I think the mainstream media will be only too gleefully covering the antics of the treason party--after all, if it bleeds, it leads--so I applaud your inclination to cover the really meaningful issues for us, Professor.
I hate seeing the tabloid headlines when I am at the checkout at the grocery store! Tabloids should not be allowed to be placed at those locations. So many believe the headlines and don't read the article.
All of the papers and most broadcast media have become tabloids and your comment about headlines and reading is true across the board. The Enquirer has as much right to be there as USA Today or any other. It's up to us to ignore them and inform ourselves from reliable sources like this one.
As checkouts have become more self-checks and floor space more limited, they've become less apparent. If I wanted to buy a paper now I'd go to a drug store or C-store.
Jude I agree that for LFAA readers the antics of Jackass Jordan and other Republican Animal House weasels are reprehensible and deserve the harsh light of investigative reporters.
However, there will be enough fresh elephant shit in the bevy of ‘investigations,’ that much of the media is capable of focusing on the phony flash rather than the cool-headed facts..
My hope is that none of these Animal House ‘shows’ get significant TV coverage and that Democrats on these House committees pursue a Raskin/Cheney pin-in-the-balloon riposte to Republican bull shit.
If only reporters on Capitol Hill would keep their mics away from the animals and focus on real news...and if only talking heads on cable would STOP inviting the animals onto their shows to ruin them. I hope this is not going to be a trend for the next two years.
I am surprised that Professor Richardson chose not to cover the discovery of a second set of confidential documents that were not where they should have been. It’s not an issue, but it’s an “issue”.
It will make not a whit of difference that there are chasms between the Biden case and the Trump one. The results of this are going to be unpleasant.
I suspect that this will be the effective end of the potential for an indictment of Trump. I have no faith in Garland to begin with - he has proved from the start that he is pusillanimous, cloaking weak decisions or non-decisions under the veil of institutionalism. His slowness in the Jan. 6 insurrection cannot be excused on the basis of his patronizing explanation to all of us dweebs out there that investigations are conducted from the “bottom up” does not hold up. Effectively there is now little chance that the top actors in the insurrection will be indicted. Certainly not Trump if he manages to remain engaged in the Presidential race. Time has run out.
And Mark Meadows was not convicted for his uh voting mishap in 2020.
But back to Biden. I believe that there is little likelihood that there is anything at all nefarious in his conduct. Nonetheless the screaming and shouting and posturing from the other side will wipe out anything resembling a distinction between the cases.
One by one I see these cases falling by the wayside. It is a travesty of epic proportions. I am reminded of Anatole France’s bitter epigram:
“The law, in its majestic equality, forbids rich and poor alike to sleep under bridges, to beg in the streets, and to steal loaves of bread.”
I agree. Haters gonna hate. Not to ignore the darkness, but shine a light on the (hopefully) many times decent people with genuine differences in perspective work together for the good of their constituents.
You know why? Because it's easy and finds an eager audience. Reporting about what really matters, as in serious relevant issues, is harder. And so many Americans tune out to it.
Michael Being informed and actually thinking can be exhausting. Sadly most ‘news’ is presented as entertainment rather than enlightenment. I find, increasingly among younger folk, scant knowledge about complex issues that I consider important to our country’s future. AWWWK!
Main Stream Media. Not all of it, just the ones who get on everybody's nerves. I have a thing about headlines that don't reflect the actual content of a story.
It's just been so frustrating and disappointing that there never seems to be consequences for all the lying, cheating, stealing, and overall corruption in the Republican governing body and so it just continues while we patiently wait for justice to prevail.
Oddly, in any adult-supervised children's activity I experienced as a child and a parent, there is a consistent premium placed on teaching and maintaining even-handed, civil behavior; which. as a community standard, is relaxed considerably when those children become adults, and all but abandoned entirely if they go into politics.
And why...? How does that happen,? In three words or less, please. I wonder how is it assumed that just because a human has survived to become a politician, it can create it's own rules or have no rules?
The heady life of being in one of the most powerful positions in the land is beguiling and corrupting to many. It also has to do with the kind of person who seeks this office, since a campaign usually devolves into a popularity contest.
No consequences? Which party controls the White House and the Senate? Which party was much more successful in the mid-term election than predicted? Which party gained more governorships in 2022? Which party flipped several state legislative houses? Which party has won three of the last four presidential elections, and won the popular vote in all four? Hint: It wasn’t the Republicans.
Even since the media flipped in the Reagan Era (they pursued Nixon but could not stop loving Reagan) Democrats as a party have been shy of holding Republicans accountable. The more they get away with, the worse the become. The Jan 6th committee broke the ice, but We the People must pick up the slack.
“In this age, in this country, public sentiment is everything. With it, nothing can fail; against it, nothing can succeed. Whoever molds public sentiment goes deeper than he who enacts statutes, or pronounces judicial decisions.” - Lincoln
"Accustomed to trample on the rights of those around you, you have lost the genius of your own independence, and become the fit subjects of the first cunning tyrant who rises."
Therein lies the problem, "while we patiently wait for justice to prevail." We can't wait. We have to actively pursue justice, every one of us who cares. Write letters. Bend ears. Demand (positive) action.
It was difficult for me to get through this excellent Letter because my mind had a dangerously high temperature. That HCR suspects she will not always report on the extremely destructive Republican party is a fine idea. In addition to focusing on Climate Change/Catastrophe, the health of the American people demands attention. Drug addiction, alcoholism, obesity--mortality rates; gun violence; mental health issues; our children's health, education and welfare require sustained reporting and treatment. What a picture we are -- in the wealthiest country on earth! That so many of our elected officials are unfit, traitors of democracy and party to America's unwellness is the investigative reporting that will wise up Americans to who is doing what to whom.
If we care about democracy, we will work toward an informed citizenry.
Fern, you write the truth. “In addition to focusing on Climate Change/Catastrophe, the health of the American people demands attention.” The fact that there is so much to care about, to pay attention to, to change, is overwhelming. And discouraging. I worry there is so much that is negative and dependent on a corrupt political party, that people may turn off and not work for change. But I’m part of the citizenry, like you and others we know, that continue to keep on keeping on.
And also the pernicious and corrupt excessive influence money on American political outcomes that is hiding in plain sight. How is it not anti-democratic and corrupt? It's the one ring to rule them all, that imminent climate emergency included. So many fires in need a brigade.
Informed citizenry, yes! As a person who is working to get LWV forums for municipal elections launched I totally agree. I find the public ignores the importance of municipal elections, even though those candidates make huge decisions for the daily life of the citizens and then often run for State Rep and up. There was a time, I too focused on only national not local politics. But all governing begins as home. I am constantly, and often unsuccessfully, (‘too busy, let young people do it now, maaaaybe, I’m not interested, I hate politics, oh no too depressing etc’) recruiting to find help in developing forums. There’s a lot of work to creating forums, much behind the scenes.
I don't have an answer, but we need somehow to find a way to broaden and deepen the national conversation. What is democracy without conversation. Self-governance means we share the collective burden of national, and even world outcomes, as well as of making wise choices in our personal dealings. Our edge as a species has in large part to do with our pooled observations, creations, and skills. Our folly is when we act without sufficient consideration.
Dr. Cox-Richardson helps us keep the big picture in mind while we take seemingly small actions. Focus on what you're good at, and apply your energies/money there. It is easy to become overwhelmed. Greta Thunberg, for example, would make an excellent spokesperson for people on the spectrum, but focuses on climate change.
Me, vaccines are my thing, though I remain aware of all the other issues. Find your superpower, find your voice, find your people. There are enough of us to attend to all that needs attending to. We are 2/3 of the country with 3/4+ of the wealth, after all.
I too have difficulty focusing on the unfolding disaster in the House.
I think the performative assignment by HCR is accompanied by the lack of experienced and capable leadership in the Republican Party.
We are mostly a group focused on the significant current events as details of History. So in perspective the House Republican first passages of the two laws are clearly little more than sign waving. We could have two years of this meaningless action.
It’s my sincere hope that responsible Americans will perceive the danger of this playpen politics and snuff the cranks out of office in 2024. Returning the Public Good as a reason for Government would be a good start.
Agree with Barbara S below, "Playpen politics"---that sizzles!
I'd like to see Biden use that term, it is perfectly descriptive and would make a great sound bite, and sadly, the MAGA crowd can only focus on sound bites.
The January 6th Committee was an example of accountability done right, though not the only one. Despots always feature show trials. We need to find ways to encourage and reward those grappling with adult problems with their adult hats on (as Greta Thunberg has). Gracefully and cleverly (as in skilled prosecutor clever) show off GOP narcissistic snots for what they are.
Yes, so many things to address and what do they do first...besides removing the metal detectors. They try to undo the upgrades to the IRS and two abortion bills plus a committee chaired by screaming Gym to investigate federal LE agencies basically. And of course they are in a huff about the found classified docs recently found and turned over immediately to the National Archives. We were treated to that fat pig Graham calling for a special prosecutor. Muted him of course, but still his ugly pompous face. And oh yes, the impeachment of the homeland security secretary. Heather is right; they will be sucking the air out of the room where we all should be tending to the immense problems we face. As an alternative of what pols can do: the new Oregon D governor signed three executive orders her first full day in office including one that declares homelessness an emergency. One had to do with housing. Of course, the critics came out of the woodwork because the streets were not immediately free of tents and trash. She has made a start and made clear her priorities which is necessary when we have a new administration.
Amen to that, Fern. And the older I become, the more I've come to believe that education needs to shine a light on understanding the difference between wants and needs. Probably overly simplistic but the best I have to offer right now. My optimism is overshadowed today by too many Americans chanting "Gimme, gimme, gimme."
Our capitalist system breeds this, as it can only keep on chugging along, as long as people keep clamoring for things and stuff. Advertising seduces people into thinking they will finally be happy if they buy that thing, or this thing, or go to that place or eat this food. Distracting people with this constant consumption, while the country's rightists leaders work to dismantle the safety net, that can actually provide the foundation for true happiness - through achieving a decent life - keeps the whole system going.
I recently learned that the State of Indiana is going to provide the textbooks and tools for the classrooms in the future; therefore, saving parents the cost of textbooks and they are presenting it as a tax savings to parents. What does that tell us....that they will provide what the Republicans wish to be taught to our Indiana students.
Controlling the education of children is one facet of Fascism.
Developing populations of conforming people was the basis for “One Folk, One Nation, One Führer,” slogan that cemented a generation of people to a deadly ideology.
The current Republican take no prisoners ideology isn’t much different than 1933 Germany.
I agree and can see this. They also want to pour more money into education and make is so everyone can choose where they attend private (with vouchers) or public schools. This is supposed to be a wonderful thing! I would have to vote against it all!
Yesterday, I littered the comment area with my enthusiastic posts about "Beau of the Fifth Column", here I go again. Today's Letter and your comment exemplifies just why by focusing on the clown car GOP exclusively, we miss a lot of important issues. This clip from a day or two ago covered news I had heard nothing at all about. So glad Beau is posting about the health of Alaska's rivers!
Amen, Fern. Beyond the dysfunction, disinformation, and corruption of the Repub. party, we need to get the broader view of health issues in our country. Those issues you've mentioned are critically important to the well-being of individuals and the country. We can't depend on MSM to provide attention to these health issues when they focus principally on two political parties tossing charges back and forth endlessly. MSM and their reporters/broadcasters should be held to account for the truth of every charge they make. Then, we could have a national credibility rating for everyone providing news to us.
Sometimes I think we should start a national restructuring by having a referendum on issues important to the American people. We could start with a list of 25 or more issues and have each American list those issues in the order of importance to them. That might at least serve as a starting point to get us back on track. Prioritizing issues and then educating people about them is critically important.
