Former president Trump has always approached debates as professional wrestling events in which the key is not to explain policies or answer questions, but rather to demonstrate dominance over your opponent.
It is unfathomable to me that at this point any rational voter required 80 minutes of debate to make a decision about who should be sworn in as President in January 2025.
We have the four years of chaos, corruption, and lawlessness of Trump's 1st term versus governance and leadership, not only of the Biden/Harris Administration, however the dedication to public service by VP Kamala Harris and Governor Tim Walz throughout their lifetime.
While I'm pleased that VP Harris was able to provoke the criminal Trump into his usual array of toxic lies, his tired barrage of racist and xenophobic attacks on immigrants, and fundamental ignorance about economics, the facts and evidence of the Trump Administration versus the Biden/Harris Administration are in plain sight.
Anyone who still believes that China will effectively pay for tax cuts for billionaires (the centerpiece of Trump's campaign), I have a wall to sell you (that was paid for by Mexico), and a non-existent replacement of the Affordable Care Act.
It is unfathomable to many of us that more Americans seem unable to see through the toxic web of lies that is the essence of Donald Trump, but that is the reality of the voting public. CNN had a panel of 13 undecided voters in PA. By the end of the debate 9/13 had made their decision and 6 or 7 out the 9 were committing to Harris.
There is less than 2 months to the election and the sliver of independent and undecided voters will choose the next President on November 5th. If Harris is able to build on the momentum she will surely get from the thorough trouncing of Trump tonight, then her chances look very good.
This was one of the worst debate beat-downs I have ever seen, and I have been watching debates for nearly 50 years. I was laughing and my schadenfreude was in top form as I gleefully watched the masterclass in dismantling Donald Trump that Kamala Harris displayed. She looked positively Presidential and played Trump like a Stradivarius. I am more hopeful than ever about Harris' chance of winning the Presidency.
Thank you Charles. I often write that any meaningful democracy requires an educated, informed, and engaged society. (Aside from economic policies that do not lead to extreme wealth concentration).
I’ve witnessed all three pillars assailed throughout my journey through American life. The numbers of people who are either willfully ignorant, or, those who base their decisions on racist, misogynist and/or xenophobic hatred obstruct our progress and weaken us as a nation by elevating incompetent and/or corrupt leadership.
It is frustrating and maddening to think of where our society could be, versus having to re-litigate settled law and debate around equality, climate, tax fairness, and the role of the justice system.
There are no easy answers, however, we will never be able to solve them if we don’t first acknowledge there are major weaknesses that have been exploited by organized concentrated wealth, and working on significant changes throughout the legislative and judicial branches of government.
No one would be safe in a second Trump term. Everyone and everything would be dependent on the whims of a mentally ill criminal experiencing cognitive decline at an alarming pace.
The founders absolutely did NOT want a king. They did not want a state based on the whims of one person. They had already experienced that situation. That’s what the right wants to take us back to . WE ARE NOT GOING BACK!!!
Completely agree. An informed electorate is the cornerstone of democracy. Jefferson's wrote "if I had to choose between a government without newspapers or newspapers without a government, I should not hesitate a moment to prefer the latter." The fact that this election is even close confirms that we no longer have the society you describe. How did we get here? I'd start with the failure of public education. Voters with even a rudimentary grasp of civics, American and world history would not have given tRump a foothold on the political stage. The country also seems to have suffered a moral collapse. People are refusing to reject a figure who is incompetent, corrupt, deceitful, traitorous, evil, though most know him to be all those things. How do we extricate ourselves and heal a country divided along educational and economic lines? No facile answer to that, I'm afraid.
Thanks Chris. I track it back to the Lewis Powell memo in August of 1971, and then Reagan’s horrific Administration leading to the concentration of wealth and the decimation of higher education. Every GOP administration from Reagan on has been about concentrating wealth. If more people understand economics, they would have run him out of town, not elected him Governor or President. And throughout this time media has consolidated and has abdicated the responsibility of the Fourth Estate for the pursuit of profit.
George, all those people complaining about the cost of consumer goods should understand that they will for high tariffs, not China or any other foreign entity.
Isn’t it amazing that Republican voters attribute the higher prices of groceries post pandemic to the fault of Joe Biden and fully accept the disaster of future Tarriff’s to be imposed if tRump is elected?
There was a good chance for a factual explanation of tariffs - obviously tffg does not understand them, and his followers certainly dont. Its not all that mind boggling to look up online, for petes sake, if someone was curious enough.
I agree Michele, but Kamala missed an opportunity to briefly describe how tariffs work (for the debate viewers) and to embarrass Trump. I support with pride how calm and poised Harris conducted herself, even with seeing how exhausted she was last night. A few disappointments that I saw was ABC skipped over the Climate Crisis (putting it towards the end, which Trump had already got away with not answering the questions), Harris should of clarified why our groceries are so expensive (rising production costs and workers increased wages) and offer to make a compromise with how Biden has alienated the voters (who want the war in Gaza and Ukraine to end). She was tired and repeated her policy for Small Business and Opportunity Economy over and over.
Debate moderator David Muir kept calling Trump "President Trump" was in bad taste and ABC inserting T&A commercials inside a Debate for the President was seriously pretty bad judgement.
As a former educator, Chris, I have plenty of things to say about the problems of public education including the overwhelming place of sports, including the hiring of bad teachers because they are coaches. I am glad to note that Tim Walz is an exception to this because many are also good teachers. I also taught government classes because at that time, middle 90s, the class was required for graduation. Then came No Child Left Behind (pfft) and standardized testing which is a death knell for critical thinking. All this dreck came from above and many teachers hate this and work hard to be there for their students. Teachers are also an easy target for the public and add to that now, the culture wars. The far right wants to destroy public schools and they are sometimes too successful. I am reminded of a map of Houston today showing the placement of school libraries colored to show poorer and richer neighborhoods. Guess which ones have more school libraries and which ones have far fewer.
I was in my 12th year as a school librarian/teacher when NCLB hit and dramatically changed K-8 teaching. The cost of the tests is phenomenal, requiring school districts to cut teaching staff to pay the testing companies. In middle or higher income area schools, students tested well enough that the schools could still teach science and social studies, art and music. In poorer areas, schools (and teachers) were punished for poor test results, judged to be failing, and required to devote most of the school day to reading and math. They became isolated and boring. Gone were the integrated units that incorporated all the subjects and usually included something of interest to every student. The first one I collected resources for was a 3rd grade class studying the ocean. It incorporated history and geography (like ancient mapping and exploration), science (ocean currents, biology (deep water and shoreline plants and animals, food chains), math and language (requiring a final report on a chosen animal). It was comprehensive and engaging.
The focus on testing and the time and money it requires has seriously damaged public schools.
Danielle, I'm with Michelle - your explanation and concrete examples are the clearest summation I've ever read of what gets lost when we emphasize standardized tests. I remember tons of details from those complex, multileveled units from my primary and middle school years. OF COURSE conservatives don't want that kind of critical thinking. OF COURSE they want to turn kids off school. Real food for thought, thank you!
We also have a very long history of anti-intellectualism in this country and I don’t really see that abating anytime soon. My wife was an educator for decades and she said that often it felt like an uphill slog.
Please understand I’m in no way blaming teachers, who by and large do a magnificent job, and are unconscionably undervalued by our society. I cannot imagine the frustration so many public school teachers must feel, who in all but the wealthiest districts are trying to do their jobs with one hand tied behind their backs by budgets, the insistence on standardized testing you cite, lack of support from parents or failure of same to create a good learning environment at home, the emphasis on sports over academics at the high school level, and now the intrusion of politics with Republicans eager to ban books and control curricula. I have the utmost respect for teachers and fervently hope that some day our country will choose to value them appropriately…with luck before we fall too far behind the rest of the world in educational attainment.
I didn't read your comment as blaming teachers, so no need to apologize. I just wish people knew of the wonderful things happening despite all the problems. However, most of what I see is when schools are having problems or some teacher has run amok as I read this am about a cheer coach. The so-called good news is usually that someone has been hired as the football or basketball coach. Often the problems are caused by school boards and administrators. If school have a good super or an individual school has a good principal, they are lucky. I worked in a small district where often supers and sometimes principals were looking at the current job as a jumping off place to a bigger district and higher pay. We had one super who started all sorts of programs which sounded good on her resume.
‘No Child Left Behind”, Special Ed teachers called it “All Children Left Behind”. They they have destroyed the public school system. My daughter is a teacher and I’m am a retired Special Ed teacher. Last Friday, I called her at 6:00pm, she was still in her classroom working. If you are interested in finding out what has happened to public education volunteer.
Not this baby boomer, Barbara. What I saw in the '60's in reference to segregation vs. inclusion, was all I needed to see. It was a no brainer to ally myself with the left of center.
I am turning 60 soon and am on the cusp between baby boomer and Gen X. My teen years were dominated by positive calls for diversity and multiculturalism by both Republicans and Democrats. I believe in our American "melting pot" which is actually more an amalgamation. Yet I was Republican for much of my youth (probably due to my father, who loved Reagan) until I realized the extent of their lying and willingness to punch down. Now I have joined you as left of center.
I'm not even sure what left and right means, but economically, hard left seems to think that in an ideal society, nothing is privately owned (and, long ago, I met some with that idea) and hard right (who I know from more recently) think that anything that isn't private shouldn't be; privatize schools, roads, even the military. Neither seems practical (though feudal monarchy seems to mirror the vision of the hard right and there have been small communal communities that don't seems to scale well). I see private and public sector having distinct but complementary roles.
I also see a split that appears to track right and left that seems on the one hand to draw authority from the past, assumes that we already have all the answers, and trusts the authority of designated persons over empirical proof, which again seems to track feudalism, and the Enlightenment concepts of proof through careful logic and tracking evidence. Authority of the methodology over the presumed infallibility of the person, Einstein and Newton over the Scholastics' bowing to Aristotle. A fair amount of the Enlightenment approach, which tracks soft left against today's hard right, appears in the Constitution. The presidency is a job description, a role to fill faithfully, not a coronation.
I think that civics education is essential to a viable democracy; but it's hard to keep it from degrading into indoctrination. The 1950s public school education I received about the USA and how things get done was largely myth, much of it outright fantasy lore, and the rest Disney-idealized. The founders left us a great gift with good bones; the Constitution and the imperfectly protected yet essential right to vote. But real Civics would teach our responsibilities to an equitable society, and how to identify what we need to know to responsibly decide. Education to empower the student to think carefully and responsibly. We need citizens not robots.
Barbara S, good point. I'm 66, I feel like I have more common sense than a lot of other people my age. The other thing that I've noticed, in addition to being somewhat elderly, a lot of his followers are white. I think they are genuinely scared of where they are going to fit into society in our changing world. Trump's dogwhistles to them are becoming more and more obvious. I'm white, but I was married to a black man a long time ago. It really gave me a different perspective, and a greater appreciation for the diversity in this world.
Voting behavior has been studied intensely for more than a century. Very few demographic attributes align well with voting behavior over time. One that does seem to be relatively consistent is population density. The parties have not always been liberals in one, and conservatives in the other, so party voting over a long time doesn't say much. However, if you look at the characteristic of the two parties at the local level, then by precinct, those with 20 or fewer people per acre tend to vote conservative, and those with 25 or more per acre tend to vote liberal, with those in the 20-25 people per acre being the swing precincts. This aligns well with the old notion that the suburbs tend to have the swing precincts. There are plenty of exceptions to this demographic voting behavior trend, but it is one of the more reliable ones over the long haul.
There are people of each generational category in precincts of all density profiles, but the ability to afford to buy a house, which for a long time has been biased toward buying in the suburbs, tends toward older people who have accumulated the ability to make the down payment. That did put a lot of us boomers into those swing districts - but our numbers and influence are rapidly declining.
I do wonder if the rise in high density urban housing presages a long term future trend toward a more liberal electorate. Alas, I will not be around to get a good answer to that question, as it won't become that clear until later in the century.
That's perverse, but I'm not surprised. The endpoint of MAGA is this absurd contrarianism where cult members are against everything: the rule of law, the establishment, science, facts, reality.
It strikes me that 9-11 broke us. Yes, the oligarchs have had major influence, but being attacked on our own soil, while initially bringing us together, was exploited by GWB into a war on terror - where we had to fear and fight an enemy with no uniform, no identifiable identity. Therefore we started with hating all Muslims, but the ripples were ever-widening to include foreigners in general, “liberals” who challenged the fear-mongering, etc. As usual, the GOP exploited the internal conflict for their own purposes. And as the GOP became more autocratic and social media spewed propaganda, the oligarchs jumped in with their newfound goal of eliminating all constraints on their wealth and power. (My two cents.)
That’s the MO of authoritarian takeover, George ..reiterating Substack’s dire history lessons for the past 3 solid years. That so many people are refusing to give that the major focus of reality dumbfounds me.
With the polish of professionalism many including yourself comment,add to, and suggest further reads to…plus the expert well noted writers …only lends credence to the many cult followers, set in concrete. I am following up the immigrant issue with a little research of my own knowing people in some of the specific areas -for first hand opinions…stay tuned folks. My contributions are minuscule in comparison , quite contrary to my learning …proof positive old dogs can and do …I’ll leave humor mostly to the comics .
I did not plan to ‘watch’ but did. And, noting first comments out of some die hards was the ABC duo Muir and Davis weren’t fair at all…au contraire but that’s what Fox,OAN,NewsMax likely blurted and they don’t listen to anything but. Whine ,complain, doom and gloom…what the hell is attractive about that lying , huh?
Thanks Swifties 🫶 too , and all you childless Cat Ladies 😂 …sisters show ‘em HOW.TO.SHINE👏
Remember George, when Reagan first ran for governor of California, he railed against the Free Speech Movement and the Anti War movement that affected General Electric, the largest weapons manufacturer in the world, for whom he was their face and spokes person as the host of GE Theater, inocculating the people to his calming presence. That was the setup.
His first action as governor was to appoint right wing idiologue Max Rafferty as Superintendent of Public Instruction. Rafferty embarked on a mission that soon after swept the nation to, ostensibly, save taxpayer dollars by focussing on the three Rs and eliminating "Frills", like art, music and and courses that engaged the mind and fostered critical thinking.
Dumbing down public education was a very effective Rightwing WEAPON.
So true, Ransom. And it still is. Hence the infiltration of the far right into school boards and libraries to ban books and dictate curriculum.
I was talking to my neighbor this morning. He's 30-something. We were discussing housing and his inability to buy a house due to lack of down payment, and I remarked that part of Harris's economic plan was to help with down payments for first-time home buyers. He said he watched the debate and it seems to him both Harris and Trump were talking about doing that. I said it is not part of Trump's economic plan and he would never do that. I stated that Trump lies excessively, giving the examples of immigrants eating dogs and babies being executed after they are born. Well, he said, that is happening in places, like China and India, to control the population. I explained the facts to him, which I know very well because I adopted a baby from China in 1998. The point being, he is uninformed and uneducated. He thinks babies in China and India are being executed after they are born. And he made the leap that it could be taking place here.
I also substitute teach in the public schools in Lancaster County, PA. It is harder for a substitute teacher to fully see how much students know and understand about their world because subs are ignored. But from what I've observed, it is not enough.
Well said, George A Polisher! I believe that social media is making these negative traits worse. It seems like the most ignorant people get the biggest megaphone nowadays.
True Catherine. The press falls over one another every time Elon is pushing a more imbecilic statement than the last from his deep well of ignorance. They treat Trump with the same reverence.
George, in addition to agreeing that there are no easy answers, I feel compelled to say there is one easy answer to one simple question.
Question: Who matters? Choose one of three options. Option 1 is everyone. Option 2 is not everyone. Option 3 is that there is no Option 3. The one simple answer is Option 1.
Choosing Option 1 raises all kinds of questions with no easy answers, only the suffering necessary to make a better tomorrow. Choosing Option 2 raises all kinds of questions with no easy answers, only unnecessary suffering.
Thank you for your observation about American democracy.
Man has a tendency to accumulate power and wealth at the expense of those who are weaker. In democracy it is possible to control the onslaught of those with power by government policies.
You can support justice or you can cheat. Unless someone stops you, you can easily accumulae more money and power if you cheat. To secure a just society, governments are instituted among the people, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed.
We each get an (ideally equal) share of responsibility for our own society's outcomes , but it requires due diligence and good faith to make those choices responsibly. Idly referencing “people on television” as Trump did to verify his Haitians eating pets claims against him. Dominion Voting Systems was awarded millions in damages. Haitians in Springfield should get even more.
George, you are right about the people who will vote for appalling candidates due to their racism and misogyny. I find that so sad. I have heard people say that if we are going to make real change, it will have to begin with the very young as they come up and wait for the old to die off. I have hope we can do better than that. There is a core of folks who cannot be reached, but I think a lot can be. We need to find the best arguments and expose those people to folks different from themselves so they can understand those people are not out to get them or harm them in any way and that accepting them will not diminish themselves. It will be hard, but some people are out there knocking doors helping to find the best ways to reach at least some of the angry, fearful, resentful potential haters to bring them a different, more healthy, hopeful way of being in the world. I hope they succeed.
Thank you Ruth. I don’t think the world can wait for the next generation. I do have hope in “Kitchen Table Democracy”. I may be naively optimistic (at times, until I read the news) and think that most people want similar things. Clean air, safe and good tasting water, decent food, clothing, shelter, enough money to save for a rainy day emergency, healthcare, a decent world-class education system, and to feel safe in their homes, their communities, and when they travel. They want a livable planet where we’ve preserved and stewarded breathtaking beauty for our children, grandchildren, and generations yet to come. They want economic opportunity and fairness. They want our taxpayer investment into society to be used effectively to address our priorities.
We are intentionally divided by people like the convicted felon, people like Elon Musk, people like Rupert Murdoch, Steve Bannon, and Putin -so they continue to gain power and wealth while we remain effectively conquered.
