Robert, you missed the biggest question: Why sit with insurrectionists? Section 3 of the 14th Amendment to the Constitution prevents officials from holding office again who have “engaged in insurrection” against the United States.
Several members asked Trump for a pardon. At a minimum a pardon is an admission of guilt. In his book, Peter Navarro said that more than a hundred members of Congress were committed to the Green Bay sweep. Who are they?
Ask every current member to swear that they weren't involved before they are seated.
What a good idea! The oath of office seems to be purely ceremonial. They should be willing and able to swear that they had no involvement in the insurrection before being seated.
Laurie, I think every member of Congress should have to swear the oath individually or in pairs where each individual voice is heard. I know it would take time, but maybe it would help them to remember the act when they plan an insurrection. Then each insurrectionist, those who voted not to accept the election results should have to take a special oath or swear they didn't help plan, participate in, or support the insurrection of January 6th and the events before and after, and still stand against it. That should be done individually too.
I’d rather see them charged with what they did — what they were SEEN to have done — than just let them tell one more lie under oath. Unless that oath is added to the things they’re charged with.
Charges are what we need. Oh, right — only little people are subject to the rule of law. It’s a sop for the masses, to make them think the law is paramount… [I used to think that attitude was majorly cynical, but I’m becoming a cynic in my old age.]
Pat, yes, who is accountable to the law is a challenge. A little while back, we kept hearing that "no one is above the law" while all the folks who broke the law on January 6th and in the planning stages who were either in leadership roles or who held congressional or state legislative roles at the time have not been charged with anything. Trump has broken the law so often in his life it is hard to keep count and has rarely been held accountable. In the few times he was fined, there was no sacrifice or need for repentance of any kind on his part. He is not alone! That is not equality under the law.
They make up the rules as they go. Justice is a freaking joke. Look at 'our 'Supreme' court! Look at all these criminals holding office, openly disrespecting us and the rule of law. Corruption is everywhere! They are laughing at us as another travesty of justice is happening in Georgia, with the changes in the rules, and the elimination of a million votes or more!! They can't win legitimately! They are at it again! Stealing another seat! Right in plain sight!
Perhaps not a cynic, just a realist. The facts support a legal system, just like a healthcare system, wealth growth system, tax code system, educational system, environmentally unstable system, food desert system, equality and equity system, paternalistic patriarchal systems, etc. that have always and continue to this day to favor the rich
I agree that you are a realist. Thank you for telling it like it is.
That said, I am absolutely FLABBERGASTED that Reich praised Nancy Pelosi, a neoliberal who, along with her hand picked Wall Street worshipping Chief of Staff, greedball Primus, did absolutely everything in their considerable power FOR WELL OVER A DECADE to PREVENT any Bill that would improve Welfare, Social Security, Cost of Living Allowance Calculations for Senior citizens, Medicare, Raise the Federal Minimum Wage, ETC., from getting a House Floor Vote!
If you want DETAILS on her hostility to ANYTHING that actually benefits to we-the-people, just THIS YEAR, see below:
September 23, 2022, 02:33:21
Good News News for Passage of a long Overdue Bill (i.e. overcoming SABOTAGE BY 👿 Pelosi + Her Staffer 🐍 Primus)
And YEAH, Neoliberal New York Lawyer DINO Jeffries is even WORSE! No wonder the Republicans are eating our lunch! With "friends" like Pelosi, Primus AND Jeffries, we don't need any enemies!
Ruth Sheets ; The problem is ; Their word is not their bond. The oaths of office they all made meant nothing to them. They have been bought. If they swore an oath that they had nothing to do with the insurrection, yet they voted not to certify Biden's election, and stood against discussions about allowing the humans to vote, which is against our Constitution, they are still traitors, and unfit for office. Ditto if they are election deniers. What has happened in Georgia with mail in votes and changed rules, and our useless DOJ/Atty general ; It looks like the takeover is happening/ ongoing now. If justice is not brought soon, it's a done deal.
Laurie, you are right that insurrectionists are in Congress and should not be there, but until the Jan. 6th event is officially declared an insurrection (I am not sure by whom) and those folks are officially accused of participating, it looks like nothing can be done to stop them from continuing the insurrection. That does not mean we should not keep fighting. Besides, there are a lot of laws on the books for the many other crimes those people did, even Baby Donnie, so those laws need to be pulled out, dusted off, and applied to the insurrectionists. It is going to be hard to fix things in Georgia, though, because it was a Confederate state that understood the Constitution as a group of suggestions and that whatever rich powerful white men say is what goes. The fact that they nominated a fool who is Black shows their utter contempt for the federal government and their deep racism. They ain't too fond of women either!
I have to look this up - but did the Jan 6th guys announce a report soon? Have they said anything about their “proof” yet? We are approaching December and a time of year when no one pays attention to anything but bright lights and bells …. I am looking for that committee to ISSUE A REPORT!!!!! And for the AG to act on it!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Pat, I have only heard that a report is in the works. IF it does not result in recommendations to DOJ for prosecutions, it will just be another irrelevant scrap that historians will maybe read, shake their heads, and wonder what was wrong with us that we could do nothing about the fascist attempts to take over our nation.
I don’t know if I have said this on this forum, but I have mentioned it elsewhere — from time to time, I drop in on the White House’s web site, click into the Contact Us link and choose the president and the recipient of my message. I tell him stuff like this, too. He should hear from the people, so he hears from me. You all could give it a try. EVERYBODY could give it a try. 😎
Ed Shook ; Weird how it is coming up on 2 years since Jan 6 insurrection and the main perpetrator has not been charged and few of his helpers/Co -conspirators. Election deniers and voting rights deniers/blockers remain in seats of both houses and even the 'Supreme' court! Sweep things under the rug? Like it never even happened! Like Service Master.
Laurie, it concerns me too that so little has been done to those in charge of the insurrection. I get it that good cases need to be put together, but in nearly 2 years, and with all the information gathered by the Special Committee, there should be more action. Republicans do want everything swept under the rug, but one should remember that what is swept under the rug makes the rug lumpy and will eventually be discovered. It's so much better for everyone if it is dealt with now.
It looks like there is no justice at all. Except for token jail time and fines for those lower on the totem pole, with some exceptions for the most violent losers. They don't care about those they exploit.
I've taken the oath several times in my life in government service. I also take it for every election. This is >no< half-baked ceremony; I take it as seriously as a heart attack - and goddam anyone to an earthly hell who breaks it. Anyone who takes it less seriously has no place >anywhere near< government service at >any< level or office.
DZK ; My husband has the same view as he had taken the oath in his 25 years of service in the US Air Force. He also knows what a skiff is for national security secret documents. I can't believe how haphazardly this last 6 years of our government, homeland 'security' and everything else has been mangled er 'managed.'
Daniel Solomon ; I read that a conviction of instigating an insurrection would be necessary in order to use section 3 of the 14th amendment to keep people from holding or running for office. I thought that is why tRump announced his intention to run for the office so soon ; he wants to beat the clock before he is charged. (seems like the impossible dream that he ever will be indicted).
The members can be sworn. Admissions can be dispositive.
Trump isn't a member of Congress. Constitution, in Article I, Section 5, gives each House of Congress the authority to ``punish its Members'' for misconduct and to expel a Member by a two-thirds vote. The current House members have the power to sanction members. https://archives-democrats-rules.house.gov/Archives/jcoc2ac.htm
Daniel Solomon; Sigh! ; what does disposition mean? Does what you post mean that tRump can not be blocked for inciting an insurrection because he is not a house member, but running for President? I may have to study law (ugh!), just to understand our crazy, ineffective laws and legal system affecting our 'government' *read system of indenture.).
Daniel, alas, there is no way Republicans will actually hold any of their party accountable for anything, so the two-thirds vote to expel will never happen and with McCarthy in charge in the House, despite his fear during the insurrection, he is likely to give the insurrectionists positions of power they don't deserve. Revenge politics is what Republicans specialize in now. Pathetic!