When I saw your 'like' Heydon, I hoped we would make contact. I think our biggest communications problems in the US are the disappearance of newspapers (with the journalistic foundation) particularly, regionally and locally and social media. The economic models used in the past are impossible. There are modern/technological means to address this. A vibrant and easily accessible free-press is an absolute necessity for democracy. Regulating social media is also an absolute necessity. As a people we need to mobilize and organize to address government and lobby the ultra-rich who have demonstrated their advocacy on behalf of democratic principles to begin rebuilding the free-press.
Mobilizing/Organizing the American people is the overall BIG PROBLEM we have in keeping what is left of our democracy and strengthening it.
I agree, Fern. The challenge of mobilizing/organizing the American people is critically important. There has to be a unifying force or principle to begin that process. It seems to me that we could start a reorganization based around the lowest common denominators all people--in this case, all Americans--face in dealing with daily life (e.g., the need for healthy food, clean air, clean water, et al). Personally, I find that talking with individuals one-on-one in a civilized manner has been most effective; the give and take, the sharing of ideas. I also believe that trusted journalists are imperative in spreading the word. MSM is out; they just want a pretty face to read provided news reports. And the pretty faces want a lucrative contract to fill that slot. Those readers do not demonstrate any allegiance to truth. I depend on people like Matt Taibbi and others on excellent podcasts (e.g., on Youtube) to be honest and informed and don't hesitate to tell the full truth of issues they report on.
I've noticed a lot of new letters being written through Substack lately, including this one. It might be fun for you to start your own focusing on ClimateChange/Catastrophe and the health of the American people. I'd be first in line to read what you have to say about it. Your contributions to HCR's Letters from an American are always so intelligent and well written... go for it!
Gayle, your compliment was as sweet as maple syrup. Thank you. While reading your words, I thought of HCR and what I learn from her, In addition to the history of the US , it is her concentration, perceptions, calm, kindness, clarity and steady commitment that stir me. To have formed a community, united in strong advocacy of democracy, learning, caring, listening and sharing this is the ground I gratefully inhabit.
Keeping in mind that "informed citizenry" does not necessarily mean agreeing with us - but people who can bring various perspectives to the table and discuss without resorting to name-calling and relying on demonstrable untruths. (Sometimes some of us need to think a little harder about what we believe and why- and leave the epithets aside.)
I agree. We need to have all people--perhaps at community gatherings--discuss the important issues in a respectful manner. People choosing to be involved in such meetings should be instructed to leave their political parties and prejudices at the door.
So Republican officials in New York’s Nassau County think "...there is a part of our public that is cynical about politicians and public officials.” I wonder where they got that idea?
Yes, swimming here in Northern California, but the mushrooms are everywhere, and waterfalls I haven't seen in years. It was supposed to be another dry winter (we don't normally get any summer rain), but most of us wished for more rain.... If only it will pack the mountains with snow and also fill the man made reservoirs.
How about some great news from California? Katie Porter, USRep from Orange County has declared her candidacy for Senator in 2024! Follow Nancy's lead, Dianne.
My heart skipped a beat when I saw Katie Porter is running for the Senate. She is phenomenal. I have sent her donations, though I am not a Californian. Thanks for the uplifting comment.
Lynell, I was thinking the same thing as you. Over the past year or so, reading their posts that share a bit of their personal lives, I've come to know and think of those folks as friends/family. When one (of the many, sadly) mass shootings occurred last year, in a town halfway across the country from me where a lifelong friend retired, I thought........uh oh?
This friend lives so close to where a mass shooting occurred that the flashing lights and the sirens drew her to her window. When something in the news happens to an area, I think "how is (insert LFAA forum friend) doing?"
Good morning, and thank you. So far, Oregon is doing fairly well (it appears that California is bearing the brunt of what we occasionally get. We have not had an "average" rainfall year in the mid-Willamette Valley in at least a decade.
Imagine what this is going to look to historians, 20 years from now, as the climate breakdown has continued its inexorable devastation? Will they see the fascist puppet show dancing in our digital proscenium as a diabolical diversion to the nation’s attention to the real threat, or perhaps as a welcome diversion that we wanted to shield our inaction in dealing with the fossil fuel oligarchs?
The internet projects forecasts of over a billion “climate refugees” by then, but every climate breakdown forecast has been an under-estimation. and quietly re-upped without discussion. Will we be seen as betrayed by our science almost as much as our oligarchs…?
What an odd question. We will be seen as being betrayed by those of us who willfully ignored the conclusions suggested by the best data available at the time, and refused to make obvious changes in policy because those voluntary changes were expensive and disruptive. The changes we all will deal with as a result of the refusal of corporate entities to change course earlier will be far more disruptive, and far more costly. Why would you try to blame “science” for the refusal to be proactive?
Thank you Meredith, for this well; considered reply. You are exactly right. Science is only as good as the current understanding and data allow. That is the beauty of it. Scientists are usually open to new findings as better instrumentation and data become available. No real scientist believes that understanding remains "true and constant", otherwise it wouldn't be science, it would be faith based religion.
The ‘new findings’ and ‘better instrumentation’ is exemplified in the immediate successes of the Webb Telescope and the data it has produced. Although Hubble answered many important questions, it opened up many more lines of inquiry now being explored by Webb.
Hi, Fay, thanks. I agree, scientific questioning and experimentation requires a mindset very different from finding and then clinging to any immutable truth on the basis of faith.
Meredith, methinks our failings lie not in our science but in our forced ignorance of where people get their money. Those who have resisted the necessary changes to avert climate change have generally done so because of the difficulty of giving up on a way of making a living, whether it be the politicians or us regular folk. What will lure those of us addicted to easy fun and convenience on our motor boats, enormous pick-up trucks, SUVs, performance cars, gas & oil furnaces, snowmobiles, 4-wheelers, etc. to give them up for sailboats, canoes & kayaks, bicycles, e-bikes, & mountain bikes, geothermal & solar heat and even cross-country skis for those fortunate enough to still have snow? Even less accessible to change will be the people who make their livings from manufacturing, selling and servicing all these climate-altering devices. And yet, that is what we must be seeking if we want any chance at averting the climate catastrophes inexorably rolling our way.
What purpose does climatology have other than to instill fear and promote global taxes on energy? There may be other uses, but none that would support a massive amount of research. We are wasting money and brain power seeking proof of a religious belief.
Troll alert above. Reported to Substack Inc, SF CA., including the attorneys for CEO Christopher Best's operation.. Substack Ic is literally literary around the corner from old law firm address. One source says Best does have "content management" employees. Christopher ... HEY CHRIS! have the Dept Head respond.
That's funny. I'd like to see what you cite as a reason for reporting me as a troll. I'll bet they think you are a troll bothering them emotional appeals to anti-science.
Science is a practice. As a practice and not a person, it does not care about anything, least of all your political biases.
James Hansen wrote in 2003 that the last time that much carbon was in the atmosphere, the oceans were 80 feet higher. But most of the other scientists at the time kept forecasting a 10-inch rise by 2100.
Florida soil is mostly composed of calcium carbonates, which are the shells of invertebrates. The panhandle was under several meters of water at one time. So how is this sea level rise supposed to be something out of the ordinary? Sea levels have risen 120 meters in the past 20,000 years, as glaciers receded and the planet warmed. Please describe what is out of the ordinary?
This is going to sound snarky, but I truly don't mean it that way. Why do you even have a lawn? When I was a kid in the 1950s, my grandmother in Santa Barbara had rock and cactus landscaping around her house -- no water needed. I thought it was enchanting.
"The warming climate is intensifying both droughts—which feed fires—and storms like those currently creating such destruction. "
Not to mention that: In Rochester, NY where the historical average snowfall per year was 140 inches per year when I arrived in 1987 and by the end of December all of the Finger Lakes were frozen over, today Rochester has received around 2" of snowfall so far, profoundly under normal, and not a single Finger Lake has ice on it.
Ask any ice fisherman if climate change is real and you will hear an hour of stories about how it used to be but now it is not.
Last but not least, the spring feeding my pond dried up in August. It remains dry at this time, a historic observation since normally there is a full creek running away from it this time of year.
Bad things are happening and we, right here in America, are going to run out of water. And? I am living in an area that once was awash in water.
In the meantime, Republicans are making sure the big donors can add more damage to the climate.
The warm temperatures we are experiencing in WNY this winter will have dire consequences this summer as well. Two summers ago, gypsy moths defoliated thousands of acres of forest land AND backyard trees—the result of the preceding relatively warm winter. The scene was unsightly: our house, garage and even autos were covered by the dark brown caterpillars inching their way to the trees they eventually devoured one leaf at a time. In Naples, NY, entire hillsides were bare as a result. Fortunately, most trees recovered by the end of the summer, but repeated gypsy moth plagues will be hard to tolerate by our region’s forests. Our entire ecosystem will be affected!
I can't ❤️ this statement. I had just moved to Eugene when we had our gypsy moth infestation; the area where I currently live had the highest percentage of moths trapped (I moved here 8 years after the infestation, and all signs were gone by then). It took quite an effort but was ultimately successful.
Glad the Eugene experience was positive. As the article I cited indicates, however, “[h]ardwood trees (oaks, maples, hickories, etc.) may be able to survive two or more years of defoliation, if they are in good health to begin with,” Welser said. “Evergreens, on the other hand, are likely to die after one year of defoliation.”
We had to cut 16 pine trees in our property last fall.
What was most at risk here were pines and fir, with a little bit of oak thrown in. That the oak and fir forest on the ridge behind my house was saved is short of amazing. (Hawkins Heights if your "OR" includes any knowledge of Eugene). My former home was about a mile east and north; we were not inundated, and no moths were trapped in our area.
And then there are the ticks & Lyme Disease - My son was diagnosed with it several years ago & treated for it - in PA! The test in NYS was negative before that. My dog, Suzy, (before Axel) was diagnosed for it - missed her flea treatment when we had a warm November 3 years ago. I know of one man who was mis-diagnosed for too long before he too went to a dr in PA. He is now in a wheelchair. And then there was (and IS) Covid!
20,000 years ago New York City was under several hundred meters of ice. It has taken 20,000 years for the last major glaciation to recede. This warming phase did not begin with the discovery of fossil fuel, but it did lead to the most survivable climate that humans have seen in over 200,000 years. Climatically speaking, we are living in prime time for all living things. Your fears stem from a religious fervor of disbelief.
Climate change is indeed real, and many civilizations have perished when they were not prepared for it. The ones who survived migrated to greener pastures.
As my science teacher said so memorably: "Species will adapt, migrate or die."
Long past time for us to have begun our strategic withdrawal from obviously doomed areas. NYC, Boston, Miami are all built on reclaimed land that is in the process of being reclaimed by water. Skyscrapers on mud. Stupid humans wallowing their current wealth and luxury condemning their descendants to disaster and avoidable expense.
Exactly, but today people talk out of both sides of their mouths. Democrats say "Trust the Science" until it becomes inconvenient for their current crises. Then they break out the violins, shed a phony tear and proclaim "what about the children?". It's all an act repeated so often that anyone can see it coming from a mile away.
At the current rate of rise, The buildings in NYC can be adapted. Many already have basements below sea level. In a century the water will still not be in the streets. If a barnacle can keep up with sea level rise, surely we can. LOL.
As for homes, most are not built to last a century. Plenty of time for "the children" to grow up and build their own homes on solid ground.
People treating this as an immediate crisis are ignorant of timescales.
I think we agree in the grand scheme of time and history. But "Shirley, you jest!" when you say it is not an immediate crisis. It has been an immediate crisis for decades.
My point is that we should be adapting before major population centers are unlivable. Miami is already coming close to ridiculous. Boston floods regularly. The Florida Keys will be an underwater theme park any day now.
And the homes built within fire prone wooded areas or perched near beaches or on hillsides begging for a mudslide? Rebuilding in flood plains along rivers like the Mississippi? We insure these places? Irresponsible insanity.
To debate the causes of a changing climate is a hobby. To not react to and plan for the future based on observable trends and historical facts is just selfish - it says we don't give a shit about our kids or their kids. Let alone the wasted money developing where development is just stupid.
If it is a crisis then it's a crisis of Government making. One more reason we need less, not more government.
