Professor Reich, I worry that a lack of sleep, combined with your prolific output— for which I am extremely grateful, thank you—contribute to the nausea. I'm sure I speak for all of your readers when I say please take best care of yourself.
Everyone needs a day or two off. I suggest that on Fridays you post another writer's work on a topic you think is important and didn't get the attention deserved.
For example, re-stack a story by Hearher Cox Richardson and make a comment. Perhaps post some comedy clips from the Daily show or late night TV. Perhaps post a speech or interview by Bernie.
Do something easy on Friday. Start your weekend early. Then move the Saturday CC to Sunday. Then you've got a two day weekend.
7 days a week is too much work for anyone. You're making the French look lazy. But maybe they protest more because they are not so tired from working all the time. ;-)
Yes! Remember self care! I’m a retired therapist who has learned firsthand that the airplane oxygen mask cliche is a cliche for a reason. We can only resist and persist if we survive. Humor helps me. Eric Zorn has a great substack and his current “quip madness” competition made me laugh out loud. Here’s one of my favorites:
I was on a sofa next to my wife who was eating a snack and typing on her phone, I heard my phone ping in the kitchen where it was charging, so I went to check it, The text was from my wife. She’d written, "Bring me a drink on your way back.” — @dadgivesjokes
Fabulous ideas Danny, I'm with you. Not because I don't value your input, Professor Reich —because it truly is invaluable— but because I worry how sustainable this level of input will be over the months and years ahead. We never want to find that you've pulled back because your health has dictated it.
I eagerly look forward to all of your Substack posts. But I also hope that you take good care of yourself. When Trump and Musk are finally thrown in the dumpster of history, we want you and Heather Lofthouse to lead the parade of celebration.
Lovely idea! Though I think HCR's Substack (deservedly) gets plenty of eyes. A few others I highly recommend are Jessica Yellin's News Not Noise, Jay Kuo's The Status Kuo (I highly recommend his recent "Bogeymen and Trojan Horses: How to identify and call out Trump and Musk’s fascist tactics," which is on The Big Picture Substack), and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar's fantastic weekly Substack.
Clayton, you are right. Professor Reich is always spot on with his posts on what is happening. Whoever our leader is, it will be no small task helping magas get over their orange leader! When I speak to them, they always spew whatever lie is being promoted at the moment; however, one recurring theme I get from them is there is way too much unnecessary spending in our government! There are always going to be those that scam the system, that lie, cheat and steal from departments and programs. It is my opinion that once we rid ourselves of the orange smear and all of the other traitors, we put back our departments and programs only this time, not only would we use watch dogs but also require a once a year audit of each department and program by outside auditors. Knowing that someone will be keeping an eye on spending but also knowing that every year you have to account for everything your department or program has done. There should also be within each department, a section that is solely for the purpose of reviewing every applicant to programs offered and following up on questionable applicants. That way the government will be seen as efficient as possible which is what the magas want. Whoever our leader is should message that to everybody.
Peggy, as far as I know, the governmental departments are audited, well except for the Pentagon which has never passed any kind of audit. I am guessing the fraud is there if it is anywhere. The MAGAs like to whine about fraud. I think it's a word that feels good in their mouths even though they have no idea what or where it is. They want reduced spending on all the programs they have no contact with or that don't impact them. Heck, a few years ago, in one of those "person on the street" interviews, I heard two separate people say that the government should stay out of their Social Security. They were in different places so had no contact. Where did they think Social Security came from? On purpose, the MAGAs are not smart about politics, their lives, and so many of the things that really are important in their lives. They could wake up and maybe start with looking up the word "tariff" in a dictionary. Then they could expand by turning off Fox Not Nearly News. Who knows what might happen after that!
Nice guy, great friend, lovely sentiments, altruistic, but not the street fighter needed in these perilous (end of day) times. We need street fighters like Bernie, but he is too old, like AOC hampered because she is a woman and Hispanic (tain't right, but tis reality)
Senators and representatives don't make good presidents or leaders, they are raised on the art of compromise, comity,not conflict and confrontation, and for those that are allergic to hard leadership. Do no more than take a look at the foe. It has worked for them, has it not?
I read the first part of your seven part series it is well written, easy to follow, and beneficial information. Focusing on breathing helps to still mind-chatter that is essential to leave the alpha state when meditating. Centering is more of a grounding state of consciousness. I use both techniques depending on the situation. Centering is more useful in daily life as it does not require inactivity, per se. Thank you for sharing this useful and vital destressing technique in these difficult times.
Reaching out to others and sharing brings us all closer together so that our differences are merely expressions of our diversity. The GOP/Trump/MAGA wants to divide us so that we each feel cold and alone. As Bishop Budde said in the sermon, mercy and compassion unifies us, giving us a warm sense of togetherness, especially needed in times luje these.
I really don't think, Lori, that Dr. Reich is suffering from physical nausea. I think he is just offering it up as a term of tongue-in-cheek wariness. The man obviously has so much knowledge running around in his brain that he HAS to put it out to the world, and we his readers, and all else who happen upon it, are the lucky benefactors!
Maybe not Klare. But nausea—especially on waking— is something many people experience with disrupted sleep and a heightened stress response, especially when the circumstances they’re experiencing feel surreal.
I guess we’re both entitled to our own opinions. I just wanted to express my care and concern.
Not quite. "Gratuitous" is entirely the wrong word. Methinks the writer in their effusve, highfalutin, and endearing hilarious eloquence overdressed "grateful."
It is better than nothing. Unless there is some authority that is yet undiscovered, to enforce tRUMP's and Musk's ouster, along with policing the mob that supports them. Ridding Congress of all those election deniers would go a long way, too.
I doubt that he will be deported but he must be “fired” by congress as he has no authority, and is a rogue agent. Also, if and when the Congress comes to its senses and/or the Democrats are in control, they must nullify Citizens United, and Presidential Immunity. Two of the worst decisions made by the Supreme Court. Also let’s pass a new voting right’s law and get rid of the electoral college so we have a true democracy.
It should be an interesting call with Tesla stockholders. 95% of Germans will not buy one. Europeans who want an EV will buy another brand because of Musk's Nazi salutes and dodgie DOGE. Tree huggers and progressives like myself wouldn't buy one if it was a dollar and the last car on Earth. Conservatives don't want EV's because climate change is a UN conspiracy hoax. The secondary market is flooded with Teslas. One auto analyst said he's never seen such a major fall by an automaker.
On top of all this freefall, yesterday the Cybertruck had a major recall. ALL of the trucks were recalled. Just wait for the photos with lots filled with Cybertrucks waiting to get fixed.
Then we have the pie in the sky that is SpaceX. More Americans will start to understand that living without gravity is impossible. Clearly, going to Mars is a major scam.
#TeslaTakedown is a real group that's organizing protests.
