Oh how incredibly ironic it is that Georgia Governor Brian Kemp, who stole the election from Stacey Abrams by using voter suppression, must now defend Georgia’s voter integrity!!!
I do believe that Raffensperger is a decent person, and tried to run this election ethically (unlike Kemp). However, he is an example of a strong conservative who voted for his party's candidate TWICE, knowing full well that Trump is the epitome of everything Republicans falsely claim to despise. While Trump has delivered beyond their wildest dreams, no "good" person should rejoice in the end justifying the means. They need to realize that they should be careful what they wish for, because it might come true.
I wonder whether Raffensperger and Kemp now see just how dangerous Trump was and is. Although I don't want anyone to get hurt in this mess (our poor hospitals!), I would be glad to know that the rational Republicans among the leadership (lack of integrity notwithstanding) now realize how very dangerous their flagbearer is and even might feel some remorse and embarrassment.
I doubt that remorse and embarrassment are in their DNA. If they were components, their policies would be different and more humane. As I see it, only their wants and needs are to be considered - the rest of the world that is not useful to them can rot.
Pardon me, but I can’t muster much compassion today for my fellow Americans who supported Republicans senatorial candidates in the recent election.
So much for the wisdom of those who voted against Trump but returned the Senate to McConnell & Co as a “check” on incoming President Biden. When I heard that rationale, I nearly became ill, as I see the results playing out today, my stomach churns and my heart aches.
Who among us here, at least those from my generation who grew up in the 60s, would have imagined the military as the last line of defense against a President and his political party run amok, standing up to the Commander in Chief and proclaiming in effect - not on our watch!
Our family has a long military tradition, dating back to before the American Revolution, so I have always had a strong measure of respect for those who sacrificed all to protect our liberty. But I have also been wary of the institution and its immense power.
And here we are today. For the first time in my life, I find myself taking comfort in the knowledge that our military will not permit a sitting President to oust his duly-elected successor, and realize just how slippery a slope it is from where we find ourselves today, to accepting if not supporting, the military leadership should it decide the time had come to oust a sitting President.
I do not believe it will happen this time, but I fear we have crossed an ominous threshold.
I agree that we can take comfort in the strong values, integrity and the binding oath to the Constitution in our military. I am most impressed and thankful to each of them and feel safer in this insane time that they are there for us.
Absolutely. I also, USED to wonder, and blame the "Republican Senate enablers".
Now, I'm recognizing that they really do represent the crazy vocal minority who are our neighbors! I am REALLY conflicted, as I am also a "pollyanna". Sigh, It is not yet time for reconciliation, still have a long fight
ahead of us....come to think of it, i suppose it is a fight forever to keep our democracy safe.
Remember, the first word in "Truth and Reconciliation Commission" is truth. First, the perps admit to the truth. Then the parties work toward reconciliation.
Without admitting that truth in public, there can be no reconciliation.
I have recognized for some time that there is a significant number of the minority citizenry who are entitled to representation. But IMO their leaders, Republican Senators et al., still took an oath to the Constitution which to me transcends an individual's right to demand physical harm to anyone who opposes their reality.
They ALL are to blame. With enough blame left over for the silent majority. Hopefully we all haven't woken up too late. HCR is surely to thank for a lot of my awakening! Thank you professor, et al!
I was taught in grade school that the two characteristics that distinguish our democracy are the rock-solid belief in the peaceful transfer of power and the faithfulness of our military to the Constitution rather than to a single president (or other person). It rocks my world that either of these two pillars might be cracked by not just one soulless man but also by an entire political party.
This entire statement is so beautifully written, very nicely done. Repeating a small portion here because these could all be words out of my mouth:
Who among us here, at least those from my generation who grew up in the 60s, would have imagined the military as the last line of defense against a President and his political party run amok, standing up to the Commander in Chief and proclaiming in effect - not on our watch!
For the first time in my life, I find myself taking comfort in the knowledge that our military will not permit a sitting President to oust his duly-elected successor
I've only seen clips of Trump's 46-minute, demented-loser rant. After raking in $170 million in a blatant con of his supporters, I'm sure he's looking forward to further fleecing of his cult by declaring his candidacy for 2024.
But I think this is much more of a defense mechanism for his trampled psyche. We've all read more than we ever thought we would about malignant narcissistic personality. Clearly, Trump's overwhelming defeat is a wounding that carries a depth of emotional pain we can't fathom. But who really cares after the damages he's inflicted and will continue to inflict?
To me, the biggest story is Senate Republicans and other GOP leaders not speaking out for the sanctity of an election long ago decided. Chuck Grassley, 87, and certainly in his last term, can't bring himself to say publicly that Biden has won. Trump can do him no harm. I don't understand the fear, nor the calculation these elected officials make in not defending what once was sacred. How do they sleep at night?