Something like 147 Congressmen! I think most of them are still in Congress. The absolutely worst event that has happened in our history is the election of Trump and his assault on our democracy that goes on to this day. It is an outrage that not ONE person associated, him, his cronies, have not been held accountable. And this is what I fear, now that the GOP holds the House and most of the Senate and the Supreme Court, it is quite possible nothing will happen to anyone INCLUDING TRUMP.....are we on a rapidly deteriorating path to autocracy....The GOP can run Merrick Garland through endless investigations, impeach him in fact, defund the DOJ, go after the FBI (not that I'm a supporter of Christoper Wray, I would love to see Biden replace him and Powell and DeJoy, etc. etc.) I think Ro Khanna is terrific!
Dems at least need to ABOLISH THE DEBT CEILING before the end of the lame duck session, to prevent the Repooplickins from weaponizing it for blackmail.
Their vote is not the same as being part of the conspiracy.
The general conspiracy statute, 18 U.S.C. § 371, creates an offense "[i]f two or more persons conspire either to commit any offense against the United States, or to defraud the United States, or any agency thereof in any manner or for any purpose.
Daniel…thank you! None of these members should be seated in OUR Congress. They are criminals. We are not going to pretend this didn’t happen nor will Democratic voters EVER forget.
Georgia is down a million mail in ballots from prev election….Dems use the mail in ballots most…it will never end unless we bring down the hammer.
From what I understand, and what I think more probable than any of what's being suggested here, is a shit-show impeachment vendetta conducted by the House Tweety-wankers when they take power in the next Congress. I also expect much the same concerning the budget. And let's not forget the "teabaggers" pushing for tax cuts for those whom they serve, all while holding government services hostage.
I think the Democrats should pay close attention to and make a laundry-list of >every< initiative the "Republicans" attempt under the cover of the shit-show, and fashion it into a sledge-hammer on them in '24 under the rubric: "The True Republican Platform they're Ashamed to Announce Publicly, lest they're Run Out of Office." Just sayin'!
DZK, I am sure you are right about the Impeachment marathon Republicans are about to launch. Because they don't know how to govern, Republicans grab onto something from the past and twist it into something they think they can use to disrupt everything and do the distract, divert, and deflect action believing their constituents will be OK with it. I like the laundry list idea and I think Dems need to from the beginning, keep information flowing about impeachment USA and how ridiculous it is and how completely wasteful of their tax money. Push the money part because that is supposed to be what Republicans are only interested in, that and hating people who are not like themselves.
Oh Daniel, I like your idea of having every insurrectionist swear they weren't/aren't involved and if they are found to be lying they can be expelled. There would have to be a plan for anyone who does say they were involved but are no longer involved. It seems the amendments of the Constitution beyond the 2nd amendment are ignored on a regular basis: suppressing votes of those the Constitution says have the right to vote, everyone 18 years of age and older. Oh yes, Republican criminals do like declaring the 5th (which they have a right to do, but always seem to blame anyone else who does it). I don't see anything happening, though since all the insurrectionists are Republicans and Republicans now have the House, albeit by a small margin, but large enough.
Ruth Sheets ; Republicans do not have a true majority of the house, as I see it. Those who were involved in the insurrection, those who refused to certify the election and those who are election deniers are illegitimate and should not be in office!
They are swearing that they have not engaged in insurrection. Once upon a time, we had an "Ironclad Oath" after the civil war. We have loyalty oaths. Cole v Richardson. https://supreme.justia.com/cases/federal/us/405/676/
The House has its own rules, and as a matter of fact, every member must sign financial disclosures and other documents under penalty of perjury in some cases on a monthly basis.
As a government officials they live in a fishbowl and their clearances are updated every 5 years.
That BS about the Duke Lacrosse team has no relevancy.
Tom, on a site like this I think everyone's opinion is welcome, whether pro or con. But this is thankfully a place for civil discourse, so calling people names like bone head accomplishes nothing. And it diminishes your point. And me, I'm proud of my community college experience. Go Eagles!
Abraham, thank you for your comment about civil discourse and for your appreciation of community college. Many of my students attended community college and worked for and received a quality education. Some went on to a 4-year school while others didn't. So much depends on what one wants to study. One's value should not depend on which level of education one has. DeSantis went to law school but one wouldn't know it from the inane and hateful comments he makes and laws he wants passed.
Nonsense Tom. Helping students under a certain income with student loans is the kind of thing people do for each other. When one is struggling, others come through to help. We do it in disasters, crop failures, and so much more. It is time folks stop looking at student loan relief as a giveaway to people who won't appreciate it and that it is like stealing from one group to pay another. It is neighbors helping neighbors. You must have been lucky enough to be able to pay back your loans or even luckier not to have any. Anyone who has dealt with student loans knows how hard it is. Most of us do not begrudge those now in need. I do wish some help could have been available for me and my family, but I am glad at least some help is hopefully coming to some young people now.
And with inflation that word cost 30 cents. But I'm sure Jim Jordan and the Republicans will get inflation down. As soon as they deal with Problem Number One in America - Hunter Biden.
Tom, you sound like an educated person who likes to learn and grow, so in the little icon beside my name you'll find a link to a subscript newsletter that I think you'll enjoy. You may even recognize some of the people profiled in these articles.
You might even want to Subscribe (it's free) and leave Comments.
I'd recommend starting with the "Four Faces of Neo-Fascism." My personal favorite is the "Five Faces of Marjorie Taylor Greene." And there's a nice little forensic assessment of whether Donald Trump is a psychopath. (I think he is, but you're free to take the test yourself.) And last but not least there's the "Triumvirate of Evil: Bannon, Giuliani & Stone."
If the House Republicans go nuclear on Hunter Biden, why wouldn't Dems retaliate with messaging and media on Jared Kushner and the Arab oil kingdom connections? I would think it would be deadly, because there's no mystery at all with his bailouts and the conflicts of interest as Trump's envoy to the Middle East.
If Democrats gain a 51st Senate seat, they will have subpoena power Can extend the Jan 6 House inquiry, examine, say Gym Jordan's conduct in spreading a false narrative of 1/6. Besides the Kushners, many others should be investigated.
Daniel, I don't think the Republican's are "investigating" Hunter Biden, they're demonizing him, scapegoating him.
In the absence of any immediate foreign threat, they're turning on Americans.
Headline-grabbing Gym Jordan sets himself up as the Great Savior of America slaying the Great Demon Hunter Biden.
It's the 3 Ds: Distraction, Diversion, Deflection.
By next week people will say: Jan.6? Never heard of it.
Jordan's on FOX today; jacket off, sleeves rolled up, ready to "fight for America"
I thought this crew just ran on Fighting Inflation, Gas Prices & Crime. Now suddenly Hunter Biden is the Great Demon, and Gym Jordan the Great White Knight.
Hunter Biden, while working in his father’s administration had 41 trademarks fast tracked by China. A conflict of interest at the very least as his father was in trade negotiations with China at the time!!
Abraham, I like your 3 d's of distract, divert, deflect. Alot of what happens related to Jordan and the rest will depend on what Democrats do between now and when the new Congress takes over in January. If Dems permit the 3 d's to be the major point of interest, it will be because they haven't done the big deals that need to be done before that January deadline. Jordan has his own problems so needs to be careful how much attention he gets.
I've been a little negative today, so I'd like to point out some really good news: I think the whole Republican party might tear itself apart in their upcoming battle for Who's-the-Boss.
I've always thought internal party politics was more lethal than between parties, so let the games begin.
you're right Ruth, Dems will have their hands full dealing with these far-righters.
And Jordan definitely has a closet full of dirty laundry, as does Greene and Goetz and Boebert and how many others. Methinks they all doth protest too much.