George, I think you are right about people wanting most of the same things, that is until someone hints that THOSE people want to get what they want from taking ours or not working hard enough or cheating or some other excuse to put a group or more than one group under them as somehow inferior. Maybe a way to reach those scared people is to assure them that Democrats do not want to come for what they have, but that Republicans are currently plotting to take away a lot of the rights people have, rights that people value, just because they want power, probably money too. Then, give examples of how we can work together on making things better for everyone. Working together is so much better and more fun than working against each other, at least for most people.
“Dear America, You are waking up, as Germany once did, to the awareness that 1/3 of your people would kill another 1/3 of its people, while a 1/3 watches.” -Werner Herzog
This is the danger that ABC and other media ignores with “both sides-ism. The candidates are not equal.
Ted, that was so well said! How is it we can't get our supposedly "mainstream" media to pay attention. They still can't say the word "lie," when Trump spews his lies. They fact checked a couple of things last night, but the best they could say was "there was no evidence." That is not the same as calling something a lie, and there are some people who don't even get that "no evidence" means either a lie or right now that statement can't be proven, neither of which is good when someone is spouting crap.
I’m frustrated to. I miss Jim Lehrer, Walter Contrite, and the Fairness Doctrine. Nothing is forever, and I think the political winds are changing. It’s been 40 years. We are now more unequal than the last peak 1929-30. There’s so much we can do to fix this. Harris/Walz ‘24!
The classic movie Citizen Kane directed, produced, and starred in by Orson Welles will one day in the future, have a remake only this time the main pseudo-fictional character will be Donald Trump. The movie scene will open with a very bloated relic of his former self; uneven orange-smeared makeup slobbed across his face in bed. His overgrown blond hair is found similar to the muss of Boris Johnson’s now showing gray roots from lack of up-to-date hair dye. He periodically wakes from a semi-conscious state at his future dilapidated Mar-a-Lago residence (for lack of having sufficient funds to upkeep the property due to previous constant litigation and losses.) He looks around demanding more Kentucky Fried Chicken wings as low paid personal rush in another bucket and his last word is not “Rosebud” as in the movie Citizen Kane but:
“Stormy.” And the ex 45th president of the United States expires. The camera fades to black then opens at Le Club in the early disco 1970s, a members-only Manhattan nightclub in the East 50s, where models, fashionistas and a variety of Eurotrash (including his wife) went to be seen.
“The government has just filed suit against our company,” said Trump, “saying we discriminated against Blacks. What do you think we should do?”
The Roy Cohn obedient ass-kisser to Senator Joe McCarthy hearings accusing entertainment personalities of being communists shoots back, “Tell them to go to hell and fight the thing in court and let them prove you discriminated against them.”
Roy Cohn has become Trump’s go-to lawyer and fixer.
Cohn admonishes the young Trump to 1. Never settle. Never surrender. 2. Counter-attack, counter-sue immediately. 3. No matter what happens, no matter how deep into the shit you get, claim victory and never admit defeat.
These lessons were found to be the essential attributes of his future self.
Pam, it seems to me that Trump's cult wants him to be as ridiculous, nasty, incoherent, and hateful as possible because they think he has some kind of secret knowledge he is bringing to them through his terrible behavior. The only thing he has for them is a place to hide their racism, misogyny, xenophobia, homo/transphobia, ageism, and more. They are so glad to have someone who can mirror their fear, anger, resentment, and actual hatred, while they still believe they can claim to be christian. It is pretty pathetic, but really dangerous for the rest of us.
Sadly that is not how tribal works. A FB friend figured Trump trounced Kamala at the debate. Bit of a fanatic, even a lot of Republicans thought Trump had blown it. The "tired old playbook" is the only thing he has.
I know what you mean--I mirrored Harris's smile during the debate and it's still pasted on. trump's melt down could not have been lost on millions of people who only watch FOX...
Actually I have two. I'd say generally they're pretty happy. One last night cuddled up with me in bed, now the other on my lap at the sofa as i munch breakfast and type this note. I do have two adult kids. I'm closing in on 80 myself!
Me too, Mary! I always wake up when the morning light comes peaking in but this morning, it was my 5 year old grandson who woke me up to full on daylight. What a great night's sleep!
I was surprised that he used some of his most outrageous lies. I thought he might have been urged to stick to some of the harder to so easily track ones. The debunked claims about Haitians was a real -Ignorance-is-Strengther. His Hitlerian hate-speech against immigrants was was louder and plainer than ever.
J L, the problem for Trump, he can no longer distinguish among the many lies as to which will go over best. That is why he runs a whole string of them together, hoping it will make him sound smart and aware when it really makes him seem like a man living with dementia, which is what he actually is.
Exactly, Ruth! He can no longer control his thoughts or emotions and it will continue to get worse. Imagine him sitting with world leaders, unable to comprehend the discussion but still wanting attention by repeating the only things he still can recall: nasty women, crowd sizes, criminal aliens pouring across the border and immigrants eating dogs….
I can envision several Broadway musicals, depending on whose point of view the production centers around, and also depending on who you cast for which roles!
Imagine if Pinter or James Goldman wrote the script versus Neil Simon -
You’d be surprised. There was a dastardly double-murder in Minnesota in 1977. It occurred in a mansion and was allegedly perpetrated by the adopted daughter (and her husband) of the rich woman and her night nurse. Nasty, right? It was turned into a hilarious musical at the History Theater that has been running every year - and half the audience has attended multiple times (I’ve seen it four times). I could easily picture the Trump sequel. Think of all the hilarious quotes and criminality. I would go, for sure.
Bill, this statement says it all “Cohn admonishes the young Trump to 1. Never settle. Never surrender. 2. Counter-attack, counter-sue immediately. 3. No matter what happens, no matter how deep into the shit you get, claim victory and never admit defeat.” The most powerful of all, “never admit defeat”. And his followers have embraced this philosophy and why those who say I am undecided is because they simply cannot admit error in judgement. It is so difficult for people to admit they may be wrong or made a bad choice. Is it because we persecute people for changing their mind and call out every action as flip flopping? Is it because it is perceived as being weak? I am thankful for my parents letting me know, no one is perfect, we make mistakes, the important thing is to recognize it, learn from it and don’t repeat it. And especially, it may mean you “settle” and you acknowledge the mistake.
So at this moment the only path forward to see a build a future is to stay focused and VOTE BLUE UP AND DOWN THE TICKET. after a strong victory at all levels we can begin the process of healing and rebuilding.
There is a good chance that when citizen Trump wakes up if he loses the election, he will discover that he has no hair at all. They will shave it all off in jail.
Fun to write. Painful to have to live through. And so very tired of it. Could be a brilliant movie but I must confess I liked the last line of your script best.
Great summary, Charles, if that CNN mini poll holds up, it's Harris by what today's standards in polarized, selectively jerry mandered USA, we'd call a landslide. 5% switch is about what "first past the polls" democracy needs to get clear majorities.
Charles, a lot of Facebook friends reported that they were laughing and memes were appearing before the debate was even done. We laughed and yes, shouted some iteration of lie and lying at the TV. As someone noted, the only time death star did not lie is when he announced he was very different kind of person. I was interested in the side shots of him that seemed to show him as some kind of person who just walked out of a cave. In contrast, Harris was articulate and spoke directly to the audience about what her vision is. Loved that Taylor Swift capped off the evening.
Please Charles, don't associate Trump in anyway with a Stradivarius. It's an insult to the instrument and fine music. For one Donald Trump who is so out of tune, the Stradivarius should not suffer such an inharmonious screech from a tone-deaf malcontent.
Charles, I also chortled gleefully during most of the debate. If it’s unkind to point to Trump’s cognitive decline, his apparent slide into dementia, then color me unkind. It’s beyond imagination that the American voters would select him to lead the most powerful nation on earth, but it could happen. I was very grateful that Trump is not the sitting president, with the nuclear football within arm’s reach. He would have nuked Kamala during the debate…. If he could remember the launch codes, which is dubious.
You'd think it was clear that Trump has no business being charge of the nuclear codes but .... I watched the BBC Livestream; after the debate a Trump flak saw a completely different performance than most of the world did. If the race continues to be tight it will be because so many Donny Diehards are as delusional as he is.
I was still a child when it occurred to me that the world seemed to be divided by those who wanted to exert influence over others by reciprocity and persuasion and those who wanted to assert their influence though some form of violence. Over the years I have nuanced that view, but not changed it.
Yes. The first approach is usually used by an educated, enlightened, self-reflective person with empathy and understanding, while the second approach is usually the tactic of someone with no insight and who feels deeply insecure and inadequate.
I think that politics on any level, even i a family, is about the process we use to decide whose will prevails. That can be cooperative and mutually generous or it can be coercive and dictatorial, and complicated in between. Some look to the greatest good for the greatest number (while defending universal individual human rights), and some are drawn to "might make right", gang up on and subjugate others. "Good and evil" can get hard to fully pin down at times, but I think the contrast between care and conquest is stark. Throughout history, we humans have been our own worst enemies, and that could kill us all.
Just say "NO" to the "Tower of Glower" (and prosecute his ass).
I think of it as choosing one of three options where mutual respect is the ideal option, unilateral respect is the less-than-ideal option, and mutual distain is the worst option. Respect has a small short-term cost and an enormous long-term benefit, distain has a small short-term benefit and an enormous long-term cost, and violence is one of distain’s enormous long-term costs. Kamala Harris understands. Respect is bred in her bones.
Harris delivered the performance we all hoped she would, but I'm sure the right wing media will explain to us how he won the debate.
This isn't necessarily a bad thing. If the polling shows Harris with a comfortable lead, will complacency set in and people feel they don't need to vote?
There is still much work to do and as hard as most of you are working to help Harris and Walz we can't let up until the last vote is cast.
And even if we think we've got a slam dunk, remember Hilary, and even MORE important, we need every single voter, EVERY ONE, to create an undeniable MANDATE. We need to not only win, we need to shove an enormous lump of democracy down the MAGA gullet to make it perfectly clear: WE ARE NOT GOING BACK.
Miselle, Trump continues to set the stage for claiming the election was "stolen" when he loses. I'm very concerned that something even worse than January 6th might be in the works.
Catherine, for sometime now I have had that same thought and then I think I must be having conspiracy theories thoughts but… when I see the lies and egregious acts by the Republicans and the Supreme Court as well as the lower courts with tffg’s appointees it is almost like they know how it ends.
Barbara White-Thompson, I live in Northeast Tennessee. Most people around here are Trump fanatics. And they all have lots of guns. I have to be careful what I say around here. I've made some friends, but whenever politics come up, I get quiet. I wish I could afford to move somewhere else!
I hear , Gary, on more than one score the electorate is more stimulated and attentive than usual, in some ways, all time highs. tba. I dont think you need worry much about "complacency" being an issue.
It’s the same old Wizard of Oz spin. I watched Rubio try to dress this pig-of-a-performance up. (and wow! My apologies upfront here to pigs) Looney Tunes!
At least they won't expand.... it's all up to turnout now, something which can throw polls quite off if they get that wrong given how many Americans typically do not vote, and especially how the so called independents, usually ex GOP/Dems, vote.
Polls already indicate above average voter interest and voting intentions. 2024 may well be a revisiting of the enthusiasm Dems won under Obama in 2008, and a landslide trifecta.
MisTBlu, after the debate Trump went to the “spin room” himself rather than depend on a surrogate to defend his performance. All of the pundits I heard were sure that this was an action born of desperation: “Only I can fix this”.
According to this essay that Robert Ritchie posted to Joyce Vance's Substack on 9.9.2024, Trump would have met their expectations, which are low. they want him to "sic it to the other guy." What they consider that to be he was doing. So, I think he please his constituency, and she pleased hers, but will it be enough to get new ones signed up, and out to vote, and the swing voters did not get clear enough information to make a choice, because Trump does not tell them what he is going to do, just what he is not going to do. Here is the essay about the Donnie Diehards.
The Cult of Opposition: Understanding the Psychology Behind Trump’s Supporters
In modern political discourse, the relationship between leaders and their supporters often reflects a symbiotic exchange—one of mutual benefit. Typically, a leader provides tangible improvements to the supporters’ lives, who in turn offer their allegiance. However, Donald Trump's presidency introduced a paradigm shift that baffled many analysts. A significant portion of Trump’s base does not measure his success by what he does *for* them, but rather by what he does against those they consider adversaries. This phenomenon raises a critical question: why do Trump's supporters define his success not by policy achievements or personal benefit but by his ability to antagonize perceived enemies? In this research paper, we explore the psychology, sociocultural factors, and communication strategies behind this phenomenon, offering a deep dive into the mechanisms that sustain this unwavering loyalty.
The Psychology of "Othering"
At the heart of this dynamic lies a fundamental psychological concept known as *othering.* Othering refers to the process of creating a division between "us" and "them," where "them" are people deemed different or antagonistic to one's own group. Social identity theory posits that individuals derive part of their self-worth from their membership in groups (Tajfel & Turner, 1979). When Trump attacks certain groups—be they immigrants, Democrats, or marginalized communities—his supporters feel that their in-group (conservative, predominantly white Americans) is being validated. The "other," typically those outside their cultural or political bubble, becomes a target of scorn and aggression. By constantly positioning himself against these groups, Trump reassures his supporters that they are on the winning side of a cultural war.
This is where the success metrics diverge from typical political calculations. Success, in the eyes of Trump's supporters, is not rooted in economic growth or policy achievements, but in the symbolic victories won over those they disdain. Trump’s antagonistic rhetoric serves as a rallying cry for a base that measures success by how effectively he torments the "other."
Fear as a Unifying Emotion
The divisiveness Trump exploits is not built solely on disdain for others but on deep-rooted fear. Research has shown that political conservatism often correlates with heightened fear responses (Hibbing, Smith, & Alford, 2014). These fears manifest in concerns over demographic changes, perceived threats to cultural identity, and economic anxiety—particularly in the wake of globalization and immigration. For Trump’s base, he offers not only validation of their fears but also an outlet for their anxiety: the vilification of outsiders.
By acting against these outsiders—whether through harsh immigration policies, vilification of the media, or incendiary tweets targeting "leftist elites"—Trump provides a sense of catharsis to his supporters. It’s not about building bridges or creating new opportunities; it’s about protecting their identity and keeping perceived threats at bay. In their minds, Trump’s success is defined by his defense of the status quo against forces of change.
The Appeal of a Strongman
This dynamic is exacerbated by the allure of authoritarian leadership, often characterized by a leader who promises protection and order while silencing dissent. Trump's rhetoric—filled with hyperbole, aggressive language, and dismissive attitudes toward political correctness—resonates deeply with those who feel disempowered by societal changes. Studies have shown that authoritarian personalities are drawn to leaders who project strength and offer simple, binary solutions to complex problems (Feldman, 2003). Trump’s combative style against the "other" fits neatly into this framework.
In this context, Trump is seen as the protector, someone who will go to any length to defend his supporters from external threats. His aggressive behavior—though often condemned by critics—is perceived by his base as a strength. In their eyes, his relentless attacks on groups like the media, the "deep state," or racial minorities are evidence of his success as a leader willing to do whatever it takes to secure their safety and identity.
The Role of Media and Propaganda
An essential factor in maintaining this dynamic is the role of right-wing media in amplifying Trump’s actions *against* others while downplaying or ignoring any lack of substantive achievements. Fox News, Breitbart, and other conservative outlets often frame Trump’s attacks on immigrants, liberals, and the media as necessary battles in a larger cultural war. Through selective reporting, these outlets reinforce the idea that Trump’s presidency is less about improving the lives of his supporters through policy and more about the symbolic victories he achieves through opposition to their perceived enemies.
Trump himself understood the power of media manipulation, often stoking controversy to keep his name in the headlines. As noted by philosopher Hannah Arendt, in authoritarian regimes, propaganda serves to simplify the world into friend versus foe (Arendt, 1951). By keeping the public focused on his skirmishes against the "other," Trump ensured that his base remained engaged and energized, even when his policies provided little material benefit to their lives.
The Social Contract of Aggrievement
This relationship between Trump and his supporters can be understood as a kind of *social contract of aggrievement.* While traditional politicians offer economic benefits, infrastructure improvements, or social programs, Trump offers emotional validation. His base, particularly those who feel marginalized by economic shifts or demographic changes, finds solace in his outward displays of aggression. His ability to provoke outrage in the "other" reassures them that they are still relevant in a world they fear is changing too fast.
Interestingly, this contract does not require Trump to follow through on traditional metrics of success like job creation or healthcare reform. His supporters are not primarily concerned with how he improves their lives directly. Instead, they focus on how he reinforces their worldview—one where they are under constant attack and where Trump is their defender. This emotional satisfaction creates a loyalty that transcends policy, rooted instead in the shared sense of grievance and resentment.
Conclusion: A Loyalty That Transcends
In understanding Trump’s success, it is critical to recognize the unique metrics by which his supporters measure his achievements. His base does not primarily seek economic relief or policy victories; they seek validation of their fears and grievances. By acting *against* the "other," Trump provides emotional and psychological sustenance that traditional political figures often fail to deliver. His success, therefore, lies in his ability to symbolize and enact opposition rather than constructively improve the lives of his supporters. As long as Trump continues to antagonize those perceived as threats, his base will remain loyal, even in the absence of tangible benefits.
In the end, the tormenting of the "others" does more than sustain them—it defines them.
May the best team win. Viva la Kamala! Viva la Coach!
Linda, this is an outstanding essay, and articulates what I have observed yet did not want to believe in my former work cohort. It isn't about the issues, it is about asserting their white, male, Christian, heteronormative, cisgendered supremacy over those of us who are missing one or more of those 5 listed categories.
