Professor, didn’t something else happen today? An article in Politico said that you joined a group of historians for lunch with President Biden. I’m sure you will have more to say when you are able to. Thank you for your contribution to helping save our democracy.
Professor, didn’t something else happen today? An article in Politico said that you joined a group of historians for lunch with President Biden. I’m sure you will have more to say when you are able to. Thank you for your contribution to helping save our democracy.
Thanks 🙏 very much !!! I take away that we’ll have to wait some more to get out... maybe through his speech on Friday the 6th... wow... Thank God! There was a « lively exchange of ideas » !!! That’s what we need. Frankly isn’t that exactly what we live for and fight for?!
... <<...Attendees were tight-lipped about what was discussed at the gathering. One would only go so far as to say they “talked about American history and its bearing on the present — a lively exchange of ideas.”
Another person in the room,
who like the others was not authorized to speak publicly about a private meeting,
said the historians urged the president “to call out the moment for what it is.” In blunt terms, the academics discussed looming threats to the nation’s democracy and warned about the slow crawl of authoritarianism around the globe....>>...
It may be “The slow crawl of authoritarianism around the globe,” but it is evolving into a sprint in the United States. "It’s a wild power grab. And it is apparently being done with an eye to 2024. “ Rep Tom Nehis, R-Texas.
To be clear, the MAGA dominated Republican party can now be justifiably called the “Fascist Party.” Now that those Republicans who do not fall into line fear for their lives and the lives of their loved ones, we see fascism in action. I submit we no longer use the term MAGA, for that movement has nothing to do with making America great. MAGA is fascism and we should call it that. Those who are deluded into darkness hate the light of truth. Those of us who do not currently have to fear for our safety…yet, should shine the light of truth brightly and take control of the narrative and simply call the GOP what it is, The Fascist Party of the United States.
Marc Nevas, you're a brave one. I liked your reasoning. If the politicians, judges, etc are so fearful of violence against themselves or their family that they can't do what is right, their party has crossed the rubicon. They are The Fascist Party.
Actually, Lenin wasn't a fascist, but a totalitarian communist. Fascism was represented by Mussolini, Tojo and Hitler. tfg is the present day face of fascism. He and the GOP have joined the axis of evil.
Totalitarianism, whatever scheme it's attached to, is the ultimate enemy of humanity, left, right, or theocratic. An engaged, honest, and caring democracy seems to be the only sustainable cure.
To your point JL & per a United States Department of State "Media Note" this 1/5 morning, a substantial $10 Million "Awards for Justice" program, has been offered internationally " ... for Information on Hamas' Financial Networks."
Red Sea shipping attacks continue this morning originating from YEMEN.
Earlier today in IRAQ, the US targeted & killed a factional leader & international operative located in Baghdad, IRAQ.
Despite the repeated cautionary notes by many, the Middle East Wars [plural] are expanding rapidly.
Did the American fascists of World War 2 BULLY people like today’s fascists? Is it because of easy to obtain weapons, social media, or the idea that they are “good Christians”? Whatever it is, the DOJ and the msm need to start publicizing that the bully fascists are paying the price. Tell us what happened to the rioters who were caught and tried, Mr. Pelosi’s attacker, people who made threats against poll workers, ad nauseam. And lock up/shut up the manbaby who has violated the terms of his parole again and again. We all watched the Jan 6 insurrection riot live on tv. Tfg is unfit for command and everyone knows it. Justice Matters says Glen Kirschner.
The "Brownshirts" of the Hitler rise in Germany are growing rapidly. They threaten anyone and everyone from the top politicians to the local election officials. There must be an organizing group behind them. We need to find out who that is. They are a big reason for "Insurrection Trump's" continuing success.
I never thought I'd live to see someone like Donald Trump try to take over our country and make it HIS country. I never thought I'd live to see so many people worship someone like Donald Trump. He has brought out and condoned all the hate, narrow-mindedness, racism and entitlement that these people have felt for so long. He has urged them to be as mean and cruel as he is.
I never thought I would see so-called intelligent and law-abiding members of Congress forget their values and sell their souls to someone like Trump. It's just sickening that they have no spine to stand up and say, " This is not right!!"
I like to watch "Entitled people who get owned." on Youtube. While they're screaming racial slurs and feeling entitled to do or say anything they want, they often scream, "I voted for Trump!!" or "Trump is coming back!!!! " These crazy people are examples of Trump supporters--loud, vulgar, crass, disrespectful, hateful people who think the world revoves around them and their beliefs.
On the videos, I love to see these people being called out by someone in the crowd who dares confront them, which usually results in a tirade of ," Mind your GD business." or " What the F is it to you?" I dearly love to see them being hauled off by police while still screaming their entitement. " I know my rights!! " is a favorite defense.
When I watch these videos, I have a sense of "right " winning for a time. In these times and under the circumstances of Trump's maniacal hold on people, I seldom feel that "right is winning."
With his hold on the Republicans who don't have a spine to stand up and say, "This is NOT right!", I feel a sense of despair that our democracy is in danger, because these blind followers of Trump are not being held accountable.
"Trump is coming back!!!!" are some of the most frightening words I've heard.
Time to watch some more entitled people get owned.:)
Frustration with the Legal system that endorses the bribing of elected officials, which floods billionaire money into the greed grubbers; drowning out the voices of average citizens. Our problem is the Supreme Court, bought and paid for Leonard Leo’s henchmen
The American people were put under siege by Ronnie RayGun’s union busting, destroying the living wage concept. Workers were forced into legal slavery where ANY job, regardless of pay was acceptable. Corporations pushed workers to the limit of their sanity and the result is the anger and violence we see today. The mythical savior, strongman Donnie has them convinced their lives will be better when he puts all “the others” in prison or floating dead in the Rio Grande
Of course, the push to destroy public education has not helped
Let's not forget that the abundance of corporate and dark money in our politics can be traced directly to the actions of the Roberts Court, one of the worst Supreme Courts in history. All to support #SmelloYellow
Pam-Your well articulated description of Trump supporters are just the way we can describe their "leader". They are a reflection of him-add lawless to the description since they think they can do anything they want. The law is there to protect their "rights". They don't want the law to protect the rights of others.
The quiet, behind the scenes supporters are the scariest. They're pulling out all the stops to elect someone who says he wants to be a dictator. They're counting on his ability to keep us all divided so they can wield their power over "we the people". You're right-our democracy is indeed in danger...
