can’t do much more than post comments, as I worry about the world that my grandchildren will inherit.
Wagner’s fingers are working a portion of Africa to keep them enfeebled. And trying to widen their reach. I wonder how much is a direct result of Putin’s direction, verses Wagner Private Military Company leader, Prigozhin’s spoils for past “jobs-well-done” for Putin (like the 2016 US Election, Brexit, etc)
That’s sad, but no surprise and why we MUST continue to support Ukraine, hoping a win of that war will reduce Putin’s stature in Russia. Of course the disarray there is not to be imagined.
“Several Republicans have opposed that [Iranian] deal. The senior Republican on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, James E. Risch of Idaho, said that the ‘unfreezing’ of funds ‘incentivizes hostage taking & provides a windfall for regime aggression,’ and Senator Tom Cotton (R-AR) called the money ‘ransom’ and said it was a ‘craven act of appeasement’.”
One wonders if the esteemed senators had any comforting words for the families of the released prisoners.
I've never felt happy with NATO, particularly after the fall of the Soviet Union, when it seemed without an excuse for its existence. It went on a search for enemies, and arguably succeeded in turning the new Russia from a potential friend to what it is now. But a few years ago, I realized that NATO had one very important accomplishment to its credit: for three-fourths of a century, Germany and France have not gone to war with each other. That is something!
Using a common cause to bring ancient enemies together is an excellent move. I'm delighted to see Japan and South Korea, two of our most important East Asian friends, moving in that direction. And to see the U.S. playing a positive role in that meeting.
I don't think NATO IS responsible for the direction Russia has taken since 1991. The imperial mindset, especially as it is embodied by one Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin has always been strong in Russia.
Sure, NATO provided a protective umbrella, but this was very much a movement on the part of two peoples (at least in West Germany) and of true statesmen like Konrad Adenauer, Willi Brandt and Charles de Gaulle.
No need for fairy godmothers or the version of history that attributes every positive achievement to America or its alliances.
Also, as countries become more affluent they have increasing incentives not to war directly with neighbors. They may engage in surrogate wars, but be less likely to upset the status quo nearby.
Clifford, While I don’t hold NATO exclusively responsible for the current-Russia’s adversarial stance towards the West, I deeply appreciated your “common cause” observation.
Your last paragraph would have been my comment with the addition that we all should read about the horrors perpetrated by the Japanese on the Koreans. This is a HUGE moment in their shared histories. Kudos (again) to Team Biden/Blinken!
As to NATO. I can only fault it for being so weak prior to the invasion and the genocide of Ukraine. Europe was never a threat to Russia in our lifetimes. NATOs weakness invited Putin to act. Trump invited Putin to act. Obama's reaction to Crimea invited Putin to act.
Putin has the same DNA as Stalin and Czar Nicholas. Horrible humans with zero concern for the welfare of their own citizens, let alone those of their neighbors. With the collapse of the Soviet Union, Europe lulled itself into a lazy coma. Putin saw that as an opportunity. He wants to be Alexander the Great. But he will be remembered as Putin the Putz.
you forget the main purpose of NATO was defense and a deterrent. That was its purpose and that worked to help keep the peace. The conflicts following the fall of the USSR were in the former USSR. Yes, I agree that the lack of a focused adversary allowed a weakening of NATO, but they did step up following 9/11, but the quiet at first, then not so quiet move to rebuild the USSR by Putin has allowed for a rebuild with U.S. leadership. Not so sure that would have happened without the new administration as it was obvious what the previous admin was doing to NATO.
I think we are on the same page here. I know what NATO's purpose was and is. Some say that it was a threat to Russia. But as you point out, it was a defensive alliance.
Would Russia have invaded Ukraine if it were a member of NATO? Would it have happened if Obama had been tougher about Crimea? Would Putin have invaded if Hillary had previously been President and had established a continuous American resolve? Haven't we been naive about Putin going back to "W" and his silly comments?
All just retrospective speculation. I am so glad we have Biden and Blinken on the job now.
There are many reasons that Germany had not recently invaded France. One was its forced demilitarization after WWII, which freed up its budget to create the conditions for extraordinary prosperity while leaving it without military resources for wars of aggression. Another is the EU and its predecessors.
I admit that opportunities were lost (not the whole story but I remember Arse Tom Delay throwing up roadblocks to efforts to engage with Russia in the 90’s; too bad he’s been replaced by worse because his evil should not be forgotten). However, I don’t think we can be blamed for the rise of the evil Putin in that country. Money ruled there and elsewhere as the world’s oligarchs filled voids that reshaped the world. Along with our military industrial complex. What a combo…
Did I blame the US for Putin's insane invasion? (A: no!). This is posted as a response to my comment about major reasons why Germany has not invaded France since WWII, which somebody attributed to NATO for unexplained reasons. Maybe you meant to put it elsewhere. It's hard to see these overly subtle substack indentations.
I am so pleased to see a post about some of the positive things that are happening in terms of world wide cooperation. Unfortunately, the chaos of United States politics has been taking all our attention; drama is like that.
None of us know for sure how the elections will turn out, and what will happen as the Trump cases make their way to the very conservative Supreme Court. However, I keep thinking of Bob Dylan’s song “The Times they are a changin.”
Indeed, times are changing. National borders mean less and less as the ravages of climate change know no artificial borders and the waves of refugees from climate change, and political turmoil will be going wherever there is safety, food and water no matter what walls or barriers are put up.
We are one humanity. However, we are besieged by powerful interests who have only short term greed as their motivator and I do believe they are doing unfortunately effective work at eroding our democratic institutions. They are getting us extremely close to the tipping point where democracy,as originally envisioned, will no longer be viable.
Does anyone have Plan B in case capitalism fails? There are some who are predicting that soon capitalism will “Blow up like a firecracker.“ Do we have an alternative? Is this an opportunity to plan now for a new system of governance that can work locally nationally and internationally?
The Progressive Utilization Theory or Prout has garnered much attention, particularly from those so such as Noam Chomsky. These new systems which include a new concept “economic, democracy“ should be given careful attention. Now is the time to plan for the future, and sometimes soon capitalism will no longer be our future.
Let’s work together to create a new future for ourselves, and the rest of the planet, before the planet reaches its tipping point.
You might check out www.proutalliance.org for more information on transformative alternatives for our future.
Thanks Steve. I'm now totally onto the Democracy Collaborative, which seems to be a grass roots, community approach to the Bidenomics plan of utilizing fed funds to build out a better economy. But I feel the Dem Coll offers a decentralized plan to control local development (Bidenomics).
In Maine, our progressive governor has developed a Maine Climate Council of some 200 (+/-) residents from all sectors to build out a sustainable economy, beginning with tremendous support of the burgeoning renewable, EV, green tech sectors, from the local perspective. So, rural communities will strengthen organic farming and long-range forestry economies, while small towns and hamlets focus on local electric generation. All the while, a statewide referendum this autumn allows residents the choice to BUY OUT our incompetent, statewide utility infrastructure (principally Spanish owned!), and replace these two companies with a citizen owned and run management firm. Citizens would then control the energy grid with an eye toward sustainability, NOT investor profits. Research: Pine Tree Amendment
Thanks for posting this. Next System is a project of the Democracy Collaborative. Their work is a comprehensive, integrative, re working of our socio economic modus operandi. I encourage readers of this blog and Robert Reich , and those who hope for a more peaceful, prosperous and ecologically healthy world to check them out.