The fact that men under 30 are leaning into conservatism, which is another name for extremism, is deeply concerning. We need to be shutting down, X, Telegraph, Truth Social, 4Chan, and all of these other hate filled sites. I think that social media should not be allowed to be anti-social media. There is nothing in the constitution that says we have to allow free speech on these venues. We also need serious gun laws. I hope that Tim Walz can be considered a new sort of male role model, but apparently what I consider Normal, like Tim, is considered radical to many.
I have been sharing an essay by Robert Ritchie from Joyce Vance's Substack on September 9, 2024, about what Trump voters want from him. I think he delivered that. That is, they want to think he stands up for them and they don't care about policy or if he delivers what he says, because they think he takes on the establishment. I think Harris delivered for her voters as well and maybe some other people. However, I wonder about Swing voters, because I don't think that they would be clear from the debates. Trump did not say any plans for policy, and so, if one wanted to get that, I don't believe it helps people who never thought about Harris to choose her if they cannot find out these policy things themselves. This is why I am not for debates. It seems to me that what matter is getting the vote out. I have been hearing that Straight Men under 30, who are in a crisis are not feeling included in the Democratic Party, but Trump is speaking directly to them on the social media platforms they frequent. I also heard a farmer interviewed on a German documentary looking at Trumpland. This Georgia farmer said he wants to hear what they will do for farmers. I have not seen if this is defined but we will be reading The Department of Agriculture section of Project 2025 in my Democrats Abroad Book club for next week's discussion. Here is the paper, sorry it was unattributed.
The Cult of Opposition: Understanding the Psychology Behind Trump’s Supporters
In modern political discourse, the relationship between leaders and their supporters often reflects a symbiotic exchange—one of mutual benefit. Typically, a leader provides tangible improvements to the supporters’ lives, who in turn offer their allegiance. However, Donald Trump's presidency introduced a paradigm shift that baffled many analysts. A significant portion of Trump’s base does not measure his success by what he does *for* them, but rather by what he does against those they consider adversaries. This phenomenon raises a critical question: why do Trump's supporters define his success not by policy achievements or personal benefit but by his ability to antagonize perceived enemies? In this research paper, we explore the psychology, sociocultural factors, and communication strategies behind this phenomenon, offering a deep dive into the mechanisms that sustain this unwavering loyalty.
The Psychology of "Othering"
At the heart of this dynamic lies a fundamental psychological concept known as *othering.* Othering refers to the process of creating a division between "us" and "them," where "them" are people deemed different or antagonistic to one's own group. Social identity theory posits that individuals derive part of their self-worth from their membership in groups (Tajfel & Turner, 1979). When Trump attacks certain groups—be they immigrants, Democrats, or marginalized communities—his supporters feel that their in-group (conservative, predominantly white Americans) is being validated. The "other," typically those outside their cultural or political bubble, becomes a target of scorn and aggression. By constantly positioning himself against these groups, Trump reassures his supporters that they are on the winning side of a cultural war.
This is where the success metrics diverge from typical political calculations. Success, in the eyes of Trump's supporters, is not rooted in economic growth or policy achievements, but in the symbolic victories won over those they disdain. Trump’s antagonistic rhetoric serves as a rallying cry for a base that measures success by how effectively he torments the "other."
Fear as a Unifying Emotion
The divisiveness Trump exploits is not built solely on disdain for others but on deep-rooted fear. Research has shown that political conservatism often correlates with heightened fear responses (Hibbing, Smith, & Alford, 2014). These fears manifest in concerns over demographic changes, perceived threats to cultural identity, and economic anxiety—particularly in the wake of globalization and immigration. For Trump’s base, he offers not only validation of their fears but also an outlet for their anxiety: the vilification of outsiders.
By acting against these outsiders—whether through harsh immigration policies, vilification of the media, or incendiary tweets targeting "leftist elites"—Trump provides a sense of catharsis to his supporters. It’s not about building bridges or creating new opportunities; it’s about protecting their identity and keeping perceived threats at bay. In their minds, Trump’s success is defined by his defense of the status quo against forces of change.
The Appeal of a Strongman
This dynamic is exacerbated by the allure of authoritarian leadership, often characterized by a leader who promises protection and order while silencing dissent. Trump's rhetoric—filled with hyperbole, aggressive language, and dismissive attitudes toward political correctness—resonates deeply with those who feel disempowered by societal changes. Studies have shown that authoritarian personalities are drawn to leaders who project strength and offer simple, binary solutions to complex problems (Feldman, 2003). Trump’s combative style against the "other" fits neatly into this framework.
In this context, Trump is seen as the protector, someone who will go to any length to defend his supporters from external threats. His aggressive behavior—though often condemned by critics—is perceived by his base as a strength. In their eyes, his relentless attacks on groups like the media, the "deep state," or racial minorities are evidence of his success as a leader willing to do whatever it takes to secure their safety and identity.
The Role of Media and Propaganda
An essential factor in maintaining this dynamic is the role of right-wing media in amplifying Trump’s actions *against* others while downplaying or ignoring any lack of substantive achievements. Fox News, Breitbart, and other conservative outlets often frame Trump’s attacks on immigrants, liberals, and the media as necessary battles in a larger cultural war. Through selective reporting, these outlets reinforce the idea that Trump’s presidency is less about improving the lives of his supporters through policy and more about the symbolic victories he achieves through opposition to their perceived enemies.
Trump himself understood the power of media manipulation, often stoking controversy to keep his name in the headlines. As noted by philosopher Hannah Arendt, in authoritarian regimes, propaganda serves to simplify the world into friend versus foe (Arendt, 1951). By keeping the public focused on his skirmishes against the "other," Trump ensured that his base remained engaged and energized, even when his policies provided little material benefit to their lives.
The Social Contract of Aggrievement
This relationship between Trump and his supporters can be understood as a kind of *social contract of aggrievement.* While traditional politicians offer economic benefits, infrastructure improvements, or social programs, Trump offers emotional validation. His base, particularly those who feel marginalized by economic shifts or demographic changes, finds solace in his outward displays of aggression. His ability to provoke outrage in the "other" reassures them that they are still relevant in a world they fear is changing too fast.
Interestingly, this contract does not require Trump to follow through on traditional metrics of success like job creation or healthcare reform. His supporters are not primarily concerned with how he improves their lives directly. Instead, they focus on how he reinforces their worldview—one where they are under constant attack and where Trump is their defender. This emotional satisfaction creates a loyalty that transcends policy, rooted instead in the shared sense of grievance and resentment.
Conclusion: A Loyalty That Transcends
In understanding Trump’s success, it is critical to recognize the unique metrics by which his supporters measure his achievements. His base does not primarily seek economic relief or policy victories; they seek validation of their fears and grievances. By acting *against* the "other," Trump provides emotional and psychological sustenance that traditional political figures often fail to deliver. His success, therefore, lies in his ability to symbolize and enact opposition rather than constructively improve the lives of his supporters. As long as Trump continues to antagonize those perceived as threats, his base will remain loyal, even in the absence of tangible benefits.
In the end, the tormenting of the "others" does more than sustain them—it defines them.
Thank you HulitC. I was going to start going through all my Substacks once I did not find it there. I appreciate your doing this. I see we have some of the same good company in our Substack choices.
Linda, perhaps I am wrong but while this lengthy post offers us insights into a different metric for Trump loyalist it feels like it leaves one key element out.
Kamala Harris showed people that there is another way. She stated several times that it is time to move forward, not backward. She acknowledged that many, maybe even some of his followers, are eager to move forward. She invited voters to join this call to move beyond vitriol and hate.
I am eager to see this Harris invite resonate with even a few of our fellow citizens. We know that our fellow Americans are better than what we have seen since a showman stepped off the escalator.
Thank you, Madam President. She showed our best last night.
John, I feel like the movement does not happen with the deep MAGAs, but with the Republicans who are not MAGA and are seeing each moment when Harris is speaking as a job interview. One was her speech at the Democratic National Convention, and another was in her interview during prime time on CNN with Walz, and then last night was another job interview. She is perhaps getting visibility in the internet with influencers. There are a lot of ads for her out by her team, Lincoln Project and Now This Impact. In between these interviews I am learning about Project 2025, and glad that she has posted positions on her website, to make comparisons in policy. I am living in Germany where only 10% of the eligible American voters who live here are voting. That is very untapped. One problem with recruiting people, is that we have to find Americans in our cities, because German privacy laws means we cannot get access to any lists of people. So, we create events, and go to events where we think we will find them, and we give information on how to do this.Many people think, I live abroad, how can what happens in the US affect me, so I need to have a stump speech to convince them.
I think the article explained reasons for true MAGAS being unmovable. They aren’t interested in policies or ideas to move forward. We all know people who just won’t budge and believe all the lies. Because it feeds them. Hopefully independents and undecideds are the ones she will reach.
I thought that was a Robert Hubbell piece unless he was quoting it. Anyway, we fully understand why Trump has mastered the art of demagoguery. Now it’s all in to get everyone to the polls. I’m waiting for responses to queries on working in eastern PA on Election Day. Connecticut doesn’t need me. Anyone who can link with activists in battleground states please do. Flood the states with volunteers.
if anyone would like to come help in Wisconsin, please check out WisDems.org. We need help and you can do a lot of it virtually right now. Also still seeking poll observers for day of, please! I can get you signed up.
DJT was relatively Restrained for DJT... Kamala did Magnificently as many have Hoped... She Stood Tall & Strong... Kamala did not need a Step to stand on to Tower Over DJT... DJT became Seething... Reminds me of his Reactions at the 2011 Washington Correspondents Dinner that motivated DJT to run for President when Obama Roasted DJT... This Fury will motivate DJT to Steal This Election Any-Which-Way-That-He-Can... Coach Walz was also Excellent Afterwards... GO COACH!!!... Can't Wait For The VP Debate... Let's See If The Dark Siths Stick With DJT... Thank You Kamala!!!
Thank you and agree. I do believe that DJT is already highly-motivated to occupy the White House by whatever means necessary in order to pardon the multitude of crimes he has committed and to enrich himself through corruption. He has no motivation to govern -and that should be painstakingly obvious to anyone paying attention to any of his actions and word salad speeches.
The debate confirmed my suspicions that the man is seriously ill. He couldn't stay on topic, ranted and raved about "illegals" destroying our country, and made some statements that were, frankly, hilarious (e.g., something about performing transgender operations on illegal aliens in prison).
Yet the NBC News reporter on our local news program this morning didn't even mention his incoherent rambling and lies, lies, and more lies... as if this was the typical ho-hum presidential debate! Huh?!!
Trump was more contained for a longer stretch than I have seen in the past. Something about his manner seemed flat to me, like he was tired or drugged, but that that may be just my projection.
I agree - I thought that in the final, say, half hour of the debate - I did not see it all - he was very 'calm' and contained - though he said nothing but lies and fantasies.
Too bad Harris did not have the time to shut him up on a couple, like the last-minute allegations of all the money Biden has supposedly got from various countries (and knowing why the wife of the mayor of Moscow would want to give him millions of dollars would challenge even a person - if there is one - who understands the connection between electric boats and sharks)
His closing line of 'well, if you've got all these great ideas, why haven't you done them in the past three and a half years?' Answer: A. we have done a lot of good, and B. because your flying monkeys in the House won't let us. the President is not a king (or queen) ruling by decree.
Tragically, I fear it will move the needle little or not at all with the MAGATS. Cognitive dissonance on display. I can't get over the feeling that half the population (those old ladies at the Villages wearing their stars and stripes mini skirts) believe this is all a TV program starring Dump.
Nice to read about another side to The Villages. It might point to the radical idea that many of us in retirement actually pay attention to various sources and make up our minds accordingly.
I lacked the mental strength to watch the debate; it was my birthday and I was yelling at the TV whenever he spoke. Instead, I watched Night Shift, with Henry Winkler and Michael Keaton. I awoke to the news of Harris' great performance and Taylor Swift's endorsement, and today I shall watch the debate! We try to tell ourselves that we can stay calm in the face of this existential threat to everything that makes America a beautiful place, but I remember the deep disappointment on election night of 2016, and one never knows when their last birthday is upon them. So, I thought I'll watch it tomorrow if I wake to find that things went well. So, I'll enjoy the debate today!!!!
Happy Birthday Janet! I could not watch either, on my Dvd, for today! Did watch "Bringing out the Dead" with Nick Cage! His breakdown in being an EMT reflects how I have been feeling re trump, debate etc. Glad to read debate went well and my Dr gave me better than expected news about my broken arm! So true about birthdays, for a moment I thought I had celebrated my last. May you have many more Janet in good health...
Thank you! My first thought on waking this morning, after watching the entire debate and a snippet of analysis after, was that I just am gobsmacked that this is what we're engaged in to elect the next POTUS. And when he started down the road of "you've been in office, why haven't you done it already?" I wanted her to remind us about The Wall, but she was too busy reminding us about the "better health care plan" he had that never materialized. She really owned him.
Every day I think how could this be a close race -but then I’m (sadly) reminded that Noem, DeSantis, and Abbott are governors, and that Boebert, Taylor-Greene, Jordan, Comer, and Gaetz are in Congress.
I think America has been playing football without a helmet for too long.
Great performance by Vice President Harris. A pet beef: ABC failed to cut the microphone that would have forced the former President into off-line interruptions. The yelling would have also brought out in bold relief the bullying and coarse ways of the former President; it would also have made him even more unhinged. I wonder why the moderators lacked the gumption to do that.
It would have been good if they could have corralled the follow-up question responses. But to your point, next to a calm, well-informed, and prepared former prosecutor, I thought the convicted orange felon looked very, very unhinged.
Thanks Shawn. And as media has consolidated and become beholden to profit it has become easy to distribute propaganda and disinformation as was discussed in “Manufacturing Consent” and Brave New Film’s expose about Murdoch and Fox “News”.
I’ll check it out. And read “Stop Reading the News” by Rolf Dobelli. It outlines how we are bombarded with entertainment, not info. There is no big picture. Just one indecipherable bomb after the next. The goal is to make noise, not provide content or context.
George, thank you for a pithy statement. I well remember the “replacement” that the Republicans came up with during Trump’s term—the first thing that it gutted was the assurance that insurance companies could not charge horrendous premiums for people with preexisting conditions (at least they would be able to get insurance).
Thanks Mary. Other than Nixon creating the Environmental Protection Agency, I really cannot think of one policy they’ve offered for the good of society. It’s all about concentration of wealth while dividing us.
OMG you guys, I just saw the coolest lady on TV tonight. She came face to face with the Devil and beat him back into the ground without even a single bead of sweat marring her perfect makeup.
Super impressive! Someone should make her President!
She didn't sweat, but did he? I detected the light picking up something under his nose, and it looked like a trickle of sweat which he dare not swipe and muss his pancake makeup.
Yes! I saw that too. Hope to see it again on the news. He started Wicked Witch meltdown. I’m annoyed that the moderators could not control him and seemed slow on the microphone turnoff. And why call him president trmp.? And an abc post “debate” panelist said Kamala did not talk about her presidential priorities!!! Seriously??!! 🙀🤯😢
Gigi, Agree!! Next time, you might try MSNBC post debate panelists. It will be more enlightening and enjoyable. I too was most bothered by moderators calling him “Mr. President” and not shutting off his microphone as he ranted on and on. However, moderators did do a big better than I expected. Fortunately, Harris did not seem bothered enough by his lies and growing anger to let it impact her debate performance, which was exceptional. She put him in his place without losing her cool, ability to think, and her priorities.
It’s good that they let him ramble a bit. He does himself no favors. He goes into deep lies and absurdity. I felt the same at first- that Harris didn’t get time, but had hoped before that he could go off the rails, and he did.
That bothered me, too, about calling him "President" Tr... Were they even turning off the microphones? But my partner & I muted him every time he opened his mouth - why listen to what he says? Lies, all lies.
I thought he said that, and I forgot. Thanks for bringing that up. Michael Steele called tfg a “pissed bigot.” Bet he won’t do another debate. She judo-flipped him to the floor and put a spiked heel on his chest.
I didn’t notice whether he was sweating, but he is obviously looking at a heart of darkness. Metaphorically, he is looking at a pond thinking he can see America below the surface and not liking what he sees, except that all he sees is his reflection.
That handshake was a very nice power play. If she didn't think of it herself, whoever suggested it deserves a big bunch of flowers. His team must have been kicking themselves. It would have looked so gracious if HE had done it!
Mind you, they might have suggested it - and he couldn't bring himself to. . .
It was not simply that she shook his hand. That would be standard.
What made it a BOSS move was that she took the initiative and marched herself over to his spot and casually insisted on herself before he could do anything other than slouch. She declared herself the adult in command before a single word was uttered, and he never recovered.
I am sure it was discussed at length with her team....my new Youtube buddy, John Flannery thought that she should not. However, since SHE initiated it , it was a great power play.
He didn't say her name because his brain still thinks his opponent is Biden. He didn't look at her once, not once, because he HATES that she's the Dem nominee instead of Joe.
AND, MisTBlu, he doesn’t shake hands with women (see meeting Angela Merkel while President). He’ll kiss them, hug them, put his hands on their shoulders (or elsewhere) but not shake their hands as one might acknowledge an equal (see above:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Donald_Trump_and_handshakes).
Good point, John. IMO, she freaking owned him with that gesture. I also heard that she introduced herself, providing him the accurate pronunciation of her first name.
The Merkel thing was such an embarrassment. It went beyond his inability to treat her as a peer and extend the graciousness due her, it was his body language: that thing he does with hanging his arms between his legs as he slumps away from the chair back all while not looking at who ever he's talking to.
He (and his ilk) just cannot get over the woman thing. He is absolutely sent into a tailspin by the idea he could be dominated not just by anyone, but by [gasp, shudder] a "she!" In his shallow, ugly, bigoted world, "she"s are naturally always subservient, losing to a "she" is unthinkable, and all "she"s who attempt to invert this order are horrible creatures and must be cut down to size.
