For the first time since 1859, the Marine Corps does not have a confirmed commandant. For five months, Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) has held up the confirmation of about 250 Pentagon officers in protest of the Defense Department’s policy of enabling military personnel to travel to obtain abortion care. So when Commandant General David Berger retired today, there was no confirmed commandant to replace him. Assistant Commandant General Eric Smith will serve as the acting commandant until the Senate once again takes up military confirmations.
I could swear this is a democratic republic. I must be nuts because Tuberville, a single person, has stopped this country from functioning. How is this possible? Who were the idiots that came up with this very undemocratic idea? Why do we allow this sheer stupidity to continue?
I think Republicans to claim that President Joe Biden has weaponized DOJ, Department of Education, and FBI is a plot to deny any legal implications that Donald Trump and his allies are implicated in. It is a ploy to create a common ground of saying "after all Democrats can do what we are capable of undemocratically." For the last 8 years since Donald Trump came to White House, Republican Party has become a threat to the very basic democracy principles given their radical obstructionist tactics. MAGA Republicans have always had anti-democratic ideals:
1. Wanting to support third term for Trump
2. Believing in election claims by Donald Trump
3. Make voting as hard as possible
4. Rejecting election Congressional results.
Over the last years, Republicans haven't yet to stick to the constitutional compromise on principle (as advocated by the founders of the country). Rather, they would prefer to religiously use their political ideological guns and not change any tact to give room for the work to be done. Their obstructionism in Congress is alarmingly rising and so far it has rendered government departments ineffective, with public trust in government decreasing. Unfortunately, in some cases, Republican has led to Democratic Party being polarized as a response to the GOP behaviour. Republican obstructionism has become a bait for their political coexistence. Senator Tuberville is sticking to usual GOP's political playbook.
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My next newsletter; how America is losing its grip on Africa to China
I often enjoy his commentaries, but the preaching style and the endless advertising of his wares i think is misplaced here. Some might think he's trolling the commentaries.
As per the Global Party Survey on OECD countries (countries considered as democratic), Republican Party has been extreme outlier and shares the same attributes with anti-democratic and radical right wing parties like Turkey's AKP (jailed journalists) and PiS in Poland which has threated judges who make contrary verdicts to what they want by promising them criminal punishment.
From African perspective in Third Wave Democracies, parties with historic anti-democratic ideals include NRM led by President Museveni where opposition leaders are jailed (Kizza Besigye and Bobi Wine have been arrested many times), with the party banning social media. In Tanzania, CCM has no room for civil rights (opposition leader Tundu Lissu was shot many times in his home), with human rights abuses being high on the list. In 2021, when the late John Pombe Magufuli was ill with heart-related complications resulting from COVID-19 that he denied fervently about its existence, one of the persons who questioned his health status was arrested.
The bottom line for West Africa: The civil unrest will worsen as climate change brings drought and hunger. You can’t fix this by digging deeper wells. . .
Hello. I wholeheartedly agree with 99% of your comment and I am in no way a supporter of Trump or the out of control Republicans. But, it is not clear whether before Biden the Democrats used dirty tricks and the DOJ and FBI to undermine their opponents, especially through Hillary. See the Twitter files by Matt Taibi. Innocence is elusive.
Republican behavior pushed Democratic Party to somehow adopt the same polarising tactics, but they aren't aggressive as those of the GOP. I will check the Twitter files. Thanks @Michael Green
Sure. Someone reminded me that I should as well expound on how China is defrauding Africa's resources (an issue for another day). But, many do not know what led to America losing Africa to China. Also, do you know that tomorrow, Iranian President will visit Africa by starting with Kenya? What does this mean to Africa and US and Europe? I will reveal. Thanks
But perhaps best on your own substack, Edwin. Heather is a specialist in American political history who puts a lot of time and effort into a remarkable series of columns whose purpose is to explain American history and how it created who we are today. It is considered impolite to use someone else's place to beat your own drum. I am glad to know of your substack, but will not subscribe so long as you persist in highjacking Dr Richardson's space.
I agree Molly. This is not the only stupidity of Congressional 'rules'. You can add the rule that allows the Speaker of the House and the Senate majority leader the sole responsibility to determine which bills are sent to committee and which are "tabled for the duration. This gives dictatorial power to a single person in each house for whom only citizens of one State or worse, one District in one State were even given a vote. Then there is the Senate filibuster. All these imbecilic rules came about because at the time the Constitution was written there were no strong political parties. As the Democrats and Republicans grew stronger they set these dumb rules. These rules are not laws. They were not voted on, passed and signed into law by the President. They are rules made by a committee. Like all rules they can be broken. It just takes courage, a virtue lacking in either house.
I agree Molly, I'm just not sure how to go about achieving this. It's quite obvious neither House of Congress is willing to "police" itself. Look how often in the last few years we've tried to get rid of the filibuster. Perhaps a very large, very peaceful gathering of people at the Congress building politely demanding an end to these authoritarian rules?
It’s not the Constitution that has failed--it’s the citizens who: 1. Don’t live up to civic duty, putting their little agendas ahead of the Greater Good; 2. Have not been corralled with deterring punishments already on the books. We have let criminals, petty and serious traitors, get away with obstructive sedition; 3. The SCrOTUS is corrupted and has passed laws aimed to help neonazi fascist billionaires become Puppet Masters of Quisling, corrupt Repugs. The RNC/GOP operates as a crime syndicate and “Citizens United” must be revoked.
We need change in Washington, and 22 Republican control states. But we also need a rewrite of the constitution to prevent this from happening again, resolve the supreme court term limits, undo what SCOTUS has done in the past 8 years.
The Massachusetts legislature suffers from the same ills. It is a smaller version of Washington. And it doesn't help that Democrats are in charge of both houses: party affiliation doesn't seem to matter when it comes to the corrupt wielding of power.
The way it works, for better or worse, is that the Senate creates rules of conduct and then abides by and (too often in recent years) interprets those rules in ways that are both unethical and (therefore?) downright destructive to its major role in our constitutional republic. We can’t just look at the willful chaos of the House, but need to apply pressure to our Senators. Chuck Schumer and Co recently did this nation a huge disservice when they refused to press votes on Military Promotions in Tuberville’s absence. A gentleman’s agreement with a snake? You bring a big club or a cage to deal with a snake.
I’m from Georgia and I personally worked long hours to elect Senators Ossoff and Warnock, and I’m still exhausted from that effort. I’m on hiatus from active work, and overwhelmed with family and health, and I have hope.. but it’s not enough.
But.. I still live by this, and I encourage you all to do what you can with whatever you got. Make the calls to your electeds to keep the pressure on. Donate the money and/or time to Expand the Majority. And most importantly, support each other. We’re stronger together. Our voices.
Penny, thank you so much for all your efforts to elect Osshoff and Warnock. I did what I could from here in MN but I know how much blood, sweat and sheer effort it took on the ground. (Been there. Done that.)
Take care of yourself and your family and know how much you are appreciated in my small blue corner of the North. Without you and thousands like you, our situation would be that much more devastating. I see you and appreciate you!
Penny, I understand your exhaustion. I have been there many times. Your long hours put forth to get two very important people elected was not in vain. So I want to thank you and everyone else for bringing some sanity to our nation. Be well.
Penny, agree with others here to take care of yourself…what is the saying?….put your own oxygen mask on first before assisting others. Well, here’s to light breezes of clear, fresh oxygen and energy coming your way to replenish you.
Penny, I echo everyone's thanks for your service. You've beautifully expressed the exhaustion of activism. We're all down to fumes—but a post like yours makes me want to keep doing SOMETHING every day.
It was one of the mistakes that the Founding Fathers made (if in fact this is their idea.) The other mistake is the makeup of the Electoral College and the assignment of two U.S. Senators per state. Those eighteenth century inhabitants of thirteen colonies along our eastern seaboard could not imagine what the U.S. would become. As it stands right now, California has two U.S. Senators with a population of 40 million, equal to that of sixteen other states in the Midwest, with thirty-two Senators. That imbalance, along with the Filibuster, could be the cause for the demise of the Union.
They did what they needed to do to create a nation that would hold together because under the Article of Confederation, it was not. That meant compromises that are biting us now especially the electoral college. Slavery was the elephant in the room and I recommend reading LaPore's These Truths, a fairly recent book on US history. She explains in detail what went on at the constitutional convention. As for the two Senators for every state, I am not bothered by that since the House is based on population. I am bothered by gerrymandering and voter suppression, the electoral college, Citizens United, rules that allow what Tuberville is doing, and here in Oregon, quorums. And of course, the Supreme Court which proves that elections matter and purity often gets in the way of the hard and slow work of progress. And then there is climate change. I thought the pictures of the floods looked apocalyptic. 1000 year floods, not anymore.
Excellent points. I will check out LaPore's book. In return, to help understand today's racist, Fascist Republican Party, James Loewen's book, "Lies My Teacher Told Me," and "Stony the Road" by Henry Louis Gates, Jr., about Reconstruction and the rise of Jim Crow are very informative. It would be interesting to read an American history book written by a Native American.
There are quite a few. Seminal is Vine DeLoria's "Custer Died For Your Sins"- and his many other writings.
Anything by N. Scott Momaday, whose work includes novels and memoir, and deep insight into indigenous culture.
Here are a few others from my shelves:
Covered With Night: A Story of Murder and Indigenous Justice in Early America by Nicole Eustace, Liveright, 464 pages.
Roxanne Dunbar-Ortiz, An Indigenous Peoples’ History of the United States.
Winona LaDuke, All Our Relations: Native Struggles for Land and Life, an excellent primer on the movement to reclaim tribal lands, and Recovering the Sacred: The Power of Naming and Claiming, which looks at traditional beliefs and practices.
Louise Erdrich, Leslie Marmon Silko, Sherman Alexie, Paula Gunn Allenthe list is long. You will find history along with memoir, fiction, and poetry. This list is a little dated, but a little research will unveil the rich literature, both academic and popular, both fiction and non-fiction, that can help you understand history from the various indigenous perspectives.
I also suggest checking out the magazine High Country News (my favorite mag). It is focused primarily on issues that affect the mountains and high plains, but has an annual issue focused on American indigenous affairs, and continuing coverage in it's other issues, including reviews of books about Indigenous people written by indigenous people.
Thanks for the book tips. I have an order coming from Powells, but it's full of mysteries and my own historical interests which has long included Elizabethan England, English history in general (currently reading a bio of George III), and now Sumer and the ancient middle east. There is an author who focuses on Native Americans, but he is a Finnish Oxford don. Some Native Americans criticize him, but I still recommend his books including Lakota America and Indigenous Continent. Sometimes I am so affected by books that I have to put them down.
Good. I really enjoyed it. I found one error early in the book having to do with English history, but on the whole, it is excellent. She describes Bill Clinton as a rascal which did make me smile.
The weather..... is the WAKE UP !! CALL, for MANKIND ! ITS NOT " Pretty Mother Nature" This is ( FATHER) GOD ! Saying: CONSIDER My WORD ! ......... and BE READY ! ARE YOU ??
I have no idea what you are responding to. Why all the all caps? The climate change we are seeing now is largely human caused. I also notice your refer to the masculine father. While you are free to believe whatever you want, many here have different religious beliefs or no religious beliefs. Many people here have also given thought to their personal life styles and try to do what they can not to add to our climate problems.
MICHELE I am SORRY , that I have OFFENDED YOU, in Information I Post ! I use CAPS, to amplify My statements. My speak, is usually for the MANKIND, of this WORLD . Yes, there is umpteen Religions, BUT, There is ONLY ONE JESUS ! GODS WORD, ( JESUS SPEAKING) states: NONE, Come unto the FATHER ( GOD} But BY ME ! GOD , did give US !.... ALL FREEWILL ! Its ALL, Our OWN CHOCE ! BLESSINGS ! & I AM !, SORRY !!
To me all caps is shouting. I can see that you are a firm believer in Christianity and that's fine with me. However, as I said people have all kinds of way of approaching spirituality and you say in all caps that there is only one. I do not appreciate seeing this on this particular blog. I do accept your apology, but please henceforth, do not preach to me.
You speak the truth, David. I feel like I'm holding my breath, waiting for Trump's stolen documents to show up in the wrong hands and come back and slap the US in the face. It seems that the National Archives was asleep on the job in letting those documents get so far afield. (And even if the documents are retrived, what about copies?)
I think that you are right about the stolen documents. Is it merely coincidental that some of Putin's close associates started dying mysteriously last summer? Was that info on them taken from the documents that Trump turned over to Putin and which are now missing? I think that U.S. Intelligence knows but hasn't said anything yet. It's a case of treason.
Great comment, those are my thoughts, EXACTLY!! It's even more outrageous that the dumbest, most ignorant Senator (Tuberville) in the Senate, is behind this.
Did anyone see his interview last night on CNN with Caitlin Collins? He truly is STUPID. He’s a perfect example to use with the insulting term “dumb jock.” He and Jordan should not be allowed to harm our military and waste our tax money with their pathetic antics to prove they are “Christian men.” Yuk!
Dont watch cable anymore - so she interviewed Tuberville now? Frankly, I thought she was a decent journalist BEFORE she interviewed the dumpster. This just solidifies my opinion. Dont these characters get enough airtime on Faux?
In addition to the obsolete rules the Senate follows, rules that incorrectly assume all Senators are ladies or gentlement deserving of respect, that's what happens when a State's voters think being an SEC football coach is great training for the Senate.
The problem of political "gridlock": based on senate representation numbers and polarization. Extremism has its political day. As long as GOP can elect a large minority or small majority, that's it, folks! The smorgasbord throw everything into the daily adversary buffet (Jorden et al) has often served the GOP well, the truth be damned. Misinformation is GOP DNA, not unusual in the "realpolitik" tradition. Rule with demonization of your enemies, emotions sway. 2024 may be very tough. I read a recent stats report that the youth (say up to 30+) support, so vital for Dem advances, is stalled or in decline, and hold out against Biden. Anyone want to help with info here would be appreciated. Dems must organize and message/engage loud and clear... and persistently
I have not seen that decline in young voters. They were have been energized by the lawlessness of the Repubs. They have Victor Shi who is a college student whose life changed in the Parkland shootings. There is also David Hogg, who Marjorie Three Names harrassed, who is active. Maxwell Frost, the youngest member of the House ever elected. The younger generation is tired of the bullshit about guns and other legislations not getting passed. They are organized and ready for battle. I look forward to their leadership.
