'The American Families Plan, an investment in our kids, our families, and our economic future'
Please read this plan. if you want to be excited about the future; if you want your families to be secure and hopeful; if you want to be proud to be an American; if you want to live in a vibrant democracy; if you are ready to be even more enthusiastic because you have great news to tell everyone, PLEASE READ THIS PLAN, (see the link below).
Here are just a few details and headlines:
'Add at least four years of free education. Investing in education is a down payment on the future of America. As access to high school became more widely available at the turn of the 20th Century, it made us the best-educated and best-prepared nation in the world. But everyone knows that 13 years is not enough today. The American Families Plan will make transformational investments from early childhood to postsecondary education so that all children and young people are able to grow, learn, and gain the skills they need to succeed. It will provide universal, high quality preschool to all three- and four- year-olds. It will provide Americans two years of free community college. It will invest in making college more affordable for low- and middle-income students, including students at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), Tribal Colleges and Universities (TCUs), and institutions such as Hispanic-serving institutions, Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander-serving institutions, and other minority-serving institutions (MSIs). And, it will invest in our teachers as well as our students, improving teacher training and support so that our schools become engines of growth at every level.'
'Provide direct support to children and families. Our nation is strongest when everyone has the opportunity to join the workforce and contribute to the economy. But many workers struggle to both hold a full-time job and care for themselves and their families. The American Families Plan will provide direct support to families to ensure that low- and middle-income families spend no more than seven percent of their income on child care, and that the child care they access is of high-quality. It will also provide direct support to workers and families by creating a national comprehensive paid family and medical leave program that will bring America in line with competitor nations that offer paid leave programs.'
ADD AT LEAST FOUR YEARS OF FREE PUBLIC EDUCATION, CLOSE EQUITY GAPS, AND MAKE COLLEGE MORE AFFORDABLE
UNIVERSAL PRE-SCHOOL FOR ALL THREE- AND FOUR-YEAR-OLDS
FREE COMMUNITY COLLEGE AND OTHER POSTSECONDARY EDUCATION INVESTMENTS
In a contest of intelligence and will between Pelosi and McConnell, McConnell has to do a lot better than bringing a pillow to a gunfight. Pelosi is smarter and has just as much determination as McConnell. McConnell may be a Sith lord but the Force is strong with Pelosi.
Bruce, Your comparison here between Pelosi and McConnell caught by mind with its drama and imagery. One of the most compelling reads for me recently was a transcript of Ezra Klein's podcast with Ari Berman, an expert on voting suppression bills called The Republican Long Game to Steal Democracy. It is clear and dense with thought. I hope that you find it worthwhile. The link is below:
I completely agree. I regularly follow Ezra Klein and had read and listened to this. My mornings would not be complete without my immersing myself in the daily edition of The NY Times to which I have been a subscriber since being 10 years old, now over 60 years.
While I applaud this plan, I am disappointed that the emphasis here on funding 2 years of post-secondary education either does not explicitly include "the trades" (an expert service worker is fixing my washing machine as I write) or minimizes it, perhaps including it under "or certificate." Reading "Head, Hand, Heart" by David Goodhart (I HIGHLY recommend this book) has substantiated my conviction that the USA is losing out by not valuing the trades, not providing apprenticeships, and not valuing the gifts of folks who "work with their hands and heart." If these programs are included, it should be outlined in this White House document. Our democracy depends on it.
I have been working with another forum and OAC focusing on education issues. Vocational ed… the trades.. bring a stronger picture, plan, and path for students in middle school and high school to follow and to prepare for that post secondary route.
I am confident a growing focus and support will be there. So glad you brought it up MaryPat. Let’s follow that thread as infrastructure details get more in place.
Thank you, MaryPat, for wanting to include the trades. My husband is one such, and is damned good at it; in fact, he's damned good at most all of it, though he doesn't touch electric! His head is pretty up there, too, as well as his heart. (OMG, I sound like a female chauvinist!)
Could not agree more. It's impossible to get anyone in to do a repair and has been for years now. The trades are hard work but absolutely necessary; they haven't gotten the status they deserve and need to attract young people to them.
Thanks, MaryPat! Needs to be right alongside "2 years of post-secondary." I assumed that is what it refers to, however, b/c many tech schools, community colleges are 2-year programs, or thereabouts. Where would we be with out those electricians, plumbers, and HVAC people in our houses every day! Yikes!
Thank you. My inspiration came from the American Families Plan. While reading the plan this morning, it was as though the sun was rising on America. It would change the country the way the New Deal did. I hope that you read it, Joe. The Families Plan must happen. We have to make it so.
TAX REFORM THAT REWARDS WORK – NOT WEALTH…What is the incentive for those then to invest and hire your kids? Or is the plan to have them all work for? The plan is a tax on your and my kids futures. Big taxes, huge government, huge debt, anti growth, and anti jobs and capital.
David, people (and corporations) must pay their fair share in taxes. We are where we are because 40 years ago Republicans set us on a course degradation and destruction of infrastructure, both physical and human. I don't understand how you can honestly believe that those who make more shouldn't contribute more. You state that the AFP is anti growth and anti jobs, that there will be no incentive to hire our kids, that it will be a burden. Look around you, David, our country is falling apart, physically and socially. Republicans have pushed us into a gutter. If our kids are uneducated and unhealthy, who's going to hire them anyway?
Daria. What is fair share. What do the bottom 50% of Americans pay in Federal taxes? What does the top 5% pay. IRS #. The bottom 50 % pay 3%. Top 5% pay 60%. Fact. Don’t you all just want more and the other guy to pay? What is enough? Demonizing and virtue signaling will not pay for the crazed Biden plan. In the end everyone will pay. Everyone. https://www.dailysignal.com/wp-content/uploads/FBIP-SOCIAL-04.jpg
You forget to mention who pays all the taxes that hit consumption, work related charges etc. One-sided, incomplete arguments are not particularly persuasive. Of course everyone will pay the bi-partisan Biden Infrastucture deal, that's normal in a democratic society....but each according to their means.
Exactly. Good point. When the Politicians that give and spend need more to stay in power they will come after the little guys. VAT, gas tax, etc. already happened in Europe. The lower and middle class pay a lot more in overall tax. A lot more.
That's because these folks have concentrated the wealth into the upper echelon. The numbers don't lie the top 10% earners control 70% of the wealth which suggests the top 5% ought to be contributing more than 60% of the revenue.
Well of course the percentage is higher. But it's deceptive. Look at it this way. Someone making $40,000 a year - let's just say they pay a flat 30% in taxes on that. That's $12,000.
Now, for someone making $400,000, that same 30% is $120,000.
Are you beginning to see how your math doesn't show what you think it does? And just FYI, $40,000 is the very high end of income earned by the bottom 50%. The average is significantly less.
Why do you add the "my dear?" Why is that necessary? What does it bring to the conversation? If you are uncomfortable, that is your problem. Let's be respectful and talk about the issues, not one another.
Globalization, technology and constant QE has left many behind. It is not a zero sum game where taking it from one benefits the other. We can do better. Most of the wealthiest in America were not born to it. The Bezos’ and Musks of today have created enormous value and jobs. They came from very little. We need to keep that spirit going
I see you are deflecting away from your premise that the top-tier folks are paying too much. It sucks when ones argument just totally collapses.
Bezos, Musk, Gates, Buffet , etc., aren't complaining, either. The aren't going broke and the only zero sum player seems to be you, who doesn't want to contribute to the society that allowed such personal greatness to occur.
Whether they were "born to it" or not isn't the issue, David. The real issue? -- money is concentrated at the top!
Many jobs created, yes, by the Bezos and Musks. but not commensurate wages -- even though production is up! Since 1980 productivity has increased by 72% but wages have increased by only 17%. Where has the money gone? To increased corporate profits, not to the workers. And this is the sin of our economy. Basic unfairness and injustice, unfettered capitalism!
We must shift back to First Day Fairness that gives workers leverage. "Broad-based wage growth is the key to reversing the rise of income inequality, enhancing social mobility, reducing poverty, boosting middle-class incomes, and aiding asset-building and retirement security."
That chart is from the conservative heritage foundation and presents information that simply shows a progressive income tax model. What is the problem? You don't think progressive taxation is "fair"? The reality of income and taxation in the US is a much more complex picture with much inequity. Fair = equity - where those who have abundance can afford to provide more to the common welfare of the nation than those who have little to none extra to hand over. Would a flat tax rate be more fair? Now that is one question to discuss.
Entitlements is the answer? How about give ever child $20 k and choice. Get rid of Randi and the Union. Entitlements are forever. We will end up with government at 40% of GDP. Growth 0. Everyone will pay. You are forewarned. Your view of everyday citizens ability is pathetic. They and we are better.
40% is about the average in Europe. Where it gets significantly higher, growth tends to be a little slower but I don't think Scandinavia has anything to envy the US for nonetheless.....the people live exceedingly well and are happier than most.
David, while investors make huge profits in this deregulated economy, 600,000 Americans died because our health care industry is owned by investors and corporations.
America must learn that corporate profits do not make for a healthy, safe and sound society. Were this the case, then every child and elder in America would be well cared for, while secure in their youth and twilight years. We face cataclysmic threats with our decaying infrastructure, crumbling buildings and searing temperatures while the Texas winters promise more frozen pipes.
The stock market only cares for Wall Street. Now it is time to focus on every Main Street throughout America.
Yes Frederick and good morning! This thread started out with Fern presenting and encouraging readers to peruse the American Families Plan… an integral part of improving the infrastructure of our country. It devolved into only talking about the tax reform connected with the plan. I’m glad you brought us back to talking about Main Street and not Wall Street. I do not find that discussion delusional. And to tie into another comment today….Main Street as it represents all neighborhoods in America…MOST CERTAINLY is the soul of America. The infrastructure bills-both of them and resulting legislation commits to improving the health, safety, and welfare of this country’s people. All of the people.
Health care as an industry drove me from it. Abomination of a profit-taking machine on the backs of women, POC, the elderly and other under-served. It is a criminal enterprise.
Finally, I'm so glad you came here. Until you came along, no one paid any mind to the PLOP!, except to reply that they liked it. So, frustrating. This one has gotten a lot a attention, lots of points for him, and hopefully we won't be inundated as we were months ago. Sorry for the spiel. Welcome!
Sorry, i shouldnt stoop to comments on character. Its hard to resist when hes talking about more money than i can imagine. I know the difference between necessity and luxury, but i wonder if he does.
I'm certainly willing to 'discuss' these points: Wall Street profits; lower taxes on passive income than earned income; tax breaks for the wealthy, such as the trump tax cut; lack of investment into our democracy and infrastructure; "trickle down" conservative economics"; the threat of global warming to our civilization, from agriculture to beach front property to the threat to the energy grid in Texas and other southern states.
