You assured us of a "peaceful transfer of power," yet it feels as though a fascist dictator is being installed in the Oval Office.
With all due respect, Mr. President,
This deeply troubles me.
Trump declared that he would arrest anyone who opposes him, labeling them as enemies within.
My God,
Mr. President, you have the authority to stop Trump.
If we do not act now, we risk becoming a fascist dictatorship for generations to come.
Mr. President, I urge you to address the charges of treason and remove Trump's corrupted judges from the Supreme Court, as well as all those in Congress who support his efforts to overturn the 2020 election and his violent insurrection against the United States.
After January 20, 2025, we may never have another opportunity to halt Trump's ambitions.
This is our final chance to prevent a dictatorial takeover of our nation.
The United States Constitution states that
"The punishment for treason is a minimum of five years in prison, a fine of at least $10,000, and the loss of the right to hold public office."
Biden needs to report on Russian interference ASAP! We are the victims of the Russian war on the USA. Putin admits he did it and demands quid pro quo from Trump. As far as I'm concerned the admission is dispositive and is actionalble and constitutes an emergency.
In 2023, U.S. Citizens and Russian Intelligence Officers Charged with Conspiring to Use U.S. Citizens as Illegal Agents of the Russian Government. https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/us-citizens-and-russian-intelligence-officers-charged-conspiring-use-us-citizens-illegal “Today’s announcement paints a harrowing picture of Russian government actions and the lengths to which the FSB will go to interfere with our elections, sow discord in our nation and ultimately recruit U.S citizens to their efforts,” said Acting Assistant Director Kurt Ronnow of the FBI’s Counterintelligence Division. “All Americans should be deeply concerned by the tactics employed by the FSB and remain vigilant to any attempt to undermine our democracy. The FBI remains committed to confronting this egregious behavior and ultimately disrupting our adversaries and those who act on their behalf.”
On Sept. 4, 60 days before the election, An indictment charging Russian nationals Kostiantyn Kalashnikov, 31, also known as Kostya, and Elena Afanasyeva, 27, also known as Lena, with conspiracy to violate the Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA) and conspiracy to commit money laundering was unsealed today in the Southern District of New York. Kalashnikov and Afanasyeva are at large.
“The Justice Department has charged two employees of RT, a Russian state-controlled media outlet, in a $10 million scheme to create and distribute content to U.S. audiences with hidden Russian government messaging,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “The Justice Department will not tolerate attempts by an authoritarian regime to exploit our country’s free exchange of ideas in order to covertly further its own propaganda efforts, and our investigation into this matter remains ongoing.”
Threats to election workers, propaganda about violence, burning of ballots. Bomb threats.
Doubtless Trump has helped launder billions for poisoner Putin over the past 2 decades.
What is really troubling is the extent to which Republicans in Congress either don't know or their short-term rationalizations (OMG I'm going to be primaried!)
allow for the growing influence and threat from Putin.
Not only must we contend with capitalism gone wild creating a plutocracy, but also with a plutocracy somewhat blinded to the threat from adversaries.
what would Biden do other than report on it to the public? Do you want a re-do of the election or something? You and I likely agree Obama was largely MIA on this in 2015. My view is that Obama did not trust the American public. And he got played.
Historical recall is relative. It depends on the sympathy, the ideology of the persons.
Here is some of what I recall. I read a book in the 1980's, I thought it was "Here is the rest of me" about Reagan. In it is related that Reagan would sit behind the Resolute desk, with sagging cheeks, greyed flesh, almost lifeless, until one of his aides put a script in front of him, and the came alive, blood rushed to his cheeks, his eyes brightened, he sat upright, and his skin tightened. That's what I remember.
I also remember being a Shop steward in 1990's when Clinton was president, and having a falling out with the union staff, because I
called out Clinton for betraying us and his base. The Omnibus crime bill, the Telecommunications Act, Defense of Marriage act, Don't ask don't tell, NAFTA, GATT, the Repeal of Glass Steagall with the signThe Graham-Leach-Bliley Act that President Clinton signed in 1999 had everything to do with the crisis of 2008, which Obama bailed out the banks, but not the consumer in 2009
Interesting, but what is it? Should Biden stay on because the probable cause is administrative and commercial chaos in the first weeks of Trump's governing? And prosecuting of old enemies?And What then...? Civil war ?
The media machines and short attention spans have already tossed this and it's not going to get the attention it deserves. That's the system we're in. Huge tech and Fox News and pliant corporations.
You are right, Daniel. Since you cannot undo what happened, our only real hope is that Trump will discredit himself and his coalition. Already, he has admitted that he will NOT be able to lower prices. This means that he will have to double down on deportations and scapegoating, and will create chaos and discontent. The electoral results of 20226 and 2028 is what we must be concerned about now. We must make it absolutely clear that we will defend the Constitution.
The extent to which the Putin regime manipulated the election is , I believe far more serious than currently supposed. Putin's Russia is being bled dry by his war against the Ukraine, and there was no higher priority for him than to get the Democratic Party out of power and install a friendly Trump regime. There were no lengths to which Putin would go to see Trump in office..
Dale, While I, too, am deeply troubled that a plurality of the electorate has voted Trump into power, I question whether the authority you attribute to Biden exists. Hence, as a start, I offer two modest but feasible proposals that I deem necessary though admittedly not sufficient. Accordingly, I emphasize, “as a start.”
1) Using our local constituent power, contact our representatives up and down the ballot, many of whom are DNC voting members, and urge them to endorse Wisconsin Democratic Chair Ben Wikler for Chair of the Democratic National Committee. I would note, contrary to the other candidates who, in my view, would perpetuate the status quo in national politics, Wikler would firmly position Democrats as advocates for working families across the country. He also would focus on improving the Party’s messaging, training and deploying effective communicators to reach voters on every platform, in every place.
2) Summoning one’s local constituent power, join one of the several grassroots groups currently organizing to try and ensure the agenda the Trump regime aims to impose federally does not conflict with a person’s freedoms and rights within states. My top pick is Indivisible that I believe is engaged in the most effective nationwide effort to resist the infiltration of MAGA thinking into our states and local communities. Quoting Indivisible’s co-founders, both of whom are former congressional aids, “Our best chance to get through this era with some amount of democracy intact is to hang on until 2026 and win big in the midterms—breaking Trump’s hold on Congress and making sure election deniers and saboteurs aren’t in charge of the 2028 elections. We’ve boiled it down to three big plays…” For more on Indivisible, visit indivisible.org
"Vote for me and you will never have to vote again". DJT
The day he swears the oath, he will sign the hundreds of executive orders that have already been drafted, and set in motion the plan detailed in Project 2025, which will make voting irrelevant.
Barbafa, Biden certainly has the authority, SCOTUS has said that any official act of the President is legal and he has immunity, which makes it legal, and so long as the President is acting as President anything he does is official.
The rest of your statement infers that you are unaware of Project 2025 and Agenda 47, It is already in play. Trump will appoint the cabinet he needs to decontruct the administrative state, and nullify the Constitution, and the senate will go along with it, because they either are in the same boat as Trump or are terrified of his base.
Trump will use the DOJ, the NSA, the FBI to go after all who oppose him,
If there is any hope, it is the blue states, three of them have governors that have taken steps to protect their ciizens from Trump, Washington, California, Illinois.
William, I don’t believe SCOTUS granted blanket immunity to every President for every official act. That's not what my reading about the ruling says. The ruling concerned t***p only, and only in regard to the charges in question.
Further, the definition of, "official acts" has not yet been adjudicated. Lastly, the chances that this SCOTUS would include acts that Biden commits on his way out are nil.
You can and will believe anything that you wish Denise, That is what people do. All we know is that SCOTUS has granted immunity to official acts of the President, and when it comes to deciding what is and is not an official act.
Either the President will decide or SCOTUS,if there is anyone or any group standing that is capable of challenging the president and lasting through the appeals process to the Supreme Court who will have the final word, and we already know what that final word will be, don't we?
Your condescension aside, William, I don't just "believe" things for no reason. I study various sources before I come to a conclusion. Joyce Vance is a pretty good guide, for instance.
And again, what constitutes official acts has not yet been decided. That is why SCOTUS sent the case presided over by Chutkan back to her, and why Smith filed additional motions. All of which are moot now, yes.
My point being that the goose/ gander principle isn't going to apply here. Biden doesn't have carte blanche. Nor would he have the inclination to use same; he's too much of a "high road" guy.
You are skating by the point. Yes, official acts have not been defined, and as I said if the case comes up, it will be the complicit and corrupt Supreme Court that will decide.
But that is not an excuse to estop Biden from exercising that authority, otherwise it is the same as obedience in advance.
The only hope we have is that the Blue states form a compact,and the compact means not recognizing the Supreme Court of Federal Judicial rulings,excluding federal facilities, especially IRS offices,and doing everything but actually seceding . I draw the line there, because Washington has Fort Lewis (Joint base Lewis McChord) and California has military installations up and down the state, Air Force and Navy installations are not much of a threat, but the President can order the Army and Marines (which are under the Navy) to occupy state capitals and arrest the leadership. He can also federalize the national guard. Which is what Eisenhower did when Gov Faubus used the Arkansas Guard to bar the entry of those black kids to Little Rock High School.. Ike federalized them, had them stand down and sent in the 101st Ariborne.
Quite true, William, but no army, and not eve The Leader, can lower prices. There will be disappointment, and the Trumpsters may end up learning some humility. Don't despair!
My knowledge of human nature tells me that Trump will have created so much chaos, and the media will be chasing another more attractive and important shiny object, that inflation will be ignored.
Also inflation is a media created issue, it is of prime importance to financial institutions, they hate it and they love deflation.
Where is it that people notice the rise in prices Victor? The supermarket.
Who does the shopping at the supermarket Victor? Women
What percentage of women voted for Trump Victor? 45%, despite the rise in the price of eggs, bacon,milk, bread.
Men go shopping, but they are the outliers, and when they do, they have a list in their hand, or are bachelors buying booze and frozen meals.
We don't pay attention prices, But when you see a woman, especially one with kids, she is checking prices, putting thing back on the shelf, and if at a check out counter and the kid grabs some candy or gum at the checkout, very often she puts it back.
I've seen many a woman pull something from the check out, but never a man.
Bottom line is that inflation will not be an issue for Trump, and if I am wrong, he will place the blame on queers, the Chinese, Mexicans and Canadians and the media, by then, will know better than to fact check him.
In fact they already have. The default is obedience in advance. Corporations, especially the media, and politicians know what is coming at them like a freight train, and are scared shitless.
Courage in the face of the onslaught will be a rare thing.
William, Admittedly, I hadn’t accounted for the SCOTUS decision granting the president absolute immunity for official acts. I’ll have to mull over that.
Meanwhile, I’m acutely aware of every provision of Project 25 and also aware of Agenda 47. That said, as one who holds the conviction that together we have the power to fight back, I am laser-focused for now on the 15 Democratic trifecta states.
Our current times feel dystopian in a Handmaid’s Tale kind of way. Democracy is fragile. We are seeing how easily freedoms can be lost through censorship, hypocrisy, class, sex and racial disparity, social and wealth inequality and corrupt patriarchal power and control. Even though I live in blue California, when those in red states (Gilead) are oppressed, so am I.
You and I are vigilant Robert, but more than vigilance is required.
Vigilance is what is needed to keep one from falling into a hole, but we have already fallen into the hole, now we have to find a way to get ourselves out of the hole., and the hole is deep very deep.
The one thing that made me cringe in Kamala’s speeches was her insistent repetition of concern about the MIDDLE class rather than the WORKING class or just WORKING PEOPLE. Let’s get it straight next time.
Susan, While Kamala is not alone in this regard, because civil rights leader William Barber repeatedly has reported that a million poor people don’t vote, I believe both our policy and our framing of its constituents need to be broadened. Accordingly, I typically refer to poor and working class voters.
aim for more compromise and not be dependent on the DNC: they need to listen to 'the people' that's how true democracy works-- not having the hubris to think they know what's best.
