A story in the New York Times today by Jonathan Swan, Charlie Savage, and Maggie Haberman outlined how former president Donald Trump and his allies are planning to create a dictatorship if voters return him to power in 2024.
It just takes your breath away, the blatant declaration of the authoritarian plan. Republicans won't fight this monster. We must.
“...increasing the president’s authority over every part of the federal government that now operates, by either law or tradition, with any measure of independence from political interference by the White House.”
Republicans have been stitching this monster together since at least Reagan. The "Monster" is just a manifestation of the absolute-power-obsessed modern "Republican" soul.
Like most criminals at the end of their careers of crime trump and his enablers have become reckless and most dangerous to themselves: think Tony Montana of “Scarface”. They destroy everything and everyone around them. Jack Smith and his team of brave prosecutors are coming for them with the full weight of the Federal Government behind them. It’s too bad we have to spend any energy at all battling against domestic enemies, but we must and are doing so. There is no question that trump will be considered the most vilified of all American presidents.
Aaron Burr was pretty self destructive and he left an infamous legacy for himself. But unlike the cowardly and insipid trump, Burr was a great patriot, fighter for our Revolution and brilliant lawyer who came within one vote in Congress of becoming our third president, instead of Thomas Jefferson. If you’re seeking a good summertime read, I recommend Gore Vidal’s, “Burr”; it’s a great exploration of old New York and the career of Burr, seen through the eyes of Burr’s loyal assistant. Funny, poignant, tragic...wonderful.
Their whole enterprise now depends of sustaining illusion. That unquestionably dangerous, but has got to be a vulnerability, leaving them with so little to stand on.
Please tell us where you have discussed the downfall of the Whig Party or any other party. I know I saw it or heard it on your podcast, but don't know where to look for it now, and I would like to see it again. Thank you.
My sole bucket-list item, Irenie? Seeing Hamilton on Broadway in New York City. (“You could have been anywhere in the world tonight, and you came to New York City!)
Great link — thanks for including it. I subscribe to Disney Plus just to be able to watch the musical whenever I get the bug. Brilliant work. A truly inspired piece of American Art.
An historical day today…we move forward. The brave work is important as an accounting looms. We can rejoice. A great wrongdoing is being resolutely addressed. Our democracy is strong like granite, oak, the ocean and the stars that spangle our beautiful flag. God Bless America.
And let us not forget that if Trump is in Oval Office he will give more outrageous tax cuts to the filth rich basically “starving” the rest of the country. I ask, will the “middle class” survive? And what about those in low income situations – will they sink further down?
I think it was Venezuela that was one of the richest countries in the world until they went down the dictatorship road. We have to fight this beast. We have to fight it now and every single day going forward.
Exactly right., the point being tyrannical control of our lives for the benefit of the very few. Considering the role of the ultra-far right Evangelicals, they will invade and seize our public and daily life. We have a lot to defend here, and a great deal to lose.
Your question reminds me of passages in Stranger In a Strange Land, especially the scene where the lady hanging her washing out on the line hids our hero from the police. I don't want this to be our future.
Tax breaks, diminution of responsibilities, and subsidies for the ultra-rich, "Austerity", exploitation, and heavy-handed control for the serfs. Been that, done that, and from what I understand, it sucked. I think that under the fol-de-rol of Reaganomics, I think that was always the plan.
Tell the Pope. He should take responsibility for this unholy problem. Roughly half of the Republicans are Catholic. Did you know that the French Constitution has a clause protecting aethiesm?
Cannot remember having a conversation about politics since 2009 when I didn't plead with someone to stop using the term conservative. The so-called conservatives have been radicals since Newt. While I'm pretty sure I've had zero effect, I keep hearing and reading the term, I persist.
I see "radical" as another largely misappropriated word, that literally means "root", source of "radish". Technically, the work of Galileo was "radical", as was the politcal philosophy of the US Constitution. It is a fundamental change, but that can be good or bad, but somehow "radical" has become synonymous with excessive "extreme" or fanatical. Technically a responsible response to climate change will need to be genuinely radical, but I suppose I wouldn't call it that.
it's a difficult argument since words eventually mean, conversationally, whatever people think they mean, although I see value in challenging misapplied words chosen to mask treachery. Yes, I see a "conservative" small "c" approach as a compatible and sometimes necessary compliment to a bold, innovative one. I look to science as an example. What we really mean by "Conservative" in the political sense is "authoritarian".
And we the people must make sure they lose their campaigns. Each of us that read these things I’d guess do so with disbelief. That disbelief, that belief that it could not really happen must not be allowed to lull us into complacency. We must Vote and we must convince those around us to pay attention and to vote also
'Alito and Thomas Write Opinion Declaring That Yachts Are People'
'WASHINGTON (The Borowitz Report)—Samuel Alito and Clarence Thomas have stirred controversy by co-authoring a Supreme Court opinion declaring that yachts are people.'
'The sweeping opinion, which yachts’-rights organizations immediately hailed as “long overdue,” grants the luxury vessels the unlimited ability to entertain government officials on their decks in order to gain political influence.'
“For decades, yachts have been tireless in their struggle to be treated like human beings,” Harland Dorrinson, the president of the National Council on Equality for Boats, said. “For them, this victory represents the end of a long, hard regatta.” (Satire, NewYorker)
You scared me this morning Fern. I was reading in a hurry and kind of skimmed the first part of your post, then I got to the bottom and realize you were quoting satire from the New Yorker. Heather's letter this morning really is scary in a real way. (Unfortunately it is real that Alito and Thomas just make stuff and it isn't satire.)
Yes. No accountability. I’m not sure it was revered Chief Joseph who put the red light on with his remarks about Corporations and what they truly represented.
No Fern, I was just surprised to see you quote satire, not really scared. I so enjoy and respect your commitments because they are so well researched. Thank you for the time and effort you put into this.
Carol, what about Andy Borowitz, he wrote what you just read? He created The Borowitz Report, a satirical news column...', 'for which he won the first-ever National Press Club award for humor.' It was acquired by The New Yorker in 2012. His two most recent books were both best-sellers: “The 50 Funniest American Writers,” and “An Unexpected Twist,” … His latest book is “Profiles in Ignorance: How America’s Politicians Got Dumb and Dumber”. How does that title strike you?
"Profiles in Ignorance" should be mandatory reading for anyone with a pulse. And it will be out in paperback soon, I believe with added material (the clown car).
Yes, I am very familiar with Borowitz and I appreciate him greatly. I had just read what you posted in The New Yorker online. (Have been reading The New Yorker throughout 45's reign and its humor maintained my sanity!) But I have not read books by Borowitz. My daughter and brother have also recommended them to me. It's just a matter of not having enough time to read all I want to read.
This crap has been going on since they declared that Corporations are citizens, which was bogus then and remains bogus now. I think I'd better take a break from writing because I think I might give myself a heart attack and that won't help. Onward and out with the greedy bastards.
I agree and this letter is especially scary and of course, we have a troll or two taking all the air out of the thread. I am going outside to continue picking blueberries and some other things in my garden.
Hi Fern, I just read the Horowitz Report. Very interesting & funny. And how much more insane can the SCOTUS get declaring yachts are people. I like this part: “The public should note that yacht owners have traditionally referred to their boats as ‘she.” Ans “Given that, this is the most pro-female opinion this Court is likely to issue.”
Hi LINDA. You read a short 'news satire' by Andy Borowitz. It was labeled as a satire at the end. If you scroll down a little from that post, I wrote a little about Borowitz. He has a regular series called 'The Borowitz Report' in the New Yorker Magazine, from which that was taken.
How close are we to where Germany was in the early 30s? If this does not wake up Americans we are doomed. Who said it can't happen here? Wake up folks the train is leaving the station.
There is a book by Victor Klemperer titled "I Will Bear Witness 1933-1941, A Diary of the Nazi Years". It has the slow creeping feeling of horror that our current days are like. I hope that Heather's writings are not viewed similarly in the future. Hopefully, people wake up and realize how much they truly value is at risk as the MAGAs march toward dictatorship.
Also revealing: In The Garden of Beasts by Erik Larson. Novelistic history/narrative nonfiction look at Berlin, 1933. “Speaks volumes about why the world did not recognize the grave threat posed by Hitler until Berlin and Europe were awash in blood and terror.”
Also read this book, and I agree. I worry that too many try to normalize this as politics. What Trump and the right wing are doing right now is trying to normalize dictatorship. There are many fools who would believe that it will benefit them.
Dave ! The Problem, is There are TOO MANY, of MANKIND, Slugging around, " in the MATRIX !! PEOPLE, with ANY Sense, Have Got to WAKE UP !! ( I guess, All of the COFFEE, has Boiled Away, so that Great Aroma, HAS VAPOURIZED ! )
Harvey, here in Fla the train is long gone. We are already a fascist State, thanks to the ambition, poor judgement and retaliatory politics of our Governor and his brainwashed legislature. Steve Scmidt calls him "Trump lite".....imo, worse, in most ways ( except nowhere near the crazily, destructive charismatic personality of tfg).
And, on the way to Auschwitz ... if we do not take focused actions (plural) now. Many paths not the least of which is the legal vulnerability of "Project 2025". I will update comments through 2023 & 2024 when on point to this Community.
One starting point is NYT's 7/17/23 "Trump & Allies to Forge Plans to Increase Power in 2025" by stalwarts Jonathan Swan, Maggie Haberman & Charlie Savage. NYT subscribers the can "Gift " the article for FREE to anyone.
Monday Breaking Update: Jack Smith served a "Target Letter" on Donald J. Trump on tfg's actions to overturn the 2020 Election last Sunday. Note that tfg sat on tne Target Letter for more than 24 hours. tfg also got 96 hours notice to appear at Jack Smith's Grand Jury. Trump will not appear obviously which is a Target's right. The Indictment of Trump is likely before 7/31 as I have posted before.
I checked out "Project 2025" whose official propaganda uses the phrase "Presidential Transition Project" (sic). In case their message is unclear to anyone as of today, in their corporate logo "Project 2025" the numbers "25" aar in red. These are continuing overt acts of Sedition in my legal opinion.
Recall that Jack Smith uses "Speaking Indictments" where every word is backed by FRE admissible evidence. I now suspect Mr. Smith will beat my projected date of 7/31.
TODAY's UPDATE: Per Professor Joyce Vance the Michigan AG has applied for the indictment & arrest of the MichiganfrsuMichiganfrsudMichiganfrselectors.
BRYAN ! Liked Your Quote ; On the Way, to Auschwitz ! Thats EXACTLEY ! What will Come of US !, IF, the MAGGOTS ! Gain Control ! I wanted to Comment , Sooner, But I did not want to Offend Our Jewish Brothers and Sisters ! ,OR ALL of the other Mankind, that SUFFERED That ABSOLUTE ATROCITY ! It is AMAZING ! , that GOD! , has not REPENTED, for a SECOND TIME ! in the PROCESS, of Creating Mankind !!
Mark, months ago, I posted the details of my visit decafes ago to the Holocaust Museum in Washington DC on LFAA. With one exception, I spent nearly 3 hours exclusively on tne TOP floor of the Museum where the history, photographs, exhbits, museum artifacts & the curator's written details submerged me into deep dive into the 1930-1939 historical period during which there were scores of forshadowing events including attacks on disabled people, gay folks, social democrats, Jews & the blocking of refugees from coming to the United States. In the esrly 1930's the train arrival stations from Germany into Paris were very busy when Hitler assumed the Chancelllor position, the first formal step into the Holocaust during which tens of millions of people died including more than 15 million Russians at the western fronts to Stalingrad.
On my way out of the DC Museum I stopped to see famous color footage of the WW II liberation of one of the death camps. Absolutely never again.
What train? There are no f***ing trains. Wish there had been during my 36-hour airport ordeal at the end of an otherwise pleasant vacay. A train would have been a nice option!
PS: I get your point--just had to grind my favorite ax a little
Doomed? That's true if you frighten people. Instead, you have to motivate them. I don't consider this country doomed because of what I read, but from people who spew fear on these comment threads. Come on, buck up.
We read a lot of polemic that feels to me like it's as distorted as some of the crap the right wing spews. It's words. Nothing has actually happened. I read just now that Trump is whining again, in a long verbal vomit on Truth Social, saying he got a target letter from the grand jury investigating the Jan 6 insurrection. It was so bonkers that no sane human being would take him seriously. I am trusting the American people to keep this manipulative piece of crap out of the WH. I can't do anything else. I'm not worried about it because I am trusting Jack Smith, not freaking out over Trump's ranting and raving. Our government is a good and strong one.
Sadly, Trump’s whine-song is like the siren’s call to the sailors who were driven mad by it. There are a not insignificant number of Americans who totally buy into his schtick and bow down to him as some kind of savior (so so so hard to wrap my head around that!). Others who have a radically different view of what they want this country to be (those mostly in the shadows surrounding him) and see him as a useful tool to move this country administratively (Legislative, Judicial & Executive…and civil service) significantly to right. Like Toni Morrison said “when someone shows you who they are, believe them”—so I take them at their word what vision they see. Maybe a term that combines autocracy, kakistocracy & oligarchy to describe their philosophy. It will be all hands on deck to thwart this & is no time to fiddle with so-called 3rd parties, Dem challengers, etc.—Joe’s been doing a damn fine job given his constraints IMHO, let’s keep rowing this direction with sure and strong strokes at the oar.
I'm stealing the Rump's "whine-song". And you are right - and it's SO HARD to figure out why anyone would find his words and his actions to be worthy of giving more than two seconds on, or taking the least bit seriously, or respectable in the least. I just can't wrap my mind around this yahoo's appeal! (I mean, I get it that some, perhaps many, are in it for the money and whatever fame is incurred in being in the orbit of the Rump - at least until he's in prison, or under it - when "fame" converts to "notoriety" - but those can't be in the majority, can they?) And if they do feel this way about the Rump, HOW can their brainwashing be converted into rational thought? This must be the ultimate goal, because as long as there are many people thinking/believing in the Rump, the American Dream will remain out of reach for some other people - and that must not be.
Marycat, I love this. Buck up we must and intimidating people is just what bullies try to do. We can and must do better. I'm tired of being horrified and dismayed. I'm pissed off and fed up and ready to fight back against the zombie monsters.
The "slow walking" of the two serious legal issues Trump faces, the Mar-a-Lago documents case and the Georgia interference case, pose the most urgent threat we now face (IMHO). If the DOJ and The Georgia courts don't bring these cases to a head before we get too far into 2024, I fear Trump will never be held accountable. In that event, all bets are off.
I agree that these trials need to happen, and happen soon, but even if he were to be found guilty of all of the possible accusations, do any of us really believe that it would change many MAGA, or for that matter many Republican, votes? On Sunday’s Jack podcast - which I would encourage you all to check out - the point was made that if a candidate were, in fact, innocent of the crimes with which they had been charged, they would want the speediest trial possible so that they would be exonerated well before the election. Interesting and obvious point.
Unfortunately, it seems apparent now, Betsy that it will take a long time for the MAGA devotees to come to their senses...if ever. Some will completely ruin their own lives, serve jail terms and even worse, suffer deep personal humiliation from the error of their ways. It was tragic indeed for our fledgling nation when thousands of Tories left for England at the end of the American Revolution but things turned out quite well in the end. The majority of Americans will move forward and our country will keep becoming, as it always has and must.
KD, unfortunately there is no “England” for the MAGAt’s to flee to!!! Hmmm, maybe offer free one-way tickets to Türkiye? It is puzzling to me that they see themselves as the “true Patriots” and all others as traitors….seems like fundamental differences in the vision and belief of what the USA stands for (well, the ideal that it is working toward anyway). The script has totally been flipped and is amazing (as in horrifying) to watch it unfold & what they are saying out loud, tho’ I think those w/ their hands on the levers of power & money are quietly trying to nurture their vision by financially supporting the MAGA-supporting groups. My hope is that despite great efforts to prevent it (voting rights repression, gerrymandering, et.), the majority will rise up and put down this creeping putsch.
I should also have added Hungary to the list of far-right-sliding “democracies”. Many in the current Republican Party seem to be smitten, especially, with Orban & Hungary.
Ah, yes, the Rings of Power….And remember how Gollum became OBSESSED when he LOST his PRECIOUS???
And, yes, Sauron was the Corporate Head of the Dark World and demanded LOYALTY from all of his subjects. He wasn’t going to let those Little People (with the Hairy Toes) anywhere near Mount Doom.
Even back then, people were saying that Bilbo was too old and uninformed to face the Evil (and visibly ORANGE) Underworld. Bilbo believed in true SMALL government, and, he believed in the next generation - in the person of Frodo Baggins.
“Libertarian” is a made-up word from a cynical, neonazi fascist, Charles KKKoch. It is one of may euphemisms he placed into the right-wing vernacular to sugarcoat his agenda. It belongs right beside terms like “Citizens United,” “Peace keepers,” or the weaponization of words like, “liberal,” “swift boating” or “Hillary.”
In every single election. Make it your business to stay informed about when and where your local elections are being held, and help out your neighbors in getting registered and in voting in those elections as well as the big state and nationals.
Perhaps HCR should have mentioned the constitutional underpinning of the Republican plan to "consolidate" the various departments and agencies of the Executive Branch under the authority of the President.
This is the so-called "unitary executive theory," favored by William Barr and others. See "The Misguided Unitary Executive Theory Gains Ground":
I have to ask if HCR's use of the phrase "establish a dictatorship" is overblown rhetoric. Perhaps it is her assessment that Trump and Co. plan to go far beyond the Unitary Executive theory in their vision for a reworked federal government. I am open to the thought but not convinced.
I suspect that you did not read HCR's latest letter carefully. She packaged together snippets from conservative ideologues with accusatory summaries from opposing news media to create a toxic blend of propaganda.
Asserting the President's hands-on authority over all the departments and agencies of the Executive Branch (that is, the "Unitary Executive theory of constitutional interpretation, which I do NOT support) is different from reaching for dictatorial control over the Legislative and Judicial Branches.
JOHN The Problem, is You Want to Support a Heart, of a man, That is DECEITFULLY WICKED, and is Hardened As hard, as One Each, PHARAOH ! of the Days, of MOSES ! GODS Soon Intervention WILL, Clean UP! This Whole MESS !
John is a rabbit hole in waiting. He loves to draw you in with outrageous comments and then engage with dubious sources. Trying to torture us is one of his hobbies. Best to ignore. Which I just didn't do.... :)
Hey Bill. Surprisingly, as negatively as I react to this persons combative commentary, I did not find these particular sources dubious, but, then I am no expert. I will be checking them, in the future, for further SCOTUS discussion coverage.
I suspect that you did not read HCR's latest letter carefully. She packaged together snippets from conservative ideologues with accusatory summaries from opposing news media to create a toxic blend of propaganda.
Asserting the President's hands-on authority over all the departments and agencies of the Executive Branch (that is, the "Unitary Executive theory of constitutional interpretation, which I do NOT support) is different from reaching for dictatorial control over the Legislative and Judicial Branches.
I suspect that you did not read HCR's latest letter carefully. She packaged together snippets from conservative ideologues with accusatory summaries from opposing news media to create a toxic blend of propaganda.
Asserting the President's hands-on authority over all the departments and agencies of the Executive Branch (that is, the "Unitary Executive theory of constitutional interpretation, which I do NOT support) is different from reaching for dictatorial control over the Legislative and Judicial Branches.
Your comment is typical of a boistrous minority around here, sneering at me and mischaracterizing where I'm coming from while studiously avoiding any engagement with the ideas that I bring to the discussion (such as, for example, my thought that HCR misrepresented the conservative Republican "Unitary Executive" theory as a quest for dictatorship).
I suspect that you did not read HCR's latest letter carefully. She packaged together snippets from conservative ideologues with accusatory summaries from opposing news media to create a toxic blend of propaganda.
Asserting the President's hands-on authority over all the departments and agencies of the Executive Branch (that is, the "Unitary Executive theory of constitutional interpretation, which I do NOT support) is different from reaching for dictatorial control over the Legislative and Judicial Branches.
That is truly the power of belief John. You get to believe whatever you want.
But, back in reality space, when you consolidate power into one government entity that also places power with a single individual, like the Presidency, that is the definition of:
Mike S, re definition of Dictatorship; folks of John’s ilk have their own “neo fact alternative” convenience dictionary. Words mean whatever they want them to mean according to the situation
See “traitor”, “patriot”, “science”, “evidence”,
In a world where words mean something, they get confused
asserting the President's hands-on authority over all the departments and agencies of the Executive Branch is different from reaching for dictatorial control over the Legislative and Judicial Branches.
I agree. Remember separation of powers (on the stone-paper-scissors principle). As I see it (from afar) there is a serious risk that those key elements of democracy (Judiciary/Congress/executive) are all being morphed into one which would mean there is no check on government excesses. You can call it what you like but it smells, feels, looks and tastes like dictatorship.
Asserting the President's hands-on authority over all the departments and agencies of the Executive Branch is different from reaching for dictatorial control over the Legislative and Judicial Branches.
Asserting the President's hands-on authority over all the departments and agencies of the Executive Branch is different from reaching for dictatorial control over the Legislative and Judicial Branches.
Are you really that ignorant?
p.s. I see you quote from the genocidal racist Bertrand Russell, who wrote that "the less prolific races will have to defend themselves from the more prolific races by means which are disgusting even if they are necessary."
Mike S, asserting the President's hands-on authority over all the departments and agencies of the Executive Branch is different from reaching for dictatorial control over the Legislative and Judicial Branches.