I will happily disagree with you David. My life is not dependent upon agreeing with you. But to have a disagreement, we must first have a discussion. I'm up for this, for it is rare to actually find someone on this board with whom I disagree.
Investment and growth go hand in hand. If a well to do investor is taxed 75% many will not invest or take the risk on a higher risk investment. This kills jobs and growth but likely makes some people happy. That is why Capital Gains should encourage such risk. It encourages activity and jobs. Good for all. Even when marginal rates were 90% the effective tax rate was only a few percent higher on high earners. JFK lowered taxes declaring that high rates encouraged a misallocation in investment. So the real question is what is the real revenue the government needs to do what is best for all constituents? It’s been about 20% for decades. I think it has shifted to 25%. That means we need a rational way to get there that still grows the economy. It’s not the Biden plan that is entitlement central nor the previous administrations. A big key is the more growth we have, longer term the more we can spend and invest as a government.
Growth is NOT the answer. America has had cycles of growth and bust since 1776. If growth were the answer, we would all have opportunities for a great education, health care and feel safe and secure.
The fact is that far too many Americans do not have the health care one needs - I pay $984/month for a horrid health care plan! Far too many Americans are within two paychecks of having nothing in their account, including a child of mine.
I agree with you about the question facing our public policy makers - how does this society address this vast inequality of opportunities, where EVERYTHING is monetized in a for-profit model.
Now, the uber wealthy pay nothing in taxes, and my children pay somewhere in the 20% range, on working class incomes. Totally dysfunctional - and not beyond a rational discussion to solve.
David, do yiu think everyone who doesnt think just like you crazy? Could it be that those if us with our feet on the ground are mire to be trusted, more grounded in reality?
Well, that's been the prevailing "wisdom" for 40 years. But how are things going? Not so well. The middle class is shrinking and the jobs that supported that class are disappearing. We are a long long ways from disincentivizing people. But we have a responsibility to incentivize EVERYONE. The more incentivized EVERYONE is, the better off this country will be. Raise ALL boats.Unless you like the idea of bullet proof Suburbans and guards and concertina wire fence around your home(s).
Actually character does have a lot to do with this problem: that is the difference between a pirate and an ethical businessman. Trustworthy businessmen are a credit to our country, make good neighbors and we dont have to hide our children from them.
If the beneficiaries of the Reagan/Trump tax cuts had actually invested in the US real US economy rather than in offshore finacial vehicles benefiting only themselves and avaiding even the current low tax rate thenyou might have a leg to stand on....but as it's not the case....your up sh*t creek.
David, the incentive is and has been for the owner to make money, make money and make money.
Under Trump our national debt increased by 50% as I understand it. No one said "stop".
By the way, as you know other countries have a wealth tax. It is only new here. I can think of one bank that has 12 trillion dollars a month go through it, every month. That is only one bank.
Time to review our tax laws with that in mind.
Business is good for the United States and getting better. With President Biden's initiatives it will get better and build a better America....hmmmm, where have I heard
Charlie, you are welcome. Unfortunately my warnings didn't work, for the first time, and I employed often. This character and one or two others dominated the forum in April and perhaps a bit before and after that. Some subscribers don't distinguish a real troll from a pest, excessive personality or some smart aleck. They are eager to engage or debate someone with a different point of view. There is no winning with a troll because it isn't a normal exchange of differing perspectives. Trolls have smart sounding a negative scripts and the sort of come ons that some cannot refuse. Understandably, subscribers are concerned about censorship, which we want to avoid. That can be an issue if the subscriber doesn't recognize the intruder for who he or she is. So, this character's first name starts with a D and last with a C. You'll see him further back. Read his shtick, several of his comments and replies, which should give you a good sense of the style and substance. This character could be gone by now. I will not be on forum for the rest of week. My concern is that these characters earn points when they engage, and if they make out well, return often and sometimes one or two more appear. When this happens, the forum has been tagged as fertile hunting grounds. Now I leave you for awhile, have a good week, Charlie.
You provided a good and timely laugh. Thank you, Charlie. I had an unfortunate exchange with William. He was not open to learning about our difficult April with trolls. The fellow here today was one of them. William will go his own way. If you're curious, you'll find our spat in the vicinity. Cheers, Charlie.
Many PLOP!s, to no avail. Some were deleted because they went off the trail after a while. There were plenty of likes for them but no recognition of what they were there for. DC had quite a time. Subscribers were on his lap and seemed to be enjoying themselves, if not him. I hated to see subscribers following his subjects for such a long time. Goal accomplished DC. He had their absolute attention. I hope control is wrestled while I'm absent. I feel relieved to have a break. Couldn't peruse the forum with DC taking over. I've taken advantage of your shoulder, thank you. Have good days, Christine. I'll be back on Friday or Saturday.
Oh what that January 6 Investigation can accomplish without Republicans! No more limit on how long it will take. No more nuts like Jim Jordan to fast-talk his way through a witness’s testimony. And this time, as it was the last time, when they all line up to complain outside of the room, Nancy can always say that they weee invited but refused to participate.
I think it’s important to have Republicans on the commission, because even Democrats can become hyperbolic in front of the camera. But Nancy will definitely not pick Congress critters who will act as MAGA defense attorneys through the process. I hope that at its best, the commission’s goals are results based and provide law enforcement and the Justice Dept with a path of action going forward.
I took immediate note of the reference to Ronald Reagan. The day Reagan was announced as the president, I told a coworker it was one of the darkest days in our nation's history. I intuited the darkness of Reagan. I came to call him "The Great Destroyer".
Today's column speaks volumes to me. I learned years ago that our electric grid has not been updated or modernized since the days of Dwight Eisenhower. I read how our infrastructure is forty – forty! -- years behind schedule. Reagan's and the Republican Party's travesty has resulted in a tragedy of insurmountable proportions. Reagan put a knife squarely into the back of working Americans, all the while subtly touting his racism and his hatred of gays and lesbians. (Reagan diverted MILLIONS of funds set aside for HIV/AIDS research to other programs. He and Jerry Falwell Sr. joyfully declared HIV/AIDS was "God's punishment" for being gay. The evil from that White House lives on.)
As a one who spent five decades in the private business sector after my honorable Military service, I know about the importance of planning and development. My career in real estate property management, development and construction was a continuum of learning. Structures, small and large, are assets that must be properly maintained, preserved and protected. "Our" government has failed at that along national, state and local lines. I applaud the Biden administration for its effort to regenerate the plans and practices that have been set aside for far too long.
In the meantime, we must relegate Mitch McConnell and his cabal of evildoers to the dustbin of history. To me, this is not about a particular political party. It is about good vs. evil. Republicans at large have become the body of consummate evil. When a person (McConnell) refers to themself proudly as "the Grim Reaper", we have a problem.
Thank you, Christine. I am saddened and dismayed to see what our Republic is turning into. My dad's side arrived on the shores of the Chesapeake in the 1600s. My distant paternal grandfather fought during The American Revolutionary War with the Virginia 9th Regiment. My uncles served, WWII. Brother and brother-in-law during the Korean War. I was USAF classified Intel, Vietnam War Era. Trump and his minions, including the entire Republican Party, have injected a lethal toxin into the veins of our nation.
Wanted to share this with my boomer sisters and brothers:
Gee Wally - If most Republicans believe Antifa, BLM and violent left-wing activists stormed the Capitol on January 6th, then why do they oppose a commission to investigate it? (image at the link)
This is so badly needed. I am old enough that I remember the post WWII highway building. Rt 128, 493,495, taking down the buildings for the elevated highway through Boston, and then taking that down and re building the SE expressway underground etc, Time to rebuild our country's highways and bridges before more fall down. Time to make our train system modern, time for the wealthy to pay their share of taxes, fix up schools, have free pre-school for children, etc. This needs to happen, I will not live long enough to see all this done but my children and grandchildren will and what I wish for them is a United States that is united and a democracy that honors all inhabitants of this country. "sigh" so tired of the hatred spewed out of the mouths of so many.
When you see what Trump supporters post that offer no review of our nation's physical, fiscal and functional challenges, just personal attacks and name calling. When you hear about building failures, bridge and transportation decay, water and power grid stress and breakdowns. When you hear and experience "heat domes" and heat waves at temperatures and during periods of the year that aren't just 2 degrees above normal, but 20+ degrees above normal. And then you see fires and storms that destroy billions of dollars of private and public life, land and property. You would think that Americans cannot expect to continue to ignore what we are doing to ourselves and our planet. We do have a disconnect with life that seems rooted in entertainment media that for purposes of maximizing monetary gain, has replaced all forms of education, productive work, intellectual activity and communication.
Ty David, this is part of the logic that I thought everyone on this forum recognized. It seemed to me, Biden spoke more of losing our democracy to his international peers than he does to us American voters. The assaults on our right to vote, the assaults on our freedom of speech, and freedom of peaceful assembly make my stomach turn. He has the bully pulpit, I wish he would speak about these topics.
I think Biden hopes/expects that Americans will respond to their competitive instincts that Trump also reaches to make the US great against foreign competitors. However, it appears that Republicans in particular have developed a bypass switch to ignore everything said by anybody but Trump. When Trump says foreign nations like China are competition, he adds "unfair" competition, they accept tariffs and hate speech. But when a Democrat, Independent or a Romney Republican says we must build up our national strength via investment and focused ingenuity, they call it "socialism". These switches keep McConnell, Cruz, FOX, etc able to control their narrative and puppets.
Notice that the Alabama "rally" was cancelled? The venue called it a partisan event!! I have to wonder if these rallies are being paid for - remember? some of the earlier ones were not.
As well as our abundantly clear climate crisis! Caused by or at least aggravated by the decades long LIES and rejection of science by the corporations who held all the strings of our government. Gonna take tough leadership, I pray he is the one who can speak to these tough issues.
It takes you back to the Confederacy "cornerstone" speech by a Southern Democrat Senator laying out the "new confederate constitution, its ethos, principles and particularies posted to by TC today. Infrastructure is only to be done on a user-pay basis using private investment. It of course takes no account of the indirect and otherwise induced impact that such investment can have on society as a whole or the interraction of several such investments in generating innovation.
Another example is the building collapse in Florida - the rise of sea water in those cities? Is there really a question as to what actually was the beginning of that deterioration?
I havent heard that mentioned more than maybe once & very quietly. Altho, right now with the number of people likely dead in that rubble, I guess cause may not matter to many. Every time I read or hear of people in Miami "cant understand whats taking so long"? Do they have a clue how dangerous working under that building is for the firemen & rescuers? Speed would be truly dangerous.