One can understand intellectually that they are guilty without understanding viscerally how anyone claiming to be human can behave in the ways they do. There are certain behaviors that I hope never to understand on certain levels, if understanding means believing ethical humans could do the same in similar circumstances.
In HCR’s video talk on 12/01/2020, she theorized that the GOP leaders staying silent or defending Trump are positioning themselves to draw support in 2024 from Trump’s base. Grassley dreams of being the oldest president ever?!?!?
I would add to your list of those not speaking out and who actually encourage support of trump the Kenneth Copelands, Pat Robertsons, Paula Whites, Franklin Grahams, Robert Jeffries. And also include in that group all pastors and priests who preach a pro trump message.
I think those churches that choose to allow the preaching of political messages should lose their tax exempt, non-profit standing. Separation of church and state should go both ways!
I'd like to advance an alternate theory for both Trump and the Republicans politicians supporting him. I think they are TRYING to destroy the government. Consciously. Deliberately.
Point: there is a strong thread of racism in the entire Trump phenomenon, based on the caste system of the US Southern States, which resulted in a civil war in the mid-1800's. The point of that war was -- quite explicitly -- to destroy the Yankee Government, and go back to state rule.
Point: the narrative theme of the modern Republican Party, with roots back in the Nine Words of Reagan (echoing racist sentiments going back to the Civil War) was eventually explained by Grover Norquist as the desire to "shrink the government until it can be drowned in a bathtub."
Point: no one -- to my knowledge -- has proffered ANY coherent explanation of how current Republican behavior serves the country. They've pretty much stopped even trying to explain their behavior in those terms.
Republicans represent people still carrying a blood-grudge over a military defeat a century-and-a-half ago (this is quite recent in blood-grudge terms). Republicans have SAID they want to drown the government in a bathtub: it's been their New Deal. The current Republican behavior is destabilizing the government.
I'm having trouble seeing this as a series of unfortunate coincidences....
I’m looking forward to reading Dr. R’s book, How the South Won the Civil War. After just finishing Isabel Wilkerson’s Caste: The Origins of Our Discontents, I’m interested in learning more about our political history and especially the role of caste in our society.
The connections I’m seeing between caste and politics is growing every day. If we look at the US in terms of caste and see two castes, the top caste being property owners (the stereotypical old white men) and the bottom caste being laborers (we the people), it makes sense that Republicans are refusing to do anything except defend the rights of property owners and protect property. It would also be in their best interests to dismantle a government that is pushing forward an agenda of all men (people) are created equal. If everyone is equal, how can the caste system remain and keep them in power? And what politician is going to explain away their behavior as “Because I’m better than you?” Political suicide, indeed.
Lena, it sounds like you and I have similar bookshelves - am about to finish “Caste” and begin “How the South Won the Civil War.” Like taking the US History course I never got in school...
I’m listening to the audio version now....by HCR, no less! It’s an eye opener, although the descriptions of what we did to the native Americans are hard to get through. No treaty was left intact, we had no shame or sense of decency at all re them or the slaves/freed slaves. I try to put it into perspective of the “times” but the damage runs through the generations.
There is one Native American treaty that was never broken! The Meusebach-Commanche Treaty signed in 1847 is still celebrated every year in Fredericksburg, TX. HCRs books on How the South Won the Civil War and the one Wounded Knee have just arrived. I'm looking forward to reading them both. Especially interested in Wounded Knee. My great-grandfather's sister was married to Dr. Valentine McGillicuddy who was the Field Agent at Pine Ridge but was fired several years before Wounded Knee because he was calling out the corruption going in Washington cheating the Native Americans out of the food and supplies the government had promised them. My great-grandfather taught agriculture at the Haskell Institute in Lawrence, Kansas. So my grandfather and his two brothers were the only white kids attending the School for Native Americans. I gather it was pretty wild.
Sadly, yes. And they were forced onto inhospitable useless land...Until it became valuable when oil or gold or silver was found...or just when it was “in the way”
The Fed Gov of course maintained their powers of "in loco parentis" concerning everything that was under the surface or moving on or over the surface. Thereafter "managing" exploitation for the "good" of the Native. tribes...without allowing them to touch the proceeds for what they might wish for, of course!
Also just read Jody Piccoult’s Small Great Things. She tackles the difficult topic of being a black American facing racism and white supremacy in day to day life.
I read that a cpl years ago and have recommended it to my book club. Picoult always develops her characters thoroughly, and I thought that book was her best.
Me too! My poor library is trying to function with both wings tied because of COVID. However, I see a significant dent in my credit card in my immediate future as I break down and buy both Heather's How the South Won the Civil War and To Make Men Free (I've read both from the library) and Isabel Wilkerson's The Great Migration (which I borrowed) and Caste. I want all these as reference volumes.
Santa's got my list. The kids "and all" have difficulty understanding why I would read such "stuff".....but it makes their life a lot easier for birthdays and Christmas!