I think the published thoughts of Lincoln and other respected American theorists contrast starkly with with the whole canon of "Republican" utterances and that compare and contrast packs a wallop. For that matter, what in fact is a "republic" and which party is now supporting one?
Hi Pam, you write 1000% exactly what I feel. I wish this group had a zoom call once a month or so so that we could all actually talk and share some of our feelings of extreme frustration, fear, anger and maybe a bit of hope here and there too. I read these comments each day and usually feel a bit heartened, but I also feel increasingly hopeless and pretty alone in this faceless online world we now all exist in. Anyway, thanks for your--everyone's--comments to HCR's daily dose of sanity, it helps. I hope our country will be ok come Nov, but I fear it won't. Anyway, I'm trying to say hopeful and help where I can. --Prof S (in DC)
What are the so called normal Republicans afraid of besides their job ..what is really going on behind the scenes..can’t believe they won’t denounce what is happening
I have been calling it thus for months now. And I use my FB page as a platform for doing so, having succeeded in weeding out the trolls! Next, I'm going to consider a bumper sticker of some sort.
And the acronym is...Fascist PUS? Seriously though, we need to speak out loudly and broadly (not just to each other) about what “Liberty” and “Freedom” really mean in the hands of American Fascists. Freedom means they are free to make death threats to swing elections. Freedom means they can say whatever they want (who cares if it’s not true), but you can’t. Add to the list: Freedom means...
What are the so called normal Republicans afraid of besides their job ..what is really going on behind the scenes..can’t believe they won’t denounce what is happening
"...maybe through his speech on Friday the 6th". Let's hope that speech is a very clear and convincing sequence of statements what America and Americans stand for!
I sure hope none of those historians offered Joe a free drink as that would give the REPUBLICAN'TS evidence of corruption for impeachment. It is so laughable when Congress person after Congress person is asked on camera what the crime for impeachment of Joe is and they have to admit, on camera, that they have nothing.
"... they have nothing". Nothing at all. Those REPUBLICANts have nothing and have had nothing but hate and corruption and vile comments ... that's all their contributions to today's government. Shame on them to be ruled by money pressure and anarchists and - yes, - fascists, not to mention tfg who should have been seriously stopped in his tracks and in jail long time ago.
Many of the MAGANAZI's read at a 6th grade level or below, so they CAN'T read. That's why FOX NEWS and other right wing media get the message out ad nauseam.
I'm on Instagram for friends and family. I don't post anything. However, I love the interviews with wet brain Trump supporters. They are hysterical. Especially when Jordan Klemper hands their words back to them. This is where rape apologists gather. They vote. Oh the fuckery.
This is one encouraging sign from a brutal days of news...it is good to know what is happening in the world, even better to bbc "build beloved communities" in our own circles of influence.
I truly believe “building beloved communities “ is the way forward. Let’s make hate yesterday’s news. It’s never been done before, but there are some 7billion of us who could benefit from it right now.
He needs more than cerebral historians. He needs savvy media creators to infect the maga-soaked and besotted public space anr enter the mental space of the many who are not paying attention. I'm talking about youngsters who only get their news from social media. Also all the newly employed who may feel they're too busy to vote. We need anti-MAGA activists to enter MAGA space and argue against Trumpism and for the common citizen. I try, but my blood pressure rises as my blood boils from the mindless comments I read.
So I'm very glad to read that Biden is gathering ideas from the likes of HCR, but I despair from the thought that this cerebral exercise will not affect those who think with their gut (or another appendage).
No, these meetings are not mere "cerebral exercises". Biden is seeking a wide range of input so that he can better understand American needs. In fact, Biden confers with various groups so this isn't exactly a unique event. And there's an awful lot going on outside of official channels and parties that address the questions you raise. So I'd suggest enlarging the range of your reading.
I found your dismissal of historians as "cerebral" rather odd, especially applied to HCR. I find historians fascinating in the dedication they have to illuminating the present through the prism of the past- often including humor. Some of HCR's talks on video and live presentations offer good examples.
Please set aside your stereotypical view of people who spend their lives trying to illuminate our past, our history, the impacts of various factors on who and where we are. They are largely simply human beings with a vast curiousity they are willing to share with others- including us. I am grateful.
Oy vey, Annie! If I wrote in a way that implies I'm dismissive of HCR or other historians, I must apologize since that's the opposite of how I feel and what I follow and read.
What I meant to state is that though Biden's policies and speeches are rooted in a rich universe of empirically correct information (the "Bidenverse"), they are nowhere near enough to penetrate the thick shell surrounding the information-poor MAGA-verse. If you know of "influencers" that are effectively engaging with those who get their news only from social media without alienating them with cerebral thoughts that turn them off, let me know who they might be so I can follow, like, repost, or whatever it takes to amplify their message.
Jerry this is what you wrote: "He needs more than cerebral historians....
So I'm very glad to read that Biden is gathering ideas from the likes of HCR, but I despair from the thought that this cerebral exercise will not affect those who think with their gut (or another appendage)."
That sounds pretty dismissive to me.
You also wrote about the need to reach out to the "Magaverse" on their terms. Not sure I agree with you. We've talked a lot on this (and other forums) about the fact that most of the people drawn to Trump have vested themselves in his version of reality, and are not reachable. Some quietly peel away, and become receptive to other sources of information- which is what people like us are providing. Few make it here, but are most likely to be reached by the many grass-roots projects that us ordinary citizens are involved in.
Setting the hardline Trumpists aside, there are many people out there who are simply living their lives and have not yet gotten caught up in election hysteria. They may not even have thought about voting. Those are the people our projects are reaching out to, with information about voting and raising questions about personal priorities for people to think about. We showed in 2022 the power of this kind of reaching out: it works. The election results in 2022 proved it: no red wave. Local and state offices taken by Dems. MSM scratched their heads and started looking around. They are finally getting it. This is not a horserace. Trump's "base" is not the issue. We are, and we are running on issues that matter to people's lives, and it is working. We can do it again.
There are a bunch of groups focussed on this kind of action. The entire year before the 2022 elections, there were lists posted here regularly. Maybe it's time to do that again.
Here are a few I have, but there are more.
"Hopium Chronicles", by Simon Rosenburg (substack) Support for activists with some positive things to share.
Swing Left has published their list of flippable seats in the US House along with 6 Democratic seats we need to hold. It can be found here: https://swingleft.org/p/house
Activate America (www.activateamerica.vote) : postcards to flip seats in local/state elections. Several active now.