On March 21, 1861, Alexander H. Stevens, Vice President of the newly-proclaimed Confederate States of America gave a speech in Savannah Georgia, in which he laid out what the new nation was about. The speech is known in history as The Cornerstone Speech for his extended discourse on what "the cornerstone" on which the Confederacy was founded was. (Take a guess) He also explained the economic system on which the Confederacy was founded, which is worth a read tonight, given the topic of HCR's post:
"This new constitution. or form of government, constitutes the subject to which your attention will be partly invited. In reference to it, I make this first general remark: it amply secures all our ancient rights, franchises, and liberties. All the great principles of Magna Charta are retained in it. No citizen is deprived of life, liberty, or property, but by the judgment of his peers under the laws of the land. The great principle of religious liberty, which was the honor and pride of the old constitution, is still maintained and secured. All the essentials of the old constitution, which have endeared it to the hearts of the American people, have been preserved and perpetuated. Some changes have been made. Some of these I should have preferred not to have seen made; but other important changes do meet my cordial approbation. They form great improvements upon the old constitution. So, taking the whole new constitution, I have no hesitancy in giving it as my judgment that it is decidedly better than the old.
"Allow me briefly to allude to some of these improvements. The question of building up class interests, or fostering one branch of industry to the prejudice of another under the exercise of the revenue power, which gave us so much trouble under the old constitution, is put at rest forever under the new. We allow the imposition of no duty with a view of giving advantage to one class of persons, in any trade or business, over those of another. All, under our system, stand upon the same broad principles of perfect equality. Honest labor and enterprise are left free and unrestricted in whatever pursuit they may be engaged. This old thorn of the tariff, which was the cause of so much irritation in the old body politic, is removed forever from the new.
"Again, the subject of internal improvements, under the power of Congress to regulate commerce, is put at rest under our system. The power, claimed by construction under the old constitution, was at least a doubtful one; it rested solely upon construction. We of the South, generally apart from considerations of constitutional principles, opposed its exercise upon grounds of its inexpediency and injustice. Notwithstanding this opposition, millions of money, from the common treasury had been drawn for such purposes. Our opposition sprang from no hostility to commerce, or to all necessary aids for facilitating it. With us it was simply a question upon whom the burden should fall. In Georgia, for instance, we have done as much for the cause of internal improvements as any other portion of the country, according to population and means. We have stretched out lines of railroads from the seaboard to the mountains; dug down the hills, and filled up the valleys at a cost of not less than $25,000,000. All this was done to open an outlet for our products of the interior, and those to the west of us, to reach the marts of the world. No State was in greater need of such facilities than Georgia, but we did not ask that these works should be made by appropriations out of the common treasury. The cost of the grading, the superstructure, and the equipment of our roads was borne by those who had entered into the enterprise. Nay, more not only the cost of the iron no small item in the aggregate cost was borne in the same way, but we were compelled to pay into the common treasury several millions of dollars for the privilege of importing the iron, after the price was paid for it abroad. What justice was there in taking this money, which our people paid into the common treasury on the importation of our iron, and applying it to the improvement of rivers and harbors elsewhere? The true principle is to subject the commerce of every locality, to whatever burdens may be necessary to facilitate it. If Charleston harbor needs improvement, let the commerce of Charleston bear the burden. If the mouth of the Savannah river has to be cleared out, let the sea-going navigation which is benefited by it, bear the burden. So with the mouths of the Alabama and Mississippi river. Just as the products of the interior, our cotton, wheat, corn, and other articles, have to bear the necessary rates of freight over our railroads to reach the seas. This is again the broad principle of perfect equality and justice, and it is especially set forth and established in our new constitution."
Does this economic system sound familiar? Consider Republicans back in 2014 not wanting to spend "their states' dollars" on emergency aid to New York City after Hurricane Sandy. Consider just about every economic policy put forward by Republicans in the past 40 years. "Southernomics" IS "Republican Economics."
All that pontificating about not spending others’ resources - while every single one of those “self-funded” improvements in Georgia was actually made by enslaved persons!
It makes me think of my first day in UCL in London where you will find, outside the main library, a "mummified" statue of Jeremy Bentham (1748-1832), UCL's patron and founder. His greatest contribution to economics, politics and philosophy was the idea that "what distinguished right from wrong in Society, be it civil or economic society was the creation of the greatest happiness for the greatest number of people".
John Stuart Mill (1806-1873) followed on from Bentham espousing the theory of Utilitarianism governing the economic relations between individuals in society; the greatest utility to the greatest number carried the decision as to "right and wrong". Later in life he tended towards the end of the scale that limited the power of the individual and his freedom for the greater "utility" of the people.
However, he deemed that there were exceptions and expressed them in his work "On Liberty" (1859). This book addresses the nature and limits of the power that can be legitimately exercised by society over the individual. However, Mill is clear that his concern for liberty does not extend to all individuals and all societies. He states that "Despotism is a legitimate mode of government in dealing with Barbarians." And this is the only part that the Republicans have ever understood.
“exhaustively” is key word TC. Always felt that the longer one pontificates suggests an ability spin a lie into a comfortable truth. Long winded. Like Fox News.
No mention here of the second charter signed at the same time "The Charter of the Forest"! The people's charter, as it was popularly called, protected the rights of the people against their abuse by the King, the Barons and the Bourgeoisie and not just sorting out the relationship of those already in power.
Ahhh. That’s another thing. The slave owners viciously punished any attempts for the enslaved to learn to read and write. No chance of them writing a charter.
The Barons were no happier with restrictions placed on their rapacity and abuse of "their" peasants who were often little better than slaves and sought to defend their 'Commons" rights from privatization. Often this was all that kept them alive.
And then in the 18th Century, with the "Enclosure movement" it was said that "The man who stole a goose from the commons was transported to America, while the man who stole the commons from the goose was transported to Parliament."
Morning, all!! Morning, Dr. R!! There is so much that needs fixin', and it'll always be that way. I get the sense Biden is picking his battles with due diligence.
Last Sunday (6/27/21) on Meet the Press, Joshua Johnson made what to me was a compelling comment regarding the infrastructure bill. Referring to the horrific event in Surfside, Florida, he said, "There's nothing like a disaster to focus the mind. I have never spent a night in a building and wondered whether or not it was going to hold me up by morning." He also cited a National Institute of Building Sciences report, to wit, "For every dollar you spend on hazard mitigation you save $6.00 on disaster relief." Also, "...so I understand all these political calculi that are playing, but there's nothing like a disaster to remind the American people the home you sleep in may not stand by morning, and there's something you can do about it." https://www.nbcnews.com/meet-the-press-full-episodes (Quote at around 34:05)
Good morning, Lynell! Here's the link from the WAPO story. Unfortunately, water insecurity is a nationwide issue not confined to rural dwellers. I'm including links from a couple of articles I've read over the last couple years.
What surprised me was learning of the number of urban dwellers who lack running water. I was familiar with the issues on reservations and in rural areas but I had no idea the number of folks in apartment buildings living without water or bathroom facilities. Every time I learn of a basic infrastructure deficit that people live without (not of their own choosing) I wonder who we really are as a nation. Who are the landlords who rent these dwellings? Who are the inspectors who pass these buildings? Why are there people so poor and desperate that they have to live like that? What about the treaties that have been swept under the rugs for centuries?
Obviously, I have no answers other than it behooves folks to vote wisely so our leaders are concerned about the welfare of all the people, that they have access to not just basics like water but that they also have safe dwellings. And, obviously, as proven last week, the amount of money one pays for a dwelling does not guarantee its safety.
I may be naive, Daria, but I firmly believe Biden is the man for the job; I firmly believe he will try his heart out for all of us; I firmly believe he is a man of substance, not fluff.
Just imagine the California Central Valley if we didn't pipe water over the Sierra Nevadas and other ranges. No more fruit and vege production! Drought in the mountains and on the prairies is anyway taking us there. You can't pipe water if the rain hasn't fallen or the "locals" serve their own needs first in times of shortage.
Stuart, you're mistaken about where water for the Central Valley comes from - it's water from northern California. But you're absolutely correct about the picture for the future as the drought continues to grow.
"Central Valley Project In the 1930s, the federal government got involved, building the Central Valley Project (CVP) to support the arid but fertile Central Valley and its agricultural economy. Built by the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, the CVP transports water from Lake Shasta in the north to Bakersfield in the southern San Joaquin Valley."
Colorado River water is pumped over the southern mountains to the Metropolitan Water District (LA) whence it's distributed to subsidiary members and other regions which pay the Met for water sent to them (such as San Diego). https://water.ca.gov/Water-Basics/The-California-Water-System
Judith, many thanks for the correction of my geography, my climatolgy and its effect on human settlement and agricultural production stands however for the rgions for which you have applied it.
You're welcome. I'm more informed than the average Californian because I took up the offer of two multi-day tours operated in partnership with the Metropolitan Water District (MWD) and the SD County Water Authority. One is a tour along the State Water Project from Oroville Dam south past the Sacramento Delta and various reservoirs en route, 3 days/2 nts, in 2008 when there also was a severe drought and Lake Oroville had a huge 'bathtub ring' though not as great as today's. We flew to Sacramento, bus up to Oroville Dam then south to fly home from San Jose. The other was along the Colorado River from Hoover Dam and back to San Diego in 2014, again 3 days/2 nts, by bus (after flight to Las Vegas). Both were eye-opening.
I don't believe in a literal Hell -- I think we make our own Heaven or Hell here on Earth -- but if I did, I'd be certain that one of the hottest places in Hell is reserved for McConnell.
"Death Valley holds the record for the highest air temperature on the planet: On 10 July 1913, temperatures at the aptly named Furnace Creek area in the California desert reached a blistering 56.7°C (134.1°F). Average summer temperatures, meanwhile, often rise above 45°C (113°F).
"But when it comes to surface temperature, two spots have Death Valley beat. A new analysis of high-resolution satellite data finds the Lut Desert in Iran and the Sonoran Desert along the Mexican-U.S. border have recently reached a sizzling 80.8°C (177.4°F)."
This is off topic, briefly, because watching a program last night of coverage on the collapse of the condo in Surfside called for attention to the families waiting. Having learned about the nature of this collapse, hope does not appear realistic. We can be with the families in spirit.
A big leap now to our president. It seemed as though I was seeing a page from a book by Heather Cox Richardson when I read this piece. Truly, I couldn’t believe my eyes, until I could:
‘The larger story, which often gets lost in the daily news cycle, is the enduring scale of Biden’s ambition. Simply put, he is trying to remake American domestic policy in a way rarely seen outside wartime. Looking at the scale of his proposals to tackle climate change, expand the social safety net, and check rising income inequality, the only comparable Democratic initiatives are the New Deal and the Great Society. Even those comparisons are a bit misleading: F.D.R. and Lyndon Johnson both enjoyed large majorities on Capitol Hill. Biden’s Democrats have a narrow, nine-vote majority in the House, while in the Senate he must rely on his Vice-President to break a tie. That’s if he can cajole the likes of Joe Manchin and Kyrsten Sinema into supporting him.
