Tag: Donald Trump

Part 3-Trump Racism is Bad for America

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Part 3-Trump Racism is Bad for America

Part 3-Trump Racism is Bad for America

 

By T.K. McNeil 

I ended Part 2 of Trump Racism Is Bad For America worried that immigrants were being transferred from the United States to foreign prisons without due process. I worried aloud about death squads, concentration camps, and gas ovens. Trump racism is obvious for anyone with eyes, ears, or an X account. We are rocked out of our beds daily by angry and racially inflammatory 2 a.m. Tweets. Trump uses a practiced, coded language of dog whistles and red meat taunts that he pitches regularly to his MAGA hatted support base. The intent, an obviously planned effort to keep them frothing at the mouth, agitated, and ready for action.

Protests and resistance.  I can hear the audible gasps and protests. I say, better to think it a possibility than to refuse to face the possibility. Trump’s racism has already led to the separation of children from their parents at the Mexican border. He is now sending immigrants to foreign prisons without due process. He has stated flatly soldiers will have his permission to shoot asylum seekers that might potentially hurl rocks at the soldiers. I’m just going to let that percolate amidst your neuron receptors for a couple of minutes.

History must be studied.  There is this tendency to fall in love with the past and wish for life as it once was. For those of you who are not old enough to have reached that stage of your life let me assure you, beware, nostalgia is a load of crap. If in 40 years time there are Americans wishing for the good old days when Donald Trump was in power, let me warn you, you are in a world of trouble. Chances are, there will no longer be a United States if people are longing for a president who resembles Fat Bastard more than he does the leader of the free world.

The emergence of Barack Obama:  When Barack Obama came into office there was a hope from many sides, particularly moderates that there would finally be that emergence of a color blind America. Unfortunately there was an angry element of the population that was not ready or willing to accept such an outrage. My God in Heaven, there is a black family living in the ‘nation’s house.’ “We” must “do something.” A backlash of white vs all those “uppity” POC quickly coalesced on the alt-right. It quickly became their central purpose to undermine and dismember a hoped for mending of our national division.

Dehumanizing the target is goal one. “Birtherism” bubbled up through the conspiracy theorists. The theory postulated that 50 or so years ago, an all-knowing “group” of Democrats probably funded by George Soros met to bestow false citizenship on a mixed race kid in Kenya who would eventually be smuggled into Hawaii and who would go on to become president of the United States.  Such crazy over the top nonsense was fully embraced and pushed with ceaseless passion for more than 8 years by Donald J. Trump. The endless campaign driven by Trump and other alt-righters had the desired results of casting doubt on President Obama’s legitimacy to rule the country. Effectively undermining our first black president was accomplished. Sadly, a repeated lie often becomes a malignancy on the perceived character of the target.

Other factors.  Despite the constant attack from the right Barack Obama left office as one of the most popular presidents in American history. A fact that enrages Donald Trump. The fact that the first black man elected president of the United States was to be followed in succession by the most openly racist president in American history is sad and deeply troubling.

Plenty of blame.  The 2016 election became a disaster of Godzilla proportions. It would have taken a series of monumental political catastrophes to elect Trump. Unfortunately for the United States that’s exactly what happened. Russian interference, Wikileaks email drops, walking pneumonia, Weiner porn texts, a rogue FBI Director, the first woman candidate of a major American political party, a reality TV has-been all converged together to make the 2016 campaign and election results both  extraordinary and  unprecedented.

Political infighting.  In the final analysis, I blame the Democrats for Trump’s two election victories. The DNC decided to rig their primary process long before the Russians or Comey got involved. The party bypassed a forward thinking man like Bernie Sanders who connected with the future voters of America for a political wife, turned candidate who the GOP had convinced half the country she was the devil incarnate. Bill and Hillary called in a lot of IOU’s to make this outrage happen. HRC was a flawed candidate from the start. As a result of the DNC betrayal, we as a nation have been burdened with Agent Orange and his team of rich and corrupt bullies. The 2016 election of Trump led to a rapidly accelerating  radicalization of American politics. Trump’s 2024 win was in many ways a repeat of the DNC betrayal of the primary process. This time, the anointing of Kamala Harris, by Joe Biden. This kind of crap needs to stop. Let the process run its course. Maybe he or she will lose, but at least that person was the choice of the majority of Democrats.

Moving where? Today, May of 2025, we are moving backwards at a neck breaking speed; on more levels than there is room to cover in this space. In 2016, Trump was on a steroid driven attack on the legacy of his predecessor. I see this as vindictive but also as racially motivated. As Trump has gone to great lengths to undo the forward progressive thinking of the Obama administration what has been the positive result?  In all areas of policy from abortion, to gay rights, to environmental protections, to civil rights protections are being rolled back. Do you think the LGBTQ community embraces Trump? Women? Minorities? The poor? The sick? The Non-Evangelicals? I don’t think I need to give the answer, because it is an obvious and resounding, no.

