Listen now (2 min) | Friends, The words “anniversary” or “commemoration” do not appropriately characterize this day. What occurred a year ago is nothing to be memorialized, nothing to glorify. What happened on January 6, 2021 was frightening and shameful. That date shall live in infamy — like December 7, 1941 and 9/11. The difference is that on those days the United States was attacked by foreign powers, whereas on this date the United States was attacked by Americans — some waving American flags, most of them loyal to the man who had lost the presidential reelection the previous November 3 but who did not concede his loss and continues to argue the presidency was stolen from him.
I am praying fervently that Merrick Garland will stand up for America, investigate, and where appropriate prosecute those involved in this coup including Trump and his enablers (like Steve Bannon, Jeffery Clark, Peter Navarro, John Eastman, Mark Meadows, etc, etc). Our country can't move forward without a fair reckoning, not just prosecutions of low level trespassers.
So do we all. And still, there are reasons to believe that the big shots who instigated the coup will be spared, unfortunately. This from Democracynow! today:
Philippe ; We can decide that those on top will get off. I have had serious thoughts that they will get away with it. But! the investigation is happening and I am not going to decide that it is an impossibility that there may be justice. It will be over and then we can see what happens. So many times this guy and his friends have gotten away with things! We have Partisan 'conservative' courts and 'white collar' (read racist and upper class judges), which should not even exist! But it is not done yet, and there is not much anyone can do except insist that our A.G. and the Justice Department do their jobs. If they don't, the $#!t will hit the fan in this country!
Following an earlier comment yesterday on the same topic, I would just add that we really, really, really need to know who we are voting for and why. Corporate-establishment democrat lawmakers let Trump get away with four or five direct crimes against the Constitution. By not steadily raising these cases in front of the nation (which, of course, does not mean winning them), they showed that their priority is to protect the corporatocratic status quo in Washington instead of risking their career defending principles. We need to vote for people who truly believe in something, not just pretend to. And if we do not find enough of these darn progressives that establishment democrats constantly rail against, maybe it is time for some of us to run for office. After all, we are in that sense also the leaders we have been waiting for. (PS: If party loyalty matters to you and you have a hard time discerning who believes in what, just follow the money)
Corporate Democrats took over much of the Democratic Party in the 1990s. I know. I was there. Wall Street played far too great a role in the Clinton and Obama White Houses, when Democrats controlled both houses of Congress.
Couldn't we go as far back as to the insiders' coup against Henry A. Wallace during the 1944 Democratic National Convention, or to the creation of Super Delegates in 1982?
Phillipe ; Precisely. I have read things on the forum that suggest the obvious, that a candidate be vetted before even being allowed to run for the highest office in the land. Tax records and a full investigation of the person's financial picture and even credit status. Also, an evaluation of their knowledge of the what a president does, and some understanding of basic law. Are they capable? Do they care about the common good? How many lawsuits do they have going? Do they have a criminal record? Do they have close ties with enemy states? Authoritarians? Fascists? Q- anon, proud boys? Roger Stone? Blackwater ( or whatever they are known as today)? Are they rascist, sexist? Beholden to the Pope or any other religious ties that can interfere with the Constitution? Do they know the Constitution?
I totally agree with you. I said that when Trump was first elected. There is no possible way he could pass the highest security clearance and yet he is given access to everything! Then he insists his son-in-law receive top clearance even though he wasn't cleared for it! No one wanted to point out that he lost his Foundation due to fraud or that he had to pay back money to the students of his "University". THAT'S the type of person we want running our country?
YES!! All money in politics should be banned and illegal!! Until then, every single politicians or lobbyist or whoever in DC should be required by law to list their sponsors & amounts and wear them on their backs permanently. Like a NASCAR jacket
I think we share the same concern in two very different ways. To me, this is not about the canditate's religion, credit record, or whose intern he/she might have slept with. I do not want Snow White in the White House or anywhere near other alleys of power. I would even excuse a lack of historical and constitutional knowledge. The only criteria that does matter is the intent to work for the common good, in my view. It is assessed by default when checking campaign contributions. Corporate money is banned.
I'll take issue with one point, here. I'd prefer to have people who know what the devil they're doing as chief executive of a super power. That includes some basic knowledge of history. Indeed, I'd like them to at least be able to pass the same test an immigrant must take for citizenship - if you catch my drift, here. At least that cowboy actor had that much knowledge. By my reckoning, I doubt most sitting Republicans could pass the damn thing - and probably a fair number of sitting Democrats, as well! (To be fair, I even wonder if >I< could!)
Phillipe, I am not interested in the candidate's religion, but may want to know if they would want to impose their beliefs on the country, as far as the credit goes, this information may show whether they are susceptible to being 'bought', whether they are needy and ready to sell off our country, Likewise I am not concerned about their personal liaisons, but are they going to proposition aides and potentially fire them for not saying 'yes'? As a young woman I have experienced being fired for not 'going to dinner' with the boss. One does not have to be 'snow white' or a prude to be concerned about a leader's morals. I also think a prospective president should have at least an idea of what their duties would be.
I certainly did not mean to offend anyone. What I meant is that the criteria to accept someone running for and accessing to office cannot be that of an average employee. The one criterium that matters above all is: Who is this person running for? Campaign money will tell you. Beyond this specific money issue, those who govern us do not need to be better than us; they just need to commit to what they say they believe in. Integrity is the keyword, it seems.