If trump "unifies" the president's control over the executive branch, who do you think he will he bring together? They will be people loyal to trump who will do his bidding. trump will be the last word on everything. He wants to be a dictator. His supporters want an authoritarian regime. Republicans are telling us every day what kind of government they want. It's past time to start believing them.
Making the executive unitary is exactly the same thing as a dictatorship. Both are government by one person. Maybe you can wrap your head around this; No matter how you pronounce tomato, it's still a tomato.
What Trump is doing is classic fascist maneuvering and those of us who know our history refuse to repeat it.
Precisely. He thinks he is God and has told us he is a "jeanius" and the only one who can "fix everything." He is an addict with a cult following. desantis is blatantly morphing FL into a fascist state using the same Nazi playbook dictators use, as does trump. The strange thing is, they have such shortsightedness on how their ideas create nothing but the destruction and poverty of minds, creativity and forward thinking...and, ultimately, serious danger to the rest of us who want the freedoms of our social democracy for ourselves and for the next generations. We are the employers. We pay for all of this with our hard-earned money and good will. Social security does not belong to the government—it belongs to us. Our people have fought and died in too many wars to have these idiots abscond with democracy. Time for Women, Men and Others to stand up to this BS and start marching to win on all our streets. I cannot believe our passivity. What did we learn about Germany when the mind-controlled Germans began dragging people out of their homes and businesses? No one stood up to them. Do we want to live with the ilk of Putin, Dutuerte, Jong Un, MTG, Boebart, Gaetz, etc. as our leaders? They are a waste of our time, our money and our life energy. Geeze. But we need to wake up and pay attention. Maybe it is time to grab all these wannabe dictator guys and gals, and their guns, and inject them with large doses of estrogen and put them out to pasture in barbed-wire golf courses while we save the country. This mind-controlled cult appear to be AI experiments gone wrong. Just like the Nazis. Why do people want to be so unhappy? An addict the other day said, people who happy never become addicts. What a wise addict! I would include that infantile need for power over others as a super addiction. We must deal with it...and swiftly.
Asserting the President's hands-on authority over all the departments and agencies of the Executive Branch is different from reaching for dictatorial control over the Legislative and Judicial Branches.
Asserting the President's hands-on authority over all the departments and agencies of the Executive Branch is different from reaching for dictatorial control over the Legislative and Judicial Branches.
When you're saying that if elected you will fire everyone and defund every agency not in line with your thinking YOU ARE SAYING YOU WANT TO BE A DICTATOR.
But you know that. This is what trolls do, are you a troll? Why else would you be tippy-toeing around an illiberal movement in a liberal democracy forum? You'll waste no more of my time John.
Asserting the President's hands-on authority over all the departments and agencies of the Executive Branch is different from reaching for dictatorial control over the Legislative and Judicial Branches.
John, it's pretty clear that Trump wants all of the power, to do anything he wants to do, however he wants to do it. It's how he's worked as a businessman and "entertainer" on Reality TV and his 4 years as an elected President. Loyal people are great, the best. Once they figure out who he really is and they leave or turn on him, they are incompetent fools...that he never really knew. He's totally consistent....and the worst possible person to be anywhere near the WH.
Mike, I totally agree with you. But we should not forget how he stiffs contractors and even some of his attorneys. He is on a power grab of the highest order and I am scared s***less!
I think there are also his “loyalists” who pander to him and see him as a means to an end…that is a remaking of the USA, contrary to the Constitution & Bill of Rights into an authoritarian-“Christian” state. He likes being in “control” but I doubt he knows how any of it works….he’s all speech & strut…no real governance.
Mike Wicklein, I am inclined to meet you halfway regarding your assessment of Trump. But beyond that is the constitutional question raised by the "unitary executive" theory.
Perhaps you are well aware that asserting the President's hands-on authority over all the departments and agencies of the Executive Branch is different from reaching for dictatorial control over the Legislative and Judicial Branches.
John to Mark's point, Trump is a very unhealthy human being. He is not the smartest guy in the room, he has to be right, he never takes the blame for anything. He is as toxic as toxic gets. He will ride his big lie that led to J 6 to his grave. He has to. He is incapable of saying...I messed up. Does that make him a dictator? No. But the only way he can operate is to have total control and loyalty. Whatever idea he has is the best in that moment...and you are either loyal and on board or you're a fool and he doesn't know you. He is king material. A real democracy is not his form of ruling. Look at the world leaders he admires. The people who still love him, warts and all...and I know some of them, grew up with them, some are family...even the ones who value loyalty are starting to see the problems. They have been fed so much propaganda, it's hard to "get real". I really want to see Chris Christie debate him. I'd pay good money to be there. Good luck with your life. May truth and good sense prevail, so that democracy as messy as it is continue on another 250 years. Peace.
Asserting the President's hands-on authority over all the departments and agencies of the Executive Branch is different from reaching for dictatorial control over the Legislative and Judicial Branches.
Asserting the President's hands-on authority over all the departments and agencies of the Executive Branch is different from reaching for dictatorial control over the Legislative and Judicial Branches.
Asserting the President's hands-on authority over all the departments and agencies of the Executive Branch is different from reaching for dictatorial control over the Legislative and Judicial Branches.
Imagine, Mr. Schmeeckle, that I became president after Trump's establishment of his extreme version of a unitary executive system, and I hated corporations and and science. What would happen if I fired every bureaucrat that resisted extreme regulations on every facet of business. What would happen if I fired everyone who resisted my moves to end all defense-related research?
You might want want your favored policies to be implemented by an unbound Trump, but your want civil war if what I imagined came to pass.
If you think those with extreme anti-corpiration and anti-science can never get elected once Trump's vision is realized, you really are part of the problem.
The point, John, is that Trump will weaponize all bureaucracies, and that's bad. That you state to James that you don't favor the unitary executive doesn't jive with your defense of everything around Trump. That you pick out Soros as a core evil in society tells me that you've swallowed the white supremacist anti-Semitic conspiracy bullshit whole, without chewing. That you proudly link to a previous reply to someone else tells me you are lost. Bye.
I suspect that you did not read HCR's latest letter carefully. She packaged together snippets from conservative ideologues with accusatory summaries from opposing news media to create a toxic blend of propaganda.
Asserting the President's hands-on authority over all the departments and agencies of the Executive Branch (that is, the "Unitary Executive theory of constitutional interpretation, which I do NOT support) is different from reaching for dictatorial control over the Legislative and Judicial Branches.
John. I do not think HCR traffics in hyperbole. Her words are carefully chosen. Judicious language as we all know. The alarm expressed is real and frightening
I suspect that you did not read HCR's latest letter carefully. She packaged together snippets from conservative ideologues with accusatory summaries from opposing news media to create a toxic blend of propaganda.
Asserting the President's hands-on authority over all the departments and agencies of the Executive Branch (that is, the "Unitary Executive theory of constitutional interpretation, which I do NOT support) is different from reaching for dictatorial control over the Legislative and Judicial Branches.
Not reduced at all. I replied to Mike S's obnoxious and inaccurate observation about grammar, in a context where he was going around trolling me.
My basic point is this:
Asserting the President's hands-on authority over all the departments and agencies of the Executive Branch is different from reaching for dictatorial control over the Legislative and Judicial Branches.
Asserting the President's hands-on authority over all the departments and agencies of the Executive Branch is different from reaching for dictatorial control over the Legislative and Judicial Branches.
Unless, of course, the party he heads already controls them. Note also that the Executive Branch appoints judges. It's no coincidence that the "Republican" Party allowed federal judgeships to go unfilled until they could take control and stuff the vacant positions with political hacks. Tuberville hopes to accomplish the same with the military.
You know very well that this isn't just about Trump and never has been. It's about an authoritarian Christian nationalist cult of which he is the current head. They already control much of the judiciary and very nearly control the legislative branch. They also control enough state governments to simply negate any election results they don't like. They are publicly saying as much.
And, as we have seen, if all else fails they will attempt a violent overthrow of the government. They almost succeeded in 2021, as you may or may not recall.
The Executive Branch has far too much power as it is, but at least those employed in those agencies are actual professionals who get and hold their jobs based on their professional qualifications. Replacing them all with political toadies is what they do in dictatorships. Stalin did it. Hitler did it. Mao did it. Roman Emperors did it. Every king, dictator, and autocrat throughout history has done it.
If you knew anything at all about history, you'd realize how very much the right wing vision for America resembles Soviet Russia. Or the Roman Empire. Or any of the pre-Enlightenment monarchies in Europe. Or any of the many other racial and religious autocracies that have come and gone in human history over the past several thousand years.
Republican democracy is relatively new on the historical front. It could vanish both here and in Europe. We could, if we allow ourselves to become complacent (clearly your goal here), allow the forces of reaction to negate not only the entire 20th century but everything back to the Divine Right of Kings—which is what "Christian Nationalism" amounts to, in case you haven't noticed. Which would, I guess, be a good fit for an economy that is becoming increasingly feudal.
^^^^THIS!^^^^ TFG has an authoritarian/bully personality, but he is only a figurehead to be manipulated by the forces only now slowly coming out of the shadows. Oh, they were always there with their influence, but seems to have caught fire with a larger receptive population. All about money and power at the expense of the common good.
Hopefully you would be satisfied with an adjective like "anti-democratic" or "autocratic" instead of "dictatorial"? The thrust of all of these descriptors inherently goes to one’s intentional disregard of the carefully conceived constitutional balance of powers among executive, legislative and judicial branches of federal government (designed to stop or at least curb the effort of one branch to subsume the powers of the other two). More simply stated, Trump indisputably disdains the balance of powers, the rule of law, free and fair elections and the unfettered right to vote. None of autocratic Trump, anti-democratic DeSantis or preening sycophant and Trump ‘24 VP hopeful Greene are fit for any elected office the oath of which demands the loyalty of the office holder to uphold these essential precepts of our democratic Republic.
I suspect that you did not read HCR's latest letter carefully. She packaged together snippets from conservative ideologues with accusatory summaries from opposing news media to create a toxic blend of propaganda.
Asserting the President's hands-on authority over all the departments and agencies of the Executive Branch (that is, the "Unitary Executive theory of constitutional interpretation, which I do NOT support) is different from reaching for dictatorial control over the Legislative and Judicial Branches.
Virginia, quite a number of subscribers, perhaps, some unfamiliar with this nasty, negative, anti-democracy character continue to parry with him. They fuel his presence. This unfortunately takes up a great deal of space on the forum. If you scroll up and down you'll see what I mean. There is no winning with this distraction. Cheers!
What an obnoxious way to avoid the content of what I was saying.
I suspect that you did not read HCR's latest letter carefully. She packaged together snippets from conservative ideologues with accusatory summaries from opposing news media to create a toxic blend of propaganda.
Asserting the President's hands-on authority over all the departments and agencies of the Executive Branch (that is, the "Unitary Executive theory of constitutional interpretation, which I do NOT support) is different from reaching for dictatorial control over the Legislative and Judicial Branches.
Wow. John Sméagol really crawled from his cave under the Misty Mountains in a bad mood today… You literally posted the same reply 21 times. Gollum, gollum…
Dutch Mike, you and many others have been avoiding any engagement with my basic point:
Asserting the President's hands-on authority over all the departments and agencies of the Executive Branch (that is, the "Unitary Executive" theory of constitutional interpretation, which I do NOT support) is different from reaching for dictatorial control over the Legislative and Judicial Branches.
That's quite simple. Have you ever considered the _way_ you carry your message? I mean, asking rhetorical questions and simply posting the same replies over and over in every conversation isn't going to help. That's not engagement, that's spamming.
And if you want engagement, how does Trump's idea of purging all intelligence agencies and stacking them with his loyalists NOT fit in the scheme for gaining dictatorial control?
I will be the first to admit that I don't know all the legal ramifications of unitary executive theory. But there are two things that make me deeply cynical of this "project 2025". One - it's whole purpose is to undo what they claim liberals have done to our government. To reorganize such that conservative policy can be implemented without obstruction. That is clearly stated in the goals. One has to ask, would such re-organization be recommended for a Democratic administration? Answer - NO! So this change would be meant to stamp out progressivism for good. Regardless of the will of the people. That should be a non-starter. Two - the intent is to implement this with a Republican president, and they are thinking twice impeached and indicted Trump. That is the guy would can take such a thing and turn it into what HCR states as "establishing a dictatorship". I have no doubt at all that what he would do (or try to do) would have parallels with Mussolini or Hitler. And that should be a non-starter.
I am going to imagine a hypocritical, self-serving Republican rebuttal to your post. It goes like this:
"Progressive Democrats have been corrupted and perverted by bucket-loads of filthy money from that alien zillionaire George Soros, and we need to do everything we can to rid the federal government of the Soros stench."
Here's a conservative source saying that "George Soros has supported, advocated and bankrolled everything rotten, subversive, destructive, hateful and evil."
These fascists are in the minority.We must fight them tooth and nail.The 2024 election is a referendum on whether we continue down the road of democracy or succumb to fascism.I am hoping that those who know help others to know or outnumber the authoritarian minority.
From The American Prospect: "The Times report is characteristically stuffy about what is going on here. Yet the reporters got enough Trump cronies on the record to make the stakes abundantly clear. The plan is called Project 2025—a transition project started long in advance this time, with the explicit purpose of making the entire government beholden to Trump’s every whim. “There is no way to make the existing structure function in a conservative manner. It’s not enough to get the personnel right. What’s necessary is a complete system overhaul,” said McEntee. “What we’re trying to do is identify the pockets of independence and seize them,” said Trump’s former Office of Management chief Russell T. Vought. Institutional support comes from the Heritage Foundation; its president Kevin D. Roberts said: “The notion of independent federal agencies or federal employees who don’t answer to the president violates the very foundation of our democratic republic.”"
Traditional strategy of "run it up a flag pole and see who votes for (buys) it." By gum, enough running or currently elected Republicans who are looking to their personal public service careers see real benefits of this restart. Darn, let's get behind this. We can't loses? Forget about another generation as if we do it right our tribe members will do just fine. Now. How do we reframe or rename public good, freedom, entitlements, ill-gotten gains, former civil servants, evil, sin, justice, etc. Woke works. Socialism has a bad task. Public service really is getting your share without working. A good employee is one who we can get rid of for any reason. An educated American is one who is loyal to our God and the causes of the leaders party.
As before, TFG and compatriots are saying the quiet parts out loud. We need to believe them and behave accordingly. We need to point out how Biden’s administration is embracing Eisenhower’s Republican ideals—for example, using the federal government to accomplish needed infrastructure that the individual states cannot afford and taking advantage of economies of scale. We need to get nonvoters to realize how Biden administration policies have made their lives, and those of their grandchildren, better. It’s not a time to become paralyzed by fear; the Ukrainians have shown us how to fight for democracy.
Marlene, I think it’s not so much that the democrats aren’t messaging loud and clear, it’s more that our major media outlets such as the New York Times, Washington Post, CNN etc aren’t calling ducks, ducks, even when they are quacking their fool heads off. And by ducks, I mean fascists. I don’t know if it’s for clickbait, timidity, fear of lawsuits, agreement, or what, but the reluctance of the media to call lies what they are is beyond dangerous at this point. It’s almost as if they learned nothing from 2016. The media trying to present both sides equally and fairly when one side has lost their minds is dangerous. If we lose our democracy, the media will have been complicit. Without that complicity, these plans wouldn’t work. Just as an example, right AFTER writing the article Heather cites, Maggie Haberman was on Twitter talking about how “the person who is leading the GOP polls by a wide mile has a pretty robust policy page and a lot of policy to point to in office.” Wtf?
Beyond that, there is likewise a lack of trumpeting the enormous successes of this administration from the rooftops, because quiet competence just doesn’t sell advertising - it’s not flashy and doesn’t inspire the same emotional responses from readers and watchers that anger and fear do. Those emotional responses are what advertisers live for.
Let’s be honest, without Dr. Richardson, would we be as aware of those successes as we are?
Chump is a money-machine for MSM. Do not look for that to end ever. If Biden’s message needs to get out, it’s we who need to do the shouting, writing, phoning, coffee-klatching, letter-to-the-editors, and door knocking about it. We are the messengers. “It’s Working!” Never makes as much money for MSM as manufactured-soap-opera-drama doused in racism-sauce.
Well said. I'm a fairly recent convert myself, although people deep in Republican land have been telling me about her since the dark days of TFG's reign. I love that HCR celebrates journalists who do report accurately and urgently.
The New York Times, Washington Post, VOX, The New Yorker, The Atlantic, Politico...the papers and magazines that I read, KR, call a spade a spade, a duck a duck, and an autocrat an autocrat and a Democrat a Democrat.
Good morning, Marlene! The sky looks lousy and the air did not breath well, when I stuck my head out the window. I'm going to check the air quality index before going outside. The wildfires in Canada are strongly ablaze. This earth, including the oceans, is getting hotter and hotter. So, what are the 'leaders' around the world doing about it? We've have got to put the HEAT on them!
Marlene, I contributed to ProPublica several months ago and began subscribing at that time. Its mission follows, along with a link, which will inform interested subscribers. I hope that there are many of you.
'The Mission'
'To expose abuses of power and betrayals of the public trust by government, business, and other institutions, using the moral force of investigative journalism to spur reform through the sustained spotlighting of wrongdoing.'
'ProPublica is an independent, nonprofit newsroom that produces investigative journalism with moral force. We dig deep into important issues, shining a light on abuses of power and betrayals of public trust — and we stick with those issues as long as it takes to hold power to account.'
'With a team of more than 100 dedicated journalists, ProPublica covers a range of topics including government and politics, business, criminal justice, the environment, education, health care, immigration, and technology. We focus on stories with the potential to spur real-world impact. Among other positive changes, our reporting has contributed to the passage of new laws; reversals of harmful policies and practices; and accountability for leaders at local, state and national levels.'
'Investigative journalism requires a great deal of time and resources, and many newsrooms can no longer afford to take on this kind of deep-dive reporting. As a nonprofit, ProPublica’s work is powered primarily through donations. The vast bulk of the money we spend goes directly into world-class, award-winning journalism. We are committed to uncovering the truth, no matter how long it takes or how much it costs, and we practice transparent financial reporting so donors know how their dollars are spent.'
'ProPublica was founded in 2007-2008 with the belief that investigative journalism is critical to our democracy. Our staff remains dedicated to carrying forward the important work of exposing corruption, informing the public about complex issues, and using the power of investigative journalism to spur reform.' Link to more information is below.
Professor Richardson is doing an excellent job of getting the word out. Democrats are fortunate to have her on our side. It takes courage to write about the authoritarians seeking to dismantle our democracy.
True. Well then, let's bombard our senators and congress-people with today's column — actually, those of both parties; and those of us who can, advertise it. The fact of a GOP-supported plan to create a dictatorship, to dismantle our democracy, must become our rallying cry, publicly ubiquitous and unavoidable; the substance of a question posed to every Republican candidate. Mass-send it to all we know — friend-risky as that may be, it pales compared to John Lewis's courage, fortitude and his final request that we "Get in good trouble, necessary trouble, and redeem the soul of America."
She doesn't need them. And she is not the only one writing about these issues. There is, beyond our silo if we bother to look, a massive resistance building.
Yes, so happy found HCR and keeps me more informed along with Thom Hartmann, however, they are usually singing to the choir but so glad I am part of their choir. They need to get national attention but billionaire press won't allow it. Where are the millionaire dems???????????????????????//
Democrats, and we all need to focus. That, I think, is what liberal, non-dictatorial leadership does. The advantage of dictatorship is only one voice counts. That also the deal-breaker. I think democratic leadership, minor and local or major and national, even international, has to do which clarifying priorities, around which support may or may not gather. Despotism is the one ring to rule them all and must be defeated.
While they don’t get the press the Republican clown show does, I don’t agree they are completely lacking. I’m seeing more Democratic messaging than ever before.
They are squeaking through in this awful destructive climate. Clearly, we have people like Dan Goldman and Eric Swalwell plus Stacy Plaskett and most-loved, Jamie Raskin, who speak out. But that’s not enough. It’s up to us to push them to be brave and courageous and LOUD.
Two things I can’t comprehend. One, knowing what could be in store for us, why are moderate Republicans in office keeping silent?
Of course, they want to keep their jobs, but what about losing our democracy in favor of, perhaps, authoritarian rule? Are none of them
loyal patriots?
The other is: why are Biden’s poll numbers so low? He is doing a fantastic job under very difficult circumstances. He isn’t a seeker of the limelight, which is a plus. His speeches are impressive, touching on every current point of interest with clarity and forcefulness, as well as emotion. I was especially impressed with his recent speeches in Europe.
IMHO polling is problematic these days….the way opinions are collected is not necessarily representative of the population. Telephone polls have a hard time maybe due to cell/vs “home” phones & caller ID (are the pollsters clearly identifying themselves as such in the caller ID?). I have, for awhile now, participated in online opinion gathering (YouGov), sometimes political/policy related, but most is product/entertainment/etc. So, is hard to say polls are reliable, and yet they are touted on the MSM w/o giving specifics of the poll (who/where/how many/etc).
We could do a much better job of bringing this to a broader population. Unfortunately the MSM ownership is afraid of losing viewers. I don't watch any "network" TV news. So I would appreciate it if someone could report as to whether today's story has made it there.