He can't seem to do that with this particular "she!" She stands to have the power he craves instead of him, because people like her more.
Do you remember Hillary and Trump's town hall debate where Hillary was speaking and Trump was walking back and forth behind her like he was going to hurt her. That intimidating action showed exactly who he is.
This. It was either ‘she’ or ‘her’. It became even more glaringly obvious when he was able to address the moderators by name. Not only that he was unable to even look at her. Now who looked old tonight? Brava to the Harris team.
Well, I was hoping he would drop his drawers and sling the contents of the diaper. Or at least go on a rant like the childcare rant or the sharks and batteries. But I shall have to be satisfied with pet-eating, WW3, and abortions at 9 months...
And don't forget the governor of West Virginia or Virginia He couldn't seem to make up his mind which State he wished to insult) who put new born babies aside to decide whether to kill them or not - man that Governor whoever he is must be one busy dude to attend every birth in the State. Also it is impossible to abort a baby that is already born. What an imbecile.
Fay, perhaps this was calculated by Harris and her debate prep team, but I thought after he talked about these "executions" and "abortions after 9 months" that a clever response might have been "The only 'executions' to children are caused by males with military-grade weapons slaughtering them in classrooms. We must do better to protect our kids from gun violence."
Doug, What just came to my mind when I read: "'executions' to children are caused by males with military-grade weapons slaughtering them in classrooms" was Gaza, which is a hot potato no one dare mention.
Harris did mention the thousands of Palestinians being killed in Gaza and said the shooting must stop ASAP and she and Biden will keep working continuously for that - and that there must be a two-state solution ...
"A hot potato" and a sobering thought that's not a win/lose debate game of quick assertions. Israel/Gaza/West Bank, with all its history and current regional complexities, requires deep dialogue with no easy answers, what's the venue for that? I won't answer that but I'll go back to a book I love to get myself on track; it's "The Ending of Time", by a spiritual leader and a physicist. Krishnamurti and David Bohm.
Described in a Goodreads summary:
"This very important work offers penetrating dialogues between the great spiritual leader and the renowned physicist that shed light on the fundamental nature of existence. Krishnamurti and David Bohm probe such questions as ‘why has humanity made thought so important in every aspect of life? How does one cleanse the mind of the ‘accumulation of time’ and break the ‘pattern of ego -centered activity’? The Ending of Time concludes by referring to the wrong turn humanity has taken, but does not see this as something from which there is no escape. There is an insistence that mankind can change fundamentally; but this requires going from one’s narrow and particular interests toward the general, and ultimately moving still deeper into that purity of compassion, love and intelligence that originates beyond thought, time, or even emptiness."
"Also it is impossible to abort a baby that is already born. What an imbecile."
It is absolutely an idiotic notion. However, consider that the Repub platform this year actually nods to the notion of "fetal personhood." This is an ultimate goal of the evangelical nationalists that by now are their most irreplaceable base of support. These folks truly believe that "life begins at conception," and they believe that fervently and literally. Now consider that to someone for whom that belief is sincerely held, they see no difference between an embryo and a small child. To them, if you are willing to have an abortion for any reason, that action is morally indistinguishable from drowning your child because you decided you didn't want it anymore. Someone willing to advocate for something so self-evidently evil should never be trusted or allowed to have any of their other ideas infiltrate society, correct?
The logic actually follows, but the key belief it rests upon (a baby from moment of conception) is patently, destructively ludicrous. This is both why the propaganda sticks, and why religious fanaticism is so dangerous.
Will, I got into it with a former sergeant of mine, whose wife is a former DA in our county. He made that "post birth abortion" argument to me. I asked him what the homicide definition was in Oregon. He quite correctly defined human being under our statute. ORS 163.005 (3): "“Human being” means a person who has been born and was alive at the time of the criminal act." I then said that this "post birth" seems to fall under the definition of human being, to which he agreed. I then told him that it isn't an "abortion" at that point but a homicide. His learned, experienced educated response: "Not if they call it an abortion." Complete and utter GARBAGE.
JD, the classic sales slogan is to "Sell the sizzle, not the steak." Well, we know what sizzled last night: an orange azz, fried by a Lady on Fire. 🔥🔥🔥.
Dems should remember that when sending me a mountain of boring, ridiculous emails. I got one from repubs by obvious mistake, but it was indistinguishable from Dems except the names. They are not working with me and plenty of voters are sick of them. I will donate what I can but never respond to the idiotic emails. In fact I will unsubscribe. I need no crap to know who to vote for. I knew when I was a pup. Sad that so many are “undecided” when the choice is between good and evil.
Just delayed unsubscribing, but finally had to. I have about five places that I feel are good places to put my few bucks. Wish I had Soros’ resources but not close. Just do what I can.
I had a family member who did her Obstetrics & Gynecology Residency at "Keck School of Medicine os USC". Yes, that is the one that anyone can see from miles away up on the hill near downtown LA.
"You will find that our graduates are highly recruited for academic & community practice" cuz' the young Docs are ready for the real world serving real women & real families".
Is Kamala Harris finally the dragon slayer we've been waiting so long for? Even Fox News and the WSJ admit Trump lost the debate. Gen Z men, an important demographic, also seemed quite impressed with her. Here's a really funny impression of Trump's performance by J.L. Cauvin. https://jimbuie.substack.com/p/kamala-harris-dragon-slayer
Jim, my first thought after watching the debate was that she not only slayed him: she skillfully *exsanguinated* him, on live tv. While he attempted to attend to his wounded tender ego by attacking her, his political life was bleeding out on the stage, plain as day to all viewers.
Just to be clear, young men are an important *turnout* demo. They are not a persuasion/swing demographic (i.e. in terms of who they might support when the votes are in). This has been driving me absolutely bonkers recently. Young people are one of the key Dem pillars of support, so naturally media has got to stir the pot calling into question all the ways in which Dems might be "in trouble" with them. After the candidate becomes a woman, cue the articles playing up the gender gap, which inevitably provoke people's anecdotal sharing about an un-progressive young male friend of their nephew or whatever...
None of the actual data we currently have backs this up, and neither does common sense. Harris will almost certainly win young men by healthy double digits. The campaign's goal is not to win that demo, but to win that demo by 20%. The only reason there is a gender gap is because she is almost guaranteed to win young women by 30%. This is not a matter of young men being up for grabs. It is a matter of young men being solidly liberal versus young women being overwhelmingly, ridiculously liberal. This is like being worried someone might steal your hamburger because they are merely vegetarian rather than vegan.
Rather than the dragonslayer, I view VP Harris as the DRAGON! 🐉 I recommend you read the book When Women Were Dragons by Kelly Barnhill. Superb feminist literature.
Lol, great impression! There was too much to capture, but threatening WW III was a damning highlight, too.. Hard to know to laugh or cry. It's good to read the young bucks may be impressed with examples of good leadership. I know around here they can be pretty self-important, lol. I'm all for that if it supports our democracy, the importance of every demographic.
Brilliant strategy by Kamala and her team. Just piss him off before the duel, just like Miyamoto Musashi did. I did hope he would become so angry, he’d just self-destruct and explode right in front of the camera. Oh well, it’s nice that he lost this time - and it was a woman that beat him. Schadenfreude pur. I like that punch in the face that Taylor Swift gave him and Vance, too. All in all a good day :)
I loved hearing about the pre-debate needling blitz…finally the Dem’s have found some mojo! (And what a comparison to Hilary walking out to Rise Up…I like the song but, really, what an undertone of struggle rather than liberation.)
That was a great victory for Kamala last night and for me personally i read an article that the lying Nate Sliver pollster was predicting that TUMP has a 64% chance of winning and i learned Sliver was being funded by TUMP loving billionaire, Peter Thiel. For the past 4 years i had suspected Sliver was a GQP hack and from what i read in that article finally proved i was right about my suspicions about Nate Sliver. ( His last name is correctly spelled ''Silver'' but Sliver better suits my opinion of the creep) I feel more optimistic about the election after Kamala's performance than i have i quite a while! The Taylor Swift endorsement was very encouraging also.
Yes, i sure will, it was on the www. rawstory.com website. You could likely find it on it's sister site, www. alternet.com. September 10, 2024 edition. I personally do not know why anyone trusts that Nate Sliver 538 polling site. Nate Sliver is a phony and a GQP supported site to spew lies and disinformation about elections. They never mention it when he has been horribly wrong when he predicted Biden would lose the 2020 presidential election.
My opinion of him exactly. I am so sick and tired of TUMP and these demented fools that actually believe all the lies that freak of nature despot. TUMP needs to be thrown into a pit full of rattlesnakes.
Harris played Trump like a fiddle and looked presidential doing it. It is beyond me how anyone can look at or listen to that buffoon and think he should be President.
Best, I loved seeing the orange felon gnash his teeth and fume and stew and exaggerate and fulminate about all those murderers, rapists, and escaped mental hospital inmates flooding over the U.S. southern border.
Moderator Muir caught him doing this again once time too many and asked him point blank why he ordered his spineless followers in Congress to scuttle the bipartisan border deal. Heather, too, cites this in hers tonight -- because the convicted criminal refused to answer, but went off instead on his usual crowd size nonsense (after Kamala had baited him on that).
But then again, the fat felon did answer -- his answer his steady stream of hysteria as to the surging murderers, rapists, and mental hospital escapees from all over the world. He demonstrated he killed the border bill that he killed because he needs this sensationalized set of lies as his only real offering.
So the good cat ladies of America (so many good Swifties of all ages, genders, and skin colors) all had a pretty nice evening.
A thug accosted him and a girl, and the girl gasped to him about the thug, He has a knife!
Crocodile Dundee laughed with pity for the thug, and assured the girl -- pulling out his own most-proper knife -- that the thug's wasn't any kind of knife at all, but his own most certainly was.
Kamala's presence, mastery, ownership, and presidential mark all most certainly was what the orange thug on stage with her all most certainly was not.
Wow! Did you hear that collective sigh of relief breathed by the majority of women in our nation?
From Harris's striding into Trump's space to introduce herself to him to Trump's quick descent into incoherent, wildly nightmarish rants, Harris dominated the debate. And, she really had his number.
She knew how to shame him into telling more and more thoroughly discredited lies, revealing himself as the weak, unhinged old man he really is. I don't think anyone would argue about who won that debate -- it was clearly our next President, Kamala Harris.
The future POTUS Harris graciously held back from using the term "dementia" when describing her opponent but then, she didn't have to as he openly self-owned it himself every time he spoke. It was a beautiful thing to witness.
Charles, I saw a brilliant meme on Threads soon after the debate concluded, saying along the lines "do you ever wonder what's going through someone's mind..." while then showing various cuts from movie scenes "Idiot!" "Moron!" And several saltier ones, before settling on "former president". Hilarious!
Thank you Professor Richardson.
It is unfathomable to me that at this point any rational voter required 80 minutes of debate to make a decision about who should be sworn in as President in January 2025.
We have the four years of chaos, corruption, and lawlessness of Trump's 1st term versus governance and leadership, not only of the Biden/Harris Administration, however the dedication to public service by VP Kamala Harris and Governor Tim Walz throughout their lifetime.
While I'm pleased that VP Harris was able to provoke the criminal Trump into his usual array of toxic lies, his tired barrage of racist and xenophobic attacks on immigrants, and fundamental ignorance about economics, the facts and evidence of the Trump Administration versus the Biden/Harris Administration are in plain sight.
Anyone who still believes that China will effectively pay for tax cuts for billionaires (the centerpiece of Trump's campaign), I have a wall to sell you (that was paid for by Mexico), and a non-existent replacement of the Affordable Care Act.
It is unfathomable to many of us that more Americans seem unable to see through the toxic web of lies that is the essence of Donald Trump, but that is the reality of the voting public. CNN had a panel of 13 undecided voters in PA. By the end of the debate 9/13 had made their decision and 6 or 7 out the 9 were committing to Harris.
There is less than 2 months to the election and the sliver of independent and undecided voters will choose the next President on November 5th. If Harris is able to build on the momentum she will surely get from the thorough trouncing of Trump tonight, then her chances look very good.
This was one of the worst debate beat-downs I have ever seen, and I have been watching debates for nearly 50 years. I was laughing and my schadenfreude was in top form as I gleefully watched the masterclass in dismantling Donald Trump that Kamala Harris displayed. She looked positively Presidential and played Trump like a Stradivarius. I am more hopeful than ever about Harris' chance of winning the Presidency.
Thank you Charles. I often write that any meaningful democracy requires an educated, informed, and engaged society. (Aside from economic policies that do not lead to extreme wealth concentration).
I’ve witnessed all three pillars assailed throughout my journey through American life. The numbers of people who are either willfully ignorant, or, those who base their decisions on racist, misogynist and/or xenophobic hatred obstruct our progress and weaken us as a nation by elevating incompetent and/or corrupt leadership.
It is frustrating and maddening to think of where our society could be, versus having to re-litigate settled law and debate around equality, climate, tax fairness, and the role of the justice system.
There are no easy answers, however, we will never be able to solve them if we don’t first acknowledge there are major weaknesses that have been exploited by organized concentrated wealth, and working on significant changes throughout the legislative and judicial branches of government.
No one would be safe in a second Trump term. Everyone and everything would be dependent on the whims of a mentally ill criminal experiencing cognitive decline at an alarming pace.
The founders absolutely did NOT want a king. They did not want a state based on the whims of one person. They had already experienced that situation. That’s what the right wants to take us back to . WE ARE NOT GOING BACK!!!
And then - we think of tffg's vp choice - really dont want to contemplate his ascending to the WH!
Thank you Jenn.
Well said.
Completely agree. An informed electorate is the cornerstone of democracy. Jefferson's wrote "if I had to choose between a government without newspapers or newspapers without a government, I should not hesitate a moment to prefer the latter." The fact that this election is even close confirms that we no longer have the society you describe. How did we get here? I'd start with the failure of public education. Voters with even a rudimentary grasp of civics, American and world history would not have given tRump a foothold on the political stage. The country also seems to have suffered a moral collapse. People are refusing to reject a figure who is incompetent, corrupt, deceitful, traitorous, evil, though most know him to be all those things. How do we extricate ourselves and heal a country divided along educational and economic lines? No facile answer to that, I'm afraid.
Thanks Chris. I track it back to the Lewis Powell memo in August of 1971, and then Reagan’s horrific Administration leading to the concentration of wealth and the decimation of higher education. Every GOP administration from Reagan on has been about concentrating wealth. If more people understand economics, they would have run him out of town, not elected him Governor or President. And throughout this time media has consolidated and has abdicated the responsibility of the Fourth Estate for the pursuit of profit.
I’d add every GOP administration from Reagan on has also been about taking control of the judiciary.
I couldn’t agree more about the media.
George, all those people complaining about the cost of consumer goods should understand that they will for high tariffs, not China or any other foreign entity.
Isn’t it amazing that Republican voters attribute the higher prices of groceries post pandemic to the fault of Joe Biden and fully accept the disaster of future Tarriff’s to be imposed if tRump is elected?
There was a good chance for a factual explanation of tariffs - obviously tffg does not understand them, and his followers certainly dont. Its not all that mind boggling to look up online, for petes sake, if someone was curious enough.
I agree Michele, but Kamala missed an opportunity to briefly describe how tariffs work (for the debate viewers) and to embarrass Trump. I support with pride how calm and poised Harris conducted herself, even with seeing how exhausted she was last night. A few disappointments that I saw was ABC skipped over the Climate Crisis (putting it towards the end, which Trump had already got away with not answering the questions), Harris should of clarified why our groceries are so expensive (rising production costs and workers increased wages) and offer to make a compromise with how Biden has alienated the voters (who want the war in Gaza and Ukraine to end). She was tired and repeated her policy for Small Business and Opportunity Economy over and over.
Debate moderator David Muir kept calling Trump "President Trump" was in bad taste and ABC inserting T&A commercials inside a Debate for the President was seriously pretty bad judgement.
As a former educator, Chris, I have plenty of things to say about the problems of public education including the overwhelming place of sports, including the hiring of bad teachers because they are coaches. I am glad to note that Tim Walz is an exception to this because many are also good teachers. I also taught government classes because at that time, middle 90s, the class was required for graduation. Then came No Child Left Behind (pfft) and standardized testing which is a death knell for critical thinking. All this dreck came from above and many teachers hate this and work hard to be there for their students. Teachers are also an easy target for the public and add to that now, the culture wars. The far right wants to destroy public schools and they are sometimes too successful. I am reminded of a map of Houston today showing the placement of school libraries colored to show poorer and richer neighborhoods. Guess which ones have more school libraries and which ones have far fewer.
I was in my 12th year as a school librarian/teacher when NCLB hit and dramatically changed K-8 teaching. The cost of the tests is phenomenal, requiring school districts to cut teaching staff to pay the testing companies. In middle or higher income area schools, students tested well enough that the schools could still teach science and social studies, art and music. In poorer areas, schools (and teachers) were punished for poor test results, judged to be failing, and required to devote most of the school day to reading and math. They became isolated and boring. Gone were the integrated units that incorporated all the subjects and usually included something of interest to every student. The first one I collected resources for was a 3rd grade class studying the ocean. It incorporated history and geography (like ancient mapping and exploration), science (ocean currents, biology (deep water and shoreline plants and animals, food chains), math and language (requiring a final report on a chosen animal). It was comprehensive and engaging.
The focus on testing and the time and money it requires has seriously damaged public schools.
Thank you for this detailed account of what NCLB and standardized testing has done. And yes, testing companies making off like bandits.
Danielle, I'm with Michelle - your explanation and concrete examples are the clearest summation I've ever read of what gets lost when we emphasize standardized tests. I remember tons of details from those complex, multileveled units from my primary and middle school years. OF COURSE conservatives don't want that kind of critical thinking. OF COURSE they want to turn kids off school. Real food for thought, thank you!