Remember the warnings of our founding father's who weren't reliant upon parties to create life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. We need, instead, to rely more on nonpartisan coalitions to address/resolve pressing issues, and the political parties need to follow us and not lead with their interests: having power over their members.
Joan, Considering our party currently is leaderless, I am pressing for Wikler as DNC Chair because he has been deeply engaged in grassroots work across Wisconsin. His hands-on approach and commitment to going door to door, listening to voters in every neighborhood, has made him a skilled organizer and “vote-getting guru.” His activism spans both the ground and online, connecting with people year-round.
I further would note, as Wisconsin Democratic Chair since 2019, Wikler has overseen the party’s rebuilding after years of Republican dominance in the state. He successfully organized and mobilized voters in a state where Republicans had rigged the system to maintain control. Under his leadership, Wisconsin Democrats achieved significant victories in 2024, including gaining four congressional seats, holding onto their Senate seat, breaking the GOP supermajority in the state Senate, and winning ten additional seats in the state Assembly. With a focus on flipping both chambers in 2026 and potentially winning a trifecta if they also win the governorship that year, momentum is clearly on their side.
As a final point, I would mention, in a recent New York Times interview, Wikler expressed his goal to bring the same kind of transformation to the National Democratic Party that he brought to Wisconsin.
It will only take one massive protest against trump to go wrong, with violence from armed maga supporters, for trump to call Marshal law. Our democracy will be over, with blood on our streets.
💓Reich💓:"Ultimately, some 10 million homeowners lost their homes to foreclosure. This was not an inevitable result of the financial crisis. It was a policy choice."
Me:"Ultimately, some 16.6 million Americans lost their fight against depression to suicidality in 2022. This was not an inevitable result of any crisis. It was a policy choice."😱😳😰
Why did America vote for the Mass Murderer** over the First Lady's FREE HEALTHCARE and FREEDOM FROM FEAR?*
Why did Americans put the Mass Murderers pill in their mouth and swallow it*** 2.3 billion times in ONE YEAR?
Why did America ignore Ms.FDR. and believe the Mass Murder's "our pills aren't addictive?"
*science
**science denial by Purdue Pharma(used Valium sales to launch the opioid epidemic)
***Valium was the most prescribed medication for the years 1969-1982
*Eleanor Roosevelt:"Do one thing every day that scares you."
Note: by "vote" I mean "economic vote"(aka "buy the pills of")...or even "give up on the science of anxiety: Exposure Therapy"
"ALL Americans know the word Valium... few Americans know the word Exposure ...NONE DO IT DAILY "
The scientific consensus agrees. Two top scientists' statements may be available on request.
Nice impossible Christmas wish list. The hope that Biden can do something, that is. We must not give up hope though. The people of South Korea and Poland are hopeful examples. It will take people power to resist Trump who is a fascist to the core. The key is to get out and protest, now and through the inauguration. We must stand up for the rights of the least powerful, like immigrants, by organizing and fighting back.
Very well said. I live on disability and honestly do not know where to start. But I am against this government. I voted for Harris. And I believe this election was rigged. Happened way too fast for me. I will gladly stand proudly with those opposing this government and will try to follow the same path as I do for the sake of our beloved democracy.
If Biden or Harris don't act immediately...history and the world will hold them solely and personally responsible for the destruction of this Republic and... in the end very possibly our present civilization. Not an exaggeration, when factoring in nuclear threats, climate disasters, financial upheavals, world starvation, resource scarcity, monumental income and resource inequities, biological warfare, climate change related viral releases and more. We are children focused on greed, power, personal indulgences when we should be focused on the bigger issues regarding our world and our species' survival.
History has proven that civilizations can't endure the multitude of challenges faced when so many are unable to recognize the multitude of dangers and kiss off the actions necessary to combat them. Technology will not save the billions, only perhaps the millions that can afford the protections that tech can provide...but for how long they should ask themselves... and under what conditions.
I fear neither Biden or Harris have the courage and/or maybe... the desire to do what they should.
**Open message to President Joe Biden,**
Dear President Biden,
You assured us of a "peaceful transfer of power," yet it feels as though a fascist dictator is being installed in the Oval Office.
With all due respect, Mr. President,
This deeply troubles me.
Trump declared that he would arrest anyone who opposes him, labeling them as enemies within.
My God,
Mr. President, you have the authority to stop Trump.
If we do not act now, we risk becoming a fascist dictatorship for generations to come.
Mr. President, I urge you to address the charges of treason and remove Trump's corrupted judges from the Supreme Court, as well as all those in Congress who support his efforts to overturn the 2020 election and his violent insurrection against the United States.
After January 20, 2025, we may never have another opportunity to halt Trump's ambitions.
This is our final chance to prevent a dictatorial takeover of our nation.
The United States Constitution states that
"The punishment for treason is a minimum of five years in prison, a fine of at least $10,000, and the loss of the right to hold public office."
There is one more person who deserves to be pardoned. Mr.Snowden lives in Russia because as a “whistle blower , protecting Americans against being spied on by their own government , he was targeted by many who today pretend trumps treason isn’t real???????? If this hypocrisy keeps these goons in power I move out. Nothing one can say makes sending Edward Snowden to a permanent life in Russia legal. Nothing. Nothing… don’t even say it, NOTHING. And Pres.Biden helped that happen. Shame!☠️😱
Good one ! djt's election seems surreal. As far from a conspiracy theorist as can be, there's still this lingering doubt as to the viability of that election. And if President Biden did as you ask ? I'd be 100+% in support and relieved ! !
Yes, Biden could have called for recounts, but he couldn’t make them happen. Each state runs its own elections, and has its own rules governing recounts. It’s not a federal matter.
Treason by anyone should be punished. So let's start with Joe Biden, Hunter Biden, Jim Biden and Comey and then Obama, Clapper, Brennan and Swallwell then Schiff. There are many more involved in the phoney dossier paid for by Hillary campaign. Mayorkas should be on the list, maybe first on the list. Let's go.
Yegads, and here I thought the MAGAt trolls, would go away with the election of Trump. We certainly live in an Orwellian world now, where patriots are deemed traitors.
You failed mention the treason Trump committed before, during and after the January 6th attack against the US Congress, attempted coup, and BIG LIE of a stolen election.
Professor Reich: wow, eye-opening and thought-provoking. it also explains why i love elizabeth and bernie so much and had hoped they (or elizabeth, at least) would run for the presidency. (by the way, i love referring to her as elizabeth "I HAVE A PLAN!" warren, because saying this always makes me smile and also reminds me that here is a genuine warrior woman who thinks and plans and is optimistic and who is worthy of our support.)
but here we are, facing the worst fascist take-over of the country in my lifetime, by power-hungry oligarchs. i know so many people who worship money and power as surely as they once worshiped christ or whatever else was their motivator in life, and it's terrifying. i'm not sure if we had an army of elizabeth "I HAVE A PLAN!" warrens who are willing and able to fight for us, if americans would support them or fight alongside them.
I’ve supported Bernie and Liz’s runs for POTUS. Either would’ve changed the paradigm and focus of Washington elected officials catering to the 1% versus the 99%.
I’m looking forward to the next Democrat for POTUS that fits their mold. If we don’t find one, our democracy will be lost forever to the GOP crooks and liars.
Papa, I am watching Ben Wikler, Gavin Newsom, Pete Buttigieg, Liz Cheney, Adam Kinzinger and Jamie Raskin. I would definitely support Bernie or Elizabeth; however, I don't think they will ever run for president again. We absolutely need a better voice that actually LISTENS to the peoples' concerns, issues and needs. We need someone who will tell the richy rich to go pound sand and not accept their dark money. We need someone who will get in there and do away with Citizens United, the Electoral College and replace, even stronger, every single guardrail we had before the republicans tore them down. We need someone who will clean up the supreme court and get rid of those justices who were criminal in their actions.
For democracy also, end Filibuster, change Senatorial Representation (more than 2 based on population) and end gerrymandering. Look at what the state GOP just did to NC Governor. Essentially neutered him.
I feel we’ve fallen too far into the GOP gaming of the “rules” and norms, to dig our democracy out from in one or two election cycles. Unless Trump has a devastatingly horrible term sufficient to awaken his disciples to the truth of his idiocy, criminality, debauchery, and venality, assuming they don’t cheer those qualities themselves, I don’t see an escape from this devolution.
I haven’t lost hope, yet suspect we’ll suffer far more deeply as a Nation, before we leave behind the carnage I anticipate.
It may take an externality like climate change to bring change we want, or it may make governance worse. Hard to say.
Or if Trump tanks the economy which is a real possibility and is seen that way -remember unemployment at the end of his last term was the highest since the Great Depression and he was extremely unpopular- that may help to get us out of this mess, some.
The main hope i have is that the world is always more creative than I am. But as far as my thoughts go, its grim city man.
Papa, it takes 2/3rds of the Senate to get rid of the filibuster. Schumer has had the nuclear option and never used it. It is all moot now, There is no significant legislation before the Senate and thee will be none until the 119th Congress, save budget and spending authorization.
The Republicans in the senate would never have voted to repeal the filibuster, but can't say the same for the Democrats in the new Republican controlled Senate,lots of self serving turncoats, Manchin and Sinema were their cover,so they didn't have to expose themselves.
And if the Democrats try to filibuster, you can be sure that Senator Thune will pull the nuclear option.
Until states like ruby red Wyoming, population 600,000, with two Senators versus California predominantly blue, population 43 million, also two Senators, obtain equitable Senatorial representation, we will continue to have a minority of the US population having greater Senatorial representation than the majority of the population. This, the Electoral College, and gerrymandering, must end to achieve a fair majority ruling electorate.
I agree Papa, but I can't think of a viable solution Can you?
The political situation is a mess. A compromise hacked together by men, as they sought to find a solution to a problem. And the problem being: How to get everyone to sign on to an agreement. The states with a scarce and spread out population, felt that they were at the mercy of more populous states, and the two senators per state was suppose to give the lesser states a counter countvailing power against the more populous states who would have more representation in the Senate. as was the 2/3rds if a person count for slaves, as representation in the house was based on population count.
The purpose of the first census (1790- 1820) was to determine how many people lived in a district to determine representation in the house.
The 1790 census enumerated males over 16, males under 16, free whites and slaves. 16 was the age in which males became eligible for conscription into militias, subsequent years that broke down the population by age, and by 1850 used further categories like "read and write" and "idiot"
By the way in 1790 there were only two states that didn't have any slaves,Maine and Massachusetts
The only way to change the constitution, both representation in congress and the electoral college is via a constitutional convention, and that would require a 3/4th majority of the states, the same amount needed to amend the constitution.
There are 13 states with only one or two representatives in the House
Getting 3/4's of the states to agree to such a change will be impossible.
What you are saying here is we must repeat a revolution in the U.S. that will work even better than 1776. Dreaming of one leader doesn't help when facing a tribe of oligarchs.
Think about it. That one leader can unite the various factions that are fighting for the same thing - our Democracy. If that one person can bring everyone together, yes, we could have a revolution without firing a single shot! There are so many different organizations, PACs and groups that are working toward that end; however, it is disjointed. This organization is fighting that and this PAC is fighting this. If every American that wants to see our Democracy survive and progress came together, our voice would be more powerful than the orange man and his sycophants - more powerful than the billionaires and the mega-corporations. We would be heard and that one leader would let the orange man and all of them know this is America and we are a Democracy, not a dictatorship.
The MUCH "better voice" exists/existed in the person of non-PAC, progressive Democratic presidential candidate, Marianne Williamson, but the corporate centrist Democrats politically ran her off the road and left her for dead, along with millions of other people. And the Democrats' mainstream news lackeys completely shut her out from the start of her campaign in March 2023. I also made a number of posts about her for Mr. Reich's substack and YT channel, and subsequent posts of his showed me that they were ignored.