Hopefully they will come to their senses sooner rather than later. Hoping to see Muskrat fall off his high pony soon! He should have his citizenship revoked (obtained in 2002) and be deported to So. Africa, no ifs, ands or buts. In some ways he’s loonier than the idjit taking up space in the people’s White House.
Musk's 13 children are American citizens by birth. If Musk is deported, he will leave them without legal support economically. That would bot be fair to them. They are innocent in all of this and must not be put in a situation that is unAmerican in intent.
We barely have enough water to sustain the American southwest. How in the hell are we gonna bring enough water to Mars to terraform? And even with the theory that Mars has enough frozen water in its surface, can you imagine the amount of energy needed to turn that into liquid water? If you’ve ever watched or read Carl Sagan people would know better. The average temperature on Mars is -81°F and gravity is 38% of what it is on earth! Toxic chemicals in the soil, thin atmosphere, radiation, oh man the list just keeps going on here. Here’s a cool article about how we are nowhere near having the technology needed to terraform Mars. You could only survive in enclosed structures on the surface or below the ground to stay warm.
Thanks Eileen. The whole manned space program, the space station, Moon and Mars trips really provide no new or usable science that cannot be obtained by unmanned satellites or rovers. It is just a big welfare program for the military industrial companies. Billions to be saved by shutting these programs down. Cheers... GH
Anyone who placed a million dollars in puts on Tesla stock back in December would have taken over the title of 'world's richest person' from poor faelon by now.
Interestingly, the last time I was in Norway, there were Tesla’s everywhere. Norway has 50% of its population driving hybrid or electric cars. The highest in the world the last time I looked. It will be interesting to see if that is still the case when I go again.
Thanks Danny. It is so sad that the founders of Tesla, not Musk, were trying to do the right thing. The Twitter founders too, and their companies have been
Agree. Today, mukz is inserting his millions into the Wisconsin Supreme Court fray between candidates Susan Crawford (D) and Brad Schimel (trumpist). To consolidate the power of the judiciary with the executive is the next higher goal of this illegal foreign asset. All of his illegal domestic assets ought to be seized and impounded.
Musk must be held accountable for his actions and decisions. What he has done/is dong is inexcusable, illegal, and unnecessary. The questions concerning the legality of his citizenship needs answers.
The other points you made are right on target; they have weakened our democracy and it must be strengthened so that another wannabe dictator won't be tempted.
I would add getting rid of the Party political system .All of them are corrupt in one way or another and there is too much money involved to have a hope of them cleaning up their act They are all too divisive with sharp elbows. The Party system is what got is into our present mess, i.e. a third Party candidate garnered votes that would have gone to Harris. Trump won by a skimpy 1.5% margin. 36% of registered voters did not caste a ballot and 68% of the eligible voters who voted did not vote for Trump. We need a system thar eliminates all candidates in some way nationally so there are only two top favorites on the ballot.
Hear, hear. I agree on the notion of getting rid of parties (everyone votes as a matter of conscious not dogma) and getting money out of the system. The USA for all its pretences to have been the greatest democracy on the planet is remarkably one of the hardest places to vote (as a former democracy). The ridiculous and antiquated electoral college system needs binned: one-person-one-vote. All voting should be mandatory, if you are at the age of majority it is your civic duty to vote (people died to protect that). Trump, Musk and Vance should be tried for treason (with the full aim to execute them if found guilty) and there needs to be a major programme of de-radicalisation for all the Nazis that will be left and MAGA has be designated an extremist/terrorist/proscribed organisation .
I kinda agree with some of your points. I'm not into killing anyone for any reason. The 10 Commandments are meaningful to me.
Trump nd Vance have dishonored their oath of office as well as broken it and that has consequences that are constitutional. Musk has violated his citizenship oath and that also has legal consequences.
I don't think voting should be mandatory however I do think those who enjoy the rights and fredoms should also be held accountable but I haven't a clue on how to do that. Perhaps they could lose the privilege after a certain time of not using it. I have lived outside the USA for number of years and have come to look at our voting system as willfully complicated and not always effective, It jus doesn't do what it is supposed to do in certain respects,
Also, de-radicalizing is treading on someone's right to believe differently. We can't go around monitoring and penalizing others because we disagree with them. I am a 1st amendment absolutists by choice.
I can respect your views, especially on the de-radicalisation part. Whilst I say that I am not sure what that looks like, but I do know that once this regime is gone the US will be left with a significant pool of highly dangerous people (as in committed to their Nazi cause), in much the same way as post-war Germany and Italy faced. I definitely agree on your notion of term-limit, there's a minimum age limit for president there should be a maximum age limit on the presidency and all other roles, that along with term limits (8 years for presidency, perhaps the same for other roles) would ensure a better turn-over of fresh-blood/new ideas. For some roles (representatives, senators, governors, presidents) life-time ban on working for certain companies to try a limit the influence these organisation can exert.
To be honest, I've no better idea than anyone else. The only thing that I am utterly certain on is this problem(s) will take generations to resolve. This coup is the end result of 40+ years of 'planning'/'plotting' it will take generations to resolve however that is achieved.
A sane Executive Branch must freeze all its contracts with SpaceX and Starlink and refuse to give them another penny of taxpayer money unless and until Musk divests himself of all of his holdings in those companies and permanently resigns from any employment and/or leadership position in those companies. Without all that taxpayer money flowing into his pockets, he would be far less powerful. Also, a criminal investigation is in order for numerous possible federal offenses.
And today, March 21, Musk is at the Pentagon, supposedly talking about strategic moves in case China attacks us! Why does he get permission to do that? I'm just nauseous, I can't find the optimism.
I agree. I guess the “saying” is true … “He who has the money has the power.” (Mostly because of his conflict-of-interest” contracts with the Federal government and OUR tax dollars!?)
Never! Don’t stop fighting and if you can’t, then just survive and outlast these idiots. Even if you’re the only one in the room holding firm, you can be that safe person for the next person to talk to. There are millions of working class Americans that would protest and fight if they had the extra time and means and energy. If you have the privilege to take care of yourself and have the extra time to go to a protest or call your representatives or write postcards or get involved with your local politics, canvassing and registering people to vote that is great. We are the leaders we are looking for even if we are sometimes the only person in the room to keep the light on!