Ceres is another effort, working within the business management community to improve things.
Yes, that predatory capitalism what's eating the planet. It's nihilistic ethic is ultimately cannibalistic. Yet the power of capital itself is enormous. Training that 800 pound gorilla to stop wrecking the house and defecating in it's food dish is essential. www.ceres.org is trying.
Robert Adam Smith, in his marvelous description of capitalism and the value of specialization warned that, whenever businessmen gather, they sought to engage in skullduggery.
That’s been the problem ever since. In America’s economic cycles, over the past 150 years the greatest economic disparity was probably in the period around 1900 and today. The least disparity was when unions and manufacturing were strong in the 1950s/1960s.
Actually economic disparity is greater in a number of African countries. We should have higher taxes on the very wealthy and a number of corporations. So far Republicans and lobbyists have blocked this. I hope, after the 2024 elections, that there will be a somewhat better leveling of disparate income, though I’m not holding my breathe.
Astra Taylor, identified as an organizer, film maker and author, has a great essay in the NYTimes today, "Our Economy Thrives on Bad Feelings." I recommend it with enthusiasm.
I didn't know about Prout. They seem on the same track as The Democracy Collaborative and Next System. Do they collaborate with each other? Or with Ceres? And what other like-minded outfits? This is encouraging, if separate efforts can function like a train instead of like bumper cars some good may come of things yet.
My concern is that we are headed to a situation that is not just Trump vs. Biden but greed vs the rest of us. It is not just politics but accelerating wealth inequality. So a new system based on “Economic Democracy” would come first and a better system of governance could follow.
Thank you Heather for choosing to share concrete achievements negotiated by some of our greatest leaders EVER...... who love freedom and show respect to leaders of other countries, accomplishing what seems to be impossible!!! I am so grateful for leaders who choose to represent the ideal of democracy....I am so proud of the men and women who work to negotiate to free hostages who have been detained for political reasons.....families have suffered the most....missing out on years with their loved ones.
With all of the horrors and selfishness in this world....there is some decency ..... there is some goodness....even if it is self-serving. Thank you again ,Heather. I appreciate your letters and the wisdom shared in YOUR space.
I am keeping Zelensky in my prayers......what a brave, freedom-loving man. It is a David vs Goliath situation. May freedom win!!!!!
It is now a time of prayer, especially in our own country with Hawaii dealing with such emence tragedy. It's heartbreaking to see the images & hear their stories...
Check out: Hawaiian Relief Candle @Door County Candle Making/Fish Creek WI. 100% of profits go to relief efforts in our 49th/50th state WHO need our help. Check it out
#nottrump works for me. There are plenty of adjectives to describe Biden's accomplishments. Positive, forward, peaceful, sensible, needed, compassionate, decisive, inclusive, fair, egalitarian, ecological, humanitarian.....
Biden is essentially “Making America Great Again”. So why don’t we totally F*** with the gop and make Blue MAGA hats and start wearing them at Biden rallies?
Thank you, Dr. Richardson, for reminding us how fortunate we are to once again have a sane and sensible administration. No wonder our economy is improving, we have reliable honorable and decent leadership. Thank you also for explaining the continuing conflict in Africa, The European nations of 3 to 4 hundred years ago certainly messed things up in Africa; forcing opposing tribes to form new nations and wantonly killing any who defied them. Is it any wonder they are still fighting today.
Biden's done a remarkable job of united an alliance to fight Russia, but the biggest laggard is the Roman Catholic Church and its Pope. I wrote yesterday "On the morning of June 2, 1979 church bells pealed across Poland as Pope John Paul II stepped from his plane onto the soil of his native country then knelt to kiss its ground. His dramatic gesture of devotion and his crusade against human rights abuses helped demolish the Soviet Union. Polish insurgents were allowed to meet, organize, and pass messages in Catholic churches as their Pope spoke out eloquently against Soviet wrongdoing everywhere. In 2003, he was nominated for the Nobel Prize and declined out of humility. In 2014, he was canonized. By contrast, the current incumbent, Pope Francis, has never directly condemned Vladimir Putin or Russia by name in the 18 months since their horrific war began against the Ukrainian people. Worse, the Pope’s first quoted reaction echoed Kremlin talking points when he suggested that the war was a consequence of “NATO barging at Russia’s gate” and the “international arms industry”. This Pope’s failure to publicly condemn Putin and Russia, and his moral equivocation when pressed, is unforgivable and reminiscent of the Papacy’s tacit acceptance of Hitler and his Second World War."
I disagree with your unfounded denunciation of Pope Francis. Stating objective facts respecting NATO's improper expansion, post Soviet Union does not equate to tacit acceptance of WWII. As horrific as Putin's ingoing war crime in Ukraine is, the analogy to WWII is wholly misplaced
As always, thank you Heather. Your insights are on the spot and the historical context clarifies the issues. Your reXs are very interesting and enlightening too.
I also follow Heather on what used to be Twitter. She would retweet lots of great stuff. Now that it is X, I guess it's reX. I follow several folks, but I otherwise leave it alone.
Heather always makes my day. Joyce Vance is right up there too.
Thanks! I should have known. I used to occasionally catch up with my Twitter account, but once E.M. invaded and changed everything, I am not able to fathom what is happening on X. (Stupidly, I closed Twitter and then tried to re-subscribe.) And since I haven't done anything about that, I guess I don't care. Yes, Heather almost always makes my day, and I see Joyce Vance very frequently on MSNBC, but don't follow on social media or Substack. She's a fantastic force!
I think I subscribed briefly to Joyce a while ago, and then unsubscribed because of too many other readable "demands" on my plate! However, I agree that she does have a great sense of humor! And I am noticing that Substack has grown greatly in stature. (I'm also aware of some of it being total claptrap.) I just subscribed to Joyce Vance.
I don't want to bug you but Joyce just posted her "Five Questions", that are just for paid subscibers. She had Robbie Kaplan on. This one is not to miss. She represented E. Jean Carrol and knocked down the Defense of Marriage Act. Amazing person.
She is worth it. There is a lot of claptrap everywhere these days. Lots of noise and no thought. Some problematicly intelligent, like Matt Liebermann who is deep into crypto.
So refreshing to see the president of the US doing actual politics, after the seemingly endless years of Trump just screaming, bullying and continuously masturbating in front of cameras but amounting to nothing… Even if it isn’t all perfect, Biden is still doing a damn good job.
War for which there is any reasonable necessity is rarely if ever a "cakewalk", and how many innocent lives are destroyed? Great to see diplomacy at work as an alternative to violence; competent emotional adults given adult responsibilities once again.
With so much news focused on tfg and his indictments and all the natural disasters from climate change, it's hard to even be aware of international news. Thankfully Joe Biden and Anthony Blinken are in charge of it and HCR keeps us informed.
i was thinking the same. i was wondering how to get more international news instead of tfg and the violent threats in this country. while important, i am so grateful to hear of blinken’s diplomatic efforts.