I completely agree with you, also. The only problem is corporations, billionaires and foreign countries have found clever ways to hide campaign contributions. What we need to do is find a way to stop these big money campaigns. Each candidate should have a set amount of money to campaign and it needs to come from a presidential campaign fund. No billionaires, no corporations, no foreign contributors. The President should not "owe" anyone any favors.
I agree with you, though, about the "Snow White" issue - within reason. Sufficient they're not in somebody's pocket, they understand the nature of "public interest," understand they're not above the law, and for chrissake, can keep their lousy hands to themselves! And above all else, understand their authority is not entitlement, and rests "as lightly as a fallen oak leaf on their shoulder." (Although, I doubt many sitting politicians >anywhere< understand that last bit about authority!)
I think it's traditional, dating back to the Revolution, when the only means they had at hand of designating a leadership rank was to pin an oak leaf on the leader's shoulder - and the explanation concerning the meaning ascribed to the oak leaf. Otherwise, I don't recall where I remember it from - only - at best - a paraphrase of what I do recall. I came across it years & years ago.
I think this is so spot on. I know that we have taught our children that they can be president of the United States, but we also need to make sure they are well educated and understand what that really means.
Phillipe ; Nut jobs can get away with more with money. But Trump was not as wealthy as he implied he was. He is probably richer now, but he is still racist, sexist, sue happy and generally lacks integrity and ethics.
How 'bout a sexual predator with money? Think of the high-profile sex trafficking case in the news now concerning Epstein & his secretary. Money >definitely< made them more dangerous. Indeed, concerning the others, money makes every sitting Republican more dangerous.
Philippe ; My point is that one can do damage without being rich. lack of good judgment in military decisions, or immigration policies, for example. Or saying things without thinking about people of color, or people in certain countries or those of faiths different from one's own. Calling Detroit a $#it#ole full of losers, or those who serve in our military suckers. Words can even kill, and have.
You don't have to pass a security clearance to run for office and you shouldn't have to. This tendency to believe that somehow Trump or some other demagogue can be prevented from running for office by having to pass a security clearance is somewhat naive. I assumed you offered it in jest. passing a security clearance test to run for office infringes upon First Amendment rights and unless you want to live in a police state isn't a good idea. The way to prevent Trump from running for office is to discredit his leadership role within the Republican Party.
The person who holds the highest office in our country should be able to pass a security test. To hold certain jobs in the armed forces you need to pass security test. Why shouldn't the commander in chief be held to the same standards as the people they command.
PP ; I'm not the only one who has said it may be a good idea to have a prospective candidate be vetted properly and a security clearance checks for financial instability which could become a weakness when in office, They can make deals and sell jobs like the former guy did, and take money for not enforcing certain rules, be bribed to lift sanctions and things like that.
That is because you have integrity. If you look at the future of presidential candidates soon to be revealed to us by the Republicans, Trump might begin to look like Bushy junior. Once these imbeciles can push him aside they will stuff him and present him as a father of our country like Ronald Raygun. Future generations if there are any will think that only an incompetent liar can run for office. Oops did I say future.
Thank you, Robert, for so clearly stating this -- love listening to your voice "speaking" it as well; appreciate that touch -- your gentle, measured voice and honest, somber tone.
The problem that I see is the process is TOO SLOW AND INEFFICIENT. At the rate it’s going nothing of REAL substance will happen before the midterms and with the various states voting law hijacking’s and the right wing propaganda machines there is a very high risk of a repugnant win in November and bye bye commission and kiss democracy good bye.
The congressional and senatorial insurrectionists need to be on a fast track expulsion and trump and his circle need to be in cuffs before June….
We’re on the edge of the cliff and about to fall off….
I find your comments healthy and invigorating. How do we talk to the people that have been duped by this whole travesty of the Trump regime. I don't like to call them stupid or dumb, because I think they are ignorant of history and don't really understand that Trump is just as uneducated in history and economics as they are. I think the Trump followers think they are kindred spirits with him. How do we educate when people are so ready to band anything that will elevate their ignorance?
Don't try to talk to passionate Trumpers whose minds have been poisoned. Talk to those still capable of listening. And talk with an open mind. Share your own stories. Talk about your own experiences and frustrations with the system -- your job, your pay, your insurance (or lack of), your family's needs. And listen to their stories. Establish common ground. That's the basis for trust, and trust is the basis for opening and changing minds.
Ron Johnson is probably the dumbest member of the Senate. I also live in a very red district. I deal with Trump supporters (some are family members) all the time. Most are decent folks who have a very distorted view of the Democratic party in general and liberals in particular. I find it best to focus on providing a true picture of what Democrats are trying to achieve for the people and avoid criticizing (or even mentioning) Trump at all. Most will listen to me.
Donald Trump and his supports (enablers) are the worst threat to democracy we have ever had. We need to hold anyone involved in this attack on our country accountable for their actions. We need to call on section 3 of the 14th amendment and remove the enablers from OUR HOUSE. Anyone directly involved should be charged with treason.
While I am concerned that the democrats will get into a big Kumbaya circle rather than push this (no wonder they lose), hopefully Merrick Garland will use the full force of the justice department to punish those involved.
I truly fear for democracy as we move closer and closer to authoritarianism.
The American people has no backup. The Democratic party is worthless, at best. It is not just about what Republicans do, it is even more fundamentally about what Democrats do not do. The system is rigged and we, the people, need to rebuild it. Democrats in power must feel the heat.