Thanks Eileen. Coming home from lunch today there are at least 200 protesters along the street at our local library. About twice the number from last week. It is sunny, 58d and windy and chilly today in SW Illinois. Most of the folks appear to be over 50 and probably retired but there were some younger people with their kids. Several folks had Ukrainian flags. I'm just getting over a bad cold or would be there too. Will join them next week! Cheers to them... GH
Professor Reich: so ... agent orange is calling for the impeachment of judge boasberg for not letting him have his way, but NO ONE is demanding agent orange's impeachment for being a flaming traitor to the US constitution? my mind boggles.
anywho ... i am surprised that agent orange claims he will obey the rule of law when, in the past he clearly has not. so his assertions are merely lip service to satisfy his oligarchic owners. nothing more. i expect he'll be following his own narcissistic trajectory of destruction soon enough.
was anyone else out there surprised when chief injustice roberts finally awakened from his torpor to slap agent orange around (a bit) for his lawlessness? i wonder what happened behind the scenes to motivate that? i sure wish i could have been a fly on the wall for that argument.
and i also wonder why ameriKKKan businesses are so happy about supporting the dismantling of the department of education? how will these businesses function if they have no educated workforce to rely upon to invent new things, to fix existing things, and who cannot even read the written word on dangerous things and thereby avoid chopping off various body parts?
The 1985 case in Illinois is instructive. Film Recovery Systems of Elk Grove, IL, specifically hired Polish workers who could not read English to work with "the chemical" (which in fact was sodium cyanide) in extracting silver from old x-ray film. Many workers had symptoms of cyanide poisoning and one man died. The plant had no cyanide treatment kits on site. Three managers from the foreman to an executive were ultimately convicted of manslaughter and given 25 year prison sentences. So how will businesses deal with an uneducated workforce? They will exploit them in the future just as they did 40 years ago.
Feb. article from Wapo on the "deadliest workplace in America", the Phenix, AL sawmill with the highest per capita fatality rate in the US.
The mega-rich owner simply defies OSHA and pays the fines as production keeps rolling, and body parts keep dropping. This scenario is likely to replicate nationwide as drump's deregulatory crime spree intensifies.
Profits reward efficiency, and efficiency demands the utmost exploitation of human labor. Silicon Valley entrepreneurs are enthusiastic promoters of AI, because it would make human labor unnecessary. From their point of view most of humankind is a waste of resources.
Yes, Doug. The billionaire cartel that elected Trump is leading a crusade against all of humanity, including fellow Americans. JD Vance made it clear that if Trump is gone he will serve them faithfully (sarcasm intended). Vance, Musk, Zuck are recent additions to the cartel, which consists mostly of old billionaires. These billionaires care not about climate change, pandemics, the suffering of others. They are nevertheless aware that if Trump destroys the judiciary any one of them could become a hopeless victim of his capriciousness and vindictiveness. They may remove him before that happens, but their war on humankind will proceed uninterrupted as long as they live.
Exactly! Businesses [excluding sweatshops] evaluate the workforce in places where they want to locate their operations — if they cannot recruit literate and qualified personnel, they go somewhere else …
You are right, orange menace pays lip service to the rule of law in deference to his oligarch backers but wait a bit until they consolidate their financial power, then for him to unleash full fury on the judicial branch, the last bastion of restraint to executive power. He will flip as quickly as a gust of wind over a sullen ocean.
“I never defied a court order” said he. Cough cough. Except that time he kept classified documents in the face of a warrant. Over and over and over again. “I never defied a court order said he.” Cough cough. Except of course if you consider a gag order an order. Then, he defied the court over and over and over. The number of times any other person could have done the same is exactly zero. There are plenty of examples of those who were treated worse and held accountable more. Sigh ….
And the flights to El Salvador that were not turned around as Judge Boasberg ordered, and the one that took off after the judge issued his order ... oh wait, that was ICE, not Trump, so apparently it doesn't count ...
The billionaires hoped for another Calvin Coolidge. They got a Nero instead. This is what Nikki Halley (and Democrats, of course) warned about, but voters paid no heed to her. Will they risk another free election?
Is it possible at some level in his very damaged self he knows his actions are wrong? At the least, he knows others think his actions are wrong, and he seeks approval. Just guessing.
Donald Trump‘s rampage through the federal government bureaucracy reminds me that when I was a 10-year-old in Disneyland I went on a ride called “Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride.” It was a crazy scary ride, but like all such rides, it eventually came to an end.
Another good sign are the massive demonstrations being organized on April 5 at over 330 cities in the United States. It reminds me of the beginnings of the mobilization to end the war in Vietnam. It started small, but it did eventually end the war and two presidencies.
Yes, I can't wait to participate in a demonstration on April 5th. It's been 61 years since I participated in a demonstration to end the war in Vietnam as a college freshman at UCB. These demonstrations ARE effective and were 61 years ago!! We can do this!!
Canadian here. Yes, you ca do this. There is a lot of nausea on both sides of the border. My govt is taking tough and rational steps to resist trump's insane threats - for that I am thankful. I have also come to welcome and appreciate that the American people are taking a stand. We are the same folks at heart - decent, caring and want to live in a "decent" peaceful society. It is now the "people's fight" and when enough decent Americans say enough is enough, you will win. As to the magats and republicans in congress - they will forever have to hide their faces in disgrace or behind bars.
Why Murdoch is, for now, cautioning Trump to heed the courts is kind of curious, isn't it? But as you say, Mr. Reich, relying on Murdoch's advice to Trump to save our democracy is no cause for celebration. Shouldn't the officials we elected provide that bulwark?
When a distinct majority of Americans disapprove of this regime, organise them. Start a new political party in every city and village. Call it the Thomas Paine party. (or whatever)
In some weeks there can be a program and a believable support for the ruined judiciary and educational system.
Build the party with voluntary contributions of max 1000 dollars.
Prepare the new party to take over; and speak out a loud civilian voice about the system: what is wrong with the electoral system, the power of big money in the media.
Countervailing powers are central in liberal thought.
This would be a years-long endeavor — Something to be taken on when we are not under siege by an autocratic would-be regime. We need to work with what we already have to stop Trump. We have Constitutional Rights and courts and hopefully the loyalty of our police and military ranks not to follow the oligarchs illegal orders, though the behavior of ICE and those taking orders from Musk is not encouraging at the moment.. Creating a multi-party system [with more than two] is a great aim, but it’s not going to save this democracy if we have to wait for that to happen.
I guess every fight back has to start somewhere - even if it's in the Murdoch-owned press.
History tells us that often extremism isn't brought down by the opposition, since this engenders more extremism to fight off the challenge, but losing support from within.
I agree the courts are one of the only bulwarks left, along with the actual employees in the buildings locking the doors against DOGE, and it has been holding spectacularly.
So I wonder how a government shutdown, which would have immediately removed both those guards, giving full discretion for essential services/personnel to Johnson and allowing indefinite furloughs and agency closures could possibly be considered to be the preferred choice?
The assumption seems to be that a shutdown last Friday would have resulted in further negotiations, but wouldn’t that rely on Johnson’s goodwill to keep the shutdown brief and bring back everyone quickly? Something I think is unreasonable to assume.
I am shocked that so many are calling for Schumer’s resignation because of this, perhaps I’m missing something?