In many ways each senator is like a Saudi Prince, in that they have to power to cause pain without any repercussions. I say defund the senate! Let them pay for their daily delivery of ice to their offices!
You know what? In my ever, so small capacity, from here on end, when I see devastating weather from climate change hitting Tuberville’s constituents, I’m giving a shout out to Mother Nature. ‘You go, Gurl! Wipe them and their oil industries off the map . . . And take Tubby with you.’
Unfortunately, most of his constituents and many people elsewhere attribute weather to God. You know how God has punished all those atheists in CA with wildfires. I have often wondered how that holds up when these people are in the middle of a weather catastrophe. Have they sinned? I also notice that while Rs love to criticize the federal government, they always call for federal help in severe weather damage. I watched the rampaging rivers in the Northeast last night and listened to people say that they have never seen anything like it. How many equate what is happening with what humans are doing. I try to be hopeful, but it is becoming increasingly difficult. So, I take pleasure in small things like making marion berry (type of blackberry here in Oregon) jam yesterday. And I will be picking this am and putting away my dried garlic for the year.
We need to embrace the God angle more. I mean, Rick DeSantis comes up with all this anti immigrant, anti trans stuff, and Florida has an invasion of giant, hermaphroditic snails. How can you look at that and not say "verily, this is the finger of God?"
I didn't know about the snails. Well, what to do. Stumpy Boots DeSatan must be in a stir about these snails...time for a law forbidding them to read to children or put in a show in a bar.
We have a Bartlett and a couple of Asian pear trees. I love oysters, but they have to be cooked. Crab is OK, but not enough for me to buy it fresh and pick it.
Annie, I grew up in Medford with dozens of pear orchards all over. Fresh pears (especially the Bartlett and the Bosc) are absolutely wonderful. I'll take your word on the pear butter; I really don't care for either of them (it's a texture thing).
You forgot that that is where I grew up, too! I love fresh pears (and peaches, too), but will settle for canned if I have to. Bartlett good for cooking, not so much for eating fresh. Bosc is top of the line eating pear. When I moved to VT, pear trees were rare, and produced erratically because of spring weather frost and cool summers. Thing of the past. Wish I'd taken the chance then and planted some pear trees. There is a neglected relict pear behind a neighbor's house that produces a good crop almost every year now. Thinking maybe next year I'll plant a couple dwarf pear trees (bosc for sure, maybe anjou or comice) and and see if I live long enough to harvest some nice pears. Come to think of it, if I look around, maybe I could find some potted on sale and start now!
If I ever get out there, we need to get together for a good seafood dinner!
I hadn't made jam in years and then I made a batch last year. I may make another batch and use some spices in it....depends on how many berries I can get. I give a lot of them away. The first good picking always goes to our neighbor who then makes a pie and it was delicious. I also have a big fennel bulb that i am going to roast as part of lunch.
During the pandemic I returned to some small jam making by picking crabapples from a nearby tree and cooking up some jam. It turned out therapeutic as well as tasty. I just couldn't listen to that voice on the news any longer!
Marion berries were developed at Oregon State University {College then}, named after Marion County, and one of it's parents was the Himalayan Blackberry we all hate until the berries are ripe.
I am smiling. He/She/It is also responsible for touchdowns, baskets, interceptions, etc. Every time I see this, I always say God doesn't give a damn about sports.
Sometimes being the first to come up with a new idea, like democracy, has drawbacks. The compromises necessary to incorporate all the states has led to this dysfunctional version of democracy. I doubt we could rewrite the thing today, but maybe in some wiser future we might. So much is wrong with the Constitution as it stands.
Tuberville’s blackmail of the military illustrates how flawed the Senate is. A Senate rule in essence grants one of its members grandstanding sway over key appointments to the services at a most dangerous time in the world.
Imagine if each of the 100 senators decided based on personal whims to act this way? Also, it’s more evidence that the GOP has no interest in governing, only obstructing.
Tuberrville is a freshman with zero political capital at risk over his granstanding.. But it's likely he wi[[ pay a price - no commitee appointments, ever, and no co-sponsors on any legislation he has the unselfconscious hubris to propose. Tuberville is a nobody, persona non grata, a honunculus. It's a joke to call him a "senator"
That's giving him too much credit. As the drill instructor at MCRD San Diego said to us as we stood on the yellow footprints, waiting to board the bus, we were not Marines, we were not civilians, we were "lower than whale sh*t". The phrase, applied to Tuberville, would elevate him. I can only hope the people of Alabama do not make the humiliating mistake of returning him to office.
Tuberville was elected because he was a popular coach in a football-centric state. He had minimal political experience, and has proven to be intellectually inferior to his fellow Senators. To allow his grandstanding to hold up vital military operations is incomprehensible.
The military will just work around this homunculus’s obstacles (Acting Commander) rendering his position useless conferring all the power back to the Executive Branch for now.
The military just appointed an “acting commander” to fill the role of the retiring commander. Basically moving ahead without the Senate’s confirmation hearing. If the Senate refuses to take up confirmation hearings, they will proceed without their consent until the Senate starts to act like Adults.
Yes, he is a nobody. A dumb hick that once coached a football team. I also agree that it is a joke to call this bum a ''Senator'' He and Marjorie Traitor Goon would make a good pair. They are exactly alike. Dumber and Dumbest.
The folks in Alabama chose "Coach" Tuberville instead of their former Senator. It's no wonder the rest of the country considers the people of the South ignorant and stupid.
In the South, anyone associated with college football, especially a head coach, is a god. That kind of name recognition is priceless. Is he capable? Who cares?
I am beginning to agree with this assessment, John. At first I thought they MTG and Tuberville were simply ideologues, but, even if they are, they're stupid ones, clueless, or else carelessly indifferent.
All ANY GOPig is required to do is: 1. Create an obstruction; 2. Fund raise based upon their pettiness. No governance required--only pandering to their fascist, neonazi Corporate Handlers . In Tubby’s case, that would include Charles KKKoch.
Mr. Kelly help me understand how he (Tuberville) got to the position of holding up military confirmations. Is it Senate policy? Was there a vote? And is it possible for other senators to relieve him of this ability? If so, I'll contact my senators.....
I don't pretend to understand the arcane rules of the Senate. My limited understanding is that what Tuberville is doing isn't normal. He's preventing these nominations from reaching the floor by "unanimous consent" because he's a newbie, he doesn't understand the meaning of "comity", and he's an ass -- a bad combination. AFAIK the rest of the Senate could get around Tuberville by actually voting to bring these nominations to the floor. Maybe McConnell and Schumer aren't scheduling such a vote in order to give Tuberville enough rope to hang himself? I don't know.
The most fitting definition is Fascist. They want to establish a white theocratic autocracy. This is the KKK at work. Get Timothy Egan's book, "A Fever in the Heartland," about the rise of the KKK in the Midwest in the early 1920's. Today's activities are no different, nor are the motivations. Remember Charlottesville in 2017, with the marchers shouting "Jews will not replace us." That's Klan talk and they're doing it today, too, just as they did in the 1920's.
And I would like to add if you have Amazon Prime for free watch, "Shiny Happy People". It is about the Duggers nineteen and counting, the Institute of Basic Life Principles, (IBLP), Bill Gothard. I watched it and had a nightmare during the night. It is so scary to think what these people are doing! There were 5 episodes.
John, whatever we call them, let’s get them the hell out of our democracy. They are an insidious lot, no matter how absurd they are. Brainless derelicts and despots. Thanks!
I totally agree, they are an insidious lot that don't have any business in our democracy. Calling them unqualified would be an understatement. They are much worse than that. Gullible people, especially here in the South would likely vote a baboon into office if that were possible. They are also responsible for that Goon, Marjorie Traitor Goon is in our Congress. There are some sensible people here in Georgia, but there are way too many ignorant and gullible hicks here in GA also. And they love and worship Donald TUMP too...
I read an article today in Scientific America that had the results of a study on the cognitive attributes and brain size of dinosaurs. It found that they rated these traits equivalent to a baboon. Seems like Tuberville does not come close to baboons.
It’s all about tearing down the country by rendering the government ineffective so that a trumpian dictator can be installed. That would effectively keep control in the hands of oligarchs indefinitely.
For the first half of this letter I was reading with pure horror. I guess these are some points of hope:
— “Independent voters, who tend to swing US elections that have become so close, don’t buy into the Trump line. You don’t see support for this unhinged view that the justice department and the FBI are somehow corrupt. There’s not support for that except in the fringe of the Republican party." - Larry Jacobs, Center for the Study of Politics and Governance at the University of Minnesota,
— "A new group called Win It Back, tied to the right-wing Club for Growth, which has ties to the Koch network, will run anti-Trump ads starting tomorrow. Americans for Prosperity, linked to billionaire Charles Koch, will also run ads opposing Trump." Alex Isenstadt, Politico
I'm glad the Rs are starting to turn on each other but it's a really uneasy feeling to have to root for anything Koch does.
This uplifted me a bit, from the NYT this morning: Conservative columnist Bret Stephens retracts his former bullishness on DeFascist after seeing that twisted anti-LGBTQ+ video:
"I guess my main takeaway is that DeSantis isn’t going to be the next president. He makes Trump seem tolerant, Ted Cruz seem likable, Mitch McConnell seem moderate, Lauren Boebert seem mature and Rick Santorum seem cool. Not what I would have expected out of the Florida governor six months ago, but here’s where I confess: You (journalist Gail Collins) were right about him, and I was wrong."
Do you have any plans for making this journalistic platform your focus as a writer? You seem to have the tools and experience and youth working towards becoming an iconic force in contemporary American Journalism. With your philosophic balance weighing decidedly towards progress your alliance with mainstream thinking makes you a candidate for bridging some of the chasms as we move forward. Fifty years from now will a student reach into the cloud and pull out Alexandra Sokoloff the iconic writer who’s work illuminated American political discourse and use it to enhance her doctoral thesis?
That's absurdly flattering, Pat Cole! I hang out here because the level of dialogue amongst the commenters, including you, rises to the level HCR is achieving with her historical analysis. I used to be able to talk politics and political action with friends and readers on Facebook but the Zuck has shut down any amplification of political posts (at least leftist political posts). I've been so grateful to find that political analysis here!
And I'm here listening and looking for more ways to engage social and political action (and simple compassion) through my fiction. I have way more training and tools to reach people through novels and film. And that's my living, so there's that!
As my plane descended into Binh Hoa in 1971, I witnessed the marvel of grass huts surrounded by sandbags. From then to now I have been in this forum. While I had nothing to say as I hid in the darkness for years, HCR appeared on my Facebook. I had no idea who she was but she made sense. When I dumped “Zuck” I got the bright idea to search the ether. There I found this enclave. The people here are the Americans. Jan. will make two years. The voices here on LFAA reassure me of the survival of the American intellect.
Pat, agree! Reasoned dialog with intelligent, thoughtful folks….maybe of nuanced or differing opinions, but willing to share, listen, learn and amend ones’ stance if the evidence so indicates. Love HCR’s Substack, but equally love the dialog of the commenters in response/and in reply to listed comments. Maybe a sort of internet ‘Salon’ of the type held in days gone by.
To my friends whom I am yet to meet, Alexandra, Pat and Barbara, I most enjoyed your little colloquy as I cruised through Heather's excellent post this evening and the comments thereafter. I agree with all of you, and wish you all a good night!
I begin my day at 5 AM by walking my dog through a still sleeping midwestern neighborhood. Then I come home, open my laptop, and read HCR's posting for the day, which wakens my mind. Then when I read the comments, I feel my blood begin to stir: the lively, intelligent, back and forth discussion of the day's issues. Finally, I am fully awake, glad and grateful to be present among others with bright minds and good sense.
My love affair with HCR started the afternoon I chanced upon her Facebook talk, early in the pandemic shutdown. There she was, backed by shelf after shelf of old books - primary sources? Then I found her daily LFAA, then I discovered this forum. I don’t often comment, but I read every word written here and, for better or worse, you have become my invisible friends. Thank you.
After watching this ad I was struck by the lack of any kind of policy position, other than “beat the Dems”. It’s as if policy is unimportant, but you all know what we want *wink wink*. With no GOP platform what exactly are they supporting? Some vague “anyone but the other team/party” emotion? Sadly I live among many of them.
The GOP has not written a party platform since 2016 and then it was one to favor tfg, so it’s no wonder republicans never mention any policies they want to put forward. When did they ever say what would replace the ACA once they repealed it? How can the party develop any cogent plans for the country when it’s in a constant state of internecine war?
I was baffled by this ad, too, and tried to write something about it, but couldn't pin down my unease enough to explain it. Your words come close. It wasn't "beat the dems": that was him explaining his initial feelings about Trump and his chaos. Then a vague segue to after the election and realizing that we need someone who is will work on the issues. "If we vote for Trump, we'll lose all that". I think it is a low-key way of reaching Trump supporters with doubts without coming out and saying vote for Dems. Or maybe it is a low-key way of saying let's find some body other than Trump to run. "Issues" were not defined, just alluded to. You never win hearts by hitting somebody over the head. Just feel something didn't quite jell. But I guess it's a start.
I wouldn’t further the distribution of this 'we've got to win' crap. Win what? No policies, no direction, no moral underpinning of any kind, just Trump's too distracted to win, so (implied) let's find someone who can. What kind of shit is that? Koch coke for the ambivalent.
Alexandra, I was surprised and also uplifted to read Stephen’s apt description of my governor…sigh.
Thanks for the link. The ad provides great opportunity for Dems to counter ➡️ “ Build teams to solve issues. Focus on the issues that really need to be fixed”.