Letter-writing to get out vote in critical races in other states. Just starting to organize for 2024
PostCardsToVoters Linktr.ee (https://linktr.ee/postcardstovoters) to see how to joinPostcards To Voters. If you have already joined, remember that Abby the Bot is not texting but you can get addresses via the PTV linktr.ee)
Jerry- I so agree about the need to reach people, especially youth, through public spaces and technology. When the anti-slavery faction started using the churches, public spaces, theater etc., John C. Calhoun from South Carolina was highly upset that they were winning the "mental space" and drawing more and more people to their cause.
We have to give Trump and the Republicans credit for being some of the best spin doctors out there. As Sweet Honey in the Rock sings, "we who believe in freedom cannot rest". Let's hope that in addition to listening to cerebral historians, that Biden (and all of us) put the turret out there to counter the spin that's capitalizing on division, cruelty and hate.
I know it will be hard to switch from MAGA to fascist, for me too, and fascist doesn't pinpoint who you mean , the way MAGA does. Still, we should try to switch. Maybe ' today's fascists' or 'American fascists.'
Interesting. For a while, I was calling all Trumpists the American Taliban. There are also, as you point out, the American Fascists. Should we add the American Kleptocrats?
These tranches could probably be further subdivided into
a) knowledgeable and thus dangerous
B) clueless and thus reachable.
I do believe that labels are important because they create feedback that penetrates their bubbles. For instance, I was engaged in TikTok before the 2020 election, and the label "American Taliban" actually got responses from creators. Did that change any minds? I have no clue, but hope that a moment of introspection might would occasionally be repeated.
I love that Biden gathered this group, including the professor. The more attention focused on the very real threat of a fascist takeover, the better.
However, the president absolutely must take the immigration issue head on. The GOP is controlling the narrative to the detriment of Biden's re-election chances as well as those of Democrats running for Congress.
Biden must go big by proposing major reforms in a national address, knowing full well that the GOP will do nothing. Then he and his surrogates can hammer them repeatedly for failing to act. In this election, absolutely nothing should be left to chance.
Your suggestion is more than a little cynical, but absolutely true. Immigration law is the responsibility of Congress and the fact that there has been no reform in spite of many attempts means that it's more valuable as a bone of contention than it is a serious problem.
It's perceived as a serious problem, and I think it is too, though a much more multi-faceted one than do-nothing-but complain Republicans. Why else would Biden and the Senate be willing to spend many billions of dollars to address it? Also, the nation's immigration laws have not been seriously reformed in many years thanks to GOP shenanigans and outright deception.
Some 2.5 million authorized people entering the country last year, a record, is overwhelming the system.
Yes, the system is overwhelmed, because it is seriously underfunded, not because it doesn't work. Yes, there could be improvements made, but adequate funding alone would be a great improvement and that hasn't even been tried. Immigration has always been a good thing for the US.
All Federal immigration laws have been racist beginning with the first one in 1875 that was designed to keep Chinese women from joining the Chinese men that had been brought to the US to work.
Today's political hysteria isn't about immigration; it's about racism. When was the last time anyone wanted to talk about people crossing from Canada? When was the last time anyone wanted to talk about people arriving by airplane? If we're really interested in reforming immigration why are we only talking about the border with Mexico?
Generally agree. And yes racism is a major issue. That said, the sheer number of people arriving on foot is overwhelming various places. It's not sustainable.
Nor does it need to be; the numbers are high for a number of reasons but mainly because of pent up need from Trump's really horrific policies. Long term, the rate of immigration, especially at the southern border is highly variable.
And we must not forget how much responsibility the US has for the conditions in Central American states that drive much of the immigration from those areas.
There is a wonderful and vibrant cross border culture that is invisible to most of the rest of the US. Of course it has no political value, especially in Texas.
If you get a chance, "La Frontera with Pati Jinich" is a wonderful introduction via food and I think you can find it on You Tube
Substack has nothing to do with Microsoft. Becoming paid subscribers supports the authors and their work. I'm proud to support a half-dozen Substack writers, some of whom I've read for decades, and whose books I've loved.
Channeling Fern here. The text copied and pasted below:
By LAUREN EGAN and JONATHAN LEMIRE
01/03/2024 09:31 PM EST
"President Joe Biden hosted a small group of scholars and historians for lunch on Wednesday as he gears up for a speech framing the upcoming election as a battle for the nation’s democracy.
The discussion revolved around “ongoing threats to democracy and democratic institutions both here in America and around the world, as well as the opportunities we face as a nation,” the White House said in a statement.
Princeton’s Eddie Glaude Jr. and Sean Wilentz, Harvard’s Annette Gordon-Reed, Yale’s Beverly Gage and Boston College’s Heather Cox Richardson were among the attendees, as well as presidential biographer — and occasional Biden speech writer — Jon Meacham.
Attendees were tight-lipped about what was discussed at the gathering. One would only go so far as to say they “talked about American history and its bearing on the present — a lively exchange of ideas.”
Another person in the room, who like the others was not authorized to speak publicly about a private meeting, said the historians urged the president “to call out the moment for what it is.” In blunt terms, the academics discussed looming threats to the nation’s democracy and warned about the slow crawl of authoritarianism around the globe.
Biden listened intently and asked questions, the participant said. “This is something that he cares about deeply,” the person said.
Over the course of his presidency, Biden has periodically convened groups of top scholars and historians for big-picture conversations about his legacy, as well as existential threats to the country. Wednesday’s lunch meeting comes ahead of Biden’s speech this Friday in Valley Forge, Pa., marking the third anniversary of the Jan. 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol.
“This is something that he tends to do, especially as we head towards an important day like Jan. 6,” press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said during Wednesday’s press briefing.
The subject matter is familiar for Biden. He has repeatedly declared that he vowed to run for president after watching the racist demonstrators march on Charlottesville, Va., in 2017 when then-President Donald Trump declared there were good people “on both sides” of the protests. He called that race a battle for the “very soul of the nation” and now believes the stakes are higher.
Biden watched the U.S. Capitol insurrection of Jan. 6, 2021, from his transition headquarters in Wilmington, Del. He had hoped that the riot would bring the Trump era to an end. But since then, the former president has tightened his grip on the Republican Party. Biden has repeatedly warned that the dangers of anti-democratic forces have grown, using his speeches to mark the two previous anniversaries of the insurrection — one delivered from the Capitol.