What They are missing, not you, is Shumer’s detailed description of why his was the better of the two available choices. A government shutdown essentially gives the regime complete freedom to do anything they want. The regime decides when a new bill can be written, if at all. They decide when the shutdown is over, and what gets paid out for the duration. While we sit here, they destroy everything. They then buy up and privatize services so they make endless money at our expense.
What gets to me is the cavalier attitude with which they literally ruin peoples’ lives and scarf up private data for who knows what purpose. The sheer arrogance they display is frightening, because
it’s clear now, they don’t have any idea what
they’re looking at, but they blithely fire people and shut down funding without any rhyme or reason.
It’s so irresponsible that it’s hard to believe. It’s also
extremely disrespectful. They have the nerve to
call social sec. & medicare “entitlements” when
we paid into those social sec. trust funds with our own money for 3 or 4 decades.
That's true, Susan, and it is so embarrassing! I keep telling my friends in other countries, that orange smear is not speaking for me! He does not represent me! He is NOT my president!
We must stop giving the don too much credit. He's a shell, as shill, a performer in clear stages of dementia. Its the people behind him making the machinery grind up the democracy and scatter it to the wind. The chambermaids for all of this are the idiots in Congress, predominantly republicans, but also Demcorats who think this is a "take two political aspirin" ailment and it will be better tomorrow. I fear this year's MAY DAY celebrations will be a jointly honored event in Moscow and Washington.
This is off-subject, but good Lord, Trump is nothing but a performer. I was appalled at the setup he had with all those children pretending to sign their names to end the Department of Education. That was so over the top that it made me nauseous. Trump has taken the office of the Presidency to extremely low levels.
Take care! All who see what is going on at least the ones with eyes, ears and common sense will overcome this attempt towards fascism. When the savings like the shutting down the Department of ED, Medicaid and ... the full burden gets passed back to the states and taxes go up for everybody, then the MAGA will understand robbing Peter to pay Paul isn't helping their pocket. I believe We the People will demand a stop. See it coming, pray it stays peaceful. We need Congress to impeach, let them hear you!
Trump hasn't formally withdrawn America from the North Atlantic Treaty. He's just decided to ignore America's obligations under that treaty, much as he's ignoring the US Constitution.
But Democrats have got to step in and say or do something! I’ve been a democrat all my adult life; now I’m unaffiliated. And I’ve never really been into politics, but as I’ve gotten older, now I appreciate how my mom felt when she was only receiving her Social Security and Medicare; Im retired and get my civil service retirement, plus Medicare so I’m lucky- I know that. I feel badly for the elderly who are struggling financially because they’re only getting the bare minimum of Social Security, and Medicare-Medicaid or disability benefits, They don’t deserve having that cut off, which, is THEIR money they have worked hard for! I’ve asked this question here before but get no response: As a former federal employee, where I worked in the Social Security Administration then went to work at the Department of Labor (I’m proud to say part of that time at DOL, while Robert Reich was the Secretary of Labor), I ask:
Where are the former presidents/Vice Presidents I worked under when I worked for the Department of Labor-Clinton, Bush, (yes, Bush- a Republican-I know he’s not a Trump fan), Obama, Biden, VP Harris? Haven’t heard or seen any of them, except for maybe a couple of things from Biden. Surely they have a voice? Are they not allowed to speak out against this corrupt administration?!
I am sick and tired of all of this bs, as we all are! But still nauseously optimistic. Thank you Mr. Reich.
Shelley, if I understand it correctly, the musk-rat has convinced the maga lunatics that Social Security is a ponzi scheme! I hear a lot of the magas around me repeating his words. I am quick to point out that Social Security is, if anything, a giant savings account that we paid into our entire working life! We draw out our money monthly from our savings account. I do not know why the former presidents and vice-presidents are not speaking out. I wish they would.
I totally agree and have been saying this and commenting in every substack - where are they! They should be willing and able to speak out against this obvious attack on democracy, free speech and this administration ignoring the constitution and aiding and abetting the enemy while abandoning and punishing our allies.
Professor Reich, I worry that a lack of sleep, combined with your prolific output— for which I am extremely grateful, thank you—contribute to the nausea. I'm sure I speak for all of your readers when I say please take best care of yourself.
Everyone needs a day or two off. I suggest that on Fridays you post another writer's work on a topic you think is important and didn't get the attention deserved.
For example, re-stack a story by Hearher Cox Richardson and make a comment. Perhaps post some comedy clips from the Daily show or late night TV. Perhaps post a speech or interview by Bernie.
Do something easy on Friday. Start your weekend early. Then move the Saturday CC to Sunday. Then you've got a two day weekend.
7 days a week is too much work for anyone. You're making the French look lazy. But maybe they protest more because they are not so tired from working all the time. ;-)
Yes! Remember self care! I’m a retired therapist who has learned firsthand that the airplane oxygen mask cliche is a cliche for a reason. We can only resist and persist if we survive. Humor helps me. Eric Zorn has a great substack and his current “quip madness” competition made me laugh out loud. Here’s one of my favorites:
I was on a sofa next to my wife who was eating a snack and typing on her phone, I heard my phone ping in the kitchen where it was charging, so I went to check it, The text was from my wife. She’d written, "Bring me a drink on your way back.” — @dadgivesjokes
https://ericzorn.substack.com/p/its-madness-i-tell-you-madness?open=false#%C2%A7quip-madness-begins
Made me laugh
Excellent!without music and humour life would be very sad
She's too smart!
Unsurvivable! Plus, for me, prayer and meditation.
Fabulous ideas Danny, I'm with you. Not because I don't value your input, Professor Reich —because it truly is invaluable— but because I worry how sustainable this level of input will be over the months and years ahead. We never want to find that you've pulled back because your health has dictated it.
I eagerly look forward to all of your Substack posts. But I also hope that you take good care of yourself. When Trump and Musk are finally thrown in the dumpster of history, we want you and Heather Lofthouse to lead the parade of celebration.
Lovely idea! Though I think HCR's Substack (deservedly) gets plenty of eyes. A few others I highly recommend are Jessica Yellin's News Not Noise, Jay Kuo's The Status Kuo (I highly recommend his recent "Bogeymen and Trojan Horses: How to identify and call out Trump and Musk’s fascist tactics," which is on The Big Picture Substack), and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar's fantastic weekly Substack.
Only problem with Sunday is, it would collide with MTN's Sunday coffee session.
Democrats are in need of a Leader.
I nominate Robert Reich.
Why?—don’t you think he has enough on his plate Clayton? (That was a joke btw, not a reprimand.)
Thanks.
I've been following RR since TR☭MP first got elected in 2016.
IMHO, He seems to be the only one with the knowledge, skills and abilities to bring our Party together and he knows how to stand up to the G☭P.