As I read, Alexandra, the expression “circular firing squad” leapt to mind. Koch is part of the reason we are at this lamentable point in our history…..yes, a very uneasy feeling. He will support DeSatan if he and his ilk believe that buffoon can install fascism, lock, stock and barrel (sorry for the gun allusion….).
Elisabeth, I've been using "cage fight" but I like "circular firing squad" — so much more definitively lethal! DeFascist DeSatan is tanking, but I'm basically not going to breathe until the election.
While the Koch network may run ads against Trump, those people are anti-democracy to their core. Who is helping to fund that No Labels bs. The enemy of our enemy is NOT our friend.
The facts are against all of the above Republican groups (not talking about the independents, who indeed have their own issues).
The Trumpers are just crazy. The Growth-ers and Prosperity-ers are all science deniers, and probably even support off shoring if it benefits the uber wealthy short term. These people can't grawk things like the Inflation Reduction Act. Nor could they possibly understand if I ran for office and campaigned on a carbon-fee to combat global warning and speed the transition to renewable energy and electrification! (Not going to happen, though :-).)
Matt, exactly. The level of ignorance makes it simply impossible to argue with them. But maybe, hopefully, those anti-Trump ads might peel off some of the less completely insane.
Peter, almost took issue with “but the Earth can wait”….my immediate impulse was to scream “no it can’t”……took me a nanosecond to get back into my body and realize, of course, the Earth CAN wait….it is patient, we humans are not. As I understand it, the Earth as we know it (allowing for shifting continents/tectonic plates/etc) is good, give or take, for another 5 billion years….so we’re about 1/2 way through our shelf life. You’re right, we cannot wait to act lest WE be no more….and, increasingly, I fear that will be so. Oh, I have images of pockets of Homo sapiens (to evolve into what next over the few millennia if any of us survive?) adapting to the loss of critical habitats & species (our fellow Earth inhabitants). First & second world society members want our “stuff” and conveniences & ease & consumption w/o regard to what the final bill will be….I don’t think we have the means to pay what is due. Maybe, just maybe, if we get on a massive global (with first & second tier countries stepping up big time) cooperation, throwing our best & brightest & best (thoughtfully considered) technology to mitigate the harm already in the pipeline, we might have a chance. The stories our decedents will tell of the marvels of the past will be stuff of legend…I just hope it is not going to be “rinse, repeat”.
I remember seeing a cartoon of Earth at the doctor. Doc said “Oh, you’ve just got a case of the humans. That will have to run its course; there really isn’t a cure for that organism.”
One of my faves is an old Gary Larsen where God is in his laboratory creating the Earth…there it sits on the lab table, almost complete, and God is holding a container like a salt shaker tipped above it. The caption is something like “to make it more interesting” and the label on the shaker says “jerks”.
Barbara, this summer in New England has been unreal. And brought home to me that we really have less time than even the experts predicted: because we thought people would pay attention, governments would act.
The best- the *best*- we can hope for now is that enough gets done in the next decade that we can slow global warming down enough to give us time to adapt to it. Even if we stop pretending now and start really doing the things we can, it is going to keep skidding for a long time.
And yet there are people who are still pretending that pipelines are part of the solution, that we can continue driving our personal vehicles, that there will be enough electricity to both fuel EVs and cool our homes- which means only those of us who are wealthy enough to afford those things, and live where we have access to it. The reality: most Americans won't. And most of the people in the world won't, and most of them have it worse than we do. We are looking at massive changes in how we live, and we are not ready.
Vermont just had ANOTHER 1000 year flood. We were lucky in that no one died. But our farmers have lost crops again. It's not clear we have time to replant. Our roads and infrastructure are going to need rebuilding again.
And it will happen again. I agree with your statement "I don't think we have the means to pay what is due." I am so deeply sad that we are leaving this for our grandchildren, and embarrassed that we can't force our elected officials to do those things we know CAN be done and COULD make mitigate what is happening. Democracy makes a difference, because we know from generations, centuries, millenia, that autocracies do not and cannot, because their priorities always become doing what tains them power, not what is right and good for people's lives.
I guess that is the only thing that keeps me going. Knowing that our best bet for everything is a truly functional democracy. I hope to hell that somehow that's what we emerge with.
Annie, I hear you. It is not just the consumer or the governments (those count), but the corporations and businesses that are so powerful & that thrive on our over-the-top consumption of what they sell-sell-sell. Looking back at critical, societal/health issues and to know that those in the industries KNEW, they knew!!! the truth, the impact, and kept mum for the profits (a vindictive part of me hopes that this ate at their souls for the remainder of their lives….tho’ probably not…). This is now playing out on a global scale. I fear we’ve come to the dance too late…and probably don’t have the necessary moves to reinvigorate it all. But what do I know!? I never sought fame or fortune….but, just “enough” to make it through while doing my part to lend a hand to the effort. Probably not enough to make a difference….I’ve done what I can (ill) afford to lessen my impact & might be able to do more if resources were there (I think there are many people who would make significant changes if they could afford to change/upgrade their personal infrastructure). All in all I gather the Universe wastes nothing….and that somehow, someway we will all be recycled into whatever is created next (yeah, the recycling meme is not lost on me!)/
The issues you've gone on to outline call for a proper response, Barbara, but they're so vast that they don't lend themselves to ready discussion in a forum like this.
I'll come back to you but it would be wonderful if readers could take up the challenge of considering or imagining how we humans -- ourselves for a start, then those who'll have to face far worse -- are to face the chaotic transition we have already entered.
Expressed baldly, my view is that we are obliged to fall back on our innate resources.
So now I'm asking you to ask yourselves, what could that statement mean?
Even if 99% of humans perish (not likely all at once, but maybe in waves or fits ‘n starts….really who knows?) that leaves, based on current (rounding down) estimates of 8 billion currently on Earth, some 80 million left. Depending where on Earth they are, how habitable & resource (food/water) rich it is, our species might get a do-over. We’re adaptable as our evolution has shown. That said, and I’m just riffing here, perhaps a competing species will evolve and crowd us out and we will dwindle away to nothing (could happen regardless). Brings to mind Ishi, the last surviving member of the Yahi tribe in CA to be living “free”—he was in his own world w/in another world when he was discovered as an adult and brought to “civilization”. Certainly a thought-experiment of uncertainties…tho’ curiosity, intelligence (sometimes I wonder) and creativity have carried us along and brought us to this point….a cosmic roll of the dice?
I had a similar reaction, Pat. I wondered if decedents" meant those deceasing (rather than living). As for Barbara's "jerks" -- sounds like a huge overdose of divine monosodium glutamate, and horribly close to the truth... Just observe today's antics of leading misleader Ted Cruz...
I agree. The anti-Trump ads will at least prevent Trump from being elected again, which would be a disaster for our country, including even the future of US democracy. Let alone policy.
I've often contemplated infiltrating these groups, in order to engage and enact change with reason. But I think that is just a fantasy. It probably isn't possible to join the Federalist Society without financial contributions, for example.
I’ve tried reason with MAGAs and even some less bat**** crazy Rs and have failed miserably (and for a while drove myself into a depression I had trouble getting out of). I’m a liberal and a woman and it’s not going to happen. I think it has to be from their own people in their own language, like those ads.
Brava, sister. Your experience is the same as mine. Nothing short of deprogramming is going to work. They believe with all their hearts in the lies, and I don’t see a cure.
Matt, interesting spelling of 'grok' (programmers would understand). Even more special: Grawk is listed in a baby name book - though I can't imagine someone actually naming their child with it.
It is time for a citizen's campaign against Republicans who are not serving the American people and Senator Tommy Tuberville in one of them. It is our duty as citizens to share with the American people the truth about what Tommy Tuberville is doing to the military.
'For the first time since 1859, the Marine Corps does not have a confirmed commandant. For five months, Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) has held up the confirmation of about 250 Pentagon officers in protest of the Defense Department’s policy of enabling military personnel to travel to obtain abortion care. So when Commandant General David Berger retired today, there was no confirmed commandant to replace him. Assistant Commandant General Eric Smith will serve as the acting commandant until the Senate once again takes up military confirmations.' (Letter)
Tommy Tuberville is holding back the military in order to control women’s decisions about their health care. Please think about that. Why is he getting away with it? As citizens it is our responsibility to stop him.
How can Americans be safe when the military is being demeaned and demilitarized by Senator Tommy Tuberville, a member of the Armed Service Committee? Senator Tuberville is being disloyal to the country and needs to be called out, but we won't call him names. Our campaign will simply share the facts about Tommy Tuberville with the American people; we will show respect for the senator as he has lost his way. We feel sorry for him. Tommy Tuberville has lost his heart, his soul and his commitment to the Armed Services of the United States. Amen.
'That a Republican is undermining the military belies the party’s traditional claim to be stronger on military issues than the Democrats.' (Letter)
Also, let us not forget that this is the same Senator Tuberville who was one of the few Senators Despicable Don called during his insurrection on 01/06/21, seeking to ascertain his support during the deluge upon democracy
Hello, Daniel. I know Tuberville's history. My choice is to pity the man. The more sorrow we heap on him. the less he will be respected. The man is a 'loser'. As mean spirited and self-important as Tuberville is, he's also pathetic. I'm in favor of women, in particular, casting him as a weak and silly character. Yelling and throwing spitballs won't work; we'll just look bad. There are so many stereotypes in society to bring women down.
Having contributed mightily to his opponent, I take his actions personally. What he is, is what he was before he won his seat. True for many repubs in congress today. We have a significant population of morons. See Steady, Jul 10, 2023. Sorry I can’t link…
I suggest dialogue about strategies in dealing with corruption, including the abuse of power as preferable to orders beginning with: 'NEVER'. Thank you for thinking about communication among 'friends'. 🌿
Right and Tuberville had been a senator all of 3 days? Correct me if I’m wrong. Football coach turned politician. I definitely would want his input and governmental acumen.
Further to HCR important observation that "the key witness to that allegation" [against Biden] was indicted. The Perp is dual citizen Is GAL LUFT. The Southern District of New York case, USA vs, Luft, was unsealed today Number: 22-CRIM 597.
Gal Luft is alleged to be involved deeply in "multiple international schemes" including " covertly recruiting & paying" a high ranking [Trump] official identified in the Complaint as "Individual 1" the Co-founder of the Energy Group. The allegations include international weapons deals & violation of FARA, Foreign Agent Registration Act. The principal of GAL LUFT as a foreign agent is alleged to be the Peoples Republic of China. More as the case is prosecuted by SDNY.
SDNY has a Press Release up apparently it is "Dr. Gal Luft" . Because the indiictment was 1st filed back in 2022, I am expecting an amended complaint & additional named Defendants.
UPDATE ,11 am Eastern: Per BBC News, LUFT was arrested on 2/17/23 in Cyprus on US charges, but, jumped bail pending extradition. LUFT is likely hiding on a Yacht in an extradition free, island anchor.
For now, the defendant, GAL LUFT, is the 61 year old Executive Director of IAGS, (Institute for the Analysis of Global Security) and a former officer in the IDF, Israel Defense Force with significant combat experience. I thought but, cannot confirm that the fugitive Defendant has been noticeably absent the United States recently. LUFT, the R's secret witness is on the run ....🚨.
Major World events Today ... Sweeden has the Green Light to NATO per Secretary Jan Stoltenberg & the President of the United States.
It’s a horror show. Will the anti-Trump ads coming from conservatives and Republicans make a difference? Undoubtedly there were critical voices in Weimar Germany. They were too little and too late to stop the rise of NSDAP and Hitler. Pray that America is different.
Thanks to Heather again for explaining all of this, because I would be clueless without this clarity of what is going on! I mean, I do not have time to read all of the sources and resources she goes to, nor would anyone ever expect someone such as myself to! I’m just you average, maybe a bit unusual in some ways, but basically average older person who likes to read and write and believes in the country, and feels like screaming at what’s going on. Worried for the country, for the world, isn’t the half of it. I’m also pretty busy taking care of a bunch of business .... who isn’t?
Sylvia, so glad you’re here! We are learning under Heather’s incredible guidance. I read her and others voraciously. But I love the community here and enjoy the comments as much as the “meat” of the letter. You are not “average”, at all!
The Republican Party is now the Fascist Party, a party that is openly trampling the Constitution to our shame and dragging us toward a total loss of Freedom. The system has failed. Congress has over 100 members who voted to overthrow an election and our Justice Department is tolerating politicians brazenly lying to us, abusing our courts, and even key members of SCOTUS are corrupt partisans. People tout the Rule of Law while Garland sits on a legal opinion that says you can't prosecute a President. To quote our Former Attorney General, Barr, who lied about the Mueller Report and much more, "Bullshit!". Tuberville's heinous crime (how did or anyone get such power) is just one of the problems of our Government.
Is it the media fascination with outliers like Joe McCarthy and tfg that kept them in the headlines for too long that empowers Tommy, Clarence, Donnie, and Jimmy? We don’t hear about the revolving door of Donnie’s administration when most everyone had ACTING in their title, we never hear about all the work Kamala Harris and others in the administration are doing, we barely hear about President Biden’s many thoughtful speeches. Hats off to Richardson, Vance, Rather, Kirschner, Maddow, O’Donnell and others for being the voices in the wilderness. Big liberal media is too afraid of being “political” (or maybe afraid of the nut jobs with guns.)
This is the best description of the Maga movement I've seen. I think it gives some insights into the people involved that most of the time we fail to see, or to acknowledge. I don't know the answer, but looking at it like this helps me to understand what those folks are looking for, And maybe somehow out of that, if enough of us can see them as human beings with human needs, there might grow something that will start to break down the barriers that both they and us have built.
If you think about fascists, or war mongers, or unethical businessmen, or corrupt politicians or really bullies of any sort, they do as they please in ways that harm others, Tuberville's and many recent "Republican" stunts included. Isn't that humanity's biggest single problem? Modern "Republicans" are about as useful to the commonwealth as the Corona virus.