All of the things you cited are not things you and I are doing. I don't live on the beach or in a flood/fire prone area. I do insure many of them indirectly via Federal Flood insurance. That should cease immediately. Most of the people living on the beach are wealthy and can afford to rebuild. If they are not they do not belong there. In New Orleans, once again, Federal loans and insurance allowed poor folks to build below sea level. If there is any action needed by Government, it is mostly inaction in the way of not insuring people (on my dime) to make such poor moves.
Again, "fixing" climate change is lunacy. Adapting is not. Climate has been changing since the planet has had an atmosphere, and those who are not prepared deserve what they get.
Ellen DeGeneres was on youtube crying about the swollen creek near her house and saying that "we need to do something about this". I did not build my house next to a creek with huge boulders which were obviously carried there by moving water, she did. She has no right to blame me for her own stupidity. Sadly, our government is just as stupid. Anything the screaming folks like Ellen ask, they make it a point to build a bureaucracy around. Stopping this budgetary madness will leave more room for the good social programs that actually help people in direst need.
I completely agree. The government needs to change its "flood insurance" protection to a one time buy out for folks who would qualify - that is: assets and income below a certain number. There are "working poor" who need a hand relocating. If they refuse the buy out, just say good bye, good luck and I'll see you on another planet.
As to those who are affluent and live in stupid dangerous places, no sympathy from me.
As to the size of the government...I will poke the bear. The problem with the government is that it is too small and vastly underfunded. There is $100 trillion in the hands of a handful of people. It needs to be clawed back and applied to universal health care and true universal education.
That would be a just society for ALL - not just those who have inherited their privilege.
Despite what Ronnie Raygun said, the government is not the problem. The Oligarchs who hog the national treasure are the problem. The people who MAKE MONEY off of illness are the problem.
Taxes, taxes and more taxes on the rabidly rich would be justice and a true democracy - not one that just serves the elite whites.
I don't disagree with you, but you're missing a really big piece of the picture, and that is the fact that a) almost no one's "livelihood" -- the thing they are expected to know and be good at -- has anything at all to do with survival, and b) the people who put a full plate of food in front of us (or build a house for us to shelter in) have no interest whatsoever in our survival, either.
What this comes down to is a cultural loss of necessary knowledge. We mock people who move to a snowy climate and then end up in the hospital with frostbite. The mockery ignores the fact that they have never seen snow or freezing rain except in a photograph, where it looks "romantic." Same with heat stroke. Same with floods.
We all rely on a deep chain of dependencies just to draw breath every morning, and the chain is broken in spots, breaking in more spots, and is deeply flawed from the get-go because it is riddled with people who don't care.
If you favor less government, then do a deep analysis of your own dependency chains, and then apply the fact that the government cares MORE about you than any other actor in that entire chain. Please note: I'm not saying they care enough, or even very much at all. But they care more than the rest of the actors in that chain.
And that is exactly why we are coming to this point - BECAUSE we didnt treat it as important at the exact time it became obvious - maybe 40-50 years ago? Yup - no hurry.
Speak for yourself. I have known since high school that climate is subject to change. It's been warming for the past 20,000 years! What fool expects that trend to suddenly end? What fool thinks we have the power to control it?
I have also known since first grade that one does not build his home in the sand (or in a tinderbox forest).
There is no hurry if you built your home on bedrock, but if you built your home in the sand, you will in a hurry when your home washes into the sea.
It's not a "we" problem at all, and I should not be paying the bill at all. I'm happy to pay taxes to support roads, bridges, law enforcement and a minimal social safety net. I am not happy paying to replace the home of a fool who has built his home in the sand while really worthy people suffer with inflation, crime and a decline to third world country status we are seeing before our eyes.
Nope - NOT "speaking for myself or me myself & I! The whole "me" attitude is part of why we are in this present "boat". Everyone looking out for No. 1.
And yeah, it is a "we" problem - this planet is all we've got. Whether someone is "worthy" or not.
Prime time for all living things? What is the percentage of species that are now considered extinct because of habitat loss & disease? Not exactly prime time.
There are approximately 8.7 million species on earth.
That gives us a whopping 0.0160% of species which have gone extinct since the year 1500.
The 40% you have cited is probably an estimation of general population decline and not species loss. We are at 40% of the 1970 wild population. That decline in numbers can put a population at greater risk of extinction simply due to the lessening of the numbers of mating pairs, but that is usually made up for in terms of more abundant food for the remaining population. We are not seeing any unusual pattern of extinction however, beyond the historic norm.
That being said, the primary cause of lower population numbers in the wild is the loss of habitat due to cropland expansion. Climate change was once the most predominant cause of extinction, but that was completely natural. The loss of habitat has nothing to do with climate change. It has more to do with the success of humans as a species. We are running out of unexplored frontier and settling in areas where we should not (such as the Forests of California or the beaches worldwide) Beach settlement has probably damaged more species than anything. Whole fisheries are disturbed when we settle coastal areas. Again, nothing to do with climate change.
In a sense, catastrophic climate change as a pseudo-religion is a distraction from the greater cause of environmental damage. There are too many dollars and minds wasted on studying something which has happened for eons regardless of what humans do, and not enough on the real causes.
I hope they don't kick you out. We can always learn. I have been a sceptic for a long time mainly because of how the true believers react to anyone who dares question. And because the UNICCC (?) is solidly behind it. After reading what UNFAO agriculture "experts" write about the livestock industry, I don't believe anything from them anymore. On the other hand, it is hard not to believe when you can look out the window and see that the climate is changing rapidly (yes, it has always been changing but speeded up with industrialization in the past 200 years and especially in the past 50 with increased CO2 and CH4). Even if CO2 is not the problem, cleaning up the environment in general as a result of reducing CO2 cant be a bad thing and I am solidly for that.
Have to admit I read a lot & dont always remember every bit of it. I'm thinking it was 40% or above - a large enough % that its getting scary. Much of the loss of habitat has to do with humans - but much is due to drought & climate change or global warming - whatever phrase floats your boat!
Performative; like multiple Benghazi investigations, like what, 40? 50? going nowhere, certain-to-be-vetoed votes to repeal ACA. Performative is an apt characterization of the clown show of the Republican congressional caucus.
I’m sure it’s merely coincidental that there wasn’t a Republican peep about George Santos’ resumè “embellishments” until after he voted for House speaker 15 times, sitting all alone in the House chamber, treated as if he had leprosy by his fellow Republicans. His crime? Getting caught.
Writing from Woodland, CA, although it would be nice to get rain and snow delivered in a less intense manner, we’ll take whatever we get. Still a VERY long way from breaking the drought.
Nadine, hope you’re all safe. I’m up the hill from you and the intensity of these storms is frightening. Uprooted trees, flooding and mudslides, and more to come. We might find more citizens will agree that Climate Change is real.
Republicans are performing exactly as expected. They will get their key issues out on the table quickly with the main objective to please their base. Regardless of the outcome of their tee-ups, these howler monkeys just want to hear the sound of their own voice.
Not mentioned, but should be is the ultimately stupid move on the part of whomever left classified documents in Biden's office. This action may very likely be the silver platter the GOP were looking for to nullify Trump's responsibility for his theft of documents and crucify Biden. Is it the same thing? Yes and no. Will the GOP have a field day with it? Absolutely. They already are.
The level of explosive this gave the GOP can't even be registered. I rarely say this, but how fucking stupid is the person/people be responsible for this.
It is not the same story as Trump’s. It is important to differentiate between the responses. I have not heard Biden refusing to return the documents as Trump did. Biden is President and Trump was not. The news as presented continues to be sensationalism and contributes to the chaos. Has the nightly news have no responsibility for the inflammatory presentation of this story? Between bias news and the house republicans we are forced to continue to live in this Trumpism nightmare. So tired and disappointed in the lack of ethics in the news and many of the republicans.
Actually, I watch Morning Joe on weekday mornings, and for the last couple of mornings he has laid out these same differences and more between the two cases. So have several other hosts on MSNBC. I also turn to NPR for in-depth discussion on many stories that TV news either doesn't cover or covers only with sensationalism. Here in Michigan we are also priveliged to have MiBridge or just Bridge Magazine which covers subjects like education, politics, and the environment with long, well researched articles that pertain to the State.
How has Fox covered it, though? On a somewhat side note, WaPo has been paying good attention to the right-wing takeover (known as the Ottawa Impact crowd of anti-maskers, Christian nationalists, fearmongers of CRT, etc.) of the Ottawa County commission in West Michigan...and so has the state's attorney-general...because decisions were made in secret, people were fired without cause, the DEI office was shuttered, and a completely unqualified person is being pushed to run the county health department. People are rising up in protest--within a couple days, 2,500 signed on to a new group called Ottawa Object. We'll see what happens.
Honestly, I don't care how Fox covers it. They do this with everything, including Obama's tan suit. Yes, it's all the same with them.
The thing this past election taught me (as in the red wave that wasn't) is that most Americans can see through the nonsense. The reactions of Trump vs. Biden speak volumes. Biden's team reports the problem. Biden says he is surprised, and I don't find that hard to believe because it's pretty clear he believes in the rule of law. Meanwhile, Trump was calling them his docs and saying he declassified everything, basically attempting to assert control and showing his all-too-evident contempt for the rule of law and any power over him. So whatever nonsense Fox and Graham, etc., spew to those deluded souls on the far right, I just don't think most Americans buy it.
I hope that's true. I just know too many people who only get their "news" from Fox or from other conspiracy-believers who still believe tfg walks on water and is persecuted by the woke liberals.
I have extended family like that, and I get it. So I'm not sure if those deluded Fox addicts are reachable. If we brought back an improved version of the fairness doctrine and at least taught the next generation to spot misinformation as they do in Finland, but those are probably pipe dreams (at least for the next 2 years anyway). Maybe enlightened states and localities can help some in the meantime. But then there is Florida, so... I haven't given up, but I do have more faith in the majority (slim majority that it is though) to see through the b*s*.
Fox News anchor Martha MacCallum asked Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-SC) a question on Wednesday that the South Carolina Republican couldn’t manage to answer.
Thank you Susan, I stopped listening to TV news in October because they always leave out important information and concentrate on the dumbest of their audience who crave sesationalism.
Your comment is basically true. Maybe that is why news outlets like NPR and Bridge Magazine carry more balanced and original stories. They are in the first case largely and in the second case entirely directly from their audience.
Susan, but it is the same to the GOP. All they had to hear were the words " classified documents were found in an office Biden used."
The optics are horrible. They are particularly bad if you don't want to wait for it to be sorted out for facts.
I was listening to NPR last night and someone commented that the GOP are acting the same way the Democrats acted when documents were discovered that Trump had.
I had to take a step back. We did. We immediately convicted Trump of treason, obstruction, selling the documents +++++ before we knew what one paper was that he had.
I disagree; the "conviction" occurred only after the FBI had to apply for and be granted a search warrant when they had information that there were still additional documents in fpotus' possession AFTER his attorney had delivered what was sworn to be the last of the documents, with said documents being stored in an "unsecure" manner.
Ally, yes. That the Biden documents were discovered and returned before the archivists knew they were missing is telling. Also, there’s the matter of ignoring subpoenas, which Biden did not do, and which Trump did and will continue to do ‘til his dying day. Now is not the time to jump to false equivalencies, immho.
Ally, though the second it became public knowledge that there were "documents", the Democrats were walking Trump down the plank. Until the FBI made it public, just like now, we didn't know what Trump had. It was arguably worse then we had thought as it was rolled out.
I canceled my attendance a meeting today that has a couple of Trumpers in it. I don't want to hear their bullshit until it's public knowledge what the documents are.
I just had a good conversation with a colleague and asked him why it has taken 6 years and 2 Administrations to "find" these documents. His response was "find" or "planted".