I’m still horrified at the events and it’s shocking it was a year ago and we are in COVID year 3. How pathetic and sad is it that people refuse the vaccine (and kill others) because a lying, rapist, swindler with zero medical, scientific or political experience told them not to. Even though he and other lying politicians have received the vaccine now, that’s where it started. It’s disgusting. We are beyond the globe’s embarrassment. Our statistics regarding children welfare, poverty, hunger, education system is ABYSMAL compared with all the other industrialized nations (many, we as arrogant Americans think we’re better than). Our maternal mortality rate is abysmal. Pro life, what a fuxking joke. Makes me sick. WHAT ARE WE DOING USA?!
Reminds me of when I worked at a skilled nursing facility as a LMSW and the elderly would say “there’s my guy” and point to Trump on Fox News.
Yeah you have Medicare and many also had Medicaid, the “guy” you like would love to end it. Constantly voting against their own interests. It ENRAGES and baffles me.
So many people only vote for whoever wants to ban abortions too. 1 issue voters. They stick together
Thank you Mr. Reich. All Americans need to understand what is taking place. I wish Biden would be more aggressive with his rhetoric and actions. Basically republicans are playing too big of a role in running the country. They made Biden look foolish, him begging his BBB program be passed and deliberately backed out. Biden looks like Kim of North Korea with Trump with nuclear weapons. Remove the filibuster, ban insurrectionists serving in Congress. Do you realize how ridiculous that sounds? We gave Biden every branch of government and unfortunately he’s too weak. Expand our Supreme Court to achieve balance. It’s been over a year and every traitorous actor is still in place. I guess he thinks we will vote them out which is an example of doing the same thing and expecting different results. Insanity. I think it’s too late. Ted Cruz is already planning impeachment. That’s a traitor in action serving in Congress
Abraham Lincoln and FDR were both criticized in their first years as being "weak." The true test of a president is what he (eventually she) accomplishes.
Yes. And I suggest that psychological and cultural guidance be required for those detained by ministers of justice. Those angry people who have fallen for the Big Lie need more than jail time or community service. They must learn that violence such as they showed is harmful to themselves as well as to their fellow citizens and figures of authority like guards and police, and that wanton destruction of public (or private) property will not be tolerated, excused or admired.
I plan to call up my Democratic Congressperson and ask when the Justice Department is going to get around to indicting the co-conspirators of those who invaded the Capitol.
Capping four years of Trump kowtowing to Vladimir Putin, Xi Jinping, and Kim Jong-Un, the images of the mob of Americans attacking our seat of government to overturn a legitimate election badly damaged our country's standing in the world.
I watched as much of Garland as I could stand. here is a guy who has been kicked all over Washington by the Republicans and is now in a position to end future attacks and marginalize the leaders of the right wing conspiracy to overthrow our government. What is he doing? In his own words going after the little guy. Going after the person who went to the rally and then went to the Capitol. Distinguishing between the person trespassing and the person attacking. But where is the investigation and prosecution of the organizers of the attack? Is Garland afraid of prosecuting them? Has he been told not to by the White House? Why are we all focused on Trump and not his direct lieutenants? Nixon was brought down when the criminals carrying out his policies, one by one were indicted and capitulated. The smoking gun came with the revelation at a Congressional hearing by one of them of the existence of the tapes. Prosecuting some fool with horns who sat in Pelosi's chair is like stopping the Watergate prosecution with the burglars. Its al,most as if the Democrats want us to believe Trump did it without having to present the evidence. A year on is too much. Garland has the responsibility to end this shame or resign if he cannot do the job.
DZK ; Not your point at all. Watergate had 4 or 5 actors. Jan 6, 2021 had thousands. It was recorded and shown on media and national TV. See above my response to P.P. There is a sound reason to get the actual assailants and send a message that it may be risky to attack again. Some gave info when being questioned by authorities. There was identification of who was leading them. Also, who needs a 'subset of thousands' on the loose ready to attack again as the investigation is under way?
I'm not getting the distinction you're making here. You first must identify the actual assailants among the thousands before you can hold them accountable. That's why things are moving so slowly. It was easier with Watergate because there were relatively few actors involved. That's why things moved much quicker per Mr Pandle's complaint at the top of this branch of the discussion. By the way, the actual assailants are a subset of the mob by the very definition of what a subset is, where the mob is a set universe, and the assailants are a subset of said universe. I'm speaking valid set theory in my statement.
So let's divide up the Trumpers into those who attended the rally and the subset that marched to the Capitol. Then you can divide that marching subset into those that did not go past police barriers and/or watched what happened but did not participate in the illegal activities and those that did participate in the illegal activities. In this group you have those that assaulted the police, those that broke into the Capitol and those that walked into the Capitol. While these people should and are being charged with crimes only the terrorists that assaulted the police and operated in an organized and coordinated way can supply any worthwhile information. This would be the Proud Boys etc. I'm sure the FBI knows all about these groups. They know who their leaders are and what they talked about doing in planning the event. That is not 800 people. It is a smaller group. The next step is to see where the money flowed to organize the rally and which political operatives amongst the President's Men were involved in meeting, talking to, coordinating, and planning the assault. That is a handful of people. They together with the Congresspersons who violated their oath of office by encouraging this assault on the Constitution need Garland's immediate attention. They will organize the next assault. The Justice Department is wasting time on sorting out who watched and who trespassed. It needs to concentrate on who organized the illegal violent activity and who in the political system fomented the attempt to stop the counting of the votes. They need to be expelled from Congress and in the case of the PResident's Men, indicted and prosecuted. ASAP
DZK ; Set theory aside, I made my points to illustrate what I see our justice department doing. Yes, it takes time to sift through all the images in the videos and get I.D.'s on all the violent offenders. It would be great if the law could just get Trump and his accomplices in a perp walk right into jail. But there must be evidence and intel. It takes time to build a case. They are now going after the organizers of the attack with information and witnesses. I think they know what they are doing. If they drop the ball on this you and me and P.P. will not be the only ones angry or ill served. I don't think that you should expect me to limit my perspective to match P.P.'s or yours either.