Lots of show and theatrical ballyhoo. Despite what he wants us to believe, Donald Trump connects with about 35% of our populace. Yet, because of many voters disillusioned by the rhetoric and high prices decided to stay home and not participate in 2024. And because enough Americans had been convinced the caravans of immigrants would soon overwhelm our southern border Trump won again. And because we were not careful, we are once again suffering under his rule. Using the power of the Executive Order Trump is with each day sweeping away protections for more and more citizens, while attempting to erase DEI and other beneficial programs.

Executive Orders. Trump & choir are ramping up the rhetoric to eliminate the 14th Amendment. He claims he can Executive Order it right out of existence. The question then becomes, if the Supreme Court supports his power to eliminate amendments does that mean he can begin writing new constitutional amendments? Sounds crazy but that’s how dictatorships are born. It’s time to wake up America you are watching the actions of a classic racist demagogue.

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30 Ways to Honor Our Heroes

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30 Ways to Honor Our Heroes On Memorial Day

30 Ways to Honor Our Heroes On Memorial Day

Editor: Memorial Day is a day to remember and honor those who have died serving in the US. military, both in times of war and peace.

By Cate Rees-Hessel & Wes Hessel

 

Remember and Honor…

The current occupant of the Oval Office may think the military are “suckers and losers”, but we as a nation under God know differently. Our military gives their all for our country and we remember them this Memorial Day with heavy hearts and extreme admiration.

A Prayer of Thanks for Freedom

“Heavenly Father, thank You for the precious gift of freedom, the freedom to worship, to speak, and to live according to our conscience. On this Memorial Day, we remember with deep gratitude the brave men and women who gave their lives so that we might enjoy these liberties. Their sacrifice reflects the love of Christ, who laid down His life so that we might be eternally free. Help us use our freedom wisely, to serve others, seek justice, and reflect Your light in a world longing for peace. Comfort the families who have lost loved ones in service, and remind them that their sacrifice was not in vain. May we live each day with thankfulness and courage, honoring both their memory and Your grace. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

Commemorate Before Sun-a-brate

Memorial Day officially ushers in the summer season despite the cooler weather. Here are some fun ways to celebrate this holiday. Let’s honor our veterans that have given their lives in service of our country, making the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom…