Clayton, you are right. Professor Reich is always spot on with his posts on what is happening. Whoever our leader is, it will be no small task helping magas get over their orange leader! When I speak to them, they always spew whatever lie is being promoted at the moment; however, one recurring theme I get from them is there is way too much unnecessary spending in our government! There are always going to be those that scam the system, that lie, cheat and steal from departments and programs. It is my opinion that once we rid ourselves of the orange smear and all of the other traitors, we put back our departments and programs only this time, not only would we use watch dogs but also require a once a year audit of each department and program by outside auditors. Knowing that someone will be keeping an eye on spending but also knowing that every year you have to account for everything your department or program has done. There should also be within each department, a section that is solely for the purpose of reviewing every applicant to programs offered and following up on questionable applicants. That way the government will be seen as efficient as possible which is what the magas want. Whoever our leader is should message that to everybody.
Peggy, as far as I know, the governmental departments are audited, well except for the Pentagon which has never passed any kind of audit. I am guessing the fraud is there if it is anywhere. The MAGAs like to whine about fraud. I think it's a word that feels good in their mouths even though they have no idea what or where it is. They want reduced spending on all the programs they have no contact with or that don't impact them. Heck, a few years ago, in one of those "person on the street" interviews, I heard two separate people say that the government should stay out of their Social Security. They were in different places so had no contact. Where did they think Social Security came from? On purpose, the MAGAs are not smart about politics, their lives, and so many of the things that really are important in their lives. They could wake up and maybe start with looking up the word "tariff" in a dictionary. Then they could expand by turning off Fox Not Nearly News. Who knows what might happen after that!
Well said, Ruth!
Nice guy, great friend, lovely sentiments, altruistic, but not the street fighter needed in these perilous (end of day) times. We need street fighters like Bernie, but he is too old, like AOC hampered because she is a woman and Hispanic (tain't right, but tis reality)
Senators and representatives don't make good presidents or leaders, they are raised on the art of compromise, comity,not conflict and confrontation, and for those that are allergic to hard leadership. Do no more than take a look at the foe. It has worked for them, has it not?
Yes, we need you. I am a daily reader, but this might be a 200 year war and we need you alive and well for 200 years.
Agree. We don't want him to get sick on us. I know the feeling of nausea and many no sleep nights.
I read the first part of your seven part series it is well written, easy to follow, and beneficial information. Focusing on breathing helps to still mind-chatter that is essential to leave the alpha state when meditating. Centering is more of a grounding state of consciousness. I use both techniques depending on the situation. Centering is more useful in daily life as it does not require inactivity, per se. Thank you for sharing this useful and vital destressing technique in these difficult times.
Reaching out to others and sharing brings us all closer together so that our differences are merely expressions of our diversity. The GOP/Trump/MAGA wants to divide us so that we each feel cold and alone. As Bishop Budde said in the sermon, mercy and compassion unifies us, giving us a warm sense of togetherness, especially needed in times luje these.
You’re welcome Surya-Patricia.
I really don't think, Lori, that Dr. Reich is suffering from physical nausea. I think he is just offering it up as a term of tongue-in-cheek wariness. The man obviously has so much knowledge running around in his brain that he HAS to put it out to the world, and we his readers, and all else who happen upon it, are the lucky benefactors!
Maybe not Klare. But nausea—especially on waking— is something many people experience with disrupted sleep and a heightened stress response, especially when the circumstances they’re experiencing feel surreal.
I guess we’re both entitled to our own opinions. I just wanted to express my care and concern.
Many thanks.
Liked, but blimey, that was difficult to decipher.
haven't heard or seen 'blimey' in years-perhaps not since 'mary poppins'-a good word
Perfectly stated! Thanks for my first chuckle of the day.
Not quite. "Gratuitous" is entirely the wrong word. Methinks the writer in their effusve, highfalutin, and endearing hilarious eloquence overdressed "grateful."
Agree!
I think it is funny!
Nice post. But it was like readifying the textificity of a speechification by George W. Bush.
Good one!
Perfectly assessedily!!
My goodness! Is that you, George W. Bush?
and misconscrewed what He was saying ~ (GWB that is )
We might defy the Trumpster mob, but best not take on the O.E.D
OMG, thanks for the laughs.
Braavvhoe!
Funny. I hope it’s not sarcasm?
What is Ozian? No offense taken at the mockery of my name. I often fail to spell it correctly and refuse to share the pronunciation.
You’re too cunning for me. I thought Oz was Australian. 🥸
and a dialect of "Munschkinism" ~
And the Webster Award for most-est and best-est words new for this moment, goes to Seldom Seen!!! Adulatorious praisement to you!!!
That's disrespectification or disrespectifying, sir.
I’ve been sick to my stomach for weeks now, so I guess that if I can combine nauseousness with optimism, that conceivably might be a good thing.
But then, depending upon the courts for salvation still seems a thin reed to me.
It is better than nothing. Unless there is some authority that is yet undiscovered, to enforce tRUMP's and Musk's ouster, along with policing the mob that supports them. Ridding Congress of all those election deniers would go a long way, too.
Wouldn’t that be wonderful, Laurie.
Yes, it would help if we can clean house, and the DOJ, and the Courts . Also the Oval office
Generally stopping the bullshit.
Now Musk is bribing members of the house to impeach these judges. This man is a menace and must be deported or jailed as soon as Trump is gone.
I doubt that he will be deported but he must be “fired” by congress as he has no authority, and is a rogue agent. Also, if and when the Congress comes to its senses and/or the Democrats are in control, they must nullify Citizens United, and Presidential Immunity. Two of the worst decisions made by the Supreme Court. Also let’s pass a new voting right’s law and get rid of the electoral college so we have a true democracy.
It should be an interesting call with Tesla stockholders. 95% of Germans will not buy one. Europeans who want an EV will buy another brand because of Musk's Nazi salutes and dodgie DOGE. Tree huggers and progressives like myself wouldn't buy one if it was a dollar and the last car on Earth. Conservatives don't want EV's because climate change is a UN conspiracy hoax. The secondary market is flooded with Teslas. One auto analyst said he's never seen such a major fall by an automaker.
On top of all this freefall, yesterday the Cybertruck had a major recall. ALL of the trucks were recalled. Just wait for the photos with lots filled with Cybertrucks waiting to get fixed.
Then we have the pie in the sky that is SpaceX. More Americans will start to understand that living without gravity is impossible. Clearly, going to Mars is a major scam.
#TeslaTakedown is a real group that's organizing protests.
#BoycottTesla
#BoycottX
#XoutSpaceX
I'm wondering how much longer the Tesla board, lenders, and stockholders are going to put up with him.
Hopefully they will come to their senses sooner rather than later. Hoping to see Muskrat fall off his high pony soon! He should have his citizenship revoked (obtained in 2002) and be deported to So. Africa, no ifs, ands or buts. In some ways he’s loonier than the idjit taking up space in the people’s White House.