I'm a lifelong Democrat who believes that we need a functioning two-party system in the country. A pendulum swings both ways to keep time and make progress. A single party in charge leads to hubris and certain failure. However, today's GOP is a band of MAGA extremists hellbent on destroying our democratic and judicial norms, personal liberty, national security and climate. Neither reason nor shame seem to work to change their direction; Tuberville and his MAGA ilk must be soundly and roundly turned out of office and replaced with staunch moderates.
While my heart agrees with you, my head agrees with Merrick Garland, a man who takes his time to have all of his facts verified so that the eventual indictments will lead to convictions.
Forget about the co-conspiritors. Go straight to the top and hold the mob boss accountable. I don't necessarily care so much about the others just following orders. Maybe they should be prosecuted, but the top guy (Trump) is top priority.
Just following orders does not always cut it (culpability). Is the current Republican Part a reflection of Trump or vice versa. Some of the rank and file are dupes, but the leadership is all in this together, and the "hydra" (as above) would grow another, perhaps more virulent head unless we cast the net widely. RICO?
I’m in favor of casting the net to Perry, Jordan and other congress people who were/are in league with tfg and were so on 1/6. I’m waiting for that shoe to drop.
Absolutely, but the gambit against organized crime usually works it's way up from the bottom, pressing underlings to rat on overlords. Gotta catch 'em all. It 's only bad when they settle for only prosecuting a few mules and let the kingpins run free.
The extremist are claiiming the perps are martyrs. Jow about the ones paying for Trumps legal fees! Little minds ready prey for the turkey buzzard Republicans.
So so dysfunctional these MAGAs that they only disrupt and lie and now it seems fight with each other. Actually it’s embarrassing--let alone disgraceful—that these wannabe authoritarians are still in office.
Perhaps the mainstream media might clarify exactly the GOP cult with its agenda— win at all costs while taking away all personal liberty from a woman’s body; dictating who you can love or what books you can read; ignoring extreme climate disruptions even as communities keep suffering; or advocating alternative “truth” while denying the validity of science let alone understanding history; to encouraging violence toward those with whom you disagree…).
Should this be the news message?
Shouldn’t the media keep pointing out the serious consequences if this non-sense keeps tearing its ugly head.
Think about how many people are now being threatened online and in person because they criticize the former guy insurrectionist or the Florida governor/ dictator or the next MAGA WANNABE who urges political violence or commits the next gun massacre.
NO ONE wants to live in such a society or world.
So let’s tell regular media that that’s what we need to read or hear in the news. Decency, intelligence of some sort, belief in the United States as it tries to move toward a third century by trying to become a more perfect Union. Everyone needs to be clear about this.
I agree 100% with everything you've said! Maybe start your own blog :-).
The only thing I have to add is that regarding denying science, conservatives are very susceptible to group think as opposed to the needed open mindedness that science demands. One needs to follow the evidence and be willing to give up ones certain beliefs that stem from religious upbringing (while keeping ones religion in tact and adapting as necessary) or just rigid thinking in general.
Also implied that all sources of information are biased, as that’s been driven into their heads incessantly by infotainment disinformation. Presented with facts and numbers the most frequent response I get is “ I don’t care about facts”. Usually accompanied by a shift in goalposts.
And serious consequences already unleashed, such as immigrant families still deprived of their children, not to mention the probable PTSD for families separated even if restored. That was and is crime against humanity that does not go away just because it is out of sight. It seems to me that our responsibilities grow alongside the degree to which what we do affects the lives of others, be it what we purport to be "the news" or how we treat people as individuals, society and government. We can't do an adequate job of the of, by and for the people thing using woefully inadequate information.
Why? Just take a look at who owns the Media.....watch any nightly national news programs and notice how they all have the exact same stories....its like that on all the local news programs too, here in DahSantis land.....
Despite HCR's list of reasons we might want to become serious drinkers, I want to address a trial I fear will not take place in enough time to make sure that Trump doesn't win the next election.
Judge Cannon, I believe, will go along with Trump team's effort to delay, delay, delay. I think we will lose this race against time and once again we need to hold Merrick Garland responsible. His deliberative nature which made him a natural for the Supreme Court, has made him the overly cautious Attorney General who delayed taking action against Trump.
Garland finally appointed Jack Smith but didn't give him the head start he needed and the calendar is an enemy he cannot defeat. Trump getting away with murder will overtake any of the crises on HRC's list!
Mina, your heart is 'in the right place', 'I feel your pain'! Besides a Garland slow start and a Slow Cannon, the classified nature of the documents will further slow the case down. I urge you to listen to former FBI Dir. McCabe's podcast (link below) and guest (former CIA lawyer) here for a better understanding. But if Georgia indicts (indications are it will), Jack Smith indicts for Jan. 6th insurrection and/or fake electors fraud, together with New York's indictment which is stronger than media understands, it is highly unlikely the guy wins them all and fairly likely he wins none. The only thing worse than what this orange clown did is a government that cuts corners and denies ANYONE proper due process, especially a former office holder. Also note, a GOP President can NOT pardon state convictions! Georgia governor can NOT pardon Trump, New York governor (a Dem) could but highly unlikely. “Wheels of justice grind slow but grind fine”
Perhaps a strategy is to simply create enough doubt about Trump to whittle away some of his base. Sadly, I don’t believe he will ever be held accountable on a Federal level for attempting to overthrow the govt, removing national security docs, etc. Jack Smith can only do so much.
Maybe indictment’s on a state level? Asking for 11,789 votes. Taxes?
Perhaps there are some Guardians of the Galaxy out there who are getting tired of the GOP inertia and stupid tacky stuff. And its virtually impossible to continue to dispel the reality of what Biden has done to lift this country up. Its too bad the media focuses on lap tops and Trump and not Bidens legislation and international advancements. Would love to see a list of all the states that will be recipients of revenue? The companies that will be providing materials, technology, clean energy, services, systems, transportation, employees will all see growth. That shld attract attention for shareholders and municipalities.
Living here does make me happy! Central PA is stunningly beautiful. We are somewhat isolated except for PSU being here. I realize you are teasing me Mina…it is the state of affairs of our country that disheartens me. Happy Valley makes me happy, for sure!
Yes, Christine, I was teasing you, but as someone who was born in Pennsylvania and lived there for 65 years, I agree that there are many beautiful places in my former state! Keeping ourselves happy during these difficult days is a challenge we're all facing and I'm glad to hear that you are succeeding!
He doesn’t know the definition of “nationalist.” Even as it was explained to him, he seemed mystified and continued blathering that he doesn’t have a racist bone in his body...because coach and had Black players.
The always proactive President's steadiness is something to cling to. What he's undertaking this week is prodigious. He MUST receive the support of the whole country. Saudis moving the golf tournament to Trump Doral? USA is on a knife-edge.
Reading through the thread Biden's name rarely comes up so your mention of him caught my attention...why? because he's boring. He doggedly works like a dog to make things better for average Joe without the drama. So why do the rebs hate him so much. How can you hate boring?
I do think Tuberville is in league with Trump to prevent promotions until Trump wins the presidency so he can install candidates with sworn allegiance to Trump much like his plans for the Civil Service. Thanks Heather for this painful reading of Americas slide into Fascism .
Professor's articulation is remarkably clear and insightful, illuminates the challenges surrounding the confirmation process for key military positions. The absence of a confirmed commandant for the Marine Corps adds a compelling twist to the narrative, and underscords the impact of political obstructionism on the armed forces.
Love how the examination of the NATO summit and its multifaceted challenges presents a thought-provoking analysis of Ukraine’s defense and the urgent issue of climate change, and how she deftly navigates these global concerns, showcasing a deep understanding of the geopolitical landscape and its potential consequences! Big fan.
-Abe
Author, The AI-NFORMATION: How to build startups using AI and chatGPT.
Right down to the lowest Private we knew what our mission was. As an E-5, I had more responsibility than some officers. Not having a Commandant will not cripple the mission of the Marine Corps. I do not take this to be that serious an issue. I am sure the next in command can handle this and the paperwork. Don't make it anymore than a slight delay. Give no importance to Tommy.
Bill H - I know nothing about the inner workings of the military, but I'm hoping/trusting that the Marines can fully function without the top ranking official being in place. Thanks.
There are far greater things for us to worry about than whether Tommy (what grown adult at his age runs around being called "Tommy?") will stifle the promotion of officers. His efforts to rile people up deserve a loud yawn and a comment of "Is this the only thing you have as a priority on your plate of things to do as a Senator?" Tommy warrants no attention. He is not even XMilitary.
At 68 years old, he probably "just" escaped the Draft or found a way to be exempted from it. The state he represents has a football coach for a Senator. Wow!
If you want something to be concerned about, keep an eye on what the FED is doing to kill Labor's income growth in a search for the Holy Grail of 2% yearly national growth. The FED will eventually succeed but their efforts will reap a greater impact on the economy than what they wished. But then, its just real Labor . . .
Gone overboard in explaining this. Just more explanation of what I see.
I could swear this is a democratic republic. I must be nuts because Tuberville, a single person, has stopped this country from functioning. How is this possible? Who were the idiots that came up with this very undemocratic idea? Why do we allow this sheer stupidity to continue?
Exactly and crucially; why do we (as a nation) allow this (plainly anti-democratic) sheer stupidity to continue? It's our future at stake.
Then get out on the streets and protest.
I think Republicans to claim that President Joe Biden has weaponized DOJ, Department of Education, and FBI is a plot to deny any legal implications that Donald Trump and his allies are implicated in. It is a ploy to create a common ground of saying "after all Democrats can do what we are capable of undemocratically." For the last 8 years since Donald Trump came to White House, Republican Party has become a threat to the very basic democracy principles given their radical obstructionist tactics. MAGA Republicans have always had anti-democratic ideals:
1. Wanting to support third term for Trump
2. Believing in election claims by Donald Trump
3. Make voting as hard as possible
4. Rejecting election Congressional results.
Over the last years, Republicans haven't yet to stick to the constitutional compromise on principle (as advocated by the founders of the country). Rather, they would prefer to religiously use their political ideological guns and not change any tact to give room for the work to be done. Their obstructionism in Congress is alarmingly rising and so far it has rendered government departments ineffective, with public trust in government decreasing. Unfortunately, in some cases, Republican has led to Democratic Party being polarized as a response to the GOP behaviour. Republican obstructionism has become a bait for their political coexistence. Senator Tuberville is sticking to usual GOP's political playbook.
(I am a writer on African affairs and I shed light on political affairs as well across the world. I am greatly indebted to those who have subscribed to my newsletter in large numbers. It was a surprise gift 🎁 to me). I welcome you to my newsletter for free.
My next newsletter; how America is losing its grip on Africa to China
EVERY ACCUSATION IS A CONFESSION.
1. WHAT THEY ARE DOING.
2. WHAT THEY WILL DO.
Nicely observed 📰
Have you got enough of HCR’s subscribers yet?
he does beat the advertising drum, doesn't he!
Like he found the mother lode
I often enjoy his commentaries, but the preaching style and the endless advertising of his wares i think is misplaced here. Some might think he's trolling the commentaries.
Some might
I can't stand to read his comments anymore. Is there some way to block him?
As per the Global Party Survey on OECD countries (countries considered as democratic), Republican Party has been extreme outlier and shares the same attributes with anti-democratic and radical right wing parties like Turkey's AKP (jailed journalists) and PiS in Poland which has threated judges who make contrary verdicts to what they want by promising them criminal punishment.
From African perspective in Third Wave Democracies, parties with historic anti-democratic ideals include NRM led by President Museveni where opposition leaders are jailed (Kizza Besigye and Bobi Wine have been arrested many times), with the party banning social media. In Tanzania, CCM has no room for civil rights (opposition leader Tundu Lissu was shot many times in his home), with human rights abuses being high on the list. In 2021, when the late John Pombe Magufuli was ill with heart-related complications resulting from COVID-19 that he denied fervently about its existence, one of the persons who questioned his health status was arrested.
The bottom line for West Africa: The civil unrest will worsen as climate change brings drought and hunger. You can’t fix this by digging deeper wells. . .
So true
The news of Africa-China partnering has “been done.” The real news, now, is China’s terrible treatment of Africans as it exploits their resources.
I will cover that as well. Thanks
Thank you, Edwin! Beautifully put, I am subscribed to you and will add you to my daily list on Substack. I look forward to your next newsletter.
I am really really grateful for your support. I am really fired 🔥 up.
I also subscribed to your newsletter, Edwin. Thank you for your insight.
Thank you so much
Hello. I wholeheartedly agree with 99% of your comment and I am in no way a supporter of Trump or the out of control Republicans. But, it is not clear whether before Biden the Democrats used dirty tricks and the DOJ and FBI to undermine their opponents, especially through Hillary. See the Twitter files by Matt Taibi. Innocence is elusive.
Lol
Republican behavior pushed Democratic Party to somehow adopt the same polarising tactics, but they aren't aggressive as those of the GOP. I will check the Twitter files. Thanks @Michael Green
Thank you for your reminder about China in Africa. Too many Americans do not understand the significance of that fact
Sure. Someone reminded me that I should as well expound on how China is defrauding Africa's resources (an issue for another day). But, many do not know what led to America losing Africa to China. Also, do you know that tomorrow, Iranian President will visit Africa by starting with Kenya? What does this mean to Africa and US and Europe? I will reveal. Thanks
But perhaps best on your own substack, Edwin. Heather is a specialist in American political history who puts a lot of time and effort into a remarkable series of columns whose purpose is to explain American history and how it created who we are today. It is considered impolite to use someone else's place to beat your own drum. I am glad to know of your substack, but will not subscribe so long as you persist in highjacking Dr Richardson's space.
Kindly put, Ms Stratton. Thank you.
I agree Molly. This is not the only stupidity of Congressional 'rules'. You can add the rule that allows the Speaker of the House and the Senate majority leader the sole responsibility to determine which bills are sent to committee and which are "tabled for the duration. This gives dictatorial power to a single person in each house for whom only citizens of one State or worse, one District in one State were even given a vote. Then there is the Senate filibuster. All these imbecilic rules came about because at the time the Constitution was written there were no strong political parties. As the Democrats and Republicans grew stronger they set these dumb rules. These rules are not laws. They were not voted on, passed and signed into law by the President. They are rules made by a committee. Like all rules they can be broken. It just takes courage, a virtue lacking in either house.