Pulling off this double-play is a mighty challenge, but Biden seems fully committed to doing so.’ (The New Yorker by John Cassidy) See the link below:
“I couldn’t believe my eyes until I could.” Exactly, Fern. Thank you for sharing article. Good start overcoming wearisome constant criticism of Biden even from supporters of democracy.
Hi Fern. I’m making a reference to your comment: “Simply put, he is trying to remake American domestic policy in a way rarely seen outside wartime.” I believe Biden is cognizant and working diligently to save democracy from anti democratic forces. I also hope and believe that in the age of Atomic bombs, that “wars” will be waged very differently.
“In the United States, we most often speak about disinformation in terms of its meaning for democracy because the problem entered our collective conscience during the 2016 elections. However, for Russia, disinformation is intimately tied to the military sphere as well. While democratic governments tend to see the world as being either in a state of war or at peace, the communist view did not dichotomize these conditions and instead contended that all political activity inherently involves conflict. Most contemporary Russian experts who study information warfare believe that Russia and its adversaries use these tactics during both war and peace, and that the current Russian leadership considers itself to be in an information confrontation with the United States.” https://www.lawfareblog.com/why-does-russia-use-disinformation
Christy, Your reply touches upon a dimension in current forms of information - disinformation that have not been approached by LFAA, to my knowledge. I have not yet read the lawfare article and don't know whether our economic competition with China and its role in disinformation has a place in your consideration of Biden's multilayered efforts to recharge American Democracy. The American Families Act is a pivotal aspect of this mission. I am pressed to do my work, so not yet prepared to provide you with a proper response, Your thoughts are now on my schedule, and I will get back to you with a more in a couple of days. This reply of yours is a gem. I hope you do not hesitate to write out your thoughts on the forum. Work like this cause us to dig more deeply into the forces that effect our lives and consider what our approaches to them might be. Thank you, Christy.
Wow this is just out from Ruth Ben-Ghiat’s substack:
“War is being waged on the collective mind of America, not just by Russia and China, but by the infotainment complex that includes Fox News, lesser right-wing outlets and an army of trolls, which has convinced 30 to 40% of the American electorate that Donald Trump is the legitimate president of the United States. The American Republic did live under the constant threat, remote as it may have been, of nuclear annihilation for many years, but we've now gotten to the point that the only thing that can destroy this country is ourselves.” Interview with Tim Weiner on Lucid
Thank you, Christy. I will follow up. I suspected that there has been disinformation coming from sources in addition to Russia,, along with treasonous characters in our government, Trump & Co., much within our walls as well as the cyber wars. The penetration of disinformation and domestic terrorists have produced fire, fire everywhere. My deep discomfort with a troll or trolls on the Forum and enablers here, who do not recognize them as such and cry censorship and or see them as a source for learning indicate how close they are and how difficult it is to demagnetize them.
Thank you for your encouragement ❤️. I have not read anywhere near the same amount on our relations with China, but from what little I see they appear more competitive than subversive but I really cannot speak to our relations with China, though I have some books on my list. I hope your work flows smoothly and you are rewarded with satisfaction. Thank you again.
Urf, Tim: as a MO resident (other side of the state in rather more sane KC) I am well aware of the combination of "deeply stupid" and "utterly unhinged" figures who have decided to run for Roy Blunt's seat (check out the looney-tunes grifter Eric Greitens). This is a very funny article, but alas not so divorced from reality not to be worrisome. However, with the likes of McCloskey on the ticket we might have another Troy Akin moment, if the Dems run a reasonable campaign with a strong candidate.
Took a vacation from life and the news. I felt safe to do so for the first time in years, trusting that others would pay attention. I came back to messages like this from HCR that speak of work to be done, positive work beyond the continuing need to protect democracy. Perhaps the tide has finally turned towards a better shore. Good morning everyone.
Heather, thank you so much for this letter - especially the explanation of the two-track infrastructure bill. I thought I'd lost my mind when the Republicans acted stunned and amazed that the plan was to have two tracks for the bills, and that the Democrats would present the second bill and pass it through reconciliation. I knew that had been discussed at length on television prior to the bipartisan bill's approval, and couldn't reconcile the righteous indignation of the Republicans at being "deceived" by Biden. Even CNN and MSNBC were glad to throw Biden under the bus and never mention that this plan was common knowledge to anyone who was paying an attention. It frustrates that the media stirs the pot by pointing to Biden's missteps, after what this country has been through the last five years, and Mitch McConnell's malevolent behavior since 2010. I'm not blind to the fact that Joe Biden isn't perfect, but he began before he was even sworn into office to try to put this country back together, and I believe the media is obligated to tell the truth. The Republicans knew exactly what they were agreeing to, and so did the press.
I love it that McCarthy has "consultation rights" only. That means no one the likes of Jim Jordan or Lauren Boebert can be on this "select" committee. I hope McCarthy is soiling his pants as he awaits being called to testify. The truth shall set us free, or in his case get him thrown out of office. And, McTurtleneck is as sly as he can be, but someday he's going to get caught in his own trap. Can't wait.
Polititions use holidays and breaks to connect to voters. Go to your local 4th of July parade, and the barbecue afterwards. Make an appointment. Let your voice be heard. And heard. And heard.
I think one of us is living through the looking glass. Here, our pols are dialing and dealing for dollars, holding private events, and, if you manage to get a question, mouthing complete and utter bs that has no relation to reality. And that's the so-called Democrat.
Good morning, Professor! We are getting closer to a true renewal in the US. The Retrumplicans are even taking the time to attack you here. McConnell is sputtering like a gas engine trying to run on diesel. When the wealthy start paying their taxes and companies begin paying their "fair" share and those green jobs fatten the payroll tax, we won't be spending into the red.
'The American Families Plan, an investment in our kids, our families, and our economic future'
Please read this plan. if you want to be excited about the future; if you want your families to be secure and hopeful; if you want to be proud to be an American; if you want to live in a vibrant democracy; if you are ready to be even more enthusiastic because you have great news to tell everyone, PLEASE READ THIS PLAN, (see the link below).
Here are just a few details and headlines:
'Add at least four years of free education. Investing in education is a down payment on the future of America. As access to high school became more widely available at the turn of the 20th Century, it made us the best-educated and best-prepared nation in the world. But everyone knows that 13 years is not enough today. The American Families Plan will make transformational investments from early childhood to postsecondary education so that all children and young people are able to grow, learn, and gain the skills they need to succeed. It will provide universal, high quality preschool to all three- and four- year-olds. It will provide Americans two years of free community college. It will invest in making college more affordable for low- and middle-income students, including students at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), Tribal Colleges and Universities (TCUs), and institutions such as Hispanic-serving institutions, Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander-serving institutions, and other minority-serving institutions (MSIs). And, it will invest in our teachers as well as our students, improving teacher training and support so that our schools become engines of growth at every level.'
'Provide direct support to children and families. Our nation is strongest when everyone has the opportunity to join the workforce and contribute to the economy. But many workers struggle to both hold a full-time job and care for themselves and their families. The American Families Plan will provide direct support to families to ensure that low- and middle-income families spend no more than seven percent of their income on child care, and that the child care they access is of high-quality. It will also provide direct support to workers and families by creating a national comprehensive paid family and medical leave program that will bring America in line with competitor nations that offer paid leave programs.'
ADD AT LEAST FOUR YEARS OF FREE PUBLIC EDUCATION, CLOSE EQUITY GAPS, AND MAKE COLLEGE MORE AFFORDABLE
UNIVERSAL PRE-SCHOOL FOR ALL THREE- AND FOUR-YEAR-OLDS
FREE COMMUNITY COLLEGE AND OTHER POSTSECONDARY EDUCATION INVESTMENTS
EDUCATION AND PREPARATION FOR TEACHERS
CHILD CARE
UNEMPLOYMENT INSURANCE REFORM
TAX CUTS FOR AMERICA’S FAMILIES AND WORKERS
TAX REFORM THAT REWARDS WORK – NOT WEALTH
(AMERICAN FAMILIES PLAN)
https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2021/04/28/fact-sheet-the-american-families-plan/
In a contest of intelligence and will between Pelosi and McConnell, McConnell has to do a lot better than bringing a pillow to a gunfight. Pelosi is smarter and has just as much determination as McConnell. McConnell may be a Sith lord but the Force is strong with Pelosi.
Bruce. One of my fave comments today. Thanks!
Bruce, Your comparison here between Pelosi and McConnell caught by mind with its drama and imagery. One of the most compelling reads for me recently was a transcript of Ezra Klein's podcast with Ari Berman, an expert on voting suppression bills called The Republican Long Game to Steal Democracy. It is clear and dense with thought. I hope that you find it worthwhile. The link is below:
https://www.nytimes.com/2021/06/25/opinion/ezra-klein-podcast-ari-berman.html
I completely agree. I regularly follow Ezra Klein and had read and listened to this. My mornings would not be complete without my immersing myself in the daily edition of The NY Times to which I have been a subscriber since being 10 years old, now over 60 years.
While I applaud this plan, I am disappointed that the emphasis here on funding 2 years of post-secondary education either does not explicitly include "the trades" (an expert service worker is fixing my washing machine as I write) or minimizes it, perhaps including it under "or certificate." Reading "Head, Hand, Heart" by David Goodhart (I HIGHLY recommend this book) has substantiated my conviction that the USA is losing out by not valuing the trades, not providing apprenticeships, and not valuing the gifts of folks who "work with their hands and heart." If these programs are included, it should be outlined in this White House document. Our democracy depends on it.
I have been working with another forum and OAC focusing on education issues. Vocational ed… the trades.. bring a stronger picture, plan, and path for students in middle school and high school to follow and to prepare for that post secondary route.
I am confident a growing focus and support will be there. So glad you brought it up MaryPat. Let’s follow that thread as infrastructure details get more in place.
Meant PAC
Thank you, MaryPat, for wanting to include the trades. My husband is one such, and is damned good at it; in fact, he's damned good at most all of it, though he doesn't touch electric! His head is pretty up there, too, as well as his heart. (OMG, I sound like a female chauvinist!)
Could not agree more. It's impossible to get anyone in to do a repair and has been for years now. The trades are hard work but absolutely necessary; they haven't gotten the status they deserve and need to attract young people to them.