P.P. ; I would think that getting the actual attackers would show those interested in attacking in future assaults that they will face consequences. They also may give information about how things were organized. As they work their way up the chain of command, some will reveal things, tell of plans, maybe even break under pressure to reveal who was giving orders. They are working their way to the top. people in higher places are beginning to respond. Some are on their way to jail, if they don't cooperate.
Why would Merrick Garland rock the boat so hard that the same type of scrutiny and transparency would then be asked for all politicians, Democrats and Republicans? I might be wrong (and definitely hope to) but it seems to me that, after dozens of years of bribery gradually allowed by the Supreme Court, what comes first is the system of corporate rule as it is. Almost all politicians depend on it. Sure, Trump did the unthinkable, but Trump will pass and is already seeing his popularity declining. My guess is that it is the calculation made in Washington. Please, prove me wrong someone!
Looking back at Watergate my theory is that Nixon kept reaching higher and higher into the ruling class. He was using all of the McCarthy era tactics including looking at the finances of those people on his enemies list. He wouldn’t let go of the Vietnam War. It was one thing to go after protesters and another to go after people with money who were getting tired of wasting money on a bad investment.
Trump presents a different problem. He recognizes that the class conflict problems created by the wealthy not wanting to share the wealth anymore presents an opportunity for those showmen such as himself savvy in media manipulation to grab the microphone. The level of incompetence that the public has gotten used to also gives him the opportunity to screw up policy and never be held accountable.
But capitalism itself is now in crisis. At least the version of capitalism practiced here. The threat is coming from state capitalism in China.
So despite all the moral appeals of a good guy like Reich, it comes down to two things. -1- Will the centrists in the Democratic Party understand the need for reform and pressure the Democrats in Washington? -2- Will corporations throw in their lot like they did with the fascists in Germany?
I did write a blog: https://misssylviadrake.livejournal.com/194420.html The terrifying worry is what the Guardian and Atlantic essays bring out: Trump and allies are making their movement grow and nothing is being done about it. They don't answer subpoenas and no one it seems dare arrest Trump or anyone else. It's not what happened last year; it's what will happen in the next election as the GOP has set up and continues to set up rigged procedures.
I listened to our Attorney General yesterday and it seemed surreal that a year later he was saying things that it seemed were overdue. I am not a lawyer, so I don't fully realize just what is involved in practicing the law. But it was good to hear him addressing the nation and asserting that he intends to bring justice as quickly as possible while being thorough.
Thank you, Dr. Reich, for your words of wisdom that rang thru my ears a year ago, and are still ringing, especially today on the first anniversary of this tragic national event that was instigated by Trump and his followers. We must continue our vigilence against the extreme wrong doing of a former President of this country, and work in whatever ways we can to seek to find ways to stop this insanity! Trump is a dangerous man in so many ways, and his behavior toward this country does not merit his future involvement in our law making now or at any future date. He is obviously a danger to this country and our people, and the sooner we prosecute him with real jail time, the better off we will be! Sincerely, Dr. And Mrs.William and Kathleen Peterson, Mansfield, OH
I was elated that the coup failed. However, there are chilling similarities between Trump’s actions and Hitler’s rise to power. I can’t imagine a scenario that would ever convince Trump supporters of the legitimacy of the 2020 election. Facts didn’t matter in 2016 or 2020. I have stopped arguing with them because it is pointless as they bow down and worship their idol and refuse to see him for what he really is. It makes me sad to see how far “off the rails” the Grand Old Party has gone. My parents and my grandparents were lifelong Republicans.
I have pretty much given up on passionate Trump supporters. They live in another world that I can't possibly reach. But there are millions of other Republicans, conservatives, and right-leaning independents who can be reached, must be reached. It is our responsibility to try to reach them.
I am praying fervently that Merrick Garland will stand up for America, investigate, and where appropriate prosecute those involved in this coup including Trump and his enablers (like Steve Bannon, Jeffery Clark, Peter Navarro, John Eastman, Mark Meadows, etc, etc). Our country can't move forward without a fair reckoning, not just prosecutions of low level trespassers.
So do we all. And still, there are reasons to believe that the big shots who instigated the coup will be spared, unfortunately. This from Democracynow! today:
https://www.democracynow.org/2022/1/6/department_of_justice_attorney_general_merrick
Philippe ; We can decide that those on top will get off. I have had serious thoughts that they will get away with it. But! the investigation is happening and I am not going to decide that it is an impossibility that there may be justice. It will be over and then we can see what happens. So many times this guy and his friends have gotten away with things! We have Partisan 'conservative' courts and 'white collar' (read racist and upper class judges), which should not even exist! But it is not done yet, and there is not much anyone can do except insist that our A.G. and the Justice Department do their jobs. If they don't, the $#!t will hit the fan in this country!