  1. Attend a mass or service on Memorial Day – light a candle for a military member that has passed. What better way to honor our fallen service members? Pray for our men and women in uniform.
  2. Send a card or gift to a military person; those on active duty would love some home baked cookies – older veterans may welcome a visit or small gift. Let those who serve or have served know you care.
  3. Widows, widowers, and children of fallen soldiers might enjoy a present, also – a batch of cookies or a plant, perhaps.
  4. Memorial Day used to be called Decoration Day, so let’s decorate. Honor the graves of service members with flags or flowers. I even decorate our living room window.
  5. Red, white, and blue bunting, banners, and decor are great ways to get in the holiday spirit. Doors, patios, balconies, walls, and windows can all be decorated. I leave my patriotic decor up through Flag Day, July 4th, and Patriot’s Day.
  6. POW and MIA bracelets may be a thing of the past but a nice patriotic pair of earrings or necklace looks pretty for the holiday.
  7. Picnics and barbecues can be fun. Grocery prices are sky high thanks to Trump’s tariffs, try new economical recipes with less red meat – try grilling fruits and veggies. Keep food safe from warm temperatures, iced or cooled until time to eat salads and cold sandwiches.
  8. Parades, as well as outdoor concerts and films are free activities for the whole family to enjoy.
  9. Avoid sparklers or other fireworks by your self – they can cause very serious injuries. No one wants a trip to the ER – that’s no way to celebrate
  10. Veterans in nursing facilities might like a visit – make a new friend.
  11. Patriotic films can be found online, on streaming services, and at your local libraries.
  12. Many pools and water parks open Memorial Day weekend, providing the temperature is warm enough. Use a safe sunscreen (ones containing only zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide are the best) and enjoy water play. Remember SPF lip balm, also. It’s fun to hit the beach, but check conditions and bacteria levels locally before swimming – do the same for lakes. Install a weather app on your phone for quick updates on air quality, temperatures, and storm warnings.
  13. Pay attention to boating safety if you decide to do some sailing. Keep keys on a floating chain, at least enough life preservers on for everyone in the boat, and a well charged cell phone in a waterproof case with you at all times.
  14. If it rains, an indoor picnic is just as much fun. Indoor grills are a great way to bring the outdoors inside. A movie with a military theme can be streamed for a fun afternoon.
  15. Check ingredients before allowing pets any of the celebratory fare. Onions, garlic, grapes, raisins, and chocolate are some of the foods toxic to our fur babies.
  16. Remember summer is a short season, so patriotic items are usually inexpensive. Some stores will put them on sale after Memorial Day, so you can stock up for the 4th.
  17. Take a walk in the park, hike, or bike ride – summer is finally here. Some cities have free or minimal fee bike rentals available. Enjoy some sunshine but don’t forget to use a safe SPF.
  18. Use the long weekend to clean out your garage or basement. Power wash your deck or patio, and outdoor furniture. It’s time to get everything season ready.
  19. It’s a great weekend to wash the car or the dog in the backyard, weather permitting.
  20. Start a vegetable and flower garden – fresh vegetables and fruit you grow yourself are nutritious, taste great, and rewarding. And who does not love the look and fragrance of beautiful flowers?
  21. Don’t forget the insect repellent – check websites like the CDC and Consumer Reports about the safety of the various active chemicals; I still like the Skin So Soft products by Avon, myself.
  22. If you have allergies to bug bites, food or the like, carry your EpiPen, and your inhaler if your asthmatic. Hotter temperatures can intensify reactions.
  23. Stay hydrated – water is important in avoiding heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
  24. Sunburn cream can be kept in the refrigerator for a nice cooling effect. Lipsticks, lip balms, and eye pencils are less likely to melt if kept cold, also. Toners are more refreshing when chilled, as well.
  25. I am addicted to indoor plumbing, so camping does not work for me, but if you are inclined to enjoy nature this way, keep safety first and foremost. Know where you are – carry physical maps and a compass. Most cell phones go out of range when far from civilization. Have provisions such as hand sanitizer, wipes, extra socks, antibiotic, and burn ointment and Band-Aids with you, as well as acetaminophen and water with you. You might want to carry a pocket size Lysol for those outhouses. Keep a cooler with ice for anything perishable to avoid dehydration and food poisoning. Nothing can ruin a trip more than an unprepared and unexpected injury or illness. S’mores are great, but bring clean metal sticks to use over the campfire. Respect nature by cleaning up your camp site. Consider a tree hanging shower pack. Personally, I feel a nice camper with a kitchen and bathroom inside at a camp site or a cabin on the campground is a bit more my way of roughing it. Cabins have indoor plumbing facilities; guess I am a hotel kind of girl.
  26. If you are traveling for Memorial Day, make sure your gas tank is full – carry a tire gauge, jumper cables, and Fix-A-Flat or the equivalent, as well as coolant and water in your trunk. Have transmission and brake fluid on hand, also. Check your vehicle’s oil and get it changed if necessary. Make sure your battery is well charged. Better safe than sorry, is my motto. Keep your motor club and insurance cards handy, too. Be extra cautious this year with Trump’s deportations. There have been American citizens caught in this horrific, racist web of lies.
  27. Many restaurants have outdoor patios to dine al fresco – search the Internet for money saving coupons and offers. There may be chalkboard specials as well.
  28. Festival season has begun. Wear your comfortable shoes and carry a light jacket for weather fluctuations. A bag chair or other portable seating is a must, also. Check policies before bringing a cooler. Many venues might require that you carry clear purses or tote bags – leave anything that might be problematic at home or locked in your car, out of sight. Carry a charged portable charger with you. Avoid wearing expensive jewelry, and keep cash and credit/debit cards on your person.
  29. Enjoy your loved ones, include your fur babies, but make sure pets are permitted at your outdoor events. Check local leash laws, and bring a travel water bowl for Rover or Fluffy, when attending events close to home. When traveling with animals, pack a small favorite toy, disposable litter pan (for cats), and baggies of food. Furry friends likely won’t need clothes in warm temperatures but a cute neckerchief never hurts. Make sure dogs are on a leash and have vaccine information handy. Remember, if you are warm in your skin, imagine how hot they must be in their fur – keep pets hydrated and cool. Bring a cold wet washcloth in a bag or container.
  30. As a final suggestion, carry a few disposable bags, hopefully sustainable ones, for any trash you may accumulate. Find a garbage can or take the rubbish home to dispose of – never litter or just leave debris behind.

Let’s take care of our planet; God bless America and our service members that actually have made and do make America Great. Let’s all resist the Donald’s military parade on June 14th- we are not a dictatorship we don’t grovel before wanna be dictators or honor them with military parades.

Cynicism and Corruption in Politics

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Cynicism and Corruption in Politics

 

Cynicism and Corruption in Politics

by Vajra Ma ©

I’ve been dialoguing with Trump supporters recently trying to understand their perspective. One individual made a statement that stopped me in my tracks. He said, quite firmly, “All politicians are corrupt. You have to be corrupt to be a politician. There’s nothing I can do about that. I like Trump because he’s a businessman, not a politician.” [author’s emphasis] I’ve understood all along MAGAs see governmental corruption and want it stopped. I too, see corruption and want it stopped. So, what is the difference between the MAGAs and me?

A fantasy monologue to my friend led me down a line of thought into a surprising answer.

The man I studied acting with for seventeen years, Tad Danielewski, said two things I’ll never forget. The first: “Despair is not an option.” This, coming from a man who experienced the worst of humanity. During WWII he fought in the Polish underground, was captured by the Nazis and thrown into one of their death camps. Eventually, at 95 pounds, he was lifted by a British soldier into a rescue truck.

Tad studied at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts, moved to the U.S., won an Emmy for directing the documentary Africa and became head of talent at NBC in New York where he trained such notable actors as Martin Sheen, Sigourney Weaver, James Earl Jones, Cicely Tyson and Mercedes Ruehl.

