Let's face facts and follownthe spirit on Mainets There is only so much we can expect from our Democratic leadership. We the People need to take the fight against Trump/Musk/MAGA,MAHA/and the To Rich to Care GOP straight to the streets. We need to start big protest marches, a national work stopping strike, a tax revolt, blocking Musk workers from getting into Federal buildings, keep booing Vance and his wife, interfere with ICE raids, block RFK jr's offices and so forth.
We are the only ones who can save ourselves and the nation we love. And the time is NOW!!
I hope your partner gets their job back. My husband is a scientist at a university and they have not been paid from their grants since December. These are grants that they already got. He is going to have to retire earlier than he had planned to because of this. My friend's son works for NOAA, he and all his colleagues were fired. My friend who works for an environmental organization says none of their contractors are being paid by the government for work they have already done, that was approved by the government. Also, the invasive species they were removing, was not fully removed so it is all coming back and the work done up to now is all for naught. Someone I know whose sister is a doctor for the VA is losing her funding. I think we should be gathering all of these stories in one place and be sharing them.
I absolutely agree about gathering and documenting the stories of all who have lost jobs and their livelihoods. These stories need to be told en masse to the public at large to spotlight just how much and how many people are being affected by the insanity that now rules the country. They are not just random anonymous people, they make up the fabric of our country - that is being ripped apart.
Who can we approach to start the collection of the stories of fired individuals? I was thinking people with wide exposure like Steven Colbert, Jimmie Kimmel, John Stewart. Or maybe some Democrat politicians who want to help the resistance.
Sorry, but it’s Democratic politicians, not Democrat politicians. The two letters are important. For decades, Republicans have called it “the Democrat Party.” It is a slur, intended to show that we do not deserve respect enough for them to remember the name of our party. Don’t play into that.
Jon I agree with you. It is indeed the Democratic Party. It is also not the Dems. The larger issue is where does the Democratic Party go from here? It appears the Democratic Party Leaders are wandering in the wilderness. The Party is not nimble enough to meet the times. So glad to see the activism of Sanders, AOC, Crockett, and Walz. I challenge the Democratic Party former Presidents to stop hiding behind tradition and come out and raise hell with us.
I've heard this before, but it was 'Democratic' that was the slur. I feel either one is fine. We are Democrats. (Actually, 'democratic' sounds kind of like one who leans toward democracy, i.e., democrat-ish.) Oh, holy cow, we have more important things to resolve. :)
Jon, thank you for making that correction. It is important that we demand and receive respect. Republicans have forgotten most of the civilities well, just because they think it looks tough for them to act like thugs; it isn't tough, just rude and insensitive.
On a webinar with our Minnesota senators recently, Amy Klobuchar asked people to send her stories of what is happening to people because of Musk/Trump. Those stories will be used in the lawsuits that are going forward to stop the madness. Send stories to Sen. Klobuchar.
Good point, Melinda. I also urge anyone directly affected by DOGE actions to check out any lawsuits that may be relevant & where they may be able to participate/assist/contribute.
NYT tracks them (you may need to set up a subs - free or paid - to access):
There was a time when klobuchar would personally go out into the world of the hoi polloi to gather these stories. I was following a thread and people said it impossible to reach her. One woman responded she could speak directly to her, or have her calls quickly returned. I thought it was odd, so I checked her profile . She was director of The League of Women Voters. I'm a constituent. I have one vote. She's a constituent. She has one vote. But............
i think we need to set these stories in right wing media and newspapers across the country. Back when I wrote for a newspaper, things like the AP was picked up and reprinted across the nation. Heather, please guide us how to write a story and get it printed accross the country. The key is to talk to people who voted for Trump ... the slavery analogy is indeed an important one. re: Tahisi Coates. The Message.
Absolutely! I have only one question and that is: How and where would these collected facts and stories be told? The willfully uneducated and the non-caring shoulder shruggers don't choose to read, watch news, or think. They bury their heads in the gossiping social media where conspiracy stories go to mutate and spread. I wish I knew how to reach those but I think only when it becomes personal--when the social security check doesn't arrive, or eggs cost $20. a dozen, or they cannot take a vacation in a national park because it is closed, or more and more devastatingly hot summers and fires and flooding are the norm and FEMA is no longer funder--well maybe then they will rise up and say "Enough?" But don't count on it. The kool-aid they have taken is pretty strong.
I agree with you - there was some famous quote from the 70’s I believe - something about people won’t care about air pollution until it interferes with their TV reception.
imagine if we acted without passion in the 70's. music and activists were major part of stopping the war in Vietnam... the immolation of the monk. Pessimism has no place in the conversation today. I hope upon reflection, you agree. Heather's entire point is that there were a few people that inspired a nation!!!
I agree in general but while there are absolutely the willfully uneducated there are also those uneducated by circumstance (their family culture, cultural environment and the inability to read well). Literacy rate for the U.S. in reading comprehension is at a 7th grade level or Below! for a large portion of the country and that is a huge issue. However, people like to hear stories, especially stories they can relate to such as loss of jobs, loss of health care, unable to pay rent/ mortgages and struggling to put food on the table. Stories can shed a light far greater than reading a thoughtful measured article for the uneducated.
You are absolutely correct. But therein lies the ongoing problem of how to rea h those who might like to hear the stories but either don't know where to look or hear those stories.
Yes, I fully acknowledge that's a problem. And it will take some creative and savvy problem solving to address it. I don't think the people we would hope to reach would even consider actively looking for these stories, it's simply not in their frame of reference. It would take a coordinated effort to flood the media with these stories to catch their attention and perhaps initiate their curiosity enough to ask themselves why - and how - this is happening. They aren't inclined to come to Substack to read lengthy discussions but they would watch TikTok, Instagram and the like.
One might think that Trump would receive more resistance if more of us can look at his behavior, the facts, and where we stand in the course of human events.
Trump’s popularity, although under water, is way too high for what is happening.
19th century American history is still reflected in today’s America. Parties are reversed.
Is she part of StandUpForScience2025. If not, can you have her reach out. They are a youth led group making progress. They have a website. Protests were quickly and well-organized last week.
I support this idea, but Substack has too limited an audience, as does BlueSky. These stories need to be displayed on a freestanding website. Then, all other media can be used to point to that website.
Once can create a “standalone” website in Substack, which is how I read most that I follow. In other words, I don’t use the app (too busy), and go directly to the authors’ page, which can have a distinct URL sans Substack. I don’t know how it’s done, but I can’t imagine it’s too difficult.
Trump got richer by not paying people and contractors for work they did so this doesn’t surprise me in the least. I totally agree with you that the information about the people and programs that are being destroyed should be gathered and shared. Perhaps on MSNBC or NPR? Or written up in newspapers and magazines…I know since some of these outlets have been taken over, it may be difficult. But we have to start somewhere.
NPR. The govt no longer supports. They are one great way ie Stories from the Stage.
Another could be a challenge to The NY Times to do this. Or, The Guardian, but I deeply doubt the maggots read it.
I’m going to call The NY Times on 3/17 to challenge them in a hopefully-very-nice way to print a story of a person affected by this maladministration’s policies.
As always I thank HCR for her becoming a shining light scholar, and her brilliant readers’ comments. I have learned so much snd it has pushed me to become ‘active’
not only posting here, but taking action each day in some way.
BAY COUNTY, Fla. (WMBB) – According to a public information statement by the National Weather Service, the Tallahassee NOAA Weather Radio input was lost earlier Saturday afternoon.
A trouble ticket has been opened to address the issue. In the meantime, TLH will be down until further notice, officials wrote in a statement.
The National Weather Service has issued a forecast warning of strong thunderstorms, damaging winds, and the threat of large tornadoes.
Theses (their) stories need to be shared. These are our family, friends, and neighbors. People need to read and hear from those impacted. It will be powerful.
It should be obvious to all by now that these denials of funds already appropriated and the stoppage of projects already in progress are necessary so that the billionaires can add to their already-accumulated fortunes. We common folks shouldn't be so greedy or resentful. The oligarchs need vast amounts of wealth as much as any of us need food and water. Their appetite for wealth is insatiable and there is nothing that they won't do to achieve it, including letting people starve (i.e., demolition of USAID.)
I am not an expert on using Substack for communication. I just subscribed to you. Would like to help you organize your project or make sure it finds a home. I went to the Stand up for Science March a little over a week ago and even marched and gave not gotten well integrated yet, but am still trying. Going to another Indivisible meeting today.
Good for you & us, Kimberly, and as John Lewis would say "good trouble."
As I understand it our elected officials know they are being informed by the people on the street. They know that every pair of feet on the ground is a vote. And even though it may not seem like it - I mean geez if they know how we feel why don't they do something or at least tell us what they're going to do? - they hear us. As a former elected official, I promise you they hear us.
Any Republican intent on keeping their job knows they must toe the (Party) line; any Democrat intent on keeping their oath to our Constitution must hold the (legal) line.
Thank you for showing up & please keep it up as your time allows.
I agree with your statement that we should be gathering these stories together. I think a place to start would be “Standupforscience2025”. Please go to the website and start evaluating possibilities. In the meantime, write up the stories you have. I have evaluated multiple science organizational movements, but think this is the strongest I have seen so far and has the most momentum.
Linda. Do you have the bandwidth to start organizing those in this thread? Collete Wismer has a daughter already organizing stories. Standupforscience2025 is already connected to Indivisible who is connected to Rachel Maddow. You get the pattern. Feel free to reach out to me if you want to talk.
👏 Nicely crafted poem, PS, honoring our national treasure, HCR. I like that folks are increasingly making “good trouble” in the streets and town halls & capitol steps to support our democracy and free and fair elections…bet it brings her a smile, as it does me!
You are not the only one smiling Barbara. I just arrived at Paris and I'm smiling for that and many other reasons like just hanging a great croissant 🥐.
Chamberlain is one of my heroes. Visited Bowdoin and Little Round Top within a week of each other Nice comparison. We need more like him to step up and take the lead.
Thank you for shining a light on the good work of Heather Cox Richardson with your poem. Wonderful. I am sorry your partner has lost their job. What is happening to our civil servants is shameful.
Great poem, TY. Heather was my first introduction to this tribe of servants , she a historian made my lack of history awaken and become fascinated not just what she wrote but that in between the lines was so genuinely humble offers of detail, comparisons, education of critical thought . Being a fellow Mainer ( pronounced Mainah, btw) I felt a sister kinship and today mention of Joshua Chamberlain-ness she is now familia , he being a many great uncle of mine.
So many never reach these ‘heights’ yet in their perceived smallness labor away providing the fuel that keeps mankind learning ,acknowledging stumbles or rocky roads , but rowing the boat anyhow .
It’s why I say no effort of good intent is small, it by far keeps the lights on…and thank you for that …all of you🫶
"...only so much we can expect?" I expect new leaders.
Schumer needs a double-billed baseball cap with this caption: "I'm their (minority) leader. Which way did they go?"
The only "reason" for him, Durbin, et al. to vote for the bill is that they're constitutionally (haha) incapable of messaging and making it clear that the shutdown is on Republicans.