I'll even go so far as to say that the murder of the United CEO likely would not have happened if the Democrats had not undemocratically silenced Williamson [and others]. Her entire platform was about drastically reworking or dismantling all the "industrial complexes", and certainly the conflict of interest, for-profit healthcare business must be dismantled. Part of the silencing was FOUR cancelled primaries to kill any Biden competition. And without the benefit of the voice of "the people", i.e. an open convention, the Democrats undemocratically annointed Kamala Harris as the nominee.
I hope it's not too late. Would you read my substack I just submitted about my hearing with the administrative law judge concerning the Medicare Advantage denial, Maximus role, and give me your experienced opinion?
I hate to say this but the odds as a pro se person are slim to none. I don't know who the judge is but the odds that she will actually write the decision are also virtually nil. They use "decision writers."
The best lawyers would hand me a propsed decision (in digital form) to try to avoid the use of decision writers. They don't even listen to the hearing tape.
On the merits, the big thing is that you were initially approved, so the burden of proof should be on the company. It was up to them to PROVE a case, not you.
We may really need a non-affiliated person to lead our nation, who is not beholden to the corporate gang embedded in our governance and both major parties to date.
Nailed it! I heart Elizabeth! I love everything about her. I actually had a House Party for her. I went to Warren Night School and took notes. She really did have a good plan for practically everything.
On the night McCain gave the famous thumb down on ending the ACA, several Dem Senators came outside to speak to a couple hundred people who had gathered on the Capital Grounds. Warren gave the most sincere, hopeful and inspiring speech. At one point, Senator Warren was taking a picture several people. She looked at me standing nearby and said, "get in here!" I sure wish I had gotten a copy of that picture.
It was a roller-coaster of a night. At one point, a limo came rolling up with VP Pence to cast the tie-breaking vote. It really did go down to the wire. Without McCain taking a stand for saving the ACA, it would've been history... Without the notion of a concept of a plan to replace the ACA.
I met some really amazing people in the days around that vote, including "Spitfire." She was in a wheelchair and had been arrested over 40 times protesting for healthcare. For her, the vote was a matter of life and death, living at home or in a hospital. Spitfire, Warren and McCain were my new heros.
This was a really great two-piece story by Sec. Reich, IMO. He nailed it. This one story is worth the monthly 5 bucks.
I promise to renew my subscription as soon as I get my back pay or sell some belongings. It's been rough due to an injury. On the night McCain saved the ACA, I didn't know my life would be one of the 40,000 lives a YEAR that the ACA saves.
If DOGE wants to save over $300 Billion a year, I suggest simply cutting out the unnecessary middle man, health insurance companies, and switch to a Single Payer, Medicare For All system, like the rest of the industrialized world. $300 Billion over 10 years is $3 Trillion?
Another way to save a lot is to stop spending so much on satellites that add air pollution, increase greenhouse gasses, and will put a hole in the ozone the size of Texas. After all, seniors need Social Security more than wasteful government contracts and silly Mars exploration. For real!
Musk and the tech bros in Silicon Valley remind me of the adage
"the farther away you are from a problem the easier it is to fix."
Look at the US map.
My guess is Musk will wear out his welcome pretty quick. There's a reason corporate boards have gotten rid of him.
People here should consider whether they want to be on twitter. The more who leave it the more Musk is sapped of strength and twitter/X can end up a rightwing site like Truth Social that many companies will not advertise on.
Besides, Musk controls the twitter "battlefield". Try Bluesky https://bsky.app/
Danny Piper, I love everything you just wrote here! What a positive spirit you have! Right ON!!! And you’re right about the bloated middle man in medicine. I’m old enough to remember the medical world before all that (I worked in pediatrics) and it was so much better. Keep writing, Danny Piper!
I still have my Bernie and Warren magnets all over my refrigerator ❤️
We are so blessed to still have Elizabeth Warren in Massachusetts. I would have died happy if either of them were POTUS! Instead.....it looks like my death will take place in The Upside-Down, with monsters screaming in the perpetual dark 💀
To put it in layman terms, in our country today, it’s an upside down funnel with a strong vacuum at the top that is sucking all the money from the bottom 90% to the very narrow end of the funnel at the top! Decency and respect are being replaced by greed and corruption. Trickle down economics was the ridiculous fantasy that the Republicans endorsed with Reagan and it’s been a down hill slide ever since for the average American.
Your argument on this is excellent. The "rot at the top" is exactly what you say. I would only add this to it: The rot's other mechanism is consumption, the promotion of consumption combined with planned obsolescence, and the consumed are the natural resources of the planet. The rot consumes people, yes, and it also consumes forests, farmland, swamps, lakes streams, rivers and ocean. It produces filth and poisons, and that is where our world is headed now.
The "top that is rot" has a term for what you call "filth and poisons:" "EXTERNALITIES."
See how the rot tries to muck up our thinking. They well know the rotten crap they are killing us with, but by putting it in an "external" frame, they are conning us.
The ROTTERS are saying:
"Those filth and poisons that are spreading across the globe, raising global temperatures, destroying all natural living things including humanity. That stuff? Gosh, we don't know nuthin. Must be something EXTERNAL."
Wayne Teel, "filth and poisons" of some people have desecrated and killed our beautiful nature and wildllife. Very sadly, the "filth and poisons" (the rampant egos) are about to stampede and destroy all of us.
I agree that you can use the term, filth and poisons, for people, but I was really referring to things like neonicotinoids, a broad spectrum of agricultural toxins, heavy metals, forever chemicals, and plastic, the externalized costs of production in a consumer society.
Thank you, Professor Reich! I would love to see what you have written so clearly and plainly put on every single news feed, in every single way that information is being sent now-a-days, in every single newspaper! By giving carte blanche to the wealthy by Reagan, our government has transformed our country into the ultra wealthy and the poor. The middle working class is so tiny it's almost miniscule! Americans have been fed a lot of bullshit in the form of platitudes by both the republicans and democrats for so many years while the wealthy and big corporations began to rape and pillage our country for their own benefit. What Reagan was so wrong about was that super wealthy do NOT believe in the common good and they never have. Their greed and thirst for power prevents feelings of unity, good will, caring for neighbors and helping anyone else other than themselves! I'd like any democrat or republican to tell the hard-working middle and lower classes that they can achieve everything they want by simply working hard. Tell that to the guy that holds down 3 even 4 jobs in order to pay for housing, food and family. Tell that to the senior citizen who lives on such a fixed income, they end up eating the cheapest food they can find (yes, sometimes cat food!) and sit in the dark with a blanket in the cold or a hand fan in the heat!, Tell that to the kid who graduated high school but can't afford technical school or college because of the cost, can't afford to leave home because the job he does get, the pay is minimal with no room for saving. Yes, the republicans and democrats have screwed our nation and I am so very angry about it! They can sit up there in Washington and cut this and that because it doesn't mean a tinker's damn to them! They are rich, they have great health care and absolutely do NOT care about the average citizen who put them where they are! Yes, there is a big change coming and it is not going to be pretty! When MAGA cult followers and those Americans who simply did not vote get a dose of reality once the orange man begins his reign of terror, the anger and frustration that so many of us are feeling right now will be felt by them, and Lord love a duck, the 'you know what' will hit the fan!
The possible Executive Orders Donald J. Trump may sign after January 20, 2025
When Trump assumes office again, here are potential controversial orders that could test constitutional boundaries, ignite civil unrest, and challenge democratic norms:
1. Immigration Enforcement and Border Security
• Mass Deportation Policies: Accelerating deportations through enhanced immigration enforcement, possibly targeting DACA recipients despite ongoing legal protections.
• Revisiting Travel Bans: Expanding bans on individuals from predominantly Muslim-majority countries or other regions under the guise of national security.
• Militarization of the Border: Deploying more troops or empowering state militias with federal support to enforce immigration laws.
2. Election Reform and Federal Oversight
• Federal Control of Elections: Issuing orders to “safeguard” elections, such as mandating voter ID laws or restricting mail-in voting, which could disproportionately affect certain communities and undermine trust in elections.
• Investigations into Election “Fraud”: Reopening investigations or establishing commissions targeting past election processes, potentially stoking partisan tensions.
3. Criminalizing Dissent
• Crackdowns on Protests: Expanding penalties for protesters or limiting the scope of First Amendment protections under the pretext of ensuring public safety.
• Surveillance of Opposition Groups: Increasing surveillance and monitoring of organizations labeled as “domestic threats,” particularly progressive or activist groups.
4. Targeting the Media
• Defamation or Anti-Misinformation Rules: Executive orders aimed at curtailing media “misinformation” but selectively targeting outlets critical of his administration, challenging First Amendment protections.
5. Federalizing Culture Wars
• Education Policies: Mandating curricula that emphasize “patriotic education,” restricting content related to race, gender, or LGBTQ+ issues in federally funded schools.
• Anti-Transgender Directives: Prohibiting federal recognition of transgender individuals’ rights in sports, healthcare, or education, provoking backlash and legal challenges.
6. Foreign Policy by Fiat
• Unilateral Military Actions: Ordering military strikes or actions without congressional approval, bypassing constitutional checks on war powers.
• Withdrawing from International Agreements: Abruptly exiting treaties or alliances, such as NATO, which could destabilize international relations.
7. Expanded Executive Power
• Challenging Judicial Oversight: Ignoring or circumventing federal court rulings that block his policies, escalating tensions between branches of government.
• Curtailing Civil Service Protections: Reinstating Schedule F, enabling him to fire career civil servants perceived as obstacles to his agenda.
Potential Outcomes and Civil Unrest:
• Polarized Reactions: Actions perceived as autocratic or targeting marginalized groups could trigger protests, strikes, and clashes between supporters and opponents.
• Legal and Institutional Crises: Courts and Congress may challenge the legality of certain orders, leading to constitutional confrontations.
• Erosion of Norms: Attempts to consolidate power or undermine democratic processes could deepen political divides and spark broader social unrest.
Each could provoke fierce opposition and strain the resilience and at the same time provoke U.S. democratic institutions and the military.
The super-rich and GOP are grabbing for the brass ring of Total Fascist Power. They see Trump as their very last chance. They don't care about law or deaths or poverty or suffering, they only care about power.
The possible Executive Orders Donald J. Trump may sign after January 20, 2025
When Trump assumes office again, here are potential controversial orders that could test constitutional boundaries, ignite civil unrest, and challenge democratic norms:
1. Immigration Enforcement and Border Security
• Mass Deportation Policies: Accelerating deportations through enhanced immigration enforcement, possibly targeting DACA recipients despite ongoing legal protections.
• Revisiting Travel Bans: Expanding bans on individuals from predominantly Muslim-majority countries or other regions under the guise of national security.
• Militarization of the Border: Deploying more troops or empowering state militias with federal support to enforce immigration laws.
2. Election Reform and Federal Oversight
• Federal Control of Elections: Issuing orders to “safeguard” elections, such as mandating voter ID laws or restricting mail-in voting, which could disproportionately affect certain communities and undermine trust in elections.
• Investigations into Election “Fraud”: Reopening investigations or establishing commissions targeting past election processes, potentially stoking partisan tensions.
3. Criminalizing Dissent
• Crackdowns on Protests: Expanding penalties for protesters or limiting the scope of First Amendment protections under the pretext of ensuring public safety.
• Surveillance of Opposition Groups: Increasing surveillance and monitoring of organizations labeled as “domestic threats,” particularly progressive or activist groups.
4. Targeting the Media
• Defamation or Anti-Misinformation Rules: Executive orders aimed at curtailing media “misinformation” but selectively targeting outlets critical of his administration, challenging First Amendment protections.