Correct Fran, this sort of news gets little ink, receives little attention, altho much of this under the “news cycle” radar sort of information is important
Just somehow get that across to a sufficient number of American voters. I do believe there was a recent poll which suggested 1/4 of Republicans would vote against Trump, about 50% of independents, a growing and restive group i suspect, and of course a large majority of Democrats, per Claire McMaskill last night. "no path for Donald Trump" was her surmise. Hope she's got her finger on a real pulse.
President Joe Biden seems to have learnt from the past foreign policies of Presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama. Invasion of Afghanistan more than 20 years ago led to a long-standing war that didn't achieve its encapsulated goals. Instead, the US army overstayed and its lack of end-game made the war strategy blunt. Similarly, Obama in Libya was not cautious enough to calculate and anticipate the consequences of its direct military involvement. The results were disastrous, with the country failing to restore itself to democracy. Since the killing of Muhammar Gaddafi, Libya has become an all-time embroiled in turmoil that has exceedingly dilapidated the economic, political and judicial structures, and abuse of human rights.
However, US foreign policy is being tested in Niger. Niger coup is an interesting event that abruptly happened and surprised African countries given that the first leader was democratically elected in 2011. However, West African leaders through the ECOWAS do not want the junta coup leaders to continue leading the country as they believe that the embattled President Bazoum should be reinstated. However, though the coup leader cited insecurity as well as economic woes, these are scapegoat excuses considering that Niger was still healing from the statelessness and lawlessness upto 2011. Of course, we can't ignore competing political domestic interests and thus we cannot rule out an extended hand from the opposition who might benefit from the violence. However, we might not know whether the Wagner Group had an hand in it, but for now, they want to benefit from the already carried out coup to position itself as a champion of the anti-French government and obviously counter the political power of the US in Africa. So, it is true, the Wagner is spreading propaganda as evident in crowds holding Russian flags. But, again, this is an organized coup done by money-oiled states and junta groups, so Wagner might have had an interest. The target of the Wagner is uranium that the country mines, as that has been the case, but they masquerade as security providers. The jihadist group has been posing insecurity in Niger and coupled with failure of the French government to stop it, but Abdouramane Oumarou, Umoja Party, and MPD party are taking advantage of this insecurity by being pro-Russia and getting funds from Russia.
I welcome you to subscribe to my newsletter so to enable me to cover African stories that you need to know. It is just free to be my subscriber. For others who have been asking me, I haven't activated payments because I need you for free, but the link for donations only is on my top page.
Biden has exceeded my wildest hopes and expectations. His next move should be to step aside now and let younger, progressive Democrats vie for the POTUS nomination.
I shudder to think what chaos there would be here and around the world had Trump managed to pull off his coup d'etat. Everyone here needs to be involved in local and national politics at least through next year's elections.
I don't think Biden should step aside now. I think it would be disastrous.
I do look forward to younger progressive Democrats in 2028, but I see no one currently able to get the support and the votes needed to be sure NO Republican wins in 2024.
Joe is in good health and has racked up a great record. He is also good at pointing out the tremendous value in supporting and reinvigorated American democracy. And, his foreign relations savvy is extremely helpful in the world right now.
I don't think Biden should step aside yet. He's shown that he's still got it, and I believe he can get re-elected next year. We have a lot of good Democratic up-and-comers, but I don't think they are quite ready to step in.
No other American has Biden’s experience and record. Even John Kerry, who should have won in 2004 and is now busy with climate change negotiations, cannot take his place. America has so many ill “senior citizens,” there is such an epidemic of ageism, that many of all ages do not realize that a long, healthy, busy life is possible. At 89, I know that it is. We are very fortunate to have a president with a fine group of advisors.
"America has so many ill “senior citizens,” there is such an epidemic of ageism, that many of all ages do not realize that a long, healthy, busy life is possible."
Thanks.
Thank you! Now how do we get benches in parks again? And maybe a few on sidewalks. Are we so afraid of having places that homeless people can sleep?
I agree. I'm 73, and while my body may not be the spry thing it once was, my brain is still pretty good. Slow, but good. :D
There are some older folks whose shelf life has definitely passed, but there are many of us that are still functional and pretty dang wise.
Right you are. And those of us who are still going have a responsibility to the young ones who can profit from our experience (the young ones over 60 included.)
God save the Queen, man!!
In the abstract, I agree. In the real world, Biden stepping aside would create too much uncertainty when we need a steady, guiding hand.
What Democrat stands a better chance of winning the White House other than Biden? None. I wish this wasn't the case because of his age. But in this divided nation, a more progressive candidate would likely cost Democrats votes, especially among independents.
This is no time to gamble and possibly open the door to Trump or any other fascist in a Republican disguise.
Tom Nichols of The Atlantic examines the issue in "Why Republicans Would Welcome a Biden Challenger." https://www.theatlantic.com/newsletters/archive/2023/08/biden-2024-election-democratic-primary-trump/675042/?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=atlantic-daily-newsletter&utm_content=20230817&utm_term=The+Atlantic+Daily
For whom? Really, seriously, for whom? Who would Democrats, independents and sane republicans vote for to take the Presidency? Because that is what is needed, and I just don't think the Vice President is that candidate. As I see it, one of the most important things Biden and Harris and all Democrats have to do during Biden's next term is to get some younger, intelligent, progressively moderate people either into politics for the first time or improve their standing if they are already involved, so there WILL be someone who will win by as large a margin as possible in 2028, both the presidency and any House and Senate seats and state governorships. There is so much work still to do to recover from the damage done by Reagan and afterward, and we cannot afford any more setbacks.
I agree with Cheryl and Karen: Joe Biden is just fine and we have to get through 2024. 2028 will be the year for the up-and-coming Dems.
Richard, who are these younger, deeply knowledgeable, experienced leaders who can reach most of the American people inspiring us to work together and know how important that is to all of us. I believe there are several of them who need to come forward.
Have you read 'American democracy is cracking. These forces help explain why'? It is in today's Washington Post. I recommend it.
'Many Americans believe the political system is broken. A Post analysis examined the forces fueling the sense that government fails to represent the people.'
By Dan Balz and Clara Ence Morse. A link to article is below. Sorry that I could not gift it.
https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/2023/08/18/american-democracy-political-system-failures/
Our Loudoun County Democratic Committee just today published a 'We did this' newsletter, listing the party's many local, state and national achievements. I forwarded it broadly. What a powerhouse of information for election advocacy and to just plain counteract the dearth of media coverage.
FABULOUS idea!!!
Though the imagery is ghastly, it describes well the resulting product of narcissist Trump's flapping jaws, anytime he engages them.
For the sake of our democracy, and democracy's ideal the world over, let's push and pray that our electorate snaps to in order to overcome the new Confederacy's attempts to suppress our right to vote; that we exercise that right in massive, record breaking numbers and that we finally end contemporary Republicans' Reign of Error!
Amen, brother!
I do however note that the defense attorneys' latest maneuverings in LitigationWorld consist of a motion to move the January 6 trial forward to APRIL 2026. And the defendant has decided, possibly, not to appear at the republican presidential debate hosted by False News.
And honestly, my first thought when I saw April 2026 was that 1993 Bob Mankoff cartoon from the New Yorker, "No, Thursday's no good. How about never - is never good for you?" https://tinyurl.com/yc5sjjfx (another ridiculously long URL, this time, NPR; I promise it's real.) It never gets old.