Indivisible leaders nationwide voted 91% today to demand that Schumer step aside as minority leader. Everyone, call your Democratic senators to demand that they go public to call for new leadership and do all they can to get Schumer to quit. He's on book tour even as we're all sweating it out for our country.
I thought Schumer made sense when he said that if the government were shut down, T and E would have even more opportunity to get rid of workers while they were furloughed, and since the courts would be closed we could do even less about it. I don't think Schumer is the villain here. He made an unpopular decision, bravely, whether you agree with it or not.
I'm not a fan of Schumer in the Senate or Jeffries in the House. Neither are the leaders the Democrats need. However, I agree that shutting down the government -- more shut down than it already because of Trump/Musk stupidity -- is a very bad idea. It is also very expensive to shut down the government and, eventually, start it up again.
I agree with you, except for the part about Trump/Musk "stupidity". That is too kind. It EVIL, created by evil people who know exactly what they are doing.
John, I imagine this was an agonizing decision on many levels…I know I was on the razor’s edge of what might be, ultimately, the best outcome, despite the lousy choices. One tell, for me, was that Mump WANTED the shutdown…and I could just envision them rubbing their greedy little hands together at how they would monetize and assert even more control as a result. I guess time will tell how it all crumbles, cookie wise.
If it had been a binary choice, I might have agreed with it….ah, probably not, Merkley and Wyden are my Senators. It just didn’t need to be the binary choice Schumer forced it to be. Dems could have used the shutdown to leverage a discussion about other options re: the CR. It could have meant some of the worst cuts coming out of the bill. But that option was no longer viable, and the bill ended up passing, with horrid consequences to those on the poor ends of the spectrum.
Those who are on Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid are now royally screwed at least until the end of September, if not for the rest of This presidency, and the youngest and poorest among us are now on a much shakier footing than just two months ago. Hunger, health care (lack of) and homelessness will now be on a sharper rise than during the pandemic, or the depression of 2007. Joblessness will create more crises than our current and soon to be dismantled mental health system can keep up with.
Dominoes are about to start falling all because of Schumer’s decisions and the lack of negotiations that could take place. I’m so proud of what my fellow citizens are doing to ouch back, because it has been working. I am beyond fury that Schumer allowed and led some of our Senators to walk back from fighting for our democracy as they swore an oath to do.
I don’t know if Trump and Musk truly wanted a shutdown but I do know that whatever the outcome they were going to put it to use. The Democrats had absolutely no leverage on this matter. None. The practical outcome was going to be pretty much the same no matter how the vote turned out. But by avoiding a shutdown they at least avoided giving the Republicans a hook on which to hang the coming recession.
I am persuaded by this reply as I read that Musk is likely finagling his way to push Verizon out of a contract, replacing Verizon with .I think it might be in Alaska…but, then baby steps. He hasn’t exactly been a stellar success with his space program, his cars don’t really stand the test of time (a good and her husband had one of the first), his trucks have been banned in England (which showed crash tests in which the damage to the passenger compartment was horrible - and the trucks are ~6800 lbs empty, and there is a funny short YouTube video showing one stuck in snow while cars can navigate…). Better to keep the “rats” out in bright daylight…
This wasn't a vote on the bill. It was a vote to close debate and vote on the bill. Dems had no input into the bill. If Republicans object to Dems insisting that THEIR constituents be heard, tough.
Something can make sense and still not be the best decision. That's what "tough decisions" are about. These mopes didn't decide, they caved.
It's his earlier decision, Elene, which galls most.
This, when he was Senate majority leader, and could have called a vote as the Constitution explicitly says as to disqualifying the fat, orange, waddling, hate-instigating traitor.
The highest court in the land has no role in it at all, as the Constitution says. Any insurrectionist can have that legality decided by a vote in either or both houses of Congress. Both by 2/3 vote need to free one of disqualification. If either house votes alone, however, and an insurrectionist fails to get the 2/3, that person's status is legally set and disqualification from public office is final.
Schumer, the fool, did not uphold the Constitution. Schumer gave us the convicted criminal now in the White House, with all his mad pals and his criminality, insanity, madness, and sycophancy from all MAGA only turning more venomous, worsening.
Phil, let’s go back a bit in time and lay the original sin on McConnell who refused & directed most, if not all, of his party to decline to convict on either of Trump’s impeachments….the second being, to me, the more democracy crushingly serious.
It's not that simple. Trump has never been legally found to be an insurrectionist. It was a tied Senate when Schumer was Leader and I'm not certain he could have gotten even all Democrats to vote for disqualification. In addition, the Republicans would have likely filibustered. Trump surely would have challenged any such action by Congress and the Supreme Court would have had the role of interpreting the 14th amendment. I'm no Schumer fan, but think your premise is not realistic or fair.
Article 14 Section Three's words are explicitly clear, NanceeM. If the Senate voted, his constitutional disqualification would have been final.
Republicans would have gone on forever with filibuster?
And you know, too, you err when you forget Colorado after due process legally found Trump an insurrectionist. Not even the Clarence court attempted to deny that fact and its legality.
Elene, I've heard that argument as well. If a federal shutdown closed the courts, we'd have no line of defense against the outrageous actions from.the Oval Office. Im.noy as angry at Shumer as others are.
The courts are doing a great job now, at the careful pace that justice requires. That's some of the most cheering news of the day. I have also heard that organizations, with their lawyers in front, are blocking DOGE access.
I was torn. My heart yelled shut it the f... down! I'm willing, consequences be damned. My executive brain function said no, even more people will be acutely devastated, the hurt will be too vast. Grave missteps by the Democrats have had a long unfortunate history. Damned if you do, damned if you don't. I'm still torn. I want a really strong third party.
I agree Elene! I was disappointed though not particularly surprised when AOC joined in the castigation of Schumer’s for his vote but was especially surprised when Nancy Pelosi joined in the negative chorus! These are people to all of whom I pay attention. I suppose this diversity of opinion is what makes the Democrats what they are as a party.
No, it was a cowardly cave in. T and M are now dumping workers like potatoe chips, there would be no difference. We have no government now, just an elite mafia.
After I read Heather's March 14 post on the CR vote, I could understand that the Democrats were maneuvered into an impossible situation - acquiesce to the CR and give Trump more power for 6 months, or shut down the government and give Trump total power indefinitely (which appears to be what he wanted). I imagine there were back room discussions to decide which Democrats would step in front of the firing squad.
It is very difficult to try to support a rules-based system when one party simply ignores the rules, or makes up new ones out of whole cloth to suit their agenda. As has been said before, the Democrats may try to play chess, but the Republicans just "eat the pieces".
Ellen here-I understood that Schumer started to imply the courts would be affected and stopped himself because the courts would NOT be affected by this particular CR. Heard this on Robert Hubbell's substack.
The courts would not be closed but that doesn't mean their work would continue unimpeded. Judicial decisions are only as good as the actions that come from them; actions that must be executed by agencies that could be shut down in a government shutdown.
LaurieOregon, "Indivisible" caught my eye. My wife and I joined in December, 2024. She helped organize a new Indivisible group here in rural northern Minnesota that month. 50 people attended our first monthly meeting, about 120 came the second month and now we're at about 350 very active members and have outgrown our church Fellowship Hall venue.
Other Indivisible groups in more densely populated areas around us are growing faster. After one of those groups attracted roughly 400 protesters to a rally at our local Republican Congressman's office here in Minnesota CD-8, we organized a second demonstration at the same place that attracted about the same number of people.
Previously I had thought "Indivisible" seemed more like "Invisible" but they're very helpful and are growing fast. My wife was in on their zoom meeting when they voted to ask Schumer to step aside.
Your Indivisible group sounds wonderful! Kudos to you and the other members. I recommend Leah and Ezra's "What's the Plan" Q&A webinars on Thursday's at noon - lots of basic info, strategy, and energy. Sign up here: https://indivisible.org/indivisible-trainings
Unfortunately my Democratic Senator is turncoat Fetterman. What a disappointment he is. I wrote him to demand he vote NO on the budget bill and I got some drivel in response.
Although it was a difficult decision , but majority should have prevailed and presented a unified opinion, the division in the party will be exploited,, still thinking of the CR vote
Thank you for letting me know. I don't agree that Schumer should step aside because that creates a leadership vacuum that cannot be filled by anyone currently in the Senate. Do I wish the Democratic Senators would identify & choose a different leader? Hell, yeah. But that leader has not yet emerged & pretending otherwise is a danger we can't afford.
At the risk of blowback, I'm going to say that I see this demand for another leader very similar to how I saw the demand for Biden to step aside. Party leadership miscalculated the number of votes they would keep when they pushed to replace Biden. Again, would I have wanted a next generation President? Hell, yeah! Even campaigned for Harris as vigorously as I did for Biden. But it wasn't long after the National Convention & based on my experiences on the campaign trail, my gut told me to start planning how to manage a second Trump administration & re-acquaint myself with Project 2025.
Getting back to Schumer, I can't help but believe that every step/word/vote he took/made was intentional & that all Democratic Senators knew each before he proceeded. If any of the rank-&-file had collectively a better idea or Leader, Schumer would have worked within those parameters. I assume a different plan with at least 75% of Senators on board did not exist, so Schumer did the best he could with what he had.
The most important thing right now is unity in the Democratic Party. The Democrats can only be powerful if they support each other. It is the Republican party that is allowing this to happen. We’ve got to put some of the blame where the blame lies not just with Trump, but the Republican Congress.
Unity is great -- but the unity here needs a fighting spirit not a go-along-to-get-along spirit. Chris Murphy, AOC, Jasmin Crockett, Bernie Sanders - these are the ones standing up and standing out. Schumer and Jeffries do not have that spirit and it's dragging the whole party down.
I am amazed that so many here are critical of Schumer for choosing the least terrible choice.
Trump/Musk were drooling at the prospect of a government shutdown, where they would be give carte blanche to dismantle every department and fire everyone at will.
How can you possibly blame Schumer, King, Peters for saving tens of thousands of essential government jobs?
There WILL be someone that rises up against Trump, but he tanking the economy right now. We need to let him.
We can help by NOT supporting the oligarchs. Only spend what you have to and don't buy from the oligarchs. This includes the lame stream media like The NY Times, WAPO, USA Today, Fox News etc. If they advertise it, don't buy it.
Yes. This! I wonder whether we are being riled up by trolls to keep us distracted and ineffective. We don’t need to get rid of Schumer. We need to get rid of Trump!
I am sickened by his actions not just on that, but Durbin's inability to start impeachment against this supreme court. He is a huge coward, and doddering idiot if he thinks that promising the House to do one course of action, and then backing down last minute breaking the strategy that the House and Senate Dems had agreed on, and having them put themselves out there, and then not doing the same. I asked Durbin to resign. I hope that others from Illinois do the same.
Only Schumer and Fetterman voted for the continuing resolution. The others just voted to end debate and then they voted against the bill. Your heart is in the right place but how can we figure out what to do if we can’t bother to find out how the Senate actually works and what actually happened? I also would say that the difference in consequences between a clean CR, this crappy CR and shutting down the government are extremely small. This was no hill to die on.