If that is true, then it is time to call BS on these authoritarian “rules” and chuck them. The country comes before any stupid “rule” or party.
I agree Molly, I'm just not sure how to go about achieving this. It's quite obvious neither House of Congress is willing to "police" itself. Look how often in the last few years we've tried to get rid of the filibuster. Perhaps a very large, very peaceful gathering of people at the Congress building politely demanding an end to these authoritarian rules?
Part of me agrees with you, but…
See my new post.
100% Hiding behind process is just a dishonest way of weaseling out of something you never intended to do in the first place.
Our constitution needs a re-write, we can't be governed by rules set up 244 years ago.
I don't see THAT happening anytime soon.
If we the 68% who do not agree with the policies of the Republican party vote to give a 60 vote count in the senate and house this maybe could happen.
It’s not the Constitution that has failed--it’s the citizens who: 1. Don’t live up to civic duty, putting their little agendas ahead of the Greater Good; 2. Have not been corralled with deterring punishments already on the books. We have let criminals, petty and serious traitors, get away with obstructive sedition; 3. The SCrOTUS is corrupted and has passed laws aimed to help neonazi fascist billionaires become Puppet Masters of Quisling, corrupt Repugs. The RNC/GOP operates as a crime syndicate and “Citizens United” must be revoked.
We need change in Washington, and 22 Republican control states. But we also need a rewrite of the constitution to prevent this from happening again, resolve the supreme court term limits, undo what SCOTUS has done in the past 8 years.
Be careful what you wish for. Who knows what might happen?
The Massachusetts legislature suffers from the same ills. It is a smaller version of Washington. And it doesn't help that Democrats are in charge of both houses: party affiliation doesn't seem to matter when it comes to the corrupt wielding of power.
Power corrupts. Absolute power corrupts absolutely.
The players often lack integrity. Rules could change with the culture of the organizations.
Is it the fake filibuster at fault? Time to make Senators talk 24/7 until exhaustion and then give up!
The way it works, for better or worse, is that the Senate creates rules of conduct and then abides by and (too often in recent years) interprets those rules in ways that are both unethical and (therefore?) downright destructive to its major role in our constitutional republic. We can’t just look at the willful chaos of the House, but need to apply pressure to our Senators. Chuck Schumer and Co recently did this nation a huge disservice when they refused to press votes on Military Promotions in Tuberville’s absence. A gentleman’s agreement with a snake? You bring a big club or a cage to deal with a snake.
I’m from Georgia and I personally worked long hours to elect Senators Ossoff and Warnock, and I’m still exhausted from that effort. I’m on hiatus from active work, and overwhelmed with family and health, and I have hope.. but it’s not enough.
But.. I still live by this, and I encourage you all to do what you can with whatever you got. Make the calls to your electeds to keep the pressure on. Donate the money and/or time to Expand the Majority. And most importantly, support each other. We’re stronger together. Our voices.
Penny, thank you so much for all your efforts to elect Osshoff and Warnock. I did what I could from here in MN but I know how much blood, sweat and sheer effort it took on the ground. (Been there. Done that.)
Take care of yourself and your family and know how much you are appreciated in my small blue corner of the North. Without you and thousands like you, our situation would be that much more devastating. I see you and appreciate you!
Penny, I understand your exhaustion. I have been there many times. Your long hours put forth to get two very important people elected was not in vain. So I want to thank you and everyone else for bringing some sanity to our nation. Be well.
Hang in there, Penny thanks for your huge effort in Georgia. It say the Senate.
Penny, agree with others here to take care of yourself…what is the saying?….put your own oxygen mask on first before assisting others. Well, here’s to light breezes of clear, fresh oxygen and energy coming your way to replenish you.
Penny, I echo everyone's thanks for your service. You've beautifully expressed the exhaustion of activism. We're all down to fumes—but a post like yours makes me want to keep doing SOMETHING every day.
It was one of the mistakes that the Founding Fathers made (if in fact this is their idea.) The other mistake is the makeup of the Electoral College and the assignment of two U.S. Senators per state. Those eighteenth century inhabitants of thirteen colonies along our eastern seaboard could not imagine what the U.S. would become. As it stands right now, California has two U.S. Senators with a population of 40 million, equal to that of sixteen other states in the Midwest, with thirty-two Senators. That imbalance, along with the Filibuster, could be the cause for the demise of the Union.
They did what they needed to do to create a nation that would hold together because under the Article of Confederation, it was not. That meant compromises that are biting us now especially the electoral college. Slavery was the elephant in the room and I recommend reading LaPore's These Truths, a fairly recent book on US history. She explains in detail what went on at the constitutional convention. As for the two Senators for every state, I am not bothered by that since the House is based on population. I am bothered by gerrymandering and voter suppression, the electoral college, Citizens United, rules that allow what Tuberville is doing, and here in Oregon, quorums. And of course, the Supreme Court which proves that elections matter and purity often gets in the way of the hard and slow work of progress. And then there is climate change. I thought the pictures of the floods looked apocalyptic. 1000 year floods, not anymore.
Excellent points. I will check out LaPore's book. In return, to help understand today's racist, Fascist Republican Party, James Loewen's book, "Lies My Teacher Told Me," and "Stony the Road" by Henry Louis Gates, Jr., about Reconstruction and the rise of Jim Crow are very informative. It would be interesting to read an American history book written by a Native American.
There are quite a few. Seminal is Vine DeLoria's "Custer Died For Your Sins"- and his many other writings.
Anything by N. Scott Momaday, whose work includes novels and memoir, and deep insight into indigenous culture.
Here are a few others from my shelves:
Covered With Night: A Story of Murder and Indigenous Justice in Early America by Nicole Eustace, Liveright, 464 pages.
Roxanne Dunbar-Ortiz, An Indigenous Peoples’ History of the United States.
Winona LaDuke, All Our Relations: Native Struggles for Land and Life, an excellent primer on the movement to reclaim tribal lands, and Recovering the Sacred: The Power of Naming and Claiming, which looks at traditional beliefs and practices.
Louise Erdrich, Leslie Marmon Silko, Sherman Alexie, Paula Gunn Allenthe list is long. You will find history along with memoir, fiction, and poetry. This list is a little dated, but a little research will unveil the rich literature, both academic and popular, both fiction and non-fiction, that can help you understand history from the various indigenous perspectives.
I also suggest checking out the magazine High Country News (my favorite mag). It is focused primarily on issues that affect the mountains and high plains, but has an annual issue focused on American indigenous affairs, and continuing coverage in it's other issues, including reviews of books about Indigenous people written by indigenous people.
Thanks for the book tips. I have an order coming from Powells, but it's full of mysteries and my own historical interests which has long included Elizabethan England, English history in general (currently reading a bio of George III), and now Sumer and the ancient middle east. There is an author who focuses on Native Americans, but he is a Finnish Oxford don. Some Native Americans criticize him, but I still recommend his books including Lakota America and Indigenous Continent. Sometimes I am so affected by books that I have to put them down.
Just ordered Jill Lapore's book.
Good. I really enjoyed it. I found one error early in the book having to do with English history, but on the whole, it is excellent. She describes Bill Clinton as a rascal which did make me smile.
The weather..... is the WAKE UP !! CALL, for MANKIND ! ITS NOT " Pretty Mother Nature" This is ( FATHER) GOD ! Saying: CONSIDER My WORD ! ......... and BE READY ! ARE YOU ??
I have no idea what you are responding to. Why all the all caps? The climate change we are seeing now is largely human caused. I also notice your refer to the masculine father. While you are free to believe whatever you want, many here have different religious beliefs or no religious beliefs. Many people here have also given thought to their personal life styles and try to do what they can not to add to our climate problems.
MICHELE I am SORRY , that I have OFFENDED YOU, in Information I Post ! I use CAPS, to amplify My statements. My speak, is usually for the MANKIND, of this WORLD . Yes, there is umpteen Religions, BUT, There is ONLY ONE JESUS ! GODS WORD, ( JESUS SPEAKING) states: NONE, Come unto the FATHER ( GOD} But BY ME ! GOD , did give US !.... ALL FREEWILL ! Its ALL, Our OWN CHOCE ! BLESSINGS ! & I AM !, SORRY !!
To me all caps is shouting. I can see that you are a firm believer in Christianity and that's fine with me. However, as I said people have all kinds of way of approaching spirituality and you say in all caps that there is only one. I do not appreciate seeing this on this particular blog. I do accept your apology, but please henceforth, do not preach to me.
We The People: Trump's stolen documents threaten National Security in the worst way.
Tuberville: Hold my beer.
You speak the truth, David. I feel like I'm holding my breath, waiting for Trump's stolen documents to show up in the wrong hands and come back and slap the US in the face. It seems that the National Archives was asleep on the job in letting those documents get so far afield. (And even if the documents are retrived, what about copies?)
I think that you are right about the stolen documents. Is it merely coincidental that some of Putin's close associates started dying mysteriously last summer? Was that info on them taken from the documents that Trump turned over to Putin and which are now missing? I think that U.S. Intelligence knows but hasn't said anything yet. It's a case of treason.
Great comment, those are my thoughts, EXACTLY!! It's even more outrageous that the dumbest, most ignorant Senator (Tuberville) in the Senate, is behind this.
Proof that successful football coaches do not make good pols. Then there are actors and reality show hosts.
Did anyone see his interview last night on CNN with Caitlin Collins? He truly is STUPID. He’s a perfect example to use with the insulting term “dumb jock.” He and Jordan should not be allowed to harm our military and waste our tax money with their pathetic antics to prove they are “Christian men.” Yuk!
Dont watch cable anymore - so she interviewed Tuberville now? Frankly, I thought she was a decent journalist BEFORE she interviewed the dumpster. This just solidifies my opinion. Dont these characters get enough airtime on Faux?
She let him show his stupidity front and center.
Sure to us - but the followers of djt dont see that.
In addition to the obsolete rules the Senate follows, rules that incorrectly assume all Senators are ladies or gentlement deserving of respect, that's what happens when a State's voters think being an SEC football coach is great training for the Senate.
McConnell could whip a majority of his caucus to join democrats and reach the 2/3 majority in the Senate necessary to expel Tuberville.
Wishful thinking.
The problem of political "gridlock": based on senate representation numbers and polarization. Extremism has its political day. As long as GOP can elect a large minority or small majority, that's it, folks! The smorgasbord throw everything into the daily adversary buffet (Jorden et al) has often served the GOP well, the truth be damned. Misinformation is GOP DNA, not unusual in the "realpolitik" tradition. Rule with demonization of your enemies, emotions sway. 2024 may be very tough. I read a recent stats report that the youth (say up to 30+) support, so vital for Dem advances, is stalled or in decline, and hold out against Biden. Anyone want to help with info here would be appreciated. Dems must organize and message/engage loud and clear... and persistently
I have not seen that decline in young voters. They were have been energized by the lawlessness of the Repubs. They have Victor Shi who is a college student whose life changed in the Parkland shootings. There is also David Hogg, who Marjorie Three Names harrassed, who is active. Maxwell Frost, the youngest member of the House ever elected. The younger generation is tired of the bullshit about guns and other legislations not getting passed. They are organized and ready for battle. I look forward to their leadership.
Glad to hear. This may also be a "mid-term" tuning out, but it seemed to be "on" the Dems.
In many ways each senator is like a Saudi Prince, in that they have to power to cause pain without any repercussions. I say defund the senate! Let them pay for their daily delivery of ice to their offices!
You know what? In my ever, so small capacity, from here on end, when I see devastating weather from climate change hitting Tuberville’s constituents, I’m giving a shout out to Mother Nature. ‘You go, Gurl! Wipe them and their oil industries off the map . . . And take Tubby with you.’
Unfortunately, most of his constituents and many people elsewhere attribute weather to God. You know how God has punished all those atheists in CA with wildfires. I have often wondered how that holds up when these people are in the middle of a weather catastrophe. Have they sinned? I also notice that while Rs love to criticize the federal government, they always call for federal help in severe weather damage. I watched the rampaging rivers in the Northeast last night and listened to people say that they have never seen anything like it. How many equate what is happening with what humans are doing. I try to be hopeful, but it is becoming increasingly difficult. So, I take pleasure in small things like making marion berry (type of blackberry here in Oregon) jam yesterday. And I will be picking this am and putting away my dried garlic for the year.
We need to embrace the God angle more. I mean, Rick DeSantis comes up with all this anti immigrant, anti trans stuff, and Florida has an invasion of giant, hermaphroditic snails. How can you look at that and not say "verily, this is the finger of God?"
I didn't know about the snails. Well, what to do. Stumpy Boots DeSatan must be in a stir about these snails...time for a law forbidding them to read to children or put in a show in a bar.
You got the snark in before I could! Brava!!
Marionberry jam is the best!!!
Among the two foods I miss most from Oregon are the Marionberries and the pears- fresh are sublime, and pear butter is better than apple butter.
Well, and oysters. And Dungeness crab.
Dang.
We have a Bartlett and a couple of Asian pear trees. I love oysters, but they have to be cooked. Crab is OK, but not enough for me to buy it fresh and pick it.
Annie, I grew up in Medford with dozens of pear orchards all over. Fresh pears (especially the Bartlett and the Bosc) are absolutely wonderful. I'll take your word on the pear butter; I really don't care for either of them (it's a texture thing).
The fresh seafood though...absolutely!
You forgot that that is where I grew up, too! I love fresh pears (and peaches, too), but will settle for canned if I have to. Bartlett good for cooking, not so much for eating fresh. Bosc is top of the line eating pear. When I moved to VT, pear trees were rare, and produced erratically because of spring weather frost and cool summers. Thing of the past. Wish I'd taken the chance then and planted some pear trees. There is a neglected relict pear behind a neighbor's house that produces a good crop almost every year now. Thinking maybe next year I'll plant a couple dwarf pear trees (bosc for sure, maybe anjou or comice) and and see if I live long enough to harvest some nice pears. Come to think of it, if I look around, maybe I could find some potted on sale and start now!