It’s not only the center-right mainstream news that is interested in the two caches of documents (so far) that Biden did not return. It is in fact news, and I’m disappointed that Prof HCR keeps not mentioning it. I greatly admire her, but her uncritical adoration of this President is a weak spot that makes her less credible than she could be on the subject of his administration. To not mention it at all means we don’t even have the benefit of any context she could provide.
Settle down. Read how many documents were involved, and where they were kept. And then consider the President's reaction. The theatrics of the GOP are laughable.
No need to insult people who have a different point of view. I know I don't need to remind you that we're waking up every morning in fear for our democracy and our world thanks to the power of news, social media and gossip.
I read somewhere that it is not uncommon for some documents to go missing. NARA has a process for proper return and in Biden’s case, it was followed
I worked in Automotive Quality Assurance and if I learned only ONE thing in that world, it was “no process EVER goes without some discrepancy ”. Continuous Improvement is always the goal. When you find a problem, you fix it; and then you installed corrective actions that address the root cause. That’s what is happening with the Biden issue. Human errors occur however the BIG difference in Liability cases is the demonstration of Due Care as opposed to Gross Negligence
The discovery of a discrepancy is to be expected. Disappointing, yes; however consider reserving the disgust for Gross Negligent cases, not those where Due Care was in forced but missed
Dave, thank you for your sane and balanced reply, setting forth the perspective of one who has dwelt in the land of quality control. In all areas, it would be (close to) ideal if we were to put in place the best policies and safeguards, and then to correct course when we find failures in the system. Now if politics only worked that way!
Karl Rove, of all people, went on Fox with a whiteboard to explain the difference between a small number of docs left behind by accident and promptly returned, Vs hundreds of docs taken deliberately and then kept kept kept.
I point you to Joyce Vance's article today, differentiating the documents that Trump hid and those Biden immediately gave over to the National Archives.
Honestly, the timing of it all make me suspect a Republican planted those documents first to affect the midterms and second to create a false whataboutism to Trump.
Yup - absolutely a gift to these yahoos. Of course it is not the same - but that doesnt matter - just more blah blah blah - another excuse for what about ism. Honestly, I would have hoped this administration would have been on top of things like that. Even more so after the whole Maralago mess.
I'm telling you, it's a distraction. The President is allowed to take his documents anywhere he needs them. A nothingburger!
The only question is, what are we being distracted from. The total breakdown of the Commercial Air Travel system perhaps? That's pretty serious. Worthy of the usual diversion. Buttigieg needs to go now, if not sooner.
You are overlooking the obvious. The President has every right to handle classified Documents once the people elect him to be Commander in Chief. Even after he leaves office. This is a nothingburger.
Keep in mind that these documents were in Bidens possession when he was Vice President, 2 Administrations ago and not properly returned to the National Archives. That is a fact that can't be denied.
Yes, it is a fact, but these documents were left in a box in a closet in an official government office. Not in a private home, randomly strewn about, in Florida! Huge difference.
Ha, you have fallen for the ploy. The documents were strewn about by the FBI, not Trump. They did that purposefully for dramatic impact, and you fell for it.
The fact is, every president has the right to retain documents which he has read. Once he has read them they are no longer secrets to him. That's why it is allowed. Any good businessman retains records. It would have been odd if he had not retained evidence to support himself, knowing that his enemies would do anything to put him in prison.
Your letter touches on all 3 elements. Extreme weather events (Environment); culture wars without a basis in actual policy debate (Social) and
unevenly applied tax policy /inadequate resources for processing and compliance (Governance). Without actual Governance, it is tough to focus policy on resiliency, adaptability from extreme weather events. I am truly saddened that policy debate is deemed too boring for TV news programming.
Today in the NYT when they discussed The Republican Party turning on Santos, my comment was like most of the others. He is perfectly in keeping with what they stand for. If he has committed a crime charge him, but otherwise, why are they not going after Trump who is the biggest liar of all. They are a bunch of hypocrites. Also, the Republican Party members in Congress need to take a class in government. They seem to think that instead of legislating they are supposed to be in charge of oversight. That is the job of the Justice Department. I am looking at what the Republicans are doing and I feel that we need to be taking to the streets like the women in Iran and the people of China. On January 22, there will be actions organized by The Women's March on the 50th anniversary of Roe v Wade. The National March is on Madison Wisconsin because they will be voting for their Supreme Court on February 21. It is close.
Please join and bring signs for every cause that we need to be supporting right now. Ideally we would be protesting every day, so that the people in government who are misbehaving would get uncomfortable. While the people in Iran and China are getting arrested for protesting and even some are being killed, they also have brought about change because they are relentless. We can peacefully protest and that will let them know that we are not going to just accept their lying, grifting ways as business as usual. That is going on in Germany right now. There are people protesting the plans to dig up of brown coal in Lützerath when coal is supposed to be phased out. That is going on in Vienna right now. There are people protesting the building of a highway into Vienna. In both places they have been setting up camp. The government removed the camps, and the camps come back. In fact, I heard Greta Thunberg is going to be joining the protesters in Germany on Friday. This is our Standing Rock and we need to fight!
Your commentary on which of these deliberately disturbing initiatives are solely performative helps me sleep, at least I hope so as it is now almost 4AM. Unfortunately, writing about these provocative but very dangerous antics must be a terrible drag, and exhausting. I wanted you to know that your sorting through at that level, even briefly, helps this furious woman in Maineville Ohio. A lot.
As a Michigan Native, I just want to let you know that I sent many small donations to Tim Ryan on behalf of sanity. It didn't work out, but I want you to know that if you or anyone you know needs an abortion , fertility treatments or gender affirming care, it is available for you up here in Michigan. Ann Arbor is a good place to look for all of the above. We may be rivals in football, but we are now willing and able to extend the hand of hope to our neighbors. By the way, our Constitutional Amendment also protects other States extradition and prosecution of patients and and anyone else who helps you seek help including the healthcare professionals.
I just re-read my comment and am a little shocked I didn't check what my IA decided I wanted to say. It should say first State Constitution, and second, against other State's...
Thank you for your comment, Louise. There are going to be many in Ohio, including children, who will need to take Michigan up on these heartening offers of help and support. While we're living a nightmare here, Michigan is a beacon of what *can* be.
No, you can exercise philosophy, which is the reasoning power of your mind, without any need for faith, whatever "faith" means. When used to denote a religious belief, "faith" amounts to a suspension of disbelief. The actual meaning of the word "science" is "knowledge". As you say, scientists furnish evidence, that is to say, proof. A good scientist wouldn't say "trust me" - unless they meant "Believe me!" in a colloquial way.
Who says "Trust the science"? Someone who perceives that they are addressing an individual who is contradicting scientific truth, without evidence, and just believing what they choose to believe based on tradition. Take climate change, for example. Scientists have known about climate change for a very long time because they have studied geological history through the evidence of rocks and soil.
Again, science does not require trust, it requires evidence. Scientists, on the other hand, do require trust, and lately some of their methods have come under scrutiny. Such skepticism is welcomed by a true scientist. Challenging a theory is as important as formulating a theory. Scientists like Dr. Fauci, who impedes skepticism, is not practicing the scientific method. He was one who claimed to be the science, and he also repeatedly asked for the public to trust him, without substantiation. He was wrong on many counts.
Evidence supports a theory, it does not "prove" it. New evidence can challenge any theory. Science is a process, not "knowledge" as you seem to want to define it. That is a common error.
I offer you the following article which explains the philosophy of the scientific method.
As I "seem to want to define it"? The word "science" is derived from the Latin "scientia", "knowledge", which in turn derives from the verb "scire". "Scio" = "I know".
Santos cannot use the argument that he was elected by the people therefore he can't be ejected by his fellow politicians. The people voted for the fake person he presented to them. Apparently, the political parties don't do any background checks on their candidates. It's ridiculous that people like Santos can get this far in our government. What the heck is happening in this country?
I think the mainstream media will be only too gleefully covering the antics of the treason party--after all, if it bleeds, it leads--so I applaud your inclination to cover the really meaningful issues for us, Professor.
Absolutely! The clarity of Dr Richardson's view saves us a lot of puzzled frowning.
And a lot of time spent reading meaningless stories in the tabloid media.
I hate seeing the tabloid headlines when I am at the checkout at the grocery store! Tabloids should not be allowed to be placed at those locations. So many believe the headlines and don't read the article.
All of the papers and most broadcast media have become tabloids and your comment about headlines and reading is true across the board. The Enquirer has as much right to be there as USA Today or any other. It's up to us to ignore them and inform ourselves from reliable sources like this one.
True but....so many that can barely read....see those and swear they are the truth. I don't see any so called newspapers by our checkouts!
As checkouts have become more self-checks and floor space more limited, they've become less apparent. If I wanted to buy a paper now I'd go to a drug store or C-store.
"Boy fractures mother's head - burns her body"
That would be the headline for a story of a cremation in some Asian cultures.
Jude I agree that for LFAA readers the antics of Jackass Jordan and other Republican Animal House weasels are reprehensible and deserve the harsh light of investigative reporters.
However, there will be enough fresh elephant shit in the bevy of ‘investigations,’ that much of the media is capable of focusing on the phony flash rather than the cool-headed facts..
My hope is that none of these Animal House ‘shows’ get significant TV coverage and that Democrats on these House committees pursue a Raskin/Cheney pin-in-the-balloon riposte to Republican bull shit.
If only reporters on Capitol Hill would keep their mics away from the animals and focus on real news...and if only talking heads on cable would STOP inviting the animals onto their shows to ruin them. I hope this is not going to be a trend for the next two years.
I am surprised that Professor Richardson chose not to cover the discovery of a second set of confidential documents that were not where they should have been. It’s not an issue, but it’s an “issue”.
It will make not a whit of difference that there are chasms between the Biden case and the Trump one. The results of this are going to be unpleasant.
I suspect that this will be the effective end of the potential for an indictment of Trump. I have no faith in Garland to begin with - he has proved from the start that he is pusillanimous, cloaking weak decisions or non-decisions under the veil of institutionalism. His slowness in the Jan. 6 insurrection cannot be excused on the basis of his patronizing explanation to all of us dweebs out there that investigations are conducted from the “bottom up” does not hold up. Effectively there is now little chance that the top actors in the insurrection will be indicted. Certainly not Trump if he manages to remain engaged in the Presidential race. Time has run out.
And Mark Meadows was not convicted for his uh voting mishap in 2020.
But back to Biden. I believe that there is little likelihood that there is anything at all nefarious in his conduct. Nonetheless the screaming and shouting and posturing from the other side will wipe out anything resembling a distinction between the cases.
One by one I see these cases falling by the wayside. It is a travesty of epic proportions. I am reminded of Anatole France’s bitter epigram:
“The law, in its majestic equality, forbids rich and poor alike to sleep under bridges, to beg in the streets, and to steal loaves of bread.”
I agree. Haters gonna hate. Not to ignore the darkness, but shine a light on the (hopefully) many times decent people with genuine differences in perspective work together for the good of their constituents.
Exactly.
Agree completely! Excellent decision, Professor Richardson
You know why? Because it's easy and finds an eager audience. Reporting about what really matters, as in serious relevant issues, is harder. And so many Americans tune out to it.
Michael Being informed and actually thinking can be exhausting. Sadly most ‘news’ is presented as entertainment rather than enlightenment. I find, increasingly among younger folk, scant knowledge about complex issues that I consider important to our country’s future. AWWWK!
The LCD rules. Plenty of news about the latest celebrity baby bump - enjoy reading all about it while you stand in the queue with your groceries.
Not just Americans - it's the same in every country.
My thought, precisely. The MSM is as radical and performative as the GOP. Thank you, Dr. Richardson for your clarity and professionalism.
Not sure..MSN?
Main Stream Media. Not all of it, just the ones who get on everybody's nerves. I have a thing about headlines that don't reflect the actual content of a story.
Not sure..MSN?
If it smells it sells...
Ryan If it shits, it fits [Fox News]
It's just been so frustrating and disappointing that there never seems to be consequences for all the lying, cheating, stealing, and overall corruption in the Republican governing body and so it just continues while we patiently wait for justice to prevail.