"Democrats in the upper chamber have largely refused to give Republicans the votes needed to clear a procedural hurdle and pass the temporary spending bill until they get a vote on their amendment calling for a shorter-term version that would provide funds through April instead of September." USA Today, March 13.
Why was this impossible? If Repubs refused to negotiate, it's clear evidence of who's causing the problem. Negotiations on the amendment should have been on-going (and settled) BEFORE the CR got to the Senate. A couple of extra hours, and it's still done in 1 day.
1. Vote against cloture.
2. Bring up Dem. amendment for vote.
3. Vote on amendment. If it's "No," have press releases ready to gox.
4. Vote for cloture.
5. Pass the CR.
Fetterman seems to think he has to vote Republican. since his state's electoral votes went to Trump. Maybe that stroke did more damage than thought.
Imo Schumer and Durbin can't find their way out of a closet with a flashlight.
Agreed. We are the only ones who can save ourselves. This has been clear for 2 months now. I see the tax revolt as being blue states, as a form of financial secession.
A national work stopping strike should include all of Elon Musk's companies. Let his worth drop even more. Of course he has a lot of immigrants working for him on H-1B visas who may be deported if they stop.
Add boycotting American goods except for necessities. Musk is not the only one who can stop things. Also, recognize that there is a Red State Blue State divide that has been around for a while. My book club is reading Freedom's Dominion by Jefferson Cowie. In this book he takes a county in Alabama over time and examines the different idea of Freedom that the US was founded on, and which has been continued in places like this. It is the idea of freedom that slave holding states have. Free for me, but not for thee. Free speech for me, but not for thee. The right to own people, is woven into this idea that White men with property can be free and not everyone else. I call this the New Feudalism. In any case, this is the idea that Musk and Trump embrace, and Musk's fellow Broligarchs. They are free to do whatever they want, and no one else is.
Cowie is giving a talk that will be live streamed on Tuesday at 19:00 Central European Time, which is 13:00 or 1 pm EST. It is called Populist Rage and the American Illiberalism.
Agree 1000% Write. Call. Protest. Boo loudly. And BOYCOTT.
The protests at TESLA showrooms continue. On the mainstream media, they are reporting 100’s of weekly protestors, but based on drone footage of the last two weekends, I’d say at least a thousand protestors at our local protest. Tesla sales and stock continues to tank nationwide & worldwide. StarLink contracts have been cancelled in Canada & Europe.
Ticket sales at the Kennedy Center have collapsed by 50%. Many prominent artists have cancelled their upcoming shows, including Hamilton. We the People are boycotting Tesla, Amazon, Meta, General Mills, Nestle & ANY company supporting Project 2025!!!
I attended a Tesla dealer protest yesterday in Santa Rosa, in the north of the SF Bay Area. It’s a smaller dealership in an industrial park area, on a fairly quiet street. There was strong attendance - I’d guess 300 or so people. Lots of honking and waving by those driving through, a few middle fingers and f you shouts from dudes in their diesel pickup brodozers. Ironic that they are supporting Tesla…
I love that Merrill. There are things the Democratic leaders can't do as you mention.
Other things we can do, is buy local and grow a garden. The Walton family is wealthier than Musk and Bezos and they resell 1/3 of the groceries sold in the US. They are now introducing dynamic pricing meaning the tags on the shelf can be changed remotely and instantaneously. When they want to eliminate competition in an area, they match the prices charged in that locale. Of course, Bezos is already doing the same thing by zip code as others have pointed out.
If you only need to purchase items like paper products from Walmart, shop around or order online from the manufacturer or a middle man.
Trump is transactional. He has been saying that he wants to increase the wealth of America. Every time he speaks he echoes this sentiment when he says "take over the Panama Canal" and "buy Greenland", tariff steel and aluminum", tariff everyone at equal rates they tariff the US,", "erupt the tax cuts (for the wealthy)", "take the precious metals from Ukraine", "End sanctions against Russia". This is ALL for DonOLD and the oligarchs.
In a follow up to my earlier post, IMO, We the opposition to all constitutional crimes being normalized byTrump/MAGA/GO, We need to opine less on who is leading the Democrats and much, much more on how, through collective action, we can push back directly on the Trump administration. Democratic party leadership will fall in line once the People Rise Up!
Well written! Somehow, a national movement needs the appropriate method to turn this onslaught against the MAGAs into a crusade. The media put Trump and his enablers in power. The opposition needs a similar vehicle. I don't know what that vehicle is but hopefully one will appear. A united voice against MAGA needs to be loud enough to make a difference. So far, it's mostly background noise typically, grumbling social media commentary. That's not enough.
Friends of HCR! Check out this grassroots organization, “Indivisible.org.” Could this be a starting point for your community? Established in 2016. BlueHill and Gouldsboro, Maine already have mobilized chapters. Scroll to the bottom of their home page to see if your state has a chapter near you! If no, can you help start a chapter?
A new group; “indivisiblecobb”. I attended their second meeting yesterday at Mountain View Library, in Cobb county,Georgia. 50 people were there. “Indivisible” did start in 2016. I am very encouraged with their leadership. I am going to give this group my all. Along with physical protesting when my 73 year old knees will cooperate!!! It is never too late to protest!
What do you propose? I have been in the streets for over five weeks now. Momentum is building, but not as fast as we would like. From everything I have been involved with so far, I find indivisible is mobilizing in the most organized fashion and bringing in the splinter groups. Do you have other impressions/suggestions? I hope everyone in this feed goes to an indivisible organizing event today. Events in your area can be found on mobilize.us.
Yess, Merrill my brother, and let's take a breath now and then, too. This is a lifelong fight. I've been in more demonstrations than I can count over the decades, and now that I'm old I appreciate how long and steep the process of real change takes. And even after progress has been made, there is always backlash. We are in one of those periods. Yes, hone and use all the nonviolent weapons we posses, AND get some sleep, have a little fun from time to time, eat some real food and don't forget the love at the heart of the fight.
Consider organizing through this grassroots organization, “Indivisible.” Check it out. Could this be a starting point for your community? Established in 2016. BlueHill and Gouldsboro Maine already have chapters. Click the link, scroll down. Find your state; see if there’s a chapter near you! If no, consider starting one!
Before the election two book clubs became a political organizing group calling ourselves Guardians of Democracy. We write postcards for Democrats all over the country; especially in swing states. After the election we morphed into an Indivisible group mostly organizing rallies and calling reps & senators all over the country. On Friday we rallied for our veterans. Currently, we writing post cards for the Wisconsin Supreme Court election. Next we will be organizing for the big rally on April 5th. When we rally there is an overwhelming noticeable support from the motorists who drive by. It’s very encouraging.
I agree that mass organization is the key at the moment. I suggest that indivisible has emerged as the most organized and efficient mobilizer. Any other thoughts?
How grateful we all are that this story turned you into a historian and a scholar, Heather. May we all be inspired by the transformation that these early Mainers effected.
However, the question of why Angus King voted in favor of the CR makes me pause and reevaluate my original estimation of the Independent Senator of Maine.
That was a RUDE and IGNORANT comment. Allow me to EDUCATE you since you don’t seem to be doing a very good job. I have supplied you with TWO articles (I starred Peter’s for you):
“Ten Senate Democrats helped Republicans advance a GOP-crafted stopgap spending bill, paving the way for it to pass ahead of the midnight deadline despite concerns from scores of their colleagues.
The Democrats who voted to advance the measure were: Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (N.Y.), Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (Ill.) and Sens. Catherine Cortez Masto (Nev.), Maggie Hassan (N.H.), John Fetterman (Pa.), Gary Peters (Mich.), Brian Schatz (Hawaii), Kirsten Gillibrand (N.Y.) and Jeanne Shaheen (N.H.). Angus King (Maine), an independent who caucuses with Democrats, also voted to advance the measure.
Ten Senate Democrats helped Republicans advance a GOP-crafted stopgap spending bill, paving the way for it to pass ahead of the midnight deadline despite concerns from scores of their colleagues.
The Democrats who voted to advance the measure were: Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (N.Y.), Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (Ill.) and Sens. Catherine Cortez Masto (Nev.), Maggie Hassan (N.H.), John Fetterman (Pa.),
•••Gary Peters (Mich.),•••
Brian Schatz (Hawaii), Kirsten Gillibrand (N.Y.) and Jeanne Shaheen (N.H.). Angus King (Maine), an independent who caucuses with Democrats, also voted to advance the measure. “
“In an initial vote to invoke cloture—which refers to ending debate on a bill and moving to a final vote—the following Democrats broke ranks and voted to advance the continuing resolution (CR), which was backed by President Donald Trump:
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer
Senator John Fetterman of Pennsylvania
Senator Catherine Cortez Masto of Nevada
Senator Brian Schatz of Hawaii
Senator Dick Durbin of Illinois
Senator Kirsten Gillibrand of New York
***Senator Gary Peters of Michigan***
Senator Maggie Hassan of New Hampshire
Senator Jeanne Shaheen of New Hampshire
Senator Angus King of Maine, an independent who frequently caucuses with Democrats
Kentucky Senator Rand Paul was the only Republican who voted against invoking cloture.”
I know we’re surprised by any Democrat that votes for anything that seems like supporting Trump but we have all the Republican Congress to blame not just a few Democrats
That’s true, Sandra. Still, it’s hard to process. He “crossed the aisle” recently on another vote, one having to do with reporting requirements for crypto, and it made me very uneasy. Now that is magnified by his CR vote..
Hi Helen. No Schatz did not vote for the CR. He voted against it. Schumer and Fetterman were the only Democrats who voted for it. What Schatz voted for was cloture, ending debate and allowing the bill to be voted on. It’s an entirely different thing.
Thanks, Susanas, you are certainly correct, and my apologies for that misstatement. I wish that changed the concern I and others feel about Schatz of late. I do really like his mind, and his willingness to speak it, but I think he really missed the boat on this one. His statement that it was because of so many federal employees in Hawaii doesn’t meet the magnitude of the moment in my opinion. And I am a (retired) federal employee in Hawaii.
The alternative was to allow Musk and his Doge boys to dismantle the government department by department with NO checks and balances in place during a shutdown. Remember the last shutdown which lasted 35 days when most Federal employees were deemed non-essential and didn't get paid for over a month.
This would be much worse even if it only lasted a week or two. Musk/Trump have a plan and they aren't afraid to execute it and there is NO ONE inside the Republican orbit to stop them.
Have to admit, it has to be a hard swallow. I'm thinking the 1.) dems know that for one thing messaging is far from being in their favor. 2.) A shutdown, aside from being catastrophic, it gives cfg and company far more destructive powers. Poor choices either way; A matter of which is the worse case scenario for the country. Tough spot either way. My reps are a pure waste of energy and have been for far too long; Taxation without representation has been my lot for what seems forever.
Me too Betsy Smith but, I question every single 'Yes' votes.
Spoiler Alert: The vote stablished a U.S. Government Budget through the end of the Fiscal Year 25, 9/30/25. This is not a Continuing Resolution nor a so-called "CR".