We also have a very long history of anti-intellectualism in this country and I don’t really see that abating anytime soon. My wife was an educator for decades and she said that often it felt like an uphill slog.
A hardcore, 2 time voter Trumper called into Stephanie Miller today.......all he said was..."that women knocked him out last night."
He is going to consider not voting for him........so democracy lovers......foot to the metal.......we can sleep when we are dead.
Yes. And no it won't because now everyone with access to the internet is an expert.
Please understand I’m in no way blaming teachers, who by and large do a magnificent job, and are unconscionably undervalued by our society. I cannot imagine the frustration so many public school teachers must feel, who in all but the wealthiest districts are trying to do their jobs with one hand tied behind their backs by budgets, the insistence on standardized testing you cite, lack of support from parents or failure of same to create a good learning environment at home, the emphasis on sports over academics at the high school level, and now the intrusion of politics with Republicans eager to ban books and control curricula. I have the utmost respect for teachers and fervently hope that some day our country will choose to value them appropriately…with luck before we fall too far behind the rest of the world in educational attainment.
I didn't read your comment as blaming teachers, so no need to apologize. I just wish people knew of the wonderful things happening despite all the problems. However, most of what I see is when schools are having problems or some teacher has run amok as I read this am about a cheer coach. The so-called good news is usually that someone has been hired as the football or basketball coach. Often the problems are caused by school boards and administrators. If school have a good super or an individual school has a good principal, they are lucky. I worked in a small district where often supers and sometimes principals were looking at the current job as a jumping off place to a bigger district and higher pay. We had one super who started all sorts of programs which sounded good on her resume.
‘No Child Left Behind”, Special Ed teachers called it “All Children Left Behind”. They they have destroyed the public school system. My daughter is a teacher and I’m am a retired Special Ed teacher. Last Friday, I called her at 6:00pm, she was still in her classroom working. If you are interested in finding out what has happened to public education volunteer.
The deficit in this argument is that senior citizens and baby boomers, who DID have plenty of civics education, are often choosing Trump.
Not this baby boomer, Barbara. What I saw in the '60's in reference to segregation vs. inclusion, was all I needed to see. It was a no brainer to ally myself with the left of center.
I am turning 60 soon and am on the cusp between baby boomer and Gen X. My teen years were dominated by positive calls for diversity and multiculturalism by both Republicans and Democrats. I believe in our American "melting pot" which is actually more an amalgamation. Yet I was Republican for much of my youth (probably due to my father, who loved Reagan) until I realized the extent of their lying and willingness to punch down. Now I have joined you as left of center.
Me too.
But, unfortunately, a big majority of white boomers are on the wrong side history. Fortunately, they will soon be history.
I'm not even sure what left and right means, but economically, hard left seems to think that in an ideal society, nothing is privately owned (and, long ago, I met some with that idea) and hard right (who I know from more recently) think that anything that isn't private shouldn't be; privatize schools, roads, even the military. Neither seems practical (though feudal monarchy seems to mirror the vision of the hard right and there have been small communal communities that don't seems to scale well). I see private and public sector having distinct but complementary roles.
I also see a split that appears to track right and left that seems on the one hand to draw authority from the past, assumes that we already have all the answers, and trusts the authority of designated persons over empirical proof, which again seems to track feudalism, and the Enlightenment concepts of proof through careful logic and tracking evidence. Authority of the methodology over the presumed infallibility of the person, Einstein and Newton over the Scholastics' bowing to Aristotle. A fair amount of the Enlightenment approach, which tracks soft left against today's hard right, appears in the Constitution. The presidency is a job description, a role to fill faithfully, not a coronation.
I think that civics education is essential to a viable democracy; but it's hard to keep it from degrading into indoctrination. The 1950s public school education I received about the USA and how things get done was largely myth, much of it outright fantasy lore, and the rest Disney-idealized. The founders left us a great gift with good bones; the Constitution and the imperfectly protected yet essential right to vote. But real Civics would teach our responsibilities to an equitable society, and how to identify what we need to know to responsibly decide. Education to empower the student to think carefully and responsibly. We need citizens not robots.
Well said.
That’s where moral collapse comes in.
Barbara S, good point. I'm 66, I feel like I have more common sense than a lot of other people my age. The other thing that I've noticed, in addition to being somewhat elderly, a lot of his followers are white. I think they are genuinely scared of where they are going to fit into society in our changing world. Trump's dogwhistles to them are becoming more and more obvious. I'm white, but I was married to a black man a long time ago. It really gave me a different perspective, and a greater appreciation for the diversity in this world.
Voting behavior has been studied intensely for more than a century. Very few demographic attributes align well with voting behavior over time. One that does seem to be relatively consistent is population density. The parties have not always been liberals in one, and conservatives in the other, so party voting over a long time doesn't say much. However, if you look at the characteristic of the two parties at the local level, then by precinct, those with 20 or fewer people per acre tend to vote conservative, and those with 25 or more per acre tend to vote liberal, with those in the 20-25 people per acre being the swing precincts. This aligns well with the old notion that the suburbs tend to have the swing precincts. There are plenty of exceptions to this demographic voting behavior trend, but it is one of the more reliable ones over the long haul.
There are people of each generational category in precincts of all density profiles, but the ability to afford to buy a house, which for a long time has been biased toward buying in the suburbs, tends toward older people who have accumulated the ability to make the down payment. That did put a lot of us boomers into those swing districts - but our numbers and influence are rapidly declining.
I do wonder if the rise in high density urban housing presages a long term future trend toward a more liberal electorate. Alas, I will not be around to get a good answer to that question, as it won't become that clear until later in the century.
Some trumpers seem to be proud that they are voting for a felon. There are flags out there that say: I'm voting for a convicted felon."
That's perverse, but I'm not surprised. The endpoint of MAGA is this absurd contrarianism where cult members are against everything: the rule of law, the establishment, science, facts, reality.
It strikes me that 9-11 broke us. Yes, the oligarchs have had major influence, but being attacked on our own soil, while initially bringing us together, was exploited by GWB into a war on terror - where we had to fear and fight an enemy with no uniform, no identifiable identity. Therefore we started with hating all Muslims, but the ripples were ever-widening to include foreigners in general, “liberals” who challenged the fear-mongering, etc. As usual, the GOP exploited the internal conflict for their own purposes. And as the GOP became more autocratic and social media spewed propaganda, the oligarchs jumped in with their newfound goal of eliminating all constraints on their wealth and power. (My two cents.)
That’s another keeper thanks George. You capture volumes of meaning in an economy of words.
I’m pretty frightened by the level of ignorance of Government, political issues and how the impact MAGA triumphant would destroy freedom.
This is beyond party loyalty and is similar to the insouciance of the German people in 1935.
Thank you Hap. Right there with you in the level of societal alarm.
Same here. I can’t understand how people don’t see what is right there in front of them? Dictator or Democracy!
So true Maureen (and almost the title of my last article. The subtitle was “Choices are hard”).
Charles Manson.......Jim Jones......Rev Moon.......Donald J Trump.
Dictator of Democracy??? There is your answer
That’s the MO of authoritarian takeover, George ..reiterating Substack’s dire history lessons for the past 3 solid years. That so many people are refusing to give that the major focus of reality dumbfounds me.
With the polish of professionalism many including yourself comment,add to, and suggest further reads to…plus the expert well noted writers …only lends credence to the many cult followers, set in concrete. I am following up the immigrant issue with a little research of my own knowing people in some of the specific areas -for first hand opinions…stay tuned folks. My contributions are minuscule in comparison , quite contrary to my learning …proof positive old dogs can and do …I’ll leave humor mostly to the comics .
I did not plan to ‘watch’ but did. And, noting first comments out of some die hards was the ABC duo Muir and Davis weren’t fair at all…au contraire but that’s what Fox,OAN,NewsMax likely blurted and they don’t listen to anything but. Whine ,complain, doom and gloom…what the hell is attractive about that lying , huh?
Thanks Swifties 🫶 too , and all you childless Cat Ladies 😂 …sisters show ‘em HOW.TO.SHINE👏
💙💙🇺🇸VOTE BLUE.END THE COUP.💙💙🇺🇸
Remember George, when Reagan first ran for governor of California, he railed against the Free Speech Movement and the Anti War movement that affected General Electric, the largest weapons manufacturer in the world, for whom he was their face and spokes person as the host of GE Theater, inocculating the people to his calming presence. That was the setup.
His first action as governor was to appoint right wing idiologue Max Rafferty as Superintendent of Public Instruction. Rafferty embarked on a mission that soon after swept the nation to, ostensibly, save taxpayer dollars by focussing on the three Rs and eliminating "Frills", like art, music and and courses that engaged the mind and fostered critical thinking.
Dumbing down public education was a very effective Rightwing WEAPON.
Yes indeed. They depend upon creating a society of obedient hyper-consumers.
So true, Ransom. And it still is. Hence the infiltration of the far right into school boards and libraries to ban books and dictate curriculum.
I was talking to my neighbor this morning. He's 30-something. We were discussing housing and his inability to buy a house due to lack of down payment, and I remarked that part of Harris's economic plan was to help with down payments for first-time home buyers. He said he watched the debate and it seems to him both Harris and Trump were talking about doing that. I said it is not part of Trump's economic plan and he would never do that. I stated that Trump lies excessively, giving the examples of immigrants eating dogs and babies being executed after they are born. Well, he said, that is happening in places, like China and India, to control the population. I explained the facts to him, which I know very well because I adopted a baby from China in 1998. The point being, he is uninformed and uneducated. He thinks babies in China and India are being executed after they are born. And he made the leap that it could be taking place here.
I also substitute teach in the public schools in Lancaster County, PA. It is harder for a substitute teacher to fully see how much students know and understand about their world because subs are ignored. But from what I've observed, it is not enough.
Amen to that, George
Well said, George A Polisher! I believe that social media is making these negative traits worse. It seems like the most ignorant people get the biggest megaphone nowadays.
True Catherine. The press falls over one another every time Elon is pushing a more imbecilic statement than the last from his deep well of ignorance. They treat Trump with the same reverence.
George, in addition to agreeing that there are no easy answers, I feel compelled to say there is one easy answer to one simple question.
Question: Who matters? Choose one of three options. Option 1 is everyone. Option 2 is not everyone. Option 3 is that there is no Option 3. The one simple answer is Option 1.
Choosing Option 1 raises all kinds of questions with no easy answers, only the suffering necessary to make a better tomorrow. Choosing Option 2 raises all kinds of questions with no easy answers, only unnecessary suffering.
Thanks James. Definitely Option 1 (although I feel like I’ve gone through phone support now. 🤓)
Thank you for your observation about American democracy.
Man has a tendency to accumulate power and wealth at the expense of those who are weaker. In democracy it is possible to control the onslaught of those with power by government policies.
Very true Hiro and an important reason Trump and his Project 2025 want to eviscerate the Federal government.
You can support justice or you can cheat. Unless someone stops you, you can easily accumulae more money and power if you cheat. To secure a just society, governments are instituted among the people, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed.
We each get an (ideally equal) share of responsibility for our own society's outcomes , but it requires due diligence and good faith to make those choices responsibly. Idly referencing “people on television” as Trump did to verify his Haitians eating pets claims against him. Dominion Voting Systems was awarded millions in damages. Haitians in Springfield should get even more.
George, you are right about the people who will vote for appalling candidates due to their racism and misogyny. I find that so sad. I have heard people say that if we are going to make real change, it will have to begin with the very young as they come up and wait for the old to die off. I have hope we can do better than that. There is a core of folks who cannot be reached, but I think a lot can be. We need to find the best arguments and expose those people to folks different from themselves so they can understand those people are not out to get them or harm them in any way and that accepting them will not diminish themselves. It will be hard, but some people are out there knocking doors helping to find the best ways to reach at least some of the angry, fearful, resentful potential haters to bring them a different, more healthy, hopeful way of being in the world. I hope they succeed.
Thank you Ruth. I don’t think the world can wait for the next generation. I do have hope in “Kitchen Table Democracy”. I may be naively optimistic (at times, until I read the news) and think that most people want similar things. Clean air, safe and good tasting water, decent food, clothing, shelter, enough money to save for a rainy day emergency, healthcare, a decent world-class education system, and to feel safe in their homes, their communities, and when they travel. They want a livable planet where we’ve preserved and stewarded breathtaking beauty for our children, grandchildren, and generations yet to come. They want economic opportunity and fairness. They want our taxpayer investment into society to be used effectively to address our priorities.
We are intentionally divided by people like the convicted felon, people like Elon Musk, people like Rupert Murdoch, Steve Bannon, and Putin -so they continue to gain power and wealth while we remain effectively conquered.
George, I think you are right about people wanting most of the same things, that is until someone hints that THOSE people want to get what they want from taking ours or not working hard enough or cheating or some other excuse to put a group or more than one group under them as somehow inferior. Maybe a way to reach those scared people is to assure them that Democrats do not want to come for what they have, but that Republicans are currently plotting to take away a lot of the rights people have, rights that people value, just because they want power, probably money too. Then, give examples of how we can work together on making things better for everyone. Working together is so much better and more fun than working against each other, at least for most people.
I’m
Yes. “I’m”: I am. An excellent and succinct existential validation. :)
(Sorry, I couldn’t help it).
“Dear America, You are waking up, as Germany once did, to the awareness that 1/3 of your people would kill another 1/3 of its people, while a 1/3 watches.” -Werner Herzog
This is the danger that ABC and other media ignores with “both sides-ism. The candidates are not equal.
Ted, that was so well said! How is it we can't get our supposedly "mainstream" media to pay attention. They still can't say the word "lie," when Trump spews his lies. They fact checked a couple of things last night, but the best they could say was "there was no evidence." That is not the same as calling something a lie, and there are some people who don't even get that "no evidence" means either a lie or right now that statement can't be proven, neither of which is good when someone is spouting crap.
I’m frustrated to. I miss Jim Lehrer, Walter Contrite, and the Fairness Doctrine. Nothing is forever, and I think the political winds are changing. It’s been 40 years. We are now more unequal than the last peak 1929-30. There’s so much we can do to fix this. Harris/Walz ‘24!
Thank you Ted!!!
The Citizen Kane Movie of Tomorrow: Citizen Trump
Donald's Vanity Tantrums)
The classic movie Citizen Kane directed, produced, and starred in by Orson Welles will one day in the future, have a remake only this time the main pseudo-fictional character will be Donald Trump. The movie scene will open with a very bloated relic of his former self; uneven orange-smeared makeup slobbed across his face in bed. His overgrown blond hair is found similar to the muss of Boris Johnson’s now showing gray roots from lack of up-to-date hair dye. He periodically wakes from a semi-conscious state at his future dilapidated Mar-a-Lago residence (for lack of having sufficient funds to upkeep the property due to previous constant litigation and losses.) He looks around demanding more Kentucky Fried Chicken wings as low paid personal rush in another bucket and his last word is not “Rosebud” as in the movie Citizen Kane but:
“Stormy.” And the ex 45th president of the United States expires. The camera fades to black then opens at Le Club in the early disco 1970s, a members-only Manhattan nightclub in the East 50s, where models, fashionistas and a variety of Eurotrash (including his wife) went to be seen.
“The government has just filed suit against our company,” said Trump, “saying we discriminated against Blacks. What do you think we should do?”
The Roy Cohn obedient ass-kisser to Senator Joe McCarthy hearings accusing entertainment personalities of being communists shoots back, “Tell them to go to hell and fight the thing in court and let them prove you discriminated against them.”
Roy Cohn has become Trump’s go-to lawyer and fixer.
Cohn admonishes the young Trump to 1. Never settle. Never surrender. 2. Counter-attack, counter-sue immediately. 3. No matter what happens, no matter how deep into the shit you get, claim victory and never admit defeat.
These lessons were found to be the essential attributes of his future self.
And so it was.
Harris/Walz 2024
I went to sleep last night and slept til the AM for the first night in a long time. You exceeded my wildest expectation Madame Vice President.
I was too happily excited to find the zzz's on the comfy pillow and with my companion kitty last nite.
Frank, I slept soundly with my Havanese puppy, Ginger Clarita, snuggled up to my side. I knew she was safe from being captured and eaten. :)
Have you ever heard such nonsense?? If only his followers would realize hiw nonsensical he is.
Pam, it seems to me that Trump's cult wants him to be as ridiculous, nasty, incoherent, and hateful as possible because they think he has some kind of secret knowledge he is bringing to them through his terrible behavior. The only thing he has for them is a place to hide their racism, misogyny, xenophobia, homo/transphobia, ageism, and more. They are so glad to have someone who can mirror their fear, anger, resentment, and actual hatred, while they still believe they can claim to be christian. It is pretty pathetic, but really dangerous for the rest of us.
Sadly that is not how tribal works. A FB friend figured Trump trounced Kamala at the debate. Bit of a fanatic, even a lot of Republicans thought Trump had blown it. The "tired old playbook" is the only thing he has.
I know what you mean--I mirrored Harris's smile during the debate and it's still pasted on. trump's melt down could not have been lost on millions of people who only watch FOX...
Frank, Oh No! are you a "childless cat person? Your cat must be so happy!
Actually I have two. I'd say generally they're pretty happy. One last night cuddled up with me in bed, now the other on my lap at the sofa as i munch breakfast and type this note. I do have two adult kids. I'm closing in on 80 myself!
Me too, Mary! I always wake up when the morning light comes peaking in but this morning, it was my 5 year old grandson who woke me up to full on daylight. What a great night's sleep!
In Springfield they’re eating dogs
Now they’re eating cats
What can a childless Catman do
With those awful facts
(My stage name happens to be “Catman Bill”)
They'll all be ground to sausages according to the "GOP" machine.
Same here, Mary. I'm feeling hopeful for the future.
Harris was amazing. Frump was predictable. There should be no question who the next President should be! Now, you foreign nations, “you get gone!”