Its a double edged sword. Whatever the Dems say, is used against them and sadly medias sound clips are harmful, twisted, misunderstood, etc. I deeply hope that “walking the walk”, creating all the infrastructure and programs that elevate and promote diversity, opportunity, civil liberties and rights in education, wages, health, voting etc. IMPACTS the American citizens to vote blue. This Heritage Society, with 2025 is very sick. The concept of a Christian Patriarchal society is frightening. And by the way... Israel is not too far behind with what Netanyahu is doing.
Following Türkiye’s Erdogan & Hungary’s Orban playbook. Scary and, so far, lauded by many (most?) of those on the farther-right in this country. Both of those countries moving to the far-right.
Mary Hardt says that "the Ukrainians have shown us how to fight for democracy." This would appear to be an Orwellian hallucination. Ukraine is currently being run by a corrupt, oppressive anti-democratic right-wing thug regime. I expanded on my point of view and shared some sources here:
"Five years after the Maidan uprising, anti-Semitism and fascist-inflected ultranationalism are rampant.
"Today, increasing reports of far-right violence, ultranationalism, and erosion of basic freedoms are giving the lie to the West’s initial euphoria. There are neo-Nazi pogroms against the Roma, rampant attacks on feminists and LGBT groups, book bans, and state-sponsored glorification of Nazi collaborators.
"These stories of Ukraine’s dark nationalism aren’t coming out of Moscow; they’re being filed by Western media, including US-funded Radio Free Europe (RFE); Jewish organizations such as the World Jewish Congress and the Simon Wiesenthal Center; and watchdogs like Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch, and Freedom House, which issued a joint report warning that Kiev is losing the monopoly on the use of force in the country as far-right gangs operate with impunity.
"Five years after Maidan, the beacon of democracy is looking more like a torchlight march...."
I suppose if our country was invaded as the Ukraine has been you would just surrender. You seem like a peace in our time type of person. If the Ukranian government was made up of right wing thugs as you claim then the Republican party would be supporting them and Tucker Carlson would be spouting how wonderful they are.
“What we’re trying to do is identify the pockets of independence and seize them,” said Russell T. Vought, who ran Trump’s Office of Management and Budget and who now advises the right-wing House Freedom Caucus. They envision a “president” who cannot be checked by the Congress or the courts.
" Accustomed to trample on the rights of those around you, you have lost the genius of your own independence, and become the fit subjects of the first cunning tyrant who rises". - Lincoln
“What we’re trying to do is identify the pockets of independence and seize them,” said Russell T. Vought, who ran Trump’s Office of Management and Budget and who now advises the right-wing House Freedom Caucus. They envision a “president” who cannot be checked by the Congress or the courts.
If this planned Project 2025 goes through, the US will no longer be a government of, by, or for the people; no freedom or independence, and certainly no transparency.
But you have all been propagandized about Socialism since God knows when? Any murmurings from the leftist squad in the Democratic party are squashed by the Dems. Bernie was trying to move further to the left BUT what happened? You chose the wrong route.
Can we stop pussyfooting? Please. The Republican Party, and all organizations and individuals who enable Trumpism, are part of an openly fascist terror organization. The time to shut them down is NOW.
Well, the leader of the American fascist movement could easily be put in jail, seeing as how he's been charged with dozens of felonies. But noooooooo......
I don't believe Garland had plans to do anything until the January 6 committee forced his hand and then we were 2 years out. Jack Smith is doing a great job but he is going to run into a timing issue.
It could have/should have been done at the time of arrest. Suspects who are a danger to society, like trump, aren't generally free pending trial. However, it won't happen now, of course.
The wheels of justice grind exceeding slow, but they grind exceeding fine. Still having faith in the justice system: the DOJ (Jack Smith) and Fani Willis are well aware that the charges against T**** cannot be ignored, and I beilieve they will carry out their duties.
I read some pages of that over 900 pages manifesto before I had to stop. It nauseated me. It’s all about how white people should seize the day in 2025. Bring back Christian values, nuclear families, women stay at home to cook, clean, have kids, etc. I looked at the list of people who helped put this “project” together. It’s pretty alarming to discover their desire to create their perfect little world, under their authority, under their rules. See, this is why I became sick to my stomach.
How about we stop using the word "Christian" and use "religious" instead? Sorry if I've already said this - it seems to have disappeared. I'm cooking a meal at the same time and may not have pushed "Post" because I ran toward the smell of onions about to burn..
There are sincerely religious people who are not trying to impost their beliefs on others. The constitution provides for freedom of religion, and that is the big reason for separation of state and religion: to prevent any church from imposing their beliefs on everyone else. The word "zeolot" can apply to any rabid belief system. In this case rabid authoritarian capitalists masquerading as a religious group and using the valid beliefs of some people as cover. It is an insult to sincerely religious people to get that mixed up. To be blunt about it, it's another form of bigotry. I'm sorry to have to put it that way, but this confounding of terms is not contributing to clarifying anything.
Yum! And thank you! There is NOTHING of Christ in their so-called “Christian” values. Christ called on his followers to love one another. No Christ there. No love there.
I appreciate your abhorrence that they use the word "Christian" in their manifesto. For those of us sitting outside the finer delineations of "Christianity" as commonly known, there is no difference. I see churches that do good works. I also see churches that pray for the faggots to die. I see churches that feed and nourish the poor. I also see churches that have ostentatious decoration and close their doors to anyone "different". All are labeled as "Christian" churches.
I get that there is nothing "Christ-like" in the concept of Christian Nationalism. I also see that they use their belief in Christ to justify their doings. It is hard not to view all Christians in the light of their beliefs.
I have a parallel in my life... I have friends and a family member who believe that ACAB* and we should absolutely get rid of law enforcement as it exists. The family member acknowledges that I was never in that category of law enforcement officer, and that I did bring fairness, equity, and compassion to my work. He argues that since I continued to work in that environment, and even though as a trainer in several disciplines (teaching patrol skills and use of force instruction among them) I was still "within a corrupt system."
Do I think that ACAB? No. In fact, I believe that many cops (at least here on the left coast) are good, honest, and ethical people. Not all of them, but certainly some of them. The problem is that we allow them (and their agencies, frankly) to flourish tips the scale towards the ACAB scale. That is hard to argue with.
*ACAB = All Cops Are (Bad or Bastards, depending on perspective).
I just can't bring myself to malign entire groups of people based on the actions of some. It doesn't matter who the groups are.
I was raised in the Lutheran church, and I have a lesbian daughter and a trans sister, and two of my dearest pals are a lesbian couple who've been together longer than most straight couples.
I hate the idea that these monsters have hijacked the term "Christian", but this was their intent since the 20s, at least. See the original documentary from the History Channel (when it still WAS history) about how the KKK intentionally entwined itself with the southern church. It's pretty eye-opening.
Anyway, the tl;dr is that many things have been hijacked by ugly people spreading ugly ideas. Norse history and also Christianity come to mind.
Anne-Louise, the description of "Christian" or "religious" is very disturbing to me....better "mindless followers" devoid of any true faith...having it replaced by AUTHORITARIANISM....all moving this country straight to hell!!! This is what happens when humans refuse to think for themselves.
Anyone should be able to observe that the Republican Party HAS LOST ITS WAY or IS REVEALING IT'S TRUE COLORS. The gods they worship are POWER, MONEY, and CONTROL. Do they care about the disruption of our country or the world....NO!!! Do they care about "BUILDING BACK anything BETTER? NOOOOOOO!
We can no longer be respected by the world if our people are not able to discern the destruction of our democracy. Already President Biden has been asked by our allies if we can be trusted ....what might happen if he is no longer President? It is not only America but the world that will be affected if authoritarianism wins.
Emily, I understand what you and other commenters are getting at regarding painting a group with a big-brush-definition. My only observation on this is that THEY THEMSELVES call it that way….have said they are hoping to establish a White Christian Nationalists country…. IMHO down through the ages (AC), the term “Christian” has been co-opted and bent & mangled to fit a wholly unsuited philosophies/actions. Maybe they should be called “Xhristian’s” instead, because they cross-X-out the teachings the man himself shared & died for.
Barbara, I am a person of faith because Christ "spoke to my heart" and the first time....I said, " No! are you kidding me......I have just approached the age and have the opportunity to be my most rebellious....."(now Barbara, as the old hymn states, THIS is My story...) Later on in my rebellion, He came to me again through a Christian group who were at my college campus sharing music and testimonies. My friends kept encouraging me to attend....finally on their last evening at the amphitheater on my college campus, I could not say "No" ....it was the personal testimonies that overcame me....and in the old fashioned way Christians refer to this experience is that "I surrendered my life to Christ and spiritually, I received the Holy Spirit." The next morning I found a Bible in the
grass. The words written in the front were:"I was given this Bible, now I am giving it to you...." Well, God does take care of His young lambs.....
Barbara, I told my mom....she said "Don't tell anyone!" I went to the church beside the college I attended. The Paster was standing on the steps...I thought, I can worship here! BUT when I told the Pastor I had just received
Christ....instead of offering a class or making an encouraging comment he said, "you have pretty eyes!!!!" What a sad and terrible thing for me to hear....I was numb.....these responses were NOT anything like I was expecting or what I needed . So my relationship with Christ was filled with lonliness and many ups and downs.....but through all of my wrong choices and struggles, my faith did not leave me and years later I was able to receive great teaching from
Christians who were "true and faithful and the most giving and caring humanbeings I will ever know." So Barbara...not everyone is a Christian who says that they are...even if they attend church and serve on every committee and vote for every Republican and teach Sunday School. And it is not my responsibility to judge but it is my responsibility to keep trudging on "until I am truly home".And I am far from perfect but you know only "sinners" can be saved so I am still fighting that battle on this earth...I just have the power of a loving, encouraging and forgiving with God as my strength and by my side. That is my story and I'm sticking to it!!
As Christians....as Americans of faith OR AMERICANS OF NO FAITH>>>OR OF DIFFERENT FAITHS.....we must stand for what we believe to be true. We must be wise and discerning or our hearts and minds will be captured and used by persons pretending they are something or someone they are not!!! I know what that is like too...I was in a cult for several years......well yes, I made a bad choice and chose to accept wrong teaching but I saw individuals change and stop destructive habits. I saw them accept the wheelchair bound and place them in important positions of service....I saw them take people off the streets and give them clothes and responsibility and even teeth which they had lost from having no one to help or encourage them. This WAS a CULT. I was fortunate enough to find this kind of joy and love in giving and in friendships in a genuine church family once...not in all churches unfortunately.
So Barbara....I get the Christian labeling problem. Watch for those who live their faith. A person's life will prove it. I have personally become more and more observant....as I search for love in action....the kind that doesn't need praise.
People who are like the One who gave up His life for us ....Who gave His blood to cover sins we could never be completely free of.....that kind of God...that kind of Savior.
Yes. They want to return to the 1950s. White women in their shining new kitchens, children at their skirts, while Black women clean their houses, and Black men tend their yards.
J. Nol, these men are a part of a fantasy world. Women were fighting during WW1 and WW2. Women were working in factories building ammunitions, etc. Women were working as nurses and reporters. Women were doing the farming while their husbands and sons were fighting wars....some came home....some did not.
White women and all women and men of color have done their part for this country since its inception.
I think you are comparing real life to TV programs or movies.
After WWII, women who had formerly been working in factories and as auxiliary personnel in the war effort were all told to go back to their kitchens, so that the men could go back to work. Government policies supported white men going to work, buying houses through cheap mortgages, while denying the same to black men and women. It was no accident that the TV shows depicted the "ideal nuclear family" since it reflected those policies. During the 50s consumerism started to reign, encouraging the gender dichotomy for white people, while black people could usually only find work involving supporting those white families. See "The Help". which was set in the 60s, but gives an idea of what black people were up against. I also recommend Mad Men as a good depiction of that time and beyond.
I think J Nol is describing the fever dream of many MAGAs - their rosy view of a world where white men ruled and women+POC were subservient. The goals of the GOP are not a return to history as it was (although the description certainly did apply to many (my educated, White, middle class family included) but a world they imagine as Nirvana.
The part about women staying home seems to assume that it is still possible to raise a family on one income. Men would somehow need to be paid much better than most of them are these days. Ask them how that would work in practical terms. And if women did not work outside the home, would there be enough men to fill all the jobs? Ask about the practicalities.
900 pages. Wow, that’s a lot of pages. I guess we are supposed to be impressed by nonsense if it runs to 900 pages. Notwithstanding the evil of it.
Exactly. And Rachel Maddow led with the story of the nineteen attorneys general who have sent a letter to Biden asking to obtain the medical records of their residents who have traveled out of state to obtain reproductive health care that is banned in their state. They claim they have the authority to get those private records: it's apparently already been done to those who attended Vanderbilt University - where records were given up with no warning to those patients. We are well on our way to a fascist, totalitarian, "Christian" autocracy. I fear for my grandchildren.
I have been struck by these stories on disclosures of health records on several major media outlets (CBS, NBC, PBS) without a single mention of HIPAA (Healthcare Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) under which aegis anyone in healthcare has had to function! There have been dire consequences built right into the major electronic note systems (e.g.- EPIC) for reporting anyone even looking at patient medical records without formally being on the care team for that patient. Violating HIPAA has been a grounds for loss of one's medical license.
I’ve only heard about this on various podcasts but I was struck by the apparent lack of even a discussion by Vanderbilt with their attorneys about this...where was their outrage?! Where was their concern for the patients? I don’t get it
John M, thank you! I’ve been a health information management professional for 43 years, and while watching Maddow Monday night I kept asking the TV, “but what about HIPAA?!” HIPAA privacy rules have bound us in the medical world since 1996. If I recall correctly, though, HIPAA has some exclusions for law enforcement purposes. I never paid attention to that before because I thought I didn’t live in a police state. Foolish of me, as I’m a Floridian, where the rental car got on the toll road of autocracy a while ago. (Just trying to update the metaphor a little from the train.)
The US Department of Health and Human Services is evaluating a proposed rule that would prevent states from obtaining private health information “for a criminal, civil, or administrative investigation into or proceeding against any person in connection with seeking, obtaining, providing, or facilitating reproductive health care … outside of the state where the investigation or proceeding is authorized” and “is lawful in the state where it is provided.”
Republican Attorneys General are trying to stop AG Becerra from implementing the rule. Alan Unell, from whom this action comes, has more in his newsletter. Let’s read his short explainer and then fight back.
How? Let’s send an email to Secretary Becerra at xavier.becerra@hhs.gov and say something like the below:”
SADLEY Nothing is SECURE ! ANYMORE ! In 1970, The Military Machine, Gave Us, Our new Military I D Numbers : IT !,, WAS My SOCIAL SECURETY NUMBER ! ALL ! the CATS !, are OUTTA The BAG !, from That POINT, FORWARD !!
Well written, Heather! It’s all damn scary. But what will an authoritarian President Trump do to destroy the world order while he is busy destroying American democracy? Americans need to understand that if Trump gets in office, WW3 will not be far behind. Napoleon had his Waterloo, but democracy will never recover if Trump is re-elected. The stakes and weapons are far more destructive.
The potential for unprecedented misery, perhaps extinction, is certainly there. In some ways it's good that Trump is such an opportunist; if he gets the power, he will want to protect his own behind, his toys and his adoring chorus, so he may try to avoid compete disaster. But he is also such a fool.
J L Graham, I have concluded that calling tfg a “fool” is misleading. In 2015, when he first descended the golden escalator in all that reality-tv-hype, I, too, called him a “fool”. I was absolutely convinced he would be squashed by the American Public’s expectations of presidential candidates. When he revealed himself to be an opportunist shapeshifter, I no longer called him a “fool”. Some people are brilliant physicists, novelists, chefs, etc. tfg is brilliant at being a narsissist. And being a brilliant narsissist, you are the perfect tool for nefarious controlling powers. He also has torch-lighted the authoritarian path for other tools with less natural narsissistic tendencies. He’s given them a roadmap, a model, and courage to return us to the robber-baron past, with all its racist, workers-are-serfs, misogynistic, faux-christian-values. We should be horribly alarmed. We should dislike him. We should demand the dissolution of his political/cultural control. He is many things, but “fool” is not doing it for me anymore.
It is often noted by psychologists that those with antisocial personality disorder (sociopaths) are often perceived as "charismatic" by many. My guess is that there is no one like a "Mr. Hyde" to know the buttons to push to bring out the "Mr. Hyde" in human nature. We are all self-serving, self-protective of necessity, but most aim to temper our selfishness with empathy into "enlightened self-interest", some facing death to prevent harm to others. I am just speculating here, but I think that those who are taught from birth that they are inherently better than others (and believe it) have limited capacity for empathy. The story of America is a confluence of many differing themes, but among those are slavery and genocide. Similar stories can be found around the globe.
So yes, Trump is brilliant as a con man, and has been as long as I have been aware of him; celebrated by the media since he conned others into renovating NYC's Wollman skating rink without pay, and then hogged all the credit for the achievement. Trump, like Reagan, has been expert at totally playing the media, and when accused of wrongdoing, just brazening it out. He is also a puerile fool, and that has made him somewhat less dangerous than a smoother criminal. His tantrums are gifts to those seeking his prosecution, and may yet wear down his welcome in the court of public opinion. That said, be remains dangerous, but watch out of the emergence of more cunning tyrants.
My point above is that Trump is an opportunist and not a fanatic, and probably would not deliberately destroy the world given power to do so, but he is also clumsy enough to start WWIII, which would likely wipe out his "kingdom", without really meaning to.
Yes, JL, those “cunning tyrants”—likely backed by big dark money interests—waiting in the shadows for the right moment to step into power. If they are at all charismatic and sing the dog-whistle tunes, they may become the new pied-piper to follow to the new “promised land”. Sigh, re-reading what I wrote sounds like a conspiracy theory; I do attempt to vet issues like “dark money sources” and far-right ideologies, etc., via trusted, responsible sources but it all sounds so crazy, I sometimes wonder. No surprise some folks just check-out from all the madness!
Agreed. And you remind me that one of the founding impulses of our country was monied, self-interest. The founding “fathers” certainly wanted to stand equal to the king. But they did not necessarily approve of including “every man”, and especially NOT women. Not when you look at the original constitution. Those impulses are ever ripe, and once again being harvested to leverage the duplicity, but not the spirit of the constitution.
It seems to me that the founders had a lot of liberating ideas, but were woefully selective in how they applied them. Yet I think that the theoretical underpinnings of our Constitution and governmental infrastructure have proved for the most part to be invested by successive generations with a push toward broader liberation, a trend that the current crop of MAGA justices are trying to claw back. Politics is fundamentally about whose will prevails, and some always want to lord it over others, as you will see in the average schoolyard; but that gets ugly fast. We as a society have an interest in regulating harmful impacts of irresponsible behaviors upon others, as well as flat out predation, but not to mess with other's different yet harmless pursuits of happiness.
Very well put, J L Graham. Time and experience has given us an interesting lens to view the actions of the founders. Do you feel like the gop are believing they’re imminently close to achieving their decades long efforts to destroy the New Deal/Great Society changes, that the “normal” gop are just holding on during the last bumpy bit of the ride? (And believe that attaining the claw-back will come with no backlash?). So many GOP are radio-silent during the greatest political/cultural upheaval in decades. Their silence seems more than just “afraid of their violent base”. (Although, that may be an additional reason). I keep feeling like “Operation Hoodwink” is close to being fully realized, and each gop member doesn’t want to be the rat who snitches and jumps ship. They would face treason-level vigilante blowback from their fellow party supporters. But if it doesn’t come to pass, they just go on as normal because the Dems won’t effectively hold them accountable. (Sorry, J L for holding you hostage to this thread of pondering)
He will absolutely align with Putin! Against the American majority's wishes. I agree; more is at stake in 2024 than just us. Time for another Daisy Ad??
How many will continue to support these designs to reshape what has been a democracy into a dictatorship? That many of these anti-democratic thinkers and influencers are more and more openly stating their goals, even giving interviews, is terrifying. Using tropes to anger,and incite hatred and distrust, they can motivate many to support their plans. All the good news about Biden's achievements may be too easily overshadowed by this bilious hatred, this desire for a white, racist society that ironically will have not a scintilla of Christianity in it.
I see it not as apathy or complacency but fear. Change is happening @ an accelerating rating, the ground is moving so fast. Christian Nationalism dogma is offering a life raft of certainty & anything counter to their beliefs threatens to punch holes in that raft.
Carole, add to that the existential fear facing humankind (and the species and ecosystems we share the Earth with) and unless it galvanizes folks to act & to the polls to vote, it might just dispirit them into an “it won’t matter” apathetic mindset. Yes, we squabble politics, memes and cultural issues while we do not attend—post haste, all hands on deck, 4-alarm-code-red—to the glaring emergency facing us. I hope the young come out in droves to slap down (metaphorically) the deniers/resisters/authoritarians. Fingers crossed. I know I will.
Most R extremist I know are deniers of climate change. Especially evangelist . More clinging to the life raft of their belief system & god will fix it or the rapture is coming .
This is a harsh comment (and I don’t really mean it, but the snarky part of my brain is writing it anyway): I have read about those that believe in the end-times as a god-related punishment & those true believers will “raptured” and taken up to, what, heaven? Well, perhaps if THEY who believe this would offer themselves up to depart in lieu of others who will perish due to human inaction on the climate crisis then we could reduce the human load on the Earth and spare the (mostly poor) others. Question is, how many of those folks who believe this are there? I hazard it is a small, but loud, minority.