If not Bannon then Miller. It was made clear from the beginning that their overall goal was to destroy the government. There is a quote somewhere that I can’t put my hands on right at the moment where trump explicitly said it. For the most part people just seem to have either ignored or forgotten this. We should not be surprised. The old adage, “when someone tells you who they are, believe them” still holds true.
It’s true...in soccer, the striker can’t score if you stop the midfielders from passing them the ball....miller and unseen others are game controllers and need to be seriously addressed
I’ve listened to interviews with IW and must read her book. Thank you for reminding me. I was once both a property owner and a laborer working for minimum wage. BIPOC and artists of all ages worked for me, while a big corporation succeeded in keeping me unprotected by a union. Those who “have” work hard to keep it that way. And I have seen and heard how slavery continues today. It just looks different. ❤️🤍💙
Thanks for the recommendation. I’m on the waiting list for Dr. R’s book as well as Candace Owens Blackout, so in need of a good read right now - and White Trash was available on Libby (love that app!) so I can start reading today!
Interesting panel discussion - Roosevelt House hosts a special evening featuring Nancy Isenberg, author of the groundbreaking bestseller White Trash: The 400-Year Untold History of Class in America, in conversation with Frank Rich, Writer-at-Large for New York Magazine, and Bill Goldstein, Public Programming Curator for Roosevelt House. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s_Gq2qDwFpA
I am just finishing How the South Won the Civil War. Heather has packed the maximum into each paragraph and said SO much so clearly in such a slim volume. What I have felt intuitively since Reagan I now understand in more historically concrete terms. Now I know WHY I've felt this way all this time. Can't wait to read Caste! I learned a lot from Isabel Wilkerson's The Great Migration.
I am agreeing with you.....This looks like it is deliberate..The Republicans are willing players with Trump in this depraved game..no coincidence..................Their silence..........
I believe that this is deliberate, too, and that Trump was chosen because he could be manipulated into this destruction. I doubt that Trump has the intellect or sophistication to have conceived this plan, but he has been a "useful idiot."
No question about it. I read Mary's book, too. He definitely had the "killer instinct" ingrained, and I can't help but wonder how much of it was inherited "nature" and how much was non-"nurture." Bad blood, anyway. Still, his thinking is too primitive and his grasp of historic nuance too lacking to have plotted his destructive rampage alone. Someone saw the potential and manipulated him to his (their) wishes.
Yes, I agree. It's quite calculated and has been in the works for a long time.
I'm wondering if, as time goes by and the new administration settles in and begins to establish a new dialogue, and plan of action, and when people begin to experience some stability - that their homes, livelihoods, and jobs, are no longer being threatened - the inflammatory trump rhetoric will fade away to some degree.
If the leaders, Democrat or Republican, use the same method as trump used, to change the thinking of his followers by repeating the same idea until they begin to believe it, that maybe some will abandon those harmful untruths planted by trump.
My hope is that our country can work to correct the flaws in our system that can be exploited to create a situation like the one we currently suffer from, enjoy peace and prosperity, strengthen our economy and international relationships, and establish that all are equal under the law.
Will people really figure that out quickly? I would hope so, but the Trumpers don't seems to want to change their opinions, even if their lives are not improving.
Why not? Certainly worth a try. Your last paragraph starts with 'my hope'.....it's always a good thing to hope for good things...I hope with you. Thanks.
Joseph Nye Welsh shook his head at McCarthy’s recklessness and cruelty and asked: “Have you no sense of decency, sir, at long last? Have you left no sense of decency?
This is what we need to hear from the senate floor. I find it hard to believe that there is no way to stop his behavior or Flynn's. He is a clear danger to our government and yet our elected Republican Senators are not standing up and saying, ENOUGH!
Re-tweeting sedition still adds up to sedition in my book. Flynn wasn't charged with sedition and not pardoned for it. So charge him and make an example! Get him back in preventive detention NOW.
After the guy in Georgia stood up and said "Far Enough!" yesterday, Trump responded with a tweet of the conspiracy theory that has resulted in the death threats. In response to being called out for their hypocrisy, Perdue and the Bimbette of Belsen both chimed in supporting Trump's response. That's who and what these scum are.
Yes, and Stalin signed a non-aggression pact with Hitler that allowed them both to carve up Poland, then when Hitler invaded the USSR, Churchill offered an immediate unconditional alliance. The past is past and can be litigated after the fire is put out. At the moment, anyone who steps up to man a hose is welcome.
Remember how long it took Welsh to call out McCarthy and what cost to countless Americans. I don't believe there was much decency to be found anywhere within the halls of our government during that period. Whenever I hear members of their own party criticize Ocasio-Cortez, Omar, Tlaib and Pressley for their outspokenly progressive voices, I think, "You are the kind of spineless worms that allowed McCarthy and the HUAC to terrorize this nation in the 1950's. Have you NO sense of history?"