Negatives Include but, are not limited to the following:
Gives the (WH) Elon-Dumb Don more discretion as to where money goes. Hey, isn't that Congress' constitutional job -- their No. 1 Job?
The budget limits congressional ability to halt the rants on tariffs & the market disruptions risking a global recession.
Angus stated in his Instagram feed, “ Ultimately I decided the risk of a shutdown with Trump, Musk and Vought in total control of its implementation (do you think they would deem the courts “essential” for example) outweighed the problems of the bill. It’s important to realize that a no vote on the bill was a yes vote on the shutdown (with no clear path out) and I could not with clear conscience take that risk.”
I understand that, but our clearly essential courts have been unable to enforce their rulings, so the practical effect is equivalent. There's an incalculable value in contrasting what is right with the damage being done with no restraint on the perps and for standing up for your values, or should I say, "our" values.
Betsy, neither of the two options were good for the Democrats . They just let themselves cornered and no way to get out of there. As much as what they voted for revolts my stomach the other option would produce the same effect.
If the effect would be the same, or even similar, we needed the Senate Dems, like those in the House, to be united against the Muskovites and to explain clearly the dangers that this administration is posing to all of us.
Betsy, Carol, Marlo, Helen, et al: I also was certain that the Angus King and the Democratic Senators should have shut down the government until I read this in a Substack comments: Trump WANTED the government shutdown because he would be authorized to: 1. decide which operations are essential and which are not; 2. decide which employees are exempt and which are not; and 3. decide which payments will be withheld and debts defaulted. Schumer noted that Trump could even shut down court proceedings; and the courts have been the only place where DEMS have been winning battles. The DEMS in Congress were doomed to fail because they don’t have enough political power. No matter what DEMS do, Trump is going to try to destroy the federal government. The worst thing the DEMS can do now is blame each other for not stopping Trump when, really, none of them have any political power to stop Trump. The fight now is in the Courts. Public opinion is not stoping Trump. The markets (I.e. Wall St) can’t stop him. Maybe Trump voters who are NOW suffering will start vocally rejecting him and hopefully vote differently in 2026 & 2028. But these voters aren’t ever going to listen to AOC … nor will they care if a Democratic Senator “lacked courage” to shutdown the government to stick it to Trump. Schumer is standing up to Trump. If a DEM can’t see that, it’s a shame.
Thanks for explaining the whole picture Roxanne. That's why I said to Betsy that any of those two options revolted my stomach. We need not just stronger leaders but also intelligent enough as not being forced to pick between two evils. Thanks again.
Roxanne, while you were writing this, I posted what I'm reposting here.
I understand that, but our clearly essential courts have been unable to enforce their rulings, so the practical effect is equivalent. There's an incalculable value in contrasting what is right with the damage being done with no restraint on the perps and for standing up for your values, or should I say, "our" values.
If Angus King's analysis is correct, if his vote mitigates the damage being caused, I'll apologize, but I think that he's rationalizing his way out of a bad position.
Betsy, my same thoughts about Senator King! I have admired him though he needs more “fire in his soul”. He gives great speeches but now action is needed. Sad to think he can’t be relied on anymore!
Gosh! Get your facts straight people. King voted yea for cloture, the vote that ended debate. And nay on the bill itself. The only Dems that supported the actual bill were Schumer and Fetterman. Yes, the senate has some arcane and, frankly, stupidly complicated rules. But if we can’t be bothered to find out what really happened how effective do you think our protests will be? And beware of getting riled up by MAGAT trolls. I’d put the whole of that last sentence in all caps except yelling is never a good strategy,
Can you give me a source for your comment, susanus? This is what the NYTimes (https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2025/03/14/us/politics/senate-government-funding-vote.html) wrote: "All Republicans but one were joined by 10 Democrats in voting “yes” on the measure to overcome a filibuster and proceed to a vote on the final bill. It required 60 votes to pass." Am I misunderstanding that King and others voted with the Republicans on the cloture bill, meaning that there could not be debate or a filibuster and that the CR then only needed only a simple majority to pass? Is it not true that the ten who voted yes in fact assured that the MAGA bill would pass regardless of how many Dems voted against it? Even if the cloture vote hadn't passed by the more than 60 required votes, the final bill would have passed. According to the Guardian (https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/mar/14/aoc-chuck-schumer-gop-funding-bill), "Only King and Shaheen supported the bill on final passage, which requires a simple majority to pass." So was it Schumer and Fetterman or King and Shaheen who voted yes on the final bill? If you have a source that disagrees with the Guardian, please give the citation. I agree that it's easy to get confused about these kinds of votes, but if you can clarify for me "what really happened," as you advised in your comment, I'd be grateful.
Youngkin showed his true colors when he gleefully declared that DEI was done at the University of Virginia, his hand-picked members of the Board of Visitors having unanimously voting against it.
Thanks, Mara, for this news, especially about the Lt. Governor and Attorney General races. Fingers crossed they all get elected!
I'm in District 10 (also, approx. 40 miles from D.C.) with newly elected Suhas Subramanyam. He took over from Jennifer Wexton, who left Congress due to illness. Suhas has already got at least two town halls under his belt with another one, I believe, coming this Tuesday. I've been seeing him in the local newspapers as well as local media.
But there are many here in Northern Alabama who are working to make changes. Check out Persistence Pac. It's a group of HSV progressive minded folks who are putting in our time and talents to support local Dems win elections.
I work on hidden history from Greene County. Adam Harris wrote in the Atlantic recently "America's Politics Began in Eutaw, AL." I partially agree! I think Calhoun's 1832 insurrection in S.C. was a beginning too. And, the influence on a S.C. student of Humbolt, John C. Fremont, 1856 Republican Candidate, is significant. Significant through his wife Jessie. Why does Heather Cox Richardson not mention (silence) this historical connection? I believe it helps explain current divisions in America!
An apt analogy at the end. WE WILL join together and we WILL save our country from the oligarchs. It has to be said that they are on a path to privatizing all the workings of our government. This hasn't been expressed very much, but that would be the very worst slavery of all - we would all become serfs in aid of enriching the oligarchs.
Every business with a federal contract knows that they are dependent on Congress to fund their contract every year. It is the cycle of life as a government contractor. So, take some small hope that even if FFOTUS and his puppet master succeed in outsourcing some government business we can turn that around with a real budget on a bright October 1st morning.
Maine sees the sun rise before any other state. Guam is not a state. A small part of Alaska extends beyond the international date line but it is in the same time zone as the rest of Alaska. Can’t go having a part of your state be today and a part being tomorrow. Wreaks havoc.
I think it is these lovely historical "mini-lectures" that I love most of all from the great Professor. I read with anticipation to see what hint/connection to modern action is presented. Thank you for your lessons and detailed record of today's insanity.
Dear Goddess, Heather! Thank you for these memorable words on this memorable day, written during a time of chaos, darkness, fear, and uncertainty by a woman who stands, like Maine in 1860, as a beacon to humanity.
Things are possibly a bit more complex these days but I hope your words - and the words and actions of many others - continue to shine encouragement into our souls as we stand strong in the fight for Democracy.
Let's face facts and follownthe spirit on Mainets There is only so much we can expect from our Democratic leadership. We the People need to take the fight against Trump/Musk/MAGA,MAHA/and the To Rich to Care GOP straight to the streets. We need to start big protest marches, a national work stopping strike, a tax revolt, blocking Musk workers from getting into Federal buildings, keep booing Vance and his wife, interfere with ICE raids, block RFK jr's offices and so forth.
We are the only ones who can save ourselves and the nation we love. And the time is NOW!!
Heather Cox Richardson is the new Joshua Chamberlain. They are both staunch Mainers who defended democracy. I wrote a poem forever and hope that she and this community can help support my partner, who was fired from her DEI civil service career by the fascists: https://democracydefender2025.substack.com/p/heather-cox-richardson-letters-history-democracy
I hope your partner gets their job back. My husband is a scientist at a university and they have not been paid from their grants since December. These are grants that they already got. He is going to have to retire earlier than he had planned to because of this. My friend's son works for NOAA, he and all his colleagues were fired. My friend who works for an environmental organization says none of their contractors are being paid by the government for work they have already done, that was approved by the government. Also, the invasive species they were removing, was not fully removed so it is all coming back and the work done up to now is all for naught. Someone I know whose sister is a doctor for the VA is losing her funding. I think we should be gathering all of these stories in one place and be sharing them.
I absolutely agree about gathering and documenting the stories of all who have lost jobs and their livelihoods. These stories need to be told en masse to the public at large to spotlight just how much and how many people are being affected by the insanity that now rules the country. They are not just random anonymous people, they make up the fabric of our country - that is being ripped apart.
Who can we approach to start the collection of the stories of fired individuals? I was thinking people with wide exposure like Steven Colbert, Jimmie Kimmel, John Stewart. Or maybe some Democrat politicians who want to help the resistance.
Sorry, but it’s Democratic politicians, not Democrat politicians. The two letters are important. For decades, Republicans have called it “the Democrat Party.” It is a slur, intended to show that we do not deserve respect enough for them to remember the name of our party. Don’t play into that.
Jon I agree with you. It is indeed the Democratic Party. It is also not the Dems. The larger issue is where does the Democratic Party go from here? It appears the Democratic Party Leaders are wandering in the wilderness. The Party is not nimble enough to meet the times. So glad to see the activism of Sanders, AOC, Crockett, and Walz. I challenge the Democratic Party former Presidents to stop hiding behind tradition and come out and raise hell with us.
I've heard this before, but it was 'Democratic' that was the slur. I feel either one is fine. We are Democrats. (Actually, 'democratic' sounds kind of like one who leans toward democracy, i.e., democrat-ish.) Oh, holy cow, we have more important things to resolve. :)
Thank you for pointing this out. It is a trump name-calling slur to say Democrat instead of Democratic Party.
Jon, thank you for making that correction. It is important that we demand and receive respect. Republicans have forgotten most of the civilities well, just because they think it looks tough for them to act like thugs; it isn't tough, just rude and insensitive.
Our MD Senator, Chris van Hollen has a link on his website for people to use to share how this regime has affected their lives.
Both of my senators are Republican, so they don't want to hear about their constituents' troubles.
Or Bob Woodward.
Contact their representative in the House and ask that they hold a press conference and invite these people share their stories
There are some Democratic politicians who are taking their message to townhalls in republican territory. Support them!
Tim Walz seems to be spearheading the charge. Support via Act Blue.
Or Stephen King.
On a webinar with our Minnesota senators recently, Amy Klobuchar asked people to send her stories of what is happening to people because of Musk/Trump. Those stories will be used in the lawsuits that are going forward to stop the madness. Send stories to Sen. Klobuchar.
Good point, Melinda. I also urge anyone directly affected by DOGE actions to check out any lawsuits that may be relevant & where they may be able to participate/assist/contribute.