That touched a nerve, Lynn. Back in '93 a good friend had started backing away from my calls and attempts to get together, and then appeared the Mankoff cartoon, which said it all. The friendship did end, until decades later I heard she was in hospice, and I called her, and we made amends, and soon afterwards she passed away.
I'm sorry to have touched that nerve, Mim. It's hard when friends "ghost" you - ask me how I know. But glad to learn that you got back together before it was too late.
Thanks, Lynn. Sorry you know the feeling.
It really is refreshing. More than that, it offers a modicum of hope. It feels as if we're living through one of the difficult times we've ever faced. There is a global undercurrent of fear that could spark into conflict at any time. I can't begin to imagine what it would be like Agent Orange, DT, were in charge. Can't remember a time he ever demonstrated any awareness of diplomacy. He grew up in a small right wing town in S. California.. His father was a John Bircher. One of the more extremist right wing groups during that period. Agent Orange is a 'chip' off the old block. I just stumbled across this Bob Dylan song about the John Birchers... https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U5Xn9YOKPcQ
"Agent Orange"... That's hilarious. It's a new one for me, I'll remember it. And thanks for the info on the John Birch Society! That puts some puzzle pieces in their places...
I do love the way you worded this reply!
Dutch Mike,
I've shared a contrary view on this post:
https://heathercoxrichardson.substack.com/p/august-17-2023-thursday/comment/36712420
Thanks for focusing on Biden admin's foreign policy progress. It's easy to miss those things when focused on latest indictment.
I read this newsletter to learn about other things besides the activities of the orange putrescence. He is NOT the only thing happening in the world, even though he is a serious threat.
I espeically appreciate that Heather continues to draw attention to foreign policy in Africa, but we need to be reminded that many of these issues are global, with the same themes appearing in Latin America and South and Central Asia. The less developed world will be the main source of markets for the US and sources of strategically critical natural resources like battery metals. Promoting democracy-based stable governments will be key to combating climate change, world hunger and mass migration and providing economic opportunity worldwide but especially in the developed nations which are seeing aging populations and slow population growth.
This is so in line of my opinion too. Though barely understanding what goes on there -in all things considered- it seems a reasonable synopsis that developing countries would provide the ample growth for consumption -ie avoiding the usual aggressive competition tactics deemed necessary. That China and the US would have more than plenty to ‘sell to’ if everyone was prospering.
This continued one-up-man-ship costs not only innocent lives but after restoration expenses...seems like the ‘leaders’ of too many countries want CONTROL regardless the expense which ...has any one of them taken the toll? When in fact shoring up emerging countries all together could vastly shorten the intended goal ...the fastest route to customers...is everyone interested pulling together ...that a no brainer...?
Instead wars are waged internally/externally/near globally ad infinitum and mess after mess ( count them! ) to ‘clean up’ ...🤷♀️🤦♀️😔 so sad.
Seems there’s enough of ‘the big guys’ if they could join hands / get over this endless wanting to be king-of-the-hill game ...ALL would prosper monetarily as well as be equally regarded as winners.
Look at how the world smiled when Biden pulled the coalition of nations back to NATO alliance....and btw is still striving further for...
Am I THE ONLY ONE WHO SEES THIS...or is my rose colored glasses talking ..again?
Is seems there’s a growing number of people in reality understanding the intricate maneuvers to run this country...play the peacekeeper for world unity...gather togetherness coalitions...and also see the slights of hand/mind in disruptive politics/ grandstanding ..done trying to undermine for personal gain.
Imagine an 80+ year old managing all that..huh?
It’s called experience, good behind the scene choices of trusted friends and choices well thought over.
I’m voting for Biden.
Thanks , Joe , you’re doing a helluva job.
💙💙VOTE💙💙
For insights into the history of American foreign policy, I highly recommend “How to Hide an Empire” by Daniel Immerwahr.
The history of American foreign policy is often not pretty and we have ended up with many problem still with us today because of our intrusion into other countries in various ways. However, I feel like what Biden and Blinken are doing is actually good and of course, they have had to repair the damage done by death star.
“Not pretty” is putting it mildly. Iran is a good example. Iran is our enemy because Eisenhower, at the behest of big oil, repaced Iran’s elected president with a dictator. Cuba is a similar story. We should have rejoiced when Castro ousted the brutal dictator, Batista. Biden and Blinken are for sure a big improvement over our past behavior which, to be sure, isn’t all bad. The Marshall plan, a project of Democrats, is a marvelous exception. Probably Dems could get approval from the American electorate for the Marshall plan because the people it helped looked like our dominant class. Regardless, it was a great success.
I am aware of our intrusion into Iran and Cuba and other places where we couldn't accept democratically elected leaders. I am reminded too of the book Lawrence in Arabia about the Middle East during WWI including an American oilman along with the Brits, the French, and the Israelis who did not have a state yet. I agree that the Marshall Plan is a good exception. My husband traveled to England and Sweden looking at unemployment strategies with funds provided by that plan. At one point we were willing to aid and abet brutal leaders as long as they sang the anti-Communist song. And of course, our work for United Fruit in Central America.
Yes, the partition after WWI of the Middle East into sheikdoms by Britain, France, and the US (described by Sir Lawrence in his sprawling book) is another example of catastrophic meddling, although Britain probably bears more of the blame than the US in that case. By contrast, the US carries all the blame for the United Fruit atrocity in Central and South America, another mistake that Eisenhower played a big role in while his henchmen, the nefarious Dulles brothers, were busy screwing up Southeast Asia.
I wrote a long one and lost it. In two words: no population increase. Children born now may starve. Adopt an orphan if you want to raise a child. Look at UN figures from the 1970’s when the total was 2.2 children for existing families.
That's happened to me a couple of times. Now I write my comments in Word and copy-paste. Better spell- and grammar-checking in that program, too. It's just too infuriating to see all your thoughts disappear as the result of touching the wrong key. Godfrey Daniel (channeling my Floridian dad)!
Virginia Witmer’s comment suggests a fundamental (existential?) fact. Let me start with a quiz: I was born on VJ Day; during my lifetime, by what percentage has the human population of the planet grown?** Before retiring, I taught mathematics at the high school level. We included simple population models in the curriculum, including the concept of carrying capacity of any ecosystem. When a population reaches the limit of the carrying capacity of its ecosystem, nature takes over. My personal belief is that the human population is beyond the carrying capacity of the planet; nature is taking over. VW suggests this when she observes that children can’t thrive in this situation. Desperate people do what they feel they need to do to survive: migrate where things seem better, have fewer children. I’ll be interested in responses to what seems a pretty bleak outlook.
**about 300%
I have the same feeling about where we are headed. We have no children partly because we could see this coming. We are way beyond carrying capacity. I do have children in the family who are my greats and great greats. Three of my great greats started school this week and they looked so excited. I hate to think how things might end up for them. Then I have an ex-student who seems to think older people should die. I have to remind her from time to time that we and her mother are in our 80s. She and her husband have to the money to live where they want, but she realizes that there is no place safe from climate change. We do what we can: shop locally as much as possible, grow a garden, have solar panels and a Prius Prime. A friend of mine was just here for a visit this aft (we were toasting the latest indictment) and she noted that people seem confused. Our neighbor says that people know something is wrong, but they don't know what it is. So we get the conners who use this fear and paranoia to wreck havoc.