I was surprised that he used some of his most outrageous lies. I thought he might have been urged to stick to some of the harder to so easily track ones. The debunked claims about Haitians was a real -Ignorance-is-Strengther. His Hitlerian hate-speech against immigrants was was louder and plainer than ever.
J L, the problem for Trump, he can no longer distinguish among the many lies as to which will go over best. That is why he runs a whole string of them together, hoping it will make him sound smart and aware when it really makes him seem like a man living with dementia, which is what he actually is.
Exactly, Ruth! He can no longer control his thoughts or emotions and it will continue to get worse. Imagine him sitting with world leaders, unable to comprehend the discussion but still wanting attention by repeating the only things he still can recall: nasty women, crowd sizes, criminal aliens pouring across the border and immigrants eating dogs….
"Citizen Drumpf"
The beginning of a movie script outline.
I can envision several Broadway musicals, depending on whose point of view the production centers around, and also depending on who you cast for which roles!
Imagine if Pinter or James Goldman wrote the script versus Neil Simon -
Michael, the challenge, who would watch it? The music would have to be amazing because the topic would not possibly be.
You’d be surprised. There was a dastardly double-murder in Minnesota in 1977. It occurred in a mansion and was allegedly perpetrated by the adopted daughter (and her husband) of the rich woman and her night nurse. Nasty, right? It was turned into a hilarious musical at the History Theater that has been running every year - and half the audience has attended multiple times (I’ve seen it four times). I could easily picture the Trump sequel. Think of all the hilarious quotes and criminality. I would go, for sure.
People came to see Evita.
Bill, this statement says it all “Cohn admonishes the young Trump to 1. Never settle. Never surrender. 2. Counter-attack, counter-sue immediately. 3. No matter what happens, no matter how deep into the shit you get, claim victory and never admit defeat.” The most powerful of all, “never admit defeat”. And his followers have embraced this philosophy and why those who say I am undecided is because they simply cannot admit error in judgement. It is so difficult for people to admit they may be wrong or made a bad choice. Is it because we persecute people for changing their mind and call out every action as flip flopping? Is it because it is perceived as being weak? I am thankful for my parents letting me know, no one is perfect, we make mistakes, the important thing is to recognize it, learn from it and don’t repeat it. And especially, it may mean you “settle” and you acknowledge the mistake.
So at this moment the only path forward to see a build a future is to stay focused and VOTE BLUE UP AND DOWN THE TICKET. after a strong victory at all levels we can begin the process of healing and rebuilding.
Perhaps best assigned to a comic strip version?
Graphic novel maybe, but Trump doesn't read books.
He'd wait for the animation.
Rosebud.
Stormy
There is a good chance that when citizen Trump wakes up if he loses the election, he will discover that he has no hair at all. They will shave it all off in jail.
Fun to write. Painful to have to live through. And so very tired of it. Could be a brilliant movie but I must confess I liked the last line of your script best.
Trump also reminds me of the film “Face in the Crowd”!
Yup.
Great summary, Charles, if that CNN mini poll holds up, it's Harris by what today's standards in polarized, selectively jerry mandered USA, we'd call a landslide. 5% switch is about what "first past the polls" democracy needs to get clear majorities.
Charles, ‘played Trump like a Stradivarius’. Sir, you nailed that debate it in those well chosen simile of four words for me. Brava and thank you.
Charles, a lot of Facebook friends reported that they were laughing and memes were appearing before the debate was even done. We laughed and yes, shouted some iteration of lie and lying at the TV. As someone noted, the only time death star did not lie is when he announced he was very different kind of person. I was interested in the side shots of him that seemed to show him as some kind of person who just walked out of a cave. In contrast, Harris was articulate and spoke directly to the audience about what her vision is. Loved that Taylor Swift capped off the evening.
Please Charles, don't associate Trump in anyway with a Stradivarius. It's an insult to the instrument and fine music. For one Donald Trump who is so out of tune, the Stradivarius should not suffer such an inharmonious screech from a tone-deaf malcontent.
My epicaricacy was unbridled.
Charles, I also chortled gleefully during most of the debate. If it’s unkind to point to Trump’s cognitive decline, his apparent slide into dementia, then color me unkind. It’s beyond imagination that the American voters would select him to lead the most powerful nation on earth, but it could happen. I was very grateful that Trump is not the sitting president, with the nuclear football within arm’s reach. He would have nuked Kamala during the debate…. If he could remember the launch codes, which is dubious.
You'd think it was clear that Trump has no business being charge of the nuclear codes but .... I watched the BBC Livestream; after the debate a Trump flak saw a completely different performance than most of the world did. If the race continues to be tight it will be because so many Donny Diehards are as delusional as he is.
I was still a child when it occurred to me that the world seemed to be divided by those who wanted to exert influence over others by reciprocity and persuasion and those who wanted to assert their influence though some form of violence. Over the years I have nuanced that view, but not changed it.
Yes. The first approach is usually used by an educated, enlightened, self-reflective person with empathy and understanding, while the second approach is usually the tactic of someone with no insight and who feels deeply insecure and inadequate.
Aka a bully.
In a word, yes. Bullying can start small yet become genocidal.
You aren’t wrong.
Towers of power, eh JL?
I think that politics on any level, even i a family, is about the process we use to decide whose will prevails. That can be cooperative and mutually generous or it can be coercive and dictatorial, and complicated in between. Some look to the greatest good for the greatest number (while defending universal individual human rights), and some are drawn to "might make right", gang up on and subjugate others. "Good and evil" can get hard to fully pin down at times, but I think the contrast between care and conquest is stark. Throughout history, we humans have been our own worst enemies, and that could kill us all.
Just say "NO" to the "Tower of Glower" (and prosecute his ass).
(The Tower of Moron)
lol, ok
I think of it as choosing one of three options where mutual respect is the ideal option, unilateral respect is the less-than-ideal option, and mutual distain is the worst option. Respect has a small short-term cost and an enormous long-term benefit, distain has a small short-term benefit and an enormous long-term cost, and violence is one of distain’s enormous long-term costs. Kamala Harris understands. Respect is bred in her bones.
Not certain what that says about your childhood but for sure you were wise beyond your years.
Harris delivered the performance we all hoped she would, but I'm sure the right wing media will explain to us how he won the debate.
This isn't necessarily a bad thing. If the polling shows Harris with a comfortable lead, will complacency set in and people feel they don't need to vote?
There is still much work to do and as hard as most of you are working to help Harris and Walz we can't let up until the last vote is cast.
Absolutely!
And even if we think we've got a slam dunk, remember Hilary, and even MORE important, we need every single voter, EVERY ONE, to create an undeniable MANDATE. We need to not only win, we need to shove an enormous lump of democracy down the MAGA gullet to make it perfectly clear: WE ARE NOT GOING BACK.
Yes, since the Republican machinery has been working hard on voter suppression tactics for years, so a win for us has to be by the widest of margins.
All hands on deck.........Kamala has done her work..........Now it is up to us to do our work........2 months to save democracy.
Miselle, Trump continues to set the stage for claiming the election was "stolen" when he loses. I'm very concerned that something even worse than January 6th might be in the works.
Catherine, for sometime now I have had that same thought and then I think I must be having conspiracy theories thoughts but… when I see the lies and egregious acts by the Republicans and the Supreme Court as well as the lower courts with tffg’s appointees it is almost like they know how it ends.
Barbara White-Thompson, I live in Northeast Tennessee. Most people around here are Trump fanatics. And they all have lots of guns. I have to be careful what I say around here. I've made some friends, but whenever politics come up, I get quiet. I wish I could afford to move somewhere else!
👍👍👍
Still need new Democrats.
https://www.fieldteam6.org/all-volunteer-ops/volunteer
Daniel, if I may steal a book title, then edit it: Too much better be enough.
This➡️” There is still much work to do and as hard as most of you are working to help Harris and Walz we can't let up until the last vote is cast.”
Liza Donnelly, cartoonist for the New Yorker, drew and quoted on the highlights of VP Kamala’s performance.
https://lizadonnelly.substack.com/p/harris-gets-to-trump-and-wins-debate
If all the right wing media is cable entertainment, maybe we need a better term to describe it? Like “Right Wing political entertainment”.
Our words and language could inform audiences better, with a more truthful reality based description. Yes?
I hear , Gary, on more than one score the electorate is more stimulated and attentive than usual, in some ways, all time highs. tba. I dont think you need worry much about "complacency" being an issue.
It’s the same old Wizard of Oz spin. I watched Rubio try to dress this pig-of-a-performance up. (and wow! My apologies upfront here to pigs) Looney Tunes!
At least they won't expand.... it's all up to turnout now, something which can throw polls quite off if they get that wrong given how many Americans typically do not vote, and especially how the so called independents, usually ex GOP/Dems, vote.
Historically, many Americans "typically" did not vote.
This election will be historic but atypical.
Polls already indicate above average voter interest and voting intentions. 2024 may well be a revisiting of the enthusiasm Dems won under Obama in 2008, and a landslide trifecta.
I sure hope so, Frank.
I miss Oprah's backing for Obama...
MisTBlu, after the debate Trump went to the “spin room” himself rather than depend on a surrogate to defend his performance. All of the pundits I heard were sure that this was an action born of desperation: “Only I can fix this”.
https://www.rollingstone.com/politics/politics-features/trump-harris-debate-spin-room-disaster-2024-1235099638/
OMG. That is desperation writ large.
According to this essay that Robert Ritchie posted to Joyce Vance's Substack on 9.9.2024, Trump would have met their expectations, which are low. they want him to "sic it to the other guy." What they consider that to be he was doing. So, I think he please his constituency, and she pleased hers, but will it be enough to get new ones signed up, and out to vote, and the swing voters did not get clear enough information to make a choice, because Trump does not tell them what he is going to do, just what he is not going to do. Here is the essay about the Donnie Diehards.
The Cult of Opposition: Understanding the Psychology Behind Trump’s Supporters
In modern political discourse, the relationship between leaders and their supporters often reflects a symbiotic exchange—one of mutual benefit. Typically, a leader provides tangible improvements to the supporters’ lives, who in turn offer their allegiance. However, Donald Trump's presidency introduced a paradigm shift that baffled many analysts. A significant portion of Trump’s base does not measure his success by what he does *for* them, but rather by what he does against those they consider adversaries. This phenomenon raises a critical question: why do Trump's supporters define his success not by policy achievements or personal benefit but by his ability to antagonize perceived enemies? In this research paper, we explore the psychology, sociocultural factors, and communication strategies behind this phenomenon, offering a deep dive into the mechanisms that sustain this unwavering loyalty.
The Psychology of "Othering"
At the heart of this dynamic lies a fundamental psychological concept known as *othering.* Othering refers to the process of creating a division between "us" and "them," where "them" are people deemed different or antagonistic to one's own group. Social identity theory posits that individuals derive part of their self-worth from their membership in groups (Tajfel & Turner, 1979). When Trump attacks certain groups—be they immigrants, Democrats, or marginalized communities—his supporters feel that their in-group (conservative, predominantly white Americans) is being validated. The "other," typically those outside their cultural or political bubble, becomes a target of scorn and aggression. By constantly positioning himself against these groups, Trump reassures his supporters that they are on the winning side of a cultural war.
This is where the success metrics diverge from typical political calculations. Success, in the eyes of Trump's supporters, is not rooted in economic growth or policy achievements, but in the symbolic victories won over those they disdain. Trump’s antagonistic rhetoric serves as a rallying cry for a base that measures success by how effectively he torments the "other."
Fear as a Unifying Emotion
The divisiveness Trump exploits is not built solely on disdain for others but on deep-rooted fear. Research has shown that political conservatism often correlates with heightened fear responses (Hibbing, Smith, & Alford, 2014). These fears manifest in concerns over demographic changes, perceived threats to cultural identity, and economic anxiety—particularly in the wake of globalization and immigration. For Trump’s base, he offers not only validation of their fears but also an outlet for their anxiety: the vilification of outsiders.
By acting against these outsiders—whether through harsh immigration policies, vilification of the media, or incendiary tweets targeting "leftist elites"—Trump provides a sense of catharsis to his supporters. It’s not about building bridges or creating new opportunities; it’s about protecting their identity and keeping perceived threats at bay. In their minds, Trump’s success is defined by his defense of the status quo against forces of change.
The Appeal of a Strongman
This dynamic is exacerbated by the allure of authoritarian leadership, often characterized by a leader who promises protection and order while silencing dissent. Trump's rhetoric—filled with hyperbole, aggressive language, and dismissive attitudes toward political correctness—resonates deeply with those who feel disempowered by societal changes. Studies have shown that authoritarian personalities are drawn to leaders who project strength and offer simple, binary solutions to complex problems (Feldman, 2003). Trump’s combative style against the "other" fits neatly into this framework.
In this context, Trump is seen as the protector, someone who will go to any length to defend his supporters from external threats. His aggressive behavior—though often condemned by critics—is perceived by his base as a strength. In their eyes, his relentless attacks on groups like the media, the "deep state," or racial minorities are evidence of his success as a leader willing to do whatever it takes to secure their safety and identity.
The Role of Media and Propaganda
An essential factor in maintaining this dynamic is the role of right-wing media in amplifying Trump’s actions *against* others while downplaying or ignoring any lack of substantive achievements. Fox News, Breitbart, and other conservative outlets often frame Trump’s attacks on immigrants, liberals, and the media as necessary battles in a larger cultural war. Through selective reporting, these outlets reinforce the idea that Trump’s presidency is less about improving the lives of his supporters through policy and more about the symbolic victories he achieves through opposition to their perceived enemies.
Trump himself understood the power of media manipulation, often stoking controversy to keep his name in the headlines. As noted by philosopher Hannah Arendt, in authoritarian regimes, propaganda serves to simplify the world into friend versus foe (Arendt, 1951). By keeping the public focused on his skirmishes against the "other," Trump ensured that his base remained engaged and energized, even when his policies provided little material benefit to their lives.
The Social Contract of Aggrievement
This relationship between Trump and his supporters can be understood as a kind of *social contract of aggrievement.* While traditional politicians offer economic benefits, infrastructure improvements, or social programs, Trump offers emotional validation. His base, particularly those who feel marginalized by economic shifts or demographic changes, finds solace in his outward displays of aggression. His ability to provoke outrage in the "other" reassures them that they are still relevant in a world they fear is changing too fast.
Interestingly, this contract does not require Trump to follow through on traditional metrics of success like job creation or healthcare reform. His supporters are not primarily concerned with how he improves their lives directly. Instead, they focus on how he reinforces their worldview—one where they are under constant attack and where Trump is their defender. This emotional satisfaction creates a loyalty that transcends policy, rooted instead in the shared sense of grievance and resentment.
Conclusion: A Loyalty That Transcends
In understanding Trump’s success, it is critical to recognize the unique metrics by which his supporters measure his achievements. His base does not primarily seek economic relief or policy victories; they seek validation of their fears and grievances. By acting *against* the "other," Trump provides emotional and psychological sustenance that traditional political figures often fail to deliver. His success, therefore, lies in his ability to symbolize and enact opposition rather than constructively improve the lives of his supporters. As long as Trump continues to antagonize those perceived as threats, his base will remain loyal, even in the absence of tangible benefits.
In the end, the tormenting of the "others" does more than sustain them—it defines them.
May the best team win. Viva la Kamala! Viva la Coach!
Exactly!! The Groper-in-Chief has become the face and voice of the Make America White Again tribe. "It isn't fair" is the tie that binds.
Linda, this is an outstanding essay, and articulates what I have observed yet did not want to believe in my former work cohort. It isn't about the issues, it is about asserting their white, male, Christian, heteronormative, cisgendered supremacy over those of us who are missing one or more of those 5 listed categories.
The fact that men under 30 are leaning into conservatism, which is another name for extremism, is deeply concerning. We need to be shutting down, X, Telegraph, Truth Social, 4Chan, and all of these other hate filled sites. I think that social media should not be allowed to be anti-social media. There is nothing in the constitution that says we have to allow free speech on these venues. We also need serious gun laws. I hope that Tim Walz can be considered a new sort of male role model, but apparently what I consider Normal, like Tim, is considered radical to many.
I have been sharing an essay by Robert Ritchie from Joyce Vance's Substack on September 9, 2024, about what Trump voters want from him. I think he delivered that. That is, they want to think he stands up for them and they don't care about policy or if he delivers what he says, because they think he takes on the establishment. I think Harris delivered for her voters as well and maybe some other people. However, I wonder about Swing voters, because I don't think that they would be clear from the debates. Trump did not say any plans for policy, and so, if one wanted to get that, I don't believe it helps people who never thought about Harris to choose her if they cannot find out these policy things themselves. This is why I am not for debates. It seems to me that what matter is getting the vote out. I have been hearing that Straight Men under 30, who are in a crisis are not feeling included in the Democratic Party, but Trump is speaking directly to them on the social media platforms they frequent. I also heard a farmer interviewed on a German documentary looking at Trumpland. This Georgia farmer said he wants to hear what they will do for farmers. I have not seen if this is defined but we will be reading The Department of Agriculture section of Project 2025 in my Democrats Abroad Book club for next week's discussion. Here is the paper, sorry it was unattributed.
The Cult of Opposition: Understanding the Psychology Behind Trump’s Supporters
In modern political discourse, the relationship between leaders and their supporters often reflects a symbiotic exchange—one of mutual benefit. Typically, a leader provides tangible improvements to the supporters’ lives, who in turn offer their allegiance. However, Donald Trump's presidency introduced a paradigm shift that baffled many analysts. A significant portion of Trump’s base does not measure his success by what he does *for* them, but rather by what he does against those they consider adversaries. This phenomenon raises a critical question: why do Trump's supporters define his success not by policy achievements or personal benefit but by his ability to antagonize perceived enemies? In this research paper, we explore the psychology, sociocultural factors, and communication strategies behind this phenomenon, offering a deep dive into the mechanisms that sustain this unwavering loyalty.