MLK said “the arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends toward justice.”
I hope it's true in the long run, but in the short term, I honestly believe neo-fascism has hi-jacked the once Grand Old Party: demagoguery, inflaming resentment against scapegoats, hyper-nationalism, appeals to violence, attacks on democratic institutions.
Last week I had hope; this week I am sickened: I hear jackboots in the Proud Boys; I hear Goebbels in Jim Jordan; I hear Yeats's "rough beast" slouching into Washington.
"The best lack all conviction/ And the worst are full of passionate intensity."
Yes, the Dems had better get their act together. Once again it's a battle for the soul of America. And the barbarians are at the gate.
Daniel, yes, so why are McCarthy and his "colleagues" going after him? They should have no say if there is already an investigation. It seems the Republicans are just looking for something to distract the American people from Republican complete ineptness and disregard for the needs of the people, global warming, and the rest.
These people are political animals and McCarthy needs to say this stuff to placate the hard liners. The way I look at it, all of these points are subject to negotiation.
My initial reaction is that spending more time with media and messaging about the crimes that the Trump family has committed is kind of a waste of time. Any Democrat or other thinking person who pays attention to politics is already well aware that they have committed many crimes. And for Trump's followers, no amount of proof would be enough. What is far more important is for Trump to be tried for fomenting the insurrection and trying to install himself as dictator for life. Politicians are more than mere lawmakers. They also, to a great extent, set a standard for what is acceptable behavior through their example. If there are no actual consequences for Trump's violent attempted coup, that sends a signal to his followers that such behavior can be considered acceptable, at least if you're powerful enough. Just by being in office, Trump lowered the bar exponentially for how politicians, and by extension other Americans should engage in politics. That bar needs to be raised back up, and politicians, regardless of their political beliefs, need to become leaders again.
I hope we can survive McCarthy, but from his speech I can already tell the division and the hatred will continue. To Nancy Pelosi, thank you for your continued dedication, thank you for a job well done!
More than 30 Republican members opposed McCarthy. Voting as a block, Democrats have tremendous leverage and should negotiate.
47 House Republicans voted for the bill protecting marriage equality. 13 for infrastructure, 24 the Chips Act. How many would codify Roe, support child tax credits?
Daniel, wouldn't it be great if Dems and the Republicans who actually care could actually get things done. I know the speaker has control over what comes to the floor, but they could refuse to even look at anything he lets through if the other bills don't come up too. We'll see.
Nitza, I have noticed the same thing about McCarthy. I suspect he is trying to cover for previous cowardice thinking his hate speech will make him appear strong. It doesn't. I agree with you that Nancy Pelosi has done a great job and I, too, appreciate her leadership.
There sure aren't any Profiles in Courage for this Republican era (except maybe Liz Cheney). But the "Profiles in Cowardice" book is gonna be a thousand pages long, with Mitch McConnell on the cover.
And Kevin McCarthy, if you're listening, Marjorie Greene's boots are gonna Walk All Over You.
I was kicked out of the Daily Kos echo chamber for expressing my opinion of Pelosi. I have nothing to say, my lips are sealed. Say something once, why say it again?
To me, Nancy Pelosi's calm leadership while out Capitol was invaded by the Trump mob and Trump refused to take any action, will never be forgotten. It speaks volumes, about Pelosi and Trump as well as the different attitudes toward governance between Rs and Ds.
“No other Speaker in living memory has been so reviled by the Republican right [as Nancy Pelosi].”
For a simple reason: Pelosi has been the most effective House Speaker in several lifetimes.
No Democrat ever demonized, say, John Boehner as Republicans have Pelosi, because Boehner couldn’t get anything done. In fact, Democrats like me look back on Boehner’s speakership with perhaps a twinge of nostalgia, still feeling a tad sorry for the poor, affable, man.
Boehner surely realizes that his real nemesis wasn’t Barack Obama or the House Democrats’ Minority Leader, but was, rather, his own Majority Whip, Eric Cantor and the members of his caucus propelled into office by the Tea Party — most of whom would be excoriated as “RINOs” by Trump and those who control the GOP today.
Name an office building after Pelosi? I have a better idea: build a federal prison whose sole purpose is incarcerating those convicted of the January 6 insurrection and name THAT for Pelosi.
There is probably some jealousy, along with misogyny, in the mix. These weak men cannot tolerate the idea that Nancy Pelosi, a woman, is far more capable than they can ever hope to be. Never underestimate the destructive power of jealousy.
While I don't have the detailed knowledge to be able to assess fully the scope of Nancy Pelosi's work as Speaker and Democratic leader, and while I have disagreed in a very few instances, I've taken heart from the knowledge that she was in charge of the House. I loved reading the account of her trying to stop the Obama crew from cutting more out of the healthcare bill by wanting to keep making more compromises—it was reported she just about had to hit one of them over the head, to get him to comprehend that She Had the Votes!!! Her calm and low-key comments prior to the recent elections allowed one to get a little sleep at night. Absolutely, she can count!! I will miss her as Speaker and leader, but am glad she will stay in the House as Representative of her district.
I hope Democrats can get some things done during the lame duck session ; including codifying Roe and protecting marriage equality, (what will happen to those who are already married? and some with families? so hurtful and destructive!) Also, what about raising the debt ceiling? It's a shame that the Republican party is a party of hate and destruction ; hell bent on revenge and personal attacks, in addition to enmity towards the people they are supposed to serve and who pay them well.
Yes, Laurie, bitterness is so toxic - in all directions - and builds over time into rage which is beyond control. I wish Americans would affirm their shared dreams and purposes, find common ground and build from that point forward, accepting that there are differences of opinion or belief, but refraining from demonizing. I wish, I wish. And I guardedly hope.
Lark Leonard ; I do too. The smart ones will realize that common ground is the only way to get real benefits for everyone in the long run. Remember " What goes around, comes around".
Lark, the level of damage inflicted by these fascists cannot be changed or addressed with reason. They are not in command of any sense of reason.
The Democrats attempts to make life better for Americans has been blocked by republicans for years on end. This is a fight for rights, a war imposed on us by republicans. Bitterness happens when people are cheated out of their votes and voices. It can’t end without addressing the criminals.
I deeply agree with you - anyone who has broken the law must own the consequences. The bitterness I speak of is what I feel and perceive around me, common people who have not broken the law but who seem to believe Fox News. They are misled but are vehemently dedicated to their false information. It is heart-breaking to watch.
Without consequences, there is no deterrence. They just keep getting away with it. It seems like there are bad actors throughout our government, in all 3 branches. Money has bought them and corrupted our country. If they cannot be removed, it's anyone's guess what's next. The gaming of Georgia's mail in ballots is wrong, deliberate and obviously unfair. Identifying those involved and bringing them to justice is the only remedy. Otherwise, it will not get better. Ask any battered woman, if she is still alive.
it seems the electorate needs to be cognizant of an external threat to rally together---a threat like China or maybe climate. lacking that it's what Nietzsche said about in times of peace the military man turns upon himself.
the politics of resentment always needs a scapegoat, someone to blame, someone to go get - so the Great Demon Threat to America is Hunter Biden.
And Jim Jordan's gonna git him; he's doing all the talk shows, the brave White Knight who's gonna slay the Great Satan Hunter Biden and Make America Great Again. And I guess that will solve inflation and high gas prices and crime (or was that just an election con).
Oh, these brave Republicans, all banding together to fight the terrible threat to Democracy Hunter Biden. Jim's got his jacket off and his sleeves rolled up and he's ready to rumble Hunter to the ground and save America.
Fighting Inflation? Crime? Jan.6? Naw, the Republicans are busy saving America from HB.
The good news is they're all drooling with lust for power so hopefully they'll destroy each other in the process. Let's hope so.