Thanks, MaryPat! Needs to be right alongside "2 years of post-secondary." I assumed that is what it refers to, however, b/c many tech schools, community colleges are 2-year programs, or thereabouts. Where would we be with out those electricians, plumbers, and HVAC people in our houses every day! Yikes!
…of, by, and for the people.
All of them this time.
Don’t count me in on this disaster. All of it.
PLOP!
Fern, you are a very intelligent person. This is an excellent letter.
Thank you. My inspiration came from the American Families Plan. While reading the plan this morning, it was as though the sun was rising on America. It would change the country the way the New Deal did. I hope that you read it, Joe. The Families Plan must happen. We have to make it so.
TAX REFORM THAT REWARDS WORK – NOT WEALTH…What is the incentive for those then to invest and hire your kids? Or is the plan to have them all work for? The plan is a tax on your and my kids futures. Big taxes, huge government, huge debt, anti growth, and anti jobs and capital.
David, people (and corporations) must pay their fair share in taxes. We are where we are because 40 years ago Republicans set us on a course degradation and destruction of infrastructure, both physical and human. I don't understand how you can honestly believe that those who make more shouldn't contribute more. You state that the AFP is anti growth and anti jobs, that there will be no incentive to hire our kids, that it will be a burden. Look around you, David, our country is falling apart, physically and socially. Republicans have pushed us into a gutter. If our kids are uneducated and unhealthy, who's going to hire them anyway?
Daria. What is fair share. What do the bottom 50% of Americans pay in Federal taxes? What does the top 5% pay. IRS #. The bottom 50 % pay 3%. Top 5% pay 60%. Fact. Don’t you all just want more and the other guy to pay? What is enough? Demonizing and virtue signaling will not pay for the crazed Biden plan. In the end everyone will pay. Everyone. https://www.dailysignal.com/wp-content/uploads/FBIP-SOCIAL-04.jpg
You forget to mention who pays all the taxes that hit consumption, work related charges etc. One-sided, incomplete arguments are not particularly persuasive. Of course everyone will pay the bi-partisan Biden Infrastucture deal, that's normal in a democratic society....but each according to their means.
Exactly. Good point. When the Politicians that give and spend need more to stay in power they will come after the little guys. VAT, gas tax, etc. already happened in Europe. The lower and middle class pay a lot more in overall tax. A lot more.
Because there are a lot more of them and collectively, that's where the money is to be found.
Do you mean the middle class pays more collectively or per centage -wise as individuals?
Uh David, the Daily Signal is a product of the Heritage Foundation. As with the rest of the right wing, the "facts" are slanted in that direction.
Hmmm... those stats are bs.
https://www.propublica.org/article/the-secret-irs-files-trove-of-never-before-seen-records-reveal-how-the-wealthiest-avoid-income-tax
Not the average of the top 5%. They pay 60% of all taxes. So you are saying the governments own statistics are wrong. The numbers my dear don’t lie. https://www.dailysignal.com/wp-content/uploads/FBIP-SOCIAL-04.jpg
Definitely not “your dear”, but clearly able to recognize a multi level method of widening the wealth gap.
That's because these folks have concentrated the wealth into the upper echelon. The numbers don't lie the top 10% earners control 70% of the wealth which suggests the top 5% ought to be contributing more than 60% of the revenue.
Thanks for p(l)aying...
Well of course the percentage is higher. But it's deceptive. Look at it this way. Someone making $40,000 a year - let's just say they pay a flat 30% in taxes on that. That's $12,000.
Now, for someone making $400,000, that same 30% is $120,000.
Are you beginning to see how your math doesn't show what you think it does? And just FYI, $40,000 is the very high end of income earned by the bottom 50%. The average is significantly less.
Why do you add the "my dear?" Why is that necessary? What does it bring to the conversation? If you are uncomfortable, that is your problem. Let's be respectful and talk about the issues, not one another.
Yes, but 70% of the nation's wealth is concentrated in the top 10%. According to your own logic, that means they own about 10 % more ;)
Globalization, technology and constant QE has left many behind. It is not a zero sum game where taking it from one benefits the other. We can do better. Most of the wealthiest in America were not born to it. The Bezos’ and Musks of today have created enormous value and jobs. They came from very little. We need to keep that spirit going
I see you are deflecting away from your premise that the top-tier folks are paying too much. It sucks when ones argument just totally collapses.
Bezos, Musk, Gates, Buffet , etc., aren't complaining, either. The aren't going broke and the only zero sum player seems to be you, who doesn't want to contribute to the society that allowed such personal greatness to occur.
Whether they were "born to it" or not isn't the issue, David. The real issue? -- money is concentrated at the top!
Many jobs created, yes, by the Bezos and Musks. but not commensurate wages -- even though production is up! Since 1980 productivity has increased by 72% but wages have increased by only 17%. Where has the money gone? To increased corporate profits, not to the workers. And this is the sin of our economy. Basic unfairness and injustice, unfettered capitalism!
We must shift back to First Day Fairness that gives workers leverage. "Broad-based wage growth is the key to reversing the rise of income inequality, enhancing social mobility, reducing poverty, boosting middle-class incomes, and aiding asset-building and retirement security."
https://www.epi.org/productivity-pay-gap/
The Bezos’ and Musks took a hefty profit off the top and created a lot of pollution future generations will have to clean up.
That chart is from the conservative heritage foundation and presents information that simply shows a progressive income tax model. What is the problem? You don't think progressive taxation is "fair"? The reality of income and taxation in the US is a much more complex picture with much inequity. Fair = equity - where those who have abundance can afford to provide more to the common welfare of the nation than those who have little to none extra to hand over. Would a flat tax rate be more fair? Now that is one question to discuss.
David, for the last 30 years my income was below the poverty level. And ypu greedy little piggy would tax that????
The top 5% have 63.5% of American wealth. They should be paying 60% of the taxes! https://www.epi.org/publication/top_5_holds_more_than_half_of_the_countrys_wealth/
Entitlements is the answer? How about give ever child $20 k and choice. Get rid of Randi and the Union. Entitlements are forever. We will end up with government at 40% of GDP. Growth 0. Everyone will pay. You are forewarned. Your view of everyday citizens ability is pathetic. They and we are better.
40% is about the average in Europe. Where it gets significantly higher, growth tends to be a little slower but I don't think Scandinavia has anything to envy the US for nonetheless.....the people live exceedingly well and are happier than most.
Including universal healthcare, paid for out of those higher taxes on all.
And their health care is fantastic!
David, while investors make huge profits in this deregulated economy, 600,000 Americans died because our health care industry is owned by investors and corporations.
America must learn that corporate profits do not make for a healthy, safe and sound society. Were this the case, then every child and elder in America would be well cared for, while secure in their youth and twilight years. We face cataclysmic threats with our decaying infrastructure, crumbling buildings and searing temperatures while the Texas winters promise more frozen pipes.
The stock market only cares for Wall Street. Now it is time to focus on every Main Street throughout America.
Yes Frederick and good morning! This thread started out with Fern presenting and encouraging readers to peruse the American Families Plan… an integral part of improving the infrastructure of our country. It devolved into only talking about the tax reform connected with the plan. I’m glad you brought us back to talking about Main Street and not Wall Street. I do not find that discussion delusional. And to tie into another comment today….Main Street as it represents all neighborhoods in America…MOST CERTAINLY is the soul of America. The infrastructure bills-both of them and resulting legislation commits to improving the health, safety, and welfare of this country’s people. All of the people.
Amen Christine.
Health care as an industry drove me from it. Abomination of a profit-taking machine on the backs of women, POC, the elderly and other under-served. It is a criminal enterprise.
Hear! Hear!
You are delusional
So are you, troll.
Finally, I'm so glad you came here. Until you came along, no one paid any mind to the PLOP!, except to reply that they liked it. So, frustrating. This one has gotten a lot a attention, lots of points for him, and hopefully we won't be inundated as we were months ago. Sorry for the spiel. Welcome!
You Pam. Do not like hearing a different opinion. Call me a troll. But just maybe their is truth in what I point out
or just another opinion. Opinions are easy and cheap. Truth takes work and costs.
Pam is not alone. I call you a Repugnant Party Troll.
Or not. https://www.propublica.org/article/the-secret-irs-files-trove-of-never-before-seen-records-reveal-how-the-wealthiest-avoid-income-tax
Calling someone delusional does nothing to improve or even maintain the quality of the conversation. You took it down the Troll Road.
Oh dear. What is PLOP?
When you have to resort to going after the person you're arguing with, you've lost the argument.
Sorry, i shouldnt stoop to comments on character. Its hard to resist when hes talking about more money than i can imagine. I know the difference between necessity and luxury, but i wonder if he does.
Please explain yourself, David.
I'm certainly willing to 'discuss' these points: Wall Street profits; lower taxes on passive income than earned income; tax breaks for the wealthy, such as the trump tax cut; lack of investment into our democracy and infrastructure; "trickle down" conservative economics"; the threat of global warming to our civilization, from agriculture to beach front property to the threat to the energy grid in Texas and other southern states.
I will happily disagree with you David. My life is not dependent upon agreeing with you. But to have a disagreement, we must first have a discussion. I'm up for this, for it is rare to actually find someone on this board with whom I disagree.
Investment and growth go hand in hand. If a well to do investor is taxed 75% many will not invest or take the risk on a higher risk investment. This kills jobs and growth but likely makes some people happy. That is why Capital Gains should encourage such risk. It encourages activity and jobs. Good for all. Even when marginal rates were 90% the effective tax rate was only a few percent higher on high earners. JFK lowered taxes declaring that high rates encouraged a misallocation in investment. So the real question is what is the real revenue the government needs to do what is best for all constituents? It’s been about 20% for decades. I think it has shifted to 25%. That means we need a rational way to get there that still grows the economy. It’s not the Biden plan that is entitlement central nor the previous administrations. A big key is the more growth we have, longer term the more we can spend and invest as a government.
Growth is NOT the answer. America has had cycles of growth and bust since 1776. If growth were the answer, we would all have opportunities for a great education, health care and feel safe and secure.
The fact is that far too many Americans do not have the health care one needs - I pay $984/month for a horrid health care plan! Far too many Americans are within two paychecks of having nothing in their account, including a child of mine.
I agree with you about the question facing our public policy makers - how does this society address this vast inequality of opportunities, where EVERYTHING is monetized in a for-profit model.
Now, the uber wealthy pay nothing in taxes, and my children pay somewhere in the 20% range, on working class incomes. Totally dysfunctional - and not beyond a rational discussion to solve.
David, do yiu think everyone who doesnt think just like you crazy? Could it be that those if us with our feet on the ground are mire to be trusted, more grounded in reality?