Perhaps apathy is reinforced by the feeling that the christian nationalists offer a not too different future for apathetic white people. Do they really care if things are fair for others? Their friends and family are saying “No”. Why should they go against the flow of their social circle. That takes effort and courage. We scream that things will get really bad for everyone. But they see the vision of good white schools, clean white swimming pools, safe, white neighborhoods, white butts in white church pews as comforting. Why would they want to ask, “But what about all the others?”
Or are mentally trapped by injunctions against raising fundamental questions. Racism and slavery, the subjugation of women in the society, and the "pathology" of being gay was one largely considered "normal", the way of things, even in my lifetime. Not that those things are gone, but diminished over all and and now more widely seen as inimical to social justice. That took and continues to require a protracted and intense focus on the disconnect between what we hypothetically like to think is justice and how that perception is warped by hubris, prejudice, and untempered self-interest.
Millions of Americans (74 million to be exact) are viewing what the Professor has reported on today as what they so desperately want, not as something that will destroy our country.
"Big Lies" are far more virulent than most seem to appreciate. Even many Republicans were troubled by Nixon's behavior, which now is dwarfed by the lies and treachery of the whole Republican party. We seem to have let our guard down.
JL, it just occurred to me that the current iteration of Republicans remind me of sheep or lemmings (group think), while the Dems remind me of individuals who CHOOSE align with each other (and challenge each other too) as a collective, not a herd.
I think the "GOP" has become a full fledged cult. I think we all are vulnerable to a bit of cult dynamics in our group behaviors, but a an all-consuming cult deliberately attacks and blocks any error-checking, and makes membership contingent on full acceptance of an ideology that might easily be preposterous and/or ethically vile.
Interesting to me how, at least observing from the outside, Republicans fall in line w/o question (or they keep their questions to themselves, or quietly among themselves in back rooms) to support the party line du jour. To me, that’s the sometime frustrating reality of many (most?) Dems….we question and prod our own positions….slows things down, sure, but think it delivers better results in the long run. Just a thought….
Carmen, the probability that they will not only continue to support these designs, but will actively seek them out is high. The MAGAts in my world of retired cops believe with all their hearts that everything that this "takeover" that HCR reports on is what is going on with the Biden administration right now.. Biden is the one who is trying to consolidate power. Biden is the one who wants to weaponize agencies against them. As one of them told me once "everything you believe about us, we believe about you."
Of course the difference is that their is so much evidence that they are doing it and none that Biden is doing it. It's like a religion to them. It doesn't require proof.
This is the most astonishing thing to me! I remember having a discussion with a Republican co-worker in 2011, when I was still working, and he said something about Obama and the Democrats trying to do some crazy, power-grabbing stuff. I was flabbergasted, and said to him "We think the same thing about Republicans!". He was just as astonished as I am every time I'm brought up against this!
HOW IN TF did we manage to get to this place???? (rhetorical)
Karen ! It Seems that a lot, of Folks, DONT WANT To BELIEVE, that this is ALL, a PART ! , of GODS PLAN !! The PROOF, of HIS WORD ! Is on Our EARS, & IN OUR EYES ! DAYLEY ! MANKIND ! , PLEASE ! WAKE UP !!
It puzzles me why people think DeSantis is a buffoon. He is an effective Facist that has bulldozed the state of Florida in a very short period of time.
I read the NY Times story yesterday knowing full well this is the definitive gameplan for Trump and the Republican Party. It is not a pipe dream of the few crazy MAGA'S. This our future. They aren't kidding.
If by some miracle Biden wins this upcoming election and the Republicans are unsuccessful in slanting the outcome, we will only have 4 years of sanity.
Frankly, if we call what we are living now sanity, we really need to adjust our expectations. This constant baseball bat that is held over our heads by the GOP is really getting old.
We get caught up in our derision of those with whom we disagree (or know to be evil) and that derision keeps us from decerning their meaningful attributes and defeating their strategies. We fail in our derision to see the brilliance of their acts because we want goodness and honesty to be only held in common by people we consider intellegent or gifted. I thought him unbelievably stupid, when in fact he is remarkably cunning and believable to so many who follow flash and gilt. I think these derisions are the distractions in a grif of my creation; at least if measured by the amount of energy I give to proving him stupid, evil, bad, anti-American, a Fascist, dispecible.
Well said, Linda. Now that the quiet parts are being said aloud, maybe some action will be sparked. My warning is that their goals in Project 2025 are what they accuse the Biden administration of at every turn. Their sky is a different color.
Important and insightful. Thank you Heather. Pro-democracy members of Congress (provided they have voter support in the 2024 election cycle) should consider authoring, supporting, and passing comprehensive legislation geared toward the strengthening of voting rights, the elimination of gerrymandering, the expansion of SCOTUS, anti-corruption and insider trading initiatives, and the protection of federal pro-democracy institutions. While state governments pass a national popular vote compact to effectively render the electoral college a useless artifact of a racist history.
Ahhh that is "the trick" George, to swing popular opinion esp among "independents" to realize how serious a threat the GOP has become to a multi-ethnic, multi-devotional, tolerant of social diversities, supportive of broad economic support to needing individuals, not unlike the kind of support long since provided to other economic enterprises which have been used to create and maintain a wealth class. Everyone benefits, including if not especially the already-rich.
"Behind this initiative is “Project 2025,” a coalition of more than 65 right-wing organizations putting in place personnel and policies to recommend not just to Trump, but to any Republican who may win in 2024. Project 2025 is led by the Heritage Foundation, once considered a conservative think tank, that helped to lead the Reagan revolution."
I have some thoughts on what a response (counter-offensive) to Project 2025 might look like:
It should now be self-evident that our government is vulnerable to attack and/or control by a small minority of committed internal actors. Much of our vulnerability appears to flow directly from structural flaws in our 'rules of law.' Indeed, many maintain that at least some of those 'flaws' were created by the founders with the intention of facilitating control by a minority of elite, white, men.
It should also, by now, be self-evident that responding to the radical right and their weaponised 'issue' collaborators* with rational arguments is woefully ineffective and any success depends on the integrity of the voter registration and election systens which are also under attack.
We lack a clear voice to articulate the flaws and suggest corrections. And while there are a few gifted spokespersons among our legislators, they have, as a body, been unable to gain wide traction and gain commitment to a path forward. The fact that neither the legislative or executive branchs have made any progress against our horror-show Supreme Court is only one example of this void.
Unfortunately, the Federalist Society and Heritage Foundation provide examples of how this voice might function -- except the defense of democracy counter-offensive would be fueled by the power of truth and principle; not by capital which fuels Project 2025.
I sense a glimmer of such a voice in at least two places: the SistersInLaw (incuding Prof. Joyce Vance) and the small group of scholars and historians that meet with President Biden (incuding Prof. Richardson).
I have no idea how such a voice would form or function, but it seems clear that it is essential to have if we are ever to "herd the cats" making up the majority of Americans desparate to save democracy.
* Weaponised 'issue' collaborators are, for example: radical evangelicals, white nationalists, anti-semites, anti-vaxers, book burners, and anti-'wokesters' etc.
They are going all out to turn us into a Christian autocracy, opposition by most of the population be damned. People have become too complacent, too blinkered to any thought that - it could happen here. It’s described in a play written in the 30s and any concern was rejected by conservatives back in the days of Hitler
Not much authentically Christian about it. That's just part of the Orwellian camouflage they dress their aggressive plays for despotism with. "Freedom", justice, accountability, patriotism, family values, citizens united, etc. etc. are all just flimsy cover for some very ugly aspirations for total despotic control.
What I think happens is that people who go to certain churches all hear the same political messages and associate it with "Christianity." Mass propaganda via religion.
I have long thought that what is labeled "Christianity" is a vast grab bag of disparate beliefs, including introjects by tyrants claiming "divine" authority. Gandhi said that he admired our Christ but not our Christians. We wind up with those claiming to be "Christian" promoting diametrically opposed behaviors. Not to say that I find no wisdom in the Bible, but it seems to be something of a grab-bag as well, especially in the hands of those with supremacist agendas.
We really messed up as a country by not enforcing the separation of church and state early on. Every single church that decided to get involved in politics should have lost their tax exemption, but it would have been "tricky to do" and "hard to do", so it didn't happen.
I have been told directly by some "fundamentalists" ( a serious misnomer in my opinion) that they aim to convert the USA to a "theocracy". History has been there and done that, and it did not work out so well; thus US separation of church and state. That unholy union corrupts both the church and the state.
They holler about the Constitution, but don’t seem to have read or understood it….for cryin’ out loud, the separation of Church/State is in the first—the #1!!!!—amendment—even BEFORE their (misinterpreted IMHO) cherished 2nd amendment! Sigh.
They also officially proclaimed that the Jan 6th insurrection was "ordinary citizens engaged in legitimate political discourse" They don't interpret, they just lie.
With god on their side, they can do no wrong. Soldiers of the righteous! Non believers, (or the gullible) be damned! We all are familiar with the disgraceful programming, mind controlled victims and/or sex scandals, pyramid schemes of unabashed self enrichment rocking so many congregations and its leaders. Simply, when belief "trumps" reason, we all suffer at the hands of self serving charlatans. Hence the wisdom of early framers of the constitution.
Carole, I have posted on LFAA before links to the medical studies of the identifiable hardwired brainwave differences between those who lean conservative vs liberal (loosely defined). There are several out there on the ‘net (respected sources) if you choose to inquire…explains a lot & tells me the ‘twain ain’t gonna meet. Brings to mind Dylan lyrics “you were right from your side, I was right from mine”….don’t know if there is a solution to this, other than to agree to compromise (as if!).
My premise is where people are in their endorsements of Christian Nationalism/fascists. The reality of such a government would be a rude & sad awakening. To me it seems the right now is the safety of tell me what to do & what to think
It just takes your breath away, the blatant declaration of the authoritarian plan. Republicans won't fight this monster. We must.
“...increasing the president’s authority over every part of the federal government that now operates, by either law or tradition, with any measure of independence from political interference by the White House.”
Republicans have been stitching this monster together since at least Reagan. The "Monster" is just a manifestation of the absolute-power-obsessed modern "Republican" soul.
Like most criminals at the end of their careers of crime trump and his enablers have become reckless and most dangerous to themselves: think Tony Montana of “Scarface”. They destroy everything and everyone around them. Jack Smith and his team of brave prosecutors are coming for them with the full weight of the Federal Government behind them. It’s too bad we have to spend any energy at all battling against domestic enemies, but we must and are doing so. There is no question that trump will be considered the most vilified of all American presidents.
Aaron Burr was pretty self destructive and he left an infamous legacy for himself. But unlike the cowardly and insipid trump, Burr was a great patriot, fighter for our Revolution and brilliant lawyer who came within one vote in Congress of becoming our third president, instead of Thomas Jefferson. If you’re seeking a good summertime read, I recommend Gore Vidal’s, “Burr”; it’s a great exploration of old New York and the career of Burr, seen through the eyes of Burr’s loyal assistant. Funny, poignant, tragic...wonderful.
"think Tony Montana of “Scarface”". One can only hope KD. That this whole cancerous tumor of a political party will come crashing down.
Their whole enterprise now depends of sustaining illusion. That unquestionably dangerous, but has got to be a vulnerability, leaving them with so little to stand on.
Dear Heather,
Please tell us where you have discussed the downfall of the Whig Party or any other party. I know I saw it or heard it on your podcast, but don't know where to look for it now, and I would like to see it again. Thank you.
For sheer malice and treachery, I think Trump is in his own category.
Interesting perspective on Arron Burr, who was little more than a footnote in the history I learned.
Oh my stars, J L, you simply MUST hie yourself to TKTS and treat yourself to HAMILTON!
Loved Hamilton on Broadway. Plus I watched it in full on YouTube. It’s a lot to take in. The Hamilton cast also played at the White House for President Obama. https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-news/watch-hamilton-cast-perform-at-the-white-house-229328/
My sole bucket-list item, Irenie? Seeing Hamilton on Broadway in New York City. (“You could have been anywhere in the world tonight, and you came to New York City!)
Great link — thanks for including it. I subscribe to Disney Plus just to be able to watch the musical whenever I get the bug. Brilliant work. A truly inspired piece of American Art.
An historical day today…we move forward. The brave work is important as an accounting looms. We can rejoice. A great wrongdoing is being resolutely addressed. Our democracy is strong like granite, oak, the ocean and the stars that spangle our beautiful flag. God Bless America.
And let us not forget that if Trump is in Oval Office he will give more outrageous tax cuts to the filth rich basically “starving” the rest of the country. I ask, will the “middle class” survive? And what about those in low income situations – will they sink further down?
I think it was Venezuela that was one of the richest countries in the world until they went down the dictatorship road. We have to fight this beast. We have to fight it now and every single day going forward.
Exactly right., the point being tyrannical control of our lives for the benefit of the very few. Considering the role of the ultra-far right Evangelicals, they will invade and seize our public and daily life. We have a lot to defend here, and a great deal to lose.
Rather make permanent the temporary tax cuts set to expire.
Your question reminds me of passages in Stranger In a Strange Land, especially the scene where the lady hanging her washing out on the line hids our hero from the police. I don't want this to be our future.
Tax breaks, diminution of responsibilities, and subsidies for the ultra-rich, "Austerity", exploitation, and heavy-handed control for the serfs. Been that, done that, and from what I understand, it sucked. I think that under the fol-de-rol of Reaganomics, I think that was always the plan.
Linda, we must not let that happen
The Republicans do not have a soul. Putin said as much about himself. Don't let's go down this road.
They sold it for power. Classic.
The Biden's?
Millions in cash from the Ukrainians, Chinese, Romanians? All funneled through the idiot son. Why would let a crack addict become the bag man?
The CLinton's were worse. Seeking influence through their charity. Funny
how the money dried up once she left office
No soul?
Where is the democratic soul? There is nothing a leftist loves more than virtue signaling. Its all narcissism.
Looking at the polling. Americans aren't in love with open borders, inflation, culture wars, grooming children, & Ukraine.
Tell the Pope. He should take responsibility for this unholy problem. Roughly half of the Republicans are Catholic. Did you know that the French Constitution has a clause protecting aethiesm?
I hope the NYT article doesn’t encourage Judge Cannon to delay the trial in Florida.
Conservatives....
Cannot remember having a conversation about politics since 2009 when I didn't plead with someone to stop using the term conservative. The so-called conservatives have been radicals since Newt. While I'm pretty sure I've had zero effect, I keep hearing and reading the term, I persist.
Yeah, this quirk makes me super fun at parties.
Agreed. I call them far right radical regressives and yes, they are fascists.
They are ultra-extremist reactionaries, more than radical regressives (except intellectually, ethically, morally, IMO).
So, what term would you use? Fascist comes to my mind.
I like radical best because it is the opposite of their claims and describes the positions and policies accurately.
I see "radical" as another largely misappropriated word, that literally means "root", source of "radish". Technically, the work of Galileo was "radical", as was the politcal philosophy of the US Constitution. It is a fundamental change, but that can be good or bad, but somehow "radical" has become synonymous with excessive "extreme" or fanatical. Technically a responsible response to climate change will need to be genuinely radical, but I suppose I wouldn't call it that.
"Dictatorial."
MAGA’S
Conservatives they ain't. I think a more accurate term is 'reactionaries' though I'm afraid too few Americans may know what that means.
Anti-Americans and traitors works for me.
it's a difficult argument since words eventually mean, conversationally, whatever people think they mean, although I see value in challenging misapplied words chosen to mask treachery. Yes, I see a "conservative" small "c" approach as a compatible and sometimes necessary compliment to a bold, innovative one. I look to science as an example. What we really mean by "Conservative" in the political sense is "authoritarian".
That is so right, Lee. And correct.
JL Graham
And we the people must make sure they lose their campaigns. Each of us that read these things I’d guess do so with disbelief. That disbelief, that belief that it could not really happen must not be allowed to lull us into complacency. We must Vote and we must convince those around us to pay attention and to vote also
Do they even HAVE souls, J L? Holy crap....
'Alito and Thomas Write Opinion Declaring That Yachts Are People'
'WASHINGTON (The Borowitz Report)—Samuel Alito and Clarence Thomas have stirred controversy by co-authoring a Supreme Court opinion declaring that yachts are people.'
'The sweeping opinion, which yachts’-rights organizations immediately hailed as “long overdue,” grants the luxury vessels the unlimited ability to entertain government officials on their decks in order to gain political influence.'
“For decades, yachts have been tireless in their struggle to be treated like human beings,” Harland Dorrinson, the president of the National Council on Equality for Boats, said. “For them, this victory represents the end of a long, hard regatta.” (Satire, NewYorker)
Opinion/ Samuel Alito
Also, I Shouldn't Have To Disclose That I Had Sex With A Salmon (The Onion)
Nothing like a little salmon tartare!
We can’t lose our sense of humor!
You scared me this morning Fern. I was reading in a hurry and kind of skimmed the first part of your post, then I got to the bottom and realize you were quoting satire from the New Yorker. Heather's letter this morning really is scary in a real way. (Unfortunately it is real that Alito and Thomas just make stuff and it isn't satire.)
Well, if corporations are people. . . .
Yes. No accountability. I’m not sure it was revered Chief Joseph who put the red light on with his remarks about Corporations and what they truly represented.
Quoting Andy Borowitz, scared you this morning, Dave!? Scroll down a bit more, and you'll find me with Abraham Lincoln and HCR. Give it a go. Cheers!
No Fern, I was just surprised to see you quote satire, not really scared. I so enjoy and respect your commitments because they are so well researched. Thank you for the time and effort you put into this.
Thank you, Dave. I love that picture of you at work, such a 'damn' good machine! Yes, sir.
Thank God for the New Yorker! The humorists always have their fingers on the pulse.
Carol, what about Andy Borowitz, he wrote what you just read? He created The Borowitz Report, a satirical news column...', 'for which he won the first-ever National Press Club award for humor.' It was acquired by The New Yorker in 2012. His two most recent books were both best-sellers: “The 50 Funniest American Writers,” and “An Unexpected Twist,” … His latest book is “Profiles in Ignorance: How America’s Politicians Got Dumb and Dumber”. How does that title strike you?
"Profiles in Ignorance" should be mandatory reading for anyone with a pulse. And it will be out in paperback soon, I believe with added material (the clown car).
Yes, I am very familiar with Borowitz and I appreciate him greatly. I had just read what you posted in The New Yorker online. (Have been reading The New Yorker throughout 45's reign and its humor maintained my sanity!) But I have not read books by Borowitz. My daughter and brother have also recommended them to me. It's just a matter of not having enough time to read all I want to read.
Maybe that's a typo, but just in case: Borowitz
It was a typo. Thanks, David.
Strikes me as a reason to take another trip to the book store. LOL
This crap has been going on since they declared that Corporations are citizens, which was bogus then and remains bogus now. I think I'd better take a break from writing because I think I might give myself a heart attack and that won't help. Onward and out with the greedy bastards.
AMEN ! Susan ! , MAMMONITIES !!
Yes, I'm taking more than a break now. Thank you for your healthy leadership, Susan.
I agree and this letter is especially scary and of course, we have a troll or two taking all the air out of the thread. I am going outside to continue picking blueberries and some other things in my garden.
Hi Fern, I just read the Horowitz Report. Very interesting & funny. And how much more insane can the SCOTUS get declaring yachts are people. I like this part: “The public should note that yacht owners have traditionally referred to their boats as ‘she.” Ans “Given that, this is the most pro-female opinion this Court is likely to issue.”
LOVE IT
Hi LINDA. You read a short 'news satire' by Andy Borowitz. It was labeled as a satire at the end. If you scroll down a little from that post, I wrote a little about Borowitz. He has a regular series called 'The Borowitz Report' in the New Yorker Magazine, from which that was taken.
Thanks, as always, for the morning Borowitzer! ;D
Fern McBride (NYC). Borowitz’s sarcasm scares me - some days it seems like it could be true
Brilliant
How close are we to where Germany was in the early 30s? If this does not wake up Americans we are doomed. Who said it can't happen here? Wake up folks the train is leaving the station.
There is a book by Victor Klemperer titled "I Will Bear Witness 1933-1941, A Diary of the Nazi Years". It has the slow creeping feeling of horror that our current days are like. I hope that Heather's writings are not viewed similarly in the future. Hopefully, people wake up and realize how much they truly value is at risk as the MAGAs march toward dictatorship.
Also revealing: In The Garden of Beasts by Erik Larson. Novelistic history/narrative nonfiction look at Berlin, 1933. “Speaks volumes about why the world did not recognize the grave threat posed by Hitler until Berlin and Europe were awash in blood and terror.”
Also read this book, and I agree. I worry that too many try to normalize this as politics. What Trump and the right wing are doing right now is trying to normalize dictatorship. There are many fools who would believe that it will benefit them.
Dave ! The Problem, is There are TOO MANY, of MANKIND, Slugging around, " in the MATRIX !! PEOPLE, with ANY Sense, Have Got to WAKE UP !! ( I guess, All of the COFFEE, has Boiled Away, so that Great Aroma, HAS VAPOURIZED ! )
yes, bought this book several years ago. A must read for us now as we swim through this sea of "slow creeping feeling of horror".
Harvey, here in Fla the train is long gone. We are already a fascist State, thanks to the ambition, poor judgement and retaliatory politics of our Governor and his brainwashed legislature. Steve Scmidt calls him "Trump lite".....imo, worse, in most ways ( except nowhere near the crazily, destructive charismatic personality of tfg).
too close
And, on the way to Auschwitz ... if we do not take focused actions (plural) now. Many paths not the least of which is the legal vulnerability of "Project 2025". I will update comments through 2023 & 2024 when on point to this Community.