Musk's 13 children are American citizens by birth. If Musk is deported, he will leave them without legal support economically. That would bot be fair to them. They are innocent in all of this and must not be put in a situation that is unAmerican in intent.
Not my problem, he can take his kids and all his concubines with him.
No doubt Ford, GM, BMW etc are laughing their heads off. A major competitor trashing itself. I don't think I've heard of it in any industry before.
We barely have enough water to sustain the American southwest. How in the hell are we gonna bring enough water to Mars to terraform? And even with the theory that Mars has enough frozen water in its surface, can you imagine the amount of energy needed to turn that into liquid water? If you’ve ever watched or read Carl Sagan people would know better. The average temperature on Mars is -81°F and gravity is 38% of what it is on earth! Toxic chemicals in the soil, thin atmosphere, radiation, oh man the list just keeps going on here. Here’s a cool article about how we are nowhere near having the technology needed to terraform Mars. You could only survive in enclosed structures on the surface or below the ground to stay warm.
https://www.planetary.org/video/can-we-actually-terraform-mars#:~:text=In%20short%2C%20it%20seems%20highly,give%20them%20air%20to%20breathe.
Thanks Eileen. The whole manned space program, the space station, Moon and Mars trips really provide no new or usable science that cannot be obtained by unmanned satellites or rovers. It is just a big welfare program for the military industrial companies. Billions to be saved by shutting these programs down. Cheers... GH
The bigger they come. .
Yep, that's what happens when a business is built around the cult of personality, and the main man goes AWOL.
Anyone who placed a million dollars in puts on Tesla stock back in December would have taken over the title of 'world's richest person' from poor faelon by now.
Interestingly, the last time I was in Norway, there were Tesla’s everywhere. Norway has 50% of its population driving hybrid or electric cars. The highest in the world the last time I looked. It will be interesting to see if that is still the case when I go again.
Thanks Danny. It is so sad that the founders of Tesla, not Musk, were trying to do the right thing. The Twitter founders too, and their companies have been
taken over by a mad man. Just saying... GH
Agree. Today, mukz is inserting his millions into the Wisconsin Supreme Court fray between candidates Susan Crawford (D) and Brad Schimel (trumpist). To consolidate the power of the judiciary with the executive is the next higher goal of this illegal foreign asset. All of his illegal domestic assets ought to be seized and impounded.
Yes! Yes! Yes!
I'd say, just do it, as soon as we can.
Musk must be held accountable for his actions and decisions. What he has done/is dong is inexcusable, illegal, and unnecessary. The questions concerning the legality of his citizenship needs answers.
The other points you made are right on target; they have weakened our democracy and it must be strengthened so that another wannabe dictator won't be tempted.
I would add getting rid of the Party political system .All of them are corrupt in one way or another and there is too much money involved to have a hope of them cleaning up their act They are all too divisive with sharp elbows. The Party system is what got is into our present mess, i.e. a third Party candidate garnered votes that would have gone to Harris. Trump won by a skimpy 1.5% margin. 36% of registered voters did not caste a ballot and 68% of the eligible voters who voted did not vote for Trump. We need a system thar eliminates all candidates in some way nationally so there are only two top favorites on the ballot.
Hear, hear. I agree on the notion of getting rid of parties (everyone votes as a matter of conscious not dogma) and getting money out of the system. The USA for all its pretences to have been the greatest democracy on the planet is remarkably one of the hardest places to vote (as a former democracy). The ridiculous and antiquated electoral college system needs binned: one-person-one-vote. All voting should be mandatory, if you are at the age of majority it is your civic duty to vote (people died to protect that). Trump, Musk and Vance should be tried for treason (with the full aim to execute them if found guilty) and there needs to be a major programme of de-radicalisation for all the Nazis that will be left and MAGA has be designated an extremist/terrorist/proscribed organisation .
I kinda agree with some of your points. I'm not into killing anyone for any reason. The 10 Commandments are meaningful to me.
Trump nd Vance have dishonored their oath of office as well as broken it and that has consequences that are constitutional. Musk has violated his citizenship oath and that also has legal consequences.
I don't think voting should be mandatory however I do think those who enjoy the rights and fredoms should also be held accountable but I haven't a clue on how to do that. Perhaps they could lose the privilege after a certain time of not using it. I have lived outside the USA for number of years and have come to look at our voting system as willfully complicated and not always effective, It jus doesn't do what it is supposed to do in certain respects,
Also, de-radicalizing is treading on someone's right to believe differently. We can't go around monitoring and penalizing others because we disagree with them. I am a 1st amendment absolutists by choice.
I can respect your views, especially on the de-radicalisation part. Whilst I say that I am not sure what that looks like, but I do know that once this regime is gone the US will be left with a significant pool of highly dangerous people (as in committed to their Nazi cause), in much the same way as post-war Germany and Italy faced. I definitely agree on your notion of term-limit, there's a minimum age limit for president there should be a maximum age limit on the presidency and all other roles, that along with term limits (8 years for presidency, perhaps the same for other roles) would ensure a better turn-over of fresh-blood/new ideas. For some roles (representatives, senators, governors, presidents) life-time ban on working for certain companies to try a limit the influence these organisation can exert.
To be honest, I've no better idea than anyone else. The only thing that I am utterly certain on is this problem(s) will take generations to resolve. This coup is the end result of 40+ years of 'planning'/'plotting' it will take generations to resolve however that is achieved.
I agree with all of the above, Carol.
A sane Executive Branch must freeze all its contracts with SpaceX and Starlink and refuse to give them another penny of taxpayer money unless and until Musk divests himself of all of his holdings in those companies and permanently resigns from any employment and/or leadership position in those companies. Without all that taxpayer money flowing into his pockets, he would be far less powerful. Also, a criminal investigation is in order for numerous possible federal offenses.
Amen!
Canada doesn’t want him.
And today, March 21, Musk is at the Pentagon, supposedly talking about strategic moves in case China attacks us! Why does he get permission to do that? I'm just nauseous, I can't find the optimism.
I agree. I guess the “saying” is true … “He who has the money has the power.” (Mostly because of his conflict-of-interest” contracts with the Federal government and OUR tax dollars!?)
Oh to be normal again in America
Keith, I would be so happy to return to normal! Maybe then I could sleep well and pursue interests other than having to fight every single day!
It’s been so long that I am starting to think this is normal now.
Never! Don’t stop fighting and if you can’t, then just survive and outlast these idiots. Even if you’re the only one in the room holding firm, you can be that safe person for the next person to talk to. There are millions of working class Americans that would protest and fight if they had the extra time and means and energy. If you have the privilege to take care of yourself and have the extra time to go to a protest or call your representatives or write postcards or get involved with your local politics, canvassing and registering people to vote that is great. We are the leaders we are looking for even if we are sometimes the only person in the room to keep the light on!