Why do I tell you all this? Because in 1976, after all this survival and accomplishment, he accepted an invitation from Brigham Young University to head the Department of Theatre and Film (where I met him). Why did he accept this position in deep Mormon country? This is the second thing I’ll never forget, his answer: “Because I was on the edge of becoming cynical.” [end of fantasy]

What does this tell me about cynicism? Tad was drawn to the Mormons because they are not cynical. I myself was a sincere Mormon convert in my twenties. With hindsight, I see a deep rot and corruption in that church, yet at the same time—and here is my point—at the same time, I see good, sincere people aiming to do the right thing. Life is not black and white. It is a mixed bag. To fail to see this is to fail to see reality.

My friend views politics through the lens of cynicism: “The belief that people are only interested in themselves and are not sincere.” (Cambridge Dictionary online) He views all politicians with “an attitude of scornful or jaded negativity, especially a general distrust of the integrity or the professed motives of others.” (The Free Dictionary online) As if a “businessman” in the White House could or would not be corrupt.

I see the corruption in politicians, but I see it in varying degrees which are not always discernable as to how much and what over. In this mixed bag I also see the sincerity of a number of politicians aiming to serve The People’s “life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.” But my friend, blinded by cynicism, sees only the corruption. One broad brushstroke for all. Cynicism blocks discernment of the mixed bag reality. If we fail to see reality, we are part of the problem we point at. In other words, we are part of the corruption.

Cynicism itself is corruption.

Cynicism is a simplistic, perhaps lazy, escape from responsibility—the ability to respond—to corruption. “There’s nothing I can do about that.” If we refuse to deal with the complexities of that troublesome mixed bag, cynicism will use a chainsaw instead of the scalpel that discernment requires.

Dictators criticize democracy as cumbersome and slow-moving. Elon’s gleeful chainsaw jig on the CPAC (Conservative Political Action Conference) stage gave us a visible performance of the cynicism that “justifies” slashing the livelihood and family stability of workers in the cumbersome  “deep state”. Russell Vought, main architect of Project 2025 and Donald’s current Director of the Office of Management and Budget, said in a leaked video over a year ago: “We will traumatize the federal workers.” This pre-meditated plot to execute trauma on human beings is the corruption of cynicism in full force.

Underpinning cynicism is the terror of being duped, of being “taken in,” of being “fooled” by a goodness the cynic very much fears is not actually there for him. And in caving to that fear, in an attempt to never be “taken in,” the cynic unwittingly opens the door to the very decline into corruption he criticizes.

The Authoritarian trades in black and white. “They are black, I am white. I can fixt it. ”MAGAs seek safety from fear with black and white answers. A keep it simple, stupid, mentality.  “The politicians are corrupt. Businessman Donald is not.” So they elect the White One to Fix It. “He will drain the swamp!” And before you can say “a hundred days,” he’s stocked it with agency eating alligators.

 

Author’s note: Thanks to Ava Park of Irvine, CA for her input into this article.

 

 

 

Joe Did, Trump Did . .

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Joe Did, Trump Did…

Joe Biden vs Donald Trump

 

 

Joe Did, Trump Did . . .

 

By Cate Rees-Hessel

 

Although I have made my position known on President Biden remarking, “Welcome home”, to Donald Trump, I don’t like it at all that Joe said that during Trump’s travesty of an inauguration. I feel strongly that you never say, “Welcome home”, to a traitor. I still have the utmost respect for Joe, and will always love him. “Welcome home” is a term of endearment and the comment I do feel was inappropriate to say the least, but despite the faux pas Biden will go down in history as one of our greatest presidents.

I can agree to disagree with those I care about on most subjects but “The Donald” is a bone of contention with me, not to mention the majority of his followers can not be reasoned with. Having made my position clear, please allow me to point out the extreme differences between President Biden and “The Donald”. As my husband would say, the difference between the two is like day and nightmare…