He’s going to pin Hunter down on the mat. I do hope It backfires on them.Now I’m going to have to dig into the election results. And recommend to others that we do Some lessons Learned. I’m here in Missouri where40 years of disinvestment have made a difference
steveandjanereed ; Inside America there is definitely us and them. and some outsiders too. Those with money buy our media and use it to misinform and divide. It is easier to conquer a divided people. Those with the money buy their puppets who spread lies and become our enemies and traitors, as they justify disenfranchising us while their masters rob us.
this is true.what a kingmaker and king destroyer Murdock has been.our democracy will always be in peril as long as we have a Supreme Court so hostile to it.what in the world did these people learn in law school ?
Nancy - It is absolutely treasonous and I wake up every morning hoping that today is the day he will be held accountable. Our country has got to stand by it's laws.
This all makes sense, yet republicans give the middle finger for subpoenas, as trump has done and no arrests are made! We WATCHED TFG commit the crime of inciting a deadly insurrection and many other forms of violence, including numerous charges of sexual assault, verbal encouragement to batter protesters that resulted in those protesters being injured. It goes on and on.
Illegally removed Documents were found in his residence. No arrests…no actions.
Wow, I didn't know I had so much Power! Two hours ago I called for Merrick Garland to step and Bingo! he shows up on TV appointing a Special Prosecutor to look into Trump. (And there's no Bill Barr to whitewash it.)
And I recall Trump saying about Hillary Clinton can't run for president because she was under investigation. Well, Mr. former President, now YOU are under investigation, so pack up your wigs and head out on the golf course.
Anyway, good for you Merrick Garland. Sure takes the wind out of Jim Jordan's charade. Go Merrick!
I think Ro Khanna would make an excellent Democratic leader and House Speaker. He is articulate, intelligent, young, handsome, and a natural leader. Further it would better prepare him for a run at the presidency in 2028. As to what we can expect of Congress a lot will depend on the final outcome of Representatives elected, I still have hope for Dr. Kermit Jones, that hasn't been announced yet and we could end with a 218 R to 217 D which will make for an interesting decision making. McCarthy is not well liked. The only reason he wins is because he represents a large sparsely populated mountain area. I don't think he even lives in the district, but those people vote Republican because (Daddy, Granddaddy, Great Granddaddy and back as far as we can remember have always voted Republican, if it was good enough for Great Great Granddaddy, Jack it's good enough for me) There is an outside chance that Ro Khanna could be our next speaker
Ro simply did what any good prominent Democratic Representative must do:support the President by pointing out the risk of Biden not being on the ticket in 2024. and that support includes not pointing out the risk of having him on the ticket.I like Ro a lot but it all depends upon what kind of voter appeal he has.
I'm grateful for the GenZs that voted, but nationwide they comprised only 27% of the votes. When that number reaches 60-70%, it's fair to say the young have spoken, but we're a long way from that point.
I think we're saying the same thing. 27% is far from a youth wave...it's a start. As to Latino voters, Mike Madrid provides excellent analyses. There are many types of Latino voters, but bottom line, they're mostly unmotivated by immigration. Their primary concerns are jobs and economic opportunity. They feel that Republicans are speaking to them about their concerns, while Democrats largely ignore them until election season, then talk mostly about immigration. Democrats who emphasized jobs and 'tough on crime' did best with Latino communities.
Speaker Pelaosi has given new meaning to the phrase "The Lady of the House". She is a class act. She wisely knew when to exit the stage to give a new generation of legislators the stage to do what she did when she was their age; to grapple with the new issues of the day and the unknown issues that will arise unannounced. A Great Lady -Women-Speaker. I trust the new leaders will seek her council in the future.
Nancy is the greatest Speaker ever, IMO. She's from Baltimore. She's smart and tough as nails. I love her.
Sadly, times have changed. Since around Newt, the House is more like a Redneck Haters Ball. Decorum is gone. Statesmanship is history.
Nancy was left to deal with haters, and it's nearly impossible to make progress when others just want to obstruct progress. I give her a lot of respect for being Presidential and getting the People's business done. She never stooped to their level.
In these times of sound bytes and short attention spans, Democrats need a Speaker (and Chair) who are strong messengers. It's too easy for the GOP to say Dems are out of touch when leaders are from elite areas on the Coasts. It's not true, but in politics perception trumps reality.
We need stronger messengers. We need a message that connects with the Rust Belt states. When Trump connected more with the depressed Rust Belt, we lost. (Nevermind that Obama and Dems saved the Great Lakes Auto states like Ohio.)
Whatever happened to politicians like David Bonior (MI) who was an outspoken fighter for labor? The haters and misinformers can't say Tim Ryan is a East/West Coast elitest. IMO, Dems need a working class messenger from the Rust Belt with a message that resonates with the middle class.
When the rich golfer from an elite NY family connected more with Midwest workers than Dems, no wonder we lost. It's time for a new messenger with a new message.
“Anyone seeking further evidence of Nancy Pelosi’s extraordinary reign [governance] need look no further than the anger she stirred up on the Republican side.”
I don’t blame any of this on Nancy and I think she is a wonderful human being, very loyal, and dedicated to her democracy. A true patriot. Thank you for your service. I’m pretty sure the straw that broke the camels back was that attack on her husband. Why put up with that after all the loyalty and service she has performed for her country. I think, taking a step back is another example of her wonderful judgment.
Predicting is simple. The two business institutions, D&R, partnering with media, propped and propelled by wealth, will continue to escalate " Washington for Hire " waste, dumping billions into non-value adding campaigns. The mud raking will become ever more divisive, ( not only wasteful but destructive ), and at fever pitch the markets will continue to fluctuate, controlled by the top 1%.
Robert, you missed the biggest question: Why sit with insurrectionists? Section 3 of the 14th Amendment to the Constitution prevents officials from holding office again who have “engaged in insurrection” against the United States.
Several members asked Trump for a pardon. At a minimum a pardon is an admission of guilt. In his book, Peter Navarro said that more than a hundred members of Congress were committed to the Green Bay sweep. Who are they?
Ask every current member to swear that they weren't involved before they are seated.
What a good idea! The oath of office seems to be purely ceremonial. They should be willing and able to swear that they had no involvement in the insurrection before being seated.
I'd do it by resolution. Can be done on Monday.
Wow, wouldn’t that be terrific!
Laurie, I think every member of Congress should have to swear the oath individually or in pairs where each individual voice is heard. I know it would take time, but maybe it would help them to remember the act when they plan an insurrection. Then each insurrectionist, those who voted not to accept the election results should have to take a special oath or swear they didn't help plan, participate in, or support the insurrection of January 6th and the events before and after, and still stand against it. That should be done individually too.
I’d rather see them charged with what they did — what they were SEEN to have done — than just let them tell one more lie under oath. Unless that oath is added to the things they’re charged with.
Charges are what we need. Oh, right — only little people are subject to the rule of law. It’s a sop for the masses, to make them think the law is paramount… [I used to think that attitude was majorly cynical, but I’m becoming a cynic in my old age.]
Pat, yes, who is accountable to the law is a challenge. A little while back, we kept hearing that "no one is above the law" while all the folks who broke the law on January 6th and in the planning stages who were either in leadership roles or who held congressional or state legislative roles at the time have not been charged with anything. Trump has broken the law so often in his life it is hard to keep count and has rarely been held accountable. In the few times he was fined, there was no sacrifice or need for repentance of any kind on his part. He is not alone! That is not equality under the law.
They make up the rules as they go. Justice is a freaking joke. Look at 'our 'Supreme' court! Look at all these criminals holding office, openly disrespecting us and the rule of law. Corruption is everywhere! They are laughing at us as another travesty of justice is happening in Georgia, with the changes in the rules, and the elimination of a million votes or more!! They can't win legitimately! They are at it again! Stealing another seat! Right in plain sight!