NYT tracks them (you may need to set up a subs - free or paid - to access):
https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2025/us/trump-administration-lawsuits.html
And this:
https://www.lawfaremedia.org/projects-series/trumps-first-100-days/tracking-trump-administration-litigation
There was a time when klobuchar would personally go out into the world of the hoi polloi to gather these stories. I was following a thread and people said it impossible to reach her. One woman responded she could speak directly to her, or have her calls quickly returned. I thought it was odd, so I checked her profile . She was director of The League of Women Voters. I'm a constituent. I have one vote. She's a constituent. She has one vote. But............
i think we need to set these stories in right wing media and newspapers across the country. Back when I wrote for a newspaper, things like the AP was picked up and reprinted across the nation. Heather, please guide us how to write a story and get it printed accross the country. The key is to talk to people who voted for Trump ... the slavery analogy is indeed an important one. re: Tahisi Coates. The Message.
But would right wing media/newspapers publish them?
I was going to add... we need a compilation of these stories to be read at ALL protests!
The waste is incalculable, and deliberately as bad as they can make it.
I know, the irony of their professed purpose pisses me off.
Absolutely! I have only one question and that is: How and where would these collected facts and stories be told? The willfully uneducated and the non-caring shoulder shruggers don't choose to read, watch news, or think. They bury their heads in the gossiping social media where conspiracy stories go to mutate and spread. I wish I knew how to reach those but I think only when it becomes personal--when the social security check doesn't arrive, or eggs cost $20. a dozen, or they cannot take a vacation in a national park because it is closed, or more and more devastatingly hot summers and fires and flooding are the norm and FEMA is no longer funder--well maybe then they will rise up and say "Enough?" But don't count on it. The kool-aid they have taken is pretty strong.
I agree with you - there was some famous quote from the 70’s I believe - something about people won’t care about air pollution until it interferes with their TV reception.
imagine if we acted without passion in the 70's. music and activists were major part of stopping the war in Vietnam... the immolation of the monk. Pessimism has no place in the conversation today. I hope upon reflection, you agree. Heather's entire point is that there were a few people that inspired a nation!!!
I agree in general but while there are absolutely the willfully uneducated there are also those uneducated by circumstance (their family culture, cultural environment and the inability to read well). Literacy rate for the U.S. in reading comprehension is at a 7th grade level or Below! for a large portion of the country and that is a huge issue. However, people like to hear stories, especially stories they can relate to such as loss of jobs, loss of health care, unable to pay rent/ mortgages and struggling to put food on the table. Stories can shed a light far greater than reading a thoughtful measured article for the uneducated.
You are absolutely correct. But therein lies the ongoing problem of how to rea h those who might like to hear the stories but either don't know where to look or hear those stories.
Yes, I fully acknowledge that's a problem. And it will take some creative and savvy problem solving to address it. I don't think the people we would hope to reach would even consider actively looking for these stories, it's simply not in their frame of reference. It would take a coordinated effort to flood the media with these stories to catch their attention and perhaps initiate their curiosity enough to ask themselves why - and how - this is happening. They aren't inclined to come to Substack to read lengthy discussions but they would watch TikTok, Instagram and the like.
How many Americans are well-informed?
One might think that Trump would receive more resistance if more of us can look at his behavior, the facts, and where we stand in the course of human events.
Trump’s popularity, although under water, is way too high for what is happening.
19th century American history is still reflected in today’s America. Parties are reversed.
Great idea. Maybe Prof Richardson has a student who has or could start a substack to collect them- oral histories as well as posts or comments?
Our daughter told us that she is going to start a Substack to do just that!
Is she part of StandUpForScience2025. If not, can you have her reach out. They are a youth led group making progress. They have a website. Protests were quickly and well-organized last week.
I support this idea, but Substack has too limited an audience, as does BlueSky. These stories need to be displayed on a freestanding website. Then, all other media can be used to point to that website.
Once can create a “standalone” website in Substack, which is how I read most that I follow. In other words, I don’t use the app (too busy), and go directly to the authors’ page, which can have a distinct URL sans Substack. I don’t know how it’s done, but I can’t imagine it’s too difficult.
The Bulwark does this - https://www.thebulwark.com/
I hope I’m not stating the obvious here…
That is a great idea! The stories need to be told.
With a megaphone, or electronic equivalent.
Trump got richer by not paying people and contractors for work they did so this doesn’t surprise me in the least. I totally agree with you that the information about the people and programs that are being destroyed should be gathered and shared. Perhaps on MSNBC or NPR? Or written up in newspapers and magazines…I know since some of these outlets have been taken over, it may be difficult. But we have to start somewhere.
NPR. The govt no longer supports. They are one great way ie Stories from the Stage.
Another could be a challenge to The NY Times to do this. Or, The Guardian, but I deeply doubt the maggots read it.
I’m going to call The NY Times on 3/17 to challenge them in a hopefully-very-nice way to print a story of a person affected by this maladministration’s policies.
As always I thank HCR for her becoming a shining light scholar, and her brilliant readers’ comments. I have learned so much snd it has pushed me to become ‘active’
not only posting here, but taking action each day in some way.
Perhaps send this suggestion to a tipline pf Rachel Maddow’s or Lawrence O’Donnell or Nicole Wallace.
StoryCorps on NPR.
The Moth?
BAY COUNTY, Fla. (WMBB) – According to a public information statement by the National Weather Service, the Tallahassee NOAA Weather Radio input was lost earlier Saturday afternoon.
A trouble ticket has been opened to address the issue. In the meantime, TLH will be down until further notice, officials wrote in a statement.
The National Weather Service has issued a forecast warning of strong thunderstorms, damaging winds, and the threat of large tornadoes.
https://www.mypanhandle.com/news/local-news/bay-county/tallahassee-noaa-weather-radio-down-public-warned-of-severe-weather-threat/
Maybe Mar-a-Lago will feel the effects; we can only hope.
Theses (their) stories need to be shared. These are our family, friends, and neighbors. People need to read and hear from those impacted. It will be powerful.
So much damage in such a short amount of time. It is important to hear the stories of those impacted personally.
It should be obvious to all by now that these denials of funds already appropriated and the stoppage of projects already in progress are necessary so that the billionaires can add to their already-accumulated fortunes. We common folks shouldn't be so greedy or resentful. The oligarchs need vast amounts of wealth as much as any of us need food and water. Their appetite for wealth is insatiable and there is nothing that they won't do to achieve it, including letting people starve (i.e., demolition of USAID.)
Shameful
I am not an expert on using Substack for communication. I just subscribed to you. Would like to help you organize your project or make sure it finds a home. I went to the Stand up for Science March a little over a week ago and even marched and gave not gotten well integrated yet, but am still trying. Going to another Indivisible meeting today.
Good for you & us, Kimberly, and as John Lewis would say "good trouble."
As I understand it our elected officials know they are being informed by the people on the street. They know that every pair of feet on the ground is a vote. And even though it may not seem like it - I mean geez if they know how we feel why don't they do something or at least tell us what they're going to do? - they hear us. As a former elected official, I promise you they hear us.
Any Republican intent on keeping their job knows they must toe the (Party) line; any Democrat intent on keeping their oath to our Constitution must hold the (legal) line.
Thank you for showing up & please keep it up as your time allows.
Sharing them with names and photos to put human faces on the stories.
I agree with your statement that we should be gathering these stories together. I think a place to start would be “Standupforscience2025”. Please go to the website and start evaluating possibilities. In the meantime, write up the stories you have. I have evaluated multiple science organizational movements, but think this is the strongest I have seen so far and has the most momentum.
Linda. Do you have the bandwidth to start organizing those in this thread? Collete Wismer has a daughter already organizing stories. Standupforscience2025 is already connected to Indivisible who is connected to Rachel Maddow. You get the pattern. Feel free to reach out to me if you want to talk.
👏 Nicely crafted poem, PS, honoring our national treasure, HCR. I like that folks are increasingly making “good trouble” in the streets and town halls & capitol steps to support our democracy and free and fair elections…bet it brings her a smile, as it does me!
You are not the only one smiling Barbara. I just arrived at Paris and I'm smiling for that and many other reasons like just hanging a great croissant 🥐.
Chamberlain is one of my heroes. Visited Bowdoin and Little Round Top within a week of each other Nice comparison. We need more like him to step up and take the lead.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z63wb0LpDfQ
Dixieland
Wonderful poem.
I can’t write much because my cat Ringo, who is big as a Maine coon cat, is sitting on my chest.
And when he wants to sit on my chest I can’t object.
I’m glad he’s not a cow.
Kitty! Kitty!
Thank you for shining a light on the good work of Heather Cox Richardson with your poem. Wonderful. I am sorry your partner has lost their job. What is happening to our civil servants is shameful.
My heart goes out to you and your partner!
It's good to share your experienes - it has to be made visible, that real(!) people are affected by this chainsaw-massacre!!
let's organize ! i support you. and send caring... and infuriation.
Great poem, TY. Heather was my first introduction to this tribe of servants , she a historian made my lack of history awaken and become fascinated not just what she wrote but that in between the lines was so genuinely humble offers of detail, comparisons, education of critical thought . Being a fellow Mainer ( pronounced Mainah, btw) I felt a sister kinship and today mention of Joshua Chamberlain-ness she is now familia , he being a many great uncle of mine.
So many never reach these ‘heights’ yet in their perceived smallness labor away providing the fuel that keeps mankind learning ,acknowledging stumbles or rocky roads , but rowing the boat anyhow .
It’s why I say no effort of good intent is small, it by far keeps the lights on…and thank you for that …all of you🫶
Thank you and I send you wishes for normalcy and hugs of support. I thoroughly enjoyed the poem.
Thank you for your poem.
Balance in the ledger of life!!! Well done - thanks.
Beautiful poem 👏🏻.
"...only so much we can expect?" I expect new leaders.
Schumer needs a double-billed baseball cap with this caption: "I'm their (minority) leader. Which way did they go?"
The only "reason" for him, Durbin, et al. to vote for the bill is that they're constitutionally (haha) incapable of messaging and making it clear that the shutdown is on Republicans.
They're past their "sell by" date.
Indivisible leaders nationwide voted 91% today to demand that Schumer step aside as minority leader. Everyone, call your Democratic senators to demand that they go public to call for new leadership and do all they can to get Schumer to quit. He's on book tour even as we're all sweating it out for our country.
I thought Schumer made sense when he said that if the government were shut down, T and E would have even more opportunity to get rid of workers while they were furloughed, and since the courts would be closed we could do even less about it. I don't think Schumer is the villain here. He made an unpopular decision, bravely, whether you agree with it or not.
I'm not a fan of Schumer in the Senate or Jeffries in the House. Neither are the leaders the Democrats need. However, I agree that shutting down the government -- more shut down than it already because of Trump/Musk stupidity -- is a very bad idea. It is also very expensive to shut down the government and, eventually, start it up again.
I agree with you, except for the part about Trump/Musk "stupidity". That is too kind. It EVIL, created by evil people who know exactly what they are doing.