  1.  President Biden makes me smile. Trump makes we cry, shake my head in wonder, and at times laugh at his stupidity, because Dumpty has made America the laughing stock of the world.
  2. Joe Biden’s administration gave seniors insulin for $35; Trump took it away immediately after taking office.
  3. President Biden gave confidence to a young boy that stutters, showing compassion, and giving the youth his private phone number. Trump maliciously made fun of a disabled journalist and suggested his own disabled nephew “should be left to die.”
  4. Joe gave us our first female VP; Trump grabs them “by the p____”.
  5. Biden is responsible for the Violence Against Women Act; Trump has used violence against women.
  6. President Joe pardoned his son; “The Donald” pardoned those that participated in his insurrection.
  7. Joe prayed during his inauguration; Trump held a Bible upside down outside of a church he does not attend, then scribbled on God’s Word, selling made in China versions of the Good Book for $60, claiming every household should have a Bible. I agree that everyone needs access to God’s Word but if you can’t afford sixty bucks, you still deserve a Bible. Take note that the orange haired monster never said everyone should read the Bible – he admits he does not read books.
  8. Biden has not had any marital scandals; “The Donald” has committed adultery on many occasions and brags about it.
  9. Joe brought us beautiful Dr. Biden, an educated and beautiful First Lady of dignity and class; Trump brought us the only first “lady” with a staple in her navel and a history of naked pictures in cheap slut magazines.
  10. Joe built bridges with a much needed infrastructure plan; Donald continues to tout his unfinished racist wall.
  11. Joe Biden gave President Carter’s eulogy; Trump refused to allow flags at half-mast for Jimmy.
  12. Biden brought two adorable dogs and a cat to the White House; Champ and Major. Trump promoted trophy hunting and poked fun at pet owners.
  13. Joe Biden honored MLK, the man synonymous with peace; Trump is an avowed racist and violence supporter.
  14. President Biden wanted a path to citizenship for dreamers; Trump began mass deportation the first day back in office.
  15. Joe created jobs and unemployment was down in record numbers; the orange haired monster has already caused migrant workers to not show up for work.
  16. President Biden ended the pandemic, got us vaccines, reopened the economy, and gave the largest amount of stimulus. He rehired Dr. Fauci and now COVID is much less frightening and treatable. Trump refused to acknowledge or utilize the pandemic National Security Counsel Directorate for Global Health and Security and bio defense plan that the dishonest Mitch McConnell is trying to deny the existence of that the Obama administration put in place. Because of Trump millions died from COVID, not to mention many people have long term effects from the virus, and our economy is still suffering the effects of the pandemic.
  17. Biden works to end war and negotiates the safe return of hostages; the orange haired devil thrives on violence in any and every form.
  18. Joe and the Obama administration brought about much needed healthcare reform, providing insurance to millions; “The Donald” wants to end Medicaid, Medicare, and Social Security- the life line for the middle and working classes. Medicaid pays for nearly all nursing home care for seniors AND on the other end of the scale and half of the births in the United States.
  19. President Biden is a champion for safe gun laws; Trump has the NRA in his pocket (or maybe vice versa…).
  20. Joe Biden signed into law the Social Security Fairness Act, protecting the money that teachers and first responders paid into the SSA. This legislation was originally proposed all the way back in September of 2022 – Biden got it done. Trump wants to rob seniors and the disabled of their funds. Joe Biden shows respect for the LGBTQ community; Trump on day one of his second term attacked trans individuals’ rights. amongst others.
  21. President Biden is a law abiding attorney; “The Donald” is convicted felon that belongs nowhere near the Oval Office. He should not be allowed to take so much as a White House tour – Trump belongs behind bars.
  22. Biden was never impeached; Trumpty Dumpty has the unique distinction of being impeached twice…so far.
  23. Joe fights racism and anti-Semitism, and has been doing so for decades; Trump is completely anti-Semetic and a racist to everyone that is not a rich white arch-conservative male.
  24. President Biden went into action immediately to control the recent wildfires that have wrecked havoc in southern California. Trump thinks windmills cause cancer and that global warming is a hoax. Science saves lives, let’s not forget it.

I plan on writing more about Trump’s atrocious mishandling of everything he touches and more about President Biden’s years of public service. I have just begun to resist…

OPINION: The Myth of Elon Musk

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OPINION: The Myth of Elon Musk

OPINION: The Myth of Elon Musk

Editor: A version of this post came off the internet from “Lillian” who posted a version of this condemnation of Elon Musk on the social media platform X. Bravo, sister, let’s slap this SOB right in his criminal face. I personally support the  revocation of Musk’s U.S, citizenship and a fast flight back to South Africa for him. This guy is no American, in spirit or action. It is only because of the Supreme Court’s flawed and disastrous Citizens United decision that Musk was able to donate over $250,000,000 (!)  to re-elect Donald J. Trump. It is only now that we are getting a glimpse of what Musk’s money was buying. 

D.S. Mitchell

A Rich Cat

The myth of Elon Musk is fast collapsing. He is not a genius. He is not a visionary. He is not a creator, or a builder. He is just another rich cat playing us. His persona has been hyped for the last decade plus as the brilliant businessman, changing the world for the better with electric cars and cutting edge technology. Space exploration. The colonization of the moon and even Mars. As with many things that glitter, Musk is neither gold nor diamonds. Elon Musk is a fake and a phony. He has been given, or taken, credit for the work of others while burning through U.S. taxpayers money like a California wildfire.

Behind the Curtain

Musk didn’t create Tesla. He bought it. He didn’t invent SpaceX, engineers did. He didn’t create PayPal, in fact, the company fired his arrogant narcissist ass. Obviously, the reason he was fired was because he couldn’t work or play with the other billionaire narcissists at the company. He wasn’t out of work for long, however. Suddenly, he manifests as a contractor for the U.S. government, thank you SpaceX and Tesla. U.S. taxpayer’s have propped Musk up for at least the last decade and a half. OMG, our tax dollars are supporting his CHINESE car company.

South African Roots

Apartheid, was the name given to the social system of racial segregation created by the white-ruled country of South Africa. The system was harsh and deeply institutionalized and legally enforced. Musk grew up in apartheid South Africa. Musk, a rich, white kid, born into the era of apartheid, has a distorted view of human skin color. Clearly, Musk is unable to separate himself from his roots. Multiple lawsuits against his companies alleging discrimination and untenable working conditions by persons of color is concerning.  Is this really a man we want making decisions about Medicare, Medicaid, Social Security and who those biases might effect? This guy and his family benefitted off the near slave labor of black miners at the South African emerald mines they owned.