Thank you. It’s a bitter truth unless we take it as a challenge and kill the Hastert rule, revamp SCOTUS, and take a good hard look at the future we would like to see vs the one we’re hurtling toward. My question is always whether we can achieve two billion by peaceful thoughtful means instead of by wars and starvation. As humans, what are we capable of?
Again thank you for your comment and meeting the moment head on.
These things are so 'easy to miss' that their effect on voters will be minimal. Republicans will continue to criticize or at best, ignore them. I hope that this 'Letters from an American' gets picked up by those who occasionally reproduce HCR's commentary in major newspapers.
🗣️THANK YOU JACK LIPPMAN...whose listening that can put that into work?
Heather, is this something you want too? Beneficial to you?
I share Heathers with 4 others . Roller-shaker people, it’s local people yet, I’ve tried sending Letters to our local paper ..controversy sparks readership theory ...and am probably laughed at ..here in deep red/used forever /near the top in poverty/ addiction stats/smoking complications/and welfare recipients. Why do I bother?
Because I care. I DO see beyond what politicians running this state profess- although their drive could have something to do with the near tops in federal money sent ‘to help out’, or the desperation of poor willing to buy into their promising lies . I know some who could make the leadership stand out , PUSKIN...he is awesome , progressive and I’ve encouraged him for years to take the helm. There’s a few more too. There’s a number of upandcoming Maxwell Frost is another and in FLORIDA! Bless their hearts! I know you, my incredible articulate and dynamics plus new family HERE , name them that are in your state , make their names known. It isn’t front page news but it’s future leaders ..no time like the present to get their names out there.
Might I add (sorry , suspect I’m ranting...beware of the Dean P.(MN) /Manchin(WV / Kennedy...to mention a few😬 and those touting thanks for Bidenonics they VOTED against - Jen Psaki did a marvelous expose of those fence sitting /two faced users....THANKS JEN🫶)
And YES, get these Substack writers guest spots in the few newspapers left ...regularly !These writers are doing a ‘helluva’ job on talk shows , zooms, and Podcasts. Carry on, carry on to the widening stage , stage of awareness possible ‘still yet’. We. Can. Do. It!
Thanks again Jack , oh did I come across as shouting?..😳🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣
💙💙VOTE THE COMPLICIT OUT💙💙
💙💙TAKE IT ACROSS THE FINISH LINE 2024 and onward..💙💙
It's difficult not to be focused on the latest indictment, since that apparently is all the mainstream media is interested in. Again, they're giving free air time to Trump, and if they keep it up without giving time to those who would tout President Biden's many accomplishments, or without confronting or refuting the lies told by those on the radical right, then history may repeat itself with a Trump victory (which should be unimaginable, but is actually possible). That would spell the end of our nation's democracy, so we must do whatever we possibly can to get out the blue vote and to support the people and organizations working toward that goal.
Thank you for this extremely readable breakdown of the tremendous work Biden and the administration is doing on multiple —myriad!— fronts. Is there any politician in the US who had/has the knowledge and skill to have done this, especially in the face of the chaos their predecessor had left the country in?
I don't think so.
He knows how to pick a team.
YES! Which is one of the reasons I keep explaining to folks who rant against Biden being elected to a second term because he's "too old." NO President gets it all done on his/her own. Choosing knowledgeable people who both inform and support you, and knowing how to both direct and appease are skills valuable beyond measure. Should Biden suffer any health issues he has his bases covered.
✅
Unlike, my dogness, the dozens of grifters and scoundrels used by and who used the mango mussolini. Worst, in the sense both of policy ideas and recommendations to the idiot infesting our White House, and in the sense of ethics and morality.
Yes! And how to negotiate with the other side - or failing that, slide unobtrusively around them.
Amen on that, remember that famous expression "surround yourself with talented/good peple"? That's how successful administrations work, teamwork and policy coherence.
Yes, instead of be "loyal to me" no matter how corrupt I am!
Yep. I feel Shakespeare calling again. In fact, the whole of Polonius' advice to his son should be memorised at an early age: "“Those friends thou hast, and their adoption tried, Grapple them to thy soul with hoops of steel; But do not dull thy palm with entertainment Of each new-hatch'd, unfledg'd comrade.”
didnt Hamlet do old Polonius in? spied for the villain of the story, right?
That's right - poor man never hurt a fly, loving father, obedient courtier, just trying to be helpful and he got stabbed through the arras! "I took thee for thy better", says Hamlet, on investigation. "I'll lug the guts into the neighbor room. Good night, Mother." Great play.
needed a smiley for that !
Amen!
Let them stand up Alexandra, let them speak the truths self evident , let them come out from hiding their own potential to stand with us...when the blue takes back the helm, drives out the radicals, and locks the helm for full steam ahead success . ..WE will timely step into the new challenge ahead. Lots of work to be done yet.
Can hardly wait!
Front and center , warriors.
Let’s get to it
💙💙VOTE 💙💙
I believe the Biden Administration, more so than most of its predecessors, fully appreciates that we can only protect ourselves through and with others. Not their terms and not America’s terms but on common terms, the community of peoples, the community of nations. And those terms have to be negotiated.
You're comment brought to mind the remarkable vision of Rabbi Michael Lerner, publisher of Tikkun, who stated, "The future of Israelis lies in the safety of the Palestinians, and the future of Palestinians lies in the safety of Israelis."
Frederick, As a fellow admirer of Lerner, I greatly appreciate your comment. While I believe Biden, to some degree, recognizes the import of this mutuality, regrettably, it is not adequately reflected in U.S. Middle Eastern policy.
Thank you, Barbara Jo. I'm happy to find another member of this 'tribe.'
Our wise elder, Pres. Biden, sees the mutuality, AND the realpolitik of the growing resistance in Israel may indeed embellish this potential, pragmatic symbiosis of Palestinian - Israeli cooperation. My knowledge of this conundrum is quite pedestrian, but my intuition tells me that the strongman in Israel is following the similar path of Bolsonaro, Trump, Berlusconi. So, as fas as what I can do, I can periodically remind my Senators and Congressperson of this perspective of mutuality in Israel. As well as financially help Rabbi Lerner.
Berlusca turned out to be mortal...
🤣 👍
And sadly the Israelis have Bibi who panders to the most reactionary Israelis. For some insight into this mess via the British, I recommend a history of the British Empire called Legacy of Violence. As I read it, I thought about all the problems we see still.
If only the egregious crimes of the ultra Orthodox would abide by Rabbi Lerner’s (no relation) words. Bibi has intensified everything in the West Bank. He is Israel’s Trump.
Did you see the picture of the extreme right-wing candidate in Argentina? curly black hair, glowing red eyes, mouth wide open in a gorilla-like display of the whole of his lower teeth. Admires Trump.
No I didn’t. Ugh ugh UGH
And that's an accurate, even conservative, description.
So much very important work is being carried out around the world by this administration and yet the media fills it's collective space with repetitive chatter about trump. Reporting where he is, what he's doing, what he's saying, even video! Refreshing to read that there are coalitions forming to strengthen democracy and weaken dictatorships. Very sad that a vast number of our media outlets couldn't care less about protecting their viewers by informing them of the work that is being done on their behalf by this administration. Information needed to make decisions in our next elections coming in a little over a year. Thank you Heather for your thorough reporting of our foreign policy.