5. Federalizing Culture Wars
• Education Policies: Mandating curricula that emphasize “patriotic education,” restricting content related to race, gender, or LGBTQ+ issues in federally funded schools.
• Anti-Transgender Directives: Prohibiting federal recognition of transgender individuals’ rights in sports, healthcare, or education, provoking backlash and legal challenges.
6. Foreign Policy by Fiat
• Unilateral Military Actions: Ordering military strikes or actions without congressional approval, bypassing constitutional checks on war powers.
• Withdrawing from International Agreements: Abruptly exiting treaties or alliances, such as NATO, which could destabilize international relations.
7. Expanded Executive Power
• Challenging Judicial Oversight: Ignoring or circumventing federal court rulings that block his policies, escalating tensions between branches of government.
• Curtailing Civil Service Protections: Reinstating Schedule F, enabling him to fire career civil servants perceived as obstacles to his agenda.
Potential Outcomes and Civil Unrest:
• Polarized Reactions: Actions perceived as autocratic or targeting marginalized groups could trigger protests, strikes, and clashes between supporters and opponents.
• Legal and Institutional Crises: Courts and Congress may challenge the legality of certain orders, leading to constitutional confrontations.
• Erosion of Norms: Attempts to consolidate power or undermine democratic processes could deepen political divides and spark broader social unrest.
Each could provoke fierce opposition and provoke U.S. democratic institutions and the military.
What an excellent piece. I’ve always focused on legal and economic trends, but didn’t understand the politics. The super wealthy have bought themselves a government ready to give them substantially more economic and political power. No more congressional inquiries into violations of privacy, free speech, free press, and other civil rights. They’ve bought themselves the Presidency, the Supreme Court, and Congress. The rest of us are left to serve them as they see fit. No wonder Musk, steeped in an apartheid values, gleefully jumps up and down like a two year old. Christmas came early.
The new American tragedy is that even all of this power won’t be enough to satiate the wealthiest. I so much want to see the return of unionization, which counter balanced the basest instincts of 19th century robber barrons, the same instincts alive in our economy today. I wouldn’t be surprised if next we see the military used against strikers and organized labor (remember the Pinkertons?). It used to be government’s role was to shield Americans from corporate excess and corruption. This new administration plans to shield the wealthy from American citizens. We need to act now.
What evidence is there that Elon Musk knows anything about efficiency? His takeover of Twitter was catastrophic, firing huge swaths of people and then realizing they were needed and having to hire them back, ultimately making "X" an uglier and more deceitful platform and a sliver of its former self. Tesla can't move cybertrucks to the point they're paying people to stay home. Any NASA operation that crashed as many rockets as SpaceX would have been shut down long ago. The only thing he brings to the table is his ability to financially power through his bad decision making, the essence of inefficiency.
Any candidate who tells the truth will be primaried , if they are still in office. Attacked in ads, proliferating at the speed of light, making the candidate a target as well, of the Mob. The money is a big bully.
Ipso facto. And when rather than the occasional mention of some far off dream of the recinding of Citizens United, some concrete and actual legislation to do so is enacted by a progressive, honest, unbought official, I'll believe there a glimmer of light at the end of this long, dark, corrupted tunnel. I shalln't hold my breath.
"The way to make the tax code fair is to make big corporations and the very wealthy finally pay their share. In 2020 55 of the biggest companies in America made $40 Billion in profits and paid zero in federal income taxes.
"Not any more!
"Thanks to the law I wrote and signed big companies now have to pay a minimum of 15%. But that’s still less than working people pay in federal taxes. It’s time to raise the corporate minimum tax to at least 21% so every big corporation finally begins to pay their fair share. I also want to end the tax breaks for Big Pharma, Big Oil, private jets, and massive executive pay!
"End it now!
"There are 1,000 billionaires in America. You know what the average federal tax rate for these billionaires is? 8.2 percent! That’s far less than the vast majority of Americans pay. No billionaire should pay a lower tax rate than a teacher, a sanitation worker, a nurse! That’s why I’ve proposed a minimum tax of 25% for billionaires. Just 25%. That would raise $500 Billion over the next 10 years.
"Imagine what that could do for America. Imagine a future with affordable child care so millions of families can get the care they need and still go to work and help grow the economy.
"Imagine a future with paid leave because no one should have to choose between working and taking care of yourself or a sick family member.
"Imagine a future with home care and elder care so seniors and people living with disabilities can stay in their homes and family caregivers get paid what they deserve!"
President Joe Biden — State of the Union Address 2024
I agree Dems need to name the real problem, but I don't think it's enough. They must also admit to some party and personal responsibility for our mess. And apologize. And after giving examples of how they have changed and are working on changing, ask for the opportunity to earn the people's trust again.
It's just so inconceivable now. So much of that was on a foundation of COMPANY benefits! Health care and retirement plan and reasonable expectation of a long-term deal. Now company people are applying for food stamps. In my lifetime, it's hard to get my head around how much the thumbscrews have tightened. The old frog is pretty well cooked.
Like. As the daughter of a Mom "born a Bircher and died a Birther," I don't even see any new insight, apologies to the Prof. Trump has merely tapped into a sales pitch feeding a Great American Tradition what they already knew and wanted to hear. Crafty Jews and lazy blacks and slutty females just wanting into your wallet, while they murder babies just to get their jollies. What's new? Maybe voter suppression and precision gerrymandering after Trump sabotaged the last Census? I left out "Irish need not apply," you know: furriners. Papists. (or Muslims, or the other fancy "raghead," what, not Muslim??? Who cares.
Now they even kill women who wanted their babies, but had miscarriages that were no fault of their own. They refuse to allow standard emergency medical care for that common outcome. If they can conflate the loss of a pregnancy with abortion : ignorance and hate are the weapons against women : 'just' because they can. Innocent women and girls are being murdered in the United States of America. This should be a bigger story in all media. It should be stopped. Miscarriage is NOT abortion! It is a tragedy that is heartbreaking for those expecting.
Of course, the oldest story of all is about Eve. God could have just punished Eve for her transgression(which isn't really clear; maybe just being female to start with) but it cursed all women to suffer for all time. Fast forward to the 20th Century, and the story, at its foundation, is still, females are inherently promiscuous, seductive, untrustworthy, conniving, and predatory especially for a male's pocketbook. I inherited a boxful of the little Erle Stanley Gardner pulp paperbacks (mostly Perry Mason) from my Dad. A full curriculum in Women's Studies could be structured around Gardner's work. I just finished "The Case of the Turning Tide" from 1941. (pre-Perry M.?) Not elegant literature; highly entertaining, but boy do I ask myself from time to time, is this really how men still experience women? Less lipstick, same dangerous slut (same high heels!)
Men respect, even worship, power. Women have power over them, and they resent that. Nobody resents women more than priest serving male deities.They see women as rivals.
Dude, women have health problems that make it impossible to carry to term sometimes. Do you know how many women are addicted to drugs and cannot stop? Thousands and thousands!
Sadly, one outcome is premature birth due to drug and alcohol use. Do you realize that the 1st month of a life spent in the NICU costs 1 MILLION dollars? You ready to pick up that bill and saddle taxpayers with BILLONS?
Then the infant can have severe health problems for life. Do you really want to force women with health complications to carry if it will kill the mother?
You want to force drug addicted women to have drug addicted babies that cost taxpayers ONE MILLION a MONTH? Who is woke? Wake the F UP!
Mind your own business. If you don't want to have an abortion, don't! Just keep your ill-advised moral ideas out of women's lives because you have no idea what health problem they could be and ARE experiencing.
Danny Piper, brilliant, again! And exactly right. I also worked in a NICU, at Duke. Saw those exact babies and mothers you are talking about. There can be good outcomes, but also stupid, costly mistaken efforts. Decisions should be up to doctor and mother and everybody else should stay out of it.
Oh, dear. Whatever it is calling itself John mcGrath only WANTED to jerk somebody's chain for fun. But you do reference the most gruesome "cruelty is the point" outcome: women forced to carry to term knowing the baby is doomed, and they are doomed to watch while the baby suffers dying slowly after birth.
Trump, his corrupt family, and his billionaires buddies (why in the hell do you think they are lining up to join the FINANCIAL RAPE of America) = get as much money from as many sources as you can. Stuff yourself off the American people. Tell them they have to sacrifice, while you take more and more and more........and blame others as to why the people have to suffer. (Notice Trump has ALREADY gone back on making groceries more affordable and like the LIAR he is blamed something else. Use people and then discard them - the Trump motto.). Privatize and make money and take control or if you can't do that, Dismantle and get it out of the way so you can make more money and take control! Notice son Eric has already gone overseas to keep the Trump family greed rolling. Don't believe for one minute it is to "serve" America. This gang of thugs and goons ONLY care about taking care of and "serving" themselves. And I am sure in their private moments laugh and howl about how they were able to con over 70 million people to give them the keys.
**Open message to President Joe Biden,**
Dear President Biden,
You assured us of a "peaceful transfer of power," yet it feels as though a fascist dictator is being installed in the Oval Office.
With all due respect, Mr. President,
This deeply troubles me.
Trump declared that he would arrest anyone who opposes him, labeling them as enemies within.
My God,
Mr. President, you have the authority to stop Trump.
If we do not act now, we risk becoming a fascist dictatorship for generations to come.
Mr. President, I urge you to address the charges of treason and remove Trump's corrupted judges from the Supreme Court, as well as all those in Congress who support his efforts to overturn the 2020 election and his violent insurrection against the United States.
After January 20, 2025, we may never have another opportunity to halt Trump's ambitions.
This is our final chance to prevent a dictatorial takeover of our nation.
The United States Constitution states that
"The punishment for treason is a minimum of five years in prison, a fine of at least $10,000, and the loss of the right to hold public office."
With all due respect, Mr. President,
why is this NOT happening?
Thank you for listening.
(ATTENTION PEOPLE
IF YOU AGREE THEN, PLEASE IMMEDIATELY
Tell THE WHITE HOUSE
AND RE-POST THIS MESSAGE.)
Biden needs to report on Russian interference ASAP! We are the victims of the Russian war on the USA. Putin admits he did it and demands quid pro quo from Trump. As far as I'm concerned the admission is dispositive and is actionalble and constitutes an emergency.
In 2023, U.S. Citizens and Russian Intelligence Officers Charged with Conspiring to Use U.S. Citizens as Illegal Agents of the Russian Government. https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/us-citizens-and-russian-intelligence-officers-charged-conspiring-use-us-citizens-illegal “Today’s announcement paints a harrowing picture of Russian government actions and the lengths to which the FSB will go to interfere with our elections, sow discord in our nation and ultimately recruit U.S citizens to their efforts,” said Acting Assistant Director Kurt Ronnow of the FBI’s Counterintelligence Division. “All Americans should be deeply concerned by the tactics employed by the FSB and remain vigilant to any attempt to undermine our democracy. The FBI remains committed to confronting this egregious behavior and ultimately disrupting our adversaries and those who act on their behalf.”
On Sept. 4, 60 days before the election, An indictment charging Russian nationals Kostiantyn Kalashnikov, 31, also known as Kostya, and Elena Afanasyeva, 27, also known as Lena, with conspiracy to violate the Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA) and conspiracy to commit money laundering was unsealed today in the Southern District of New York. Kalashnikov and Afanasyeva are at large.
“The Justice Department has charged two employees of RT, a Russian state-controlled media outlet, in a $10 million scheme to create and distribute content to U.S. audiences with hidden Russian government messaging,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “The Justice Department will not tolerate attempts by an authoritarian regime to exploit our country’s free exchange of ideas in order to covertly further its own propaganda efforts, and our investigation into this matter remains ongoing.”
Threats to election workers, propaganda about violence, burning of ballots. Bomb threats.
Investigation will stop once Trump gets in.
Doubtless Trump has helped launder billions for poisoner Putin over the past 2 decades.