The president also made it central to his efforts to aid Democrats in 2022’s midterm elections — which included a speech at Philadelphia’s Independence Hall — and credited it in part for the party’s surprisingly strong showing. He returned to the theme last year at the McCain Institute and will revisit it at another historically symbolic venue this weekend at the headquarters of General George Washington’s Continental Army during the American Revolution.
Ally-Thanks for sharing this...it's so interesting how as they say "history rhymes". In 1860 BEFORE Lincoln was inaugurated seven states seceded from the Union and engaged in insurrection/rebellion (now called the Civil War) against the government. In 2020, the losing presidential candidate planned and incited an insurrection to stop the "peaceful transfer of power" BEFORE Biden was inaugurated. Violence reigned both times. Insurrectionists continue their quest to divide so they can conquer.
Kudos to Biden for inviting discussion about our past and how it impacts on our present and future. The group of scholars mentioned are seasoned and diverse in numerous ways. What an interesting conversation it must have been...
May Americans who really care about this country (and not just their own power/privilege) rise up to stem the tide of fascism now aimed at us by people-foreign and domestic-who want to tear down the possibilities of "perfecting our union".
This is where we reach the crossroads between journalism and history. I don’t know if I should worry that HCR is becoming close to the current president. The role of an historian may augur in favor of such a relationship, but I do worry about potential loss of objectivity.
If one doesn't "objectively" see Trump and the MAGA movement as a violent threat to our nation and its fragile democratic experiment, then one is a fascist or an accessory to a fascist - at the very least an unwitting accomplice.
William, in a perfect world where we would be discussing something like old school conservative philosophies vs old school liberal social policies - I would strongly agree with your concern. Historians should provide historical facts and interesting, helpful perspectives. Teach - not pontificate.
But this is now a war. This is Germany in the early 20th century. These historians are reminding President Biden that he is at the center of our effort to stop fascism in its tracks.
The old two party system is gone. The old friendly debates between colleagues of different persuasions are impossible now. The glove has slapped the face of our Constitution. Choose your non-lethal weapon.
Historians and everyone else: climb aboard the Democratic train or prepare to live in a totalitarian nightmare. Prepare to watch the US descend into an attack on our environment and the existence of millions of species - including our own. We're talking about survival here. Not just political philosophies. I hope Heather and her colleagues MAKE some history.
We have one of our major political parties that no longer believes in constitutional government, and they are willing to blow it all up to retain whatever they think they deserve to have. We definitely are at a cross between authoritarianism and self-government. We must save ourselves with as much knowledge and information we have. No one else will do it.
It’s the other way around: she has his ear. It is beneficial for a sitting president to receive and heed the big picture lessons and insights of history and historians.
I appreciate President Biden’s heeding the lessons of history and teaming with historians to understand what lessons our past holds for our future. That is intelligent and shows thoughtful action.
I don't worry about the objectivity of historians per se. Woodward, for example, being given direct access to Trump, becomes a source of information to historians, and deliberation on Woodward's objectivity isn't much different from a historian's deliberation on their own ability to remain objective.
At this point, decrepit Joe Biden is merely a placeholder. Will Gavin Newsom replace the hapless Kamala as his running mate?
Meanwhile, Trump is dying a death of a thousand cuts in our legal system. Are the pair of them -- Trump and Biden -- emblematic of America as the geriatric global thug who can't get it up anymore?
Biden will be the Democratic nominee, the way things are shaping up. If you think he’s decrepit, please watch a video of him being interviewed, any video. You’ll see someone who’s very capable. It’s democracy (Biden and Harris) or fascism (tRump and whatever sellout stands in to the VP slot). Your choice.
"Corporate Joe " Biden, the election-stealing Vampire Liberal, is neo-fascism. Thete is no choice, except which flavor of fascism you prefer.
Watching Biden at a scripted, pre-packaged interview isn't the real test.
"Recent gaffes by President Joe Biden have 'made a significant impact' on the polls and are 'reinforcing fears within Democratic ranks' that he's too old to serve a second White House term, according to one political scientist."
You're correct, that one has been a sporadic but long-time troll on here, with a pattern of repetitively posting the same links or phrases onto others' comments in the same issue.
Simply continue to decline to engage in a battle of wits with an unarmed opponent."
Propaganda shills like HCR use phrases like "faith in our electoral system," as if it was our civic duty to BELIEVE that Biden didn't steal the nomination from Bernie Sanders.
Dishonest propaganda shills like HCR never talk about that old Democratic classic "Votescam: The Stealing of America":
Professor, didn’t something else happen today? An article in Politico said that you joined a group of historians for lunch with President Biden. I’m sure you will have more to say when you are able to. Thank you for your contribution to helping save our democracy.
The first link is direct to Politico.
https://www.politico.com/news/2024/01/03/historians-scholars-biden-lunch-democracy-00133765
I had originally posted this link via MSN.
https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/politics/here-are-the-historians-and-scholars-biden-dined-with-today/ar-AA1mqWw2
The next link is the same article accessed through Yahoo News.
https://news.yahoo.com/historians-scholars-biden-dined-today-023156951.html
Also, this luncheon was mentioned in the daily White House news briefing, without naming those in attendance.
Thanks 🙏 very much !!! I take away that we’ll have to wait some more to get out... maybe through his speech on Friday the 6th... wow... Thank God! There was a « lively exchange of ideas » !!! That’s what we need. Frankly isn’t that exactly what we live for and fight for?!
... <<...Attendees were tight-lipped about what was discussed at the gathering. One would only go so far as to say they “talked about American history and its bearing on the present — a lively exchange of ideas.”
Another person in the room,
who like the others was not authorized to speak publicly about a private meeting,
said the historians urged the president “to call out the moment for what it is.” In blunt terms, the academics discussed looming threats to the nation’s democracy and warned about the slow crawl of authoritarianism around the globe....>>...
It may be “The slow crawl of authoritarianism around the globe,” but it is evolving into a sprint in the United States. "It’s a wild power grab. And it is apparently being done with an eye to 2024. “ Rep Tom Nehis, R-Texas.
To be clear, the MAGA dominated Republican party can now be justifiably called the “Fascist Party.” Now that those Republicans who do not fall into line fear for their lives and the lives of their loved ones, we see fascism in action. I submit we no longer use the term MAGA, for that movement has nothing to do with making America great. MAGA is fascism and we should call it that. Those who are deluded into darkness hate the light of truth. Those of us who do not currently have to fear for our safety…yet, should shine the light of truth brightly and take control of the narrative and simply call the GOP what it is, The Fascist Party of the United States.