One starting point is NYT's 7/17/23 "Trump & Allies to Forge Plans to Increase Power in 2025" by stalwarts Jonathan Swan, Maggie Haberman & Charlie Savage. NYT subscribers the can "Gift " the article for FREE to anyone.
Monday Breaking Update: Jack Smith served a "Target Letter" on Donald J. Trump on tfg's actions to overturn the 2020 Election last Sunday. Note that tfg sat on tne Target Letter for more than 24 hours. tfg also got 96 hours notice to appear at Jack Smith's Grand Jury. Trump will not appear obviously which is a Target's right. The Indictment of Trump is likely before 7/31 as I have posted before.
I checked out "Project 2025" whose official propaganda uses the phrase "Presidential Transition Project" (sic). In case their message is unclear to anyone as of today, in their corporate logo "Project 2025" the numbers "25" aar in red. These are continuing overt acts of Sedition in my legal opinion.
Recall that Jack Smith uses "Speaking Indictments" where every word is backed by FRE admissible evidence. I now suspect Mr. Smith will beat my projected date of 7/31.
TODAY's UPDATE: Per Professor Joyce Vance the Michigan AG has applied for the indictment & arrest of the MichiganfrsuMichiganfrsudMichiganfrselectors.
BRYAN ! Liked Your Quote ; On the Way, to Auschwitz ! Thats EXACTLEY ! What will Come of US !, IF, the MAGGOTS ! Gain Control ! I wanted to Comment , Sooner, But I did not want to Offend Our Jewish Brothers and Sisters ! ,OR ALL of the other Mankind, that SUFFERED That ABSOLUTE ATROCITY ! It is AMAZING ! , that GOD! , has not REPENTED, for a SECOND TIME ! in the PROCESS, of Creating Mankind !!
Mark, months ago, I posted the details of my visit decafes ago to the Holocaust Museum in Washington DC on LFAA. With one exception, I spent nearly 3 hours exclusively on tne TOP floor of the Museum where the history, photographs, exhbits, museum artifacts & the curator's written details submerged me into deep dive into the 1930-1939 historical period during which there were scores of forshadowing events including attacks on disabled people, gay folks, social democrats, Jews & the blocking of refugees from coming to the United States. In the esrly 1930's the train arrival stations from Germany into Paris were very busy when Hitler assumed the Chancelllor position, the first formal step into the Holocaust during which tens of millions of people died including more than 15 million Russians at the western fronts to Stalingrad.
On my way out of the DC Museum I stopped to see famous color footage of the WW II liberation of one of the death camps. Absolutely never again.
Bryan, I have not been to One, of the *Shoah*. Museums, or to the "WALL"!
I'M an Emotional Soul, & I'm sure
It Would Rip Me APART !
YES, I've done much Reading on the Holocaust, & It's just UNBELIEVABLE
ON the HATRED, and EVIL, THAT OUR
JEWISH Brothers & Sisters, AND !
SO MANY, of EVERYBODY ELSE,
Had to go Through .
My Service. In *NAM*, & the
MENTAL DAMAGE, HAS BEEN UGLY,
BUT! my REDEEMER. LIVES !
AND True HEALING, is so EVEDANT !
GOD BLESS YOU ! and Your Family !
Any way to get this article here.....any subscribers willing to send a "gift"?
The Times allows 10 free articles a month.
https://www.nytimes.com/2023/07/17/us/politics/trump-plans-2025.html
I believe Muck Rack ( muckrack.com) carries just about everything Maggie writes under some sort of republication rights with NYT.
Confirmed, the NYT article is the 4th Link down at Muck Rack ... :)
Looks like this has a paywall too?
Honestly, I do not know but, note Link: "Learn about Muck Rack" ...
Hyperbole.
What train? There are no f***ing trains. Wish there had been during my 36-hour airport ordeal at the end of an otherwise pleasant vacay. A train would have been a nice option!
PS: I get your point--just had to grind my favorite ax a little
Yes Harvey, it ain't funny.
Yes, WAKE THE FOLK UP!
Doomed? That's true if you frighten people. Instead, you have to motivate them. I don't consider this country doomed because of what I read, but from people who spew fear on these comment threads. Come on, buck up.
That’s right Marycat. We’re not doomed- history will repeat itself only if we let it. We, the people, can’t let it happen. We act!
We read a lot of polemic that feels to me like it's as distorted as some of the crap the right wing spews. It's words. Nothing has actually happened. I read just now that Trump is whining again, in a long verbal vomit on Truth Social, saying he got a target letter from the grand jury investigating the Jan 6 insurrection. It was so bonkers that no sane human being would take him seriously. I am trusting the American people to keep this manipulative piece of crap out of the WH. I can't do anything else. I'm not worried about it because I am trusting Jack Smith, not freaking out over Trump's ranting and raving. Our government is a good and strong one.
Sadly, Trump’s whine-song is like the siren’s call to the sailors who were driven mad by it. There are a not insignificant number of Americans who totally buy into his schtick and bow down to him as some kind of savior (so so so hard to wrap my head around that!). Others who have a radically different view of what they want this country to be (those mostly in the shadows surrounding him) and see him as a useful tool to move this country administratively (Legislative, Judicial & Executive…and civil service) significantly to right. Like Toni Morrison said “when someone shows you who they are, believe them”—so I take them at their word what vision they see. Maybe a term that combines autocracy, kakistocracy & oligarchy to describe their philosophy. It will be all hands on deck to thwart this & is no time to fiddle with so-called 3rd parties, Dem challengers, etc.—Joe’s been doing a damn fine job given his constraints IMHO, let’s keep rowing this direction with sure and strong strokes at the oar.
https://projects.fivethirtyeight.com/polls/favorability/donald-trump/
I take polls with a huge grain of salt, but 56% of Americans have a negative opinion of Trump. Favorability hasn't budged and is in the low 40's.
We wander into the anxiety forest when we worry about what hasn't happened. Trust Jack Smith.
I'm stealing the Rump's "whine-song". And you are right - and it's SO HARD to figure out why anyone would find his words and his actions to be worthy of giving more than two seconds on, or taking the least bit seriously, or respectable in the least. I just can't wrap my mind around this yahoo's appeal! (I mean, I get it that some, perhaps many, are in it for the money and whatever fame is incurred in being in the orbit of the Rump - at least until he's in prison, or under it - when "fame" converts to "notoriety" - but those can't be in the majority, can they?) And if they do feel this way about the Rump, HOW can their brainwashing be converted into rational thought? This must be the ultimate goal, because as long as there are many people thinking/believing in the Rump, the American Dream will remain out of reach for some other people - and that must not be.
Marycat, I love this. Buck up we must and intimidating people is just what bullies try to do. We can and must do better. I'm tired of being horrified and dismayed. I'm pissed off and fed up and ready to fight back against the zombie monsters.
We are there. We were close in 2012.
The "slow walking" of the two serious legal issues Trump faces, the Mar-a-Lago documents case and the Georgia interference case, pose the most urgent threat we now face (IMHO). If the DOJ and The Georgia courts don't bring these cases to a head before we get too far into 2024, I fear Trump will never be held accountable. In that event, all bets are off.
I agree that these trials need to happen, and happen soon, but even if he were to be found guilty of all of the possible accusations, do any of us really believe that it would change many MAGA, or for that matter many Republican, votes? On Sunday’s Jack podcast - which I would encourage you all to check out - the point was made that if a candidate were, in fact, innocent of the crimes with which they had been charged, they would want the speediest trial possible so that they would be exonerated well before the election. Interesting and obvious point.
Unfortunately, it seems apparent now, Betsy that it will take a long time for the MAGA devotees to come to their senses...if ever. Some will completely ruin their own lives, serve jail terms and even worse, suffer deep personal humiliation from the error of their ways. It was tragic indeed for our fledgling nation when thousands of Tories left for England at the end of the American Revolution but things turned out quite well in the end. The majority of Americans will move forward and our country will keep becoming, as it always has and must.
KD, unfortunately there is no “England” for the MAGAt’s to flee to!!! Hmmm, maybe offer free one-way tickets to Türkiye? It is puzzling to me that they see themselves as the “true Patriots” and all others as traitors….seems like fundamental differences in the vision and belief of what the USA stands for (well, the ideal that it is working toward anyway). The script has totally been flipped and is amazing (as in horrifying) to watch it unfold & what they are saying out loud, tho’ I think those w/ their hands on the levers of power & money are quietly trying to nurture their vision by financially supporting the MAGA-supporting groups. My hope is that despite great efforts to prevent it (voting rights repression, gerrymandering, et.), the majority will rise up and put down this creeping putsch.
I should also have added Hungary to the list of far-right-sliding “democracies”. Many in the current Republican Party seem to be smitten, especially, with Orban & Hungary.
Yes, I think you’re right, Barbara.
I would very much like to share your optimism.
Hang in there…the pathway will continue to be filled with twists and turns. E Pluribus Unum
I fear LeMoine could be right
Ah, yes, the Rings of Power….And remember how Gollum became OBSESSED when he LOST his PRECIOUS???
And, yes, Sauron was the Corporate Head of the Dark World and demanded LOYALTY from all of his subjects. He wasn’t going to let those Little People (with the Hairy Toes) anywhere near Mount Doom.
Even back then, people were saying that Bilbo was too old and uninformed to face the Evil (and visibly ORANGE) Underworld. Bilbo believed in true SMALL government, and, he believed in the next generation - in the person of Frodo Baggins.
Republicans are this monster. Of course they won't fight themselves.
Conservatives and libertarians
Libertarians are conservatives who want get laid and smoke dope…
- Thom Hartmann
“Libertarian” is a made-up word from a cynical, neonazi fascist, Charles KKKoch. It is one of may euphemisms he placed into the right-wing vernacular to sugarcoat his agenda. It belongs right beside terms like “Citizens United,” “Peace keepers,” or the weaponization of words like, “liberal,” “swift boating” or “Hillary.”
"Republicans won't fight this monster."
The Repugnant Party is the Monster.
My thoughts exactly. Well said, and frightening.
Alexandria Sounds like a coup d’etat reminiscent of Hitler moving into the Reichstag. At the time Hitler said that he would only leave ‘feet first.’
Vote BLUE, up and down the ticket...
In every single election. Make it your business to stay informed about when and where your local elections are being held, and help out your neighbors in getting registered and in voting in those elections as well as the big state and nationals.
Perhaps HCR should have mentioned the constitutional underpinning of the Republican plan to "consolidate" the various departments and agencies of the Executive Branch under the authority of the President.
This is the so-called "unitary executive theory," favored by William Barr and others. See "The Misguided Unitary Executive Theory Gains Ground":
https://verdict.justia.com/2023/06/19/the-misguided-unitary-executive-theory-gains-ground
See also "The Unitary Executive: Past, Present and Future":
https://www.journals.uchicago.edu/doi/full/10.1086/714860
I have to ask if HCR's use of the phrase "establish a dictatorship" is overblown rhetoric. Perhaps it is her assessment that Trump and Co. plan to go far beyond the Unitary Executive theory in their vision for a reworked federal government. I am open to the thought but not convinced.
You're not convinced? They just told you that's what they plan to do. How much more blatant do they need to be?
Is this your first encounter with Mr Schmeeckle?
I don’t even read his comments as soon as I see his name.
Gollum, gollum.
Scroll on by....
Barbara,
My reply to james wheaton is here:
https://heathercoxrichardson.substack.com/p/july-17-2023/comment/20974985
With you on that!
Victoria Wilson,
My reply to james wheaton is here:
https://heathercoxrichardson.substack.com/p/july-17-2023/comment/20974985
Denise H.,
I suspect that you did not read HCR's latest letter carefully. She packaged together snippets from conservative ideologues with accusatory summaries from opposing news media to create a toxic blend of propaganda.
Asserting the President's hands-on authority over all the departments and agencies of the Executive Branch (that is, the "Unitary Executive theory of constitutional interpretation, which I do NOT support) is different from reaching for dictatorial control over the Legislative and Judicial Branches.
JOHN The Problem, is You Want to Support a Heart, of a man, That is DECEITFULLY WICKED, and is Hardened As hard, as One Each, PHARAOH ! of the Days, of MOSES ! GODS Soon Intervention WILL, Clean UP! This Whole MESS !
Yes, it is. I see now that he is a troll and/or woefully uninformed. Thanks for bringing that to my attention.
He disappears if you snap your fingers the right way.
thank you for the laugh this am -
I thought you had to click your heels together three times.
A-L SNAP SNAP
John is a rabbit hole in waiting. He loves to draw you in with outrageous comments and then engage with dubious sources. Trying to torture us is one of his hobbies. Best to ignore. Which I just didn't do.... :)
Hey Bill. Surprisingly, as negatively as I react to this persons combative commentary, I did not find these particular sources dubious, but, then I am no expert. I will be checking them, in the future, for further SCOTUS discussion coverage.
Bill I have a delicious recipe for rabbit stew though, personally, I wouldn’t want a smidgeon of JS in my innards.
Bill Alstrom,
I suspect that you did not read HCR's latest letter carefully. She packaged together snippets from conservative ideologues with accusatory summaries from opposing news media to create a toxic blend of propaganda.
Asserting the President's hands-on authority over all the departments and agencies of the Executive Branch (that is, the "Unitary Executive theory of constitutional interpretation, which I do NOT support) is different from reaching for dictatorial control over the Legislative and Judicial Branches.
"Schmeeckle?" My old eyes read "Schmeckle."
I always read “John Sméagol”. In a Gollum voice.
The pronunciation is "Schmeckly" -- the name is Nebraska German.
Anne-Louise Luccarini,
I suspect that you did not read HCR's latest letter carefully. She packaged together snippets from conservative ideologues with accusatory summaries from opposing news media to create a toxic blend of propaganda.
Asserting the President's hands-on authority over all the departments and agencies of the Executive Branch (that is, the "Unitary Executive theory of constitutional interpretation, which I do NOT support) is different from reaching for dictatorial control over the Legislative and Judicial Branches.
How much oxygen do you all intend to allow this Russian troll "Schmeekle" to burn here? Please, let it drop. He'll flame out.
LeMoine Surlamont,
Your comment is typical of a boistrous minority around here, sneering at me and mischaracterizing where I'm coming from while studiously avoiding any engagement with the ideas that I bring to the discussion (such as, for example, my thought that HCR misrepresented the conservative Republican "Unitary Executive" theory as a quest for dictatorship).
My reply to james wheaton is here:
https://heathercoxrichardson.substack.com/p/july-17-2023/comment/20974985
The ability to RATIONALIZE is unlimited. The well educated and intelligent Nazis had a rationale to exterminate people en masse.
Thats WHY ! , WE !, ... The PEOPLE! Truly have to ACTIVATE !! & get the SANE ! to VOTE !!
Harvey Kravetz,
I suspect that you did not read HCR's latest letter carefully. She packaged together snippets from conservative ideologues with accusatory summaries from opposing news media to create a toxic blend of propaganda.
Asserting the President's hands-on authority over all the departments and agencies of the Executive Branch (that is, the "Unitary Executive theory of constitutional interpretation, which I do NOT support) is different from reaching for dictatorial control over the Legislative and Judicial Branches.
They plan to "unify" the President's control over the Executive Branch. I don't think that's the same as "establish a dictatorship."
That is truly the power of belief John. You get to believe whatever you want.
But, back in reality space, when you consolidate power into one government entity that also places power with a single individual, like the Presidency, that is the definition of:
Dictatorship.
Mike S, re definition of Dictatorship; folks of John’s ilk have their own “neo fact alternative” convenience dictionary. Words mean whatever they want them to mean according to the situation
See “traitor”, “patriot”, “science”, “evidence”,
In a world where words mean something, they get confused
Also add "Christian" to that list
Dave Dalton,
asserting the President's hands-on authority over all the departments and agencies of the Executive Branch is different from reaching for dictatorial control over the Legislative and Judicial Branches.
Are you really that ignorant?
https://heathercoxrichardson.substack.com/p/july-17-2023/comment/20962438
I agree. Remember separation of powers (on the stone-paper-scissors principle). As I see it (from afar) there is a serious risk that those key elements of democracy (Judiciary/Congress/executive) are all being morphed into one which would mean there is no check on government excesses. You can call it what you like but it smells, feels, looks and tastes like dictatorship.
AMEN !! Richard !
Richard B,
Asserting the President's hands-on authority over all the departments and agencies of the Executive Branch is different from reaching for dictatorial control over the Legislative and Judicial Branches.
Are you really that ignorant?
Mike S - "That is truly the power of belief John. You get to believe whatever you want."
The cure:
"𝘐𝘯 𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘢𝘧𝘧𝘢𝘪𝘳𝘴, 𝘪𝘵'𝘴 𝘢 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘭𝘵𝘩𝘺 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘯𝘰𝘸 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘯 𝘵𝘰 𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘨 𝘢 𝘲𝘶𝘦𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘮𝘢𝘳𝘬 𝘰𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘴 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘩𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘭𝘰𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘢𝘬𝘦𝘯 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘨𝘳𝘢𝘯𝘵𝘦𝘥." --Bertrand Russell
Or
"𝘈𝘭𝘭 𝘭𝘪𝘦𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘫𝘦𝘴𝘵
𝘚𝘵𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘢 𝘮𝘢𝘯 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘴 𝘸𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘯𝘵𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘳
𝘈𝘯𝘥 𝘥𝘪𝘴𝘳𝘦𝘨𝘢𝘳𝘥𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘵" --"The Boxer," Simon & Garfunkel
Like this as well (don’t know who to attribute it to): “Unanswered questions are far less dangerous than unquestioned answers.”
Ron Boyd,
Asserting the President's hands-on authority over all the departments and agencies of the Executive Branch is different from reaching for dictatorial control over the Legislative and Judicial Branches.
Are you really that ignorant?
p.s. I see you quote from the genocidal racist Bertrand Russell, who wrote that "the less prolific races will have to defend themselves from the more prolific races by means which are disgusting even if they are necessary."
Mike S, asserting the President's hands-on authority over all the departments and agencies of the Executive Branch is different from reaching for dictatorial control over the Legislative and Judicial Branches.
Are you really that ignorant?
John !, The " Broken Record Noise !, " is Boring !
John,
Gosh, your insults are hurting my formerly Conservative stained fingers....... feelings.
LOL.
If trump "unifies" the president's control over the executive branch, who do you think he will he bring together? They will be people loyal to trump who will do his bidding. trump will be the last word on everything. He wants to be a dictator. His supporters want an authoritarian regime. Republicans are telling us every day what kind of government they want. It's past time to start believing them.
BC,
My reply to james wheaton is here:
https://heathercoxrichardson.substack.com/p/july-17-2023/comment/20974985
Making the executive unitary is exactly the same thing as a dictatorship. Both are government by one person. Maybe you can wrap your head around this; No matter how you pronounce tomato, it's still a tomato.
What Trump is doing is classic fascist maneuvering and those of us who know our history refuse to repeat it.
Precisely. He thinks he is God and has told us he is a "jeanius" and the only one who can "fix everything." He is an addict with a cult following. desantis is blatantly morphing FL into a fascist state using the same Nazi playbook dictators use, as does trump. The strange thing is, they have such shortsightedness on how their ideas create nothing but the destruction and poverty of minds, creativity and forward thinking...and, ultimately, serious danger to the rest of us who want the freedoms of our social democracy for ourselves and for the next generations. We are the employers. We pay for all of this with our hard-earned money and good will. Social security does not belong to the government—it belongs to us. Our people have fought and died in too many wars to have these idiots abscond with democracy. Time for Women, Men and Others to stand up to this BS and start marching to win on all our streets. I cannot believe our passivity. What did we learn about Germany when the mind-controlled Germans began dragging people out of their homes and businesses? No one stood up to them. Do we want to live with the ilk of Putin, Dutuerte, Jong Un, MTG, Boebart, Gaetz, etc. as our leaders? They are a waste of our time, our money and our life energy. Geeze. But we need to wake up and pay attention. Maybe it is time to grab all these wannabe dictator guys and gals, and their guns, and inject them with large doses of estrogen and put them out to pasture in barbed-wire golf courses while we save the country. This mind-controlled cult appear to be AI experiments gone wrong. Just like the Nazis. Why do people want to be so unhappy? An addict the other day said, people who happy never become addicts. What a wise addict! I would include that infantile need for power over others as a super addiction. We must deal with it...and swiftly.
I completely agree but we cannot just speak of action....besides voting and besides sharing our opinions what can we do????
Pensa,
Asserting the President's hands-on authority over all the departments and agencies of the Executive Branch is different from reaching for dictatorial control over the Legislative and Judicial Branches.
Are you really that ignorant?
BlueRootsRadio,
Asserting the President's hands-on authority over all the departments and agencies of the Executive Branch is different from reaching for dictatorial control over the Legislative and Judicial Branches.
Are you really that ignorant?
When you're saying that if elected you will fire everyone and defund every agency not in line with your thinking YOU ARE SAYING YOU WANT TO BE A DICTATOR.
But you know that. This is what trolls do, are you a troll? Why else would you be tippy-toeing around an illiberal movement in a liberal democracy forum? You'll waste no more of my time John.
BlueRootsRadio,
Asserting the President's hands-on authority over all the departments and agencies of the Executive Branch is different from reaching for dictatorial control over the Legislative and Judicial Branches.