What is really troubling is the extent to which Republicans in Congress either don't know or their short-term rationalizations (OMG I'm going to be primaried!)
allow for the growing influence and threat from Putin.
Not only must we contend with capitalism gone wild creating a plutocracy, but also with a plutocracy somewhat blinded to the threat from adversaries.
Has to be immediate. I laid out the recent history. IMHO this is an emergency.....
If the election was corrupted, many remedies.
what would Biden do other than report on it to the public? Do you want a re-do of the election or something? You and I likely agree Obama was largely MIA on this in 2015. My view is that Obama did not trust the American public. And he got played.
Only recount where probable cause is proven. Everything can be put on hold re recent SCOTUS pronouncements.
Never up never in. We are on the road to a totalitarian dictatorship. No Congress. No court system.
Historical recall is relative. It depends on the sympathy, the ideology of the persons.
Here is some of what I recall. I read a book in the 1980's, I thought it was "Here is the rest of me" about Reagan. In it is related that Reagan would sit behind the Resolute desk, with sagging cheeks, greyed flesh, almost lifeless, until one of his aides put a script in front of him, and the came alive, blood rushed to his cheeks, his eyes brightened, he sat upright, and his skin tightened. That's what I remember.
I also remember being a Shop steward in 1990's when Clinton was president, and having a falling out with the union staff, because I
called out Clinton for betraying us and his base. The Omnibus crime bill, the Telecommunications Act, Defense of Marriage act, Don't ask don't tell, NAFTA, GATT, the Repeal of Glass Steagall with the signThe Graham-Leach-Bliley Act that President Clinton signed in 1999 had everything to do with the crisis of 2008, which Obama bailed out the banks, but not the consumer in 2009
Clintons signing statement on the GLBA
chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://www.sechistorical.org/collection/papers/1990/1999_1108_ClintonGramm.pdf
And there is the rest of the story.
This is why Trump wants a fascist to head the armed forces.As of now, they are polarized, Hegseth says.
Daniel, as far as I know, there is no exit. Can we get rid of this wild bunch of idiots and amateurish administrators? Please name one remedy!!!
Can put everything on hold per recent SCOTUS decisions.
To cover, needs probable cause.
Interesting, but what is it? Should Biden stay on because the probable cause is administrative and commercial chaos in the first weeks of Trump's governing? And prosecuting of old enemies?And What then...? Civil war ?
The media machines and short attention spans have already tossed this and it's not going to get the attention it deserves. That's the system we're in. Huge tech and Fox News and pliant corporations.
Only need Biden's attention.
This may be the end of Democracy.
It sure doesn't look to me like Biden is going to act in accordance with the threat we're all facing.
You are right, Daniel. Since you cannot undo what happened, our only real hope is that Trump will discredit himself and his coalition. Already, he has admitted that he will NOT be able to lower prices. This means that he will have to double down on deportations and scapegoating, and will create chaos and discontent. The electoral results of 20226 and 2028 is what we must be concerned about now. We must make it absolutely clear that we will defend the Constitution.
Daniel, I fear that treason no longer is an impeachable crime in the US, not a crime at all if Trump denies it.
The extent to which the Putin regime manipulated the election is , I believe far more serious than currently supposed. Putin's Russia is being bled dry by his war against the Ukraine, and there was no higher priority for him than to get the Democratic Party out of power and install a friendly Trump regime. There were no lengths to which Putin would go to see Trump in office..
Dale, While I, too, am deeply troubled that a plurality of the electorate has voted Trump into power, I question whether the authority you attribute to Biden exists. Hence, as a start, I offer two modest but feasible proposals that I deem necessary though admittedly not sufficient. Accordingly, I emphasize, “as a start.”
1) Using our local constituent power, contact our representatives up and down the ballot, many of whom are DNC voting members, and urge them to endorse Wisconsin Democratic Chair Ben Wikler for Chair of the Democratic National Committee. I would note, contrary to the other candidates who, in my view, would perpetuate the status quo in national politics, Wikler would firmly position Democrats as advocates for working families across the country. He also would focus on improving the Party’s messaging, training and deploying effective communicators to reach voters on every platform, in every place.
2) Summoning one’s local constituent power, join one of the several grassroots groups currently organizing to try and ensure the agenda the Trump regime aims to impose federally does not conflict with a person’s freedoms and rights within states. My top pick is Indivisible that I believe is engaged in the most effective nationwide effort to resist the infiltration of MAGA thinking into our states and local communities. Quoting Indivisible’s co-founders, both of whom are former congressional aids, “Our best chance to get through this era with some amount of democracy intact is to hang on until 2026 and win big in the midterms—breaking Trump’s hold on Congress and making sure election deniers and saboteurs aren’t in charge of the 2028 elections. We’ve boiled it down to three big plays…” For more on Indivisible, visit indivisible.org
You can also help people to vote through joining the League of Women Voters in your state.
"Vote for me and you will never have to vote again". DJT
The day he swears the oath, he will sign the hundreds of executive orders that have already been drafted, and set in motion the plan detailed in Project 2025, which will make voting irrelevant.
William, Irrelevant only if we accept the premise that together we don’t have the power to fight back and win.
Biden may be the last hope.
Finance capitalism may yet come to our rescue. They may prefer Singapore over Russia.
Yes, William. They will try it,but that does not mean that they will succeed.
Good point, Steve. Thanks for writing.
Barbafa, Biden certainly has the authority, SCOTUS has said that any official act of the President is legal and he has immunity, which makes it legal, and so long as the President is acting as President anything he does is official.
The rest of your statement infers that you are unaware of Project 2025 and Agenda 47, It is already in play. Trump will appoint the cabinet he needs to decontruct the administrative state, and nullify the Constitution, and the senate will go along with it, because they either are in the same boat as Trump or are terrified of his base.
Trump will use the DOJ, the NSA, the FBI to go after all who oppose him,
If there is any hope, it is the blue states, three of them have governors that have taken steps to protect their ciizens from Trump, Washington, California, Illinois.
William, I don’t believe SCOTUS granted blanket immunity to every President for every official act. That's not what my reading about the ruling says. The ruling concerned t***p only, and only in regard to the charges in question.
Further, the definition of, "official acts" has not yet been adjudicated. Lastly, the chances that this SCOTUS would include acts that Biden commits on his way out are nil.
You can and will believe anything that you wish Denise, That is what people do. All we know is that SCOTUS has granted immunity to official acts of the President, and when it comes to deciding what is and is not an official act.
Either the President will decide or SCOTUS,if there is anyone or any group standing that is capable of challenging the president and lasting through the appeals process to the Supreme Court who will have the final word, and we already know what that final word will be, don't we?
Your condescension aside, William, I don't just "believe" things for no reason. I study various sources before I come to a conclusion. Joyce Vance is a pretty good guide, for instance.
And again, what constitutes official acts has not yet been decided. That is why SCOTUS sent the case presided over by Chutkan back to her, and why Smith filed additional motions. All of which are moot now, yes.
My point being that the goose/ gander principle isn't going to apply here. Biden doesn't have carte blanche. Nor would he have the inclination to use same; he's too much of a "high road" guy.
You are skating by the point. Yes, official acts have not been defined, and as I said if the case comes up, it will be the complicit and corrupt Supreme Court that will decide.
But that is not an excuse to estop Biden from exercising that authority, otherwise it is the same as obedience in advance.
My state, Massachusetts, is taking steps also. We have good, strong democrats here!
The only hope we have is that the Blue states form a compact,and the compact means not recognizing the Supreme Court of Federal Judicial rulings,excluding federal facilities, especially IRS offices,and doing everything but actually seceding . I draw the line there, because Washington has Fort Lewis (Joint base Lewis McChord) and California has military installations up and down the state, Air Force and Navy installations are not much of a threat, but the President can order the Army and Marines (which are under the Navy) to occupy state capitals and arrest the leadership. He can also federalize the national guard. Which is what Eisenhower did when Gov Faubus used the Arkansas Guard to bar the entry of those black kids to Little Rock High School.. Ike federalized them, had them stand down and sent in the 101st Ariborne.
Quite true, William, but no army, and not eve The Leader, can lower prices. There will be disappointment, and the Trumpsters may end up learning some humility. Don't despair!
My knowledge of human nature tells me that Trump will have created so much chaos, and the media will be chasing another more attractive and important shiny object, that inflation will be ignored.
Also inflation is a media created issue, it is of prime importance to financial institutions, they hate it and they love deflation.
Where is it that people notice the rise in prices Victor? The supermarket.
Who does the shopping at the supermarket Victor? Women
What percentage of women voted for Trump Victor? 45%, despite the rise in the price of eggs, bacon,milk, bread.
Men go shopping, but they are the outliers, and when they do, they have a list in their hand, or are bachelors buying booze and frozen meals.
We don't pay attention prices, But when you see a woman, especially one with kids, she is checking prices, putting thing back on the shelf, and if at a check out counter and the kid grabs some candy or gum at the checkout, very often she puts it back.
I've seen many a woman pull something from the check out, but never a man.
Bottom line is that inflation will not be an issue for Trump, and if I am wrong, he will place the blame on queers, the Chinese, Mexicans and Canadians and the media, by then, will know better than to fact check him.
In fact they already have. The default is obedience in advance. Corporations, especially the media, and politicians know what is coming at them like a freight train, and are scared shitless.
Courage in the face of the onslaught will be a rare thing.
William, Admittedly, I hadn’t accounted for the SCOTUS decision granting the president absolute immunity for official acts. I’ll have to mull over that.
Meanwhile, I’m acutely aware of every provision of Project 25 and also aware of Agenda 47. That said, as one who holds the conviction that together we have the power to fight back, I am laser-focused for now on the 15 Democratic trifecta states.
Vigilance is required.
Our current times feel dystopian in a Handmaid’s Tale kind of way. Democracy is fragile. We are seeing how easily freedoms can be lost through censorship, hypocrisy, class, sex and racial disparity, social and wealth inequality and corrupt patriarchal power and control. Even though I live in blue California, when those in red states (Gilead) are oppressed, so am I.
You and I are vigilant Robert, but more than vigilance is required.
Vigilance is what is needed to keep one from falling into a hole, but we have already fallen into the hole, now we have to find a way to get ourselves out of the hole., and the hole is deep very deep.
The one thing that made me cringe in Kamala’s speeches was her insistent repetition of concern about the MIDDLE class rather than the WORKING class or just WORKING PEOPLE. Let’s get it straight next time.
Susan, While Kamala is not alone in this regard, because civil rights leader William Barber repeatedly has reported that a million poor people don’t vote, I believe both our policy and our framing of its constituents need to be broadened. Accordingly, I typically refer to poor and working class voters.
Agree, Barbara-Jo. Per my reading, Biden does NOT have the power dale keeps attributing to him. Your alternatives are sensible and doable, however.
Thanks, Denise, for writing.
Agree to point 2. Point one is overdone--we must
aim for more compromise and not be dependent on the DNC: they need to listen to 'the people' that's how true democracy works-- not having the hubris to think they know what's best.
Remember the warnings of our founding father's who weren't reliant upon parties to create life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. We need, instead, to rely more on nonpartisan coalitions to address/resolve pressing issues, and the political parties need to follow us and not lead with their interests: having power over their members.
Joan, Considering our party currently is leaderless, I am pressing for Wikler as DNC Chair because he has been deeply engaged in grassroots work across Wisconsin. His hands-on approach and commitment to going door to door, listening to voters in every neighborhood, has made him a skilled organizer and “vote-getting guru.” His activism spans both the ground and online, connecting with people year-round.
I further would note, as Wisconsin Democratic Chair since 2019, Wikler has overseen the party’s rebuilding after years of Republican dominance in the state. He successfully organized and mobilized voters in a state where Republicans had rigged the system to maintain control. Under his leadership, Wisconsin Democrats achieved significant victories in 2024, including gaining four congressional seats, holding onto their Senate seat, breaking the GOP supermajority in the state Senate, and winning ten additional seats in the state Assembly. With a focus on flipping both chambers in 2026 and potentially winning a trifecta if they also win the governorship that year, momentum is clearly on their side.