Marc Nevas, you're a brave one. I liked your reasoning. If the politicians, judges, etc are so fearful of violence against themselves or their family that they can't do what is right, their party has crossed the rubicon. They are The Fascist Party.
Leninist Fascist party. Destroy the state. Create disorder. Install a minority and rule with corrupt power. Voters wake up
Actually, Lenin wasn't a fascist, but a totalitarian communist. Fascism was represented by Mussolini, Tojo and Hitler. tfg is the present day face of fascism. He and the GOP have joined the axis of evil.
Totalitarianism, whatever scheme it's attached to, is the ultimate enemy of humanity, left, right, or theocratic. An engaged, honest, and caring democracy seems to be the only sustainable cure.
To your point JL & per a United States Department of State "Media Note" this 1/5 morning, a substantial $10 Million "Awards for Justice" program, has been offered internationally " ... for Information on Hamas' Financial Networks."
Red Sea shipping attacks continue this morning originating from YEMEN.
Earlier today in IRAQ, the US targeted & killed a factional leader & international operative located in Baghdad, IRAQ.
Despite the repeated cautionary notes by many, the Middle East Wars [plural] are expanding rapidly.
Did the American fascists of World War 2 BULLY people like today’s fascists? Is it because of easy to obtain weapons, social media, or the idea that they are “good Christians”? Whatever it is, the DOJ and the msm need to start publicizing that the bully fascists are paying the price. Tell us what happened to the rioters who were caught and tried, Mr. Pelosi’s attacker, people who made threats against poll workers, ad nauseam. And lock up/shut up the manbaby who has violated the terms of his parole again and again. We all watched the Jan 6 insurrection riot live on tv. Tfg is unfit for command and everyone knows it. Justice Matters says Glen Kirschner.
The "Brownshirts" of the Hitler rise in Germany are growing rapidly. They threaten anyone and everyone from the top politicians to the local election officials. There must be an organizing group behind them. We need to find out who that is. They are a big reason for "Insurrection Trump's" continuing success.
Marc, The RED Shirts lurking in the shadows. The Man Baby’s henchmen spawning the fear of fear
The GOP accomplices who have learned that refusing to do anything at all accomplishes their ambitions. We live in interesting times
Dave, interesting times Iindeed!
I never thought I'd live to see someone like Donald Trump try to take over our country and make it HIS country. I never thought I'd live to see so many people worship someone like Donald Trump. He has brought out and condoned all the hate, narrow-mindedness, racism and entitlement that these people have felt for so long. He has urged them to be as mean and cruel as he is.
I never thought I would see so-called intelligent and law-abiding members of Congress forget their values and sell their souls to someone like Trump. It's just sickening that they have no spine to stand up and say, " This is not right!!"
I like to watch "Entitled people who get owned." on Youtube. While they're screaming racial slurs and feeling entitled to do or say anything they want, they often scream, "I voted for Trump!!" or "Trump is coming back!!!! " These crazy people are examples of Trump supporters--loud, vulgar, crass, disrespectful, hateful people who think the world revoves around them and their beliefs.
On the videos, I love to see these people being called out by someone in the crowd who dares confront them, which usually results in a tirade of ," Mind your GD business." or " What the F is it to you?" I dearly love to see them being hauled off by police while still screaming their entitement. " I know my rights!! " is a favorite defense.
When I watch these videos, I have a sense of "right " winning for a time. In these times and under the circumstances of Trump's maniacal hold on people, I seldom feel that "right is winning."
With his hold on the Republicans who don't have a spine to stand up and say, "This is NOT right!", I feel a sense of despair that our democracy is in danger, because these blind followers of Trump are not being held accountable.
"Trump is coming back!!!!" are some of the most frightening words I've heard.
Time to watch some more entitled people get owned.:)
Frustration with the Legal system that endorses the bribing of elected officials, which floods billionaire money into the greed grubbers; drowning out the voices of average citizens. Our problem is the Supreme Court, bought and paid for Leonard Leo’s henchmen
The American people were put under siege by Ronnie RayGun’s union busting, destroying the living wage concept. Workers were forced into legal slavery where ANY job, regardless of pay was acceptable. Corporations pushed workers to the limit of their sanity and the result is the anger and violence we see today. The mythical savior, strongman Donnie has them convinced their lives will be better when he puts all “the others” in prison or floating dead in the Rio Grande
Of course, the push to destroy public education has not helped
Let's not forget that the abundance of corporate and dark money in our politics can be traced directly to the actions of the Roberts Court, one of the worst Supreme Courts in history. All to support #SmelloYellow
Amen and Amen!
Pam-Your well articulated description of Trump supporters are just the way we can describe their "leader". They are a reflection of him-add lawless to the description since they think they can do anything they want. The law is there to protect their "rights". They don't want the law to protect the rights of others.
The quiet, behind the scenes supporters are the scariest. They're pulling out all the stops to elect someone who says he wants to be a dictator. They're counting on his ability to keep us all divided so they can wield their power over "we the people". You're right-our democracy is indeed in danger...
I think the published thoughts of Lincoln and other respected American theorists contrast starkly with with the whole canon of "Republican" utterances and that compare and contrast packs a wallop. For that matter, what in fact is a "republic" and which party is now supporting one?
Gina, thanks for your comments.
It's always good to hear from people who see the truth about what's going on in America.
Hi Pam, you write 1000% exactly what I feel. I wish this group had a zoom call once a month or so so that we could all actually talk and share some of our feelings of extreme frustration, fear, anger and maybe a bit of hope here and there too. I read these comments each day and usually feel a bit heartened, but I also feel increasingly hopeless and pretty alone in this faceless online world we now all exist in. Anyway, thanks for your--everyone's--comments to HCR's daily dose of sanity, it helps. I hope our country will be ok come Nov, but I fear it won't. Anyway, I'm trying to say hopeful and help where I can. --Prof S (in DC)
Professor S, thanks for your comments!
We do need hope to keep our sanity during these days of confusion and turmoil.
No longer lurking! They are flaunting their intent on destroying our experiment with democracy!
ancient Chinese curse ... may he live in...
Well, we live in the curse of interesting times along with the “he” a cursed. Proximity to the contagion
Spot on!!!! FOA= Fascists of America. Not name calling just calling it what it is.
And the leader of the Fascist Party of the United States is none other than our #SmelloYellow!