How does a man rise to become a Lieutenant General in the US army and still possess the operating system to call for an overthrow of the constitution and support a rule by force by a defeated candidate. Not that I doubt that there are bad eggs in every institution but still military folks are at the very least patriotic and have strong adherence to the constitution. Makes me wonder about the shaping forces within the US military that would allow for such a man to rise to rise to the top. Is it the same as in the corporate world, simply just shameless self promotion unhinged from any acts valor or integrity ?
I firmly believe Senators and Representatives need to come together and make a clear public statement saying they cannot support the assault on our democratic republic. Instead of this one or that one making individual comments/statements, or waiting for leadership to stand up to the assaults...there is strength in coming together saying 'enough is enough'.
"Yeah, but they're just stupid Dems. What do they know about true greatness (speaking as dyed-in-the-wool Republicans)?" They're like Voldemort's followers. I find absolutely amazing--and appalling--the amount of shame they seem able to hold within themselves without speaking out. The courage of those who do speak out makes the silent ones look even more despicable and calculating. As Michael Bales asked earlier, how do they even look themselves in the mirror?
I was not going to post anything. I have enough on my plate today as I am attending the funeral of my second brother today (private, family only, social distancing). He had a long history of severe respiratory problems and was in and out of the ICU of their local hospital for over a week. He tested negative for COVID on admission to the hospital; however, he died without his wife and children with him due to visitation restrictions secondary to COVID. I know in my bones that his nurses and aides were there with him (I am a retired nurse) but we as medical staff are poor substitutes for family. I count his death as COVID related.
I too am perturbed by the rhetoric surrounding the election results, of the death threats and attempts to subvert the process. It seems overwhelming. I shake my head at the cowardice of those in the Republican Party who refuse to stand up to 45. My question to them is why do you want people to support you who threaten violence against other citizens. They can just as easily turn against you even if you toe their line.
My solution is to be a gadfly to Mr. McConnell who is unfortunately my senior senator. And by the way, thanks to the person who posted a couple of days ago asking what was wrong with Kentucky Republicans and did not throw all Kentuckians into the mix. However, much we may think our voices do not matter, we have to keep raising them in such a number we are too loud to ignore. I have already been sending daily emails to Mr. McConnell's office about the rhetoric surrounding the election results and also about COVID relief. I am one person with the most hated person in the US next to45 as my senator but I can be a gadfly. And by the way, I am constructing a letter to the Kentucky Democrat Party to needle them into more action.
Forgive any punctuation, spelling and format errors. This is a difficult day.
Rebecca, this post of yours should be a must read and deserves a Gold Star! The question you raise --"My question to them is why do you want people to support you who threaten violence against other citizens. They can just as easily turn against you even if you toe their line" -- is one I have but could not form it as you have so pointedly done.
I need not suggest that you continue to be a thorn in the side of your duly elected representative. Thank you for being a consummate gadfly!
May I add my condolences on the loss of your brother. I pray for brighter days for you.
Oh how incredibly ironic it is that Georgia Governor Brian Kemp, who stole the election from Stacey Abrams by using voter suppression, must now defend Georgia’s voter integrity!!!
Yes, the former incredibly rigged Georgian elections that Stacey Abrams unrigged?
I am savoring that! Fake 45 has pretty much encouraged his followers to threaten Kemp too along with Raffensberger. Nope, Fake 45 has no decency.
I do believe that Raffensperger is a decent person, and tried to run this election ethically (unlike Kemp). However, he is an example of a strong conservative who voted for his party's candidate TWICE, knowing full well that Trump is the epitome of everything Republicans falsely claim to despise. While Trump has delivered beyond their wildest dreams, no "good" person should rejoice in the end justifying the means. They need to realize that they should be careful what they wish for, because it might come true.
‘Careful what you wish for,,,’ I had forgotten that statement, my dearly departed husband used to say that a lot!
I wonder whether Raffensperger and Kemp now see just how dangerous Trump was and is. Although I don't want anyone to get hurt in this mess (our poor hospitals!), I would be glad to know that the rational Republicans among the leadership (lack of integrity notwithstanding) now realize how very dangerous their flagbearer is and even might feel some remorse and embarrassment.
I doubt that remorse and embarrassment are in their DNA. If they were components, their policies would be different and more humane. As I see it, only their wants and needs are to be considered - the rest of the world that is not useful to them can rot.
A very accurate analysis.
I know right? He didn't want to go to jail.
Pardon me, but I can’t muster much compassion today for my fellow Americans who supported Republicans senatorial candidates in the recent election.
So much for the wisdom of those who voted against Trump but returned the Senate to McConnell & Co as a “check” on incoming President Biden. When I heard that rationale, I nearly became ill, as I see the results playing out today, my stomach churns and my heart aches.