John, I imagine this was an agonizing decision on many levels…I know I was on the razor’s edge of what might be, ultimately, the best outcome, despite the lousy choices. One tell, for me, was that Mump WANTED the shutdown…and I could just envision them rubbing their greedy little hands together at how they would monetize and assert even more control as a result. I guess time will tell how it all crumbles, cookie wise.
If it had been a binary choice, I might have agreed with it….ah, probably not, Merkley and Wyden are my Senators. It just didn’t need to be the binary choice Schumer forced it to be. Dems could have used the shutdown to leverage a discussion about other options re: the CR. It could have meant some of the worst cuts coming out of the bill. But that option was no longer viable, and the bill ended up passing, with horrid consequences to those on the poor ends of the spectrum.
Those who are on Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid are now royally screwed at least until the end of September, if not for the rest of This presidency, and the youngest and poorest among us are now on a much shakier footing than just two months ago. Hunger, health care (lack of) and homelessness will now be on a sharper rise than during the pandemic, or the depression of 2007. Joblessness will create more crises than our current and soon to be dismantled mental health system can keep up with.
Dominoes are about to start falling all because of Schumer’s decisions and the lack of negotiations that could take place. I’m so proud of what my fellow citizens are doing to ouch back, because it has been working. I am beyond fury that Schumer allowed and led some of our Senators to walk back from fighting for our democracy as they swore an oath to do.
I don’t know if Trump and Musk truly wanted a shutdown but I do know that whatever the outcome they were going to put it to use. The Democrats had absolutely no leverage on this matter. None. The practical outcome was going to be pretty much the same no matter how the vote turned out. But by avoiding a shutdown they at least avoided giving the Republicans a hook on which to hang the coming recession.
I am persuaded by this reply as I read that Musk is likely finagling his way to push Verizon out of a contract, replacing Verizon with .I think it might be in Alaska…but, then baby steps. He hasn’t exactly been a stellar success with his space program, his cars don’t really stand the test of time (a good and her husband had one of the first), his trucks have been banned in England (which showed crash tests in which the damage to the passenger compartment was horrible - and the trucks are ~6800 lbs empty, and there is a funny short YouTube video showing one stuck in snow while cars can navigate…). Better to keep the “rats” out in bright daylight…
and his rockets are falling out of the sky just like the airplanes that no longer have trained, experienced guidance!
Who would want to work for that a-hole?
His trucks are banned in the EU too . They don't pass security clearance.....and they are UGLY !
This wasn't a vote on the bill. It was a vote to close debate and vote on the bill. Dems had no input into the bill. If Republicans object to Dems insisting that THEIR constituents be heard, tough.
Something can make sense and still not be the best decision. That's what "tough decisions" are about. These mopes didn't decide, they caved.
It's his earlier decision, Elene, which galls most.
This, when he was Senate majority leader, and could have called a vote as the Constitution explicitly says as to disqualifying the fat, orange, waddling, hate-instigating traitor.
The highest court in the land has no role in it at all, as the Constitution says. Any insurrectionist can have that legality decided by a vote in either or both houses of Congress. Both by 2/3 vote need to free one of disqualification. If either house votes alone, however, and an insurrectionist fails to get the 2/3, that person's status is legally set and disqualification from public office is final.
Schumer, the fool, did not uphold the Constitution. Schumer gave us the convicted criminal now in the White House, with all his mad pals and his criminality, insanity, madness, and sycophancy from all MAGA only turning more venomous, worsening.
Phil, let’s go back a bit in time and lay the original sin on McConnell who refused & directed most, if not all, of his party to decline to convict on either of Trump’s impeachments….the second being, to me, the more democracy crushingly serious.
Yesterday's gone and tomorrow's out of sight. We only have NOW.
It's not that simple. Trump has never been legally found to be an insurrectionist. It was a tied Senate when Schumer was Leader and I'm not certain he could have gotten even all Democrats to vote for disqualification. In addition, the Republicans would have likely filibustered. Trump surely would have challenged any such action by Congress and the Supreme Court would have had the role of interpreting the 14th amendment. I'm no Schumer fan, but think your premise is not realistic or fair.
Article 14 Section Three's words are explicitly clear, NanceeM. If the Senate voted, his constitutional disqualification would have been final.
Republicans would have gone on forever with filibuster?
And you know, too, you err when you forget Colorado after due process legally found Trump an insurrectionist. Not even the Clarence court attempted to deny that fact and its legality.
@ Nancee M Hope you afen't a lawyer. Colorado, other states....
Elene, I've heard that argument as well. If a federal shutdown closed the courts, we'd have no line of defense against the outrageous actions from.the Oval Office. Im.noy as angry at Shumer as others are.
The courts are doing a great job now, at the careful pace that justice requires. That's some of the most cheering news of the day. I have also heard that organizations, with their lawyers in front, are blocking DOGE access.
I was torn. My heart yelled shut it the f... down! I'm willing, consequences be damned. My executive brain function said no, even more people will be acutely devastated, the hurt will be too vast. Grave missteps by the Democrats have had a long unfortunate history. Damned if you do, damned if you don't. I'm still torn. I want a really strong third party.
I agree Elene! I was disappointed though not particularly surprised when AOC joined in the castigation of Schumer’s for his vote but was especially surprised when Nancy Pelosi joined in the negative chorus! These are people to all of whom I pay attention. I suppose this diversity of opinion is what makes the Democrats what they are as a party.
I agree, Elene.
No, it was a cowardly cave in. T and M are now dumping workers like potatoe chips, there would be no difference. We have no government now, just an elite mafia.
After I read Heather's March 14 post on the CR vote, I could understand that the Democrats were maneuvered into an impossible situation - acquiesce to the CR and give Trump more power for 6 months, or shut down the government and give Trump total power indefinitely (which appears to be what he wanted). I imagine there were back room discussions to decide which Democrats would step in front of the firing squad.
It is very difficult to try to support a rules-based system when one party simply ignores the rules, or makes up new ones out of whole cloth to suit their agenda. As has been said before, the Democrats may try to play chess, but the Republicans just "eat the pieces".
Ellen here-I understood that Schumer started to imply the courts would be affected and stopped himself because the courts would NOT be affected by this particular CR. Heard this on Robert Hubbell's substack.
The courts would not be closed but that doesn't mean their work would continue unimpeded. Judicial decisions are only as good as the actions that come from them; actions that must be executed by agencies that could be shut down in a government shutdown.
A complicit coward.
I'll call one of them -- calling Durbin, the #2 pearl-clutching wimp, would be a waste of time (as was calling and saying "Vote NO!").
I sent Tammy Duckworth an email thanking her. I sent Durbin one asking him not to run again.
LaurieOregon, "Indivisible" caught my eye. My wife and I joined in December, 2024. She helped organize a new Indivisible group here in rural northern Minnesota that month. 50 people attended our first monthly meeting, about 120 came the second month and now we're at about 350 very active members and have outgrown our church Fellowship Hall venue.
Other Indivisible groups in more densely populated areas around us are growing faster. After one of those groups attracted roughly 400 protesters to a rally at our local Republican Congressman's office here in Minnesota CD-8, we organized a second demonstration at the same place that attracted about the same number of people.
Previously I had thought "Indivisible" seemed more like "Invisible" but they're very helpful and are growing fast. My wife was in on their zoom meeting when they voted to ask Schumer to step aside.
Your Indivisible group sounds wonderful! Kudos to you and the other members. I recommend Leah and Ezra's "What's the Plan" Q&A webinars on Thursday's at noon - lots of basic info, strategy, and energy. Sign up here: https://indivisible.org/indivisible-trainings
Thanks for the tip!
Unfortunately my Democratic Senator is turncoat Fetterman. What a disappointment he is. I wrote him to demand he vote NO on the budget bill and I got some drivel in response.
Although it was a difficult decision , but majority should have prevailed and presented a unified opinion, the division in the party will be exploited,, still thinking of the CR vote
Thank you for letting me know. I don't agree that Schumer should step aside because that creates a leadership vacuum that cannot be filled by anyone currently in the Senate. Do I wish the Democratic Senators would identify & choose a different leader? Hell, yeah. But that leader has not yet emerged & pretending otherwise is a danger we can't afford.
At the risk of blowback, I'm going to say that I see this demand for another leader very similar to how I saw the demand for Biden to step aside. Party leadership miscalculated the number of votes they would keep when they pushed to replace Biden. Again, would I have wanted a next generation President? Hell, yeah! Even campaigned for Harris as vigorously as I did for Biden. But it wasn't long after the National Convention & based on my experiences on the campaign trail, my gut told me to start planning how to manage a second Trump administration & re-acquaint myself with Project 2025.
Getting back to Schumer, I can't help but believe that every step/word/vote he took/made was intentional & that all Democratic Senators knew each before he proceeded. If any of the rank-&-file had collectively a better idea or Leader, Schumer would have worked within those parameters. I assume a different plan with at least 75% of Senators on board did not exist, so Schumer did the best he could with what he had.
And you are correct.
The most important thing right now is unity in the Democratic Party. The Democrats can only be powerful if they support each other. It is the Republican party that is allowing this to happen. We’ve got to put some of the blame where the blame lies not just with Trump, but the Republican Congress.
“Some”, Sandra? I hazard to suggest “most” is more accurate IMHO! Totally agree that Dems need to be unified and energized! 🗽🇺🇸💪🏼
Unity is great -- but the unity here needs a fighting spirit not a go-along-to-get-along spirit. Chris Murphy, AOC, Jasmin Crockett, Bernie Sanders - these are the ones standing up and standing out. Schumer and Jeffries do not have that spirit and it's dragging the whole party down.
I am amazed that so many here are critical of Schumer for choosing the least terrible choice.
Trump/Musk were drooling at the prospect of a government shutdown, where they would be give carte blanche to dismantle every department and fire everyone at will.
How can you possibly blame Schumer, King, Peters for saving tens of thousands of essential government jobs?
There WILL be someone that rises up against Trump, but he tanking the economy right now. We need to let him.
We can help by NOT supporting the oligarchs. Only spend what you have to and don't buy from the oligarchs. This includes the lame stream media like The NY Times, WAPO, USA Today, Fox News etc. If they advertise it, don't buy it.
Completely agree!
Yes. This! I wonder whether we are being riled up by trolls to keep us distracted and ineffective. We don’t need to get rid of Schumer. We need to get rid of Trump!
I am sickened by his actions not just on that, but Durbin's inability to start impeachment against this supreme court. He is a huge coward, and doddering idiot if he thinks that promising the House to do one course of action, and then backing down last minute breaking the strategy that the House and Senate Dems had agreed on, and having them put themselves out there, and then not doing the same. I asked Durbin to resign. I hope that others from Illinois do the same.
He's a minority leader now in own party.
Only Schumer and Fetterman voted for the continuing resolution. The others just voted to end debate and then they voted against the bill. Your heart is in the right place but how can we figure out what to do if we can’t bother to find out how the Senate actually works and what actually happened? I also would say that the difference in consequences between a clean CR, this crappy CR and shutting down the government are extremely small. This was no hill to die on.
"Democrats in the upper chamber have largely refused to give Republicans the votes needed to clear a procedural hurdle and pass the temporary spending bill until they get a vote on their amendment calling for a shorter-term version that would provide funds through April instead of September." USA Today, March 13.