Are you really that ignorant?
I said they are the same. Get help, you need it. From now on you're blocked. Time is too precious to waste on your drivel.
John, it's pretty clear that Trump wants all of the power, to do anything he wants to do, however he wants to do it. It's how he's worked as a businessman and "entertainer" on Reality TV and his 4 years as an elected President. Loyal people are great, the best. Once they figure out who he really is and they leave or turn on him, they are incompetent fools...that he never really knew. He's totally consistent....and the worst possible person to be anywhere near the WH.
Mike, I totally agree with you. But we should not forget how he stiffs contractors and even some of his attorneys. He is on a power grab of the highest order and I am scared s***less!
I think there are also his “loyalists” who pander to him and see him as a means to an end…that is a remaking of the USA, contrary to the Constitution & Bill of Rights into an authoritarian-“Christian” state. He likes being in “control” but I doubt he knows how any of it works….he’s all speech & strut…no real governance.
Mike Wicklein, I am inclined to meet you halfway regarding your assessment of Trump. But beyond that is the constitutional question raised by the "unitary executive" theory.
Perhaps you are well aware that asserting the President's hands-on authority over all the departments and agencies of the Executive Branch is different from reaching for dictatorial control over the Legislative and Judicial Branches.
John, the Difference, is the " Condition of the mans HEART !" trump !, has a " Very Sick Condition !" Stay in BED !, donald ! NOT !, in the WH !!
John to Mark's point, Trump is a very unhealthy human being. He is not the smartest guy in the room, he has to be right, he never takes the blame for anything. He is as toxic as toxic gets. He will ride his big lie that led to J 6 to his grave. He has to. He is incapable of saying...I messed up. Does that make him a dictator? No. But the only way he can operate is to have total control and loyalty. Whatever idea he has is the best in that moment...and you are either loyal and on board or you're a fool and he doesn't know you. He is king material. A real democracy is not his form of ruling. Look at the world leaders he admires. The people who still love him, warts and all...and I know some of them, grew up with them, some are family...even the ones who value loyalty are starting to see the problems. They have been fed so much propaganda, it's hard to "get real". I really want to see Chris Christie debate him. I'd pay good money to be there. Good luck with your life. May truth and good sense prevail, so that democracy as messy as it is continue on another 250 years. Peace.
Go away troll.
Stay ignorant all you want, but your BS doesn't fly here.
One and only reply you will get from me.
Beth Cobb,
Asserting the President's hands-on authority over all the departments and agencies of the Executive Branch is different from reaching for dictatorial control over the Legislative and Judicial Branches.
Are you really that ignorant?
JOHN = One EACH, " BROKEN RECORD ROBOT ..."
No, but "increase the president's authority over every part of the federal government" sure sounds like it's heading in that direction.
Talia Morris,
Asserting the President's hands-on authority over all the departments and agencies of the Executive Branch is different from reaching for dictatorial control over the Legislative and Judicial Branches.
Are you really that ignorant?
John ! Your brain, IS " UPSIDE, ....DOWN! ( LORD !, Have MERCY !! )
https://heathercoxrichardson.substack.com/p/july-17-2023/comment/20992660
JOHN, MY PHONE "LUNCHED OUT!"
WHILE I was Messaging You, on the message You Spoke on "HELLFIRE & BRIMSTONE .
JUST UNDERSTAND, YOU ! ...
are in MY PRAYERS !
(LORD!, ....HELP ME !, ..and You !)
Sounds like argumentative word play to me, John. It very much means the same thing.
I don't think so, and I think there are important related issues to sort out. For example, my reply to james wheaton is here:
https://heathercoxrichardson.substack.com/p/july-17-2023/comment/20974985
You don't??? Naive.
sandy daly,
Asserting the President's hands-on authority over all the departments and agencies of the Executive Branch is different from reaching for dictatorial control over the Legislative and Judicial Branches.
Are you really that ignorant?
Imagine, Mr. Schmeeckle, that I became president after Trump's establishment of his extreme version of a unitary executive system, and I hated corporations and and science. What would happen if I fired every bureaucrat that resisted extreme regulations on every facet of business. What would happen if I fired everyone who resisted my moves to end all defense-related research?
You might want want your favored policies to be implemented by an unbound Trump, but your want civil war if what I imagined came to pass.
If you think those with extreme anti-corpiration and anti-science can never get elected once Trump's vision is realized, you really are part of the problem.
Jerry Helfhand,
I hope that you haven't been smoking crack cocaine.
My reply to james wheaton is here:
https://heathercoxrichardson.substack.com/p/july-17-2023/comment/20974985
The point, John, is that Trump will weaponize all bureaucracies, and that's bad. That you state to James that you don't favor the unitary executive doesn't jive with your defense of everything around Trump. That you pick out Soros as a core evil in society tells me that you've swallowed the white supremacist anti-Semitic conspiracy bullshit whole, without chewing. That you proudly link to a previous reply to someone else tells me you are lost. Bye.
Andrea Wittchen,
I suspect that you did not read HCR's latest letter carefully. She packaged together snippets from conservative ideologues with accusatory summaries from opposing news media to create a toxic blend of propaganda.
Asserting the President's hands-on authority over all the departments and agencies of the Executive Branch (that is, the "Unitary Executive theory of constitutional interpretation, which I do NOT support) is different from reaching for dictatorial control over the Legislative and Judicial Branches.
John. I do not think HCR traffics in hyperbole. Her words are carefully chosen. Judicious language as we all know. The alarm expressed is real and frightening
Joan Levine,
I suspect that you did not read HCR's latest letter carefully. She packaged together snippets from conservative ideologues with accusatory summaries from opposing news media to create a toxic blend of propaganda.
Asserting the President's hands-on authority over all the departments and agencies of the Executive Branch (that is, the "Unitary Executive theory of constitutional interpretation, which I do NOT support) is different from reaching for dictatorial control over the Legislative and Judicial Branches.
"I have to ask if HCR's use of the phrase "establish a dictatorship" is overblown rhetoric."
John, there should be a question mark at the end of your question.
And, the answer is no.
Perhaps you should check your grammar before making a public fool of yourself.
Well, John, if you are reduced to observations about grammar, you must be at the end of your argument. Hoping this means good-bye.
Annie D Stratton,
Not reduced at all. I replied to Mike S's obnoxious and inaccurate observation about grammar, in a context where he was going around trolling me.
My basic point is this:
Asserting the President's hands-on authority over all the departments and agencies of the Executive Branch is different from reaching for dictatorial control over the Legislative and Judicial Branches.
Do you disagree?
John,
Now, now, obnoxious?
Now my feelings are really hurt. Dang. I'll be back for you tomorrow though.
And, the next.
LOL
John,
I am guessing you had one too many private schools pandering to your feelings.
Drop another rock, it might help
Sir, it is NOT overblown rhetoric. It’s the Nazi game plan and they are all in.
Jen Schaefer,
Asserting the President's hands-on authority over all the departments and agencies of the Executive Branch is different from reaching for dictatorial control over the Legislative and Judicial Branches.
Unless, of course, the party he heads already controls them. Note also that the Executive Branch appoints judges. It's no coincidence that the "Republican" Party allowed federal judgeships to go unfilled until they could take control and stuff the vacant positions with political hacks. Tuberville hopes to accomplish the same with the military.
You know very well that this isn't just about Trump and never has been. It's about an authoritarian Christian nationalist cult of which he is the current head. They already control much of the judiciary and very nearly control the legislative branch. They also control enough state governments to simply negate any election results they don't like. They are publicly saying as much.
And, as we have seen, if all else fails they will attempt a violent overthrow of the government. They almost succeeded in 2021, as you may or may not recall.
The Executive Branch has far too much power as it is, but at least those employed in those agencies are actual professionals who get and hold their jobs based on their professional qualifications. Replacing them all with political toadies is what they do in dictatorships. Stalin did it. Hitler did it. Mao did it. Roman Emperors did it. Every king, dictator, and autocrat throughout history has done it.
If you knew anything at all about history, you'd realize how very much the right wing vision for America resembles Soviet Russia. Or the Roman Empire. Or any of the pre-Enlightenment monarchies in Europe. Or any of the many other racial and religious autocracies that have come and gone in human history over the past several thousand years.
Republican democracy is relatively new on the historical front. It could vanish both here and in Europe. We could, if we allow ourselves to become complacent (clearly your goal here), allow the forces of reaction to negate not only the entire 20th century but everything back to the Divine Right of Kings—which is what "Christian Nationalism" amounts to, in case you haven't noticed. Which would, I guess, be a good fit for an economy that is becoming increasingly feudal.
^^^^THIS!^^^^ TFG has an authoritarian/bully personality, but he is only a figurehead to be manipulated by the forces only now slowly coming out of the shadows. Oh, they were always there with their influence, but seems to have caught fire with a larger receptive population. All about money and power at the expense of the common good.
As I have said before, turning to Biden to escape Trump is like turning to Dracula to get away from Godzilla.
Indeed. Ignoring the real nature of the treat is either a case of historical naïveté or simply dishonest. I know which one I'd bet on. :-)
Stephen Strange,
You get it very wrong in your assessment of where I'm coming from, but you also bring up some cogent points worth discussing, if I have time later.
Meanwhile, here's what that "unitary executive" is all about. I have a feeling that you might have missed a lot of this: https://hartmannreport.com/p/how-democracy-dies-the-first-month-6a3
Hopefully you would be satisfied with an adjective like "anti-democratic" or "autocratic" instead of "dictatorial"? The thrust of all of these descriptors inherently goes to one’s intentional disregard of the carefully conceived constitutional balance of powers among executive, legislative and judicial branches of federal government (designed to stop or at least curb the effort of one branch to subsume the powers of the other two). More simply stated, Trump indisputably disdains the balance of powers, the rule of law, free and fair elections and the unfettered right to vote. None of autocratic Trump, anti-democratic DeSantis or preening sycophant and Trump ‘24 VP hopeful Greene are fit for any elected office the oath of which demands the loyalty of the office holder to uphold these essential precepts of our democratic Republic.
Tom Dabney,
I suspect that you did not read HCR's latest letter carefully. She packaged together snippets from conservative ideologues with accusatory summaries from opposing news media to create a toxic blend of propaganda.
Asserting the President's hands-on authority over all the departments and agencies of the Executive Branch (that is, the "Unitary Executive theory of constitutional interpretation, which I do NOT support) is different from reaching for dictatorial control over the Legislative and Judicial Branches.
Are you apologising for Trump from Russia?
Virginia, quite a number of subscribers, perhaps, some unfamiliar with this nasty, negative, anti-democracy character continue to parry with him. They fuel his presence. This unfortunately takes up a great deal of space on the forum. If you scroll up and down you'll see what I mean. There is no winning with this distraction. Cheers!
Fern , You are RIGHT ! I Will shut UP ! on My Part ! It Is TRUE ! JS , is no different, than trump ! A repeating TRIPE !, A TTETION SNITCHER !
good point
I am going to ignore him going forward Fern. Thanks for the good idea.
Ditto
Virginia Hastings,
What an obnoxious way to avoid the content of what I was saying.
I suspect that you did not read HCR's latest letter carefully. She packaged together snippets from conservative ideologues with accusatory summaries from opposing news media to create a toxic blend of propaganda.
Asserting the President's hands-on authority over all the departments and agencies of the Executive Branch (that is, the "Unitary Executive theory of constitutional interpretation, which I do NOT support) is different from reaching for dictatorial control over the Legislative and Judicial Branches.
Wow. John Sméagol really crawled from his cave under the Misty Mountains in a bad mood today… You literally posted the same reply 21 times. Gollum, gollum…
Dutch Mike, you and many others have been avoiding any engagement with my basic point:
Asserting the President's hands-on authority over all the departments and agencies of the Executive Branch (that is, the "Unitary Executive" theory of constitutional interpretation, which I do NOT support) is different from reaching for dictatorial control over the Legislative and Judicial Branches.
Do you and others disagree with my basic point?
If not, then why the public effort to scorn me?
That's quite simple. Have you ever considered the _way_ you carry your message? I mean, asking rhetorical questions and simply posting the same replies over and over in every conversation isn't going to help. That's not engagement, that's spamming.
And if you want engagement, how does Trump's idea of purging all intelligence agencies and stacking them with his loyalists NOT fit in the scheme for gaining dictatorial control?
I will be the first to admit that I don't know all the legal ramifications of unitary executive theory. But there are two things that make me deeply cynical of this "project 2025". One - it's whole purpose is to undo what they claim liberals have done to our government. To reorganize such that conservative policy can be implemented without obstruction. That is clearly stated in the goals. One has to ask, would such re-organization be recommended for a Democratic administration? Answer - NO! So this change would be meant to stamp out progressivism for good. Regardless of the will of the people. That should be a non-starter. Two - the intent is to implement this with a Republican president, and they are thinking twice impeached and indicted Trump. That is the guy would can take such a thing and turn it into what HCR states as "establishing a dictatorship". I have no doubt at all that what he would do (or try to do) would have parallels with Mussolini or Hitler. And that should be a non-starter.
james wheaton,
I am going to imagine a hypocritical, self-serving Republican rebuttal to your post. It goes like this:
"Progressive Democrats have been corrupted and perverted by bucket-loads of filthy money from that alien zillionaire George Soros, and we need to do everything we can to rid the federal government of the Soros stench."
Here's a conservative source saying that "George Soros has supported, advocated and bankrolled everything rotten, subversive, destructive, hateful and evil."
https://www.wnd.com/2022/10/billionaire-thinks-god/
p.s. I hope you have already figured out that I oppose the "Unitary Executive" theory. I also think that Soros is vile.
John,
Get a job man.
go do some work.
"They call me the working man..."
https://youtu.be/iIGKlicb8n0
These fascists are in the minority.We must fight them tooth and nail.The 2024 election is a referendum on whether we continue down the road of democracy or succumb to fascism.I am hoping that those who know help others to know or outnumber the authoritarian minority.
From The American Prospect: "The Times report is characteristically stuffy about what is going on here. Yet the reporters got enough Trump cronies on the record to make the stakes abundantly clear. The plan is called Project 2025—a transition project started long in advance this time, with the explicit purpose of making the entire government beholden to Trump’s every whim. “There is no way to make the existing structure function in a conservative manner. It’s not enough to get the personnel right. What’s necessary is a complete system overhaul,” said McEntee. “What we’re trying to do is identify the pockets of independence and seize them,” said Trump’s former Office of Management chief Russell T. Vought. Institutional support comes from the Heritage Foundation; its president Kevin D. Roberts said: “The notion of independent federal agencies or federal employees who don’t answer to the president violates the very foundation of our democratic republic.”"
https://prospect.org/politics/2023-07-18-donald-trump-plotting-make-himself-dictator/
Traditional strategy of "run it up a flag pole and see who votes for (buys) it." By gum, enough running or currently elected Republicans who are looking to their personal public service careers see real benefits of this restart. Darn, let's get behind this. We can't loses? Forget about another generation as if we do it right our tribe members will do just fine. Now. How do we reframe or rename public good, freedom, entitlements, ill-gotten gains, former civil servants, evil, sin, justice, etc. Woke works. Socialism has a bad task. Public service really is getting your share without working. A good employee is one who we can get rid of for any reason. An educated American is one who is loyal to our God and the causes of the leaders party.
What are you smoking?
Who is using the FBI to target political opponents?
Who is using the IRS to target political opponents?
Who lied to the public about COVID vaccine efficacy and masks?
Who tried to create a disinformation board to target opponents?
Who wants to take away your gun?
Monitor your speech?
Should I go on?
Leftists don't believe in free speech or individual choices. They believe the state is the supreme authority.
You're gonna need a bigger screen for all that projection.
You are delusional.
The definition is leftism is AUTHORITARIAN. WHo wants to tell you what you can say?
think? what kind of car you can drive? what food you can eat? where you can live?
Who wants to monitor your speech? Your money?
Not the Republicans.
NAME a single leftist country where freedom and speech are valued? Not in China,
Not in Venezuela, Not in Cuba, Not in the old Soviet Union.
As before, TFG and compatriots are saying the quiet parts out loud. We need to believe them and behave accordingly. We need to point out how Biden’s administration is embracing Eisenhower’s Republican ideals—for example, using the federal government to accomplish needed infrastructure that the individual states cannot afford and taking advantage of economies of scale. We need to get nonvoters to realize how Biden administration policies have made their lives, and those of their grandchildren, better. It’s not a time to become paralyzed by fear; the Ukrainians have shown us how to fight for democracy.
If only the Dems had that kind of messaging! They lack ways of getting that information out there. Needs to be spoken in a loud and clear voice.
Marlene, I think it’s not so much that the democrats aren’t messaging loud and clear, it’s more that our major media outlets such as the New York Times, Washington Post, CNN etc aren’t calling ducks, ducks, even when they are quacking their fool heads off. And by ducks, I mean fascists. I don’t know if it’s for clickbait, timidity, fear of lawsuits, agreement, or what, but the reluctance of the media to call lies what they are is beyond dangerous at this point. It’s almost as if they learned nothing from 2016. The media trying to present both sides equally and fairly when one side has lost their minds is dangerous. If we lose our democracy, the media will have been complicit. Without that complicity, these plans wouldn’t work. Just as an example, right AFTER writing the article Heather cites, Maggie Haberman was on Twitter talking about how “the person who is leading the GOP polls by a wide mile has a pretty robust policy page and a lot of policy to point to in office.” Wtf?
Beyond that, there is likewise a lack of trumpeting the enormous successes of this administration from the rooftops, because quiet competence just doesn’t sell advertising - it’s not flashy and doesn’t inspire the same emotional responses from readers and watchers that anger and fear do. Those emotional responses are what advertisers live for.
Let’s be honest, without Dr. Richardson, would we be as aware of those successes as we are?
Chump sucks the oxygen out of the country, MSM is complicit. We are being asphyxiated
Chump is a money-machine for MSM. Do not look for that to end ever. If Biden’s message needs to get out, it’s we who need to do the shouting, writing, phoning, coffee-klatching, letter-to-the-editors, and door knocking about it. We are the messengers. “It’s Working!” Never makes as much money for MSM as manufactured-soap-opera-drama doused in racism-sauce.
Jeri My mother taught me to flush John.
Well said. I'm a fairly recent convert myself, although people deep in Republican land have been telling me about her since the dark days of TFG's reign. I love that HCR celebrates journalists who do report accurately and urgently.
You might read Robert Reich's substack. He too is telling this story.
Well that’s excellent company! I like him.
The New York Times, Washington Post, VOX, The New Yorker, The Atlantic, Politico...the papers and magazines that I read, KR, call a spade a spade, a duck a duck, and an autocrat an autocrat and a Democrat a Democrat.
Mother Jones, also. Now we have ProPublica to thank. Morning, Fern!
Good morning, Marlene! The sky looks lousy and the air did not breath well, when I stuck my head out the window. I'm going to check the air quality index before going outside. The wildfires in Canada are strongly ablaze. This earth, including the oceans, is getting hotter and hotter. So, what are the 'leaders' around the world doing about it? We've have got to put the HEAT on them!
No kidding!! Stay inside, if you can. We, in CA know exactly what you’re going through. Be safe.
Marlene, I contributed to ProPublica several months ago and began subscribing at that time. Its mission follows, along with a link, which will inform interested subscribers. I hope that there are many of you.
'The Mission'
'To expose abuses of power and betrayals of the public trust by government, business, and other institutions, using the moral force of investigative journalism to spur reform through the sustained spotlighting of wrongdoing.'
'ProPublica is an independent, nonprofit newsroom that produces investigative journalism with moral force. We dig deep into important issues, shining a light on abuses of power and betrayals of public trust — and we stick with those issues as long as it takes to hold power to account.'
'With a team of more than 100 dedicated journalists, ProPublica covers a range of topics including government and politics, business, criminal justice, the environment, education, health care, immigration, and technology. We focus on stories with the potential to spur real-world impact. Among other positive changes, our reporting has contributed to the passage of new laws; reversals of harmful policies and practices; and accountability for leaders at local, state and national levels.'
'Investigative journalism requires a great deal of time and resources, and many newsrooms can no longer afford to take on this kind of deep-dive reporting. As a nonprofit, ProPublica’s work is powered primarily through donations. The vast bulk of the money we spend goes directly into world-class, award-winning journalism. We are committed to uncovering the truth, no matter how long it takes or how much it costs, and we practice transparent financial reporting so donors know how their dollars are spent.'
'ProPublica was founded in 2007-2008 with the belief that investigative journalism is critical to our democracy. Our staff remains dedicated to carrying forward the important work of exposing corruption, informing the public about complex issues, and using the power of investigative journalism to spur reform.' Link to more information is below.
https://www.propublica.org/
Propublica has been doing investigative reporting for a very long time, and is an important source for many of the stories that make it to MSM.
You’re absolutely right, they do, but they both sides things as well, and amplify some right wing voices that I wish they wouldn’t.
KR, we feel alike. My emphasis is that journalism is necessary; facts are crucial, and that even journalists, teachers, nurses...aren't 'perfect'.
"Freedom of the press is not just important to democracy, it is democracy."
-Walter Cronkite
ALL BLESSINGS ! and KUDOS ! to DR HEATHER COX RICHARDSON !! and HER Gracious Husband !
Professor Richardson is doing an excellent job of getting the word out. Democrats are fortunate to have her on our side. It takes courage to write about the authoritarians seeking to dismantle our democracy.