Who among us here, at least those from my generation who grew up in the 60s, would have imagined the military as the last line of defense against a President and his political party run amok, standing up to the Commander in Chief and proclaiming in effect - not on our watch!
Our family has a long military tradition, dating back to before the American Revolution, so I have always had a strong measure of respect for those who sacrificed all to protect our liberty. But I have also been wary of the institution and its immense power.
And here we are today. For the first time in my life, I find myself taking comfort in the knowledge that our military will not permit a sitting President to oust his duly-elected successor, and realize just how slippery a slope it is from where we find ourselves today, to accepting if not supporting, the military leadership should it decide the time had come to oust a sitting President.
I do not believe it will happen this time, but I fear we have crossed an ominous threshold.
I agree that we can take comfort in the strong values, integrity and the binding oath to the Constitution in our military. I am most impressed and thankful to each of them and feel safer in this insane time that they are there for us.
Our congressional representatives swore that same oath. I am disgusted.
Absolutely. I also, USED to wonder, and blame the "Republican Senate enablers".
Now, I'm recognizing that they really do represent the crazy vocal minority who are our neighbors! I am REALLY conflicted, as I am also a "pollyanna". Sigh, It is not yet time for reconciliation, still have a long fight
ahead of us....come to think of it, i suppose it is a fight forever to keep our democracy safe.
Remember, the first word in "Truth and Reconciliation Commission" is truth. First, the perps admit to the truth. Then the parties work toward reconciliation.
Without admitting that truth in public, there can be no reconciliation.
Sigh, thank you. Well put.
I have recognized for some time that there is a significant number of the minority citizenry who are entitled to representation. But IMO their leaders, Republican Senators et al., still took an oath to the Constitution which to me transcends an individual's right to demand physical harm to anyone who opposes their reality.
They ALL are to blame. With enough blame left over for the silent majority. Hopefully we all haven't woken up too late. HCR is surely to thank for a lot of my awakening! Thank you professor, et al!
I don't think we disagree, Lynn!
I was taught in grade school that the two characteristics that distinguish our democracy are the rock-solid belief in the peaceful transfer of power and the faithfulness of our military to the Constitution rather than to a single president (or other person). It rocks my world that either of these two pillars might be cracked by not just one soulless man but also by an entire political party.
This entire statement is so beautifully written, very nicely done. Repeating a small portion here because these could all be words out of my mouth:
Who among us here, at least those from my generation who grew up in the 60s, would have imagined the military as the last line of defense against a President and his political party run amok, standing up to the Commander in Chief and proclaiming in effect - not on our watch!
For the first time in my life, I find myself taking comfort in the knowledge that our military will not permit a sitting President to oust his duly-elected successor
Thank you for your kind words - I'm happy this resonated with you.
seconding Roland--so well said. And yes, who would have believed....... Horrifying where we are now (and may yet be in the future.....
Well said.
I've only seen clips of Trump's 46-minute, demented-loser rant. After raking in $170 million in a blatant con of his supporters, I'm sure he's looking forward to further fleecing of his cult by declaring his candidacy for 2024.
But I think this is much more of a defense mechanism for his trampled psyche. We've all read more than we ever thought we would about malignant narcissistic personality. Clearly, Trump's overwhelming defeat is a wounding that carries a depth of emotional pain we can't fathom. But who really cares after the damages he's inflicted and will continue to inflict?
To me, the biggest story is Senate Republicans and other GOP leaders not speaking out for the sanctity of an election long ago decided. Chuck Grassley, 87, and certainly in his last term, can't bring himself to say publicly that Biden has won. Trump can do him no harm. I don't understand the fear, nor the calculation these elected officials make in not defending what once was sacred. How do they sleep at night?
i really don't understand either, and to me that will be the most interesting part of this as history looks back and sorts it all out.
Trump is guilty. The Republicans in Congress are guilty. GOP leaders are guilty. His followers are also to blame. Now does it all make sense to you?
One can understand intellectually that they are guilty without understanding viscerally how anyone claiming to be human can behave in the ways they do. There are certain behaviors that I hope never to understand on certain levels, if understanding means believing ethical humans could do the same in similar circumstances.
Yes, it is better to watch their behaviors. Don't attempt to get inside their heads.
In HCR’s video talk on 12/01/2020, she theorized that the GOP leaders staying silent or defending Trump are positioning themselves to draw support in 2024 from Trump’s base. Grassley dreams of being the oldest president ever?!?!?
I would add to your list of those not speaking out and who actually encourage support of trump the Kenneth Copelands, Pat Robertsons, Paula Whites, Franklin Grahams, Robert Jeffries. And also include in that group all pastors and priests who preach a pro trump message.
I think those churches that choose to allow the preaching of political messages should lose their tax exempt, non-profit standing. Separation of church and state should go both ways!