It's a lot easier to teach kindergarten than govern badly educated adults.
Oddly, in any adult-supervised children's activity I experienced as a child and a parent, there is a consistent premium placed on teaching and maintaining even-handed, civil behavior; which. as a community standard, is relaxed considerably when those children become adults, and all but abandoned entirely if they go into politics.
Ego forgets integrity.
And why...? How does that happen,? In three words or less, please. I wonder how is it assumed that just because a human has survived to become a politician, it can create it's own rules or have no rules?
Absolute power corrupts absolutely.
The heady life of being in one of the most powerful positions in the land is beguiling and corrupting to many. It also has to do with the kind of person who seeks this office, since a campaign usually devolves into a popularity contest.
"Nip the shoots of arbitrary power in the bud, is the only maxim which can ever preserve the liberties of any people." -John Adams
Huh. My great, great, great, etc. Uncle! If I could travel back in time, I'd like to meet him and Abigail.
TORTUOUS HUMANITY.
Lack of integrity.
Only when We the People become fools.
How do they come to trade the fiddle for the drum?
Got it. https://youtu.be/u6z79WMOPtk
Is this from a song?
Or perhaps a poem?
No consequences? Which party controls the White House and the Senate? Which party was much more successful in the mid-term election than predicted? Which party gained more governorships in 2022? Which party flipped several state legislative houses? Which party has won three of the last four presidential elections, and won the popular vote in all four? Hint: It wasn’t the Republicans.
Even since the media flipped in the Reagan Era (they pursued Nixon but could not stop loving Reagan) Democrats as a party have been shy of holding Republicans accountable. The more they get away with, the worse the become. The Jan 6th committee broke the ice, but We the People must pick up the slack.
“In this age, in this country, public sentiment is everything. With it, nothing can fail; against it, nothing can succeed. Whoever molds public sentiment goes deeper than he who enacts statutes, or pronounces judicial decisions.” - Lincoln
True. But I want more!We need it all to be able to get things really going and not have to deal with all these delays .
I agree with you! If there are NO consequences for all of this, are we still a country of law? Aparently not.
We are and are not.
"Accustomed to trample on the rights of those around you, you have lost the genius of your own independence, and become the fit subjects of the first cunning tyrant who rises."
- Lincoln
Therein lies the problem, "while we patiently wait for justice to prevail." We can't wait. We have to actively pursue justice, every one of us who cares. Write letters. Bend ears. Demand (positive) action.
And the radical regressives can cause a lot of damage in two years.
Unfortunately Yes!
It was difficult for me to get through this excellent Letter because my mind had a dangerously high temperature. That HCR suspects she will not always report on the extremely destructive Republican party is a fine idea. In addition to focusing on Climate Change/Catastrophe, the health of the American people demands attention. Drug addiction, alcoholism, obesity--mortality rates; gun violence; mental health issues; our children's health, education and welfare require sustained reporting and treatment. What a picture we are -- in the wealthiest country on earth! That so many of our elected officials are unfit, traitors of democracy and party to America's unwellness is the investigative reporting that will wise up Americans to who is doing what to whom.
If we care about democracy, we will work toward an informed citizenry.
Fern, you write the truth. “In addition to focusing on Climate Change/Catastrophe, the health of the American people demands attention.” The fact that there is so much to care about, to pay attention to, to change, is overwhelming. And discouraging. I worry there is so much that is negative and dependent on a corrupt political party, that people may turn off and not work for change. But I’m part of the citizenry, like you and others we know, that continue to keep on keeping on.
Yes, Irenie we continue and continue. Our spirits demand that we keep working for democracy and love for one another supports our strength.
Right on
And also the pernicious and corrupt excessive influence money on American political outcomes that is hiding in plain sight. How is it not anti-democratic and corrupt? It's the one ring to rule them all, that imminent climate emergency included. So many fires in need a brigade.
Informed citizenry, yes! As a person who is working to get LWV forums for municipal elections launched I totally agree. I find the public ignores the importance of municipal elections, even though those candidates make huge decisions for the daily life of the citizens and then often run for State Rep and up. There was a time, I too focused on only national not local politics. But all governing begins as home. I am constantly, and often unsuccessfully, (‘too busy, let young people do it now, maaaaybe, I’m not interested, I hate politics, oh no too depressing etc’) recruiting to find help in developing forums. There’s a lot of work to creating forums, much behind the scenes.
I don't have an answer, but we need somehow to find a way to broaden and deepen the national conversation. What is democracy without conversation. Self-governance means we share the collective burden of national, and even world outcomes, as well as of making wise choices in our personal dealings. Our edge as a species has in large part to do with our pooled observations, creations, and skills. Our folly is when we act without sufficient consideration.
Dr. Cox-Richardson helps us keep the big picture in mind while we take seemingly small actions. Focus on what you're good at, and apply your energies/money there. It is easy to become overwhelmed. Greta Thunberg, for example, would make an excellent spokesperson for people on the spectrum, but focuses on climate change.
Me, vaccines are my thing, though I remain aware of all the other issues. Find your superpower, find your voice, find your people. There are enough of us to attend to all that needs attending to. We are 2/3 of the country with 3/4+ of the wealth, after all.
I too have difficulty focusing on the unfolding disaster in the House.
I think the performative assignment by HCR is accompanied by the lack of experienced and capable leadership in the Republican Party.
We are mostly a group focused on the significant current events as details of History. So in perspective the House Republican first passages of the two laws are clearly little more than sign waving. We could have two years of this meaningless action.
It’s my sincere hope that responsible Americans will perceive the danger of this playpen politics and snuff the cranks out of office in 2024. Returning the Public Good as a reason for Government would be a good start.
Playpen politics! I'm gonna adopt that term!
Agree with Barbara S below, "Playpen politics"---that sizzles!
I'd like to see Biden use that term, it is perfectly descriptive and would make a great sound bite, and sadly, the MAGA crowd can only focus on sound bites.
The January 6th Committee was an example of accountability done right, though not the only one. Despots always feature show trials. We need to find ways to encourage and reward those grappling with adult problems with their adult hats on (as Greta Thunberg has). Gracefully and cleverly (as in skilled prosecutor clever) show off GOP narcissistic snots for what they are.
Yes, so many things to address and what do they do first...besides removing the metal detectors. They try to undo the upgrades to the IRS and two abortion bills plus a committee chaired by screaming Gym to investigate federal LE agencies basically. And of course they are in a huff about the found classified docs recently found and turned over immediately to the National Archives. We were treated to that fat pig Graham calling for a special prosecutor. Muted him of course, but still his ugly pompous face. And oh yes, the impeachment of the homeland security secretary. Heather is right; they will be sucking the air out of the room where we all should be tending to the immense problems we face. As an alternative of what pols can do: the new Oregon D governor signed three executive orders her first full day in office including one that declares homelessness an emergency. One had to do with housing. Of course, the critics came out of the woodwork because the streets were not immediately free of tents and trash. She has made a start and made clear her priorities which is necessary when we have a new administration.
Amen to that, Fern. And the older I become, the more I've come to believe that education needs to shine a light on understanding the difference between wants and needs. Probably overly simplistic but the best I have to offer right now. My optimism is overshadowed today by too many Americans chanting "Gimme, gimme, gimme."
Our capitalist system breeds this, as it can only keep on chugging along, as long as people keep clamoring for things and stuff. Advertising seduces people into thinking they will finally be happy if they buy that thing, or this thing, or go to that place or eat this food. Distracting people with this constant consumption, while the country's rightists leaders work to dismantle the safety net, that can actually provide the foundation for true happiness - through achieving a decent life - keeps the whole system going.
I recently learned that the State of Indiana is going to provide the textbooks and tools for the classrooms in the future; therefore, saving parents the cost of textbooks and they are presenting it as a tax savings to parents. What does that tell us....that they will provide what the Republicans wish to be taught to our Indiana students.
Controlling the education of children is one facet of Fascism.
Developing populations of conforming people was the basis for “One Folk, One Nation, One Führer,” slogan that cemented a generation of people to a deadly ideology.
The current Republican take no prisoners ideology isn’t much different than 1933 Germany.
I agree and can see this. They also want to pour more money into education and make is so everyone can choose where they attend private (with vouchers) or public schools. This is supposed to be a wonderful thing! I would have to vote against it all!
Please, Pat., nothing overshadows your optimism. Let us see it shine.
May Biden's Way win everyone over in 2024!
Excellent comment, Fern!
Yesterday, I littered the comment area with my enthusiastic posts about "Beau of the Fifth Column", here I go again. Today's Letter and your comment exemplifies just why by focusing on the clown car GOP exclusively, we miss a lot of important issues. This clip from a day or two ago covered news I had heard nothing at all about. So glad Beau is posting about the health of Alaska's rivers!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jSYhcvoxEdo
Thank you for posing his videos. He’s really good at parsing what’s happening. I’ve been following his videos for awhile.
Amen, Fern. Beyond the dysfunction, disinformation, and corruption of the Repub. party, we need to get the broader view of health issues in our country. Those issues you've mentioned are critically important to the well-being of individuals and the country. We can't depend on MSM to provide attention to these health issues when they focus principally on two political parties tossing charges back and forth endlessly. MSM and their reporters/broadcasters should be held to account for the truth of every charge they make. Then, we could have a national credibility rating for everyone providing news to us.
Sometimes I think we should start a national restructuring by having a referendum on issues important to the American people. We could start with a list of 25 or more issues and have each American list those issues in the order of importance to them. That might at least serve as a starting point to get us back on track. Prioritizing issues and then educating people about them is critically important.
When I saw your 'like' Heydon, I hoped we would make contact. I think our biggest communications problems in the US are the disappearance of newspapers (with the journalistic foundation) particularly, regionally and locally and social media. The economic models used in the past are impossible. There are modern/technological means to address this. A vibrant and easily accessible free-press is an absolute necessity for democracy. Regulating social media is also an absolute necessity. As a people we need to mobilize and organize to address government and lobby the ultra-rich who have demonstrated their advocacy on behalf of democratic principles to begin rebuilding the free-press.
Mobilizing/Organizing the American people is the overall BIG PROBLEM we have in keeping what is left of our democracy and strengthening it.
That is the problem we must solve.
I agree, Fern. The challenge of mobilizing/organizing the American people is critically important. There has to be a unifying force or principle to begin that process. It seems to me that we could start a reorganization based around the lowest common denominators all people--in this case, all Americans--face in dealing with daily life (e.g., the need for healthy food, clean air, clean water, et al). Personally, I find that talking with individuals one-on-one in a civilized manner has been most effective; the give and take, the sharing of ideas. I also believe that trusted journalists are imperative in spreading the word. MSM is out; they just want a pretty face to read provided news reports. And the pretty faces want a lucrative contract to fill that slot. Those readers do not demonstrate any allegiance to truth. I depend on people like Matt Taibbi and others on excellent podcasts (e.g., on Youtube) to be honest and informed and don't hesitate to tell the full truth of issues they report on.
Dear Fern,
I've noticed a lot of new letters being written through Substack lately, including this one. It might be fun for you to start your own focusing on ClimateChange/Catastrophe and the health of the American people. I'd be first in line to read what you have to say about it. Your contributions to HCR's Letters from an American are always so intelligent and well written... go for it!
Gayle, your compliment was as sweet as maple syrup. Thank you. While reading your words, I thought of HCR and what I learn from her, In addition to the history of the US , it is her concentration, perceptions, calm, kindness, clarity and steady commitment that stir me. To have formed a community, united in strong advocacy of democracy, learning, caring, listening and sharing this is the ground I gratefully inhabit.
Me too! Perfectly said.
❗️ ❗️ ❗️
Keeping in mind that "informed citizenry" does not necessarily mean agreeing with us - but people who can bring various perspectives to the table and discuss without resorting to name-calling and relying on demonstrable untruths. (Sometimes some of us need to think a little harder about what we believe and why- and leave the epithets aside.)