Marketing Slut

Musk is not a brilliant scientist/environmentalist, he is instead a marketing slut doing anything to keep his face in front of the public, a certifiable attention addict; anything to get us to look his way, a man desperate for adulation. Every day Musk is tweeting far right conspiracy theories, picking cyber fights, and embarrassing himself and his adopted country. While true leaders lift up those in need, Musk, like Trump, pushes them face down into the dirt. While leaders innovate, Musk destroys. His sociopathic quest for attention and front page media coverage, will I’m sure lead to his eventual collapse. In the entertainment industry it’s called overexposure. The continuous media spotlight  on Musk has resulted in more than eye rolls; it has resulted in growing disfavor and rejection of the man and what he represents. There comes a point when merely a picture of the celebrity causes us to turn away. I have turned my back on Elon Musk.

Backlash From  the Street

Musk thinks he is above the law and public reprisal.  It’s apparent he thinks there will be no backlash for his destruction of the agencies that serve millions of people in this country. I’m done with secret billionaire clicks and their Supreme Court flunkies. Speaking as an American I don’t like what I’m seeing coming from Musk/Trump. The American public wants solutions, not hucksters and tricksters. Unfortunately, what we have is an unelected “surrogate”- “a sometimes U.S. President” arm-in-arm with the fat, old, tired, and psychopathic Donald Trump who can’t find the toilet paper hanging on the wall next to him.

On the Street

Tesla owners are being confronted on the street and educated about Tesla and Musk, often in less than glorious language. Crowds carrying signs and shouting insults are showing up at Tesla dealerships around the world; not just in the United States.  I feel it-people are emerging from the mind numbing shock of Trump’s election, asking desperately, “what can I do?” to stop the billionaire assault on the very structure of our government.

A Growing Out Cry

A new Resistance is forming. The dazed and shell-shocked opponents of Trump and his gang of modern day robber barons are finding their voices and stepping up their defiance. The crowds are growing in size by the day; turning out to protest the unprecedented intrusion into the very heart of our government. DOGE (Department of Government Efficiency) led by Musk’s gang of youthful cyber hackers, all under 25, are looking at millions of sensitive records at the Social Security department, the VA, the Defense Department, the IRS,  Medicare, and Medicaid, with what intent?

No Good Intent

It’s clear that multiple agencies designed to help millions of disadvantaged American, going back to the Franklin Delano Roosevelt administration of the 1930’s-1940’s are under intense attack. Why have all the Inspector General’s been canned? These are the very folks that weed out fraud, corruption, and abuse. If this DOGE stunt was really about fraud, corruption and abuse, Musk should be working with the IG’s, not firing them. However, this should be no surprise, Musk was worried that several of the fired IG’s were investigating him and his companies. I don’t like seeing rich guys, like Musk, and our felonious co-president, Donald Trump, flaunt the law just because of they have fat  bank accounts.

Oligarchs and Kleptocrats

In a kleptocracy, corrupt politicians secretly, or not so secretly, enrich themselves outside the rule of law, through kickbacks, bribes, and special favors, or by simply redirecting government funds to themselves and their friends and associates via contracts and special concessions. This is the world of the Oligarch. We can’t  let their money and power intimidate us and those who will stand with us. What is emerging is a world wide struggle between the rich and the hordes of the poor. I can’t imagine anything that polls worse in America than the richest man in the world coming after Public education, your Social Security check, your VA healthcare, your Meals on Wheels, or your neighborhood Head Start.

What Can I Do?

I know you’re tired and I understand that you don’t think you can do another 4 years of protests. I want to assure you, we are all tired; exhausted in fact, but our democracy is quite literally in the crosshairs of the dictators. We can sleep later, what we need now is activism. Indivisible, MoveOn, 5Calls.org, democracydoccket.com, are all organizations that can help you direct your anger and focus on the goal to clean out the billionaires from our government and their Republican allies in the House and the Senate. I’m ready to start marching, hollering my head off, and raising my middle finger in response to Musk’s Nazi salute. Just remember that there are a hell of a lot more of us than them.

 

Trump’s Terrible Legacy

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Trump’s Terrible Legacy 

Trump’s Terrible Legacy 

By Cate Rees-Hessel

 

Not Again

As we approach Trump’s second inauguration, something I thought I would never say, allow me to point out 25 things he has done prior to his taking office again in 2025. We must resist this insanity…