Why I can’t watch but five minutes of network/cable news
Real policy content like shrivels on short attention spans addicted to drama.
We CAN and further NEED TO get out the success of this current administration.
Thanks Kate.
It needs to become our front and center goals. I’m amazed with the youth vote coming strongly into recognition as they say ENOUGH! and take the BLUE ACROSS , THROUGH, and to the finish line. We need to shout louder, say more often, and underscore the incredible accomplishments of this BIDEN Presidency and his incredible leadership staff.
🗣️ALL ABOARD! for 2024
BIDEN-HARRIS Train 2020-2028 ...see the headlines ? ‘BEST THERE EVER WAS’
💙💙VOTE💙💙
Thank you. Very informative. Hard to keep up with everything going on in the Middle East & Africa, with all the chaos we have here at home. I’m aware that in many ways, none of it is separate from the other. Everything is so interconnected & interdependent now. It’s the old “butterfly flapping it’s wings” story. Just so grateful we have you to keep us informed of the relevant information.
Before I was a Foreign Service Officer in Africa—Congo 1960-1966, I had made a documentary in the Anglo-Egyptian Sudan in 1954. (The rebellion in southern Sudan broke out in February 1955.)
I have subsequently followed Sudan from its early democratic independence to the sharp split between northern and southern Sudan. Recently independent South Sudan has been in disarray ever since.
In the north, military government, now challenged by a destructive rebel force, has shattered the country and uprooted millions of Sudanese. I do not envisage foreign diplomacy bringing stability in either of the Sudans in the foreseeable future.
Niger has recently experienced a military coup. I consider it highly unlikely that an African ‘military force’ can reverse this. French troops have been obliged to depart and 1,000 American troops (and three drone facilities, soon may do likewise.
These Sub Saharan countries are poor and have never been particularly stable since their independence over 70 years ago. Most are under military rule. Russia’s Wagner Group is significant in at least three of these. Alas, I do not envisage stability, much less democracy or economic improvement, in these Sahel countries in the foreseeable future.
What happened to the split between Putin and his chef…
Jeri You are speaking of the Moscow pee pee duo, Putin and Prigozhin. Who knows? Prigozhin marched his Wagner Group close to Moscow, backed down, was accused of being traitorous, his Wagner Group was instructed to sign up with the Russian Army by July 1st, then Prigozhin seemed to be flying about, including a multi hour meeting with Putin.
It is totally unclear what Prigozhin’s situation is now. Initially it seemed that his future might be brief and deadly. Putin may need him, at least short term, to manage the Wagner Group, at least in some African states.
Putin does not take betrayal lightly. US intelligence should have clearer insight from tracking the Wagner Group. Meanwhile we’ll be watching No 1 and No 2–I am reminded of the St. John septic tank company whose slogan was “We’re #1 in #2”
LOL early in the morning. Putin must need him if he is still breathing
So, Robert Reich had a plausble response IMO. Putin was/is losing control over his war and his generals (one has since "Disappeared.") Prigozhin is his bosom buddy, no doubt because he is ruthless. The "coup" was a mockery, designed to rattle the order of command, followed by PR attmepts on the part of Putin with the appearance he is victorious over the coup. Prigozhin is rumored to be in Africa, stirring up trouble for the Motherland. P&P are still buddies. Just look at the vicious turn of the war in Ukraine! Those two P-guys are infinitely worse than Trump, even. May they fail.
Hope I recall the speculation when Khrushchev ‘disappeared’ in 1964. I was working late at the State Department. One of the cleaning crew stated “They done him in.” In fact he lived and I later met his son, who was teaching at Brown U.
Prigozhin may be anywhere. Has anyone seen him alive these days? Could be be on the Russian Lunar probe? I suspect that, for the moment, he is useful to Putin in dealing with the Wagner Group in Africa. Where anything is developing with the WG in Belorussia is anyone’s guess.
Still, I wouldn’t want to be holding life insurance on Prigozhin.
Keith, you've led an exciting life! I love to read of your adventures.
Hope It helped to have ‘boots on the ground’ early. Researching NASSER’S NEW EGYPT: A CRITICAL ANALYSIS. (1960, NY, LONDON) written when I was 25, was baptism under fire. [Banned by Nasser, lead review in The Economist.]
1960-1966 as Foreign Service Officer in Congo was another ‘boots on ground’ experience. I was intimately involved in decisions affecting the lives of thousands of foreign hostages (and, on several occasions,) my own. Being a MIT Sloan Fellow helped in my finance and management consulting careers, being a history/economics professor 1992-2013 permitted me to study, teach, and to reflect on ‘stuff and patterns.
Sadly I see what is happening in our country and the world and personally can’t do much more than post comments, as I worry about the world that my grandchildren will inherit.
Thank you for the personal touch, Keith. Never underestimate the power of "posting."
Thank you for this. I figured that if the rift was for real, chef P would be dead, visibly so. P needs P it seems, and can go either way…
Still looks more like theatre than anything else.
Excellent summary of the problems in Africa. Thank you Keith. I agree completely.
Wagner’s fingers are working a portion of Africa to keep them enfeebled. And trying to widen their reach. I wonder how much is a direct result of Putin’s direction, verses Wagner Private Military Company leader, Prigozhin’s spoils for past “jobs-well-done” for Putin (like the 2016 US Election, Brexit, etc)
ML I didn’t think that gratitude was part of Putin’s egocentric psyche. He particularly despises ‘betrayal’ and has bloody fingers to confirm this.
Thanks for this excellent background information.
That’s sad, but no surprise and why we MUST continue to support Ukraine, hoping a win of that war will reduce Putin’s stature in Russia. Of course the disarray there is not to be imagined.
“Several Republicans have opposed that [Iranian] deal. The senior Republican on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, James E. Risch of Idaho, said that the ‘unfreezing’ of funds ‘incentivizes hostage taking & provides a windfall for regime aggression,’ and Senator Tom Cotton (R-AR) called the money ‘ransom’ and said it was a ‘craven act of appeasement’.”
One wonders if the esteemed senators had any comforting words for the families of the released prisoners.
Unfortunately, it's evident that the cold war mentality lingers - for many Australians this is becoming a serious issue. https://www.counterpunch.org/2023/08/17/assange-be-wary-the-dangers-of-a-us-plea-deal/
I've never felt happy with NATO, particularly after the fall of the Soviet Union, when it seemed without an excuse for its existence. It went on a search for enemies, and arguably succeeded in turning the new Russia from a potential friend to what it is now. But a few years ago, I realized that NATO had one very important accomplishment to its credit: for three-fourths of a century, Germany and France have not gone to war with each other. That is something!
Using a common cause to bring ancient enemies together is an excellent move. I'm delighted to see Japan and South Korea, two of our most important East Asian friends, moving in that direction. And to see the U.S. playing a positive role in that meeting.
I don't think NATO IS responsible for the direction Russia has taken since 1991. The imperial mindset, especially as it is embodied by one Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin has always been strong in Russia.
Agreed.
How is Franco-German amity the work of NATO?