What are the so called normal Republicans afraid of besides their job ..what is really going on behind the scenes..can’t believe they won’t denounce what is happening
I have been calling it thus for months now. And I use my FB page as a platform for doing so, having succeeded in weeding out the trolls! Next, I'm going to consider a bumper sticker of some sort.
And the acronym is...Fascist PUS? Seriously though, we need to speak out loudly and broadly (not just to each other) about what “Liberty” and “Freedom” really mean in the hands of American Fascists. Freedom means they are free to make death threats to swing elections. Freedom means they can say whatever they want (who cares if it’s not true), but you can’t. Add to the list: Freedom means...
I still believe that Trump will fulfill his campaign promise to "drain the swamp" by taking all of his supporters down with him.
What are the so called normal Republicans afraid of besides their job ..what is really going on behind the scenes..can’t believe they won’t denounce what is happening
"...maybe through his speech on Friday the 6th". Let's hope that speech is a very clear and convincing sequence of statements what America and Americans stand for!
Freedom!
The rule of law!
She never promotes herself. So refreshing, so rare, so real. She's stuck with me for life.
I sure hope none of those historians offered Joe a free drink as that would give the REPUBLICAN'TS evidence of corruption for impeachment. It is so laughable when Congress person after Congress person is asked on camera what the crime for impeachment of Joe is and they have to admit, on camera, that they have nothing.
"... they have nothing". Nothing at all. Those REPUBLICANts have nothing and have had nothing but hate and corruption and vile comments ... that's all their contributions to today's government. Shame on them to be ruled by money pressure and anarchists and - yes, - fascists, not to mention tfg who should have been seriously stopped in his tracks and in jail long time ago.
They don’t need anything, just headlines
Many of the MAGANAZI's read at a 6th grade level or below, so they CAN'T read. That's why FOX NEWS and other right wing media get the message out ad nauseam.
I'm on Instagram for friends and family. I don't post anything. However, I love the interviews with wet brain Trump supporters. They are hysterical. Especially when Jordan Klemper hands their words back to them. This is where rape apologists gather. They vote. Oh the fuckery.
This is one encouraging sign from a brutal days of news...it is good to know what is happening in the world, even better to bbc "build beloved communities" in our own circles of influence.
I truly believe “building beloved communities “ is the way forward. Let’s make hate yesterday’s news. It’s never been done before, but there are some 7billion of us who could benefit from it right now.
I was wondering if Biden reads the Letters, after he announced his intent to speak at Valley Forge. That he had lunch with historians is encouraging.
Can you imagine dumpty having lunch with historians ? He’d be much happier with the fake wrestling guys.
He had lunch with a college sports ball team ... and tried to feed them lukewarm fast-food.
I remember seeing the video, and they all looked confused and disappointed.
Read it on Politico: https://www.politico.com/news/2024/01/03/historians-scholars-biden-lunch-democracy-00133765
He needs more than cerebral historians. He needs savvy media creators to infect the maga-soaked and besotted public space anr enter the mental space of the many who are not paying attention. I'm talking about youngsters who only get their news from social media. Also all the newly employed who may feel they're too busy to vote. We need anti-MAGA activists to enter MAGA space and argue against Trumpism and for the common citizen. I try, but my blood pressure rises as my blood boils from the mindless comments I read.
So I'm very glad to read that Biden is gathering ideas from the likes of HCR, but I despair from the thought that this cerebral exercise will not affect those who think with their gut (or another appendage).
No, these meetings are not mere "cerebral exercises". Biden is seeking a wide range of input so that he can better understand American needs. In fact, Biden confers with various groups so this isn't exactly a unique event. And there's an awful lot going on outside of official channels and parties that address the questions you raise. So I'd suggest enlarging the range of your reading.
I found your dismissal of historians as "cerebral" rather odd, especially applied to HCR. I find historians fascinating in the dedication they have to illuminating the present through the prism of the past- often including humor. Some of HCR's talks on video and live presentations offer good examples.
Please set aside your stereotypical view of people who spend their lives trying to illuminate our past, our history, the impacts of various factors on who and where we are. They are largely simply human beings with a vast curiousity they are willing to share with others- including us. I am grateful.
Oy vey, Annie! If I wrote in a way that implies I'm dismissive of HCR or other historians, I must apologize since that's the opposite of how I feel and what I follow and read.
What I meant to state is that though Biden's policies and speeches are rooted in a rich universe of empirically correct information (the "Bidenverse"), they are nowhere near enough to penetrate the thick shell surrounding the information-poor MAGA-verse. If you know of "influencers" that are effectively engaging with those who get their news only from social media without alienating them with cerebral thoughts that turn them off, let me know who they might be so I can follow, like, repost, or whatever it takes to amplify their message.
Jerry Helfand
6 hrs ago
Jerry this is what you wrote: "He needs more than cerebral historians....
So I'm very glad to read that Biden is gathering ideas from the likes of HCR, but I despair from the thought that this cerebral exercise will not affect those who think with their gut (or another appendage)."
That sounds pretty dismissive to me.
You also wrote about the need to reach out to the "Magaverse" on their terms. Not sure I agree with you. We've talked a lot on this (and other forums) about the fact that most of the people drawn to Trump have vested themselves in his version of reality, and are not reachable. Some quietly peel away, and become receptive to other sources of information- which is what people like us are providing. Few make it here, but are most likely to be reached by the many grass-roots projects that us ordinary citizens are involved in.
Setting the hardline Trumpists aside, there are many people out there who are simply living their lives and have not yet gotten caught up in election hysteria. They may not even have thought about voting. Those are the people our projects are reaching out to, with information about voting and raising questions about personal priorities for people to think about. We showed in 2022 the power of this kind of reaching out: it works. The election results in 2022 proved it: no red wave. Local and state offices taken by Dems. MSM scratched their heads and started looking around. They are finally getting it. This is not a horserace. Trump's "base" is not the issue. We are, and we are running on issues that matter to people's lives, and it is working. We can do it again.
There are a bunch of groups focussed on this kind of action. The entire year before the 2022 elections, there were lists posted here regularly. Maybe it's time to do that again.
Here are a few I have, but there are more.
"Hopium Chronicles", by Simon Rosenburg (substack) Support for activists with some positive things to share.