Following an earlier comment yesterday on the same topic, I would just add that we really, really, really need to know who we are voting for and why. Corporate-establishment democrat lawmakers let Trump get away with four or five direct crimes against the Constitution. By not steadily raising these cases in front of the nation (which, of course, does not mean winning them), they showed that their priority is to protect the corporatocratic status quo in Washington instead of risking their career defending principles. We need to vote for people who truly believe in something, not just pretend to. And if we do not find enough of these darn progressives that establishment democrats constantly rail against, maybe it is time for some of us to run for office. After all, we are in that sense also the leaders we have been waiting for. (PS: If party loyalty matters to you and you have a hard time discerning who believes in what, just follow the money)
Corporate Democrats took over much of the Democratic Party in the 1990s. I know. I was there. Wall Street played far too great a role in the Clinton and Obama White Houses, when Democrats controlled both houses of Congress.
Couldn't we go as far back as to the insiders' coup against Henry A. Wallace during the 1944 Democratic National Convention, or to the creation of Super Delegates in 1982?
Phillipe ; Precisely. I have read things on the forum that suggest the obvious, that a candidate be vetted before even being allowed to run for the highest office in the land. Tax records and a full investigation of the person's financial picture and even credit status. Also, an evaluation of their knowledge of the what a president does, and some understanding of basic law. Are they capable? Do they care about the common good? How many lawsuits do they have going? Do they have a criminal record? Do they have close ties with enemy states? Authoritarians? Fascists? Q- anon, proud boys? Roger Stone? Blackwater ( or whatever they are known as today)? Are they rascist, sexist? Beholden to the Pope or any other religious ties that can interfere with the Constitution? Do they know the Constitution?
I totally agree with you. I said that when Trump was first elected. There is no possible way he could pass the highest security clearance and yet he is given access to everything! Then he insists his son-in-law receive top clearance even though he wasn't cleared for it! No one wanted to point out that he lost his Foundation due to fraud or that he had to pay back money to the students of his "University". THAT'S the type of person we want running our country?
Let's just get money out of politics. Problem solved. No one would then excuse a wannabee dictator to do what he pleases.
YES!! All money in politics should be banned and illegal!! Until then, every single politicians or lobbyist or whoever in DC should be required by law to list their sponsors & amounts and wear them on their backs permanently. Like a NASCAR jacket
I think we share the same concern in two very different ways. To me, this is not about the canditate's religion, credit record, or whose intern he/she might have slept with. I do not want Snow White in the White House or anywhere near other alleys of power. I would even excuse a lack of historical and constitutional knowledge. The only criteria that does matter is the intent to work for the common good, in my view. It is assessed by default when checking campaign contributions. Corporate money is banned.
I'll take issue with one point, here. I'd prefer to have people who know what the devil they're doing as chief executive of a super power. That includes some basic knowledge of history. Indeed, I'd like them to at least be able to pass the same test an immigrant must take for citizenship - if you catch my drift, here. At least that cowboy actor had that much knowledge. By my reckoning, I doubt most sitting Republicans could pass the damn thing - and probably a fair number of sitting Democrats, as well! (To be fair, I even wonder if >I< could!)
How about a fun little test? We should all see if we can pass the test. I’ll go look for it.
My greatest satisfaction in life is to stimulate an idea! Go for it & post a link!
https://www.uscis.gov/sites/default/files/document/questions-and-answers/100q.pdf. After looking at it I am sure everyone on this list could pass it.
Fair is fair, I bet most could not
Phillipe, I am not interested in the candidate's religion, but may want to know if they would want to impose their beliefs on the country, as far as the credit goes, this information may show whether they are susceptible to being 'bought', whether they are needy and ready to sell off our country, Likewise I am not concerned about their personal liaisons, but are they going to proposition aides and potentially fire them for not saying 'yes'? As a young woman I have experienced being fired for not 'going to dinner' with the boss. One does not have to be 'snow white' or a prude to be concerned about a leader's morals. I also think a prospective president should have at least an idea of what their duties would be.
I certainly did not mean to offend anyone. What I meant is that the criteria to accept someone running for and accessing to office cannot be that of an average employee. The one criterium that matters above all is: Who is this person running for? Campaign money will tell you. Beyond this specific money issue, those who govern us do not need to be better than us; they just need to commit to what they say they believe in. Integrity is the keyword, it seems.
Exactly.
I completely agree with you, also. The only problem is corporations, billionaires and foreign countries have found clever ways to hide campaign contributions. What we need to do is find a way to stop these big money campaigns. Each candidate should have a set amount of money to campaign and it needs to come from a presidential campaign fund. No billionaires, no corporations, no foreign contributors. The President should not "owe" anyone any favors.
I agree with you, though, about the "Snow White" issue - within reason. Sufficient they're not in somebody's pocket, they understand the nature of "public interest," understand they're not above the law, and for chrissake, can keep their lousy hands to themselves! And above all else, understand their authority is not entitlement, and rests "as lightly as a fallen oak leaf on their shoulder." (Although, I doubt many sitting politicians >anywhere< understand that last bit about authority!)
Okay, I admit to not knowing the quote. I couldn’t find it with Google either. What’s it from?
I think it's traditional, dating back to the Revolution, when the only means they had at hand of designating a leadership rank was to pin an oak leaf on the leader's shoulder - and the explanation concerning the meaning ascribed to the oak leaf. Otherwise, I don't recall where I remember it from - only - at best - a paraphrase of what I do recall. I came across it years & years ago.