Well, that's been the prevailing "wisdom" for 40 years. But how are things going? Not so well. The middle class is shrinking and the jobs that supported that class are disappearing. We are a long long ways from disincentivizing people. But we have a responsibility to incentivize EVERYONE. The more incentivized EVERYONE is, the better off this country will be. Raise ALL boats.Unless you like the idea of bullet proof Suburbans and guards and concertina wire fence around your home(s).
Actually character does have a lot to do with this problem: that is the difference between a pirate and an ethical businessman. Trustworthy businessmen are a credit to our country, make good neighbors and we dont have to hide our children from them.
And what if i cant afford a tower with armed guards ?¯\_(ツ)_/¯
If the beneficiaries of the Reagan/Trump tax cuts had actually invested in the US real US economy rather than in offshore finacial vehicles benefiting only themselves and avaiding even the current low tax rate thenyou might have a leg to stand on....but as it's not the case....your up sh*t creek.
David, the incentive is and has been for the owner to make money, make money and make money.
Under Trump our national debt increased by 50% as I understand it. No one said "stop".
By the way, as you know other countries have a wealth tax. It is only new here. I can think of one bank that has 12 trillion dollars a month go through it, every month. That is only one bank.
Time to review our tax laws with that in mind.
Business is good for the United States and getting better. With President Biden's initiatives it will get better and build a better America....hmmmm, where have I heard
that?
PLOP!
Its a big plan for a big future for everyone. And its way overdue!
Ploop-a-licious
Fern, Thanks for the link. Important indeed.
Charlie, you are welcome. Unfortunately my warnings didn't work, for the first time, and I employed often. This character and one or two others dominated the forum in April and perhaps a bit before and after that. Some subscribers don't distinguish a real troll from a pest, excessive personality or some smart aleck. They are eager to engage or debate someone with a different point of view. There is no winning with a troll because it isn't a normal exchange of differing perspectives. Trolls have smart sounding a negative scripts and the sort of come ons that some cannot refuse. Understandably, subscribers are concerned about censorship, which we want to avoid. That can be an issue if the subscriber doesn't recognize the intruder for who he or she is. So, this character's first name starts with a D and last with a C. You'll see him further back. Read his shtick, several of his comments and replies, which should give you a good sense of the style and substance. This character could be gone by now. I will not be on forum for the rest of week. My concern is that these characters earn points when they engage, and if they make out well, return often and sometimes one or two more appear. When this happens, the forum has been tagged as fertile hunting grounds. Now I leave you for awhile, have a good week, Charlie.
Fern, Enjoy the time off. Sometimes this is like a bar just before the last call. Always some asshole at the end who just won't shut up.
You provided a good and timely laugh. Thank you, Charlie. I had an unfortunate exchange with William. He was not open to learning about our difficult April with trolls. The fellow here today was one of them. William will go his own way. If you're curious, you'll find our spat in the vicinity. Cheers, Charlie.
😄
Ignoring is not censorship. But I see many were swept up in this DC thing this morning.
He was a magnet and successfully diverted some subscribers off the path. Good to see you, Bruce.
Yes Fern. As Charlie said…most important link of day. It’s why initials DC character trashed it immediately and diverted convo.
Many PLOP!s, to no avail. Some were deleted because they went off the trail after a while. There were plenty of likes for them but no recognition of what they were there for. DC had quite a time. Subscribers were on his lap and seemed to be enjoying themselves, if not him. I hated to see subscribers following his subjects for such a long time. Goal accomplished DC. He had their absolute attention. I hope control is wrestled while I'm absent. I feel relieved to have a break. Couldn't peruse the forum with DC taking over. I've taken advantage of your shoulder, thank you. Have good days, Christine. I'll be back on Friday or Saturday.
Thanks for this Fern.
Oh what that January 6 Investigation can accomplish without Republicans! No more limit on how long it will take. No more nuts like Jim Jordan to fast-talk his way through a witness’s testimony. And this time, as it was the last time, when they all line up to complain outside of the room, Nancy can always say that they weee invited but refused to participate.
I especially like that last part, "...they were invited but refused to participate." Speaks volumes.
I am most interested to see what Republicans will be appointed to the commission. And that Pelosi has the final word on it.
I think it’s important to have Republicans on the commission, because even Democrats can become hyperbolic in front of the camera. But Nancy will definitely not pick Congress critters who will act as MAGA defense attorneys through the process. I hope that at its best, the commission’s goals are results based and provide law enforcement and the Justice Dept with a path of action going forward.
My understanding is she will likely choose from those few republicans that voted to have an investigation in the first place.
I hope Murkowski is on it and Definitely not forked tongue Susie.
They’re both senators. Think Liz Cheney or the like:
https://www.google.com/amp/s/amp.cnn.com/cnn/2021/05/19/politics/house-republicans-january-6-commission/index.html
Of course!! Duh! Heat stroke here! Thanks for the correction!
I took immediate note of the reference to Ronald Reagan. The day Reagan was announced as the president, I told a coworker it was one of the darkest days in our nation's history. I intuited the darkness of Reagan. I came to call him "The Great Destroyer".
Today's column speaks volumes to me. I learned years ago that our electric grid has not been updated or modernized since the days of Dwight Eisenhower. I read how our infrastructure is forty – forty! -- years behind schedule. Reagan's and the Republican Party's travesty has resulted in a tragedy of insurmountable proportions. Reagan put a knife squarely into the back of working Americans, all the while subtly touting his racism and his hatred of gays and lesbians. (Reagan diverted MILLIONS of funds set aside for HIV/AIDS research to other programs. He and Jerry Falwell Sr. joyfully declared HIV/AIDS was "God's punishment" for being gay. The evil from that White House lives on.)
As a one who spent five decades in the private business sector after my honorable Military service, I know about the importance of planning and development. My career in real estate property management, development and construction was a continuum of learning. Structures, small and large, are assets that must be properly maintained, preserved and protected. "Our" government has failed at that along national, state and local lines. I applaud the Biden administration for its effort to regenerate the plans and practices that have been set aside for far too long.
In the meantime, we must relegate Mitch McConnell and his cabal of evildoers to the dustbin of history. To me, this is not about a particular political party. It is about good vs. evil. Republicans at large have become the body of consummate evil. When a person (McConnell) refers to themself proudly as "the Grim Reaper", we have a problem.
Reagan certainly was a disaster for our country.
And yet all of his idolators saw him as a beknighted saint.
Totally agree Vince.
Thank you, Christine. I am saddened and dismayed to see what our Republic is turning into. My dad's side arrived on the shores of the Chesapeake in the 1600s. My distant paternal grandfather fought during The American Revolutionary War with the Virginia 9th Regiment. My uncles served, WWII. Brother and brother-in-law during the Korean War. I was USAF classified Intel, Vietnam War Era. Trump and his minions, including the entire Republican Party, have injected a lethal toxin into the veins of our nation.
Yes. That’s been their idea of a vaccination. Vaccinate against progress.
Antidote? The infrastructure bills. Let’s get going!!!!
Wanted to share this with my boomer sisters and brothers:
Gee Wally - If most Republicans believe Antifa, BLM and violent left-wing activists stormed the Capitol on January 6th, then why do they oppose a commission to investigate it? (image at the link)
https://bluerootsradio.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/GeeWally.jpeg
Been saying the same thing all along! Why aren't the democrats saying this at every opportunity.
This is so badly needed. I am old enough that I remember the post WWII highway building. Rt 128, 493,495, taking down the buildings for the elevated highway through Boston, and then taking that down and re building the SE expressway underground etc, Time to rebuild our country's highways and bridges before more fall down. Time to make our train system modern, time for the wealthy to pay their share of taxes, fix up schools, have free pre-school for children, etc. This needs to happen, I will not live long enough to see all this done but my children and grandchildren will and what I wish for them is a United States that is united and a democracy that honors all inhabitants of this country. "sigh" so tired of the hatred spewed out of the mouths of so many.
Your vision for you and yours is fabulous, Fusspot!!! It is time for it to happen.
Thanks, Fusspot! I just turned 80 and these are my thoughts, too.
When you see what Trump supporters post that offer no review of our nation's physical, fiscal and functional challenges, just personal attacks and name calling. When you hear about building failures, bridge and transportation decay, water and power grid stress and breakdowns. When you hear and experience "heat domes" and heat waves at temperatures and during periods of the year that aren't just 2 degrees above normal, but 20+ degrees above normal. And then you see fires and storms that destroy billions of dollars of private and public life, land and property. You would think that Americans cannot expect to continue to ignore what we are doing to ourselves and our planet. We do have a disconnect with life that seems rooted in entertainment media that for purposes of maximizing monetary gain, has replaced all forms of education, productive work, intellectual activity and communication.
Ty David, this is part of the logic that I thought everyone on this forum recognized. It seemed to me, Biden spoke more of losing our democracy to his international peers than he does to us American voters. The assaults on our right to vote, the assaults on our freedom of speech, and freedom of peaceful assembly make my stomach turn. He has the bully pulpit, I wish he would speak about these topics.
I think Biden hopes/expects that Americans will respond to their competitive instincts that Trump also reaches to make the US great against foreign competitors. However, it appears that Republicans in particular have developed a bypass switch to ignore everything said by anybody but Trump. When Trump says foreign nations like China are competition, he adds "unfair" competition, they accept tariffs and hate speech. But when a Democrat, Independent or a Romney Republican says we must build up our national strength via investment and focused ingenuity, they call it "socialism". These switches keep McConnell, Cruz, FOX, etc able to control their narrative and puppets.
Yup, lacking in my concept of soul. He talked about it on the campaign trail, I long to hear it again.
Notice that the Alabama "rally" was cancelled? The venue called it a partisan event!! I have to wonder if these rallies are being paid for - remember? some of the earlier ones were not.
As well as our abundantly clear climate crisis! Caused by or at least aggravated by the decades long LIES and rejection of science by the corporations who held all the strings of our government. Gonna take tough leadership, I pray he is the one who can speak to these tough issues.
Have you written to tell him, Lynn. I have thought the same since his inception.
https://www.whitehouse.gov/get-involved/write-or-call/
Ty, no, been writing my crazy bought and paid for republican local , state and national representatives, was letting Joe settle in.
It takes you back to the Confederacy "cornerstone" speech by a Southern Democrat Senator laying out the "new confederate constitution, its ethos, principles and particularies posted to by TC today. Infrastructure is only to be done on a user-pay basis using private investment. It of course takes no account of the indirect and otherwise induced impact that such investment can have on society as a whole or the interraction of several such investments in generating innovation.
Another example is the building collapse in Florida - the rise of sea water in those cities? Is there really a question as to what actually was the beginning of that deterioration?
Uh let me guess, saltwater intrusion?