She has not the audience of Fox and clones
True. Well then, let's bombard our senators and congress-people with today's column — actually, those of both parties; and those of us who can, advertise it. The fact of a GOP-supported plan to create a dictatorship, to dismantle our democracy, must become our rallying cry, publicly ubiquitous and unavoidable; the substance of a question posed to every Republican candidate. Mass-send it to all we know — friend-risky as that may be, it pales compared to John Lewis's courage, fortitude and his final request that we "Get in good trouble, necessary trouble, and redeem the soul of America."
I try, will try harder. Been risking family and friendships since W/Dickie. Now they are as rare as hen’s teeth
Ditto here. To be honest, I was writing to myself as well. Time to ante up on my beliefs.
GOD ! Has BLESSED, The Late, JOHN LEWIS ! and may those Blessings, CONTINUE ! For His FAMILY !
Beautifully said; and from the heart. May we all aspire to incorporate his values and insight into our daily lives — and actions!
I tell as many people as I can about her.
So do I and I’m Canadian (Montreal, Quebec).
Anyone know what if anything Fox is saying about this?
She doesn't need them. And she is not the only one writing about these issues. There is, beyond our silo if we bother to look, a massive resistance building.
I may be guilty of a lot, but not looking is not one of them. Been scanning the horizon for decades, as Texas has been hijacked by Goebbels wannabes
I certainly hope so. But so far our "noise" sounds like a whisper to me. What do you think?
Yes, so happy found HCR and keeps me more informed along with Thom Hartmann, however, they are usually singing to the choir but so glad I am part of their choir. They need to get national attention but billionaire press won't allow it. Where are the millionaire dems???????????????????????//
Yes! And Joyce Vance's Civil Discourse!
https://open.substack.com/pub/joycevance?r=36jrg&utm_medium=ios
I LOVE Joyce Vance!
And she knows just when to offer up those chickens! What great balance: facts, clear analysis and for dessert, sweet humor.
Here, here. I agree 💯
Democrats, and we all need to focus. That, I think, is what liberal, non-dictatorial leadership does. The advantage of dictatorship is only one voice counts. That also the deal-breaker. I think democratic leadership, minor and local or major and national, even international, has to do which clarifying priorities, around which support may or may not gather. Despotism is the one ring to rule them all and must be defeated.
Marlene you are spot on. The Democrats are completely lacking in getting the message out.
While they don’t get the press the Republican clown show does, I don’t agree they are completely lacking. I’m seeing more Democratic messaging than ever before.
There is no question that the GOP own the press.
The expression " closing the barn door after the horse got out" comes to mind regarding the Democrats messaging.
Perfect expression!
They are squeaking through in this awful destructive climate. Clearly, we have people like Dan Goldman and Eric Swalwell plus Stacy Plaskett and most-loved, Jamie Raskin, who speak out. But that’s not enough. It’s up to us to push them to be brave and courageous and LOUD.
AGREED, Marlene ! the number SEVEN !, EXPONETIALY ! LOUD !
Yes they are. James Carville has said this for years.
Two things I can’t comprehend. One, knowing what could be in store for us, why are moderate Republicans in office keeping silent?
Of course, they want to keep their jobs, but what about losing our democracy in favor of, perhaps, authoritarian rule? Are none of them
loyal patriots?
The other is: why are Biden’s poll numbers so low? He is doing a fantastic job under very difficult circumstances. He isn’t a seeker of the limelight, which is a plus. His speeches are impressive, touching on every current point of interest with clarity and forcefulness, as well as emotion. I was especially impressed with his recent speeches in Europe.
Maybe it’s poor polling techniques!
IMHO polling is problematic these days….the way opinions are collected is not necessarily representative of the population. Telephone polls have a hard time maybe due to cell/vs “home” phones & caller ID (are the pollsters clearly identifying themselves as such in the caller ID?). I have, for awhile now, participated in online opinion gathering (YouGov), sometimes political/policy related, but most is product/entertainment/etc. So, is hard to say polls are reliable, and yet they are touted on the MSM w/o giving specifics of the poll (who/where/how many/etc).
We could do a much better job of bringing this to a broader population. Unfortunately the MSM ownership is afraid of losing viewers. I don't watch any "network" TV news. So I would appreciate it if someone could report as to whether today's story has made it there.
ALL DEMS ! Get OFFA Your BUTTS ! Save Your Lives ! ( AND , Your Childrens ) STAND FAST ! and March ! FORWARD !!
Mary, they are no longer "quiet parts!" That's what's terrifying!
Its a double edged sword. Whatever the Dems say, is used against them and sadly medias sound clips are harmful, twisted, misunderstood, etc. I deeply hope that “walking the walk”, creating all the infrastructure and programs that elevate and promote diversity, opportunity, civil liberties and rights in education, wages, health, voting etc. IMPACTS the American citizens to vote blue. This Heritage Society, with 2025 is very sick. The concept of a Christian Patriarchal society is frightening. And by the way... Israel is not too far behind with what Netanyahu is doing.
Following Türkiye’s Erdogan & Hungary’s Orban playbook. Scary and, so far, lauded by many (most?) of those on the farther-right in this country. Both of those countries moving to the far-right.
Mary Hardt says that "the Ukrainians have shown us how to fight for democracy." This would appear to be an Orwellian hallucination. Ukraine is currently being run by a corrupt, oppressive anti-democratic right-wing thug regime. I expanded on my point of view and shared some sources here:
https://substack.com/profile/85178460-john-schmeeckle/note/c-18512637
and here:
https://substack.com/profile/85178460-john-schmeeckle/note/c-17693509
You can always try knitting John. It's very constructive and easy on the mind.
Chris, too funny.
:-)
But he couldn’t spew Schitt, his purpose here, I’m sure
Report expletive trolling
LOL!
I hope that you simply have your head stuck in the sand, as opposed to being a neo-Nazi apologist:
"Neo-Nazis and the Far Right Are On the March in Ukraine"
https://www.thenation.com/article/politics/neo-nazis-far-right-ukraine/
"Five years after the Maidan uprising, anti-Semitism and fascist-inflected ultranationalism are rampant.
"Today, increasing reports of far-right violence, ultranationalism, and erosion of basic freedoms are giving the lie to the West’s initial euphoria. There are neo-Nazi pogroms against the Roma, rampant attacks on feminists and LGBT groups, book bans, and state-sponsored glorification of Nazi collaborators.
"These stories of Ukraine’s dark nationalism aren’t coming out of Moscow; they’re being filed by Western media, including US-funded Radio Free Europe (RFE); Jewish organizations such as the World Jewish Congress and the Simon Wiesenthal Center; and watchdogs like Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch, and Freedom House, which issued a joint report warning that Kiev is losing the monopoly on the use of force in the country as far-right gangs operate with impunity.
"Five years after Maidan, the beacon of democracy is looking more like a torchlight march...."
"I hope that you simply have your head stuck in the sand, as opposed to being a neo-Nazi apologist:"
There you go again John, insulting people who have made a good point that you don't have a good answer for.
Kinda nasty ain't we?
Mike, don't respond: he feeds on that. Report him (the 3 dots on his posts) everytime he gets obnoxious.
Speak for yourself.
Are you sure the reports are not coming out of Florida. It sounds like the actions if Desantos.
Lol, pulling that old source out again? As I said last time you posted this, ad nauseam, yawn.
ALL OF THE ABOVE, John !,, Sounds like FLORIDA ! in the MAKING !
Yes. I guess people on here don't want to hear the truth!
I suppose if our country was invaded as the Ukraine has been you would just surrender. You seem like a peace in our time type of person. If the Ukranian government was made up of right wing thugs as you claim then the Republican party would be supporting them and Tucker Carlson would be spouting how wonderful they are.
You know this - how?
Yes I agree the Ukranians have a corrupt regime.
Oh look! Now we have 2 trolls on Letters from an American!
Part of the infiltration process from those who direct the coup-plotters (federalist and heritage society and fox type BS).
How can this gang of sel-righteous thugs swear to uphold the Constitution when planning to overthrow it? Disqualified immediately.
“What we’re trying to do is identify the pockets of independence and seize them,” said Russell T. Vought, who ran Trump’s Office of Management and Budget and who now advises the right-wing House Freedom Caucus. They envision a “president” who cannot be checked by the Congress or the courts.
" Accustomed to trample on the rights of those around you, you have lost the genius of your own independence, and become the fit subjects of the first cunning tyrant who rises". - Lincoln
THANK YOU!!!
A cunning tyrant who tramples on the rights of others Not Like Themselves seems to be what the MAGAts want.
GREAT QUOTE!
“What we’re trying to do is identify the pockets of independence and seize them,” said Russell T. Vought, who ran Trump’s Office of Management and Budget and who now advises the right-wing House Freedom Caucus. They envision a “president” who cannot be checked by the Congress or the courts.
If this planned Project 2025 goes through, the US will no longer be a government of, by, or for the people; no freedom or independence, and certainly no transparency.
Get out the vote! GOTV! 💙
GOTV and GOTWord. These are classic symptoms of aspiring despotism. We've seen other societies fall.
And how many people die in the process?
But you have all been propagandized about Socialism since God knows when? Any murmurings from the leftist squad in the Democratic party are squashed by the Dems. Bernie was trying to move further to the left BUT what happened? You chose the wrong route.
Who is “you” you’re addressing?
Americans.
Well that was then, this is now. So either get on saving our democracy or troll elsewhere.
Same as then. You call me a troll because you don't like what I said!
Can we stop pussyfooting? Please. The Republican Party, and all organizations and individuals who enable Trumpism, are part of an openly fascist terror organization. The time to shut them down is NOW.
Well, the leader of the American fascist movement could easily be put in jail, seeing as how he's been charged with dozens of felonies. But noooooooo......
Not so easy. Wish it was easier.
Do you believe your Judiciary can/will do this?
I don't believe Garland had plans to do anything until the January 6 committee forced his hand and then we were 2 years out. Jack Smith is doing a great job but he is going to run into a timing issue.
I'm not convinced it will happen.
How will you do this?
How do you propose to do this?
It could have/should have been done at the time of arrest. Suspects who are a danger to society, like trump, aren't generally free pending trial. However, it won't happen now, of course.
The wheels of justice grind exceeding slow, but they grind exceeding fine. Still having faith in the justice system: the DOJ (Jack Smith) and Fani Willis are well aware that the charges against T**** cannot be ignored, and I beilieve they will carry out their duties.
I hope so.
I read some pages of that over 900 pages manifesto before I had to stop. It nauseated me. It’s all about how white people should seize the day in 2025. Bring back Christian values, nuclear families, women stay at home to cook, clean, have kids, etc. I looked at the list of people who helped put this “project” together. It’s pretty alarming to discover their desire to create their perfect little world, under their authority, under their rules. See, this is why I became sick to my stomach.
How about we stop using the word "Christian" and use "religious" instead? Sorry if I've already said this - it seems to have disappeared. I'm cooking a meal at the same time and may not have pushed "Post" because I ran toward the smell of onions about to burn..
And what if we stop calling them “Christian” OR “religious” and call them zealots?
Or "Religious zealots"? I mean, there are lots of zealots around, but this is their particular shtick.
There are sincerely religious people who are not trying to impost their beliefs on others. The constitution provides for freedom of religion, and that is the big reason for separation of state and religion: to prevent any church from imposing their beliefs on everyone else. The word "zeolot" can apply to any rabid belief system. In this case rabid authoritarian capitalists masquerading as a religious group and using the valid beliefs of some people as cover. It is an insult to sincerely religious people to get that mixed up. To be blunt about it, it's another form of bigotry. I'm sorry to have to put it that way, but this confounding of terms is not contributing to clarifying anything.
Good point, Anne-Louise.
Saved! and it was all golden and delicious, comfort food.
Yum! And thank you! There is NOTHING of Christ in their so-called “Christian” values. Christ called on his followers to love one another. No Christ there. No love there.
I appreciate your abhorrence that they use the word "Christian" in their manifesto. For those of us sitting outside the finer delineations of "Christianity" as commonly known, there is no difference. I see churches that do good works. I also see churches that pray for the faggots to die. I see churches that feed and nourish the poor. I also see churches that have ostentatious decoration and close their doors to anyone "different". All are labeled as "Christian" churches.
I get that there is nothing "Christ-like" in the concept of Christian Nationalism. I also see that they use their belief in Christ to justify their doings. It is hard not to view all Christians in the light of their beliefs.
I have a parallel in my life... I have friends and a family member who believe that ACAB* and we should absolutely get rid of law enforcement as it exists. The family member acknowledges that I was never in that category of law enforcement officer, and that I did bring fairness, equity, and compassion to my work. He argues that since I continued to work in that environment, and even though as a trainer in several disciplines (teaching patrol skills and use of force instruction among them) I was still "within a corrupt system."
Do I think that ACAB? No. In fact, I believe that many cops (at least here on the left coast) are good, honest, and ethical people. Not all of them, but certainly some of them. The problem is that we allow them (and their agencies, frankly) to flourish tips the scale towards the ACAB scale. That is hard to argue with.
*ACAB = All Cops Are (Bad or Bastards, depending on perspective).
I agree.
I just can't bring myself to malign entire groups of people based on the actions of some. It doesn't matter who the groups are.
I was raised in the Lutheran church, and I have a lesbian daughter and a trans sister, and two of my dearest pals are a lesbian couple who've been together longer than most straight couples.
I hate the idea that these monsters have hijacked the term "Christian", but this was their intent since the 20s, at least. See the original documentary from the History Channel (when it still WAS history) about how the KKK intentionally entwined itself with the southern church. It's pretty eye-opening.
Anyway, the tl;dr is that many things have been hijacked by ugly people spreading ugly ideas. Norse history and also Christianity come to mind.
I hate it too, but there it is: it happened.
Anne-Louise, the description of "Christian" or "religious" is very disturbing to me....better "mindless followers" devoid of any true faith...having it replaced by AUTHORITARIANISM....all moving this country straight to hell!!! This is what happens when humans refuse to think for themselves.
Anyone should be able to observe that the Republican Party HAS LOST ITS WAY or IS REVEALING IT'S TRUE COLORS. The gods they worship are POWER, MONEY, and CONTROL. Do they care about the disruption of our country or the world....NO!!! Do they care about "BUILDING BACK anything BETTER? NOOOOOOO!
We can no longer be respected by the world if our people are not able to discern the destruction of our democracy. Already President Biden has been asked by our allies if we can be trusted ....what might happen if he is no longer President? It is not only America but the world that will be affected if authoritarianism wins.
So true, Emily. Matthew 7 13:14.
THANK YOU ! Anne Louise ! GODS WORD !, is Sure ! GOD ! Cannot LIE !! We All , NEED to Hang on ! TO FAITH ! and PRAY ! Consistantly ! BLESSINGS !
Emily, I understand what you and other commenters are getting at regarding painting a group with a big-brush-definition. My only observation on this is that THEY THEMSELVES call it that way….have said they are hoping to establish a White Christian Nationalists country…. IMHO down through the ages (AC), the term “Christian” has been co-opted and bent & mangled to fit a wholly unsuited philosophies/actions. Maybe they should be called “Xhristian’s” instead, because they cross-X-out the teachings the man himself shared & died for.
Barbara, I am a person of faith because Christ "spoke to my heart" and the first time....I said, " No! are you kidding me......I have just approached the age and have the opportunity to be my most rebellious....."(now Barbara, as the old hymn states, THIS is My story...) Later on in my rebellion, He came to me again through a Christian group who were at my college campus sharing music and testimonies. My friends kept encouraging me to attend....finally on their last evening at the amphitheater on my college campus, I could not say "No" ....it was the personal testimonies that overcame me....and in the old fashioned way Christians refer to this experience is that "I surrendered my life to Christ and spiritually, I received the Holy Spirit." The next morning I found a Bible in the
grass. The words written in the front were:"I was given this Bible, now I am giving it to you...." Well, God does take care of His young lambs.....
Barbara, I told my mom....she said "Don't tell anyone!" I went to the church beside the college I attended. The Paster was standing on the steps...I thought, I can worship here! BUT when I told the Pastor I had just received
Christ....instead of offering a class or making an encouraging comment he said, "you have pretty eyes!!!!" What a sad and terrible thing for me to hear....I was numb.....these responses were NOT anything like I was expecting or what I needed . So my relationship with Christ was filled with lonliness and many ups and downs.....but through all of my wrong choices and struggles, my faith did not leave me and years later I was able to receive great teaching from
Christians who were "true and faithful and the most giving and caring humanbeings I will ever know." So Barbara...not everyone is a Christian who says that they are...even if they attend church and serve on every committee and vote for every Republican and teach Sunday School. And it is not my responsibility to judge but it is my responsibility to keep trudging on "until I am truly home".And I am far from perfect but you know only "sinners" can be saved so I am still fighting that battle on this earth...I just have the power of a loving, encouraging and forgiving with God as my strength and by my side. That is my story and I'm sticking to it!!
As Christians....as Americans of faith OR AMERICANS OF NO FAITH>>>OR OF DIFFERENT FAITHS.....we must stand for what we believe to be true. We must be wise and discerning or our hearts and minds will be captured and used by persons pretending they are something or someone they are not!!! I know what that is like too...I was in a cult for several years......well yes, I made a bad choice and chose to accept wrong teaching but I saw individuals change and stop destructive habits. I saw them accept the wheelchair bound and place them in important positions of service....I saw them take people off the streets and give them clothes and responsibility and even teeth which they had lost from having no one to help or encourage them. This WAS a CULT. I was fortunate enough to find this kind of joy and love in giving and in friendships in a genuine church family once...not in all churches unfortunately.
So Barbara....I get the Christian labeling problem. Watch for those who live their faith. A person's life will prove it. I have personally become more and more observant....as I search for love in action....the kind that doesn't need praise.
People who are like the One who gave up His life for us ....Who gave His blood to cover sins we could never be completely free of.....that kind of God...that kind of Savior.
Yes. They want to return to the 1950s. White women in their shining new kitchens, children at their skirts, while Black women clean their houses, and Black men tend their yards.
J. Nol, these men are a part of a fantasy world. Women were fighting during WW1 and WW2. Women were working in factories building ammunitions, etc. Women were working as nurses and reporters. Women were doing the farming while their husbands and sons were fighting wars....some came home....some did not.
White women and all women and men of color have done their part for this country since its inception.
I think you are comparing real life to TV programs or movies.
After WWII, women who had formerly been working in factories and as auxiliary personnel in the war effort were all told to go back to their kitchens, so that the men could go back to work. Government policies supported white men going to work, buying houses through cheap mortgages, while denying the same to black men and women. It was no accident that the TV shows depicted the "ideal nuclear family" since it reflected those policies. During the 50s consumerism started to reign, encouraging the gender dichotomy for white people, while black people could usually only find work involving supporting those white families. See "The Help". which was set in the 60s, but gives an idea of what black people were up against. I also recommend Mad Men as a good depiction of that time and beyond.
I think J Nol is describing the fever dream of many MAGAs - their rosy view of a world where white men ruled and women+POC were subservient. The goals of the GOP are not a return to history as it was (although the description certainly did apply to many (my educated, White, middle class family included) but a world they imagine as Nirvana.
The part about women staying home seems to assume that it is still possible to raise a family on one income. Men would somehow need to be paid much better than most of them are these days. Ask them how that would work in practical terms. And if women did not work outside the home, would there be enough men to fill all the jobs? Ask about the practicalities.
900 pages. Wow, that’s a lot of pages. I guess we are supposed to be impressed by nonsense if it runs to 900 pages. Notwithstanding the evil of it.
The fever dream is devoid of practicalities.
Now isn't the time to throw away the towel and quit! We must vote conquer this election in 24.
Let's call this what it is: the most venal and stupid among us attempting to mould our government in their own image:
A Kakistocracy.
Exactly. And Rachel Maddow led with the story of the nineteen attorneys general who have sent a letter to Biden asking to obtain the medical records of their residents who have traveled out of state to obtain reproductive health care that is banned in their state. They claim they have the authority to get those private records: it's apparently already been done to those who attended Vanderbilt University - where records were given up with no warning to those patients. We are well on our way to a fascist, totalitarian, "Christian" autocracy. I fear for my grandchildren.
I have been struck by these stories on disclosures of health records on several major media outlets (CBS, NBC, PBS) without a single mention of HIPAA (Healthcare Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) under which aegis anyone in healthcare has had to function! There have been dire consequences built right into the major electronic note systems (e.g.- EPIC) for reporting anyone even looking at patient medical records without formally being on the care team for that patient. Violating HIPAA has been a grounds for loss of one's medical license.
Exactly. It’s like HIPPA doesn’t exist on these states! And no one is mentioning it.
James, JohnM and Helen: I agree! I haven't heard any reporting mentioning these offenses as HPPA violations. How can they not be?
IT, comes Down to ENFORCING the LAW, on Record, THEN ! FOLL0WING THROUGH ! ( THAT !, sure is HAPPENING ! at THIS TIME ! tsk tsk ! )
I’ve only heard about this on various podcasts but I was struck by the apparent lack of even a discussion by Vanderbilt with their attorneys about this...where was their outrage?! Where was their concern for the patients? I don’t get it
John M, thank you! I’ve been a health information management professional for 43 years, and while watching Maddow Monday night I kept asking the TV, “but what about HIPAA?!” HIPAA privacy rules have bound us in the medical world since 1996. If I recall correctly, though, HIPAA has some exclusions for law enforcement purposes. I never paid attention to that before because I thought I didn’t live in a police state. Foolish of me, as I’m a Floridian, where the rental car got on the toll road of autocracy a while ago. (Just trying to update the metaphor a little from the train.)