Here’s the citizenship test: https://www.uscis.gov/sites/default/files/document/questions-and-answers/100q.pdf
Thank you!
I think this is so spot on. I know that we have taught our children that they can be president of the United States, but we also need to make sure they are well educated and understand what that really means.
Phillipe ; First question that should be asked is: can the candidate pass a security clearance?
Trump would pass, you wouldn't. You question authority. He bribes those with authority.
Agreed. Money is a far more dangerous weapon against democracy and our eventual security. It enables nutjobs in their doings.
Phillipe ; Nut jobs can get away with more with money. But Trump was not as wealthy as he implied he was. He is probably richer now, but he is still racist, sexist, sue happy and generally lacks integrity and ethics.
Philippe ; Power in the presidential office allows a person to pardon even partners in crime, apparently, as we have learned.
Money is a far more dangerous weapon than what?, being a sexual predator? Or a racist? Or homophobe? These are all important.
How 'bout a sexual predator with money? Think of the high-profile sex trafficking case in the news now concerning Epstein & his secretary. Money >definitely< made them more dangerous. Indeed, concerning the others, money makes every sitting Republican more dangerous.
DZK ; For sure, and he was able to game the judicial system for a long time, like some others in power for years.
Yes, and?...
Philippe ; My point is that one can do damage without being rich. lack of good judgment in military decisions, or immigration policies, for example. Or saying things without thinking about people of color, or people in certain countries or those of faiths different from one's own. Calling Detroit a $#it#ole full of losers, or those who serve in our military suckers. Words can even kill, and have.
Philippe ; the power of words to harm others, in politics, in the world at large. Power itself can be misused.
Speaking of the power conferred by the Presidential office.
LOL! ];-)>
Peter Pandle ; You never question authority?
Peter pandle ; Why do you say that I can't pass a security clearance? I am not trying to run for office? Feels like a personal innuendo.
You don't have to pass a security clearance to run for office and you shouldn't have to. This tendency to believe that somehow Trump or some other demagogue can be prevented from running for office by having to pass a security clearance is somewhat naive. I assumed you offered it in jest. passing a security clearance test to run for office infringes upon First Amendment rights and unless you want to live in a police state isn't a good idea. The way to prevent Trump from running for office is to discredit his leadership role within the Republican Party.
The person who holds the highest office in our country should be able to pass a security test. To hold certain jobs in the armed forces you need to pass security test. Why shouldn't the commander in chief be held to the same standards as the people they command.
PP ; I'm not the only one who has said it may be a good idea to have a prospective candidate be vetted properly and a security clearance checks for financial instability which could become a weakness when in office, They can make deals and sell jobs like the former guy did, and take money for not enforcing certain rules, be bribed to lift sanctions and things like that.
I would not run for president.
That is because you have integrity. If you look at the future of presidential candidates soon to be revealed to us by the Republicans, Trump might begin to look like Bushy junior. Once these imbeciles can push him aside they will stuff him and present him as a father of our country like Ronald Raygun. Future generations if there are any will think that only an incompetent liar can run for office. Oops did I say future.
Also do they know and understand the constitution.
Good observation. The Democrats do have some rot.
Thank you, Robert, for so clearly stating this -- love listening to your voice "speaking" it as well; appreciate that touch -- your gentle, measured voice and honest, somber tone.
Thank you, Wendy,
The problem that I see is the process is TOO SLOW AND INEFFICIENT. At the rate it’s going nothing of REAL substance will happen before the midterms and with the various states voting law hijacking’s and the right wing propaganda machines there is a very high risk of a repugnant win in November and bye bye commission and kiss democracy good bye.
The congressional and senatorial insurrectionists need to be on a fast track expulsion and trump and his circle need to be in cuffs before June….
We’re on the edge of the cliff and about to fall off….
I find your comments healthy and invigorating. How do we talk to the people that have been duped by this whole travesty of the Trump regime. I don't like to call them stupid or dumb, because I think they are ignorant of history and don't really understand that Trump is just as uneducated in history and economics as they are. I think the Trump followers think they are kindred spirits with him. How do we educate when people are so ready to band anything that will elevate their ignorance?
Don't try to talk to passionate Trumpers whose minds have been poisoned. Talk to those still capable of listening. And talk with an open mind. Share your own stories. Talk about your own experiences and frustrations with the system -- your job, your pay, your insurance (or lack of), your family's needs. And listen to their stories. Establish common ground. That's the basis for trust, and trust is the basis for opening and changing minds.
I live in a truly republican district. I have Ron Johnson as Senator . Can you feel my pain?
Ron Johnson is probably the dumbest member of the Senate. I also live in a very red district. I deal with Trump supporters (some are family members) all the time. Most are decent folks who have a very distorted view of the Democratic party in general and liberals in particular. I find it best to focus on providing a true picture of what Democrats are trying to achieve for the people and avoid criticizing (or even mentioning) Trump at all. Most will listen to me.
Ugh!
Donald Trump and his supports (enablers) are the worst threat to democracy we have ever had. We need to hold anyone involved in this attack on our country accountable for their actions. We need to call on section 3 of the 14th amendment and remove the enablers from OUR HOUSE. Anyone directly involved should be charged with treason.
While I am concerned that the democrats will get into a big Kumbaya circle rather than push this (no wonder they lose), hopefully Merrick Garland will use the full force of the justice department to punish those involved.
I truly fear for democracy as we move closer and closer to authoritarianism.
I share your fear.