Why was this impossible? If Repubs refused to negotiate, it's clear evidence of who's causing the problem. Negotiations on the amendment should have been on-going (and settled) BEFORE the CR got to the Senate. A couple of extra hours, and it's still done in 1 day.
1. Vote against cloture.
2. Bring up Dem. amendment for vote.
3. Vote on amendment. If it's "No," have press releases ready to gox.
4. Vote for cloture.
5. Pass the CR.
Fetterman seems to think he has to vote Republican. since his state's electoral votes went to Trump. Maybe that stroke did more damage than thought.
Imo Schumer and Durbin can't find their way out of a closet with a flashlight.
Agreed. We are the only ones who can save ourselves. This has been clear for 2 months now. I see the tax revolt as being blue states, as a form of financial secession.
A national work stopping strike should include all of Elon Musk's companies. Let his worth drop even more. Of course he has a lot of immigrants working for him on H-1B visas who may be deported if they stop.
Add boycotting American goods except for necessities. Musk is not the only one who can stop things. Also, recognize that there is a Red State Blue State divide that has been around for a while. My book club is reading Freedom's Dominion by Jefferson Cowie. In this book he takes a county in Alabama over time and examines the different idea of Freedom that the US was founded on, and which has been continued in places like this. It is the idea of freedom that slave holding states have. Free for me, but not for thee. Free speech for me, but not for thee. The right to own people, is woven into this idea that White men with property can be free and not everyone else. I call this the New Feudalism. In any case, this is the idea that Musk and Trump embrace, and Musk's fellow Broligarchs. They are free to do whatever they want, and no one else is.
Cowie is giving a talk that will be live streamed on Tuesday at 19:00 Central European Time, which is 13:00 or 1 pm EST. It is called Populist Rage and the American Illiberalism.
https://www.americanacademy.de/
Agree 1000% Write. Call. Protest. Boo loudly. And BOYCOTT.
The protests at TESLA showrooms continue. On the mainstream media, they are reporting 100’s of weekly protestors, but based on drone footage of the last two weekends, I’d say at least a thousand protestors at our local protest. Tesla sales and stock continues to tank nationwide & worldwide. StarLink contracts have been cancelled in Canada & Europe.
Ticket sales at the Kennedy Center have collapsed by 50%. Many prominent artists have cancelled their upcoming shows, including Hamilton. We the People are boycotting Tesla, Amazon, Meta, General Mills, Nestle & ANY company supporting Project 2025!!!
I attended a Tesla dealer protest yesterday in Santa Rosa, in the north of the SF Bay Area. It’s a smaller dealership in an industrial park area, on a fairly quiet street. There was strong attendance - I’d guess 300 or so people. Lots of honking and waving by those driving through, a few middle fingers and f you shouts from dudes in their diesel pickup brodozers. Ironic that they are supporting Tesla…
I love that Merrill. There are things the Democratic leaders can't do as you mention.
Other things we can do, is buy local and grow a garden. The Walton family is wealthier than Musk and Bezos and they resell 1/3 of the groceries sold in the US. They are now introducing dynamic pricing meaning the tags on the shelf can be changed remotely and instantaneously. When they want to eliminate competition in an area, they match the prices charged in that locale. Of course, Bezos is already doing the same thing by zip code as others have pointed out.
If you only need to purchase items like paper products from Walmart, shop around or order online from the manufacturer or a middle man.
Trump is transactional. He has been saying that he wants to increase the wealth of America. Every time he speaks he echoes this sentiment when he says "take over the Panama Canal" and "buy Greenland", tariff steel and aluminum", tariff everyone at equal rates they tariff the US,", "erupt the tax cuts (for the wealthy)", "take the precious metals from Ukraine", "End sanctions against Russia". This is ALL for DonOLD and the oligarchs.
In a follow up to my earlier post, IMO, We the opposition to all constitutional crimes being normalized byTrump/MAGA/GO, We need to opine less on who is leading the Democrats and much, much more on how, through collective action, we can push back directly on the Trump administration. Democratic party leadership will fall in line once the People Rise Up!
Well written! Somehow, a national movement needs the appropriate method to turn this onslaught against the MAGAs into a crusade. The media put Trump and his enablers in power. The opposition needs a similar vehicle. I don't know what that vehicle is but hopefully one will appear. A united voice against MAGA needs to be loud enough to make a difference. So far, it's mostly background noise typically, grumbling social media commentary. That's not enough.
Friends of HCR! Check out this grassroots organization, “Indivisible.org.” Could this be a starting point for your community? Established in 2016. BlueHill and Gouldsboro, Maine already have mobilized chapters. Scroll to the bottom of their home page to see if your state has a chapter near you! If no, can you help start a chapter?
https://indivisible.org/
A new group; “indivisiblecobb”. I attended their second meeting yesterday at Mountain View Library, in Cobb county,Georgia. 50 people were there. “Indivisible” did start in 2016. I am very encouraged with their leadership. I am going to give this group my all. Along with physical protesting when my 73 year old knees will cooperate!!! It is never too late to protest!
Seems we can expect very little from the Dems. It’s the women of color who are the mains ones with Bernie and Elizabeth Warren who are speaking out
Yes, yes, yes!! (But I thought this letter was going to have a nice picture, a dear old joke, and no nasty words.....)
What do you propose? I have been in the streets for over five weeks now. Momentum is building, but not as fast as we would like. From everything I have been involved with so far, I find indivisible is mobilizing in the most organized fashion and bringing in the splinter groups. Do you have other impressions/suggestions? I hope everyone in this feed goes to an indivisible organizing event today. Events in your area can be found on mobilize.us.
Yess, Merrill my brother, and let's take a breath now and then, too. This is a lifelong fight. I've been in more demonstrations than I can count over the decades, and now that I'm old I appreciate how long and steep the process of real change takes. And even after progress has been made, there is always backlash. We are in one of those periods. Yes, hone and use all the nonviolent weapons we posses, AND get some sleep, have a little fun from time to time, eat some real food and don't forget the love at the heart of the fight.
Consider organizing through this grassroots organization, “Indivisible.” Check it out. Could this be a starting point for your community? Established in 2016. BlueHill and Gouldsboro Maine already have chapters. Click the link, scroll down. Find your state; see if there’s a chapter near you! If no, consider starting one!
Before the election two book clubs became a political organizing group calling ourselves Guardians of Democracy. We write postcards for Democrats all over the country; especially in swing states. After the election we morphed into an Indivisible group mostly organizing rallies and calling reps & senators all over the country. On Friday we rallied for our veterans. Currently, we writing post cards for the Wisconsin Supreme Court election. Next we will be organizing for the big rally on April 5th. When we rally there is an overwhelming noticeable support from the motorists who drive by. It’s very encouraging.
I agree that mass organization is the key at the moment. I suggest that indivisible has emerged as the most organized and efficient mobilizer. Any other thoughts?
It’s the time! Indeed it is. We must be careful, though. Peaceful protests is the best way.
Did you see the protests in Europe recently? Amazing. We need those.
Obviously, we need to take the success of Maine and Abraham Lincoln to heart. We are the leaders we've been waiting for!
^^^this!^^^
Just such a lovely story Heather. Thank you.
Paul Krugman's primer on inflation today is a fantastic read. Krugman does economics like Cox Richardson does history.
https://paulkrugman.substack.com/p/inflation/comments
It should be free to read.
Not free.
Dang it! It's a graduate level report like Heather's newsletters.
Weekend articles are usually for paid subscribers.
How grateful we all are that this story turned you into a historian and a scholar, Heather. May we all be inspired by the transformation that these early Mainers effected.
However, the question of why Angus King voted in favor of the CR makes me pause and reevaluate my original estimation of the Independent Senator of Maine.
I was also extremely disappointed to see Angus King’s name on the list of Senators who voted “yea” for the CR.
My Senator (Peters - MI) also voted for the CR. I couldn’t believe it! I had called him and written twice.
Likewise! And not even running for reelection in 2026!
Same here!
No. He did not. Get your facts straight.
That was a RUDE and IGNORANT comment. Allow me to EDUCATE you since you don’t seem to be doing a very good job. I have supplied you with TWO articles (I starred Peter’s for you):
“Ten Senate Democrats helped Republicans advance a GOP-crafted stopgap spending bill, paving the way for it to pass ahead of the midnight deadline despite concerns from scores of their colleagues.
The Democrats who voted to advance the measure were: Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (N.Y.), Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (Ill.) and Sens. Catherine Cortez Masto (Nev.), Maggie Hassan (N.H.), John Fetterman (Pa.), Gary Peters (Mich.), Brian Schatz (Hawaii), Kirsten Gillibrand (N.Y.) and Jeanne Shaheen (N.H.). Angus King (Maine), an independent who caucuses with Democrats, also voted to advance the measure.
https://thehill.com/homenews/senate/5195990-senate-democrats-advance-funding-bill/
Ten Senate Democrats helped Republicans advance a GOP-crafted stopgap spending bill, paving the way for it to pass ahead of the midnight deadline despite concerns from scores of their colleagues.
The Democrats who voted to advance the measure were: Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (N.Y.), Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (Ill.) and Sens. Catherine Cortez Masto (Nev.), Maggie Hassan (N.H.), John Fetterman (Pa.),
•••Gary Peters (Mich.),•••
Brian Schatz (Hawaii), Kirsten Gillibrand (N.Y.) and Jeanne Shaheen (N.H.). Angus King (Maine), an independent who caucuses with Democrats, also voted to advance the measure. “
https://thehill.com/homenews/senate/5195990-senate-democrats-advance-funding-bill/
“In an initial vote to invoke cloture—which refers to ending debate on a bill and moving to a final vote—the following Democrats broke ranks and voted to advance the continuing resolution (CR), which was backed by President Donald Trump:
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer
Senator John Fetterman of Pennsylvania
Senator Catherine Cortez Masto of Nevada
Senator Brian Schatz of Hawaii
Senator Dick Durbin of Illinois
Senator Kirsten Gillibrand of New York
***Senator Gary Peters of Michigan***
Senator Maggie Hassan of New Hampshire
Senator Jeanne Shaheen of New Hampshire
Senator Angus King of Maine, an independent who frequently caucuses with Democrats
Kentucky Senator Rand Paul was the only Republican who voted against invoking cloture.”
https://www.newsweek.com/full-list-democrats-voted-trump-gop-spending-bill-2045209
And Hawai’i Brian Schatz voted for it, too! He’s my senator and I have so admired him—now I’m wondering why, and trying hard to process the betrayal.
I know we’re surprised by any Democrat that votes for anything that seems like supporting Trump but we have all the Republican Congress to blame not just a few Democrats
That’s true, Sandra. Still, it’s hard to process. He “crossed the aisle” recently on another vote, one having to do with reporting requirements for crypto, and it made me very uneasy. Now that is magnified by his CR vote..
Aloha Helen!
Follow the money.