Thanks Eileen. Coming home from lunch today there are at least 200 protesters along the street at our local library. About twice the number from last week. It is sunny, 58d and windy and chilly today in SW Illinois. Most of the folks appear to be over 50 and probably retired but there were some younger people with their kids. Several folks had Ukrainian flags. I'm just getting over a bad cold or would be there too. Will join them next week! Cheers to them... GH
Thank you Eileen G.
One way to help is to notify local media of upcoming events.
Here is a suggestion for a simple email press release that anyone can send to publicize the anti-Trump events on April 5:
×÷÷×÷×÷×××××
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
A protest rally will be held at Middletown City Hall on Saturday April 5 at noon.
It is sponsored by the Middletown Women's March.
The event is to protest Donald Trump's policies that threaten free speech.
From: Janet Doe
Phone: 666-666-6666
Email:
Janet@fmail.com
××××÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷
Advertising agencies charge up to $1500 to do a single press release
publicizing an upcoming event. We can do it for free.
Unfortunately
There is no normal to go back to since Covid- we have to stop thinking about that, never gonna happen. Survival is the name of the game now
Oh to be normal would never feel abnormal again in America, thanks, Keith!
Professor Reich: so ... agent orange is calling for the impeachment of judge boasberg for not letting him have his way, but NO ONE is demanding agent orange's impeachment for being a flaming traitor to the US constitution? my mind boggles.
anywho ... i am surprised that agent orange claims he will obey the rule of law when, in the past he clearly has not. so his assertions are merely lip service to satisfy his oligarchic owners. nothing more. i expect he'll be following his own narcissistic trajectory of destruction soon enough.
was anyone else out there surprised when chief injustice roberts finally awakened from his torpor to slap agent orange around (a bit) for his lawlessness? i wonder what happened behind the scenes to motivate that? i sure wish i could have been a fly on the wall for that argument.
and i also wonder why ameriKKKan businesses are so happy about supporting the dismantling of the department of education? how will these businesses function if they have no educated workforce to rely upon to invent new things, to fix existing things, and who cannot even read the written word on dangerous things and thereby avoid chopping off various body parts?
The 1985 case in Illinois is instructive. Film Recovery Systems of Elk Grove, IL, specifically hired Polish workers who could not read English to work with "the chemical" (which in fact was sodium cyanide) in extracting silver from old x-ray film. Many workers had symptoms of cyanide poisoning and one man died. The plant had no cyanide treatment kits on site. Three managers from the foreman to an executive were ultimately convicted of manslaughter and given 25 year prison sentences. So how will businesses deal with an uneducated workforce? They will exploit them in the future just as they did 40 years ago.
Feb. article from Wapo on the "deadliest workplace in America", the Phenix, AL sawmill with the highest per capita fatality rate in the US.
The mega-rich owner simply defies OSHA and pays the fines as production keeps rolling, and body parts keep dropping. This scenario is likely to replicate nationwide as drump's deregulatory crime spree intensifies.
https://www.washingtonpost.com/business/interactive/2025/osha-workplace-deaths-safety-sawmill/
Profits reward efficiency, and efficiency demands the utmost exploitation of human labor. Silicon Valley entrepreneurs are enthusiastic promoters of AI, because it would make human labor unnecessary. From their point of view most of humankind is a waste of resources.
This is such a cruel story!Doug
Yes, Doug. The billionaire cartel that elected Trump is leading a crusade against all of humanity, including fellow Americans. JD Vance made it clear that if Trump is gone he will serve them faithfully (sarcasm intended). Vance, Musk, Zuck are recent additions to the cartel, which consists mostly of old billionaires. These billionaires care not about climate change, pandemics, the suffering of others. They are nevertheless aware that if Trump destroys the judiciary any one of them could become a hopeless victim of his capriciousness and vindictiveness. They may remove him before that happens, but their war on humankind will proceed uninterrupted as long as they live.
We start with it and finish sucking at our gums.
Lol! :D
Exactly! Businesses [excluding sweatshops] evaluate the workforce in places where they want to locate their operations — if they cannot recruit literate and qualified personnel, they go somewhere else …
You are right, orange menace pays lip service to the rule of law in deference to his oligarch backers but wait a bit until they consolidate their financial power, then for him to unleash full fury on the judicial branch, the last bastion of restraint to executive power. He will flip as quickly as a gust of wind over a sullen ocean.
“I never defied a court order” said he. Cough cough. Except that time he kept classified documents in the face of a warrant. Over and over and over again. “I never defied a court order said he.” Cough cough. Except of course if you consider a gag order an order. Then, he defied the court over and over and over. The number of times any other person could have done the same is exactly zero. There are plenty of examples of those who were treated worse and held accountable more. Sigh ….
And the flights to El Salvador that were not turned around as Judge Boasberg ordered, and the one that took off after the judge issued his order ... oh wait, that was ICE, not Trump, so apparently it doesn't count ...
Plus Robert’s never said his name in his rebuke! He could have been talking about anyone! Maybe he meant Hillary!
Exactly
The billionaires hoped for another Calvin Coolidge. They got a Nero instead. This is what Nikki Halley (and Democrats, of course) warned about, but voters paid no heed to her. Will they risk another free election?
But then she supported him .... what do they get from wearing that "R" on their chest. I don't get it.
Is it possible at some level in his very damaged self he knows his actions are wrong? At the least, he knows others think his actions are wrong, and he seeks approval. Just guessing.
Donald Trump‘s rampage through the federal government bureaucracy reminds me that when I was a 10-year-old in Disneyland I went on a ride called “Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride.” It was a crazy scary ride, but like all such rides, it eventually came to an end.
Another good sign are the massive demonstrations being organized on April 5 at over 330 cities in the United States. It reminds me of the beginnings of the mobilization to end the war in Vietnam. It started small, but it did eventually end the war and two presidencies.
https://handsoff2025.com/
Yes, I can't wait to participate in a demonstration on April 5th. It's been 61 years since I participated in a demonstration to end the war in Vietnam as a college freshman at UCB. These demonstrations ARE effective and were 61 years ago!! We can do this!!
Canadian here. Yes, you ca do this. There is a lot of nausea on both sides of the border. My govt is taking tough and rational steps to resist trump's insane threats - for that I am thankful. I have also come to welcome and appreciate that the American people are taking a stand. We are the same folks at heart - decent, caring and want to live in a "decent" peaceful society. It is now the "people's fight" and when enough decent Americans say enough is enough, you will win. As to the magats and republicans in congress - they will forever have to hide their faces in disgrace or behind bars.
Thanks Marc. I remember "Mr. Toad's Wild Ride". We sure are on it and I can't wait for it to stop!
Why Murdoch is, for now, cautioning Trump to heed the courts is kind of curious, isn't it? But as you say, Mr. Reich, relying on Murdoch's advice to Trump to save our democracy is no cause for celebration. Shouldn't the officials we elected provide that bulwark?