The Psychology of "Othering"
At the heart of this dynamic lies a fundamental psychological concept known as *othering.* Othering refers to the process of creating a division between "us" and "them," where "them" are people deemed different or antagonistic to one's own group. Social identity theory posits that individuals derive part of their self-worth from their membership in groups (Tajfel & Turner, 1979). When Trump attacks certain groups—be they immigrants, Democrats, or marginalized communities—his supporters feel that their in-group (conservative, predominantly white Americans) is being validated. The "other," typically those outside their cultural or political bubble, becomes a target of scorn and aggression. By constantly positioning himself against these groups, Trump reassures his supporters that they are on the winning side of a cultural war.
This is where the success metrics diverge from typical political calculations. Success, in the eyes of Trump's supporters, is not rooted in economic growth or policy achievements, but in the symbolic victories won over those they disdain. Trump’s antagonistic rhetoric serves as a rallying cry for a base that measures success by how effectively he torments the "other."
Fear as a Unifying Emotion
The divisiveness Trump exploits is not built solely on disdain for others but on deep-rooted fear. Research has shown that political conservatism often correlates with heightened fear responses (Hibbing, Smith, & Alford, 2014). These fears manifest in concerns over demographic changes, perceived threats to cultural identity, and economic anxiety—particularly in the wake of globalization and immigration. For Trump’s base, he offers not only validation of their fears but also an outlet for their anxiety: the vilification of outsiders.
By acting against these outsiders—whether through harsh immigration policies, vilification of the media, or incendiary tweets targeting "leftist elites"—Trump provides a sense of catharsis to his supporters. It’s not about building bridges or creating new opportunities; it’s about protecting their identity and keeping perceived threats at bay. In their minds, Trump’s success is defined by his defense of the status quo against forces of change.
The Appeal of a Strongman
This dynamic is exacerbated by the allure of authoritarian leadership, often characterized by a leader who promises protection and order while silencing dissent. Trump's rhetoric—filled with hyperbole, aggressive language, and dismissive attitudes toward political correctness—resonates deeply with those who feel disempowered by societal changes. Studies have shown that authoritarian personalities are drawn to leaders who project strength and offer simple, binary solutions to complex problems (Feldman, 2003). Trump’s combative style against the "other" fits neatly into this framework.
In this context, Trump is seen as the protector, someone who will go to any length to defend his supporters from external threats. His aggressive behavior—though often condemned by critics—is perceived by his base as a strength. In their eyes, his relentless attacks on groups like the media, the "deep state," or racial minorities are evidence of his success as a leader willing to do whatever it takes to secure their safety and identity.
The Role of Media and Propaganda
An essential factor in maintaining this dynamic is the role of right-wing media in amplifying Trump’s actions *against* others while downplaying or ignoring any lack of substantive achievements. Fox News, Breitbart, and other conservative outlets often frame Trump’s attacks on immigrants, liberals, and the media as necessary battles in a larger cultural war. Through selective reporting, these outlets reinforce the idea that Trump’s presidency is less about improving the lives of his supporters through policy and more about the symbolic victories he achieves through opposition to their perceived enemies.
Trump himself understood the power of media manipulation, often stoking controversy to keep his name in the headlines. As noted by philosopher Hannah Arendt, in authoritarian regimes, propaganda serves to simplify the world into friend versus foe (Arendt, 1951). By keeping the public focused on his skirmishes against the "other," Trump ensured that his base remained engaged and energized, even when his policies provided little material benefit to their lives.
The Social Contract of Aggrievement
This relationship between Trump and his supporters can be understood as a kind of *social contract of aggrievement.* While traditional politicians offer economic benefits, infrastructure improvements, or social programs, Trump offers emotional validation. His base, particularly those who feel marginalized by economic shifts or demographic changes, finds solace in his outward displays of aggression. His ability to provoke outrage in the "other" reassures them that they are still relevant in a world they fear is changing too fast.
Interestingly, this contract does not require Trump to follow through on traditional metrics of success like job creation or healthcare reform. His supporters are not primarily concerned with how he improves their lives directly. Instead, they focus on how he reinforces their worldview—one where they are under constant attack and where Trump is their defender. This emotional satisfaction creates a loyalty that transcends policy, rooted instead in the shared sense of grievance and resentment.
Conclusion: A Loyalty That Transcends
In understanding Trump’s success, it is critical to recognize the unique metrics by which his supporters measure his achievements. His base does not primarily seek economic relief or policy victories; they seek validation of their fears and grievances. By acting *against* the "other," Trump provides emotional and psychological sustenance that traditional political figures often fail to deliver. His success, therefore, lies in his ability to symbolize and enact opposition rather than constructively improve the lives of his supporters. As long as Trump continues to antagonize those perceived as threats, his base will remain loyal, even in the absence of tangible benefits.
In the end, the tormenting of the "others" does more than sustain them—it defines them.
Viva la Kamala!
Thank you Linda. I did a Google search and found the essay by Robert Ritchie in a reader comment to a Joyce Vance Substack.
https://joycevance.substack.com/p/the-week-ahead-7dd/comment/68304169
I remembered reading it then. It was good to read it again. Thanks for repeating it.
Thank you HulitC. I was going to start going through all my Substacks once I did not find it there. I appreciate your doing this. I see we have some of the same good company in our Substack choices.
Hulu tv: great Googling! Thanks for the link.
I knew I had read it before also, but couldn't remember where. Thanks for finding it, HulitC. It's an essay worth rereading.
Thanks for posting source. Useful anakysid.
Linda, perhaps I am wrong but while this lengthy post offers us insights into a different metric for Trump loyalist it feels like it leaves one key element out.
Kamala Harris showed people that there is another way. She stated several times that it is time to move forward, not backward. She acknowledged that many, maybe even some of his followers, are eager to move forward. She invited voters to join this call to move beyond vitriol and hate.
I am eager to see this Harris invite resonate with even a few of our fellow citizens. We know that our fellow Americans are better than what we have seen since a showman stepped off the escalator.
Thank you, Madam President. She showed our best last night.
John, I feel like the movement does not happen with the deep MAGAs, but with the Republicans who are not MAGA and are seeing each moment when Harris is speaking as a job interview. One was her speech at the Democratic National Convention, and another was in her interview during prime time on CNN with Walz, and then last night was another job interview. She is perhaps getting visibility in the internet with influencers. There are a lot of ads for her out by her team, Lincoln Project and Now This Impact. In between these interviews I am learning about Project 2025, and glad that she has posted positions on her website, to make comparisons in policy. I am living in Germany where only 10% of the eligible American voters who live here are voting. That is very untapped. One problem with recruiting people, is that we have to find Americans in our cities, because German privacy laws means we cannot get access to any lists of people. So, we create events, and go to events where we think we will find them, and we give information on how to do this.Many people think, I live abroad, how can what happens in the US affect me, so I need to have a stump speech to convince them.
Keep up the good work, Linda.
I think the article explained reasons for true MAGAS being unmovable. They aren’t interested in policies or ideas to move forward. We all know people who just won’t budge and believe all the lies. Because it feeds them. Hopefully independents and undecideds are the ones she will reach.
Thank you Linda -a terrific summary as to the psychology of tyrants and wannabe tyrants like Trump.
Thank You Linda.. We All Must Evolve Towards Our Better Angels...
I thought that was a Robert Hubbell piece unless he was quoting it. Anyway, we fully understand why Trump has mastered the art of demagoguery. Now it’s all in to get everyone to the polls. I’m waiting for responses to queries on working in eastern PA on Election Day. Connecticut doesn’t need me. Anyone who can link with activists in battleground states please do. Flood the states with volunteers.
if anyone would like to come help in Wisconsin, please check out WisDems.org. We need help and you can do a lot of it virtually right now. Also still seeking poll observers for day of, please! I can get you signed up.
…viva la Kamala - oh yes. But I’m all for debates! When in doubt … this one saw trump dunked. Thanks for your deep and wide postings Linda
I love your last sentence, great laugh
DJT was relatively Restrained for DJT... Kamala did Magnificently as many have Hoped... She Stood Tall & Strong... Kamala did not need a Step to stand on to Tower Over DJT... DJT became Seething... Reminds me of his Reactions at the 2011 Washington Correspondents Dinner that motivated DJT to run for President when Obama Roasted DJT... This Fury will motivate DJT to Steal This Election Any-Which-Way-That-He-Can... Coach Walz was also Excellent Afterwards... GO COACH!!!... Can't Wait For The VP Debate... Let's See If The Dark Siths Stick With DJT... Thank You Kamala!!!
Thank you and agree. I do believe that DJT is already highly-motivated to occupy the White House by whatever means necessary in order to pardon the multitude of crimes he has committed and to enrich himself through corruption. He has no motivation to govern -and that should be painstakingly obvious to anyone paying attention to any of his actions and word salad speeches.
I watched it very very seriously...soon, I'm going to watch it again for laughs. A wealth of crazy stuff!
I could not believe he mentioned immigrants eating pets....wow! But, he missed out; he forgot to weave that in with his new hero: Animal Lecter.
The debate confirmed my suspicions that the man is seriously ill. He couldn't stay on topic, ranted and raved about "illegals" destroying our country, and made some statements that were, frankly, hilarious (e.g., something about performing transgender operations on illegal aliens in prison).
Yet the NBC News reporter on our local news program this morning didn't even mention his incoherent rambling and lies, lies, and more lies... as if this was the typical ho-hum presidential debate! Huh?!!
LOL Judith at your "Animal Lecter" comment. Very clever.
The ABC moderators and producers allowed this to almost be a debate and they fact checked him at times.
I will be totally shocked if he agrees to another debate, but the Harris campaign will goad him incessantly whether he agrees or not.
They could have, and should have, done much more fact checking... that is, if they could keep up.
Trump was more contained for a longer stretch than I have seen in the past. Something about his manner seemed flat to me, like he was tired or drugged, but that that may be just my projection.
I agree - I thought that in the final, say, half hour of the debate - I did not see it all - he was very 'calm' and contained - though he said nothing but lies and fantasies.
Too bad Harris did not have the time to shut him up on a couple, like the last-minute allegations of all the money Biden has supposedly got from various countries (and knowing why the wife of the mayor of Moscow would want to give him millions of dollars would challenge even a person - if there is one - who understands the connection between electric boats and sharks)
His closing line of 'well, if you've got all these great ideas, why haven't you done them in the past three and a half years?' Answer: A. we have done a lot of good, and B. because your flying monkeys in the House won't let us. the President is not a king (or queen) ruling by decree.
We can Hope that DJT is running out of 'Juice'... I wonder if 'Insanity' will be his Ultimate Defense...
Tragically, I fear it will move the needle little or not at all with the MAGATS. Cognitive dissonance on display. I can't get over the feeling that half the population (those old ladies at the Villages wearing their stars and stripes mini skirts) believe this is all a TV program starring Dump.
A refreshing look at the Villages is the enthusiastic Golf Cart Parades for Harris described at:
https://www.cfpublic.org/2024-07-28/villages-democrats-show-enthusiasm-for-harris-with-golf-cart-parade
Nice to read about another side to The Villages. It might point to the radical idea that many of us in retirement actually pay attention to various sources and make up our minds accordingly.
Agree Thomas. It’s very frustrating. They need cult deprogramming and reject facts and evidence. I think of them as “Factose” intolerant.
I lacked the mental strength to watch the debate; it was my birthday and I was yelling at the TV whenever he spoke. Instead, I watched Night Shift, with Henry Winkler and Michael Keaton. I awoke to the news of Harris' great performance and Taylor Swift's endorsement, and today I shall watch the debate! We try to tell ourselves that we can stay calm in the face of this existential threat to everything that makes America a beautiful place, but I remember the deep disappointment on election night of 2016, and one never knows when their last birthday is upon them. So, I thought I'll watch it tomorrow if I wake to find that things went well. So, I'll enjoy the debate today!!!!
And happy belated birthday Janet! 🎂🎉
Night Shift was an excellent choice! 🤓
Happy Birthday Janet! I could not watch either, on my Dvd, for today! Did watch "Bringing out the Dead" with Nick Cage! His breakdown in being an EMT reflects how I have been feeling re trump, debate etc. Glad to read debate went well and my Dr gave me better than expected news about my broken arm! So true about birthdays, for a moment I thought I had celebrated my last. May you have many more Janet in good health...
Thanks, Gloria!
Thank you! My first thought on waking this morning, after watching the entire debate and a snippet of analysis after, was that I just am gobsmacked that this is what we're engaged in to elect the next POTUS. And when he started down the road of "you've been in office, why haven't you done it already?" I wanted her to remind us about The Wall, but she was too busy reminding us about the "better health care plan" he had that never materialized. She really owned him.
Every day I think how could this be a close race -but then I’m (sadly) reminded that Noem, DeSantis, and Abbott are governors, and that Boebert, Taylor-Greene, Jordan, Comer, and Gaetz are in Congress.
I think America has been playing football without a helmet for too long.
Great performance by Vice President Harris. A pet beef: ABC failed to cut the microphone that would have forced the former President into off-line interruptions. The yelling would have also brought out in bold relief the bullying and coarse ways of the former President; it would also have made him even more unhinged. I wonder why the moderators lacked the gumption to do that.
It would have been good if they could have corralled the follow-up question responses. But to your point, next to a calm, well-informed, and prepared former prosecutor, I thought the convicted orange felon looked very, very unhinged.
Nice sum up, the finale is a topper..for you, George and our wonderful Heather👏🇺🇸💙
Thank you Patricia. Professor @Heather Cox Richardson never fails to inspire with well-researched LFAA’s.
The 8 years of Trump we see have been sterilized by Fox. Read Decoding Fox News every week to hear what Fox watchers hear every day.
Arm yourself with the understanding of why MAGA still believes what they believe.
Https://decodingfoxnews.substack.com?r=4j5a4
Thanks Shawn. And as media has consolidated and become beholden to profit it has become easy to distribute propaganda and disinformation as was discussed in “Manufacturing Consent” and Brave New Film’s expose about Murdoch and Fox “News”.
I’ll check it out. And read “Stop Reading the News” by Rolf Dobelli. It outlines how we are bombarded with entertainment, not info. There is no big picture. Just one indecipherable bomb after the next. The goal is to make noise, not provide content or context.
George, thank you for a pithy statement. I well remember the “replacement” that the Republicans came up with during Trump’s term—the first thing that it gutted was the assurance that insurance companies could not charge horrendous premiums for people with preexisting conditions (at least they would be able to get insurance).
https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2023/07/24/1189332308/house-republicans-choice-act-roll-back-obamacare-protections&sa=U&sqi=2&ved=2ahUKEwiTgsSc6rqIAxWQ4skDHV7kLFIQFnoECBYQAQ&usg=AOvVaw3L_qTZnYTNeVPjbc5Tzm2q
Thanks Mary. Other than Nixon creating the Environmental Protection Agency, I really cannot think of one policy they’ve offered for the good of society. It’s all about concentration of wealth while dividing us.
Well said!
Well said George. Agree, thank you Professor Richardson.
But, but, there's a concept!!
Fabulous post, George.
Thanks Ally. You know I try. 🤓
Hey, he has a plan. Or a concept of a plan. Or, as Peter Quill from "Guardians of the Galaxy" would tell you "I have PART of a plan....12%...."
You are right Eva! I think his “part of a plan” is a page he tore out of “Art of the Steal” or whatever his ghost written book is called.
OMG you guys, I just saw the coolest lady on TV tonight. She came face to face with the Devil and beat him back into the ground without even a single bead of sweat marring her perfect makeup.
Super impressive! Someone should make her President!
Hey, great idea!
She didn't sweat, but did he? I detected the light picking up something under his nose, and it looked like a trickle of sweat which he dare not swipe and muss his pancake makeup.
Yes! I saw that too. Hope to see it again on the news. He started Wicked Witch meltdown. I’m annoyed that the moderators could not control him and seemed slow on the microphone turnoff. And why call him president trmp.? And an abc post “debate” panelist said Kamala did not talk about her presidential priorities!!! Seriously??!! 🙀🤯😢
Gigi, Agree!! Next time, you might try MSNBC post debate panelists. It will be more enlightening and enjoyable. I too was most bothered by moderators calling him “Mr. President” and not shutting off his microphone as he ranted on and on. However, moderators did do a big better than I expected. Fortunately, Harris did not seem bothered enough by his lies and growing anger to let it impact her debate performance, which was exceptional. She put him in his place without losing her cool, ability to think, and her priorities.
It’s good that they let him ramble a bit. He does himself no favors. He goes into deep lies and absurdity. I felt the same at first- that Harris didn’t get time, but had hoped before that he could go off the rails, and he did.
That bothered me, too, about calling him "President" Tr... Were they even turning off the microphones? But my partner & I muted him every time he opened his mouth - why listen to what he says? Lies, all lies.
Did you catch David Muir's first question? "Vice President Harris, you and President Trump were elected four years ago...."
I thought he said that, and I forgot. Thanks for bringing that up. Michael Steele called tfg a “pissed bigot.” Bet he won’t do another debate. She judo-flipped him to the floor and put a spiked heel on his chest.
Yikes. I missed that.
I didn’t notice whether he was sweating, but he is obviously looking at a heart of darkness. Metaphorically, he is looking at a pond thinking he can see America below the surface and not liking what he sees, except that all he sees is his reflection.
One thing I noticed is that Trump never said Harris’ name during the debate. He kept saying “she”.
Also thought the handshake Harris did at the beginning was clever.
That handshake was a very nice power play. If she didn't think of it herself, whoever suggested it deserves a big bunch of flowers. His team must have been kicking themselves. It would have looked so gracious if HE had done it!
Mind you, they might have suggested it - and he couldn't bring himself to. . .
It was not simply that she shook his hand. That would be standard.