I havent heard that mentioned more than maybe once & very quietly. Altho, right now with the number of people likely dead in that rubble, I guess cause may not matter to many. Every time I read or hear of people in Miami "cant understand whats taking so long"? Do they have a clue how dangerous working under that building is for the firemen & rescuers? Speed would be truly dangerous.
On March 21, 1861, Alexander H. Stevens, Vice President of the newly-proclaimed Confederate States of America gave a speech in Savannah Georgia, in which he laid out what the new nation was about. The speech is known in history as The Cornerstone Speech for his extended discourse on what "the cornerstone" on which the Confederacy was founded was. (Take a guess) He also explained the economic system on which the Confederacy was founded, which is worth a read tonight, given the topic of HCR's post:
"This new constitution. or form of government, constitutes the subject to which your attention will be partly invited. In reference to it, I make this first general remark: it amply secures all our ancient rights, franchises, and liberties. All the great principles of Magna Charta are retained in it. No citizen is deprived of life, liberty, or property, but by the judgment of his peers under the laws of the land. The great principle of religious liberty, which was the honor and pride of the old constitution, is still maintained and secured. All the essentials of the old constitution, which have endeared it to the hearts of the American people, have been preserved and perpetuated. Some changes have been made. Some of these I should have preferred not to have seen made; but other important changes do meet my cordial approbation. They form great improvements upon the old constitution. So, taking the whole new constitution, I have no hesitancy in giving it as my judgment that it is decidedly better than the old.
"Allow me briefly to allude to some of these improvements. The question of building up class interests, or fostering one branch of industry to the prejudice of another under the exercise of the revenue power, which gave us so much trouble under the old constitution, is put at rest forever under the new. We allow the imposition of no duty with a view of giving advantage to one class of persons, in any trade or business, over those of another. All, under our system, stand upon the same broad principles of perfect equality. Honest labor and enterprise are left free and unrestricted in whatever pursuit they may be engaged. This old thorn of the tariff, which was the cause of so much irritation in the old body politic, is removed forever from the new.
"Again, the subject of internal improvements, under the power of Congress to regulate commerce, is put at rest under our system. The power, claimed by construction under the old constitution, was at least a doubtful one; it rested solely upon construction. We of the South, generally apart from considerations of constitutional principles, opposed its exercise upon grounds of its inexpediency and injustice. Notwithstanding this opposition, millions of money, from the common treasury had been drawn for such purposes. Our opposition sprang from no hostility to commerce, or to all necessary aids for facilitating it. With us it was simply a question upon whom the burden should fall. In Georgia, for instance, we have done as much for the cause of internal improvements as any other portion of the country, according to population and means. We have stretched out lines of railroads from the seaboard to the mountains; dug down the hills, and filled up the valleys at a cost of not less than $25,000,000. All this was done to open an outlet for our products of the interior, and those to the west of us, to reach the marts of the world. No State was in greater need of such facilities than Georgia, but we did not ask that these works should be made by appropriations out of the common treasury. The cost of the grading, the superstructure, and the equipment of our roads was borne by those who had entered into the enterprise. Nay, more not only the cost of the iron no small item in the aggregate cost was borne in the same way, but we were compelled to pay into the common treasury several millions of dollars for the privilege of importing the iron, after the price was paid for it abroad. What justice was there in taking this money, which our people paid into the common treasury on the importation of our iron, and applying it to the improvement of rivers and harbors elsewhere? The true principle is to subject the commerce of every locality, to whatever burdens may be necessary to facilitate it. If Charleston harbor needs improvement, let the commerce of Charleston bear the burden. If the mouth of the Savannah river has to be cleared out, let the sea-going navigation which is benefited by it, bear the burden. So with the mouths of the Alabama and Mississippi river. Just as the products of the interior, our cotton, wheat, corn, and other articles, have to bear the necessary rates of freight over our railroads to reach the seas. This is again the broad principle of perfect equality and justice, and it is especially set forth and established in our new constitution."
Does this economic system sound familiar? Consider Republicans back in 2014 not wanting to spend "their states' dollars" on emergency aid to New York City after Hurricane Sandy. Consider just about every economic policy put forward by Republicans in the past 40 years. "Southernomics" IS "Republican Economics."
All that pontificating about not spending others’ resources - while every single one of those “self-funded” improvements in Georgia was actually made by enslaved persons!
It makes me think of my first day in UCL in London where you will find, outside the main library, a "mummified" statue of Jeremy Bentham (1748-1832), UCL's patron and founder. His greatest contribution to economics, politics and philosophy was the idea that "what distinguished right from wrong in Society, be it civil or economic society was the creation of the greatest happiness for the greatest number of people".
John Stuart Mill (1806-1873) followed on from Bentham espousing the theory of Utilitarianism governing the economic relations between individuals in society; the greatest utility to the greatest number carried the decision as to "right and wrong". Later in life he tended towards the end of the scale that limited the power of the individual and his freedom for the greater "utility" of the people.
However, he deemed that there were exceptions and expressed them in his work "On Liberty" (1859). This book addresses the nature and limits of the power that can be legitimately exercised by society over the individual. However, Mill is clear that his concern for liberty does not extend to all individuals and all societies. He states that "Despotism is a legitimate mode of government in dealing with Barbarians." And this is the only part that the Republicans have ever understood.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Stuart_Mill
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jeremy_Bentham
Read the whole thing here - he definitely answers the question, exhaustively, about what the whole "rebellion" was all about.
https://www.battlefields.org/learn/primary-sources/cornerstone-speech
“exhaustively” is key word TC. Always felt that the longer one pontificates suggests an ability spin a lie into a comfortable truth. Long winded. Like Fox News.
True dat!
No mention here of the second charter signed at the same time "The Charter of the Forest"! The people's charter, as it was popularly called, protected the rights of the people against their abuse by the King, the Barons and the Bourgeoisie and not just sorting out the relationship of those already in power.
Ahhh. That’s another thing. The slave owners viciously punished any attempts for the enslaved to learn to read and write. No chance of them writing a charter.
The Barons were no happier with restrictions placed on their rapacity and abuse of "their" peasants who were often little better than slaves and sought to defend their 'Commons" rights from privatization. Often this was all that kept them alive.
And then in the 18th Century, with the "Enclosure movement" it was said that "The man who stole a goose from the commons was transported to America, while the man who stole the commons from the goose was transported to Parliament."
Morning, all!! Morning, Dr. R!! There is so much that needs fixin', and it'll always be that way. I get the sense Biden is picking his battles with due diligence.
Last Sunday (6/27/21) on Meet the Press, Joshua Johnson made what to me was a compelling comment regarding the infrastructure bill. Referring to the horrific event in Surfside, Florida, he said, "There's nothing like a disaster to focus the mind. I have never spent a night in a building and wondered whether or not it was going to hold me up by morning." He also cited a National Institute of Building Sciences report, to wit, "For every dollar you spend on hazard mitigation you save $6.00 on disaster relief." Also, "...so I understand all these political calculi that are playing, but there's nothing like a disaster to remind the American people the home you sleep in may not stand by morning, and there's something you can do about it." https://www.nbcnews.com/meet-the-press-full-episodes (Quote at around 34:05)
I don't know why I deleted the story I was reading yesterday about the folks in West Virginia who once a week drive to a water source and fill up their tanks for their next week's water supply. Here's what I did find in its place. It's in video form...happy, happy! (NBC News from a week ago) https://www.bing.com/videos/search?q=news+about+west+virginians+who+have+to+get+their+water+from+a+creekek&docid=608035578158713164&mid=8FA9F61BAC211BDCA25B8FA9F61BAC211BDCA25B&view=detail&FORM=VIRE
Good morning, Lynell! Here's the link from the WAPO story. Unfortunately, water insecurity is a nationwide issue not confined to rural dwellers. I'm including links from a couple of articles I've read over the last couple years.
https://www.washingtonpost.com/national/after-generations-of-hauling-water-a-corner-of-appalachia-still-waits-for-a-better-future/2021/06/27/e7b52ff4-d49a-11eb-ae54-515e2f63d37d_story.html
https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2019-08-06/where-americans-lack-running-water-mapped
https://www.pnas.org/content/117/46/28700
Ahh, thank you, Daria! I can't imagine what it is like to live without running water. It humbles me to know that others do.
What surprised me was learning of the number of urban dwellers who lack running water. I was familiar with the issues on reservations and in rural areas but I had no idea the number of folks in apartment buildings living without water or bathroom facilities. Every time I learn of a basic infrastructure deficit that people live without (not of their own choosing) I wonder who we really are as a nation. Who are the landlords who rent these dwellings? Who are the inspectors who pass these buildings? Why are there people so poor and desperate that they have to live like that? What about the treaties that have been swept under the rugs for centuries?
Obviously, I have no answers other than it behooves folks to vote wisely so our leaders are concerned about the welfare of all the people, that they have access to not just basics like water but that they also have safe dwellings. And, obviously, as proven last week, the amount of money one pays for a dwelling does not guarantee its safety.
I may be naive, Daria, but I firmly believe Biden is the man for the job; I firmly believe he will try his heart out for all of us; I firmly believe he is a man of substance, not fluff.
Water, water nowhere near and not a drop to drink! Bright and bushy tailed and full of info. Thank you, Lynell.
And let's not forget TFG's environmental damage by saying it was OK to allow coal ash poisoned water to be dumped into streams and rivers. https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/trump-rsquo-s-epa-made-it-easier-for-coal-plants-to-pollute-waterways/
Just imagine the California Central Valley if we didn't pipe water over the Sierra Nevadas and other ranges. No more fruit and vege production! Drought in the mountains and on the prairies is anyway taking us there. You can't pipe water if the rain hasn't fallen or the "locals" serve their own needs first in times of shortage.
Stuart, you're mistaken about where water for the Central Valley comes from - it's water from northern California. But you're absolutely correct about the picture for the future as the drought continues to grow.
"Central Valley Project In the 1930s, the federal government got involved, building the Central Valley Project (CVP) to support the arid but fertile Central Valley and its agricultural economy. Built by the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, the CVP transports water from Lake Shasta in the north to Bakersfield in the southern San Joaquin Valley."
Colorado River water is pumped over the southern mountains to the Metropolitan Water District (LA) whence it's distributed to subsidiary members and other regions which pay the Met for water sent to them (such as San Diego). https://water.ca.gov/Water-Basics/The-California-Water-System
Judith, many thanks for the correction of my geography, my climatolgy and its effect on human settlement and agricultural production stands however for the rgions for which you have applied it.