The American people has no backup. The Democratic party is worthless, at best. It is not just about what Republicans do, it is even more fundamentally about what Democrats do not do. The system is rigged and we, the people, need to rebuild it. Democrats in power must feel the heat.
I’m truly horrified and 2022 I think will greatly upset me….
I’m still horrified at the events and it’s shocking it was a year ago and we are in COVID year 3. How pathetic and sad is it that people refuse the vaccine (and kill others) because a lying, rapist, swindler with zero medical, scientific or political experience told them not to. Even though he and other lying politicians have received the vaccine now, that’s where it started. It’s disgusting. We are beyond the globe’s embarrassment. Our statistics regarding children welfare, poverty, hunger, education system is ABYSMAL compared with all the other industrialized nations (many, we as arrogant Americans think we’re better than). Our maternal mortality rate is abysmal. Pro life, what a fuxking joke. Makes me sick. WHAT ARE WE DOING USA?!
So many people accused me of lying and said “no police were brutalized on January 6th, calm down”. How can people be so willfully ignorant?
Just watch Fox and Fox only.
Reminds me of when I worked at a skilled nursing facility as a LMSW and the elderly would say “there’s my guy” and point to Trump on Fox News.
Yeah you have Medicare and many also had Medicaid, the “guy” you like would love to end it. Constantly voting against their own interests. It ENRAGES and baffles me.
So many people only vote for whoever wants to ban abortions too. 1 issue voters. They stick together
phezweb ; It's a kind of hypnosis of hate.
Indeed. It must be because it’s beyond baffling to me.
They obviously have a false image of who tRump really is.
Thank you Mr. Reich. All Americans need to understand what is taking place. I wish Biden would be more aggressive with his rhetoric and actions. Basically republicans are playing too big of a role in running the country. They made Biden look foolish, him begging his BBB program be passed and deliberately backed out. Biden looks like Kim of North Korea with Trump with nuclear weapons. Remove the filibuster, ban insurrectionists serving in Congress. Do you realize how ridiculous that sounds? We gave Biden every branch of government and unfortunately he’s too weak. Expand our Supreme Court to achieve balance. It’s been over a year and every traitorous actor is still in place. I guess he thinks we will vote them out which is an example of doing the same thing and expecting different results. Insanity. I think it’s too late. Ted Cruz is already planning impeachment. That’s a traitor in action serving in Congress
Abraham Lincoln and FDR were both criticized in their first years as being "weak." The true test of a president is what he (eventually she) accomplishes.
Intelligence and patience are strong suits . And to have both is indeed something to aspire to.
Yes. And I suggest that psychological and cultural guidance be required for those detained by ministers of justice. Those angry people who have fallen for the Big Lie need more than jail time or community service. They must learn that violence such as they showed is harmful to themselves as well as to their fellow citizens and figures of authority like guards and police, and that wanton destruction of public (or private) property will not be tolerated, excused or admired.
I plan to call up my Democratic Congressperson and ask when the Justice Department is going to get around to indicting the co-conspirators of those who invaded the Capitol.
Capping four years of Trump kowtowing to Vladimir Putin, Xi Jinping, and Kim Jong-Un, the images of the mob of Americans attacking our seat of government to overturn a legitimate election badly damaged our country's standing in the world.
I watched as much of Garland as I could stand. here is a guy who has been kicked all over Washington by the Republicans and is now in a position to end future attacks and marginalize the leaders of the right wing conspiracy to overthrow our government. What is he doing? In his own words going after the little guy. Going after the person who went to the rally and then went to the Capitol. Distinguishing between the person trespassing and the person attacking. But where is the investigation and prosecution of the organizers of the attack? Is Garland afraid of prosecuting them? Has he been told not to by the White House? Why are we all focused on Trump and not his direct lieutenants? Nixon was brought down when the criminals carrying out his policies, one by one were indicted and capitulated. The smoking gun came with the revelation at a Congressional hearing by one of them of the existence of the tapes. Prosecuting some fool with horns who sat in Pelosi's chair is like stopping the Watergate prosecution with the burglars. Its al,most as if the Democrats want us to believe Trump did it without having to present the evidence. A year on is too much. Garland has the responsibility to end this shame or resign if he cannot do the job.
Just to make sure you're aware there were only about 4 or 5 principles involved with Watergate - not 700+. Just sayin'.
That was not a mass assault on the People's House. There were thousands of attackers.
My point exactly. Prosecuting 4 or 5 clearly visible perps is a lot quicker and easier than identifying & prosecuting some large subset of thousands.
DZK ; Not your point at all. Watergate had 4 or 5 actors. Jan 6, 2021 had thousands. It was recorded and shown on media and national TV. See above my response to P.P. There is a sound reason to get the actual assailants and send a message that it may be risky to attack again. Some gave info when being questioned by authorities. There was identification of who was leading them. Also, who needs a 'subset of thousands' on the loose ready to attack again as the investigation is under way?
I'm not getting the distinction you're making here. You first must identify the actual assailants among the thousands before you can hold them accountable. That's why things are moving so slowly. It was easier with Watergate because there were relatively few actors involved. That's why things moved much quicker per Mr Pandle's complaint at the top of this branch of the discussion. By the way, the actual assailants are a subset of the mob by the very definition of what a subset is, where the mob is a set universe, and the assailants are a subset of said universe. I'm speaking valid set theory in my statement.