They should be held accountable for their crimes ; and not just a slap on the wrist, they should not be in office! EVER!
Perhaps not a cynic, just a realist. The facts support a legal system, just like a healthcare system, wealth growth system, tax code system, educational system, environmentally unstable system, food desert system, equality and equity system, paternalistic patriarchal systems, etc. that have always and continue to this day to favor the rich
I agree that you are a realist. Thank you for telling it like it is.
That said, I am absolutely FLABBERGASTED that Reich praised Nancy Pelosi, a neoliberal who, along with her hand picked Wall Street worshipping Chief of Staff, greedball Primus, did absolutely everything in their considerable power FOR WELL OVER A DECADE to PREVENT any Bill that would improve Welfare, Social Security, Cost of Living Allowance Calculations for Senior citizens, Medicare, Raise the Federal Minimum Wage, ETC., from getting a House Floor Vote!
If you want DETAILS on her hostility to ANYTHING that actually benefits to we-the-people, just THIS YEAR, see below:
September 23, 2022, 02:33:21
Good News News for Passage of a long Overdue Bill (i.e. overcoming SABOTAGE BY 👿 Pelosi + Her Staffer 🐍 Primus)
https://soberthinking.createaforum.com/geopolitics/money/msg531/#msg531
And YEAH, Neoliberal New York Lawyer DINO Jeffries is even WORSE! No wonder the Republicans are eating our lunch! With "friends" like Pelosi, Primus AND Jeffries, we don't need any enemies!
And so...?
I’m with you on this one Pat Goudey OBrien
Yes!
Ruth Sheets ; The problem is ; Their word is not their bond. The oaths of office they all made meant nothing to them. They have been bought. If they swore an oath that they had nothing to do with the insurrection, yet they voted not to certify Biden's election, and stood against discussions about allowing the humans to vote, which is against our Constitution, they are still traitors, and unfit for office. Ditto if they are election deniers. What has happened in Georgia with mail in votes and changed rules, and our useless DOJ/Atty general ; It looks like the takeover is happening/ ongoing now. If justice is not brought soon, it's a done deal.
Laurie, you are right that insurrectionists are in Congress and should not be there, but until the Jan. 6th event is officially declared an insurrection (I am not sure by whom) and those folks are officially accused of participating, it looks like nothing can be done to stop them from continuing the insurrection. That does not mean we should not keep fighting. Besides, there are a lot of laws on the books for the many other crimes those people did, even Baby Donnie, so those laws need to be pulled out, dusted off, and applied to the insurrectionists. It is going to be hard to fix things in Georgia, though, because it was a Confederate state that understood the Constitution as a group of suggestions and that whatever rich powerful white men say is what goes. The fact that they nominated a fool who is Black shows their utter contempt for the federal government and their deep racism. They ain't too fond of women either!
I have to look this up - but did the Jan 6th guys announce a report soon? Have they said anything about their “proof” yet? We are approaching December and a time of year when no one pays attention to anything but bright lights and bells …. I am looking for that committee to ISSUE A REPORT!!!!! And for the AG to act on it!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Pat, I have only heard that a report is in the works. IF it does not result in recommendations to DOJ for prosecutions, it will just be another irrelevant scrap that historians will maybe read, shake their heads, and wonder what was wrong with us that we could do nothing about the fascist attempts to take over our nation.
I don’t know if I have said this on this forum, but I have mentioned it elsewhere — from time to time, I drop in on the White House’s web site, click into the Contact Us link and choose the president and the recipient of my message. I tell him stuff like this, too. He should hear from the people, so he hears from me. You all could give it a try. EVERYBODY could give it a try. 😎
No special oath! And no other loopholes! Boot their @$$es the f*** out!
If only that could happen. Our whole system of 'Justice' is totally useless!
I agree, and this is where leader ship matters. Sometimes I think they are trying to sweep everything under the rug and that is not going to work.
Ed Shook ; Weird how it is coming up on 2 years since Jan 6 insurrection and the main perpetrator has not been charged and few of his helpers/Co -conspirators. Election deniers and voting rights deniers/blockers remain in seats of both houses and even the 'Supreme' court! Sweep things under the rug? Like it never even happened! Like Service Master.
Laurie, it concerns me too that so little has been done to those in charge of the insurrection. I get it that good cases need to be put together, but in nearly 2 years, and with all the information gathered by the Special Committee, there should be more action. Republicans do want everything swept under the rug, but one should remember that what is swept under the rug makes the rug lumpy and will eventually be discovered. It's so much better for everyone if it is dealt with now.
Right, all the little soldiers in the field are being charged and tried, and all the leaders on the Hill are waltzing around crowing and unscathed.
Ugh!
It looks like there is no justice at all. Except for token jail time and fines for those lower on the totem pole, with some exceptions for the most violent losers. They don't care about those they exploit.
some even are rewarded by being reelected!!!!!!
Adding insult to injury!
Crazy!
They don’t mind lying, Laurie. They’ve created their own reality around it.
Seeking Reason ; It certainly looks that way!
I've taken the oath several times in my life in government service. I also take it for every election. This is >no< half-baked ceremony; I take it as seriously as a heart attack - and goddam anyone to an earthly hell who breaks it. Anyone who takes it less seriously has no place >anywhere near< government service at >any< level or office.
DZK ; My husband has the same view as he had taken the oath in his 25 years of service in the US Air Force. He also knows what a skiff is for national security secret documents. I can't believe how haphazardly this last 6 years of our government, homeland 'security' and everything else has been mangled er 'managed.'
Then you understand; on >that< issue I stand to the right of Atilla the Hun!
Along with my husband, Ken.
Daniel Solomon ; I read that a conviction of instigating an insurrection would be necessary in order to use section 3 of the 14th amendment to keep people from holding or running for office. I thought that is why tRump announced his intention to run for the office so soon ; he wants to beat the clock before he is charged. (seems like the impossible dream that he ever will be indicted).
The members can be sworn. Admissions can be dispositive.
Trump isn't a member of Congress. Constitution, in Article I, Section 5, gives each House of Congress the authority to ``punish its Members'' for misconduct and to expel a Member by a two-thirds vote. The current House members have the power to sanction members. https://archives-democrats-rules.house.gov/Archives/jcoc2ac.htm
Daniel Solomon; Sigh! ; what does disposition mean? Does what you post mean that tRump can not be blocked for inciting an insurrection because he is not a house member, but running for President? I may have to study law (ugh!), just to understand our crazy, ineffective laws and legal system affecting our 'government' *read system of indenture.).
Dispositive means guilt.
House rules don't apply to Trump.
Daniel, alas, there is no way Republicans will actually hold any of their party accountable for anything, so the two-thirds vote to expel will never happen and with McCarthy in charge in the House, despite his fear during the insurrection, he is likely to give the insurrectionists positions of power they don't deserve. Revenge politics is what Republicans specialize in now. Pathetic!
2/3 of those ELIGIBLE to vote. Insurrectionists don't count.
Moreover the rules can be rewritten to require the oath.
The lame duck congress should do so immediately. Are there barriers to doing so that most of us don’t know about?
Something like 147 Congressmen! I think most of them are still in Congress. The absolutely worst event that has happened in our history is the election of Trump and his assault on our democracy that goes on to this day. It is an outrage that not ONE person associated, him, his cronies, have not been held accountable. And this is what I fear, now that the GOP holds the House and most of the Senate and the Supreme Court, it is quite possible nothing will happen to anyone INCLUDING TRUMP.....are we on a rapidly deteriorating path to autocracy....The GOP can run Merrick Garland through endless investigations, impeach him in fact, defund the DOJ, go after the FBI (not that I'm a supporter of Christoper Wray, I would love to see Biden replace him and Powell and DeJoy, etc. etc.) I think Ro Khanna is terrific!