If I ever get out there, we need to get together for a good seafood dinner!
I hadn't made jam in years and then I made a batch last year. I may make another batch and use some spices in it....depends on how many berries I can get. I give a lot of them away. The first good picking always goes to our neighbor who then makes a pie and it was delicious. I also have a big fennel bulb that i am going to roast as part of lunch.
During the pandemic I returned to some small jam making by picking crabapples from a nearby tree and cooking up some jam. It turned out therapeutic as well as tasty. I just couldn't listen to that voice on the news any longer!
Nothing like kitchen magic to drown out whining. I wore out the mute button.
Marion berries were developed at Oregon State University {College then}, named after Marion County, and one of it's parents was the Himalayan Blackberry we all hate until the berries are ripe.
God is also apparently responsible for field goals.
I am smiling. He/She/It is also responsible for touchdowns, baskets, interceptions, etc. Every time I see this, I always say God doesn't give a damn about sports.
It is tempting, isn't it, Dawna?
The republic is ostensibly democratic but the rules of both houses of Congress are not.
Stupidly seems to be the MAGA brand and it is not pretty.
Sometimes being the first to come up with a new idea, like democracy, has drawbacks. The compromises necessary to incorporate all the states has led to this dysfunctional version of democracy. I doubt we could rewrite the thing today, but maybe in some wiser future we might. So much is wrong with the Constitution as it stands.
It's called a filibuster.
Tuberville’s blackmail of the military illustrates how flawed the Senate is. A Senate rule in essence grants one of its members grandstanding sway over key appointments to the services at a most dangerous time in the world.
Imagine if each of the 100 senators decided based on personal whims to act this way? Also, it’s more evidence that the GOP has no interest in governing, only obstructing.
Tuberrville is a freshman with zero political capital at risk over his granstanding.. But it's likely he wi[[ pay a price - no commitee appointments, ever, and no co-sponsors on any legislation he has the unselfconscious hubris to propose. Tuberville is a nobody, persona non grata, a honunculus. It's a joke to call him a "senator"
John,
homunculus
/hɒˈmʌŋkjʊləs,həˈmʌŋkjʊləs/
noun
a very small human or humanoid creature.
HISTORICAL
a microscopic but fully formed human being from which a fetus was formerly believed to develop
What a great word. I knew it vaguely, but it is the perfect description of Tumorville. OMG! Thank you.
I know, right? Learned a new word too!
We are laughing together! Have a great week, Barbara.
Smeagle/Gollum
I kept wanting to equate homunculus with horcrux...‼️ (The most terrible of dark magic...)
Wasn't Voldemort a homunculus before he was dumped in the cauldron with Wormtail's hand and Harry Potter's blood?
Thank you, Elizabeth. I had never seen nor heard that word before. Very apt description of Tuberville.
Homunculus and Tumorville! 😂😂😂
That's giving him too much credit. As the drill instructor at MCRD San Diego said to us as we stood on the yellow footprints, waiting to board the bus, we were not Marines, we were not civilians, we were "lower than whale sh*t". The phrase, applied to Tuberville, would elevate him. I can only hope the people of Alabama do not make the humiliating mistake of returning him to office.
Tuberville was elected because he was a popular coach in a football-centric state. He had minimal political experience, and has proven to be intellectually inferior to his fellow Senators. To allow his grandstanding to hold up vital military operations is incomprehensible.
Yeah, but he knew enough about politics to be able to name the three branches of government (wink, wink).
The military will just work around this homunculus’s obstacles (Acting Commander) rendering his position useless conferring all the power back to the Executive Branch for now.
How will they do that? I'm really trying to understand this nasty situation.
The military just appointed an “acting commander” to fill the role of the retiring commander. Basically moving ahead without the Senate’s confirmation hearing. If the Senate refuses to take up confirmation hearings, they will proceed without their consent until the Senate starts to act like Adults.
Vote Vets!
Do the rest of us really have to suffer this fool(homunculus) until Alabama voters wake up? This is sad and dangerous.
Yes, he is a nobody. A dumb hick that once coached a football team. I also agree that it is a joke to call this bum a ''Senator'' He and Marjorie Traitor Goon would make a good pair. They are exactly alike. Dumber and Dumbest.
The folks in Alabama chose "Coach" Tuberville instead of their former Senator. It's no wonder the rest of the country considers the people of the South ignorant and stupid.
In the South, anyone associated with college football, especially a head coach, is a god. That kind of name recognition is priceless. Is he capable? Who cares?
Indeed- just look at the last GA senate race that almost elected Hershel !
Careful, the head football coach at the University is often paid more than the Govenor in most States.
I am beginning to agree with this assessment, John. At first I thought they MTG and Tuberville were simply ideologues, but, even if they are, they're stupid ones, clueless, or else carelessly indifferent.
Correct me if I am wrong- but wasn’t Tuberville the senator when asked the 3 Branches of the Government- didn’t know what they were?
Still has the power of a senator in this regard, damage escalating as we post…
Stupid, perhaps. Cunning, certainly. Like tFg.
All ANY GOPig is required to do is: 1. Create an obstruction; 2. Fund raise based upon their pettiness. No governance required--only pandering to their fascist, neonazi Corporate Handlers . In Tubby’s case, that would include Charles KKKoch.
Mr. Kelly help me understand how he (Tuberville) got to the position of holding up military confirmations. Is it Senate policy? Was there a vote? And is it possible for other senators to relieve him of this ability? If so, I'll contact my senators.....
I don't pretend to understand the arcane rules of the Senate. My limited understanding is that what Tuberville is doing isn't normal. He's preventing these nominations from reaching the floor by "unanimous consent" because he's a newbie, he doesn't understand the meaning of "comity", and he's an ass -- a bad combination. AFAIK the rest of the Senate could get around Tuberville by actually voting to bring these nominations to the floor. Maybe McConnell and Schumer aren't scheduling such a vote in order to give Tuberville enough rope to hang himself? I don't know.
I call them the Republican'ts.
Or Rethuglicans...
The Repugnant Party... and they ARE.
The most fitting definition is Fascist. They want to establish a white theocratic autocracy. This is the KKK at work. Get Timothy Egan's book, "A Fever in the Heartland," about the rise of the KKK in the Midwest in the early 1920's. Today's activities are no different, nor are the motivations. Remember Charlottesville in 2017, with the marchers shouting "Jews will not replace us." That's Klan talk and they're doing it today, too, just as they did in the 1920's.
And I would like to add if you have Amazon Prime for free watch, "Shiny Happy People". It is about the Duggers nineteen and counting, the Institute of Basic Life Principles, (IBLP), Bill Gothard. I watched it and had a nightmare during the night. It is so scary to think what these people are doing! There were 5 episodes.
OMG!! Do I dare to watch it? Right now I sleep like a new born babe.
Definitely not before going to bed as I did.
Maybe watch during the day!
Or Repugnocrats!
Rethuglicans is what i have been calling them for a year now. Derelicts and Despots are a good name for them too.
John, whatever we call them, let’s get them the hell out of our democracy. They are an insidious lot, no matter how absurd they are. Brainless derelicts and despots. Thanks!
TRUTH, Elizabeth!
I totally agree, they are an insidious lot that don't have any business in our democracy. Calling them unqualified would be an understatement. They are much worse than that. Gullible people, especially here in the South would likely vote a baboon into office if that were possible. They are also responsible for that Goon, Marjorie Traitor Goon is in our Congress. There are some sensible people here in Georgia, but there are way too many ignorant and gullible hicks here in GA also. And they love and worship Donald TUMP too...
Or Republicons
Mine is RepubliQans.
Don't hear much about Q...maybe it hit bored and left....great moniker!
Obstructing and bullying.
Sorry I'm so ignorant on this issue. Why does Tuberville have this leverage? It reminds me of the filibuster without having to actually filibuster.
Arcane rules, basically. But as typifies the Senate, things are complicated. Good explainer here: https://thehill.com/opinion/congress-blog/4072515-democrats-are-eyeing-the-wrong-approach-to-tubervilles-blanket-hold/
I read an article today in Scientific America that had the results of a study on the cognitive attributes and brain size of dinosaurs. It found that they rated these traits equivalent to a baboon. Seems like Tuberville does not come close to baboons.
Laughing out loud literally. However. You are so correct-Tuberville. Needs. To. Go.
IMPEACH TOOBIE!!!!!!
😂
Call them what they are traitorous Trojan horses, bent on destroying any semblance of democracy
I agree Michael, but it's not just the Senate, the House of Representatives has formulated similarly obstructive rules.
It’s all about tearing down the country by rendering the government ineffective so that a trumpian dictator can be installed. That would effectively keep control in the hands of oligarchs indefinitely.
Well said, Michael. I call it “acting for soundbites”.
For the first half of this letter I was reading with pure horror. I guess these are some points of hope:
— “Independent voters, who tend to swing US elections that have become so close, don’t buy into the Trump line. You don’t see support for this unhinged view that the justice department and the FBI are somehow corrupt. There’s not support for that except in the fringe of the Republican party." - Larry Jacobs, Center for the Study of Politics and Governance at the University of Minnesota,
— "A new group called Win It Back, tied to the right-wing Club for Growth, which has ties to the Koch network, will run anti-Trump ads starting tomorrow. Americans for Prosperity, linked to billionaire Charles Koch, will also run ads opposing Trump." Alex Isenstadt, Politico
I'm glad the Rs are starting to turn on each other but it's a really uneasy feeling to have to root for anything Koch does.
This uplifted me a bit, from the NYT this morning: Conservative columnist Bret Stephens retracts his former bullishness on DeFascist after seeing that twisted anti-LGBTQ+ video:
"I guess my main takeaway is that DeSantis isn’t going to be the next president. He makes Trump seem tolerant, Ted Cruz seem likable, Mitch McConnell seem moderate, Lauren Boebert seem mature and Rick Santorum seem cool. Not what I would have expected out of the Florida governor six months ago, but here’s where I confess: You (journalist Gail Collins) were right about him, and I was wrong."
Also, it's worth taking a look at that first anti-Trump ad: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TXmRng3ZtcM
Do you have any plans for making this journalistic platform your focus as a writer? You seem to have the tools and experience and youth working towards becoming an iconic force in contemporary American Journalism. With your philosophic balance weighing decidedly towards progress your alliance with mainstream thinking makes you a candidate for bridging some of the chasms as we move forward. Fifty years from now will a student reach into the cloud and pull out Alexandra Sokoloff the iconic writer who’s work illuminated American political discourse and use it to enhance her doctoral thesis?
That's absurdly flattering, Pat Cole! I hang out here because the level of dialogue amongst the commenters, including you, rises to the level HCR is achieving with her historical analysis. I used to be able to talk politics and political action with friends and readers on Facebook but the Zuck has shut down any amplification of political posts (at least leftist political posts). I've been so grateful to find that political analysis here!
And I'm here listening and looking for more ways to engage social and political action (and simple compassion) through my fiction. I have way more training and tools to reach people through novels and film. And that's my living, so there's that!
How long have you been in this forum?
As my plane descended into Binh Hoa in 1971, I witnessed the marvel of grass huts surrounded by sandbags. From then to now I have been in this forum. While I had nothing to say as I hid in the darkness for years, HCR appeared on my Facebook. I had no idea who she was but she made sense. When I dumped “Zuck” I got the bright idea to search the ether. There I found this enclave. The people here are the Americans. Jan. will make two years. The voices here on LFAA reassure me of the survival of the American intellect.
Pat, agree! Reasoned dialog with intelligent, thoughtful folks….maybe of nuanced or differing opinions, but willing to share, listen, learn and amend ones’ stance if the evidence so indicates. Love HCR’s Substack, but equally love the dialog of the commenters in response/and in reply to listed comments. Maybe a sort of internet ‘Salon’ of the type held in days gone by.
To my friends whom I am yet to meet, Alexandra, Pat and Barbara, I most enjoyed your little colloquy as I cruised through Heather's excellent post this evening and the comments thereafter. I agree with all of you, and wish you all a good night!
YES! Exactly: "The voices here on LFAA reassure me of the survival of the American intellect."
You just spoke my heart. This often feels like a lifeboat in a sea of absurdity, living in the dystopia of Florida as I do. Thank you.
I begin my day at 5 AM by walking my dog through a still sleeping midwestern neighborhood. Then I come home, open my laptop, and read HCR's posting for the day, which wakens my mind. Then when I read the comments, I feel my blood begin to stir: the lively, intelligent, back and forth discussion of the day's issues. Finally, I am fully awake, glad and grateful to be present among others with bright minds and good sense.
My love affair with HCR started the afternoon I chanced upon her Facebook talk, early in the pandemic shutdown. There she was, backed by shelf after shelf of old books - primary sources? Then I found her daily LFAA, then I discovered this forum. I don’t often comment, but I read every word written here and, for better or worse, you have become my invisible friends. Thank you.
After watching this ad I was struck by the lack of any kind of policy position, other than “beat the Dems”. It’s as if policy is unimportant, but you all know what we want *wink wink*. With no GOP platform what exactly are they supporting? Some vague “anyone but the other team/party” emotion? Sadly I live among many of them.
The GOP has not written a party platform since 2016 and then it was one to favor tfg, so it’s no wonder republicans never mention any policies they want to put forward. When did they ever say what would replace the ACA once they repealed it? How can the party develop any cogent plans for the country when it’s in a constant state of internecine war?
Remember, the 2016 platform deleted support for Ukraine.
That's the entire MAGA platform: "Own the libs."
I was baffled by this ad, too, and tried to write something about it, but couldn't pin down my unease enough to explain it. Your words come close. It wasn't "beat the dems": that was him explaining his initial feelings about Trump and his chaos. Then a vague segue to after the election and realizing that we need someone who is will work on the issues. "If we vote for Trump, we'll lose all that". I think it is a low-key way of reaching Trump supporters with doubts without coming out and saying vote for Dems. Or maybe it is a low-key way of saying let's find some body other than Trump to run. "Issues" were not defined, just alluded to. You never win hearts by hitting somebody over the head. Just feel something didn't quite jell. But I guess it's a start.