Well said ! Spot On !
Still asking myself\; how difficult can it be?
When a distinct majority of Americans disapprove of this regime, organise them. Start a new political party in every city and village. Call it the Thomas Paine party. (or whatever)
In some weeks there can be a program and a believable support for the ruined judiciary and educational system.
Build the party with voluntary contributions of max 1000 dollars.
Prepare the new party to take over; and speak out a loud civilian voice about the system: what is wrong with the electoral system, the power of big money in the media.
Countervailing powers are central in liberal thought.
This would be a years-long endeavor — Something to be taken on when we are not under siege by an autocratic would-be regime. We need to work with what we already have to stop Trump. We have Constitutional Rights and courts and hopefully the loyalty of our police and military ranks not to follow the oligarchs illegal orders, though the behavior of ICE and those taking orders from Musk is not encouraging at the moment.. Creating a multi-party system [with more than two] is a great aim, but it’s not going to save this democracy if we have to wait for that to happen.
Pat, I agree with the second thoughts you have. I have asked for an emergency exit, or what is the way to get rid of this bunch of childish idiots.
But I still believe in the pragmatism, the united coöperation of the rational grown-ups in the US. So, try my line as well.
The courts seem to have not sufficient power to change the direction and demolition.
Or should we ask Putin for a way out?
Have at it!
I guess every fight back has to start somewhere - even if it's in the Murdoch-owned press.
History tells us that often extremism isn't brought down by the opposition, since this engenders more extremism to fight off the challenge, but losing support from within.
I agree the courts are one of the only bulwarks left, along with the actual employees in the buildings locking the doors against DOGE, and it has been holding spectacularly.
So I wonder how a government shutdown, which would have immediately removed both those guards, giving full discretion for essential services/personnel to Johnson and allowing indefinite furloughs and agency closures could possibly be considered to be the preferred choice?
The assumption seems to be that a shutdown last Friday would have resulted in further negotiations, but wouldn’t that rely on Johnson’s goodwill to keep the shutdown brief and bring back everyone quickly? Something I think is unreasonable to assume.
I am shocked that so many are calling for Schumer’s resignation because of this, perhaps I’m missing something?
What They are missing, not you, is Shumer’s detailed description of why his was the better of the two available choices. A government shutdown essentially gives the regime complete freedom to do anything they want. The regime decides when a new bill can be written, if at all. They decide when the shutdown is over, and what gets paid out for the duration. While we sit here, they destroy everything. They then buy up and privatize services so they make endless money at our expense.
What gets to me is the cavalier attitude with which they literally ruin peoples’ lives and scarf up private data for who knows what purpose. The sheer arrogance they display is frightening, because
it’s clear now, they don’t have any idea what
they’re looking at, but they blithely fire people and shut down funding without any rhyme or reason.
It’s so irresponsible that it’s hard to believe. It’s also
extremely disrespectful. They have the nerve to
call social sec. & medicare “entitlements” when
we paid into those social sec. trust funds with our own money for 3 or 4 decades.
They are the ones who think they’re entitled—
entitled to fire thousands of people, entitled to
our personal data, entitled to shut down gov’t
agencies that protect us, entitled to re-write
history, entitled to deliberately humiliate
a head of state humbly asking for help with a
war he didn’t start. That went over like a lead
balloon. It angered people Everything these
bozos do is in our name and reflects back on
us as a people.
That's true, Susan, and it is so embarrassing! I keep telling my friends in other countries, that orange smear is not speaking for me! He does not represent me! He is NOT my president!
We must stop giving the don too much credit. He's a shell, as shill, a performer in clear stages of dementia. Its the people behind him making the machinery grind up the democracy and scatter it to the wind. The chambermaids for all of this are the idiots in Congress, predominantly republicans, but also Demcorats who think this is a "take two political aspirin" ailment and it will be better tomorrow. I fear this year's MAY DAY celebrations will be a jointly honored event in Moscow and Washington.
This is off-subject, but good Lord, Trump is nothing but a performer. I was appalled at the setup he had with all those children pretending to sign their names to end the Department of Education. That was so over the top that it made me nauseous. Trump has taken the office of the Presidency to extremely low levels.
Take care! All who see what is going on at least the ones with eyes, ears and common sense will overcome this attempt towards fascism. When the savings like the shutting down the Department of ED, Medicaid and ... the full burden gets passed back to the states and taxes go up for everybody, then the MAGA will understand robbing Peter to pay Paul isn't helping their pocket. I believe We the People will demand a stop. See it coming, pray it stays peaceful. We need Congress to impeach, let them hear you!
Tonight The Guardian reports Republicans are PUSHING BACK on Trump’s pullout from NATO. Huzzah. Link to article below.
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/mar/20/defense-senate-house-republicans-nato?CMP=Share_iOSApp_Other
Trump hasn't formally withdrawn America from the North Atlantic Treaty. He's just decided to ignore America's obligations under that treaty, much as he's ignoring the US Constitution.
Hope springs eternal in the human breast. Unless you're a Republican, then there is no hope.
But Democrats have got to step in and say or do something! I’ve been a democrat all my adult life; now I’m unaffiliated. And I’ve never really been into politics, but as I’ve gotten older, now I appreciate how my mom felt when she was only receiving her Social Security and Medicare; Im retired and get my civil service retirement, plus Medicare so I’m lucky- I know that. I feel badly for the elderly who are struggling financially because they’re only getting the bare minimum of Social Security, and Medicare-Medicaid or disability benefits, They don’t deserve having that cut off, which, is THEIR money they have worked hard for! I’ve asked this question here before but get no response: As a former federal employee, where I worked in the Social Security Administration then went to work at the Department of Labor (I’m proud to say part of that time at DOL, while Robert Reich was the Secretary of Labor), I ask:
Where are the former presidents/Vice Presidents I worked under when I worked for the Department of Labor-Clinton, Bush, (yes, Bush- a Republican-I know he’s not a Trump fan), Obama, Biden, VP Harris? Haven’t heard or seen any of them, except for maybe a couple of things from Biden. Surely they have a voice? Are they not allowed to speak out against this corrupt administration?!
I am sick and tired of all of this bs, as we all are! But still nauseously optimistic. Thank you Mr. Reich.
Shelley, if I understand it correctly, the musk-rat has convinced the maga lunatics that Social Security is a ponzi scheme! I hear a lot of the magas around me repeating his words. I am quick to point out that Social Security is, if anything, a giant savings account that we paid into our entire working life! We draw out our money monthly from our savings account. I do not know why the former presidents and vice-presidents are not speaking out. I wish they would.
I totally agree and have been saying this and commenting in every substack - where are they! They should be willing and able to speak out against this obvious attack on democracy, free speech and this administration ignoring the constitution and aiding and abetting the enemy while abandoning and punishing our allies.