Dems at least need to ABOLISH THE DEBT CEILING before the end of the lame duck session, to prevent the Repooplickins from weaponizing it for blackmail.
Since this is a budget matter they should be able to do it under reconciliation.
Their vote is not the same as being part of the conspiracy.
The general conspiracy statute, 18 U.S.C. § 371, creates an offense "[i]f two or more persons conspire either to commit any offense against the United States, or to defraud the United States, or any agency thereof in any manner or for any purpose.
https://www.justice.gov/crt/title-52-voting-and-elections-subtitle-i-and-ii
Daniel…thank you! None of these members should be seated in OUR Congress. They are criminals. We are not going to pretend this didn’t happen nor will Democratic voters EVER forget.
Georgia is down a million mail in ballots from prev election….Dems use the mail in ballots most…it will never end unless we bring down the hammer.
From what I understand, and what I think more probable than any of what's being suggested here, is a shit-show impeachment vendetta conducted by the House Tweety-wankers when they take power in the next Congress. I also expect much the same concerning the budget. And let's not forget the "teabaggers" pushing for tax cuts for those whom they serve, all while holding government services hostage.
I think the Democrats should pay close attention to and make a laundry-list of >every< initiative the "Republicans" attempt under the cover of the shit-show, and fashion it into a sledge-hammer on them in '24 under the rubric: "The True Republican Platform they're Ashamed to Announce Publicly, lest they're Run Out of Office." Just sayin'!
DZK, I am sure you are right about the Impeachment marathon Republicans are about to launch. Because they don't know how to govern, Republicans grab onto something from the past and twist it into something they think they can use to disrupt everything and do the distract, divert, and deflect action believing their constituents will be OK with it. I like the laundry list idea and I think Dems need to from the beginning, keep information flowing about impeachment USA and how ridiculous it is and how completely wasteful of their tax money. Push the money part because that is supposed to be what Republicans are only interested in, that and hating people who are not like themselves.
https://youtu.be/RCSYBeWuDhw
LOL! : https://youtu.be/2nl1xXO918o
https://youtu.be/uoHt1xw7_ps
Oh Daniel, I like your idea of having every insurrectionist swear they weren't/aren't involved and if they are found to be lying they can be expelled. There would have to be a plan for anyone who does say they were involved but are no longer involved. It seems the amendments of the Constitution beyond the 2nd amendment are ignored on a regular basis: suppressing votes of those the Constitution says have the right to vote, everyone 18 years of age and older. Oh yes, Republican criminals do like declaring the 5th (which they have a right to do, but always seem to blame anyone else who does it). I don't see anything happening, though since all the insurrectionists are Republicans and Republicans now have the House, albeit by a small margin, but large enough.
Ruth Sheets ; Republicans do not have a true majority of the house, as I see it. Those who were involved in the insurrection, those who refused to certify the election and those who are election deniers are illegitimate and should not be in office!
They are swearing that they have not engaged in insurrection. Once upon a time, we had an "Ironclad Oath" after the civil war. We have loyalty oaths. Cole v Richardson. https://supreme.justia.com/cases/federal/us/405/676/
The House has its own rules, and as a matter of fact, every member must sign financial disclosures and other documents under penalty of perjury in some cases on a monthly basis.
As a government officials they live in a fishbowl and their clearances are updated every 5 years.
That BS about the Duke Lacrosse team has no relevancy.
Actually it's an inference. The admission, shithead, is in the oath.
👍🏼
To clarify…thumbs up to Daniel
Yeah Daniel!
ad hominem != high road
Hair too curly for ya'?
Tom, on a site like this I think everyone's opinion is welcome, whether pro or con. But this is thankfully a place for civil discourse, so calling people names like bone head accomplishes nothing. And it diminishes your point. And me, I'm proud of my community college experience. Go Eagles!
Abraham, thank you for your comment about civil discourse and for your appreciation of community college. Many of my students attended community college and worked for and received a quality education. Some went on to a 4-year school while others didn't. So much depends on what one wants to study. One's value should not depend on which level of education one has. DeSantis went to law school but one wouldn't know it from the inane and hateful comments he makes and laws he wants passed.
DeSantis went to Harvard Law School, but he rails against the "elites."
Abraham, yeah, isn't hypocrisy something! It must work, though because Republicans now use it as their main "strategy."
Nonsense Tom. Helping students under a certain income with student loans is the kind of thing people do for each other. When one is struggling, others come through to help. We do it in disasters, crop failures, and so much more. It is time folks stop looking at student loan relief as a giveaway to people who won't appreciate it and that it is like stealing from one group to pay another. It is neighbors helping neighbors. You must have been lucky enough to be able to pay back your loans or even luckier not to have any. Anyone who has dealt with student loans knows how hard it is. Most of us do not begrudge those now in need. I do wish some help could have been available for me and my family, but I am glad at least some help is hopefully coming to some young people now.
That's quite the generalization there, Tom.
There's over 4 million CC students in the US, and you know for sure that they all forgo their loans? All 4 million? How do you know that?
So why are you here? What is your point?
And with inflation that word cost 30 cents. But I'm sure Jim Jordan and the Republicans will get inflation down. As soon as they deal with Problem Number One in America - Hunter Biden.
Tom, you sound like an educated person who likes to learn and grow, so in the little icon beside my name you'll find a link to a subscript newsletter that I think you'll enjoy. You may even recognize some of the people profiled in these articles.
You might even want to Subscribe (it's free) and leave Comments.
I'd recommend starting with the "Four Faces of Neo-Fascism." My personal favorite is the "Five Faces of Marjorie Taylor Greene." And there's a nice little forensic assessment of whether Donald Trump is a psychopath. (I think he is, but you're free to take the test yourself.) And last but not least there's the "Triumvirate of Evil: Bannon, Giuliani & Stone."
It's brilliant, as you say. Just brilliant.
tRump University Law School, dean Rudy Giuliani.
laptop *in* the pizza parlor
Do onto others...
Tom, Say What!
If the House Republicans go nuclear on Hunter Biden, why wouldn't Dems retaliate with messaging and media on Jared Kushner and the Arab oil kingdom connections? I would think it would be deadly, because there's no mystery at all with his bailouts and the conflicts of interest as Trump's envoy to the Middle East.
I personally have no objection to an investigation of Hunter Biden. A sitting US attorney in Delaware has been doing it. Can't choose your relatives. https://www.washingtonpost.com/national-security/2022/10/06/hunter-biden-tax-gun-charges/
If Democrats gain a 51st Senate seat, they will have subpoena power Can extend the Jan 6 House inquiry, examine, say Gym Jordan's conduct in spreading a false narrative of 1/6. Besides the Kushners, many others should be investigated.
Daniel, I don't think the Republican's are "investigating" Hunter Biden, they're demonizing him, scapegoating him.
In the absence of any immediate foreign threat, they're turning on Americans.
Headline-grabbing Gym Jordan sets himself up as the Great Savior of America slaying the Great Demon Hunter Biden.
It's the 3 Ds: Distraction, Diversion, Deflection.
By next week people will say: Jan.6? Never heard of it.
Jordan's on FOX today; jacket off, sleeves rolled up, ready to "fight for America"
I thought this crew just ran on Fighting Inflation, Gas Prices & Crime. Now suddenly Hunter Biden is the Great Demon, and Gym Jordan the Great White Knight.
What hypocrites.
Read the article.
Hunter Biden, while working in his father’s administration had 41 trademarks fast tracked by China. A conflict of interest at the very least as his father was in trade negotiations with China at the time!!
Oh wait that was Ivanka Trump!!
They need to focus on the really important issue: Why can’t I get Taylor Swift tickets? Heads should roll!
Abraham, I like your 3 d's of distract, divert, deflect. Alot of what happens related to Jordan and the rest will depend on what Democrats do between now and when the new Congress takes over in January. If Dems permit the 3 d's to be the major point of interest, it will be because they haven't done the big deals that need to be done before that January deadline. Jordan has his own problems so needs to be careful how much attention he gets.