So let's divide up the Trumpers into those who attended the rally and the subset that marched to the Capitol. Then you can divide that marching subset into those that did not go past police barriers and/or watched what happened but did not participate in the illegal activities and those that did participate in the illegal activities. In this group you have those that assaulted the police, those that broke into the Capitol and those that walked into the Capitol. While these people should and are being charged with crimes only the terrorists that assaulted the police and operated in an organized and coordinated way can supply any worthwhile information. This would be the Proud Boys etc. I'm sure the FBI knows all about these groups. They know who their leaders are and what they talked about doing in planning the event. That is not 800 people. It is a smaller group. The next step is to see where the money flowed to organize the rally and which political operatives amongst the President's Men were involved in meeting, talking to, coordinating, and planning the assault. That is a handful of people. They together with the Congresspersons who violated their oath of office by encouraging this assault on the Constitution need Garland's immediate attention. They will organize the next assault. The Justice Department is wasting time on sorting out who watched and who trespassed. It needs to concentrate on who organized the illegal violent activity and who in the political system fomented the attempt to stop the counting of the votes. They need to be expelled from Congress and in the case of the PResident's Men, indicted and prosecuted. ASAP
DZK ; Set theory aside, I made my points to illustrate what I see our justice department doing. Yes, it takes time to sift through all the images in the videos and get I.D.'s on all the violent offenders. It would be great if the law could just get Trump and his accomplices in a perp walk right into jail. But there must be evidence and intel. It takes time to build a case. They are now going after the organizers of the attack with information and witnesses. I think they know what they are doing. If they drop the ball on this you and me and P.P. will not be the only ones angry or ill served. I don't think that you should expect me to limit my perspective to match P.P.'s or yours either.
Watergate was not a mass assault. Like the Jan 6, 2022 was.
Two different actions, for sure.
P.P. ; I would think that getting the actual attackers would show those interested in attacking in future assaults that they will face consequences. They also may give information about how things were organized. As they work their way up the chain of command, some will reveal things, tell of plans, maybe even break under pressure to reveal who was giving orders. They are working their way to the top. people in higher places are beginning to respond. Some are on their way to jail, if they don't cooperate.
Why would Merrick Garland rock the boat so hard that the same type of scrutiny and transparency would then be asked for all politicians, Democrats and Republicans? I might be wrong (and definitely hope to) but it seems to me that, after dozens of years of bribery gradually allowed by the Supreme Court, what comes first is the system of corporate rule as it is. Almost all politicians depend on it. Sure, Trump did the unthinkable, but Trump will pass and is already seeing his popularity declining. My guess is that it is the calculation made in Washington. Please, prove me wrong someone!
Looking back at Watergate my theory is that Nixon kept reaching higher and higher into the ruling class. He was using all of the McCarthy era tactics including looking at the finances of those people on his enemies list. He wouldn’t let go of the Vietnam War. It was one thing to go after protesters and another to go after people with money who were getting tired of wasting money on a bad investment.
Trump presents a different problem. He recognizes that the class conflict problems created by the wealthy not wanting to share the wealth anymore presents an opportunity for those showmen such as himself savvy in media manipulation to grab the microphone. The level of incompetence that the public has gotten used to also gives him the opportunity to screw up policy and never be held accountable.
But capitalism itself is now in crisis. At least the version of capitalism practiced here. The threat is coming from state capitalism in China.
So despite all the moral appeals of a good guy like Reich, it comes down to two things. -1- Will the centrists in the Democratic Party understand the need for reform and pressure the Democrats in Washington? -2- Will corporations throw in their lot like they did with the fascists in Germany?
I did write a blog: https://misssylviadrake.livejournal.com/194420.html The terrifying worry is what the Guardian and Atlantic essays bring out: Trump and allies are making their movement grow and nothing is being done about it. They don't answer subpoenas and no one it seems dare arrest Trump or anyone else. It's not what happened last year; it's what will happen in the next election as the GOP has set up and continues to set up rigged procedures.
I listened to our Attorney General yesterday and it seemed surreal that a year later he was saying things that it seemed were overdue. I am not a lawyer, so I don't fully realize just what is involved in practicing the law. But it was good to hear him addressing the nation and asserting that he intends to bring justice as quickly as possible while being thorough.
Thank you, Dr. Reich, for your words of wisdom that rang thru my ears a year ago, and are still ringing, especially today on the first anniversary of this tragic national event that was instigated by Trump and his followers. We must continue our vigilence against the extreme wrong doing of a former President of this country, and work in whatever ways we can to seek to find ways to stop this insanity! Trump is a dangerous man in so many ways, and his behavior toward this country does not merit his future involvement in our law making now or at any future date. He is obviously a danger to this country and our people, and the sooner we prosecute him with real jail time, the better off we will be! Sincerely, Dr. And Mrs.William and Kathleen Peterson, Mansfield, OH
I was elated that the coup failed. However, there are chilling similarities between Trump’s actions and Hitler’s rise to power. I can’t imagine a scenario that would ever convince Trump supporters of the legitimacy of the 2020 election. Facts didn’t matter in 2016 or 2020. I have stopped arguing with them because it is pointless as they bow down and worship their idol and refuse to see him for what he really is. It makes me sad to see how far “off the rails” the Grand Old Party has gone. My parents and my grandparents were lifelong Republicans.
I have pretty much given up on passionate Trump supporters. They live in another world that I can't possibly reach. But there are millions of other Republicans, conservatives, and right-leaning independents who can be reached, must be reached. It is our responsibility to try to reach them.