Hi Helen. No Schatz did not vote for the CR. He voted against it. Schumer and Fetterman were the only Democrats who voted for it. What Schatz voted for was cloture, ending debate and allowing the bill to be voted on. It’s an entirely different thing.
Thanks, Susanas, you are certainly correct, and my apologies for that misstatement. I wish that changed the concern I and others feel about Schatz of late. I do really like his mind, and his willingness to speak it, but I think he really missed the boat on this one. His statement that it was because of so many federal employees in Hawaii doesn’t meet the magnitude of the moment in my opinion. And I am a (retired) federal employee in Hawaii.
The alternative was to allow Musk and his Doge boys to dismantle the government department by department with NO checks and balances in place during a shutdown. Remember the last shutdown which lasted 35 days when most Federal employees were deemed non-essential and didn't get paid for over a month.
This would be much worse even if it only lasted a week or two. Musk/Trump have a plan and they aren't afraid to execute it and there is NO ONE inside the Republican orbit to stop them.
There are reasons why Trump wanted a government shutdown.
Have to admit, it has to be a hard swallow. I'm thinking the 1.) dems know that for one thing messaging is far from being in their favor. 2.) A shutdown, aside from being catastrophic, it gives cfg and company far more destructive powers. Poor choices either way; A matter of which is the worse case scenario for the country. Tough spot either way. My reps are a pure waste of energy and have been for far too long; Taxation without representation has been my lot for what seems forever.
Me too Betsy Smith but, I question every single 'Yes' votes.
Spoiler Alert: The vote stablished a U.S. Government Budget through the end of the Fiscal Year 25, 9/30/25. This is not a Continuing Resolution nor a so-called "CR".
Negatives Include but, are not limited to the following:
Gives the (WH) Elon-Dumb Don more discretion as to where money goes. Hey, isn't that Congress' constitutional job -- their No. 1 Job?
The budget limits congressional ability to halt the rants on tariffs & the market disruptions risking a global recession.
More chaos.
Deliberate, and carefully planned chaos.
Wait until they try to dissolve the Legislative Branch as "unnecessary waste."
Just like you said — “May we all be inspired”
Angus stated in his Instagram feed, “ Ultimately I decided the risk of a shutdown with Trump, Musk and Vought in total control of its implementation (do you think they would deem the courts “essential” for example) outweighed the problems of the bill. It’s important to realize that a no vote on the bill was a yes vote on the shutdown (with no clear path out) and I could not with clear conscience take that risk.”
I understand that, but our clearly essential courts have been unable to enforce their rulings, so the practical effect is equivalent. There's an incalculable value in contrasting what is right with the damage being done with no restraint on the perps and for standing up for your values, or should I say, "our" values.
Betsy, neither of the two options were good for the Democrats . They just let themselves cornered and no way to get out of there. As much as what they voted for revolts my stomach the other option would produce the same effect.
If the effect would be the same, or even similar, we needed the Senate Dems, like those in the House, to be united against the Muskovites and to explain clearly the dangers that this administration is posing to all of us.
Betsy, Carol, Marlo, Helen, et al: I also was certain that the Angus King and the Democratic Senators should have shut down the government until I read this in a Substack comments: Trump WANTED the government shutdown because he would be authorized to: 1. decide which operations are essential and which are not; 2. decide which employees are exempt and which are not; and 3. decide which payments will be withheld and debts defaulted. Schumer noted that Trump could even shut down court proceedings; and the courts have been the only place where DEMS have been winning battles. The DEMS in Congress were doomed to fail because they don’t have enough political power. No matter what DEMS do, Trump is going to try to destroy the federal government. The worst thing the DEMS can do now is blame each other for not stopping Trump when, really, none of them have any political power to stop Trump. The fight now is in the Courts. Public opinion is not stoping Trump. The markets (I.e. Wall St) can’t stop him. Maybe Trump voters who are NOW suffering will start vocally rejecting him and hopefully vote differently in 2026 & 2028. But these voters aren’t ever going to listen to AOC … nor will they care if a Democratic Senator “lacked courage” to shutdown the government to stick it to Trump. Schumer is standing up to Trump. If a DEM can’t see that, it’s a shame.
Thanks for explaining the whole picture Roxanne. That's why I said to Betsy that any of those two options revolted my stomach. We need not just stronger leaders but also intelligent enough as not being forced to pick between two evils. Thanks again.
Roxanne, while you were writing this, I posted what I'm reposting here.
I understand that, but our clearly essential courts have been unable to enforce their rulings, so the practical effect is equivalent. There's an incalculable value in contrasting what is right with the damage being done with no restraint on the perps and for standing up for your values, or should I say, "our" values.
If Angus King's analysis is correct, if his vote mitigates the damage being caused, I'll apologize, but I think that he's rationalizing his way out of a bad position.
Betsy, my same thoughts about Senator King! I have admired him though he needs more “fire in his soul”. He gives great speeches but now action is needed. Sad to think he can’t be relied on anymore!
Gosh! Get your facts straight people. King voted yea for cloture, the vote that ended debate. And nay on the bill itself. The only Dems that supported the actual bill were Schumer and Fetterman. Yes, the senate has some arcane and, frankly, stupidly complicated rules. But if we can’t be bothered to find out what really happened how effective do you think our protests will be? And beware of getting riled up by MAGAT trolls. I’d put the whole of that last sentence in all caps except yelling is never a good strategy,
Can you give me a source for your comment, susanus? This is what the NYTimes (https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2025/03/14/us/politics/senate-government-funding-vote.html) wrote: "All Republicans but one were joined by 10 Democrats in voting “yes” on the measure to overcome a filibuster and proceed to a vote on the final bill. It required 60 votes to pass." Am I misunderstanding that King and others voted with the Republicans on the cloture bill, meaning that there could not be debate or a filibuster and that the CR then only needed only a simple majority to pass? Is it not true that the ten who voted yes in fact assured that the MAGA bill would pass regardless of how many Dems voted against it? Even if the cloture vote hadn't passed by the more than 60 required votes, the final bill would have passed. According to the Guardian (https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/mar/14/aoc-chuck-schumer-gop-funding-bill), "Only King and Shaheen supported the bill on final passage, which requires a simple majority to pass." So was it Schumer and Fetterman or King and Shaheen who voted yes on the final bill? If you have a source that disagrees with the Guardian, please give the citation. I agree that it's easy to get confused about these kinds of votes, but if you can clarify for me "what really happened," as you advised in your comment, I'd be grateful.
Heather, we as a Nation, will keep that Light, as seen in your photo. I believe in it, and so do all who read your papers!
Awfully dark down here in benighted Alabama.
Ditto in Virginia, especially with Gov. Glenn Youngkin (Trump Lite).
John, see the YouTube song links I posted to Christine’s comment…calling “the light”!
Youngkin showed his true colors when he gleefully declared that DEI was done at the University of Virginia, his hand-picked members of the Board of Visitors having unanimously voting against it.
Thanks, Mara, for this news, especially about the Lt. Governor and Attorney General races. Fingers crossed they all get elected!
I'm in District 10 (also, approx. 40 miles from D.C.) with newly elected Suhas Subramanyam. He took over from Jennifer Wexton, who left Congress due to illness. Suhas has already got at least two town halls under his belt with another one, I believe, coming this Tuesday. I've been seeing him in the local newspapers as well as local media.
https://youtu.be/qbYIKna3G5M
But there are many here in Northern Alabama who are working to make changes. Check out Persistence Pac. It's a group of HSV progressive minded folks who are putting in our time and talents to support local Dems win elections.
I work on hidden history from Greene County. Adam Harris wrote in the Atlantic recently "America's Politics Began in Eutaw, AL." I partially agree! I think Calhoun's 1832 insurrection in S.C. was a beginning too. And, the influence on a S.C. student of Humbolt, John C. Fremont, 1856 Republican Candidate, is significant. Significant through his wife Jessie. Why does Heather Cox Richardson not mention (silence) this historical connection? I believe it helps explain current divisions in America!
Maybe not writing a book on a Saturday night
Why don't you write it? She's up to her armpits in writing.
I will look it up
SW MO, too.
Brian, see the YouTube song links I posted to Christine’s comment…calling “the light”!
Christine, your comment made me think of this song “This Little Light of Mine”…here is a link to a decades old version: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kmg34_dv9sw&t=22s. And another I just discovered, a new riff for the younger generation (way cool!): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_C4XwH7UitU&t=2s. We all, of any age, need to be upping our amps on the light we shine!!!
I love your love for where you live.
An apt analogy at the end. WE WILL join together and we WILL save our country from the oligarchs. It has to be said that they are on a path to privatizing all the workings of our government. This hasn't been expressed very much, but that would be the very worst slavery of all - we would all become serfs in aid of enriching the oligarchs.
Every business with a federal contract knows that they are dependent on Congress to fund their contract every year. It is the cycle of life as a government contractor. So, take some small hope that even if FFOTUS and his puppet master succeed in outsourcing some government business we can turn that around with a real budget on a bright October 1st morning.
Remember: Maine is the state that is always the first to see the light of day.
Actually, it's Alaska.
Or maybe Guam.
Definitely Guam, John.
Guam deserves the rising sun award 🌝.
Done ✔️
Maine sees the sun rise before any other state. Guam is not a state. A small part of Alaska extends beyond the international date line but it is in the same time zone as the rest of Alaska. Can’t go having a part of your state be today and a part being tomorrow. Wreaks havoc.
Nope. the Aleutian Islands have their own time zone; they extend beyond the date line.
Havoc is not a problem; there's too few people out there to get fussed about time.
Alaska is both the furthest west and the furthest east of the United States.
Guam isn't a state.
Nope, Alaska is the far west.
Alaska is also the farthest east. Aleutian Islands extend beyond the date line.
🌞
Fortunately, being first is an abstract distortion that matters less than enjoying the light surrounding us wherever we are.
Somewhat like being the first precinct to vote in a national election.
I think it is these lovely historical "mini-lectures" that I love most of all from the great Professor. I read with anticipation to see what hint/connection to modern action is presented. Thank you for your lessons and detailed record of today's insanity.
Happy Birthday, Maine … from this grateful Michigander
I love the history lesson, and what a beautiful photo 💕
Thanks for inspiring hope in these deeply troubling times.
Dear Goddess, Heather! Thank you for these memorable words on this memorable day, written during a time of chaos, darkness, fear, and uncertainty by a woman who stands, like Maine in 1860, as a beacon to humanity.
Things are possibly a bit more complex these days but I hope your words - and the words and actions of many others - continue to shine encouragement into our souls as we stand strong in the fight for Democracy.
America. 🇺🇸 May she be Beautiful again. 🇺🇸
https://indivisible.org/. This looks to be an amazing way to organize in your state or in your community! See if there’s a chapter near you!
God may this happen again, right now, among a critical moment where all of our voices combined will matter and determine the course of our future.
Oh, and May The Adze Be With You!! (Yeah, yeah, I know, lame, but it’s late and that’s all I got!) G’night!
…and May the Force be with us all! We’re going to need it!
This was a lovely story. People from the past remembered is a delight. Compendiums of old diaries always fascinated me.