I've been a little negative today, so I'd like to point out some really good news: I think the whole Republican party might tear itself apart in their upcoming battle for Who's-the-Boss.
I've always thought internal party politics was more lethal than between parties, so let the games begin.
you're right Ruth, Dems will have their hands full dealing with these far-righters.
And Jordan definitely has a closet full of dirty laundry, as does Greene and Goetz and Boebert and how many others. Methinks they all doth protest too much.
MLK said “the arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends toward justice.”
I hope it's true in the long run, but in the short term, I honestly believe neo-fascism has hi-jacked the once Grand Old Party: demagoguery, inflaming resentment against scapegoats, hyper-nationalism, appeals to violence, attacks on democratic institutions.
Last week I had hope; this week I am sickened: I hear jackboots in the Proud Boys; I hear Goebbels in Jim Jordan; I hear Yeats's "rough beast" slouching into Washington.
"The best lack all conviction/ And the worst are full of passionate intensity."
Yes, the Dems had better get their act together. Once again it's a battle for the soul of America. And the barbarians are at the gate.
Daniel, yes, so why are McCarthy and his "colleagues" going after him? They should have no say if there is already an investigation. It seems the Republicans are just looking for something to distract the American people from Republican complete ineptness and disregard for the needs of the people, global warming, and the rest.
These people are political animals and McCarthy needs to say this stuff to placate the hard liners. The way I look at it, all of these points are subject to negotiation.
McCarthy had to do mea culpas after 1/6 with Trump, who he privately hates, expressed in his testimony and private emails. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gCXsmFlYjzw
My initial reaction is that spending more time with media and messaging about the crimes that the Trump family has committed is kind of a waste of time. Any Democrat or other thinking person who pays attention to politics is already well aware that they have committed many crimes. And for Trump's followers, no amount of proof would be enough. What is far more important is for Trump to be tried for fomenting the insurrection and trying to install himself as dictator for life. Politicians are more than mere lawmakers. They also, to a great extent, set a standard for what is acceptable behavior through their example. If there are no actual consequences for Trump's violent attempted coup, that sends a signal to his followers that such behavior can be considered acceptable, at least if you're powerful enough. Just by being in office, Trump lowered the bar exponentially for how politicians, and by extension other Americans should engage in politics. That bar needs to be raised back up, and politicians, regardless of their political beliefs, need to become leaders again.
I hope we can survive McCarthy, but from his speech I can already tell the division and the hatred will continue. To Nancy Pelosi, thank you for your continued dedication, thank you for a job well done!
More than 30 Republican members opposed McCarthy. Voting as a block, Democrats have tremendous leverage and should negotiate.
47 House Republicans voted for the bill protecting marriage equality. 13 for infrastructure, 24 the Chips Act. How many would codify Roe, support child tax credits?
Daniel, wouldn't it be great if Dems and the Republicans who actually care could actually get things done. I know the speaker has control over what comes to the floor, but they could refuse to even look at anything he lets through if the other bills don't come up too. We'll see.
I would like to see a vote on Roe and child tax credits!
Nitza, I have noticed the same thing about McCarthy. I suspect he is trying to cover for previous cowardice thinking his hate speech will make him appear strong. It doesn't. I agree with you that Nancy Pelosi has done a great job and I, too, appreciate her leadership.
There sure aren't any Profiles in Courage for this Republican era (except maybe Liz Cheney). But the "Profiles in Cowardice" book is gonna be a thousand pages long, with Mitch McConnell on the cover.
And Kevin McCarthy, if you're listening, Marjorie Greene's boots are gonna Walk All Over You.
Nailed it!
Exactly!
I was kicked out of the Daily Kos echo chamber for expressing my opinion of Pelosi. I have nothing to say, my lips are sealed. Say something once, why say it again?
To me, Nancy Pelosi's calm leadership while out Capitol was invaded by the Trump mob and Trump refused to take any action, will never be forgotten. It speaks volumes, about Pelosi and Trump as well as the different attitudes toward governance between Rs and Ds.
“No other Speaker in living memory has been so reviled by the Republican right [as Nancy Pelosi].”
For a simple reason: Pelosi has been the most effective House Speaker in several lifetimes.
No Democrat ever demonized, say, John Boehner as Republicans have Pelosi, because Boehner couldn’t get anything done. In fact, Democrats like me look back on Boehner’s speakership with perhaps a twinge of nostalgia, still feeling a tad sorry for the poor, affable, man.
Boehner surely realizes that his real nemesis wasn’t Barack Obama or the House Democrats’ Minority Leader, but was, rather, his own Majority Whip, Eric Cantor and the members of his caucus propelled into office by the Tea Party — most of whom would be excoriated as “RINOs” by Trump and those who control the GOP today.
Name an office building after Pelosi? I have a better idea: build a federal prison whose sole purpose is incarcerating those convicted of the January 6 insurrection and name THAT for Pelosi.
There is probably some jealousy, along with misogyny, in the mix. These weak men cannot tolerate the idea that Nancy Pelosi, a woman, is far more capable than they can ever hope to be. Never underestimate the destructive power of jealousy.
While I don't have the detailed knowledge to be able to assess fully the scope of Nancy Pelosi's work as Speaker and Democratic leader, and while I have disagreed in a very few instances, I've taken heart from the knowledge that she was in charge of the House. I loved reading the account of her trying to stop the Obama crew from cutting more out of the healthcare bill by wanting to keep making more compromises—it was reported she just about had to hit one of them over the head, to get him to comprehend that She Had the Votes!!! Her calm and low-key comments prior to the recent elections allowed one to get a little sleep at night. Absolutely, she can count!! I will miss her as Speaker and leader, but am glad she will stay in the House as Representative of her district.
I hope Democrats can get some things done during the lame duck session ; including codifying Roe and protecting marriage equality, (what will happen to those who are already married? and some with families? so hurtful and destructive!) Also, what about raising the debt ceiling? It's a shame that the Republican party is a party of hate and destruction ; hell bent on revenge and personal attacks, in addition to enmity towards the people they are supposed to serve and who pay them well.
Yes, Laurie, bitterness is so toxic - in all directions - and builds over time into rage which is beyond control. I wish Americans would affirm their shared dreams and purposes, find common ground and build from that point forward, accepting that there are differences of opinion or belief, but refraining from demonizing. I wish, I wish. And I guardedly hope.
Lark Leonard ; I do too. The smart ones will realize that common ground is the only way to get real benefits for everyone in the long run. Remember " What goes around, comes around".
It surely does!
I think Americans are exhausted by the Spector known as Trump! The vast majority want him to at least “GO AWAY!”
Lark, the level of damage inflicted by these fascists cannot be changed or addressed with reason. They are not in command of any sense of reason.
The Democrats attempts to make life better for Americans has been blocked by republicans for years on end. This is a fight for rights, a war imposed on us by republicans. Bitterness happens when people are cheated out of their votes and voices. It can’t end without addressing the criminals.
I deeply agree with you - anyone who has broken the law must own the consequences. The bitterness I speak of is what I feel and perceive around me, common people who have not broken the law but who seem to believe Fox News. They are misled but are vehemently dedicated to their false information. It is heart-breaking to watch.
Without consequences, there is no deterrence. They just keep getting away with it. It seems like there are bad actors throughout our government, in all 3 branches. Money has bought them and corrupted our country. If they cannot be removed, it's anyone's guess what's next. The gaming of Georgia's mail in ballots is wrong, deliberate and obviously unfair. Identifying those involved and bringing them to justice is the only remedy. Otherwise, it will not get better. Ask any battered woman, if she is still alive.
it seems the electorate needs to be cognizant of an external threat to rally together---a threat like China or maybe climate. lacking that it's what Nietzsche said about in times of peace the military man turns upon himself.
the politics of resentment always needs a scapegoat, someone to blame, someone to go get - so the Great Demon Threat to America is Hunter Biden.