As a final point, I would mention, in a recent New York Times interview, Wikler expressed his goal to bring the same kind of transformation to the National Democratic Party that he brought to Wisconsin.
Thjs.
Cathlynn, I don’t know how to respond because I don’t understand your reply.
It will only take one massive protest against trump to go wrong, with violence from armed maga supporters, for trump to call Marshal law. Our democracy will be over, with blood on our streets.
We urge you President Biden to take action now.
Yes. I have been very concerned about any protests after Dump
Is in power. It will take very little for the stormtroopers to activate their guns and they will not stop at kneecaps.
martial law
💓Reich💓:"Ultimately, some 10 million homeowners lost their homes to foreclosure. This was not an inevitable result of the financial crisis. It was a policy choice."
Me:"Ultimately, some 16.6 million Americans lost their fight against depression to suicidality in 2022. This was not an inevitable result of any crisis. It was a policy choice."😱😳😰
Why did America vote for the Mass Murderer** over the First Lady's FREE HEALTHCARE and FREEDOM FROM FEAR?*
Why did Americans put the Mass Murderers pill in their mouth and swallow it*** 2.3 billion times in ONE YEAR?
Why did America ignore Ms.FDR. and believe the Mass Murder's "our pills aren't addictive?"
*science
**science denial by Purdue Pharma(used Valium sales to launch the opioid epidemic)
***Valium was the most prescribed medication for the years 1969-1982
*Eleanor Roosevelt:"Do one thing every day that scares you."
Note: by "vote" I mean "economic vote"(aka "buy the pills of")...or even "give up on the science of anxiety: Exposure Therapy"
"ALL Americans know the word Valium... few Americans know the word Exposure ...NONE DO IT DAILY "
The scientific consensus agrees. Two top scientists' statements may be available on request.
https://www.cdc.gov/suicide/facts/index.html#cdc_facts_stats_trends-far-reaching-impact
Up to 60% of anxious people are cured by placebo. If 60% of Americans are cured by placebo and that placebo is fascism... GAME OVER😱😳🤔
in the end fascism never ends well.
Nice impossible Christmas wish list. The hope that Biden can do something, that is. We must not give up hope though. The people of South Korea and Poland are hopeful examples. It will take people power to resist Trump who is a fascist to the core. The key is to get out and protest, now and through the inauguration. We must stand up for the rights of the least powerful, like immigrants, by organizing and fighting back.
T is already front and center. Where oh where is Joe and vp?
Very well said. I live on disability and honestly do not know where to start. But I am against this government. I voted for Harris. And I believe this election was rigged. Happened way too fast for me. I will gladly stand proudly with those opposing this government and will try to follow the same path as I do for the sake of our beloved democracy.
If Biden or Harris don't act immediately...history and the world will hold them solely and personally responsible for the destruction of this Republic and... in the end very possibly our present civilization. Not an exaggeration, when factoring in nuclear threats, climate disasters, financial upheavals, world starvation, resource scarcity, monumental income and resource inequities, biological warfare, climate change related viral releases and more. We are children focused on greed, power, personal indulgences when we should be focused on the bigger issues regarding our world and our species' survival.
History has proven that civilizations can't endure the multitude of challenges faced when so many are unable to recognize the multitude of dangers and kiss off the actions necessary to combat them. Technology will not save the billions, only perhaps the millions that can afford the protections that tech can provide...but for how long they should ask themselves... and under what conditions.
I fear neither Biden or Harris have the courage and/or maybe... the desire to do what they should.
**Open message to President Joe Biden,**
Dear President Biden,
You assured us of a "peaceful transfer of power," yet it feels as though a fascist dictator is being installed in the Oval Office.
With all due respect, Mr. President,
This deeply troubles me.
Trump declared that he would arrest anyone who opposes him, labeling them as enemies within.
My God,
Mr. President, you have the authority to stop Trump.
If we do not act now, we risk becoming a fascist dictatorship for generations to come.
Mr. President, I urge you to address the charges of treason and remove Trump's corrupted judges from the Supreme Court, as well as all those in Congress who support his efforts to overturn the 2020 election and his violent insurrection against the United States.
After January 20, 2025, we may never have another opportunity to halt Trump's ambitions.
This is our final chance to prevent a dictatorial takeover of our nation.
The United States Constitution states that
"The punishment for treason is a minimum of five years in prison, a fine of at least $10,000, and the loss of the right to hold public office."
With all due respect, Mr. President,
why is this NOT happening?
Thank you for listening.
(ATTENTION PEOPLE
IF YOU AGREE THEN, PLEASE IMMEDIATELY
Tell THE WHITE HOUSE
AND RE-POST THIS MESSAGE.)
Dale, I know you mean well, but you that this will never happen, right? We're stuck with Trump.
Will this message reach Biden or does it just stay here?
Joan,
It would be of great help
if more people like you
Act by sending this message to the White House and re-posting this message,
Yes, I do and at times phone Congress.
dale s,
Thank you. That is the best answer I’ve read!
There is one more person who deserves to be pardoned. Mr.Snowden lives in Russia because as a “whistle blower , protecting Americans against being spied on by their own government , he was targeted by many who today pretend trumps treason isn’t real???????? If this hypocrisy keeps these goons in power I move out. Nothing one can say makes sending Edward Snowden to a permanent life in Russia legal. Nothing. Nothing… don’t even say it, NOTHING. And Pres.Biden helped that happen. Shame!☠️😱
Biden has no such power, dale. Unfortunately.
Good one ! djt's election seems surreal. As far from a conspiracy theorist as can be, there's still this lingering doubt as to the viability of that election. And if President Biden did as you ask ? I'd be 100+% in support and relieved ! !
Biden could have called for a recount in 5 swing states that we’re determined by only 200,000 in three of them.
Yes, Biden could have called for recounts, but he couldn’t make them happen. Each state runs its own elections, and has its own rules governing recounts. It’s not a federal matter.
Treason by anyone should be punished. So let's start with Joe Biden, Hunter Biden, Jim Biden and Comey and then Obama, Clapper, Brennan and Swallwell then Schiff. There are many more involved in the phoney dossier paid for by Hillary campaign. Mayorkas should be on the list, maybe first on the list. Let's go.
Yegads, and here I thought the MAGAt trolls, would go away with the election of Trump. We certainly live in an Orwellian world now, where patriots are deemed traitors.
You failed mention the treason Trump committed before, during and after the January 6th attack against the US Congress, attempted coup, and BIG LIE of a stolen election.
Instead of the punishment he deserves and disqualification from holding political office, Trump has been rewarded the Presidency.
Professor Reich: wow, eye-opening and thought-provoking. it also explains why i love elizabeth and bernie so much and had hoped they (or elizabeth, at least) would run for the presidency. (by the way, i love referring to her as elizabeth "I HAVE A PLAN!" warren, because saying this always makes me smile and also reminds me that here is a genuine warrior woman who thinks and plans and is optimistic and who is worthy of our support.)
but here we are, facing the worst fascist take-over of the country in my lifetime, by power-hungry oligarchs. i know so many people who worship money and power as surely as they once worshiped christ or whatever else was their motivator in life, and it's terrifying. i'm not sure if we had an army of elizabeth "I HAVE A PLAN!" warrens who are willing and able to fight for us, if americans would support them or fight alongside them.
I’ve supported Bernie and Liz’s runs for POTUS. Either would’ve changed the paradigm and focus of Washington elected officials catering to the 1% versus the 99%.
I’m looking forward to the next Democrat for POTUS that fits their mold. If we don’t find one, our democracy will be lost forever to the GOP crooks and liars.
Papa, I am watching Ben Wikler, Gavin Newsom, Pete Buttigieg, Liz Cheney, Adam Kinzinger and Jamie Raskin. I would definitely support Bernie or Elizabeth; however, I don't think they will ever run for president again. We absolutely need a better voice that actually LISTENS to the peoples' concerns, issues and needs. We need someone who will tell the richy rich to go pound sand and not accept their dark money. We need someone who will get in there and do away with Citizens United, the Electoral College and replace, even stronger, every single guardrail we had before the republicans tore them down. We need someone who will clean up the supreme court and get rid of those justices who were criminal in their actions.
For democracy also, end Filibuster, change Senatorial Representation (more than 2 based on population) and end gerrymandering. Look at what the state GOP just did to NC Governor. Essentially neutered him.
I feel we’ve fallen too far into the GOP gaming of the “rules” and norms, to dig our democracy out from in one or two election cycles. Unless Trump has a devastatingly horrible term sufficient to awaken his disciples to the truth of his idiocy, criminality, debauchery, and venality, assuming they don’t cheer those qualities themselves, I don’t see an escape from this devolution.
I haven’t lost hope, yet suspect we’ll suffer far more deeply as a Nation, before we leave behind the carnage I anticipate.
It may take an externality like climate change to bring change we want, or it may make governance worse. Hard to say.
Or if Trump tanks the economy which is a real possibility and is seen that way -remember unemployment at the end of his last term was the highest since the Great Depression and he was extremely unpopular- that may help to get us out of this mess, some.
The main hope i have is that the world is always more creative than I am. But as far as my thoughts go, its grim city man.
Papa, it takes 2/3rds of the Senate to get rid of the filibuster. Schumer has had the nuclear option and never used it. It is all moot now, There is no significant legislation before the Senate and thee will be none until the 119th Congress, save budget and spending authorization.
The Republicans in the senate would never have voted to repeal the filibuster, but can't say the same for the Democrats in the new Republican controlled Senate,lots of self serving turncoats, Manchin and Sinema were their cover,so they didn't have to expose themselves.
And if the Democrats try to filibuster, you can be sure that Senator Thune will pull the nuclear option.
Until states like ruby red Wyoming, population 600,000, with two Senators versus California predominantly blue, population 43 million, also two Senators, obtain equitable Senatorial representation, we will continue to have a minority of the US population having greater Senatorial representation than the majority of the population. This, the Electoral College, and gerrymandering, must end to achieve a fair majority ruling electorate.
I agree Papa, but I can't think of a viable solution Can you?
The political situation is a mess. A compromise hacked together by men, as they sought to find a solution to a problem. And the problem being: How to get everyone to sign on to an agreement. The states with a scarce and spread out population, felt that they were at the mercy of more populous states, and the two senators per state was suppose to give the lesser states a counter countvailing power against the more populous states who would have more representation in the Senate. as was the 2/3rds if a person count for slaves, as representation in the house was based on population count.
The purpose of the first census (1790- 1820) was to determine how many people lived in a district to determine representation in the house.
The 1790 census enumerated males over 16, males under 16, free whites and slaves. 16 was the age in which males became eligible for conscription into militias, subsequent years that broke down the population by age, and by 1850 used further categories like "read and write" and "idiot"
By the way in 1790 there were only two states that didn't have any slaves,Maine and Massachusetts
The only way to change the constitution, both representation in congress and the electoral college is via a constitutional convention, and that would require a 3/4th majority of the states, the same amount needed to amend the constitution.
There are 13 states with only one or two representatives in the House
Getting 3/4's of the states to agree to such a change will be impossible.
I agree, Papa!
What you are saying here is we must repeat a revolution in the U.S. that will work even better than 1776. Dreaming of one leader doesn't help when facing a tribe of oligarchs.
Think about it. That one leader can unite the various factions that are fighting for the same thing - our Democracy. If that one person can bring everyone together, yes, we could have a revolution without firing a single shot! There are so many different organizations, PACs and groups that are working toward that end; however, it is disjointed. This organization is fighting that and this PAC is fighting this. If every American that wants to see our Democracy survive and progress came together, our voice would be more powerful than the orange man and his sycophants - more powerful than the billionaires and the mega-corporations. We would be heard and that one leader would let the orange man and all of them know this is America and we are a Democracy, not a dictatorship.