Swing Left has published their list of flippable seats in the US House along with 6 Democratic seats we need to hold. It can be found here: https://swingleft.org/p/house
Activate America (www.activateamerica.vote) : postcards to flip seats in local/state elections. Several active now.
https://votefwd.org/
Letter-writing to get out vote in critical races in other states. Just starting to organize for 2024
PostCardsToVoters Linktr.ee (https://linktr.ee/postcardstovoters) to see how to joinPostcards To Voters. If you have already joined, remember that Abby the Bot is not texting but you can get addresses via the PTV linktr.ee)
https://statesproject.org/
Focus on states rather than WaDC. Great for talking points ! Some really good pointers.
https://democracytoolkit.press/
Not just for journalists: Lots of good tips for activists for reaching out, working with press, engaging other people.
Lots of others, but there's a start. It's really us doing these small things, Jerry. They add up.
Annie, thank you for your reply. I will follow ask the links you provided.
Jerry- I so agree about the need to reach people, especially youth, through public spaces and technology. When the anti-slavery faction started using the churches, public spaces, theater etc., John C. Calhoun from South Carolina was highly upset that they were winning the "mental space" and drawing more and more people to their cause.
We have to give Trump and the Republicans credit for being some of the best spin doctors out there. As Sweet Honey in the Rock sings, "we who believe in freedom cannot rest". Let's hope that in addition to listening to cerebral historians, that Biden (and all of us) put the turret out there to counter the spin that's capitalizing on division, cruelty and hate.
I know it will be hard to switch from MAGA to fascist, for me too, and fascist doesn't pinpoint who you mean , the way MAGA does. Still, we should try to switch. Maybe ' today's fascists' or 'American fascists.'
Interesting. For a while, I was calling all Trumpists the American Taliban. There are also, as you point out, the American Fascists. Should we add the American Kleptocrats?
These tranches could probably be further subdivided into
a) knowledgeable and thus dangerous
B) clueless and thus reachable.
I do believe that labels are important because they create feedback that penetrates their bubbles. For instance, I was engaged in TikTok before the 2020 election, and the label "American Taliban" actually got responses from creators. Did that change any minds? I have no clue, but hope that a moment of introspection might would occasionally be repeated.
My reply got pasted above yours. I'm saying if American Taliban worked or at least seemed to, the experiment is worth trying again.
What about Trump Fascists or MAGA Fascists?
I love that Biden gathered this group, including the professor. The more attention focused on the very real threat of a fascist takeover, the better.
However, the president absolutely must take the immigration issue head on. The GOP is controlling the narrative to the detriment of Biden's re-election chances as well as those of Democrats running for Congress.
Biden must go big by proposing major reforms in a national address, knowing full well that the GOP will do nothing. Then he and his surrogates can hammer them repeatedly for failing to act. In this election, absolutely nothing should be left to chance.
Your suggestion is more than a little cynical, but absolutely true. Immigration law is the responsibility of Congress and the fact that there has been no reform in spite of many attempts means that it's more valuable as a bone of contention than it is a serious problem.
It's perceived as a serious problem, and I think it is too, though a much more multi-faceted one than do-nothing-but complain Republicans. Why else would Biden and the Senate be willing to spend many billions of dollars to address it? Also, the nation's immigration laws have not been seriously reformed in many years thanks to GOP shenanigans and outright deception.
Some 2.5 million authorized people entering the country last year, a record, is overwhelming the system.
Yes, the system is overwhelmed, because it is seriously underfunded, not because it doesn't work. Yes, there could be improvements made, but adequate funding alone would be a great improvement and that hasn't even been tried. Immigration has always been a good thing for the US.
All Federal immigration laws have been racist beginning with the first one in 1875 that was designed to keep Chinese women from joining the Chinese men that had been brought to the US to work.
Today's political hysteria isn't about immigration; it's about racism. When was the last time anyone wanted to talk about people crossing from Canada? When was the last time anyone wanted to talk about people arriving by airplane? If we're really interested in reforming immigration why are we only talking about the border with Mexico?
Generally agree. And yes racism is a major issue. That said, the sheer number of people arriving on foot is overwhelming various places. It's not sustainable.
Nor does it need to be; the numbers are high for a number of reasons but mainly because of pent up need from Trump's really horrific policies. Long term, the rate of immigration, especially at the southern border is highly variable.
And we must not forget how much responsibility the US has for the conditions in Central American states that drive much of the immigration from those areas.
There is a wonderful and vibrant cross border culture that is invisible to most of the rest of the US. Of course it has no political value, especially in Texas.
If you get a chance, "La Frontera with Pati Jinich" is a wonderful introduction via food and I think you can find it on You Tube
Too bad we aren’t able to read the article w/o subscribing...supporting Microsoft... any way around this ? Thanks
Substack has nothing to do with Microsoft. Becoming paid subscribers supports the authors and their work. I'm proud to support a half-dozen Substack writers, some of whom I've read for decades, and whose books I've loved.
I was able to read “expand” the article without the app or signing up.
I had no problems, either.
Without a problem ? Maybe it’s because I’m in France ?
Channeling Fern here. The text copied and pasted below:
By LAUREN EGAN and JONATHAN LEMIRE
01/03/2024 09:31 PM EST
"President Joe Biden hosted a small group of scholars and historians for lunch on Wednesday as he gears up for a speech framing the upcoming election as a battle for the nation’s democracy.
The discussion revolved around “ongoing threats to democracy and democratic institutions both here in America and around the world, as well as the opportunities we face as a nation,” the White House said in a statement.
Princeton’s Eddie Glaude Jr. and Sean Wilentz, Harvard’s Annette Gordon-Reed, Yale’s Beverly Gage and Boston College’s Heather Cox Richardson were among the attendees, as well as presidential biographer — and occasional Biden speech writer — Jon Meacham.
Attendees were tight-lipped about what was discussed at the gathering. One would only go so far as to say they “talked about American history and its bearing on the present — a lively exchange of ideas.”
Another person in the room, who like the others was not authorized to speak publicly about a private meeting, said the historians urged the president “to call out the moment for what it is.” In blunt terms, the academics discussed looming threats to the nation’s democracy and warned about the slow crawl of authoritarianism around the globe.
Biden listened intently and asked questions, the participant said. “This is something that he cares about deeply,” the person said.
Over the course of his presidency, Biden has periodically convened groups of top scholars and historians for big-picture conversations about his legacy, as well as existential threats to the country. Wednesday’s lunch meeting comes ahead of Biden’s speech this Friday in Valley Forge, Pa., marking the third anniversary of the Jan. 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol.
“This is something that he tends to do, especially as we head towards an important day like Jan. 6,” press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said during Wednesday’s press briefing.