Sure, NATO provided a protective umbrella, but this was very much a movement on the part of two peoples (at least in West Germany) and of true statesmen like Konrad Adenauer, Willi Brandt and Charles de Gaulle.
No need for fairy godmothers or the version of history that attributes every positive achievement to America or its alliances.
Also, as countries become more affluent they have increasing incentives not to war directly with neighbors. They may engage in surrogate wars, but be less likely to upset the status quo nearby.
Clifford, While I don’t hold NATO exclusively responsible for the current-Russia’s adversarial stance towards the West, I deeply appreciated your “common cause” observation.
Your last paragraph would have been my comment with the addition that we all should read about the horrors perpetrated by the Japanese on the Koreans. This is a HUGE moment in their shared histories. Kudos (again) to Team Biden/Blinken!
As to NATO. I can only fault it for being so weak prior to the invasion and the genocide of Ukraine. Europe was never a threat to Russia in our lifetimes. NATOs weakness invited Putin to act. Trump invited Putin to act. Obama's reaction to Crimea invited Putin to act.
Putin has the same DNA as Stalin and Czar Nicholas. Horrible humans with zero concern for the welfare of their own citizens, let alone those of their neighbors. With the collapse of the Soviet Union, Europe lulled itself into a lazy coma. Putin saw that as an opportunity. He wants to be Alexander the Great. But he will be remembered as Putin the Putz.
you forget the main purpose of NATO was defense and a deterrent. That was its purpose and that worked to help keep the peace. The conflicts following the fall of the USSR were in the former USSR. Yes, I agree that the lack of a focused adversary allowed a weakening of NATO, but they did step up following 9/11, but the quiet at first, then not so quiet move to rebuild the USSR by Putin has allowed for a rebuild with U.S. leadership. Not so sure that would have happened without the new administration as it was obvious what the previous admin was doing to NATO.
I think we are on the same page here. I know what NATO's purpose was and is. Some say that it was a threat to Russia. But as you point out, it was a defensive alliance.
Would Russia have invaded Ukraine if it were a member of NATO? Would it have happened if Obama had been tougher about Crimea? Would Putin have invaded if Hillary had previously been President and had established a continuous American resolve? Haven't we been naive about Putin going back to "W" and his silly comments?
All just retrospective speculation. I am so glad we have Biden and Blinken on the job now.
Excellently put. Thank you.
There are many reasons that Germany had not recently invaded France. One was its forced demilitarization after WWII, which freed up its budget to create the conditions for extraordinary prosperity while leaving it without military resources for wars of aggression. Another is the EU and its predecessors.
I admit that opportunities were lost (not the whole story but I remember Arse Tom Delay throwing up roadblocks to efforts to engage with Russia in the 90’s; too bad he’s been replaced by worse because his evil should not be forgotten). However, I don’t think we can be blamed for the rise of the evil Putin in that country. Money ruled there and elsewhere as the world’s oligarchs filled voids that reshaped the world. Along with our military industrial complex. What a combo…
Did I blame the US for Putin's insane invasion? (A: no!). This is posted as a response to my comment about major reasons why Germany has not invaded France since WWII, which somebody attributed to NATO for unexplained reasons. Maybe you meant to put it elsewhere. It's hard to see these overly subtle substack indentations.
Thank you
Delay with his book....if your name was in it, he would see you, if not goodbye.
I would have been on his list of enemies, plenty of Texans hated his self-righteous arse
Germany and France have been friends for a long time, nothing to do with the UN.
I am so pleased to see a post about some of the positive things that are happening in terms of world wide cooperation. Unfortunately, the chaos of United States politics has been taking all our attention; drama is like that.
None of us know for sure how the elections will turn out, and what will happen as the Trump cases make their way to the very conservative Supreme Court. However, I keep thinking of Bob Dylan’s song “The Times they are a changin.”
Indeed, times are changing. National borders mean less and less as the ravages of climate change know no artificial borders and the waves of refugees from climate change, and political turmoil will be going wherever there is safety, food and water no matter what walls or barriers are put up.
We are one humanity. However, we are besieged by powerful interests who have only short term greed as their motivator and I do believe they are doing unfortunately effective work at eroding our democratic institutions. They are getting us extremely close to the tipping point where democracy,as originally envisioned, will no longer be viable.
Does anyone have Plan B in case capitalism fails? There are some who are predicting that soon capitalism will “Blow up like a firecracker.“ Do we have an alternative? Is this an opportunity to plan now for a new system of governance that can work locally nationally and internationally?
The Progressive Utilization Theory or Prout has garnered much attention, particularly from those so such as Noam Chomsky. These new systems which include a new concept “economic, democracy“ should be given careful attention. Now is the time to plan for the future, and sometimes soon capitalism will no longer be our future.
Let’s work together to create a new future for ourselves, and the rest of the planet, before the planet reaches its tipping point.
You might check out www.proutalliance.org for more information on transformative alternatives for our future.
Marc, there are people working on a "Plan B". Here are links to two of those groups,
The Next System Project: https://thenextsystem.org/
The Democracy Collaborative: https://democracycollaborative.org/
Apologies if you're already aware of them.
Thanks Steve. I'm now totally onto the Democracy Collaborative, which seems to be a grass roots, community approach to the Bidenomics plan of utilizing fed funds to build out a better economy. But I feel the Dem Coll offers a decentralized plan to control local development (Bidenomics).
In Maine, our progressive governor has developed a Maine Climate Council of some 200 (+/-) residents from all sectors to build out a sustainable economy, beginning with tremendous support of the burgeoning renewable, EV, green tech sectors, from the local perspective. So, rural communities will strengthen organic farming and long-range forestry economies, while small towns and hamlets focus on local electric generation. All the while, a statewide referendum this autumn allows residents the choice to BUY OUT our incompetent, statewide utility infrastructure (principally Spanish owned!), and replace these two companies with a citizen owned and run management firm. Citizens would then control the energy grid with an eye toward sustainability, NOT investor profits. Research: Pine Tree Amendment
Thanks for posting this. Next System is a project of the Democracy Collaborative. Their work is a comprehensive, integrative, re working of our socio economic modus operandi. I encourage readers of this blog and Robert Reich , and those who hope for a more peaceful, prosperous and ecologically healthy world to check them out.
Ceres is another effort, working within the business management community to improve things.
Duly noted. Meanwhile, private capital gobbles things up like PacMan.
Yes, that predatory capitalism what's eating the planet. It's nihilistic ethic is ultimately cannibalistic. Yet the power of capital itself is enormous. Training that 800 pound gorilla to stop wrecking the house and defecating in it's food dish is essential. www.ceres.org is trying.
Will it work? I dunno...
Robert Adam Smith, in his marvelous description of capitalism and the value of specialization warned that, whenever businessmen gather, they sought to engage in skullduggery.
That’s been the problem ever since. In America’s economic cycles, over the past 150 years the greatest economic disparity was probably in the period around 1900 and today. The least disparity was when unions and manufacturing were strong in the 1950s/1960s.
Actually economic disparity is greater in a number of African countries. We should have higher taxes on the very wealthy and a number of corporations. So far Republicans and lobbyists have blocked this. I hope, after the 2024 elections, that there will be a somewhat better leveling of disparate income, though I’m not holding my breathe.