And Jim Jordan's gonna git him; he's doing all the talk shows, the brave White Knight who's gonna slay the Great Satan Hunter Biden and Make America Great Again. And I guess that will solve inflation and high gas prices and crime (or was that just an election con).
Oh, these brave Republicans, all banding together to fight the terrible threat to Democracy Hunter Biden. Jim's got his jacket off and his sleeves rolled up and he's ready to rumble Hunter to the ground and save America.
Fighting Inflation? Crime? Jan.6? Naw, the Republicans are busy saving America from HB.
The good news is they're all drooling with lust for power so hopefully they'll destroy each other in the process. Let's hope so.
He’s going to pin Hunter down on the mat. I do hope It backfires on them.Now I’m going to have to dig into the election results. And recommend to others that we do Some lessons Learned. I’m here in Missouri where40 years of disinvestment have made a difference
steveandjanereed ; Inside America there is definitely us and them. and some outsiders too. Those with money buy our media and use it to misinform and divide. It is easier to conquer a divided people. Those with the money buy their puppets who spread lies and become our enemies and traitors, as they justify disenfranchising us while their masters rob us.
this is true.what a kingmaker and king destroyer Murdock has been.our democracy will always be in peril as long as we have a Supreme Court so hostile to it.what in the world did these people learn in law school ?
As always , couldn't agree more. Obstruction is not a way to solve issues and problems facin our America.
Laurie, Yes. Dems: Shove these things through, pound these things through, blast these things through, and make that a daily event while we can!
How can Trump run for the presidency after inciting an insurrection?? That should be considered treason in my book!!!
Nancy - It is absolutely treasonous and I wake up every morning hoping that today is the day he will be held accountable. Our country has got to stand by it's laws.
https://actionnetwork.org/forms/reject-and-disqualify-trump-from-running-for-president-under-the-fourteenth-amendment-for-engaging-in-the-january-6th-insurrection?source=social-imca&referrer=group-inequality-media-civic-action&redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fsecure.actblue.com%2Fdonate%2Fimca_disqualify_trump&fbclid=IwAR1FyuPtEEjTU6r77RN0QMcFuJDXzwNz5aDg1r1NvWvYJMP9Y_JgAZOew4I
This all makes sense, yet republicans give the middle finger for subpoenas, as trump has done and no arrests are made! We WATCHED TFG commit the crime of inciting a deadly insurrection and many other forms of violence, including numerous charges of sexual assault, verbal encouragement to batter protesters that resulted in those protesters being injured. It goes on and on.
Illegally removed Documents were found in his residence. No arrests…no actions.
Hopefully Trump will be indicted within the year!
It’s so important to wrap this up in 2022…new congress members are seated in Jan and they need to know..they’re next.
Calling Merrick Garland! Hello? Are you there?
Someone should ask him which book he wants to be remembered in: Profiles in Courage, or Profiles in Cowardice?
Wow, I didn't know I had so much Power! Two hours ago I called for Merrick Garland to step and Bingo! he shows up on TV appointing a Special Prosecutor to look into Trump. (And there's no Bill Barr to whitewash it.)
And I recall Trump saying about Hillary Clinton can't run for president because she was under investigation. Well, Mr. former President, now YOU are under investigation, so pack up your wigs and head out on the golf course.
Anyway, good for you Merrick Garland. Sure takes the wind out of Jim Jordan's charade. Go Merrick!
I think Ro Khanna would make an excellent Democratic leader and House Speaker. He is articulate, intelligent, young, handsome, and a natural leader. Further it would better prepare him for a run at the presidency in 2028. As to what we can expect of Congress a lot will depend on the final outcome of Representatives elected, I still have hope for Dr. Kermit Jones, that hasn't been announced yet and we could end with a 218 R to 217 D which will make for an interesting decision making. McCarthy is not well liked. The only reason he wins is because he represents a large sparsely populated mountain area. I don't think he even lives in the district, but those people vote Republican because (Daddy, Granddaddy, Great Granddaddy and back as far as we can remember have always voted Republican, if it was good enough for Great Great Granddaddy, Jack it's good enough for me) There is an outside chance that Ro Khanna could be our next speaker
Ro simply did what any good prominent Democratic Representative must do:support the President by pointing out the risk of Biden not being on the ticket in 2024. and that support includes not pointing out the risk of having him on the ticket.I like Ro a lot but it all depends upon what kind of voter appeal he has.
I'm grateful for the GenZs that voted, but nationwide they comprised only 27% of the votes. When that number reaches 60-70%, it's fair to say the young have spoken, but we're a long way from that point.
I think we're saying the same thing. 27% is far from a youth wave...it's a start. As to Latino voters, Mike Madrid provides excellent analyses. There are many types of Latino voters, but bottom line, they're mostly unmotivated by immigration. Their primary concerns are jobs and economic opportunity. They feel that Republicans are speaking to them about their concerns, while Democrats largely ignore them until election season, then talk mostly about immigration. Democrats who emphasized jobs and 'tough on crime' did best with Latino communities.
Nancy Pelosi will go down in history as the GREATEST speaker in AMERICAN HISTORY!!!!♥️♥️♥️
Speaker Pelaosi has given new meaning to the phrase "The Lady of the House". She is a class act. She wisely knew when to exit the stage to give a new generation of legislators the stage to do what she did when she was their age; to grapple with the new issues of the day and the unknown issues that will arise unannounced. A Great Lady -Women-Speaker. I trust the new leaders will seek her council in the future.
Nancy is the greatest Speaker ever, IMO. She's from Baltimore. She's smart and tough as nails. I love her.
Sadly, times have changed. Since around Newt, the House is more like a Redneck Haters Ball. Decorum is gone. Statesmanship is history.
Nancy was left to deal with haters, and it's nearly impossible to make progress when others just want to obstruct progress. I give her a lot of respect for being Presidential and getting the People's business done. She never stooped to their level.
In these times of sound bytes and short attention spans, Democrats need a Speaker (and Chair) who are strong messengers. It's too easy for the GOP to say Dems are out of touch when leaders are from elite areas on the Coasts. It's not true, but in politics perception trumps reality.
We need stronger messengers. We need a message that connects with the Rust Belt states. When Trump connected more with the depressed Rust Belt, we lost. (Nevermind that Obama and Dems saved the Great Lakes Auto states like Ohio.)
Whatever happened to politicians like David Bonior (MI) who was an outspoken fighter for labor? The haters and misinformers can't say Tim Ryan is a East/West Coast elitest. IMO, Dems need a working class messenger from the Rust Belt with a message that resonates with the middle class.
When the rich golfer from an elite NY family connected more with Midwest workers than Dems, no wonder we lost. It's time for a new messenger with a new message.
Expect more silliness and self- infliction from outlandish trump right.
We are already seeing it. Just hope enough level headed Republicans step forward so as not to allow real harm to country and people.
“Anyone seeking further evidence of Nancy Pelosi’s extraordinary reign [governance] need look no further than the anger she stirred up on the Republican side.”
I don’t blame any of this on Nancy and I think she is a wonderful human being, very loyal, and dedicated to her democracy. A true patriot. Thank you for your service. I’m pretty sure the straw that broke the camels back was that attack on her husband. Why put up with that after all the loyalty and service she has performed for her country. I think, taking a step back is another example of her wonderful judgment.
Predicting is simple. The two business institutions, D&R, partnering with media, propped and propelled by wealth, will continue to escalate " Washington for Hire " waste, dumping billions into non-value adding campaigns. The mud raking will become ever more divisive, ( not only wasteful but destructive ), and at fever pitch the markets will continue to fluctuate, controlled by the top 1%.