Alexandra, I watched the Koch ad. I reposted it on fb to warn people to know what “the other side” is up to. It ain’t good....
I wouldn’t further the distribution of this 'we've got to win' crap. Win what? No policies, no direction, no moral underpinning of any kind, just Trump's too distracted to win, so (implied) let's find someone who can. What kind of shit is that? Koch coke for the ambivalent.
Pick up Kochland. A great expose of the company and how it has pushed its agenda stealthy.
Yes it’s so subtly twisted.
Alexandra, I was surprised and also uplifted to read Stephen’s apt description of my governor…sigh.
Thanks for the link. The ad provides great opportunity for Dems to counter ➡️ “ Build teams to solve issues. Focus on the issues that really need to be fixed”.
Nice house
Thx
As I read, Alexandra, the expression “circular firing squad” leapt to mind. Koch is part of the reason we are at this lamentable point in our history…..yes, a very uneasy feeling. He will support DeSatan if he and his ilk believe that buffoon can install fascism, lock, stock and barrel (sorry for the gun allusion….).
Elisabeth, I've been using "cage fight" but I like "circular firing squad" — so much more definitively lethal! DeFascist DeSatan is tanking, but I'm basically not going to breathe until the election.
Me either. Breathing is not an option...
A circular firing squad also implies either ignorance or incompetence. Both those shoes fit.
No I don't think he will support DeSatan.
While the Koch network may run ads against Trump, those people are anti-democracy to their core. Who is helping to fund that No Labels bs. The enemy of our enemy is NOT our friend.
Jenn, They are funding, wait for it, Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. A wacko if there ever was one.
Well, it succeeded once.
The facts are against all of the above Republican groups (not talking about the independents, who indeed have their own issues).
The Trumpers are just crazy. The Growth-ers and Prosperity-ers are all science deniers, and probably even support off shoring if it benefits the uber wealthy short term. These people can't grawk things like the Inflation Reduction Act. Nor could they possibly understand if I ran for office and campaigned on a carbon-fee to combat global warning and speed the transition to renewable energy and electrification! (Not going to happen, though :-).)
Matt, exactly. The level of ignorance makes it simply impossible to argue with them. But maybe, hopefully, those anti-Trump ads might peel off some of the less completely insane.
Fire, Wind, Water speak louder than the loudest "person corporate".
In the end, even the stone deaf will hear, even the purblind will see, and even the insane will feel the heat and begin to get the point.
But Earth can wait.
We can't.
Peter, almost took issue with “but the Earth can wait”….my immediate impulse was to scream “no it can’t”……took me a nanosecond to get back into my body and realize, of course, the Earth CAN wait….it is patient, we humans are not. As I understand it, the Earth as we know it (allowing for shifting continents/tectonic plates/etc) is good, give or take, for another 5 billion years….so we’re about 1/2 way through our shelf life. You’re right, we cannot wait to act lest WE be no more….and, increasingly, I fear that will be so. Oh, I have images of pockets of Homo sapiens (to evolve into what next over the few millennia if any of us survive?) adapting to the loss of critical habitats & species (our fellow Earth inhabitants). First & second world society members want our “stuff” and conveniences & ease & consumption w/o regard to what the final bill will be….I don’t think we have the means to pay what is due. Maybe, just maybe, if we get on a massive global (with first & second tier countries stepping up big time) cooperation, throwing our best & brightest & best (thoughtfully considered) technology to mitigate the harm already in the pipeline, we might have a chance. The stories our decedents will tell of the marvels of the past will be stuff of legend…I just hope it is not going to be “rinse, repeat”.
I remember seeing a cartoon of Earth at the doctor. Doc said “Oh, you’ve just got a case of the humans. That will have to run its course; there really isn’t a cure for that organism.”
One of my faves is an old Gary Larsen where God is in his laboratory creating the Earth…there it sits on the lab table, almost complete, and God is holding a container like a salt shaker tipped above it. The caption is something like “to make it more interesting” and the label on the shaker says “jerks”.
Barbara, this summer in New England has been unreal. And brought home to me that we really have less time than even the experts predicted: because we thought people would pay attention, governments would act.
The best- the *best*- we can hope for now is that enough gets done in the next decade that we can slow global warming down enough to give us time to adapt to it. Even if we stop pretending now and start really doing the things we can, it is going to keep skidding for a long time.
And yet there are people who are still pretending that pipelines are part of the solution, that we can continue driving our personal vehicles, that there will be enough electricity to both fuel EVs and cool our homes- which means only those of us who are wealthy enough to afford those things, and live where we have access to it. The reality: most Americans won't. And most of the people in the world won't, and most of them have it worse than we do. We are looking at massive changes in how we live, and we are not ready.
Vermont just had ANOTHER 1000 year flood. We were lucky in that no one died. But our farmers have lost crops again. It's not clear we have time to replant. Our roads and infrastructure are going to need rebuilding again.
And it will happen again. I agree with your statement "I don't think we have the means to pay what is due." I am so deeply sad that we are leaving this for our grandchildren, and embarrassed that we can't force our elected officials to do those things we know CAN be done and COULD make mitigate what is happening. Democracy makes a difference, because we know from generations, centuries, millenia, that autocracies do not and cannot, because their priorities always become doing what tains them power, not what is right and good for people's lives.
I guess that is the only thing that keeps me going. Knowing that our best bet for everything is a truly functional democracy. I hope to hell that somehow that's what we emerge with.
Annie, I hear you. It is not just the consumer or the governments (those count), but the corporations and businesses that are so powerful & that thrive on our over-the-top consumption of what they sell-sell-sell. Looking back at critical, societal/health issues and to know that those in the industries KNEW, they knew!!! the truth, the impact, and kept mum for the profits (a vindictive part of me hopes that this ate at their souls for the remainder of their lives….tho’ probably not…). This is now playing out on a global scale. I fear we’ve come to the dance too late…and probably don’t have the necessary moves to reinvigorate it all. But what do I know!? I never sought fame or fortune….but, just “enough” to make it through while doing my part to lend a hand to the effort. Probably not enough to make a difference….I’ve done what I can (ill) afford to lessen my impact & might be able to do more if resources were there (I think there are many people who would make significant changes if they could afford to change/upgrade their personal infrastructure). All in all I gather the Universe wastes nothing….and that somehow, someway we will all be recycled into whatever is created next (yeah, the recycling meme is not lost on me!)/
The issues you've gone on to outline call for a proper response, Barbara, but they're so vast that they don't lend themselves to ready discussion in a forum like this.
I'll come back to you but it would be wonderful if readers could take up the challenge of considering or imagining how we humans -- ourselves for a start, then those who'll have to face far worse -- are to face the chaotic transition we have already entered.
Expressed baldly, my view is that we are obliged to fall back on our innate resources.
So now I'm asking you to ask yourselves, what could that statement mean?
Or have you other views, other answers?
Descendants ? Or decedents? I can live with dead men talking.
Even if 99% of humans perish (not likely all at once, but maybe in waves or fits ‘n starts….really who knows?) that leaves, based on current (rounding down) estimates of 8 billion currently on Earth, some 80 million left. Depending where on Earth they are, how habitable & resource (food/water) rich it is, our species might get a do-over. We’re adaptable as our evolution has shown. That said, and I’m just riffing here, perhaps a competing species will evolve and crowd us out and we will dwindle away to nothing (could happen regardless). Brings to mind Ishi, the last surviving member of the Yahi tribe in CA to be living “free”—he was in his own world w/in another world when he was discovered as an adult and brought to “civilization”. Certainly a thought-experiment of uncertainties…tho’ curiosity, intelligence (sometimes I wonder) and creativity have carried us along and brought us to this point….a cosmic roll of the dice?
I had a similar reaction, Pat. I wondered if decedents" meant those deceasing (rather than living). As for Barbara's "jerks" -- sounds like a huge overdose of divine monosodium glutamate, and horribly close to the truth... Just observe today's antics of leading misleader Ted Cruz...
There will be a few. There are a slew of movies that depict their lives.
Pat, now we are “dead men walking”…..omg.
I agree. The anti-Trump ads will at least prevent Trump from being elected again, which would be a disaster for our country, including even the future of US democracy. Let alone policy.
I've often contemplated infiltrating these groups, in order to engage and enact change with reason. But I think that is just a fantasy. It probably isn't possible to join the Federalist Society without financial contributions, for example.
I’ve tried reason with MAGAs and even some less bat**** crazy Rs and have failed miserably (and for a while drove myself into a depression I had trouble getting out of). I’m a liberal and a woman and it’s not going to happen. I think it has to be from their own people in their own language, like those ads.
Brava, sister. Your experience is the same as mine. Nothing short of deprogramming is going to work. They believe with all their hearts in the lies, and I don’t see a cure.
I agree with you on all points.
Matt, interesting spelling of 'grok' (programmers would understand). Even more special: Grawk is listed in a baby name book - though I can't imagine someone actually naming their child with it.
Yes. I just read this.
It is time for a citizen's campaign against Republicans who are not serving the American people and Senator Tommy Tuberville in one of them. It is our duty as citizens to share with the American people the truth about what Tommy Tuberville is doing to the military.
'For the first time since 1859, the Marine Corps does not have a confirmed commandant. For five months, Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) has held up the confirmation of about 250 Pentagon officers in protest of the Defense Department’s policy of enabling military personnel to travel to obtain abortion care. So when Commandant General David Berger retired today, there was no confirmed commandant to replace him. Assistant Commandant General Eric Smith will serve as the acting commandant until the Senate once again takes up military confirmations.' (Letter)
Tommy Tuberville is holding back the military in order to control women’s decisions about their health care. Please think about that. Why is he getting away with it? As citizens it is our responsibility to stop him.
How can Americans be safe when the military is being demeaned and demilitarized by Senator Tommy Tuberville, a member of the Armed Service Committee? Senator Tuberville is being disloyal to the country and needs to be called out, but we won't call him names. Our campaign will simply share the facts about Tommy Tuberville with the American people; we will show respect for the senator as he has lost his way. We feel sorry for him. Tommy Tuberville has lost his heart, his soul and his commitment to the Armed Services of the United States. Amen.
'That a Republican is undermining the military belies the party’s traditional claim to be stronger on military issues than the Democrats.' (Letter)
Citizens' campaign yes. Big and loud. Well-organised. Urgently. The so-called Senate has become a preposterous travesty.
We can thank McConnell for that and for creating a SCOTUS that serves their pockets instead of we the people.
Oh, I do thank him. For all that, and for his unswerving destructiveness throughout President Obama's tenure.
Correct again you are, Fern!
Also, let us not forget that this is the same Senator Tuberville who was one of the few Senators Despicable Don called during his insurrection on 01/06/21, seeking to ascertain his support during the deluge upon democracy
Hello, Daniel. I know Tuberville's history. My choice is to pity the man. The more sorrow we heap on him. the less he will be respected. The man is a 'loser'. As mean spirited and self-important as Tuberville is, he's also pathetic. I'm in favor of women, in particular, casting him as a weak and silly character. Yelling and throwing spitballs won't work; we'll just look bad. There are so many stereotypes in society to bring women down.
Having contributed mightily to his opponent, I take his actions personally. What he is, is what he was before he won his seat. True for many repubs in congress today. We have a significant population of morons. See Steady, Jul 10, 2023. Sorry I can’t link…
I get this character as so many others and like him no more than you do. Don't worry about the link. We're together with different strategies or not.
NEVER offer pity to the Corrupt; it’s what sociopaths yearn for, to manipulate others.
I suggest dialogue about strategies in dealing with corruption, including the abuse of power as preferable to orders beginning with: 'NEVER'. Thank you for thinking about communication among 'friends'. 🌿
Right and Tuberville had been a senator all of 3 days? Correct me if I’m wrong. Football coach turned politician. I definitely would want his input and governmental acumen.
Call Tommy the Traitor and tell him what you think!
"Please call my Washington, D.C. office at 202-224-4124 or my Mobile, AL office at 251-308-7233."
It’s a hydra. Keep exposing them, Heather!
Further to HCR important observation that "the key witness to that allegation" [against Biden] was indicted. The Perp is dual citizen Is GAL LUFT. The Southern District of New York case, USA vs, Luft, was unsealed today Number: 22-CRIM 597.
Gal Luft is alleged to be involved deeply in "multiple international schemes" including " covertly recruiting & paying" a high ranking [Trump] official identified in the Complaint as "Individual 1" the Co-founder of the Energy Group. The allegations include international weapons deals & violation of FARA, Foreign Agent Registration Act. The principal of GAL LUFT as a foreign agent is alleged to be the Peoples Republic of China. More as the case is prosecuted by SDNY.
I’m in a constant state of picking my jaw up off the floor and replacing it on my face. Good grief smh.
Thank you, Bryan. I just read an article about Gal Luft (where do they get these names!!?). A creepy underworld type....
SDNY has a Press Release up apparently it is "Dr. Gal Luft" . Because the indiictment was 1st filed back in 2022, I am expecting an amended complaint & additional named Defendants.
Bryan, what is he “Dr.” of? Ways to overthrow the government??? How To Become a Chinese Spy? How to be a “piled high and dry” faker?
UPDATE ,11 am Eastern: Per BBC News, LUFT was arrested on 2/17/23 in Cyprus on US charges, but, jumped bail pending extradition. LUFT is likely hiding on a Yacht in an extradition free, island anchor.
For now, the defendant, GAL LUFT, is the 61 year old Executive Director of IAGS, (Institute for the Analysis of Global Security) and a former officer in the IDF, Israel Defense Force with significant combat experience. I thought but, cannot confirm that the fugitive Defendant has been noticeably absent the United States recently. LUFT, the R's secret witness is on the run ....🚨.
Major World events Today ... Sweeden has the Green Light to NATO per Secretary Jan Stoltenberg & the President of the United States.
Hydra! Perfect!