I agree. We need to have all people--perhaps at community gatherings--discuss the important issues in a respectful manner. People choosing to be involved in such meetings should be instructed to leave their political parties and prejudices at the door.
AMEN!!
So Republican officials in New York’s Nassau County think "...there is a part of our public that is cynical about politicians and public officials.” I wonder where they got that idea?
Yes, swimming here in Northern California, but the mushrooms are everywhere, and waterfalls I haven't seen in years. It was supposed to be another dry winter (we don't normally get any summer rain), but most of us wished for more rain.... If only it will pack the mountains with snow and also fill the man made reservoirs.
How about some great news from California? Katie Porter, USRep from Orange County has declared her candidacy for Senator in 2024! Follow Nancy's lead, Dianne.
My heart skipped a beat when I saw Katie Porter is running for the Senate. She is phenomenal. I have sent her donations, though I am not a Californian. Thanks for the uplifting comment.
To my California/Pacific Northwest Friends: Wishing you better days sooner rather than later.
Thank you, we can use all the good wishes we can get.
Lynell, I was thinking the same thing as you. Over the past year or so, reading their posts that share a bit of their personal lives, I've come to know and think of those folks as friends/family. When one (of the many, sadly) mass shootings occurred last year, in a town halfway across the country from me where a lifelong friend retired, I thought........uh oh?
This friend lives so close to where a mass shooting occurred that the flashing lights and the sirens drew her to her window. When something in the news happens to an area, I think "how is (insert LFAA forum friend) doing?"
Same here, Miselle.
Agree, Miselle. Another benefit to being a member of the LFAA community!
Good morning, and thank you. So far, Oregon is doing fairly well (it appears that California is bearing the brunt of what we occasionally get. We have not had an "average" rainfall year in the mid-Willamette Valley in at least a decade.
So that old adage says it best: Hope for the best; Expect the worst; and take what comes...morning, Ally!
Man, and I thought the winter of 1969 in San Francisco was bad.
And LA's doing a pretty good job getting soaked. I may even have my lawn back. :-)
Imagine what this is going to look to historians, 20 years from now, as the climate breakdown has continued its inexorable devastation? Will they see the fascist puppet show dancing in our digital proscenium as a diabolical diversion to the nation’s attention to the real threat, or perhaps as a welcome diversion that we wanted to shield our inaction in dealing with the fossil fuel oligarchs?
The internet projects forecasts of over a billion “climate refugees” by then, but every climate breakdown forecast has been an under-estimation. and quietly re-upped without discussion. Will we be seen as betrayed by our science almost as much as our oligarchs…?
Jeff,
it is very possible that in 20 years there will be no historians if the Republicans get their way.
Just a bunch of propaganda pushed out like in Russia and China.
So, nobody will know the truth because the truth will not be available to discern.
Like it is for HALF of America already.
What an odd question. We will be seen as being betrayed by those of us who willfully ignored the conclusions suggested by the best data available at the time, and refused to make obvious changes in policy because those voluntary changes were expensive and disruptive. The changes we all will deal with as a result of the refusal of corporate entities to change course earlier will be far more disruptive, and far more costly. Why would you try to blame “science” for the refusal to be proactive?
Thank you Meredith, for this well; considered reply. You are exactly right. Science is only as good as the current understanding and data allow. That is the beauty of it. Scientists are usually open to new findings as better instrumentation and data become available. No real scientist believes that understanding remains "true and constant", otherwise it wouldn't be science, it would be faith based religion.
The ‘new findings’ and ‘better instrumentation’ is exemplified in the immediate successes of the Webb Telescope and the data it has produced. Although Hubble answered many important questions, it opened up many more lines of inquiry now being explored by Webb.
Indeed
Hi, Fay, thanks. I agree, scientific questioning and experimentation requires a mindset very different from finding and then clinging to any immutable truth on the basis of faith.
That pretty much sums up the current state of climatology. Al Gore proclaimed "debate over" and turned the issue into a religion.
Who told you that, Carlson or Hannity?
Neither were around when Gore proclaimed himself to be "the science". I have decades of research behind me. How about you?
Meredith, methinks our failings lie not in our science but in our forced ignorance of where people get their money. Those who have resisted the necessary changes to avert climate change have generally done so because of the difficulty of giving up on a way of making a living, whether it be the politicians or us regular folk. What will lure those of us addicted to easy fun and convenience on our motor boats, enormous pick-up trucks, SUVs, performance cars, gas & oil furnaces, snowmobiles, 4-wheelers, etc. to give them up for sailboats, canoes & kayaks, bicycles, e-bikes, & mountain bikes, geothermal & solar heat and even cross-country skis for those fortunate enough to still have snow? Even less accessible to change will be the people who make their livings from manufacturing, selling and servicing all these climate-altering devices. And yet, that is what we must be seeking if we want any chance at averting the climate catastrophes inexorably rolling our way.
Where do climatologists get their money?
What purpose does climatology have other than to instill fear and promote global taxes on energy? There may be other uses, but none that would support a massive amount of research. We are wasting money and brain power seeking proof of a religious belief.
Troll alert above. Reported to Substack Inc, SF CA., including the attorneys for CEO Christopher Best's operation.. Substack Ic is literally literary around the corner from old law firm address. One source says Best does have "content management" employees. Christopher ... HEY CHRIS! have the Dept Head respond.
Thanks. I hate it when people feed Golum.
Your hatred of the opinions of others is yours alone to examine.
Bryan,
That's funny. I'd like to see what you cite as a reason for reporting me as a troll. I'll bet they think you are a troll bothering them emotional appeals to anti-science.
Science is a practice. As a practice and not a person, it does not care about anything, least of all your political biases.
James Hansen wrote in 2003 that the last time that much carbon was in the atmosphere, the oceans were 80 feet higher. But most of the other scientists at the time kept forecasting a 10-inch rise by 2100.
Florida soil is mostly composed of calcium carbonates, which are the shells of invertebrates. The panhandle was under several meters of water at one time. So how is this sea level rise supposed to be something out of the ordinary? Sea levels have risen 120 meters in the past 20,000 years, as glaciers receded and the planet warmed. Please describe what is out of the ordinary?
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Calcareous
The Republicans are merely following in Emperor Nero's footsteps: bread and circuses.....
TC, may your grass always be green - and remain in place.
I actually Laughed Out Loud at that. I am the world's worst gardener and lawn administrator.
This is going to sound snarky, but I truly don't mean it that way. Why do you even have a lawn? When I was a kid in the 1950s, my grandmother in Santa Barbara had rock and cactus landscaping around her house -- no water needed. I thought it was enchanting.
Because it's a rental and the landlady hasn't authorized going to a seroscape.
Not as bad as 1862 or 1896 ... yet.
I've got a friend who has shown me some of the info on the flood in 1862; pretty incredible.
So, not unprecedented, right?
And I have had the sprinklers turned off for three weeks!
Me too. The DWP ain't running me into bankruptcy yet. :-)
"The warming climate is intensifying both droughts—which feed fires—and storms like those currently creating such destruction. "
Not to mention that: In Rochester, NY where the historical average snowfall per year was 140 inches per year when I arrived in 1987 and by the end of December all of the Finger Lakes were frozen over, today Rochester has received around 2" of snowfall so far, profoundly under normal, and not a single Finger Lake has ice on it.
Ask any ice fisherman if climate change is real and you will hear an hour of stories about how it used to be but now it is not.
Last but not least, the spring feeding my pond dried up in August. It remains dry at this time, a historic observation since normally there is a full creek running away from it this time of year.
Bad things are happening and we, right here in America, are going to run out of water. And? I am living in an area that once was awash in water.
In the meantime, Republicans are making sure the big donors can add more damage to the climate.
The warm temperatures we are experiencing in WNY this winter will have dire consequences this summer as well. Two summers ago, gypsy moths defoliated thousands of acres of forest land AND backyard trees—the result of the preceding relatively warm winter. The scene was unsightly: our house, garage and even autos were covered by the dark brown caterpillars inching their way to the trees they eventually devoured one leaf at a time. In Naples, NY, entire hillsides were bare as a result. Fortunately, most trees recovered by the end of the summer, but repeated gypsy moth plagues will be hard to tolerate by our region’s forests. Our entire ecosystem will be affected!
https://www.democratandchronicle.com/story/news/2020/07/13/gypsy-moth-damage-swells-across-central-western-ny/5426340002/
I can't ❤️ this statement. I had just moved to Eugene when we had our gypsy moth infestation; the area where I currently live had the highest percentage of moths trapped (I moved here 8 years after the infestation, and all signs were gone by then). It took quite an effort but was ultimately successful.
Glad the Eugene experience was positive. As the article I cited indicates, however, “[h]ardwood trees (oaks, maples, hickories, etc.) may be able to survive two or more years of defoliation, if they are in good health to begin with,” Welser said. “Evergreens, on the other hand, are likely to die after one year of defoliation.”
We had to cut 16 pine trees in our property last fall.
What was most at risk here were pines and fir, with a little bit of oak thrown in. That the oak and fir forest on the ridge behind my house was saved is short of amazing. (Hawkins Heights if your "OR" includes any knowledge of Eugene). My former home was about a mile east and north; we were not inundated, and no moths were trapped in our area.
And then there are the ticks & Lyme Disease - My son was diagnosed with it several years ago & treated for it - in PA! The test in NYS was negative before that. My dog, Suzy, (before Axel) was diagnosed for it - missed her flea treatment when we had a warm November 3 years ago. I know of one man who was mis-diagnosed for too long before he too went to a dr in PA. He is now in a wheelchair. And then there was (and IS) Covid!
But hey - climate change? Nah.....
20,000 years ago New York City was under several hundred meters of ice. It has taken 20,000 years for the last major glaciation to recede. This warming phase did not begin with the discovery of fossil fuel, but it did lead to the most survivable climate that humans have seen in over 200,000 years. Climatically speaking, we are living in prime time for all living things. Your fears stem from a religious fervor of disbelief.
Climate change is indeed real, and many civilizations have perished when they were not prepared for it. The ones who survived migrated to greener pastures.
As my science teacher said so memorably: "Species will adapt, migrate or die."
Long past time for us to have begun our strategic withdrawal from obviously doomed areas. NYC, Boston, Miami are all built on reclaimed land that is in the process of being reclaimed by water. Skyscrapers on mud. Stupid humans wallowing their current wealth and luxury condemning their descendants to disaster and avoidable expense.
Exactly, but today people talk out of both sides of their mouths. Democrats say "Trust the Science" until it becomes inconvenient for their current crises. Then they break out the violins, shed a phony tear and proclaim "what about the children?". It's all an act repeated so often that anyone can see it coming from a mile away.
At the current rate of rise, The buildings in NYC can be adapted. Many already have basements below sea level. In a century the water will still not be in the streets. If a barnacle can keep up with sea level rise, surely we can. LOL.
As for homes, most are not built to last a century. Plenty of time for "the children" to grow up and build their own homes on solid ground.
People treating this as an immediate crisis are ignorant of timescales.
I think we agree in the grand scheme of time and history. But "Shirley, you jest!" when you say it is not an immediate crisis. It has been an immediate crisis for decades.
My point is that we should be adapting before major population centers are unlivable. Miami is already coming close to ridiculous. Boston floods regularly. The Florida Keys will be an underwater theme park any day now.
And the homes built within fire prone wooded areas or perched near beaches or on hillsides begging for a mudslide? Rebuilding in flood plains along rivers like the Mississippi? We insure these places? Irresponsible insanity.
To debate the causes of a changing climate is a hobby. To not react to and plan for the future based on observable trends and historical facts is just selfish - it says we don't give a shit about our kids or their kids. Let alone the wasted money developing where development is just stupid.
If it is a crisis then it's a crisis of Government making. One more reason we need less, not more government.