What made it a BOSS move was that she took the initiative and marched herself over to his spot and casually insisted on herself before he could do anything other than slouch. She declared herself the adult in command before a single word was uttered, and he never recovered.
Kamala overcame the dominant stage left in her first move. She took the ‘power position’ away from him by entering that space he tried to claim.
Then returned to her place with it.
Called choreography. And brilliant.
Summary of his handshakes:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Donald_Trump_and_handshakes
When he does handshakes it is usually interpreted as a show of a 'power' move. Madam President did the power move last night.
And se
It was a simple, effective way for Harris to show what an oaf he is (on top of everything else). Brilliant!
I am sure it was discussed at length with her team....my new Youtube buddy, John Flannery thought that she should not. However, since SHE initiated it , it was a great power play.
HE is simply not capable to "bring himself to ... perform. From a Biden candidacy to the Kim-Coach Team --- what a reversal of fortune.
“Gracious” is not how he, or his team, want him portrayed. One reason he’s always an outcast.
And he immediately waked away afterward. No handshake there either.
🤭
He didn't say her name because his brain still thinks his opponent is Biden. He didn't look at her once, not once, because he HATES that she's the Dem nominee instead of Joe.
One of her best lines after he finished a rant about Biden was, "Just so you know, you aren't running against Joe Biden... you're running against me."
That was powerful and humiliating to Trump.
He's scared of the lady, it seems to me.
“Who’s afraid of little old me? Well you should be!”
Taylor Swift
"Karma is a comforting thought. Aren't you envious that for you it's not?"
Few people who get to such a level of popularity are such naturally gifted, consistently clever lyricists.
"Let's go, Taylor!" (Clap, Clap, clap-clap-clap!)
Let's go Millions of Swifties.
Yes! And of going to jail.
AND, MisTBlu, he doesn’t shake hands with women (see meeting Angela Merkel while President). He’ll kiss them, hug them, put his hands on their shoulders (or elsewhere) but not shake their hands as one might acknowledge an equal (see above:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Donald_Trump_and_handshakes).
Good point, John. IMO, she freaking owned him with that gesture. I also heard that she introduced herself, providing him the accurate pronunciation of her first name.
I saw but did not catch that. Good job you.
The Merkel thing was such an embarrassment. It went beyond his inability to treat her as a peer and extend the graciousness due her, it was his body language: that thing he does with hanging his arms between his legs as he slumps away from the chair back all while not looking at who ever he's talking to.
He hates that she "is not his chosen one".
I thought about that when he exclaimed about his assault victims, "she would not have been the chosen one."
Pathetic.
Yet he referred to Joe Biden several times, only to be reminded he's not running against Joe.
I also loved her facial features, ranging from a jocular "Seriously?" to "What the actual (heck) are you talking about, old man?"
Yes, the split screen was perfect in showing both candidates.
He (and his ilk) just cannot get over the woman thing. He is absolutely sent into a tailspin by the idea he could be dominated not just by anyone, but by [gasp, shudder] a "she!" In his shallow, ugly, bigoted world, "she"s are naturally always subservient, losing to a "she" is unthinkable, and all "she"s who attempt to invert this order are horrible creatures and must be cut down to size.
He can't seem to do that with this particular "she!" She stands to have the power he craves instead of him, because people like her more.
Delicious!
It goes against the whole MAGA philosophy. White men should be in control not those 'women.'
Or, because people like her.
Yes, it was an unforced display of Trump manners.
If it was tRump manners, she would have SHOVED him and stood in front of him!!
;D
Yes - stood in front of him, then dusted her lapels and straightened her shoulders, chin in air.
I didn't watch the final moments - did she offer to shake his hand after the debate too?
Imagine his reaction if she did that!
No, they didn’t shake hands at the end of the debate. He turned to his right and walked off the stage.
Walked or slunked?
No, they both just walked off the stage in the direction they entered.
He stormed off quickly. In past debates, I believe there was handshaking afterward, even with moderators. But they turned off the lights.
Gigi, we got to turn off his light & the power to it.
He would probably have tried to break her arm. . .
Do you remember Hillary and Trump's town hall debate where Hillary was speaking and Trump was walking back and forth behind her like he was going to hurt her. That intimidating action showed exactly who he is.
This. It was either ‘she’ or ‘her’. It became even more glaringly obvious when he was able to address the moderators by name. Not only that he was unable to even look at her. Now who looked old tonight? Brava to the Harris team.
Taylor Swift for the win!
And happy anniversary, Heather and Buddy!
Happy anniversary! Well spotted, Lynell.
Morning, Lynell! Indeed, Swifties to the front!
Morning, Ally!
Well, I was hoping he would drop his drawers and sling the contents of the diaper. Or at least go on a rant like the childcare rant or the sharks and batteries. But I shall have to be satisfied with pet-eating, WW3, and abortions at 9 months...
And don't forget the governor of West Virginia or Virginia He couldn't seem to make up his mind which State he wished to insult) who put new born babies aside to decide whether to kill them or not - man that Governor whoever he is must be one busy dude to attend every birth in the State. Also it is impossible to abort a baby that is already born. What an imbecile.
Fay, perhaps this was calculated by Harris and her debate prep team, but I thought after he talked about these "executions" and "abortions after 9 months" that a clever response might have been "The only 'executions' to children are caused by males with military-grade weapons slaughtering them in classrooms. We must do better to protect our kids from gun violence."
I like the way you think, Doug. I'd prefer soldiers to males as some of those military people are female.
Fay, to be clear I was referring to school shootings. I'll clarify my post, thank you.
Thanks, Doug, for clarifying.
Doug, What just came to my mind when I read: "'executions' to children are caused by males with military-grade weapons slaughtering them in classrooms" was Gaza, which is a hot potato no one dare mention.
Harris did mention the thousands of Palestinians being killed in Gaza and said the shooting must stop ASAP and she and Biden will keep working continuously for that - and that there must be a two-state solution ...
"A hot potato" and a sobering thought that's not a win/lose debate game of quick assertions. Israel/Gaza/West Bank, with all its history and current regional complexities, requires deep dialogue with no easy answers, what's the venue for that? I won't answer that but I'll go back to a book I love to get myself on track; it's "The Ending of Time", by a spiritual leader and a physicist. Krishnamurti and David Bohm.
Described in a Goodreads summary:
"This very important work offers penetrating dialogues between the great spiritual leader and the renowned physicist that shed light on the fundamental nature of existence. Krishnamurti and David Bohm probe such questions as ‘why has humanity made thought so important in every aspect of life? How does one cleanse the mind of the ‘accumulation of time’ and break the ‘pattern of ego -centered activity’? The Ending of Time concludes by referring to the wrong turn humanity has taken, but does not see this as something from which there is no escape. There is an insistence that mankind can change fundamentally; but this requires going from one’s narrow and particular interests toward the general, and ultimately moving still deeper into that purity of compassion, love and intelligence that originates beyond thought, time, or even emptiness."
Thanks for sharing that perspective, Judith.
"Also it is impossible to abort a baby that is already born. What an imbecile."
It is absolutely an idiotic notion. However, consider that the Repub platform this year actually nods to the notion of "fetal personhood." This is an ultimate goal of the evangelical nationalists that by now are their most irreplaceable base of support. These folks truly believe that "life begins at conception," and they believe that fervently and literally. Now consider that to someone for whom that belief is sincerely held, they see no difference between an embryo and a small child. To them, if you are willing to have an abortion for any reason, that action is morally indistinguishable from drowning your child because you decided you didn't want it anymore. Someone willing to advocate for something so self-evidently evil should never be trusted or allowed to have any of their other ideas infiltrate society, correct?
The logic actually follows, but the key belief it rests upon (a baby from moment of conception) is patently, destructively ludicrous. This is both why the propaganda sticks, and why religious fanaticism is so dangerous.
Will, I got into it with a former sergeant of mine, whose wife is a former DA in our county. He made that "post birth abortion" argument to me. I asked him what the homicide definition was in Oregon. He quite correctly defined human being under our statute. ORS 163.005 (3): "“Human being” means a person who has been born and was alive at the time of the criminal act." I then said that this "post birth" seems to fall under the definition of human being, to which he agreed. I then told him that it isn't an "abortion" at that point but a homicide. His learned, experienced educated response: "Not if they call it an abortion." Complete and utter GARBAGE.
Abortions at 9 months and executions thereafter.
Some buy the spiel, and they vote. Hopefully, many more wake up and smell the bullschittery
JD, the classic sales slogan is to "Sell the sizzle, not the steak." Well, we know what sizzled last night: an orange azz, fried by a Lady on Fire. 🔥🔥🔥.
Dems should remember that when sending me a mountain of boring, ridiculous emails. I got one from repubs by obvious mistake, but it was indistinguishable from Dems except the names. They are not working with me and plenty of voters are sick of them. I will donate what I can but never respond to the idiotic emails. In fact I will unsubscribe. I need no crap to know who to vote for. I knew when I was a pup. Sad that so many are “undecided” when the choice is between good and evil.
I am also sick and tired of all the democrats texts and about to throw my cellphone away last night
Just delayed unsubscribing, but finally had to. I have about five places that I feel are good places to put my few bucks. Wish I had Soros’ resources but not close. Just do what I can.
MAny people are saying "they" are executing babies and eating them with pets. . .
BILLIONS OF IMMIGRANTS ARMED WITH NUCLEAR WEAPONS WANT TO EAT YOUR PETS AND CAUSE INFLATION AND WORLD WAR 3!!!
And not just any people are saying it. All the BEST people are saying so. And what makes them the best people? Why, that they are OUR people!
Put aside the shock value of such brainless narcissism and it is just so... lame.
Just a hair's breadth away from quoting The Elders of Zion sacrificing Christian babies.
Give them time, they'll get around to that again.
Abortions not only at 7, 8 or 9 months, but even after birth…
Fact Check: Only about 1% are for many different medical reasons are after 5 months. "After birth" zero.
Seriously, nobody understands that. Abortions for medical reasons were available before Roe v Wade.
I had a family member who did her Obstetrics & Gynecology Residency at "Keck School of Medicine os USC". Yes, that is the one that anyone can see from miles away up on the hill near downtown LA.
"You will find that our graduates are highly recruited for academic & community practice" cuz' the young Docs are ready for the real world serving real women & real families".
🙏 Sasha
just quoting the stable genius...
We need a poster of all the “late great sayings” or two….
Is Kamala Harris finally the dragon slayer we've been waiting so long for? Even Fox News and the WSJ admit Trump lost the debate. Gen Z men, an important demographic, also seemed quite impressed with her. Here's a really funny impression of Trump's performance by J.L. Cauvin. https://jimbuie.substack.com/p/kamala-harris-dragon-slayer
Jim, my first thought after watching the debate was that she not only slayed him: she skillfully *exsanguinated* him, on live tv. While he attempted to attend to his wounded tender ego by attacking her, his political life was bleeding out on the stage, plain as day to all viewers.
Talk about a bloodbath.
Jim, thank you for your comments and suggestion of the Trump impersonator. He is so good!!
"Gen Z men, an important demographic..."
Just to be clear, young men are an important *turnout* demo. They are not a persuasion/swing demographic (i.e. in terms of who they might support when the votes are in). This has been driving me absolutely bonkers recently. Young people are one of the key Dem pillars of support, so naturally media has got to stir the pot calling into question all the ways in which Dems might be "in trouble" with them. After the candidate becomes a woman, cue the articles playing up the gender gap, which inevitably provoke people's anecdotal sharing about an un-progressive young male friend of their nephew or whatever...
None of the actual data we currently have backs this up, and neither does common sense. Harris will almost certainly win young men by healthy double digits. The campaign's goal is not to win that demo, but to win that demo by 20%. The only reason there is a gender gap is because she is almost guaranteed to win young women by 30%. This is not a matter of young men being up for grabs. It is a matter of young men being solidly liberal versus young women being overwhelmingly, ridiculously liberal. This is like being worried someone might steal your hamburger because they are merely vegetarian rather than vegan.
Great analogy, Will.
Great points, Will!
That was very funny!! Thank you Jim!! ❤️
I watched the J.L. Cauvin impression. Thank you!
Jim, thank you, thank you!
That J.L has trump nailed - laugh out loud!
Rather than the dragonslayer, I view VP Harris as the DRAGON! 🐉 I recommend you read the book When Women Were Dragons by Kelly Barnhill. Superb feminist literature.
Great video! A 2:33 minute single sentence with about 43 "ands" captured Trump's mannerisms and idiosyncrasies Bigly!
Bwwwahahaha! Thanks for sharing that. 😂
GOOD ONE!
Too flipping funny, Jim. Thanks for the laugh this morning!
Lol, great impression! There was too much to capture, but threatening WW III was a damning highlight, too.. Hard to know to laugh or cry. It's good to read the young bucks may be impressed with examples of good leadership. I know around here they can be pretty self-important, lol. I'm all for that if it supports our democracy, the importance of every demographic.
thanks for the laugh!
I had a good time watching a bad man being destroyed by a good woman. Meow! I am a childless dog man myself. Woof!
And my experience is that cats and dogs can coexist together in harmony, Jack!
What about the goldfish?
Good question, Jack. I don't believe they belong in those little bowls.
Love you, childless dog Man ♡
I am flattered. I think Trump decided to play to his base and ignore the advice from his advisors. That is all he knows anyway.
Woof, woof too.
Brilliant strategy by Kamala and her team. Just piss him off before the duel, just like Miyamoto Musashi did. I did hope he would become so angry, he’d just self-destruct and explode right in front of the camera. Oh well, it’s nice that he lost this time - and it was a woman that beat him. Schadenfreude pur. I like that punch in the face that Taylor Swift gave him and Vance, too. All in all a good day :)
I loved hearing about the pre-debate needling blitz…finally the Dem’s have found some mojo! (And what a comparison to Hilary walking out to Rise Up…I like the song but, really, what an undertone of struggle rather than liberation.)
That was a great victory for Kamala last night and for me personally i read an article that the lying Nate Sliver pollster was predicting that TUMP has a 64% chance of winning and i learned Sliver was being funded by TUMP loving billionaire, Peter Thiel. For the past 4 years i had suspected Sliver was a GQP hack and from what i read in that article finally proved i was right about my suspicions about Nate Sliver. ( His last name is correctly spelled ''Silver'' but Sliver better suits my opinion of the creep) I feel more optimistic about the election after Kamala's performance than i have i quite a while! The Taylor Swift endorsement was very encouraging also.
Wow. Could you share that source?
Yes, i sure will, it was on the www. rawstory.com website. You could likely find it on it's sister site, www. alternet.com. September 10, 2024 edition. I personally do not know why anyone trusts that Nate Sliver 538 polling site. Nate Sliver is a phony and a GQP supported site to spew lies and disinformation about elections. They never mention it when he has been horribly wrong when he predicted Biden would lose the 2020 presidential election.
Thank you! Eff him!
My opinion of him exactly. I am so sick and tired of TUMP and these demented fools that actually believe all the lies that freak of nature despot. TUMP needs to be thrown into a pit full of rattlesnakes.
Win or lose, before the sword is drawn. Nice analogy. 👍
Harris played Trump like a fiddle and looked presidential doing it. It is beyond me how anyone can look at or listen to that buffoon and think he should be President.
To quote Simon Rosenberg, " The Vice President Kicked All Sorts Of Ass Tonight!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"
Today is a good day! So proud of VP Harris.
A very good evening for "childless cat ladies."
Best, I loved seeing the orange felon gnash his teeth and fume and stew and exaggerate and fulminate about all those murderers, rapists, and escaped mental hospital inmates flooding over the U.S. southern border.
Moderator Muir caught him doing this again once time too many and asked him point blank why he ordered his spineless followers in Congress to scuttle the bipartisan border deal. Heather, too, cites this in hers tonight -- because the convicted criminal refused to answer, but went off instead on his usual crowd size nonsense (after Kamala had baited him on that).
But then again, the fat felon did answer -- his answer his steady stream of hysteria as to the surging murderers, rapists, and mental hospital escapees from all over the world. He demonstrated he killed the border bill that he killed because he needs this sensationalized set of lies as his only real offering.
So the good cat ladies of America (so many good Swifties of all ages, genders, and skin colors) all had a pretty nice evening.
And those of us watching it over lunch-hour in Australia had a very pleasant time as well.
Kamala reminded me of Crocodile Dundee.
A thug accosted him and a girl, and the girl gasped to him about the thug, He has a knife!
Crocodile Dundee laughed with pity for the thug, and assured the girl -- pulling out his own most-proper knife -- that the thug's wasn't any kind of knife at all, but his own most certainly was.
Kamala's presence, mastery, ownership, and presidential mark all most certainly was what the orange thug on stage with her all most certainly was not.
Wow! Did you hear that collective sigh of relief breathed by the majority of women in our nation?
From Harris's striding into Trump's space to introduce herself to him to Trump's quick descent into incoherent, wildly nightmarish rants, Harris dominated the debate. And, she really had his number.
She knew how to shame him into telling more and more thoroughly discredited lies, revealing himself as the weak, unhinged old man he really is. I don't think anyone would argue about who won that debate -- it was clearly our next President, Kamala Harris.
Such a contrast to the last debate… where TFG lied just as much as he did tonight but no one noticed.
It takes a good woman with a brain to stop a bad guy without one. . .
The future POTUS Harris graciously held back from using the term "dementia" when describing her opponent but then, she didn't have to as he openly self-owned it himself every time he spoke. It was a beautiful thing to witness.
At one point after one of his deluge of lies, she said this......former President...
I can only speculate at the words she was considering during that significant pause.
Charles, I saw a brilliant meme on Threads soon after the debate concluded, saying along the lines "do you ever wonder what's going through someone's mind..." while then showing various cuts from movie scenes "Idiot!" "Moron!" And several saltier ones, before settling on "former president". Hilarious!
Saw it - so funny and right on! 😆