Ok, you prompted me to go to the HHS website. I’m not reading this closely but I would think the “minimum necessary” part of the privacy rule would preclude the state from arbitrarily poking into women’s records to see if they went to New York for a termination of pregnancy. But I don’t know for sure. How much interference into our private lives are we willing to allow? https://www.hhs.gov/hipaa/for-professionals/faq/505/what-does-the-privacy-rule-allow-covered-entities-to-disclose-to-law-enforcement-officials/index.html
The US Department of Health and Human Services is evaluating a proposed rule that would prevent states from obtaining private health information “for a criminal, civil, or administrative investigation into or proceeding against any person in connection with seeking, obtaining, providing, or facilitating reproductive health care … outside of the state where the investigation or proceeding is authorized” and “is lawful in the state where it is provided.”
Republican Attorneys General are trying to stop AG Becerra from implementing the rule. Alan Unell, from whom this action comes, has more in his newsletter. Let’s read his short explainer and then fight back.
How? Let’s send an email to Secretary Becerra at xavier.becerra@hhs.gov and say something like the below:”
https://open.substack.com/pub/chopwoodcarrywaterdailyactions/p/chop-wood-carry-water-717?r=fqsxl&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=email
I should have just read onto your post, Kathy, instead of trying to figure out the HIPAA question on my own. Thank you!
TN’s AG is an activist Christofascist.
Me, too-for so many reasons. Me, too. 😞
Don't have fear. Vote!!!!
SADLEY Nothing is SECURE ! ANYMORE ! In 1970, The Military Machine, Gave Us, Our new Military I D Numbers : IT !,, WAS My SOCIAL SECURETY NUMBER ! ALL ! the CATS !, are OUTTA The BAG !, from That POINT, FORWARD !!
literally
Well written, Heather! It’s all damn scary. But what will an authoritarian President Trump do to destroy the world order while he is busy destroying American democracy? Americans need to understand that if Trump gets in office, WW3 will not be far behind. Napoleon had his Waterloo, but democracy will never recover if Trump is re-elected. The stakes and weapons are far more destructive.
The potential for unprecedented misery, perhaps extinction, is certainly there. In some ways it's good that Trump is such an opportunist; if he gets the power, he will want to protect his own behind, his toys and his adoring chorus, so he may try to avoid compete disaster. But he is also such a fool.
He should be sectioned for being insane and a threat to the whole country and world. He really is a madman.
My friend says we will never be free of him until he dies. I am thinking she may be on to something!
And then he will become a martyr.
LET McDonalds ( PUN !) Force FEED ! HIM His BIGMACS ! ( Internal HEART HEMORAGE ! , COMIN ` ON ! )
J L Graham, I have concluded that calling tfg a “fool” is misleading. In 2015, when he first descended the golden escalator in all that reality-tv-hype, I, too, called him a “fool”. I was absolutely convinced he would be squashed by the American Public’s expectations of presidential candidates. When he revealed himself to be an opportunist shapeshifter, I no longer called him a “fool”. Some people are brilliant physicists, novelists, chefs, etc. tfg is brilliant at being a narsissist. And being a brilliant narsissist, you are the perfect tool for nefarious controlling powers. He also has torch-lighted the authoritarian path for other tools with less natural narsissistic tendencies. He’s given them a roadmap, a model, and courage to return us to the robber-baron past, with all its racist, workers-are-serfs, misogynistic, faux-christian-values. We should be horribly alarmed. We should dislike him. We should demand the dissolution of his political/cultural control. He is many things, but “fool” is not doing it for me anymore.
Narsissist Fool = ANTICHRIST . ( LORD !, Have MERCY ! , for ME ! ) Thank You ! MILGRIMI !
It is often noted by psychologists that those with antisocial personality disorder (sociopaths) are often perceived as "charismatic" by many. My guess is that there is no one like a "Mr. Hyde" to know the buttons to push to bring out the "Mr. Hyde" in human nature. We are all self-serving, self-protective of necessity, but most aim to temper our selfishness with empathy into "enlightened self-interest", some facing death to prevent harm to others. I am just speculating here, but I think that those who are taught from birth that they are inherently better than others (and believe it) have limited capacity for empathy. The story of America is a confluence of many differing themes, but among those are slavery and genocide. Similar stories can be found around the globe.
So yes, Trump is brilliant as a con man, and has been as long as I have been aware of him; celebrated by the media since he conned others into renovating NYC's Wollman skating rink without pay, and then hogged all the credit for the achievement. Trump, like Reagan, has been expert at totally playing the media, and when accused of wrongdoing, just brazening it out. He is also a puerile fool, and that has made him somewhat less dangerous than a smoother criminal. His tantrums are gifts to those seeking his prosecution, and may yet wear down his welcome in the court of public opinion. That said, be remains dangerous, but watch out of the emergence of more cunning tyrants.
My point above is that Trump is an opportunist and not a fanatic, and probably would not deliberately destroy the world given power to do so, but he is also clumsy enough to start WWIII, which would likely wipe out his "kingdom", without really meaning to.
Yes, JL, those “cunning tyrants”—likely backed by big dark money interests—waiting in the shadows for the right moment to step into power. If they are at all charismatic and sing the dog-whistle tunes, they may become the new pied-piper to follow to the new “promised land”. Sigh, re-reading what I wrote sounds like a conspiracy theory; I do attempt to vet issues like “dark money sources” and far-right ideologies, etc., via trusted, responsible sources but it all sounds so crazy, I sometimes wonder. No surprise some folks just check-out from all the madness!
Agreed. And you remind me that one of the founding impulses of our country was monied, self-interest. The founding “fathers” certainly wanted to stand equal to the king. But they did not necessarily approve of including “every man”, and especially NOT women. Not when you look at the original constitution. Those impulses are ever ripe, and once again being harvested to leverage the duplicity, but not the spirit of the constitution.
It seems to me that the founders had a lot of liberating ideas, but were woefully selective in how they applied them. Yet I think that the theoretical underpinnings of our Constitution and governmental infrastructure have proved for the most part to be invested by successive generations with a push toward broader liberation, a trend that the current crop of MAGA justices are trying to claw back. Politics is fundamentally about whose will prevails, and some always want to lord it over others, as you will see in the average schoolyard; but that gets ugly fast. We as a society have an interest in regulating harmful impacts of irresponsible behaviors upon others, as well as flat out predation, but not to mess with other's different yet harmless pursuits of happiness.
Very well put, J L Graham. Time and experience has given us an interesting lens to view the actions of the founders. Do you feel like the gop are believing they’re imminently close to achieving their decades long efforts to destroy the New Deal/Great Society changes, that the “normal” gop are just holding on during the last bumpy bit of the ride? (And believe that attaining the claw-back will come with no backlash?). So many GOP are radio-silent during the greatest political/cultural upheaval in decades. Their silence seems more than just “afraid of their violent base”. (Although, that may be an additional reason). I keep feeling like “Operation Hoodwink” is close to being fully realized, and each gop member doesn’t want to be the rat who snitches and jumps ship. They would face treason-level vigilante blowback from their fellow party supporters. But if it doesn’t come to pass, they just go on as normal because the Dems won’t effectively hold them accountable. (Sorry, J L for holding you hostage to this thread of pondering)
He will enable every insane cretin that he can find, and/or be used by every insane cretin to do their bidding.
He will absolutely align with Putin! Against the American majority's wishes. I agree; more is at stake in 2024 than just us. Time for another Daisy Ad??
How many will continue to support these designs to reshape what has been a democracy into a dictatorship? That many of these anti-democratic thinkers and influencers are more and more openly stating their goals, even giving interviews, is terrifying. Using tropes to anger,and incite hatred and distrust, they can motivate many to support their plans. All the good news about Biden's achievements may be too easily overshadowed by this bilious hatred, this desire for a white, racist society that ironically will have not a scintilla of Christianity in it.
I'm glad they're being open about it. Millions of apathetic Americans need a wakeup call.
The question is do many voters really understand the stakes? I sure hope something will shake them out of their apathy. If this doesn't.....
I see it not as apathy or complacency but fear. Change is happening @ an accelerating rating, the ground is moving so fast. Christian Nationalism dogma is offering a life raft of certainty & anything counter to their beliefs threatens to punch holes in that raft.
Great analogy, Carole.
Carole, add to that the existential fear facing humankind (and the species and ecosystems we share the Earth with) and unless it galvanizes folks to act & to the polls to vote, it might just dispirit them into an “it won’t matter” apathetic mindset. Yes, we squabble politics, memes and cultural issues while we do not attend—post haste, all hands on deck, 4-alarm-code-red—to the glaring emergency facing us. I hope the young come out in droves to slap down (metaphorically) the deniers/resisters/authoritarians. Fingers crossed. I know I will.
Most R extremist I know are deniers of climate change. Especially evangelist . More clinging to the life raft of their belief system & god will fix it or the rapture is coming .
This is a harsh comment (and I don’t really mean it, but the snarky part of my brain is writing it anyway): I have read about those that believe in the end-times as a god-related punishment & those true believers will “raptured” and taken up to, what, heaven? Well, perhaps if THEY who believe this would offer themselves up to depart in lieu of others who will perish due to human inaction on the climate crisis then we could reduce the human load on the Earth and spare the (mostly poor) others. Question is, how many of those folks who believe this are there? I hazard it is a small, but loud, minority.
Carole, WE Know, christian Nationalism, is a ABSOLUTE FALSE Doctrine ! Stand FAST ! , in FAITH !
Perhaps apathy is reinforced by the feeling that the christian nationalists offer a not too different future for apathetic white people. Do they really care if things are fair for others? Their friends and family are saying “No”. Why should they go against the flow of their social circle. That takes effort and courage. We scream that things will get really bad for everyone. But they see the vision of good white schools, clean white swimming pools, safe, white neighborhoods, white butts in white church pews as comforting. Why would they want to ask, “But what about all the others?”
You never ask questions when God's on your side. But even the Bible challenges that assumption.
IN The Judgment, ALL Of US ! INDIVIDUALLY, Will Receive the PROPER ! REWARD, According, to HIS COMMANDMENTS !
Carmen, ITS GOING TO take a Number 9 EarthQuake !, to WAKE UP a LOT, of DEAD MANKIND ! ( LORD ! , INTERVENE ! )
Let's hope those apathetic Americans really care about it. I know a lot of people who just don't give a damn.
Or are mentally trapped by injunctions against raising fundamental questions. Racism and slavery, the subjugation of women in the society, and the "pathology" of being gay was one largely considered "normal", the way of things, even in my lifetime. Not that those things are gone, but diminished over all and and now more widely seen as inimical to social justice. That took and continues to require a protracted and intense focus on the disconnect between what we hypothetically like to think is justice and how that perception is warped by hubris, prejudice, and untempered self-interest.
Millions of Americans (74 million to be exact) are viewing what the Professor has reported on today as what they so desperately want, not as something that will destroy our country.
More frighteningly, how many will dismiss this blatant revelation of Republican plans and just say “oh, this can’t happen here”?
Most frightening is that so many of the MAGAts want it. Desperately.
It deliberately induced "road rage" thinking in which noting else matters, even disaster, so long as my will prevails.
MLM, probably about the same number who thought he would never be elected. We CANNOT let down our guard.
"Big Lies" are far more virulent than most seem to appreciate. Even many Republicans were troubled by Nixon's behavior, which now is dwarfed by the lies and treachery of the whole Republican party. We seem to have let our guard down.
JL, it just occurred to me that the current iteration of Republicans remind me of sheep or lemmings (group think), while the Dems remind me of individuals who CHOOSE align with each other (and challenge each other too) as a collective, not a herd.
I think the "GOP" has become a full fledged cult. I think we all are vulnerable to a bit of cult dynamics in our group behaviors, but a an all-consuming cult deliberately attacks and blocks any error-checking, and makes membership contingent on full acceptance of an ideology that might easily be preposterous and/or ethically vile.
Interesting to me how, at least observing from the outside, Republicans fall in line w/o question (or they keep their questions to themselves, or quietly among themselves in back rooms) to support the party line du jour. To me, that’s the sometime frustrating reality of many (most?) Dems….we question and prod our own positions….slows things down, sure, but think it delivers better results in the long run. Just a thought….
Carmen, the probability that they will not only continue to support these designs, but will actively seek them out is high. The MAGAts in my world of retired cops believe with all their hearts that everything that this "takeover" that HCR reports on is what is going on with the Biden administration right now.. Biden is the one who is trying to consolidate power. Biden is the one who wants to weaponize agencies against them. As one of them told me once "everything you believe about us, we believe about you."
Of course the difference is that their is so much evidence that they are doing it and none that Biden is doing it. It's like a religion to them. It doesn't require proof.
I have read that a tactic of pickpockets caught in the act is to yell "Thief Thief" and slip away in the confusion.
This is the most astonishing thing to me! I remember having a discussion with a Republican co-worker in 2011, when I was still working, and he said something about Obama and the Democrats trying to do some crazy, power-grabbing stuff. I was flabbergasted, and said to him "We think the same thing about Republicans!". He was just as astonished as I am every time I'm brought up against this!
HOW IN TF did we manage to get to this place???? (rhetorical)
Karen ! It Seems that a lot, of Folks, DONT WANT To BELIEVE, that this is ALL, a PART ! , of GODS PLAN !! The PROOF, of HIS WORD ! Is on Our EARS, & IN OUR EYES ! DAYLEY ! MANKIND ! , PLEASE ! WAKE UP !!
The first 3/4 of this letter, in my opinion, makes it the most frightening one to date. I’m very thankful for the last part of the letter.
The authoritarian plan described above creates heart thumping fear in me!
Thank you Heather.
It puzzles me why people think DeSantis is a buffoon. He is an effective Facist that has bulldozed the state of Florida in a very short period of time.
I read the NY Times story yesterday knowing full well this is the definitive gameplan for Trump and the Republican Party. It is not a pipe dream of the few crazy MAGA'S. This our future. They aren't kidding.
If by some miracle Biden wins this upcoming election and the Republicans are unsuccessful in slanting the outcome, we will only have 4 years of sanity.
Frankly, if we call what we are living now sanity, we really need to adjust our expectations. This constant baseball bat that is held over our heads by the GOP is really getting old.
Be safe. Be well.
Yes, maybe it was days in the making, but the PBS News Hour spent way too long talking about the possible effects of a third party last night.
There is not one good aspect that could come out of a 3rd Party in this election cycle.
Totally agree.
We get caught up in our derision of those with whom we disagree (or know to be evil) and that derision keeps us from decerning their meaningful attributes and defeating their strategies. We fail in our derision to see the brilliance of their acts because we want goodness and honesty to be only held in common by people we consider intellegent or gifted. I thought him unbelievably stupid, when in fact he is remarkably cunning and believable to so many who follow flash and gilt. I think these derisions are the distractions in a grif of my creation; at least if measured by the amount of energy I give to proving him stupid, evil, bad, anti-American, a Fascist, dispecible.
Completely agree Fred.
Well said, Linda. Now that the quiet parts are being said aloud, maybe some action will be sparked. My warning is that their goals in Project 2025 are what they accuse the Biden administration of at every turn. Their sky is a different color.
I hope you are well. And safe.
Hi Ally. I think you are on to something. They are finally discussing their diabolical plan in full view. This eliminates hearsay.
What I have read about Project 2025, they are absolutely living in an alternate universe, where up is down and down is up.
I do think the uncomfortable silence from the Republicans speaks volumes.
Have a great night and be well Ally !
Important and insightful. Thank you Heather. Pro-democracy members of Congress (provided they have voter support in the 2024 election cycle) should consider authoring, supporting, and passing comprehensive legislation geared toward the strengthening of voting rights, the elimination of gerrymandering, the expansion of SCOTUS, anti-corruption and insider trading initiatives, and the protection of federal pro-democracy institutions. While state governments pass a national popular vote compact to effectively render the electoral college a useless artifact of a racist history.
Ahhh that is "the trick" George, to swing popular opinion esp among "independents" to realize how serious a threat the GOP has become to a multi-ethnic, multi-devotional, tolerant of social diversities, supportive of broad economic support to needing individuals, not unlike the kind of support long since provided to other economic enterprises which have been used to create and maintain a wealth class. Everyone benefits, including if not especially the already-rich.
Re: Professor Richardson's obervation:
"Behind this initiative is “Project 2025,” a coalition of more than 65 right-wing organizations putting in place personnel and policies to recommend not just to Trump, but to any Republican who may win in 2024. Project 2025 is led by the Heritage Foundation, once considered a conservative think tank, that helped to lead the Reagan revolution."
I have some thoughts on what a response (counter-offensive) to Project 2025 might look like:
It should now be self-evident that our government is vulnerable to attack and/or control by a small minority of committed internal actors. Much of our vulnerability appears to flow directly from structural flaws in our 'rules of law.' Indeed, many maintain that at least some of those 'flaws' were created by the founders with the intention of facilitating control by a minority of elite, white, men.
It should also, by now, be self-evident that responding to the radical right and their weaponised 'issue' collaborators* with rational arguments is woefully ineffective and any success depends on the integrity of the voter registration and election systens which are also under attack.
We lack a clear voice to articulate the flaws and suggest corrections. And while there are a few gifted spokespersons among our legislators, they have, as a body, been unable to gain wide traction and gain commitment to a path forward. The fact that neither the legislative or executive branchs have made any progress against our horror-show Supreme Court is only one example of this void.
Unfortunately, the Federalist Society and Heritage Foundation provide examples of how this voice might function -- except the defense of democracy counter-offensive would be fueled by the power of truth and principle; not by capital which fuels Project 2025.
I sense a glimmer of such a voice in at least two places: the SistersInLaw (incuding Prof. Joyce Vance) and the small group of scholars and historians that meet with President Biden (incuding Prof. Richardson).
I have no idea how such a voice would form or function, but it seems clear that it is essential to have if we are ever to "herd the cats" making up the majority of Americans desparate to save democracy.
* Weaponised 'issue' collaborators are, for example: radical evangelicals, white nationalists, anti-semites, anti-vaxers, book burners, and anti-'wokesters' etc.
So... "Conservative" means "Smash it all".
And "Christian" means "Whatever I want it to mean this morning... this afternoon... this moment".
Delirium.
They are going all out to turn us into a Christian autocracy, opposition by most of the population be damned. People have become too complacent, too blinkered to any thought that - it could happen here. It’s described in a play written in the 30s and any concern was rejected by conservatives back in the days of Hitler
Not much authentically Christian about it. That's just part of the Orwellian camouflage they dress their aggressive plays for despotism with. "Freedom", justice, accountability, patriotism, family values, citizens united, etc. etc. are all just flimsy cover for some very ugly aspirations for total despotic control.
What I think happens is that people who go to certain churches all hear the same political messages and associate it with "Christianity." Mass propaganda via religion.
I have long thought that what is labeled "Christianity" is a vast grab bag of disparate beliefs, including introjects by tyrants claiming "divine" authority. Gandhi said that he admired our Christ but not our Christians. We wind up with those claiming to be "Christian" promoting diametrically opposed behaviors. Not to say that I find no wisdom in the Bible, but it seems to be something of a grab-bag as well, especially in the hands of those with supremacist agendas.
We really messed up as a country by not enforcing the separation of church and state early on. Every single church that decided to get involved in politics should have lost their tax exemption, but it would have been "tricky to do" and "hard to do", so it didn't happen.
I have been told directly by some "fundamentalists" ( a serious misnomer in my opinion) that they aim to convert the USA to a "theocracy". History has been there and done that, and it did not work out so well; thus US separation of church and state. That unholy union corrupts both the church and the state.
They holler about the Constitution, but don’t seem to have read or understood it….for cryin’ out loud, the separation of Church/State is in the first—the #1!!!!—amendment—even BEFORE their (misinterpreted IMHO) cherished 2nd amendment! Sigh.
They also officially proclaimed that the Jan 6th insurrection was "ordinary citizens engaged in legitimate political discourse" They don't interpret, they just lie.
With god on their side, they can do no wrong. Soldiers of the righteous! Non believers, (or the gullible) be damned! We all are familiar with the disgraceful programming, mind controlled victims and/or sex scandals, pyramid schemes of unabashed self enrichment rocking so many congregations and its leaders. Simply, when belief "trumps" reason, we all suffer at the hands of self serving charlatans. Hence the wisdom of early framers of the constitution.
Pseudo-religion, the perfect niche for what had been failed politicians.
Agree. It’s sad how many people are conned by this
Autocracy offers certainty, security against change
So does death, reliably.
Carole, I have posted on LFAA before links to the medical studies of the identifiable hardwired brainwave differences between those who lean conservative vs liberal (loosely defined). There are several out there on the ‘net (respected sources) if you choose to inquire…explains a lot & tells me the ‘twain ain’t gonna meet. Brings to mind Dylan lyrics “you were right from your side, I was right from mine”….don’t know if there is a solution to this, other than to agree to compromise (as if!).
I’m m not sure about your premise. Autocracies have a habit of disappearing people off the street for seemingly minor incursions
Yeah, and I gather don’t stand anywhere near an open window unless it’s on the ground floor…..
My premise is where people are in their endorsements of Christian Nationalism/fascists. The reality of such a government would be a rude & sad awakening. To me it seems the right now is the safety of tell me what to do & what to think
There is nothing Christian about an "autocracy".