All of the things you cited are not things you and I are doing. I don't live on the beach or in a flood/fire prone area. I do insure many of them indirectly via Federal Flood insurance. That should cease immediately. Most of the people living on the beach are wealthy and can afford to rebuild. If they are not they do not belong there. In New Orleans, once again, Federal loans and insurance allowed poor folks to build below sea level. If there is any action needed by Government, it is mostly inaction in the way of not insuring people (on my dime) to make such poor moves.
Again, "fixing" climate change is lunacy. Adapting is not. Climate has been changing since the planet has had an atmosphere, and those who are not prepared deserve what they get.
Ellen DeGeneres was on youtube crying about the swollen creek near her house and saying that "we need to do something about this". I did not build my house next to a creek with huge boulders which were obviously carried there by moving water, she did. She has no right to blame me for her own stupidity. Sadly, our government is just as stupid. Anything the screaming folks like Ellen ask, they make it a point to build a bureaucracy around. Stopping this budgetary madness will leave more room for the good social programs that actually help people in direst need.
I completely agree. The government needs to change its "flood insurance" protection to a one time buy out for folks who would qualify - that is: assets and income below a certain number. There are "working poor" who need a hand relocating. If they refuse the buy out, just say good bye, good luck and I'll see you on another planet.
As to those who are affluent and live in stupid dangerous places, no sympathy from me.
As to the size of the government...I will poke the bear. The problem with the government is that it is too small and vastly underfunded. There is $100 trillion in the hands of a handful of people. It needs to be clawed back and applied to universal health care and true universal education.
That would be a just society for ALL - not just those who have inherited their privilege.
Despite what Ronnie Raygun said, the government is not the problem. The Oligarchs who hog the national treasure are the problem. The people who MAKE MONEY off of illness are the problem.
Taxes, taxes and more taxes on the rabidly rich would be justice and a true democracy - not one that just serves the elite whites.
I don't disagree with you, but you're missing a really big piece of the picture, and that is the fact that a) almost no one's "livelihood" -- the thing they are expected to know and be good at -- has anything at all to do with survival, and b) the people who put a full plate of food in front of us (or build a house for us to shelter in) have no interest whatsoever in our survival, either.
What this comes down to is a cultural loss of necessary knowledge. We mock people who move to a snowy climate and then end up in the hospital with frostbite. The mockery ignores the fact that they have never seen snow or freezing rain except in a photograph, where it looks "romantic." Same with heat stroke. Same with floods.
We all rely on a deep chain of dependencies just to draw breath every morning, and the chain is broken in spots, breaking in more spots, and is deeply flawed from the get-go because it is riddled with people who don't care.
If you favor less government, then do a deep analysis of your own dependency chains, and then apply the fact that the government cares MORE about you than any other actor in that entire chain. Please note: I'm not saying they care enough, or even very much at all. But they care more than the rest of the actors in that chain.
And that is exactly why we are coming to this point - BECAUSE we didnt treat it as important at the exact time it became obvious - maybe 40-50 years ago? Yup - no hurry.
Speak for yourself. I have known since high school that climate is subject to change. It's been warming for the past 20,000 years! What fool expects that trend to suddenly end? What fool thinks we have the power to control it?
I have also known since first grade that one does not build his home in the sand (or in a tinderbox forest).
There is no hurry if you built your home on bedrock, but if you built your home in the sand, you will in a hurry when your home washes into the sea.
It's not a "we" problem at all, and I should not be paying the bill at all. I'm happy to pay taxes to support roads, bridges, law enforcement and a minimal social safety net. I am not happy paying to replace the home of a fool who has built his home in the sand while really worthy people suffer with inflation, crime and a decline to third world country status we are seeing before our eyes.
Nope - NOT "speaking for myself or me myself & I! The whole "me" attitude is part of why we are in this present "boat". Everyone looking out for No. 1.
And yeah, it is a "we" problem - this planet is all we've got. Whether someone is "worthy" or not.
Prime time for all living things? What is the percentage of species that are now considered extinct because of habitat loss & disease? Not exactly prime time.
922 Species of animals and plants have become extinct since the year 1500.
https://ourworldindata.org/grapher/extinct-species-since-1500?tab=table&country=Amphibians~Birds~Mammals~Fishes~Reptiles~Crustaceans~Molluscs~Plants
There are approximately 8.7 million species on earth.
That gives us a whopping 0.0160% of species which have gone extinct since the year 1500.
The 40% you have cited is probably an estimation of general population decline and not species loss. We are at 40% of the 1970 wild population. That decline in numbers can put a population at greater risk of extinction simply due to the lessening of the numbers of mating pairs, but that is usually made up for in terms of more abundant food for the remaining population. We are not seeing any unusual pattern of extinction however, beyond the historic norm.
https://ourworldindata.org/grapher/global-living-planet-index
That being said, the primary cause of lower population numbers in the wild is the loss of habitat due to cropland expansion. Climate change was once the most predominant cause of extinction, but that was completely natural. The loss of habitat has nothing to do with climate change. It has more to do with the success of humans as a species. We are running out of unexplored frontier and settling in areas where we should not (such as the Forests of California or the beaches worldwide) Beach settlement has probably damaged more species than anything. Whole fisheries are disturbed when we settle coastal areas. Again, nothing to do with climate change.
In a sense, catastrophic climate change as a pseudo-religion is a distraction from the greater cause of environmental damage. There are too many dollars and minds wasted on studying something which has happened for eons regardless of what humans do, and not enough on the real causes.
I hope they don't kick you out. We can always learn. I have been a sceptic for a long time mainly because of how the true believers react to anyone who dares question. And because the UNICCC (?) is solidly behind it. After reading what UNFAO agriculture "experts" write about the livestock industry, I don't believe anything from them anymore. On the other hand, it is hard not to believe when you can look out the window and see that the climate is changing rapidly (yes, it has always been changing but speeded up with industrialization in the past 200 years and especially in the past 50 with increased CO2 and CH4). Even if CO2 is not the problem, cleaning up the environment in general as a result of reducing CO2 cant be a bad thing and I am solidly for that.
Do tell Maggie. What percentage?
Have to admit I read a lot & dont always remember every bit of it. I'm thinking it was 40% or above - a large enough % that its getting scary. Much of the loss of habitat has to do with humans - but much is due to drought & climate change or global warming - whatever phrase floats your boat!
Performative; like multiple Benghazi investigations, like what, 40? 50? going nowhere, certain-to-be-vetoed votes to repeal ACA. Performative is an apt characterization of the clown show of the Republican congressional caucus.
I’m sure it’s merely coincidental that there wasn’t a Republican peep about George Santos’ resumè “embellishments” until after he voted for House speaker 15 times, sitting all alone in the House chamber, treated as if he had leprosy by his fellow Republicans. His crime? Getting caught.
Ralph, you nailed it. Santos' only crime was getting caught, not lying.
Writing from Woodland, CA, although it would be nice to get rain and snow delivered in a less intense manner, we’ll take whatever we get. Still a VERY long way from breaking the drought.
Nadine, hope you’re all safe. I’m up the hill from you and the intensity of these storms is frightening. Uprooted trees, flooding and mudslides, and more to come. We might find more citizens will agree that Climate Change is real.
This pretty planet
Spinning through space
You're a garden, you're a harbour
You're a holy place
Golden sun going down
Gentle blue giant spin us around
All through the night
Safe 'til the morning light
-Tom Chapin
Worth defending.
Tom Chapin!!!! Loved his music when our kids were small-still do!!
Thank you Heather.
Republicans are performing exactly as expected. They will get their key issues out on the table quickly with the main objective to please their base. Regardless of the outcome of their tee-ups, these howler monkeys just want to hear the sound of their own voice.
Not mentioned, but should be is the ultimately stupid move on the part of whomever left classified documents in Biden's office. This action may very likely be the silver platter the GOP were looking for to nullify Trump's responsibility for his theft of documents and crucify Biden. Is it the same thing? Yes and no. Will the GOP have a field day with it? Absolutely. They already are.
The level of explosive this gave the GOP can't even be registered. I rarely say this, but how fucking stupid is the person/people be responsible for this.
Disappointed and disgusted.
Be safe. Be well.
It is not the same story as Trump’s. It is important to differentiate between the responses. I have not heard Biden refusing to return the documents as Trump did. Biden is President and Trump was not. The news as presented continues to be sensationalism and contributes to the chaos. Has the nightly news have no responsibility for the inflammatory presentation of this story? Between bias news and the house republicans we are forced to continue to live in this Trumpism nightmare. So tired and disappointed in the lack of ethics in the news and many of the republicans.
Actually, I watch Morning Joe on weekday mornings, and for the last couple of mornings he has laid out these same differences and more between the two cases. So have several other hosts on MSNBC. I also turn to NPR for in-depth discussion on many stories that TV news either doesn't cover or covers only with sensationalism. Here in Michigan we are also priveliged to have MiBridge or just Bridge Magazine which covers subjects like education, politics, and the environment with long, well researched articles that pertain to the State.
How has Fox covered it, though? On a somewhat side note, WaPo has been paying good attention to the right-wing takeover (known as the Ottawa Impact crowd of anti-maskers, Christian nationalists, fearmongers of CRT, etc.) of the Ottawa County commission in West Michigan...and so has the state's attorney-general...because decisions were made in secret, people were fired without cause, the DEI office was shuttered, and a completely unqualified person is being pushed to run the county health department. People are rising up in protest--within a couple days, 2,500 signed on to a new group called Ottawa Object. We'll see what happens.
Honestly, I don't care how Fox covers it. They do this with everything, including Obama's tan suit. Yes, it's all the same with them.
The thing this past election taught me (as in the red wave that wasn't) is that most Americans can see through the nonsense. The reactions of Trump vs. Biden speak volumes. Biden's team reports the problem. Biden says he is surprised, and I don't find that hard to believe because it's pretty clear he believes in the rule of law. Meanwhile, Trump was calling them his docs and saying he declassified everything, basically attempting to assert control and showing his all-too-evident contempt for the rule of law and any power over him. So whatever nonsense Fox and Graham, etc., spew to those deluded souls on the far right, I just don't think most Americans buy it.
I hope that's true. I just know too many people who only get their "news" from Fox or from other conspiracy-believers who still believe tfg walks on water and is persecuted by the woke liberals.
I have extended family like that, and I get it. So I'm not sure if those deluded Fox addicts are reachable. If we brought back an improved version of the fairness doctrine and at least taught the next generation to spot misinformation as they do in Finland, but those are probably pipe dreams (at least for the next 2 years anyway). Maybe enlightened states and localities can help some in the meantime. But then there is Florida, so... I haven't given up, but I do have more faith in the majority (slim majority that it is though) to see through the b*s*.
Ann Weller "How has Fox covered it, though?"
Fox News anchor Martha MacCallum asked Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-SC) a question on Wednesday that the South Carolina Republican couldn’t manage to answer.
https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/politics/lindsey-graham-stumbles-when-pushed-by-fox-news-anchor-to-address-differences-in-biden-v-trump-classified-docs-situation/ar-AA16ezuP?ocid=msedgntp&cvid=201a4b4bd1504ea3bb9698fa7d5f0d79
Graham twists himself into pretzel knots trying to answer, or not answer, questions involving tfg.
Thank you Susan, I stopped listening to TV news in October because they always leave out important information and concentrate on the dumbest of their audience who crave sesationalism.
Are you just figuring out the truth about half truth?
The Nightly News works only for their stockholders
“Step right up folks, the Circus awaits you inside”
Your comment is basically true. Maybe that is why news outlets like NPR and Bridge Magazine carry more balanced and original stories. They are in the first case largely and in the second case entirely directly from their audience.
Susan, but it is the same to the GOP. All they had to hear were the words " classified documents were found in an office Biden used."
The optics are horrible. They are particularly bad if you don't want to wait for it to be sorted out for facts.
I was listening to NPR last night and someone commented that the GOP are acting the same way the Democrats acted when documents were discovered that Trump had.
I had to take a step back. We did. We immediately convicted Trump of treason, obstruction, selling the documents +++++ before we knew what one paper was that he had.
Thinking back, I'm embarrassed.