Yes . . . but it needs to be a bloodless constitutionally legal revolution!
The MUCH "better voice" exists/existed in the person of non-PAC, progressive Democratic presidential candidate, Marianne Williamson, but the corporate centrist Democrats politically ran her off the road and left her for dead, along with millions of other people. And the Democrats' mainstream news lackeys completely shut her out from the start of her campaign in March 2023. I also made a number of posts about her for Mr. Reich's substack and YT channel, and subsequent posts of his showed me that they were ignored.
I'll even go so far as to say that the murder of the United CEO likely would not have happened if the Democrats had not undemocratically silenced Williamson [and others]. Her entire platform was about drastically reworking or dismantling all the "industrial complexes", and certainly the conflict of interest, for-profit healthcare business must be dismantled. Part of the silencing was FOUR cancelled primaries to kill any Biden competition. And without the benefit of the voice of "the people", i.e. an open convention, the Democrats undemocratically annointed Kamala Harris as the nominee.
https://music.youtube.com/watch?v=JOpNjHsXwzk
🤷🏼♂️
https://youtu.be/2nwRiuh1Cug?si=kQnJeL13qE2L9eqE
I hope it's not too late. Would you read my substack I just submitted about my hearing with the administrative law judge concerning the Medicare Advantage denial, Maximus role, and give me your experienced opinion?
Why are you even using Medicare Advantage? You've found out it's a fraud now. Switch next year to traditional Medicare supplemental.
I hate to say this but the odds as a pro se person are slim to none. I don't know who the judge is but the odds that she will actually write the decision are also virtually nil. They use "decision writers."
The best lawyers would hand me a propsed decision (in digital form) to try to avoid the use of decision writers. They don't even listen to the hearing tape.
On the merits, the big thing is that you were initially approved, so the burden of proof should be on the company. It was up to them to PROVE a case, not you.
We may really need a non-affiliated person to lead our nation, who is not beholden to the corporate gang embedded in our governance and both major parties to date.
Ivory Smith. RIP. Thanks Joe. You did it again.
So you don’t see any harm in getting drunk and trying to drive if you’re a native born American?
Go away. You’re annoying.
Nailed it! I heart Elizabeth! I love everything about her. I actually had a House Party for her. I went to Warren Night School and took notes. She really did have a good plan for practically everything.
On the night McCain gave the famous thumb down on ending the ACA, several Dem Senators came outside to speak to a couple hundred people who had gathered on the Capital Grounds. Warren gave the most sincere, hopeful and inspiring speech. At one point, Senator Warren was taking a picture several people. She looked at me standing nearby and said, "get in here!" I sure wish I had gotten a copy of that picture.
It was a roller-coaster of a night. At one point, a limo came rolling up with VP Pence to cast the tie-breaking vote. It really did go down to the wire. Without McCain taking a stand for saving the ACA, it would've been history... Without the notion of a concept of a plan to replace the ACA.
I met some really amazing people in the days around that vote, including "Spitfire." She was in a wheelchair and had been arrested over 40 times protesting for healthcare. For her, the vote was a matter of life and death, living at home or in a hospital. Spitfire, Warren and McCain were my new heros.
This was a really great two-piece story by Sec. Reich, IMO. He nailed it. This one story is worth the monthly 5 bucks.
I promise to renew my subscription as soon as I get my back pay or sell some belongings. It's been rough due to an injury. On the night McCain saved the ACA, I didn't know my life would be one of the 40,000 lives a YEAR that the ACA saves.
If DOGE wants to save over $300 Billion a year, I suggest simply cutting out the unnecessary middle man, health insurance companies, and switch to a Single Payer, Medicare For All system, like the rest of the industrialized world. $300 Billion over 10 years is $3 Trillion?
Another way to save a lot is to stop spending so much on satellites that add air pollution, increase greenhouse gasses, and will put a hole in the ozone the size of Texas. After all, seniors need Social Security more than wasteful government contracts and silly Mars exploration. For real!
Musk and the tech bros in Silicon Valley remind me of the adage
"the farther away you are from a problem the easier it is to fix."
Look at the US map.
My guess is Musk will wear out his welcome pretty quick. There's a reason corporate boards have gotten rid of him.
People here should consider whether they want to be on twitter. The more who leave it the more Musk is sapped of strength and twitter/X can end up a rightwing site like Truth Social that many companies will not advertise on.
Besides, Musk controls the twitter "battlefield". Try Bluesky https://bsky.app/
AMEN!
Well said!
Danny Piper, I love everything you just wrote here! What a positive spirit you have! Right ON!!! And you’re right about the bloated middle man in medicine. I’m old enough to remember the medical world before all that (I worked in pediatrics) and it was so much better. Keep writing, Danny Piper!
Thank you, Danny. You're an inspiration to me.
I still have my Bernie and Warren magnets all over my refrigerator ❤️
We are so blessed to still have Elizabeth Warren in Massachusetts. I would have died happy if either of them were POTUS! Instead.....it looks like my death will take place in The Upside-Down, with monsters screaming in the perpetual dark 💀
Made me laugh out loud, Paula Dean!! Don’t go anywhere any time soon, we need ya!
❤️❤️❤️
TRUMP IS DRUMPH/NAZI FAMILY AND THE NAZI’S KILL AND STEAL YOUR VALUABLES
To put it in layman terms, in our country today, it’s an upside down funnel with a strong vacuum at the top that is sucking all the money from the bottom 90% to the very narrow end of the funnel at the top! Decency and respect are being replaced by greed and corruption. Trickle down economics was the ridiculous fantasy that the Republicans endorsed with Reagan and it’s been a down hill slide ever since for the average American.
Well said, Keith!
Your argument on this is excellent. The "rot at the top" is exactly what you say. I would only add this to it: The rot's other mechanism is consumption, the promotion of consumption combined with planned obsolescence, and the consumed are the natural resources of the planet. The rot consumes people, yes, and it also consumes forests, farmland, swamps, lakes streams, rivers and ocean. It produces filth and poisons, and that is where our world is headed now.
Hey Wayne,
The "top that is rot" has a term for what you call "filth and poisons:" "EXTERNALITIES."
See how the rot tries to muck up our thinking. They well know the rotten crap they are killing us with, but by putting it in an "external" frame, they are conning us.
The ROTTERS are saying:
"Those filth and poisons that are spreading across the globe, raising global temperatures, destroying all natural living things including humanity. That stuff? Gosh, we don't know nuthin. Must be something EXTERNAL."
But we ain't buying that ROT!
Wayne Teel, "filth and poisons" of some people have desecrated and killed our beautiful nature and wildllife. Very sadly, the "filth and poisons" (the rampant egos) are about to stampede and destroy all of us.
I agree that you can use the term, filth and poisons, for people, but I was really referring to things like neonicotinoids, a broad spectrum of agricultural toxins, heavy metals, forever chemicals, and plastic, the externalized costs of production in a consumer society.
Wayne Teal, yes, I was taking some liberty (while we still have it) with your powerful words. Thank you.
Thank you, Professor Reich! I would love to see what you have written so clearly and plainly put on every single news feed, in every single way that information is being sent now-a-days, in every single newspaper! By giving carte blanche to the wealthy by Reagan, our government has transformed our country into the ultra wealthy and the poor. The middle working class is so tiny it's almost miniscule! Americans have been fed a lot of bullshit in the form of platitudes by both the republicans and democrats for so many years while the wealthy and big corporations began to rape and pillage our country for their own benefit. What Reagan was so wrong about was that super wealthy do NOT believe in the common good and they never have. Their greed and thirst for power prevents feelings of unity, good will, caring for neighbors and helping anyone else other than themselves! I'd like any democrat or republican to tell the hard-working middle and lower classes that they can achieve everything they want by simply working hard. Tell that to the guy that holds down 3 even 4 jobs in order to pay for housing, food and family. Tell that to the senior citizen who lives on such a fixed income, they end up eating the cheapest food they can find (yes, sometimes cat food!) and sit in the dark with a blanket in the cold or a hand fan in the heat!, Tell that to the kid who graduated high school but can't afford technical school or college because of the cost, can't afford to leave home because the job he does get, the pay is minimal with no room for saving. Yes, the republicans and democrats have screwed our nation and I am so very angry about it! They can sit up there in Washington and cut this and that because it doesn't mean a tinker's damn to them! They are rich, they have great health care and absolutely do NOT care about the average citizen who put them where they are! Yes, there is a big change coming and it is not going to be pretty! When MAGA cult followers and those Americans who simply did not vote get a dose of reality once the orange man begins his reign of terror, the anger and frustration that so many of us are feeling right now will be felt by them, and Lord love a duck, the 'you know what' will hit the fan!
The possible Executive Orders Donald J. Trump may sign after January 20, 2025
When Trump assumes office again, here are potential controversial orders that could test constitutional boundaries, ignite civil unrest, and challenge democratic norms:
1. Immigration Enforcement and Border Security
• Mass Deportation Policies: Accelerating deportations through enhanced immigration enforcement, possibly targeting DACA recipients despite ongoing legal protections.
• Revisiting Travel Bans: Expanding bans on individuals from predominantly Muslim-majority countries or other regions under the guise of national security.
• Militarization of the Border: Deploying more troops or empowering state militias with federal support to enforce immigration laws.
2. Election Reform and Federal Oversight
• Federal Control of Elections: Issuing orders to “safeguard” elections, such as mandating voter ID laws or restricting mail-in voting, which could disproportionately affect certain communities and undermine trust in elections.
• Investigations into Election “Fraud”: Reopening investigations or establishing commissions targeting past election processes, potentially stoking partisan tensions.
3. Criminalizing Dissent
• Crackdowns on Protests: Expanding penalties for protesters or limiting the scope of First Amendment protections under the pretext of ensuring public safety.
• Surveillance of Opposition Groups: Increasing surveillance and monitoring of organizations labeled as “domestic threats,” particularly progressive or activist groups.
4. Targeting the Media
• Defamation or Anti-Misinformation Rules: Executive orders aimed at curtailing media “misinformation” but selectively targeting outlets critical of his administration, challenging First Amendment protections.
5. Federalizing Culture Wars
• Education Policies: Mandating curricula that emphasize “patriotic education,” restricting content related to race, gender, or LGBTQ+ issues in federally funded schools.
• Anti-Transgender Directives: Prohibiting federal recognition of transgender individuals’ rights in sports, healthcare, or education, provoking backlash and legal challenges.
6. Foreign Policy by Fiat
• Unilateral Military Actions: Ordering military strikes or actions without congressional approval, bypassing constitutional checks on war powers.
• Withdrawing from International Agreements: Abruptly exiting treaties or alliances, such as NATO, which could destabilize international relations.
7. Expanded Executive Power
• Challenging Judicial Oversight: Ignoring or circumventing federal court rulings that block his policies, escalating tensions between branches of government.
• Curtailing Civil Service Protections: Reinstating Schedule F, enabling him to fire career civil servants perceived as obstacles to his agenda.
Potential Outcomes and Civil Unrest:
• Polarized Reactions: Actions perceived as autocratic or targeting marginalized groups could trigger protests, strikes, and clashes between supporters and opponents.
• Legal and Institutional Crises: Courts and Congress may challenge the legality of certain orders, leading to constitutional confrontations.
• Erosion of Norms: Attempts to consolidate power or undermine democratic processes could deepen political divides and spark broader social unrest.
Each could provoke fierce opposition and strain the resilience and at the same time provoke U.S. democratic institutions and the military.
The super-rich and GOP are grabbing for the brass ring of Total Fascist Power. They see Trump as their very last chance. They don't care about law or deaths or poverty or suffering, they only care about power.
Who will win the the obvious second Civil War?