You're welcome. I'm more informed than the average Californian because I took up the offer of two multi-day tours operated in partnership with the Metropolitan Water District (MWD) and the SD County Water Authority. One is a tour along the State Water Project from Oroville Dam south past the Sacramento Delta and various reservoirs en route, 3 days/2 nts, in 2008 when there also was a severe drought and Lake Oroville had a huge 'bathtub ring' though not as great as today's. We flew to Sacramento, bus up to Oroville Dam then south to fly home from San Jose. The other was along the Colorado River from Hoover Dam and back to San Diego in 2014, again 3 days/2 nts, by bus (after flight to Las Vegas). Both were eye-opening.
What percent of the Colorado River hits the Pacific Ocean? 0%
Tiny fractions and not consistently. This 2019 article is informative but the reality is changing rapidly despite a 2021 "pulse flow" that began on May 1 to continue into October. We'll see... https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2019/oct/21/the-lost-river-mexicans-fight-for-mighty-waterway-taken-by-the-us
Thanks Lynell. The mining companies still rape West Virginia, and poison West Virginians.
I don't believe in a literal Hell -- I think we make our own Heaven or Hell here on Earth -- but if I did, I'd be certain that one of the hottest places in Hell is reserved for McConnell.
From Richard Stone at sciencemag.org:
"Death Valley holds the record for the highest air temperature on the planet: On 10 July 1913, temperatures at the aptly named Furnace Creek area in the California desert reached a blistering 56.7°C (134.1°F). Average summer temperatures, meanwhile, often rise above 45°C (113°F).
"But when it comes to surface temperature, two spots have Death Valley beat. A new analysis of high-resolution satellite data finds the Lut Desert in Iran and the Sonoran Desert along the Mexican-U.S. border have recently reached a sizzling 80.8°C (177.4°F)."
Portland OR with 115 was giving Death Valley a run for its money. (Stay cool, folks in Portland!)
As was Seattle yesterday (115). Finally last night brought wind and coolness. In for more today it seems.
When the "heart" like does not convey the sympathy intended
That was HOT, Sharon, and it delighted me.
This is off topic, briefly, because watching a program last night of coverage on the collapse of the condo in Surfside called for attention to the families waiting. Having learned about the nature of this collapse, hope does not appear realistic. We can be with the families in spirit.
A big leap now to our president. It seemed as though I was seeing a page from a book by Heather Cox Richardson when I read this piece. Truly, I couldn’t believe my eyes, until I could:
‘The larger story, which often gets lost in the daily news cycle, is the enduring scale of Biden’s ambition. Simply put, he is trying to remake American domestic policy in a way rarely seen outside wartime. Looking at the scale of his proposals to tackle climate change, expand the social safety net, and check rising income inequality, the only comparable Democratic initiatives are the New Deal and the Great Society. Even those comparisons are a bit misleading: F.D.R. and Lyndon Johnson both enjoyed large majorities on Capitol Hill. Biden’s Democrats have a narrow, nine-vote majority in the House, while in the Senate he must rely on his Vice-President to break a tie. That’s if he can cajole the likes of Joe Manchin and Kyrsten Sinema into supporting him.
Pulling off this double-play is a mighty challenge, but Biden seems fully committed to doing so.’ (The New Yorker by John Cassidy) See the link below:
https://www.newyorker.com/news/our-columnists/the-big-story-is-still-joe-bidens-mighty-ambitions
https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/collapsed-florida-building-residents-told-it-was-safe-despite-major-n1272507
“I couldn’t believe my eyes until I could.” Exactly, Fern. Thank you for sharing article. Good start overcoming wearisome constant criticism of Biden even from supporters of democracy.
Nothing can work until something works. Geez!
Cannot help but to say, take 3 minutes to celebrate Impossible, until it’s not : https://youtu.be/uAl9xT4ZRbU
Great song, Cathy, for our time!
Yes. Carrie Newcomer has a gift. Glad she wrote songs to share it.
Morning, Fern!! Never off topic for you. It all connects; we all are connected.
Yes, crucial to stay connected.
I would suggest that this is a war of a different kind.
The president himself declared it a war against the Covid virus and brought all powers he has to bear on it.
Hi Christy, Please explain what you mean by 'this is a war of a different kind'?
Hi Fern. I’m making a reference to your comment: “Simply put, he is trying to remake American domestic policy in a way rarely seen outside wartime.” I believe Biden is cognizant and working diligently to save democracy from anti democratic forces. I also hope and believe that in the age of Atomic bombs, that “wars” will be waged very differently.
“In the United States, we most often speak about disinformation in terms of its meaning for democracy because the problem entered our collective conscience during the 2016 elections. However, for Russia, disinformation is intimately tied to the military sphere as well. While democratic governments tend to see the world as being either in a state of war or at peace, the communist view did not dichotomize these conditions and instead contended that all political activity inherently involves conflict. Most contemporary Russian experts who study information warfare believe that Russia and its adversaries use these tactics during both war and peace, and that the current Russian leadership considers itself to be in an information confrontation with the United States.” https://www.lawfareblog.com/why-does-russia-use-disinformation
Christy, Your reply touches upon a dimension in current forms of information - disinformation that have not been approached by LFAA, to my knowledge. I have not yet read the lawfare article and don't know whether our economic competition with China and its role in disinformation has a place in your consideration of Biden's multilayered efforts to recharge American Democracy. The American Families Act is a pivotal aspect of this mission. I am pressed to do my work, so not yet prepared to provide you with a proper response, Your thoughts are now on my schedule, and I will get back to you with a more in a couple of days. This reply of yours is a gem. I hope you do not hesitate to write out your thoughts on the forum. Work like this cause us to dig more deeply into the forces that effect our lives and consider what our approaches to them might be. Thank you, Christy.
Wow this is just out from Ruth Ben-Ghiat’s substack:
“War is being waged on the collective mind of America, not just by Russia and China, but by the infotainment complex that includes Fox News, lesser right-wing outlets and an army of trolls, which has convinced 30 to 40% of the American electorate that Donald Trump is the legitimate president of the United States. The American Republic did live under the constant threat, remote as it may have been, of nuclear annihilation for many years, but we've now gotten to the point that the only thing that can destroy this country is ourselves.” Interview with Tim Weiner on Lucid
Thank you, Christy. I will follow up. I suspected that there has been disinformation coming from sources in addition to Russia,, along with treasonous characters in our government, Trump & Co., much within our walls as well as the cyber wars. The penetration of disinformation and domestic terrorists have produced fire, fire everywhere. My deep discomfort with a troll or trolls on the Forum and enablers here, who do not recognize them as such and cry censorship and or see them as a source for learning indicate how close they are and how difficult it is to demagnetize them.
Thank you for your encouragement ❤️. I have not read anywhere near the same amount on our relations with China, but from what little I see they appear more competitive than subversive but I really cannot speak to our relations with China, though I have some books on my list. I hope your work flows smoothly and you are rewarded with satisfaction. Thank you again.
Off topic but wasn’t sure of the best way to contact you.
This is a very well written article which, while humorous, illustrates how close we are to a second war of secession.
https://m.riverfronttimes.com/newsblog/2021/06/28/inside-gun-surrendering-criminal-mark-mccloskeys-very-sad-st-louis-rally
Urf, Tim: as a MO resident (other side of the state in rather more sane KC) I am well aware of the combination of "deeply stupid" and "utterly unhinged" figures who have decided to run for Roy Blunt's seat (check out the looney-tunes grifter Eric Greitens). This is a very funny article, but alas not so divorced from reality not to be worrisome. However, with the likes of McCloskey on the ticket we might have another Troy Akin moment, if the Dems run a reasonable campaign with a strong candidate.
Sorry: Todd Akin. I get my pols and sports figures mixed up . . .
S'okay. We knew exactly who you meant.
"Pink shirt guy." Haha that's EXACTLY how I think of him!
OMG Hysterical writing. I went down the cited rabbit holes. What pond scum.
Tim, this article is hilarious. Thanks so much for posting!
"Tens of admirers" LOL
Now that is funny! Thanks for the read this morning!
Hysterical! Thank you.
Hysterical.
Took a vacation from life and the news. I felt safe to do so for the first time in years, trusting that others would pay attention. I came back to messages like this from HCR that speak of work to be done, positive work beyond the continuing need to protect democracy. Perhaps the tide has finally turned towards a better shore. Good morning everyone.
Good morning, Jan. It’s good this forum is news you can count on coming back to.
It has become the morning reference source for my husband and myself. "What did Heather say today?" as though she was a wise neighbor.
Heather, thank you so much for this letter - especially the explanation of the two-track infrastructure bill. I thought I'd lost my mind when the Republicans acted stunned and amazed that the plan was to have two tracks for the bills, and that the Democrats would present the second bill and pass it through reconciliation. I knew that had been discussed at length on television prior to the bipartisan bill's approval, and couldn't reconcile the righteous indignation of the Republicans at being "deceived" by Biden. Even CNN and MSNBC were glad to throw Biden under the bus and never mention that this plan was common knowledge to anyone who was paying an attention. It frustrates that the media stirs the pot by pointing to Biden's missteps, after what this country has been through the last five years, and Mitch McConnell's malevolent behavior since 2010. I'm not blind to the fact that Joe Biden isn't perfect, but he began before he was even sworn into office to try to put this country back together, and I believe the media is obligated to tell the truth. The Republicans knew exactly what they were agreeing to, and so did the press.
I love it that McCarthy has "consultation rights" only. That means no one the likes of Jim Jordan or Lauren Boebert can be on this "select" committee. I hope McCarthy is soiling his pants as he awaits being called to testify. The truth shall set us free, or in his case get him thrown out of office. And, McTurtleneck is as sly as he can be, but someday he's going to get caught in his own trap. Can't wait.
Meanwhile, these are such big issues that everyone goes on break first. The Dems have honed the art of slow-walking to its finest point. https://nader.org/2021/06/25/leaves-must-be-canceled-all-hands-on-the-congressional-deck/
Thanks for posting this, Cate. They need to sit their hind ends down in their respective chambers and get to work.
You the voter, the constituent, are the fuel and weight politicians need to side with Biden.
Great letter from Mr. Nader! And I haven't heard Senator Proxmire's name in ages. Thanks for this post. I took down the phone number to call my reps.
Polititions use holidays and breaks to connect to voters. Go to your local 4th of July parade, and the barbecue afterwards. Make an appointment. Let your voice be heard. And heard. And heard.
I think one of us is living through the looking glass. Here, our pols are dialing and dealing for dollars, holding private events, and, if you manage to get a question, mouthing complete and utter bs that has no relation to reality. And that's the so-called Democrat.
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Good morning, Professor! We are getting closer to a true renewal in the US. The Retrumplicans are even taking the time to attack you here. McConnell is sputtering like a gas engine trying to run on diesel. When the wealthy start paying their taxes and companies begin paying their "fair" share and those green jobs fatten the payroll tax, we won't be spending into the red.