I disagree; the "conviction" occurred only after the FBI had to apply for and be granted a search warrant when they had information that there were still additional documents in fpotus' possession AFTER his attorney had delivered what was sworn to be the last of the documents, with said documents being stored in an "unsecure" manner.
Ally, yes. That the Biden documents were discovered and returned before the archivists knew they were missing is telling. Also, there’s the matter of ignoring subpoenas, which Biden did not do, and which Trump did and will continue to do ‘til his dying day. Now is not the time to jump to false equivalencies, immho.
Ally, though the second it became public knowledge that there were "documents", the Democrats were walking Trump down the plank. Until the FBI made it public, just like now, we didn't know what Trump had. It was arguably worse then we had thought as it was rolled out.
I canceled my attendance a meeting today that has a couple of Trumpers in it. I don't want to hear their bullshit until it's public knowledge what the documents are.
I just had a good conversation with a colleague and asked him why it has taken 6 years and 2 Administrations to "find" these documents. His response was "find" or "planted".
Interesting.
It’s not only the center-right mainstream news that is interested in the two caches of documents (so far) that Biden did not return. It is in fact news, and I’m disappointed that Prof HCR keeps not mentioning it. I greatly admire her, but her uncritical adoration of this President is a weak spot that makes her less credible than she could be on the subject of his administration. To not mention it at all means we don’t even have the benefit of any context she could provide.
Settle down. Read how many documents were involved, and where they were kept. And then consider the President's reaction. The theatrics of the GOP are laughable.
No need to insult people who have a different point of view. I know I don't need to remind you that we're waking up every morning in fear for our democracy and our world thanks to the power of news, social media and gossip.
I read somewhere that it is not uncommon for some documents to go missing. NARA has a process for proper return and in Biden’s case, it was followed
I worked in Automotive Quality Assurance and if I learned only ONE thing in that world, it was “no process EVER goes without some discrepancy ”. Continuous Improvement is always the goal. When you find a problem, you fix it; and then you installed corrective actions that address the root cause. That’s what is happening with the Biden issue. Human errors occur however the BIG difference in Liability cases is the demonstration of Due Care as opposed to Gross Negligence
The discovery of a discrepancy is to be expected. Disappointing, yes; however consider reserving the disgust for Gross Negligent cases, not those where Due Care was in forced but missed
Dave, thank you for your sane and balanced reply, setting forth the perspective of one who has dwelt in the land of quality control. In all areas, it would be (close to) ideal if we were to put in place the best policies and safeguards, and then to correct course when we find failures in the system. Now if politics only worked that way!
Karl Rove, of all people, went on Fox with a whiteboard to explain the difference between a small number of docs left behind by accident and promptly returned, Vs hundreds of docs taken deliberately and then kept kept kept.
Huh - The Karl Rove that we all knew and loved? (Sarcasm here.)
Wow!
I point you to Joyce Vance's article today, differentiating the documents that Trump hid and those Biden immediately gave over to the National Archives.
Joanna, I've read a number of articles. Point being, the GOP will play this to the hilt.
Just like the Democrats did before they knew the facts.
Yes, it's a hypocrisy. The president is allowed to retain documents viewed during his time in office. There are very valid reasons for doing so.
No, the President shall return documents as soon as possible to NARA
There, fixed it for you
I thought when Biden was told he returned them. Trump lied and fought returning them. Two very different responses.
Honestly, the timing of it all make me suspect a Republican planted those documents first to affect the midterms and second to create a false whataboutism to Trump.
Midterms are long over.
But the results are not...
My point was that the documents could not have affected mid- terms as Barbara hypothesizes because they were not found until after the mid-terms.
Yup - absolutely a gift to these yahoos. Of course it is not the same - but that doesnt matter - just more blah blah blah - another excuse for what about ism. Honestly, I would have hoped this administration would have been on top of things like that. Even more so after the whole Maralago mess.
Maggie, it looks like it's a gift that keeps on giving. Bidens aides found documents at Bidens house. Garland is holding a presser at 1:15 today.
I'm telling you, it's a distraction. The President is allowed to take his documents anywhere he needs them. A nothingburger!
The only question is, what are we being distracted from. The total breakdown of the Commercial Air Travel system perhaps? That's pretty serious. Worthy of the usual diversion. Buttigieg needs to go now, if not sooner.
These documents were taken when he was Vice President. 6 years ago and 2 Administrations ago. They should have been returned when he was no longer VP.
You are overlooking the obvious. The President has every right to handle classified Documents once the people elect him to be Commander in Chief. Even after he leaves office. This is a nothingburger.
Whoops, after he leaves office he's no longer Commander in Chief and has no such right... Apart from that, you're quite correct.
Keep in mind that these documents were in Bidens possession when he was Vice President, 2 Administrations ago and not properly returned to the National Archives. That is a fact that can't be denied.
Yes, it is a fact, but these documents were left in a box in a closet in an official government office. Not in a private home, randomly strewn about, in Florida! Huge difference.
Carol, no question. But they never should have been left there. Assuming they didn't magically appear, how were they overlooked for 6 years?
Both scenarios aren't adding up.
I wondered that also. But I'm careful about voicing my suspicions without further facts. Remains to be seen!
Ha, you have fallen for the ploy. The documents were strewn about by the FBI, not Trump. They did that purposefully for dramatic impact, and you fell for it.
The fact is, every president has the right to retain documents which he has read. Once he has read them they are no longer secrets to him. That's why it is allowed. Any good businessman retains records. It would have been odd if he had not retained evidence to support himself, knowing that his enemies would do anything to put him in prison.
You report facts in the same manner Fox does
Are you auditioning?
"2 Administrations ago..." Curious to know why they weren't discovered by Pence when he was in office.
Excellent point. (But did Pence ever leave his master's side??)
Or Mother’s?
Docs sleeping in a secure area, unnoticed for 6 years
I’m reminded of the ending of Raiders of the Lost Ark
Aren't these just copies? Not original documents to be retained in the archives.
It appears to be an undeniable fact, but it's a very curious one, and it's right that it should be properly investigated under all aspects.
It's a nothingburger. All presidents are allowed to retain documents they have read.
Isn’t that kinda like being almost completely “contextually” wrong?
ESG
Your letter touches on all 3 elements. Extreme weather events (Environment); culture wars without a basis in actual policy debate (Social) and
unevenly applied tax policy /inadequate resources for processing and compliance (Governance). Without actual Governance, it is tough to focus policy on resiliency, adaptability from extreme weather events. I am truly saddened that policy debate is deemed too boring for TV news programming.
Today in the NYT when they discussed The Republican Party turning on Santos, my comment was like most of the others. He is perfectly in keeping with what they stand for. If he has committed a crime charge him, but otherwise, why are they not going after Trump who is the biggest liar of all. They are a bunch of hypocrites. Also, the Republican Party members in Congress need to take a class in government. They seem to think that instead of legislating they are supposed to be in charge of oversight. That is the job of the Justice Department. I am looking at what the Republicans are doing and I feel that we need to be taking to the streets like the women in Iran and the people of China. On January 22, there will be actions organized by The Women's March on the 50th anniversary of Roe v Wade. The National March is on Madison Wisconsin because they will be voting for their Supreme Court on February 21. It is close.
https://action.womensmarch.com/events/national-march-on-madison-bigger-than-roe
If that is too far, there are marches all over the country. You can find one here.
https://action.womensmarch.com/local?page=4
Please join and bring signs for every cause that we need to be supporting right now. Ideally we would be protesting every day, so that the people in government who are misbehaving would get uncomfortable. While the people in Iran and China are getting arrested for protesting and even some are being killed, they also have brought about change because they are relentless. We can peacefully protest and that will let them know that we are not going to just accept their lying, grifting ways as business as usual. That is going on in Germany right now. There are people protesting the plans to dig up of brown coal in Lützerath when coal is supposed to be phased out. That is going on in Vienna right now. There are people protesting the building of a highway into Vienna. In both places they have been setting up camp. The government removed the camps, and the camps come back. In fact, I heard Greta Thunberg is going to be joining the protesters in Germany on Friday. This is our Standing Rock and we need to fight!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Onyk7guvHK8
I can't believe the only march in upstate NY is in the Rochester area! Helllooo, Capital Region women?
Your commentary on which of these deliberately disturbing initiatives are solely performative helps me sleep, at least I hope so as it is now almost 4AM. Unfortunately, writing about these provocative but very dangerous antics must be a terrible drag, and exhausting. I wanted you to know that your sorting through at that level, even briefly, helps this furious woman in Maineville Ohio. A lot.
Hi Fran
As a Michigan Native, I just want to let you know that I sent many small donations to Tim Ryan on behalf of sanity. It didn't work out, but I want you to know that if you or anyone you know needs an abortion , fertility treatments or gender affirming care, it is available for you up here in Michigan. Ann Arbor is a good place to look for all of the above. We may be rivals in football, but we are now willing and able to extend the hand of hope to our neighbors. By the way, our Constitutional Amendment also protects other States extradition and prosecution of patients and and anyone else who helps you seek help including the healthcare professionals.
I just re-read my comment and am a little shocked I didn't check what my IA decided I wanted to say. It should say first State Constitution, and second, against other State's...
Thank you for your comment, Louise. There are going to be many in Ohio, including children, who will need to take Michigan up on these heartening offers of help and support. While we're living a nightmare here, Michigan is a beacon of what *can* be.
Indeed, the oxygen has been sucked by evil for oh, so long. But evil is persistent and powerful. May we be also…
That sounds a bit religious.
Philosophy, not religion.
Does philosophy involve faith?
"Trust the science" is faith. Scientists furnish evidence and may not use the term "trust me".
No, you can exercise philosophy, which is the reasoning power of your mind, without any need for faith, whatever "faith" means. When used to denote a religious belief, "faith" amounts to a suspension of disbelief. The actual meaning of the word "science" is "knowledge". As you say, scientists furnish evidence, that is to say, proof. A good scientist wouldn't say "trust me" - unless they meant "Believe me!" in a colloquial way.
Who says "Trust the science"? Someone who perceives that they are addressing an individual who is contradicting scientific truth, without evidence, and just believing what they choose to believe based on tradition. Take climate change, for example. Scientists have known about climate change for a very long time because they have studied geological history through the evidence of rocks and soil.
Again, science does not require trust, it requires evidence. Scientists, on the other hand, do require trust, and lately some of their methods have come under scrutiny. Such skepticism is welcomed by a true scientist. Challenging a theory is as important as formulating a theory. Scientists like Dr. Fauci, who impedes skepticism, is not practicing the scientific method. He was one who claimed to be the science, and he also repeatedly asked for the public to trust him, without substantiation. He was wrong on many counts.
Evidence supports a theory, it does not "prove" it. New evidence can challenge any theory. Science is a process, not "knowledge" as you seem to want to define it. That is a common error.
I offer you the following article which explains the philosophy of the scientific method.
https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/jul/24/trust-the-science-is-the-mantra-of-the-covid-crisis-but-what-about-human-fallibility
As I "seem to want to define it"? The word "science" is derived from the Latin "scientia", "knowledge", which in turn derives from the verb "scire". "Scio" = "I know".
"Believe" is a word for clergymen.
https://youtu.be/4n7fd95Rujg
Clergymen use it a great deal as a tool of their trade.
Trolls like the opposite of any statement; trolls swim in the parasitic fluid of bad faith.
I hope the Republican plan is to rush through their never-pass wish list so we can stop hearing about the current stupidity in the GOP.
Santos cannot use the argument that he was elected by the people therefore he can't be ejected by his fellow politicians. The people voted for the fake person he presented to them. Apparently, the political parties don't do any background checks on their candidates. It's ridiculous that people like Santos can get this far in our government. What the heck is happening in this country?
Truth in Advertising applies here, I think, and it wouldn't take a Eastman or Thomas reading of the Law to enforce it. Criminal Fraud.
A small local Great Neck paper did expose him, but could not get anyone else to believe them.
:(