Whoever controls the armed forces. Trump for now 😥
No one wins with war. It's an outmoded choice over consensus/compromise that's civil. But war is easier: sadly so.
I’d argue it’s already been lost.
The possible Executive Orders Donald J. Trump may sign after January 20, 2025
When Trump assumes office again, here are potential controversial orders that could test constitutional boundaries, ignite civil unrest, and challenge democratic norms:
1. Immigration Enforcement and Border Security
• Mass Deportation Policies: Accelerating deportations through enhanced immigration enforcement, possibly targeting DACA recipients despite ongoing legal protections.
• Revisiting Travel Bans: Expanding bans on individuals from predominantly Muslim-majority countries or other regions under the guise of national security.
• Militarization of the Border: Deploying more troops or empowering state militias with federal support to enforce immigration laws.
2. Election Reform and Federal Oversight
• Federal Control of Elections: Issuing orders to “safeguard” elections, such as mandating voter ID laws or restricting mail-in voting, which could disproportionately affect certain communities and undermine trust in elections.
• Investigations into Election “Fraud”: Reopening investigations or establishing commissions targeting past election processes, potentially stoking partisan tensions.
3. Criminalizing Dissent
• Crackdowns on Protests: Expanding penalties for protesters or limiting the scope of First Amendment protections under the pretext of ensuring public safety.
• Surveillance of Opposition Groups: Increasing surveillance and monitoring of organizations labeled as “domestic threats,” particularly progressive or activist groups.
4. Targeting the Media
• Defamation or Anti-Misinformation Rules: Executive orders aimed at curtailing media “misinformation” but selectively targeting outlets critical of his administration, challenging First Amendment protections.
5. Federalizing Culture Wars
• Education Policies: Mandating curricula that emphasize “patriotic education,” restricting content related to race, gender, or LGBTQ+ issues in federally funded schools.
• Anti-Transgender Directives: Prohibiting federal recognition of transgender individuals’ rights in sports, healthcare, or education, provoking backlash and legal challenges.
6. Foreign Policy by Fiat
• Unilateral Military Actions: Ordering military strikes or actions without congressional approval, bypassing constitutional checks on war powers.
• Withdrawing from International Agreements: Abruptly exiting treaties or alliances, such as NATO, which could destabilize international relations.
7. Expanded Executive Power
• Challenging Judicial Oversight: Ignoring or circumventing federal court rulings that block his policies, escalating tensions between branches of government.
• Curtailing Civil Service Protections: Reinstating Schedule F, enabling him to fire career civil servants perceived as obstacles to his agenda.
Potential Outcomes and Civil Unrest:
• Polarized Reactions: Actions perceived as autocratic or targeting marginalized groups could trigger protests, strikes, and clashes between supporters and opponents.
• Legal and Institutional Crises: Courts and Congress may challenge the legality of certain orders, leading to constitutional confrontations.
• Erosion of Norms: Attempts to consolidate power or undermine democratic processes could deepen political divides and spark broader social unrest.
Each could provoke fierce opposition and provoke U.S. democratic institutions and the military.
Good summary, Adam.
I don't think mandating voter ID laws by exec order would stand up in court since these things are constitutionally under state law. IMO.
Steve, think catholic fsr tight supreme court.
What an excellent piece. I’ve always focused on legal and economic trends, but didn’t understand the politics. The super wealthy have bought themselves a government ready to give them substantially more economic and political power. No more congressional inquiries into violations of privacy, free speech, free press, and other civil rights. They’ve bought themselves the Presidency, the Supreme Court, and Congress. The rest of us are left to serve them as they see fit. No wonder Musk, steeped in an apartheid values, gleefully jumps up and down like a two year old. Christmas came early.
The new American tragedy is that even all of this power won’t be enough to satiate the wealthiest. I so much want to see the return of unionization, which counter balanced the basest instincts of 19th century robber barrons, the same instincts alive in our economy today. I wouldn’t be surprised if next we see the military used against strikers and organized labor (remember the Pinkertons?). It used to be government’s role was to shield Americans from corporate excess and corruption. This new administration plans to shield the wealthy from American citizens. We need to act now.
What evidence is there that Elon Musk knows anything about efficiency? His takeover of Twitter was catastrophic, firing huge swaths of people and then realizing they were needed and having to hire them back, ultimately making "X" an uglier and more deceitful platform and a sliver of its former self. Tesla can't move cybertrucks to the point they're paying people to stay home. Any NASA operation that crashed as many rockets as SpaceX would have been shut down long ago. The only thing he brings to the table is his ability to financially power through his bad decision making, the essence of inefficiency.
Any candidate who tells the truth will be primaried , if they are still in office. Attacked in ads, proliferating at the speed of light, making the candidate a target as well, of the Mob. The money is a big bully.
Murkowski and Tillis and Ernst clearly don't like being bullied. We'll see what they are made of.
I just hope that none of them get hurt. Deniability or no, we will have a very good idea who did it, or is behind it.
Ipso facto. And when rather than the occasional mention of some far off dream of the recinding of Citizens United, some concrete and actual legislation to do so is enacted by a progressive, honest, unbought official, I'll believe there a glimmer of light at the end of this long, dark, corrupted tunnel. I shalln't hold my breath.
If we can't tell the story of "rot at the top" with this circus of billionaires, christofascists, and Putin loyalists there's no hope for us.
"The way to make the tax code fair is to make big corporations and the very wealthy finally pay their share. In 2020 55 of the biggest companies in America made $40 Billion in profits and paid zero in federal income taxes.
"Not any more!
"Thanks to the law I wrote and signed big companies now have to pay a minimum of 15%. But that’s still less than working people pay in federal taxes. It’s time to raise the corporate minimum tax to at least 21% so every big corporation finally begins to pay their fair share. I also want to end the tax breaks for Big Pharma, Big Oil, private jets, and massive executive pay!
"End it now!
"There are 1,000 billionaires in America. You know what the average federal tax rate for these billionaires is? 8.2 percent! That’s far less than the vast majority of Americans pay. No billionaire should pay a lower tax rate than a teacher, a sanitation worker, a nurse! That’s why I’ve proposed a minimum tax of 25% for billionaires. Just 25%. That would raise $500 Billion over the next 10 years.
"Imagine what that could do for America. Imagine a future with affordable child care so millions of families can get the care they need and still go to work and help grow the economy.
"Imagine a future with paid leave because no one should have to choose between working and taking care of yourself or a sick family member.
"Imagine a future with home care and elder care so seniors and people living with disabilities can stay in their homes and family caregivers get paid what they deserve!"
President Joe Biden — State of the Union Address 2024
Thank you for the reminder, Andrew. Racial identity prevailed over economic interest.
I agree Dems need to name the real problem, but I don't think it's enough. They must also admit to some party and personal responsibility for our mess. And apologize. And after giving examples of how they have changed and are working on changing, ask for the opportunity to earn the people's trust again.
This must be the Democrats' message. When I ran for office my campaign motto was "Restore the Middle Class ".
It's just so inconceivable now. So much of that was on a foundation of COMPANY benefits! Health care and retirement plan and reasonable expectation of a long-term deal. Now company people are applying for food stamps. In my lifetime, it's hard to get my head around how much the thumbscrews have tightened. The old frog is pretty well cooked.
N.H?
Yes.
It's already too late. 😥
The wolves are at the door and theres no one left to stop them. This is the end of America as we know it.
I am betting Trump MAGA GOP will again and again overplay their hands. It's already started
Likely. The question is how a non-discerning public will perceive things through the media they get, and impacts to their personal life.
We must keep men in women's sports. That will show those women how much we all care about them.
I think it’s more accurate to say Trump’s nominations of people like Hegseth, Gaetz, etc. was supposed to show women “how much” he cares about them.
Like. As the daughter of a Mom "born a Bircher and died a Birther," I don't even see any new insight, apologies to the Prof. Trump has merely tapped into a sales pitch feeding a Great American Tradition what they already knew and wanted to hear. Crafty Jews and lazy blacks and slutty females just wanting into your wallet, while they murder babies just to get their jollies. What's new? Maybe voter suppression and precision gerrymandering after Trump sabotaged the last Census? I left out "Irish need not apply," you know: furriners. Papists. (or Muslims, or the other fancy "raghead," what, not Muslim??? Who cares.
Now they even kill women who wanted their babies, but had miscarriages that were no fault of their own. They refuse to allow standard emergency medical care for that common outcome. If they can conflate the loss of a pregnancy with abortion : ignorance and hate are the weapons against women : 'just' because they can. Innocent women and girls are being murdered in the United States of America. This should be a bigger story in all media. It should be stopped. Miscarriage is NOT abortion! It is a tragedy that is heartbreaking for those expecting.
Of course, the oldest story of all is about Eve. God could have just punished Eve for her transgression(which isn't really clear; maybe just being female to start with) but it cursed all women to suffer for all time. Fast forward to the 20th Century, and the story, at its foundation, is still, females are inherently promiscuous, seductive, untrustworthy, conniving, and predatory especially for a male's pocketbook. I inherited a boxful of the little Erle Stanley Gardner pulp paperbacks (mostly Perry Mason) from my Dad. A full curriculum in Women's Studies could be structured around Gardner's work. I just finished "The Case of the Turning Tide" from 1941. (pre-Perry M.?) Not elegant literature; highly entertaining, but boy do I ask myself from time to time, is this really how men still experience women? Less lipstick, same dangerous slut (same high heels!)
Men respect, even worship, power. Women have power over them, and they resent that. Nobody resents women more than priest serving male deities.They see women as rivals.
Well said, Mmerose.
Can't understand why the dems want to keep killing black babies. Why do you support the dems?
Dude, women have health problems that make it impossible to carry to term sometimes. Do you know how many women are addicted to drugs and cannot stop? Thousands and thousands!
Sadly, one outcome is premature birth due to drug and alcohol use. Do you realize that the 1st month of a life spent in the NICU costs 1 MILLION dollars? You ready to pick up that bill and saddle taxpayers with BILLONS?
Then the infant can have severe health problems for life. Do you really want to force women with health complications to carry if it will kill the mother?
You want to force drug addicted women to have drug addicted babies that cost taxpayers ONE MILLION a MONTH? Who is woke? Wake the F UP!
Mind your own business. If you don't want to have an abortion, don't! Just keep your ill-advised moral ideas out of women's lives because you have no idea what health problem they could be and ARE experiencing.
Danny Piper, brilliant, again! And exactly right. I also worked in a NICU, at Duke. Saw those exact babies and mothers you are talking about. There can be good outcomes, but also stupid, costly mistaken efforts. Decisions should be up to doctor and mother and everybody else should stay out of it.
Oh, dear. Whatever it is calling itself John mcGrath only WANTED to jerk somebody's chain for fun. But you do reference the most gruesome "cruelty is the point" outcome: women forced to carry to term knowing the baby is doomed, and they are doomed to watch while the baby suffers dying slowly after birth.
John Mcgrath, why do you single out "black babies?" That is so Putinesque.
That, “it’s already too late”, is what I’m afraid of.
Trump, his corrupt family, and his billionaires buddies (why in the hell do you think they are lining up to join the FINANCIAL RAPE of America) = get as much money from as many sources as you can. Stuff yourself off the American people. Tell them they have to sacrifice, while you take more and more and more........and blame others as to why the people have to suffer. (Notice Trump has ALREADY gone back on making groceries more affordable and like the LIAR he is blamed something else. Use people and then discard them - the Trump motto.). Privatize and make money and take control or if you can't do that, Dismantle and get it out of the way so you can make more money and take control! Notice son Eric has already gone overseas to keep the Trump family greed rolling. Don't believe for one minute it is to "serve" America. This gang of thugs and goons ONLY care about taking care of and "serving" themselves. And I am sure in their private moments laugh and howl about how they were able to con over 70 million people to give them the keys.