I'd like to advance an alternate theory for both Trump and the Republicans politicians supporting him. I think they are TRYING to destroy the government. Consciously. Deliberately.
Point: there is a strong thread of racism in the entire Trump phenomenon, based on the caste system of the US Southern States, which resulted in a civil war in the mid-1800's. The point of that war was -- quite explicitly -- to destroy the Yankee Government, and go back to state rule.
Point: the narrative theme of the modern Republican Party, with roots back in the Nine Words of Reagan (echoing racist sentiments going back to the Civil War) was eventually explained by Grover Norquist as the desire to "shrink the government until it can be drowned in a bathtub."
Point: no one -- to my knowledge -- has proffered ANY coherent explanation of how current Republican behavior serves the country. They've pretty much stopped even trying to explain their behavior in those terms.
Republicans represent people still carrying a blood-grudge over a military defeat a century-and-a-half ago (this is quite recent in blood-grudge terms). Republicans have SAID they want to drown the government in a bathtub: it's been their New Deal. The current Republican behavior is destabilizing the government.
I'm having trouble seeing this as a series of unfortunate coincidences....
I’m looking forward to reading Dr. R’s book, How the South Won the Civil War. After just finishing Isabel Wilkerson’s Caste: The Origins of Our Discontents, I’m interested in learning more about our political history and especially the role of caste in our society.
The connections I’m seeing between caste and politics is growing every day. If we look at the US in terms of caste and see two castes, the top caste being property owners (the stereotypical old white men) and the bottom caste being laborers (we the people), it makes sense that Republicans are refusing to do anything except defend the rights of property owners and protect property. It would also be in their best interests to dismantle a government that is pushing forward an agenda of all men (people) are created equal. If everyone is equal, how can the caste system remain and keep them in power? And what politician is going to explain away their behavior as “Because I’m better than you?” Political suicide, indeed.
Lena, it sounds like you and I have similar bookshelves - am about to finish “Caste” and begin “How the South Won the Civil War.” Like taking the US History course I never got in school...
I’m listening to the audio version now....by HCR, no less! It’s an eye opener, although the descriptions of what we did to the native Americans are hard to get through. No treaty was left intact, we had no shame or sense of decency at all re them or the slaves/freed slaves. I try to put it into perspective of the “times” but the damage runs through the generations.
As one Native American chief said "the only promise that the whites ever kept was to take all our land" .
There is one Native American treaty that was never broken! The Meusebach-Commanche Treaty signed in 1847 is still celebrated every year in Fredericksburg, TX. HCRs books on How the South Won the Civil War and the one Wounded Knee have just arrived. I'm looking forward to reading them both. Especially interested in Wounded Knee. My great-grandfather's sister was married to Dr. Valentine McGillicuddy who was the Field Agent at Pine Ridge but was fired several years before Wounded Knee because he was calling out the corruption going in Washington cheating the Native Americans out of the food and supplies the government had promised them. My great-grandfather taught agriculture at the Haskell Institute in Lawrence, Kansas. So my grandfather and his two brothers were the only white kids attending the School for Native Americans. I gather it was pretty wild.
The Treaty was negotiated by the local private citizens...makes all the difference perhaps.
What a great family history! So interesting!
Enjoy. Wounded Knee was my first.
Sadly, yes. And they were forced onto inhospitable useless land...Until it became valuable when oil or gold or silver was found...or just when it was “in the way”
The Fed Gov of course maintained their powers of "in loco parentis" concerning everything that was under the surface or moving on or over the surface. Thereafter "managing" exploitation for the "good" of the Native. tribes...without allowing them to touch the proceeds for what they might wish for, of course!
Also just read Jody Piccoult’s Small Great Things. She tackles the difficult topic of being a black American facing racism and white supremacy in day to day life.
I read that a cpl years ago and have recommended it to my book club. Picoult always develops her characters thoroughly, and I thought that book was her best.
I have reserved that at the library - apparently there are many others who did the same.
I have Caste on reserve ...
Me too! My poor library is trying to function with both wings tied because of COVID. However, I see a significant dent in my credit card in my immediate future as I break down and buy both Heather's How the South Won the Civil War and To Make Men Free (I've read both from the library) and Isabel Wilkerson's The Great Migration (which I borrowed) and Caste. I want all these as reference volumes.
So much good stuff to read out there! Hope Santa gets you what you need for your personal library! Ho..Ho..Ho.!
Santa's got my list. The kids "and all" have difficulty understanding why I would read such "stuff".....but it makes their life a lot easier for birthdays and Christmas!
😊 Thanks, and the same to all here! 🎁💖
And, didn't Steve Bannon call for the "destruction of the administrative state?" And is he not still whispering in trump's ear?