It’s a horror show. Will the anti-Trump ads coming from conservatives and Republicans make a difference? Undoubtedly there were critical voices in Weimar Germany. They were too little and too late to stop the rise of NSDAP and Hitler. Pray that America is different.
Thanks to Heather again for explaining all of this, because I would be clueless without this clarity of what is going on! I mean, I do not have time to read all of the sources and resources she goes to, nor would anyone ever expect someone such as myself to! I’m just you average, maybe a bit unusual in some ways, but basically average older person who likes to read and write and believes in the country, and feels like screaming at what’s going on. Worried for the country, for the world, isn’t the half of it. I’m also pretty busy taking care of a bunch of business .... who isn’t?
She is extraordinary in her energy and analysis. Why else would I be up at 3:30 a.m.?
Here, here, 3:45 here
I'm here, too! 3 AM in Las Vegas!
Nice to see you!
Sylvia, so glad you’re here! We are learning under Heather’s incredible guidance. I read her and others voraciously. But I love the community here and enjoy the comments as much as the “meat” of the letter. You are not “average”, at all!
Thanks Elisabeth...
The Republican Party is now the Fascist Party, a party that is openly trampling the Constitution to our shame and dragging us toward a total loss of Freedom. The system has failed. Congress has over 100 members who voted to overthrow an election and our Justice Department is tolerating politicians brazenly lying to us, abusing our courts, and even key members of SCOTUS are corrupt partisans. People tout the Rule of Law while Garland sits on a legal opinion that says you can't prosecute a President. To quote our Former Attorney General, Barr, who lied about the Mueller Report and much more, "Bullshit!". Tuberville's heinous crime (how did or anyone get such power) is just one of the problems of our Government.
Is it the media fascination with outliers like Joe McCarthy and tfg that kept them in the headlines for too long that empowers Tommy, Clarence, Donnie, and Jimmy? We don’t hear about the revolving door of Donnie’s administration when most everyone had ACTING in their title, we never hear about all the work Kamala Harris and others in the administration are doing, we barely hear about President Biden’s many thoughtful speeches. Hats off to Richardson, Vance, Rather, Kirschner, Maddow, O’Donnell and others for being the voices in the wilderness. Big liberal media is too afraid of being “political” (or maybe afraid of the nut jobs with guns.)
Here’s the original NYT article gifted. https://www.nytimes.com/2023/07/06/opinion/maga-america-trump.html?unlocked_article_code=ehGISChDNak_8Rk5-opUv6tQQIBbdh7lX51rPmlRWgFDIykiLx0qz94zC_rBeBiJ-5YJoeW1LnYv228jYK-gq_p9nY1iYEU6KBn06xOB0-CtloKOyKRL4wM1tUjsvK5WbsxtpH8fIdezWYA2WvzE_LXT6BNg6CntIPlg89TyokqiAtIUZtyYGYpFzj2wRnhK5SKSBpsRz4C8oeJixV5b1yyZv7jKQjY0PvyhnnePZOwnCmq7wsltzkAyrrH2wwoyXT4A2m9vwSg1quCrbDUn7Hf0z_VAgvQmKxn81dnGXC0sM0vM4_LmEdCMk4CYbdYVbFXP7Ez-afJTPwd0&smid=nytcore-ios-share&referringSource=articleShare
Thanks for the link. That is some powerful writing!
This is the best description of the Maga movement I've seen. I think it gives some insights into the people involved that most of the time we fail to see, or to acknowledge. I don't know the answer, but looking at it like this helps me to understand what those folks are looking for, And maybe somehow out of that, if enough of us can see them as human beings with human needs, there might grow something that will start to break down the barriers that both they and us have built.
If you think about fascists, or war mongers, or unethical businessmen, or corrupt politicians or really bullies of any sort, they do as they please in ways that harm others, Tuberville's and many recent "Republican" stunts included. Isn't that humanity's biggest single problem? Modern "Republicans" are about as useful to the commonwealth as the Corona virus.
(And about as dangerous.)
I'm a lifelong Democrat who believes that we need a functioning two-party system in the country. A pendulum swings both ways to keep time and make progress. A single party in charge leads to hubris and certain failure. However, today's GOP is a band of MAGA extremists hellbent on destroying our democratic and judicial norms, personal liberty, national security and climate. Neither reason nor shame seem to work to change their direction; Tuberville and his MAGA ilk must be soundly and roundly turned out of office and replaced with staunch moderates.
Time to prosecute the Republican co-conspiritors in the attempted coop on 1-6! Send to prison quickly.
While my heart agrees with you, my head agrees with Merrick Garland, a man who takes his time to have all of his facts verified so that the eventual indictments will lead to convictions.
Forget about the co-conspiritors. Go straight to the top and hold the mob boss accountable. I don't necessarily care so much about the others just following orders. Maybe they should be prosecuted, but the top guy (Trump) is top priority.
Just following orders does not always cut it (culpability). Is the current Republican Part a reflection of Trump or vice versa. Some of the rank and file are dupes, but the leadership is all in this together, and the "hydra" (as above) would grow another, perhaps more virulent head unless we cast the net widely. RICO?
I’m in favor of casting the net to Perry, Jordan and other congress people who were/are in league with tfg and were so on 1/6. I’m waiting for that shoe to drop.
To the extent that they were proactive co-conspirators, they were very much part of a great crime.
I agree 100% about culpability. But one should not only prosecute the underlings while ignoring the boss at the top of the organization.
Absolutely, but the gambit against organized crime usually works it's way up from the bottom, pressing underlings to rat on overlords. Gotta catch 'em all. It 's only bad when they settle for only prosecuting a few mules and let the kingpins run free.
The extremist are claiiming the perps are martyrs. Jow about the ones paying for Trumps legal fees! Little minds ready prey for the turkey buzzard Republicans.
Turkey buzzard republicans, I like that
So so dysfunctional these MAGAs that they only disrupt and lie and now it seems fight with each other. Actually it’s embarrassing--let alone disgraceful—that these wannabe authoritarians are still in office.
Perhaps the mainstream media might clarify exactly the GOP cult with its agenda— win at all costs while taking away all personal liberty from a woman’s body; dictating who you can love or what books you can read; ignoring extreme climate disruptions even as communities keep suffering; or advocating alternative “truth” while denying the validity of science let alone understanding history; to encouraging violence toward those with whom you disagree…).
Should this be the news message?
Shouldn’t the media keep pointing out the serious consequences if this non-sense keeps tearing its ugly head.
Think about how many people are now being threatened online and in person because they criticize the former guy insurrectionist or the Florida governor/ dictator or the next MAGA WANNABE who urges political violence or commits the next gun massacre.
NO ONE wants to live in such a society or world.
So let’s tell regular media that that’s what we need to read or hear in the news. Decency, intelligence of some sort, belief in the United States as it tries to move toward a third century by trying to become a more perfect Union. Everyone needs to be clear about this.
I agree 100% with everything you've said! Maybe start your own blog :-).
The only thing I have to add is that regarding denying science, conservatives are very susceptible to group think as opposed to the needed open mindedness that science demands. One needs to follow the evidence and be willing to give up ones certain beliefs that stem from religious upbringing (while keeping ones religion in tact and adapting as necessary) or just rigid thinking in general.
Also implied that all sources of information are biased, as that’s been driven into their heads incessantly by infotainment disinformation. Presented with facts and numbers the most frequent response I get is “ I don’t care about facts”. Usually accompanied by a shift in goalposts.
Group think, Rupert’s forte
And serious consequences already unleashed, such as immigrant families still deprived of their children, not to mention the probable PTSD for families separated even if restored. That was and is crime against humanity that does not go away just because it is out of sight. It seems to me that our responsibilities grow alongside the degree to which what we do affects the lives of others, be it what we purport to be "the news" or how we treat people as individuals, society and government. We can't do an adequate job of the of, by and for the people thing using woefully inadequate information.
Why? Just take a look at who owns the Media.....watch any nightly national news programs and notice how they all have the exact same stories....its like that on all the local news programs too, here in DahSantis land.....
Despite HCR's list of reasons we might want to become serious drinkers, I want to address a trial I fear will not take place in enough time to make sure that Trump doesn't win the next election.
Judge Cannon, I believe, will go along with Trump team's effort to delay, delay, delay. I think we will lose this race against time and once again we need to hold Merrick Garland responsible. His deliberative nature which made him a natural for the Supreme Court, has made him the overly cautious Attorney General who delayed taking action against Trump.
Garland finally appointed Jack Smith but didn't give him the head start he needed and the calendar is an enemy he cannot defeat. Trump getting away with murder will overtake any of the crises on HRC's list!
Mina, your heart is 'in the right place', 'I feel your pain'! Besides a Garland slow start and a Slow Cannon, the classified nature of the documents will further slow the case down. I urge you to listen to former FBI Dir. McCabe's podcast (link below) and guest (former CIA lawyer) here for a better understanding. But if Georgia indicts (indications are it will), Jack Smith indicts for Jan. 6th insurrection and/or fake electors fraud, together with New York's indictment which is stronger than media understands, it is highly unlikely the guy wins them all and fairly likely he wins none. The only thing worse than what this orange clown did is a government that cuts corners and denies ANYONE proper due process, especially a former office holder. Also note, a GOP President can NOT pardon state convictions! Georgia governor can NOT pardon Trump, New York governor (a Dem) could but highly unlikely. “Wheels of justice grind slow but grind fine”
― Sun Tzu https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/episode-32-the-education-of-aileen-cannon-feat-brian-greer/id1317481380?i=1000620296760
Perhaps a strategy is to simply create enough doubt about Trump to whittle away some of his base. Sadly, I don’t believe he will ever be held accountable on a Federal level for attempting to overthrow the govt, removing national security docs, etc. Jack Smith can only do so much.
Maybe indictment’s on a state level? Asking for 11,789 votes. Taxes?
Perhaps there are some Guardians of the Galaxy out there who are getting tired of the GOP inertia and stupid tacky stuff. And its virtually impossible to continue to dispel the reality of what Biden has done to lift this country up. Its too bad the media focuses on lap tops and Trump and not Bidens legislation and international advancements. Would love to see a list of all the states that will be recipients of revenue? The companies that will be providing materials, technology, clean energy, services, systems, transportation, employees will all see growth. That shld attract attention for shareholders and municipalities.
I feel this same desperation!! Overwhelmingly so...
Christine, even living in Happy Valley isn't enough to make you happy;-)
Living here does make me happy! Central PA is stunningly beautiful. We are somewhat isolated except for PSU being here. I realize you are teasing me Mina…it is the state of affairs of our country that disheartens me. Happy Valley makes me happy, for sure!
Yes, Christine, I was teasing you, but as someone who was born in Pennsylvania and lived there for 65 years, I agree that there are many beautiful places in my former state! Keeping ourselves happy during these difficult days is a challenge we're all facing and I'm glad to hear that you are succeeding!
Tuberville doesn’t think white nationalists are racist, either. 🤔
https://www.cnn.com/videos/politics/2023/07/11/tommy-tuberville-white-nationalists-military-ts-vpx.cnn
A friend with ties to Auburn says he was a lousy football coach, too.
He doesn’t know the definition of “nationalist.” Even as it was explained to him, he seemed mystified and continued blathering that he doesn’t have a racist bone in his body...because coach and had Black players.
Oh good grief!!
The Magots equate with the most aggressive cancerous tumor. May the force be with President Biden and with us all!
The always proactive President's steadiness is something to cling to. What he's undertaking this week is prodigious. He MUST receive the support of the whole country. Saudis moving the golf tournament to Trump Doral? USA is on a knife-edge.
Reading through the thread Biden's name rarely comes up so your mention of him caught my attention...why? because he's boring. He doggedly works like a dog to make things better for average Joe without the drama. So why do the rebs hate him so much. How can you hate boring?
CBS This Morning interviewed Gary Shapely. I don’t remember what day it was, but it was the last day I watched CBS This Morning.
I refuse to breathe the hot air of unsupported conspiracy theories published on mass media or social media.
Damn, back to NBC, or maybe MSNBC
I do think Tuberville is in league with Trump to prevent promotions until Trump wins the presidency so he can install candidates with sworn allegiance to Trump much like his plans for the Civil Service. Thanks Heather for this painful reading of Americas slide into Fascism .
It is extremely painful!
Professor's articulation is remarkably clear and insightful, illuminates the challenges surrounding the confirmation process for key military positions. The absence of a confirmed commandant for the Marine Corps adds a compelling twist to the narrative, and underscords the impact of political obstructionism on the armed forces.
Love how the examination of the NATO summit and its multifaceted challenges presents a thought-provoking analysis of Ukraine’s defense and the urgent issue of climate change, and how she deftly navigates these global concerns, showcasing a deep understanding of the geopolitical landscape and its potential consequences! Big fan.
-Abe
Author, The AI-NFORMATION: How to build startups using AI and chatGPT.
millionai.substack.com
Abe:
If I may add to this on the USMC.
Right down to the lowest Private we knew what our mission was. As an E-5, I had more responsibility than some officers. Not having a Commandant will not cripple the mission of the Marine Corps. I do not take this to be that serious an issue. I am sure the next in command can handle this and the paperwork. Don't make it anymore than a slight delay. Give no importance to Tommy.
Bill H - I know nothing about the inner workings of the military, but I'm hoping/trusting that the Marines can fully function without the top ranking official being in place. Thanks.
Julia:
There are far greater things for us to worry about than whether Tommy (what grown adult at his age runs around being called "Tommy?") will stifle the promotion of officers. His efforts to rile people up deserve a loud yawn and a comment of "Is this the only thing you have as a priority on your plate of things to do as a Senator?" Tommy warrants no attention. He is not even XMilitary.
At 68 years old, he probably "just" escaped the Draft or found a way to be exempted from it. The state he represents has a football coach for a Senator. Wow!
If you want something to be concerned about, keep an eye on what the FED is doing to kill Labor's income growth in a search for the Holy Grail of 2% yearly national growth. The FED will eventually succeed but their efforts will reap a greater impact on the economy than what they wished. But then, its just real Labor . . .
Gone overboard in explaining this. Just more explanation of what I see.