  1. The pandemic – need I say more. So many deaths while the Donald told us COVID-19 was nothing to be afraid of; he then tried to take credit for the life saving vaccines that President Biden put into play to save lives and end the pandemic. So very many businesses closed permanently and are still shutting down. Many retailers and restaurants reduced their hours as our economy completely shut down, and the resulting skyrocketing costs are still with us now. Trump’s minions refused to comply with President Biden mask mandate or believe in science despite Dr. Fauci’s warnings.
  2. The Donald is trying to take credit for all of President Biden’s accomplishments, like the much needed infrastructure bill and the $35 insulin cap for seniors…
  3. Trump is a convicted felon who can’t vote, so how can he be in public office, especially the Oval Office? He is a rapist. What a horrific message we are sending our young ladies. The adulterer that talks about amazing sex with wives of friends is who the right wing fundamentalists are worshiping. Have no other gods before Him is what the Bible teaches us, yet they place the orange haired monster that held a Bible upside down on a pedestal.
  4. Our country is a world wide laughing stock, and history is about to repeat itself.
  5. Donnie boy is delusional, making remarks about being better looking and smarter than our beautiful and intelligent Vice President, the woman who by my thinking, should have won the 2024 election.
  6. Trump promises to be a dictator from day one, threatening to over throw our democracy, telling his brainwashed followers they will never need to vote again. He is old and in apparently poor health, so who does he think will run the country when he is gone? JD Vance is inexperienced and heavily disliked by both parties. Vance referred to “The Donald” as a Hitler prior to becoming his running mate. Mike Pence his first running mate refused to run with him again.
  7. January 6th – need I elaborate? The blood-curdling violence that shook our nature to the very core. Where were the fundamentalists? Why didn’t they pray for peace?
  8. Hitler faked assassination attempts during his reign of terror, and I honestly believe so did the Donald in Butler, PA, this past summer, and later at the golf course. There are many suspicious things regarding these shootings. There was innocent loss of life at that rally…
  9. Mass deportation awaits us. I am very glad to see sheriff’s departments refusing to comply with Trump’s racist hatred, especially since it would likely be an unfunded mandate…
  10. He made fun of a disabled journalist, mocking the man for having been born with a disability.
  11. He threatens to remove Social Security, leaving seniors and those on disability with no means of support. He wants to cut federal nutrition programs, and is now telling his followers that reducing the cost of groceries will be very difficult.
  12. Tax cuts for billionaires, while our money that was paid into social security, he wants to stop hard working retirees from receiving money we earned.
  13. His anti-Semitism is so very apparent, wishing he had generals just like Hitler had.
  14. His wife, our first naked “first lady”, and a complete embarrassment to our country.
  15. Elon Musk, enough said.
  16. Selling tacky tennis shoes, Trumpy Bears, and vodka, late night television junk, unbefitting a public official, yet alone the president.
  17. He has the audacity to autograph Bibles, as if the Word of God actually needs an endorsement from a convicted criminal. This is clearly blasphemous, egocentric behavior.
  18. Trump feels he is above the law, and had the complete nerve to say that black folks will now understand him because he is a convicted felon. This despicable racist comment stands against common decency and we need to fight back.
  19. “Windmills cause cancer,” again enough said.
  20. When asked this so called Christian what Easter is about he said to spend time with family. The actual gospels, had he ever read it, not just turned it over outside of church he never attended, clearly explains that Easter is the core of the Christian faith, the resurrection of Jesus. Sure, we can spend Easter with family, but that’s not the actual reason for the Easter celebration. Any member of any Christian denomination should understand this to be Christianity 101…
  21. Trophy hunting, penned animals; yet again enough said.
  22. He is incapable of opening the door to a garbage truck. How can he run the nation?
  23. His cabinet choices make no sense – pandering at its worst.
  24. He brags about the destruction of reproductive freedom, while a woman having a natural occurring miscarriage are now likely to bleed to death in hospital parking lots instead of receiving standard life saving care.
  25. Project 2025, a very frightening proposition of right wing idiocy that can literally destroy our freedom.

Putin’s Puppet

Please, President Biden, invoke the Fourteenth Amendment now to stop “Donnie boy” from destroying America. Merrick Garland please do your best to put him in prison, where he certainly belongs before it’s too late. We don’t want Trump’s terrible legacy which can lead to the ruination of our nation as we know it, further damaging the country we hold dear. The evil one who called our hard working military “suckers” and “losers” will once again have access to our nuclear codes – Putin’s puppet can cause an all out nuclear war.

The Anti-Christ and McDonald’s

God help us, please save our nation from this false prophet who is an anti-Christ and the biggest danger to our democracy in history. Trump is not just a few fries short of a happy meal, he is missing the cheeseburger. He is not capable of running our country anywhere but into the ground. Resist – we are not going back. Ruth Bader Ginsburg has passed the torch down to us – it’s time to stand up for what’s right and “The Donald” is just not right about anything. When we fight we win. Let’s follow Michele Obama’s sound advice and “Do something”. I pray for peace, and hope for a miracle, because the Donald just won’t do…

Deals No One Bought, Or Should Ever Buy

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Deals No One Bought, Or Should Ever Buy

Trump is selling everything from sneakers to water.