Astra Taylor, identified as an organizer, film maker and author, has a great essay in the NYTimes today, "Our Economy Thrives on Bad Feelings." I recommend it with enthusiasm.
These are very informative sites. Thank you for sharing them.
I didn't know about Prout. They seem on the same track as The Democracy Collaborative and Next System. Do they collaborate with each other? Or with Ceres? And what other like-minded outfits? This is encouraging, if separate efforts can function like a train instead of like bumper cars some good may come of things yet.
“a new system of governance…”. Would be nice if we could survive the ones trying to destroy the one we have…
My concern is that we are headed to a situation that is not just Trump vs. Biden but greed vs the rest of us. It is not just politics but accelerating wealth inequality. So a new system based on “Economic Democracy” would come first and a better system of governance could follow.
Yes. The essential question is: Can we have both Billionaires/Gagillionaires and Civil Society? Looking at current civil society, I’d say “No”.
I’ll dream with you
Marc Nevas, I've shared a contrary view on this post:
https://heathercoxrichardson.substack.com/p/august-17-2023-thursday/comment/36712420
Marc Nevas -- thank you so much for your comments! (It took me a long time to get here because of the long discussion following a post before yours.)
Thank you Heather for choosing to share concrete achievements negotiated by some of our greatest leaders EVER...... who love freedom and show respect to leaders of other countries, accomplishing what seems to be impossible!!! I am so grateful for leaders who choose to represent the ideal of democracy....I am so proud of the men and women who work to negotiate to free hostages who have been detained for political reasons.....families have suffered the most....missing out on years with their loved ones.
With all of the horrors and selfishness in this world....there is some decency ..... there is some goodness....even if it is self-serving. Thank you again ,Heather. I appreciate your letters and the wisdom shared in YOUR space.
I am keeping Zelensky in my prayers......what a brave, freedom-loving man. It is a David vs Goliath situation. May freedom win!!!!!
Well said Emily, well said
It is now a time of prayer, especially in our own country with Hawaii dealing with such emence tragedy. It's heartbreaking to see the images & hear their stories...
Check out: Hawaiian Relief Candle @Door County Candle Making/Fish Creek WI. 100% of profits go to relief efforts in our 49th/50th state WHO need our help. Check it out
One unfortunate drawback to all this is that Biden’s true accomplishments cannot be reduced to an acronym on a hat.
#nottrump works for me. There are plenty of adjectives to describe Biden's accomplishments. Positive, forward, peaceful, sensible, needed, compassionate, decisive, inclusive, fair, egalitarian, ecological, humanitarian.....
HONEST! Truthful! Trustworthy! Tfg is above all a compulsive liar and a liar cannot be trusted. Trust is so basic in everyone’s life. 💩🤡🎃😱
Beautifully said.
Biden is essentially “Making America Great Again”. So why don’t we totally F*** with the gop and make Blue MAGA hats and start wearing them at Biden rallies?
How about America Better Everywhere (reminiscent of THAT Abe)
MLRGRMI, That sounds like a brilliant idea!
How about
Great
American
Leadership
In
Action
GALIN
I like @BlueRootsRadio summary:
"Positive, forward, peaceful, sensible, needed, compassionate, decisive, inclusive, fair, egalitarian, ecological, humanitarian....."
So, a hat that says: PFPSNCDIFEEH. I genuinely like that idea.
I think I got it! (Biden 2024, Made America Great Again).
https://substack.com/profile/16082992-bluerootsradio/note/c-36745212?utm_source=notes-share-action&r=9kpps
"That embrace of cooperation is ... thanks to President Joe Biden and Secretary of State Antony Blinken"
Meanwhile, the GOP: we must take down the Biden Crime Family.
While the chump cult runs amok.
Exactly.
Thank you, Dr. Richardson, for reminding us how fortunate we are to once again have a sane and sensible administration. No wonder our economy is improving, we have reliable honorable and decent leadership. Thank you also for explaining the continuing conflict in Africa, The European nations of 3 to 4 hundred years ago certainly messed things up in Africa; forcing opposing tribes to form new nations and wantonly killing any who defied them. Is it any wonder they are still fighting today.
Sounds a lot like the havoc they wreaked on our Indigenous tribes.
Biden's done a remarkable job of united an alliance to fight Russia, but the biggest laggard is the Roman Catholic Church and its Pope. I wrote yesterday "On the morning of June 2, 1979 church bells pealed across Poland as Pope John Paul II stepped from his plane onto the soil of his native country then knelt to kiss its ground. His dramatic gesture of devotion and his crusade against human rights abuses helped demolish the Soviet Union. Polish insurgents were allowed to meet, organize, and pass messages in Catholic churches as their Pope spoke out eloquently against Soviet wrongdoing everywhere. In 2003, he was nominated for the Nobel Prize and declined out of humility. In 2014, he was canonized. By contrast, the current incumbent, Pope Francis, has never directly condemned Vladimir Putin or Russia by name in the 18 months since their horrific war began against the Ukrainian people. Worse, the Pope’s first quoted reaction echoed Kremlin talking points when he suggested that the war was a consequence of “NATO barging at Russia’s gate” and the “international arms industry”. This Pope’s failure to publicly condemn Putin and Russia, and his moral equivocation when pressed, is unforgivable and reminiscent of the Papacy’s tacit acceptance of Hitler and his Second World War."
It had to be said.
I disagree with your unfounded denunciation of Pope Francis. Stating objective facts respecting NATO's improper expansion, post Soviet Union does not equate to tacit acceptance of WWII. As horrific as Putin's ingoing war crime in Ukraine is, the analogy to WWII is wholly misplaced
As always, thank you Heather. Your insights are on the spot and the historical context clarifies the issues. Your reXs are very interesting and enlightening too.
Ransom Rideout -- Forgive my ignorance, but what are "reXs?"
I also follow Heather on what used to be Twitter. She would retweet lots of great stuff. Now that it is X, I guess it's reX. I follow several folks, but I otherwise leave it alone.
Heather always makes my day. Joyce Vance is right up there too.
Thanks! I should have known. I used to occasionally catch up with my Twitter account, but once E.M. invaded and changed everything, I am not able to fathom what is happening on X. (Stupidly, I closed Twitter and then tried to re-subscribe.) And since I haven't done anything about that, I guess I don't care. Yes, Heather almost always makes my day, and I see Joyce Vance very frequently on MSNBC, but don't follow on social media or Substack. She's a fantastic force!
You would realy appeciate Joyces' "Civil Discourse". Very insightfull, illuminating aaaannnddd
some times hllariously funny. She, like Heather, is very real.
Substack has become a major platform of serious thought and interaction.
I think I subscribed briefly to Joyce a while ago, and then unsubscribed because of too many other readable "demands" on my plate! However, I agree that she does have a great sense of humor! And I am noticing that Substack has grown greatly in stature. (I'm also aware of some of it being total claptrap.) I just subscribed to Joyce Vance.
I don't want to bug you but Joyce just posted her "Five Questions", that are just for paid subscibers. She had Robbie Kaplan on. This one is not to miss. She represented E. Jean Carrol and knocked down the Defense of Marriage Act. Amazing person.
She is worth it. There is a lot of claptrap everywhere these days. Lots of noise and no thought. Some problematicly intelligent, like Matt Liebermann who is deep into crypto.
Oh well.