The subject matter is familiar for Biden. He has repeatedly declared that he vowed to run for president after watching the racist demonstrators march on Charlottesville, Va., in 2017 when then-President Donald Trump declared there were good people “on both sides” of the protests. He called that race a battle for the “very soul of the nation” and now believes the stakes are higher.
Biden watched the U.S. Capitol insurrection of Jan. 6, 2021, from his transition headquarters in Wilmington, Del. He had hoped that the riot would bring the Trump era to an end. But since then, the former president has tightened his grip on the Republican Party. Biden has repeatedly warned that the dangers of anti-democratic forces have grown, using his speeches to mark the two previous anniversaries of the insurrection — one delivered from the Capitol.
The president also made it central to his efforts to aid Democrats in 2022’s midterm elections — which included a speech at Philadelphia’s Independence Hall — and credited it in part for the party’s surprisingly strong showing. He returned to the theme last year at the McCain Institute and will revisit it at another historically symbolic venue this weekend at the headquarters of General George Washington’s Continental Army during the American Revolution.
Eugene Daniels contributed reporting."
Ally-Thanks for sharing this...it's so interesting how as they say "history rhymes". In 1860 BEFORE Lincoln was inaugurated seven states seceded from the Union and engaged in insurrection/rebellion (now called the Civil War) against the government. In 2020, the losing presidential candidate planned and incited an insurrection to stop the "peaceful transfer of power" BEFORE Biden was inaugurated. Violence reigned both times. Insurrectionists continue their quest to divide so they can conquer.
Kudos to Biden for inviting discussion about our past and how it impacts on our present and future. The group of scholars mentioned are seasoned and diverse in numerous ways. What an interesting conversation it must have been...
May Americans who really care about this country (and not just their own power/privilege) rise up to stem the tide of fascism now aimed at us by people-foreign and domestic-who want to tear down the possibilities of "perfecting our union".
Thanks, Ally
Thanks
I’ve added another link to my comment that may get you around whatever is blocking you.
I’m not signed in and am able to read it. I do subscribe, so I can’t test it otherwise. Maybe others will chime in.
Thanks Gary ... it also looks as if there are few right-wingers who also read - or at least subscribe to Politico.
Trolls, likely
This is where we reach the crossroads between journalism and history. I don’t know if I should worry that HCR is becoming close to the current president. The role of an historian may augur in favor of such a relationship, but I do worry about potential loss of objectivity.
If one doesn't "objectively" see Trump and the MAGA movement as a violent threat to our nation and its fragile democratic experiment, then one is a fascist or an accessory to a fascist - at the very least an unwitting accomplice.
William, in a perfect world where we would be discussing something like old school conservative philosophies vs old school liberal social policies - I would strongly agree with your concern. Historians should provide historical facts and interesting, helpful perspectives. Teach - not pontificate.
But this is now a war. This is Germany in the early 20th century. These historians are reminding President Biden that he is at the center of our effort to stop fascism in its tracks.
The old two party system is gone. The old friendly debates between colleagues of different persuasions are impossible now. The glove has slapped the face of our Constitution. Choose your non-lethal weapon.
Historians and everyone else: climb aboard the Democratic train or prepare to live in a totalitarian nightmare. Prepare to watch the US descend into an attack on our environment and the existence of millions of species - including our own. We're talking about survival here. Not just political philosophies. I hope Heather and her colleagues MAKE some history.
We have one of our major political parties that no longer believes in constitutional government, and they are willing to blow it all up to retain whatever they think they deserve to have. We definitely are at a cross between authoritarianism and self-government. We must save ourselves with as much knowledge and information we have. No one else will do it.
You make some entirely legitimate points. When faced with an existential threat, I guess we need to be more flexible. Thank you for your comment.
Bill,
Very, very well said. Thank you.
It’s the other way around: she has his ear. It is beneficial for a sitting president to receive and heed the big picture lessons and insights of history and historians.
I appreciate President Biden’s heeding the lessons of history and teaming with historians to understand what lessons our past holds for our future. That is intelligent and shows thoughtful action.
Well stated! All to many ‘historians’ who become chummy with a President say out loud what should be confidential between the two parties!
She is on the side of America. I think Joe is too.
Recall Doris Kearns (missing a name) fawned over that grade B actor Ronnie (Nancy what should I do) Reagan!
I don't worry about the objectivity of historians per se. Woodward, for example, being given direct access to Trump, becomes a source of information to historians, and deliberation on Woodward's objectivity isn't much different from a historian's deliberation on their own ability to remain objective.
Thank you Gary for reporting this event. Our voices have found a way to President through Professor. I hope Biden will schedule another one soon.
At this point, decrepit Joe Biden is merely a placeholder. Will Gavin Newsom replace the hapless Kamala as his running mate?
Meanwhile, Trump is dying a death of a thousand cuts in our legal system. Are the pair of them -- Trump and Biden -- emblematic of America as the geriatric global thug who can't get it up anymore?
Biden will be the Democratic nominee, the way things are shaping up. If you think he’s decrepit, please watch a video of him being interviewed, any video. You’ll see someone who’s very capable. It’s democracy (Biden and Harris) or fascism (tRump and whatever sellout stands in to the VP slot). Your choice.
"Corporate Joe " Biden, the election-stealing Vampire Liberal, is neo-fascism. Thete is no choice, except which flavor of fascism you prefer.
Watching Biden at a scripted, pre-packaged interview isn't the real test.
"Recent gaffes by President Joe Biden have 'made a significant impact' on the polls and are 'reinforcing fears within Democratic ranks' that he's too old to serve a second White House term, according to one political scientist."
https://www.newsweek.com/joe-bidens-gaffes-are-getting-harder-ignore-1830312
Your response has all of the hallmarks of trolling. You will probably have the last word. To others, don’t feed the troll.
You're correct, that one has been a sporadic but long-time troll on here, with a pattern of repetitively posting the same links or phrases onto others' comments in the same issue.
Simply continue to decline to engage in a battle of wits with an unarmed opponent."
Your response has all the hallmarks of a party-line talking pointer who has nothing to say in opposition to my documented point.
https://www.newsweek.com/joe-bidens-gaffes-are-getting-harder-ignore-1830312
Propaganda shills like HCR use phrases like "faith in our electoral system," as if it was our civic duty to BELIEVE that Biden didn't steal the nomination from Bernie Sanders.
Dishonest propaganda shills like HCR never talk about that old Democratic classic "Votescam: The Stealing of America":
https://books.google.com/books/about/Votescam.html?id=ZxpZCgAAQBAJ