If not Bannon then Miller. It was made clear from the beginning that their overall goal was to destroy the government. There is a quote somewhere that I can’t put my hands on right at the moment where trump explicitly said it. For the most part people just seem to have either ignored or forgotten this. We should not be surprised. The old adage, “when someone tells you who they are, believe them” still holds true.
It’s true...in soccer, the striker can’t score if you stop the midfielders from passing them the ball....miller and unseen others are game controllers and need to be seriously addressed
I’ve listened to interviews with IW and must read her book. Thank you for reminding me. I was once both a property owner and a laborer working for minimum wage. BIPOC and artists of all ages worked for me, while a big corporation succeeded in keeping me unprotected by a union. Those who “have” work hard to keep it that way. And I have seen and heard how slavery continues today. It just looks different. ❤️🤍💙
a man by the name of Marx would call them the Bourgeois and the Proletariat.
Ave you read Nancy Isenberg's history "White Trash" ?. She also examines the history of caste in America.
Thanks for the recommendation. I’m on the waiting list for Dr. R’s book as well as Candace Owens Blackout, so in need of a good read right now - and White Trash was available on Libby (love that app!) so I can start reading today!
Didn’t know about the Libby app. Thanks!
Libby is AWESOME. I have been able to read so many great books free due to Libby.
https://apps.apple.com/us/app/libby-by-overdrive/id1076402606
Overdrive AKA Libby the digital borrowing AP many libraries are tied into.
Interesting panel discussion - Roosevelt House hosts a special evening featuring Nancy Isenberg, author of the groundbreaking bestseller White Trash: The 400-Year Untold History of Class in America, in conversation with Frank Rich, Writer-at-Large for New York Magazine, and Bill Goldstein, Public Programming Curator for Roosevelt House. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s_Gq2qDwFpA
I would add, "Leadership in Turbulent Times", by Doris Kearns Goodwin to the list.
Thanks!
I am just finishing How the South Won the Civil War. Heather has packed the maximum into each paragraph and said SO much so clearly in such a slim volume. What I have felt intuitively since Reagan I now understand in more historically concrete terms. Now I know WHY I've felt this way all this time. Can't wait to read Caste! I learned a lot from Isabel Wilkerson's The Great Migration.
I am agreeing with you.....This looks like it is deliberate..The Republicans are willing players with Trump in this depraved game..no coincidence..................Their silence..........
Agreed!
I believe that this is deliberate, too, and that Trump was chosen because he could be manipulated into this destruction. I doubt that Trump has the intellect or sophistication to have conceived this plan, but he has been a "useful idiot."
According to Mary Trump, that is exactly what he was groomed to be by his father.
No question about it. I read Mary's book, too. He definitely had the "killer instinct" ingrained, and I can't help but wonder how much of it was inherited "nature" and how much was non-"nurture." Bad blood, anyway. Still, his thinking is too primitive and his grasp of historic nuance too lacking to have plotted his destructive rampage alone. Someone saw the potential and manipulated him to his (their) wishes.
Yes, I agree. It's quite calculated and has been in the works for a long time.
I'm wondering if, as time goes by and the new administration settles in and begins to establish a new dialogue, and plan of action, and when people begin to experience some stability - that their homes, livelihoods, and jobs, are no longer being threatened - the inflammatory trump rhetoric will fade away to some degree.
If the leaders, Democrat or Republican, use the same method as trump used, to change the thinking of his followers by repeating the same idea until they begin to believe it, that maybe some will abandon those harmful untruths planted by trump.
My hope is that our country can work to correct the flaws in our system that can be exploited to create a situation like the one we currently suffer from, enjoy peace and prosperity, strengthen our economy and international relationships, and establish that all are equal under the law.
Will people really figure that out quickly? I would hope so, but the Trumpers don't seems to want to change their opinions, even if their lives are not improving.
I don't know... just thought if it works in one direction it could also work in another direction.
Why not? Certainly worth a try. Your last paragraph starts with 'my hope'.....it's always a good thing to hope for good things...I hope with you. Thanks.
when you're infatuated, nothing can sway you. these people idolize this man as a gift straight from the right hand of God.
So true.....can always try.
Joseph Nye Welsh shook his head at McCarthy’s recklessness and cruelty and asked: “Have you no sense of decency, sir, at long last? Have you left no sense of decency?
This is what we need to hear from the senate floor. I find it hard to believe that there is no way to stop his behavior or Flynn's. He is a clear danger to our government and yet our elected Republican Senators are not standing up and saying, ENOUGH!
Re-tweeting sedition still adds up to sedition in my book. Flynn wasn't charged with sedition and not pardoned for it. So charge him and make an example! Get him back in preventive detention NOW.
How could that happen, who needs to do this?? I think it is ABSOLUTELY IMPERATIVE that he be arrested for sedition!!
Right Stuart!!! Who does it and how? Dem leadership is too chicken to do it, IMHO
Under normal circumstances the DOJ would instruct the FBI to investigate and charge if necessary. As it is the FBI would have to take the initiative.
One of the best things about you Stuart is your breadth of knowledge.
Stuart, I completely agree with Daria. I'm glad you're in our corner!
Hopefully, Biden will be able to initiate the action - that is, IF we can win the runoff, and WHEN we have a new AG who won't interfere with the DOJ.
Thanks. Perhaps a True Patriot (not the FAKE kind) will step forward......
After the guy in Georgia stood up and said "Far Enough!" yesterday, Trump responded with a tweet of the conspiracy theory that has resulted in the death threats. In response to being called out for their hypocrisy, Perdue and the Bimbette of Belsen both chimed in supporting Trump's response. That's who and what these scum are.
The Far Enough speech should be played far and wide.
Trump had to lose the election before these yahoos would finally get enough backbone to speak up.
Yes, and Stalin signed a non-aggression pact with Hitler that allowed them both to carve up Poland, then when Hitler invaded the USSR, Churchill offered an immediate unconditional alliance. The past is past and can be litigated after the fire is put out. At the moment, anyone who steps up to man a hose is welcome.
Remember how long it took Welsh to call out McCarthy and what cost to countless Americans. I don't believe there was much decency to be found anywhere within the halls of our government during that period. Whenever I hear members of their own party criticize Ocasio-Cortez, Omar, Tlaib and Pressley for their outspokenly progressive voices, I think, "You are the kind of spineless worms that allowed McCarthy and the HUAC to terrorize this nation in the 1950's. Have you NO sense of history?"
How does a man rise to become a Lieutenant General in the US army and still possess the operating system to call for an overthrow of the constitution and support a rule by force by a defeated candidate. Not that I doubt that there are bad eggs in every institution but still military folks are at the very least patriotic and have strong adherence to the constitution. Makes me wonder about the shaping forces within the US military that would allow for such a man to rise to rise to the top. Is it the same as in the corporate world, simply just shameless self promotion unhinged from any acts valor or integrity ?
I firmly believe Senators and Representatives need to come together and make a clear public statement saying they cannot support the assault on our democratic republic. Instead of this one or that one making individual comments/statements, or waiting for leadership to stand up to the assaults...there is strength in coming together saying 'enough is enough'.
I agree that would be a powerful act, but I just don't see anyone standing up to lead, unfortunately. Maybe when the vote is certified, Dec 8?
....most likely they're waiting for the Georgia senatorial race results?
"Yeah, but they're just stupid Dems. What do they know about true greatness (speaking as dyed-in-the-wool Republicans)?" They're like Voldemort's followers. I find absolutely amazing--and appalling--the amount of shame they seem able to hold within themselves without speaking out. The courage of those who do speak out makes the silent ones look even more despicable and calculating. As Michael Bales asked earlier, how do they even look themselves in the mirror?
A rhetorical quote--an imaginary thought by defensive Congressional Republicans (as clarified in the parentheses. No attribution necessary.
I was not going to post anything. I have enough on my plate today as I am attending the funeral of my second brother today (private, family only, social distancing). He had a long history of severe respiratory problems and was in and out of the ICU of their local hospital for over a week. He tested negative for COVID on admission to the hospital; however, he died without his wife and children with him due to visitation restrictions secondary to COVID. I know in my bones that his nurses and aides were there with him (I am a retired nurse) but we as medical staff are poor substitutes for family. I count his death as COVID related.
I too am perturbed by the rhetoric surrounding the election results, of the death threats and attempts to subvert the process. It seems overwhelming. I shake my head at the cowardice of those in the Republican Party who refuse to stand up to 45. My question to them is why do you want people to support you who threaten violence against other citizens. They can just as easily turn against you even if you toe their line.
My solution is to be a gadfly to Mr. McConnell who is unfortunately my senior senator. And by the way, thanks to the person who posted a couple of days ago asking what was wrong with Kentucky Republicans and did not throw all Kentuckians into the mix. However, much we may think our voices do not matter, we have to keep raising them in such a number we are too loud to ignore. I have already been sending daily emails to Mr. McConnell's office about the rhetoric surrounding the election results and also about COVID relief. I am one person with the most hated person in the US next to45 as my senator but I can be a gadfly. And by the way, I am constructing a letter to the Kentucky Democrat Party to needle them into more action.
Forgive any punctuation, spelling and format errors. This is a difficult day.
Rebecca, this post of yours should be a must read and deserves a Gold Star! The question you raise --"My question to them is why do you want people to support you who threaten violence against other citizens. They can just as easily turn against you even if you toe their line" -- is one I have but could not form it as you have so pointedly done.
I need not suggest that you continue to be a thorn in the side of your duly elected representative. Thank you for being a consummate gadfly!
May I add my condolences on the loss of your brother. I pray for brighter days for you.