Deals No One Bought, Or Should Ever Buy

By Cate Rees-Hessel with Wes Hessel

  1. That damn Trumpy Bear from late night television.
  2. Trump Vodka – we have enough Russian piss to deal with…
  3. Tacky gold sneakers that are certainly not Chucks.
  4. JD Vance hair care kit (clarifying shampoo definitely not included) – his hair isn’t the only thing that is oily…
  5. Donald Trump Chia head.
  6. MAGA (made proudly in China) red hat – watch for the tariff exception…
  7. Anything souvenir to do with the Trump inauguration.
  8. A 2024 calendar (election sold separately)…
  9. Beaded Trump head earrings – yes, I actually saw these hideous creations online…
  10. Earrings made of safety pins – they won’t help hold our nation together (or fix any of the gross damage)…
  11. Fake pearl toilet paper earrings left over from 2020. We all have enough crap to deal with…
  12. Trump’s memoirs for bathroom reading – should you receive this as a “gift” and run out of toilet paper, be prepared for a hefty plumbing bill…
  13. Anything from the boxes in the Mar-A-Largo bathroom.
  14. A membership in the JD Vance Barefoot and Pregnant Society.
  15. Putin puppet theater, complete with an orange-haired marionette.
  16. Red neck ties (read that any way you want)…
  17. “Fail to the Chief” remix recording, sung by Hershel and the Hillbillies..
  18. Vintage Apprentice bored game
  19. Box set of “The Apprentice” on VHS
  20. Cat and dog dinnerware.
  21. Deportation vacation.
  22. Commemorative brick from the fallen border wall.
  23. Trump garbage truck.
  24. Big Mac gift certificate.
  25. McDonald’s French fry machine replica toy used by Donnie boy – most parents prefer educational toys…
  26. McDonald’s Not Happy Meal with a toy Trump figurine.
  27. Anything designed by Melania.
  28. Fake blood pellets left over from the Donald’s fake assassination attempt.
  29. Trumpo-monopoly game – missing the Get Out of Jail Free card
  30. Autographed Trump mug shot – wait a minute, this I might buy…
  31. Vance and Trump candle set – um, hold on…
  32. “My Pillow” anything.
  33. Pussy cat stuffed animal that hisses when you grab it (caution: kitty also has claws…)
  34. Locker talk handbook for creepy old men.
  35. Orange toupee.
  36. A video of “The Donald” swaying to a 45 minute 1960’s music playlist.
  37. JD Vance non-fashion doll.
  38. 34 guaranteed felony escape gift certificates…
  39. Toy Trump Train – no self-respecting tree would have that thing underneath it; besides, personally I’m still ridin’ with Biden…
  40. Anything signed by the blasphemous Donald – I have no respect for anyone who scribbles on the Word of God, nor does the Scriptures need anyone’s endorsement, especially from someone consistently breaks the majority, if not all, of the Ten Commandments…

For Giving Tuesday (or any other time), support any or all of these or other progressive organizations, by giving what you can or by volunteering. In the wise words of Michelle Obama, this holiday season and beyond, “do something”…

The Christian Left: https://donorbox.org/friends-of-tcl

The Progressive Jewish Fund (PJF): https://www.nif.org/get-involved/ways-to-give/pjf/

Democratic National Committee (DNC): https://democrats.org/

The Barack Obama Foundation: https://www.obama.org/

MoveOn: https://front.moveon.org/

The Lincoln Project: https://lincolnproject.us/

National Organization for Women (NOW): https://now.org/

Planned Parenthood: https://www.plannedparenthood.org/

ACLU: https://www.aclu.org/

Southern Poverty Law Center: https://www.splcenter.org/

Wildlife Conservation Society (formerly World Wildlife Federation): https://www.wcs.org/

The Humane Society of the United States: https://www.humanesociety.org/

American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA): https://www.aspca.org/

PETA: https://www.peta.org/

Sierra Club: https:`//www.sierraclub.org/

National Audubon Society: https://www.audubon.org/

World Food Program USA (WFP – part of UN): https://www.wfpusa.org/

Feeding America: https://www.feedingamerica.org/

March of Dimes: https://www.marchofdimes.org/

Doctors Without Borders: https://www.doctorswithoutborders.org/

UNICEF: https://www.unicefusa.org/

The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR): https://www.unrefugees.org/

The Trevor Project: https://www.thetrevorproject.org/

Amnesty International (AI) USA: https://www.amnestyusa.org/

 

Who Would You Rather Run the Nation?

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Who Would You Rather Run the Nation?

I'd rather be Joe Biden than Donald Trump

Who Would You Rather Run the Nation?

Editor’s Note: Over the last couple days most of the political talk shows have been rehashing Joe’s poor debate performance. I think it involved terrible optics. Why did his people allow him to be facing away from the camera? Whoever it was on the presidents team that okay’d the studio lighting should be horsewhipped. And the total incompetent that was responsible for Joe’s make up should be fired.  So much of what happened was visual. In response to all the negative chatter Cate Rees-Hessel and hubby Wes Hessel wants to have a word with you. 

 

By Cate Rees-Hessel with Wes Hessel

 

Winner, and Still Champion…

After the first presidential debate, I must say that I honestly feel President Biden won. Why? Because he actually answered the questions, didn’t whine or insult like a spoiled brat, and he was honest. Would you rather have a slow talker that tells the truth, or a fast-talking felon as president? Yes, it comes down to this.

A Real Leader

Joe had a cold – his voice was a bit soft and raspy, but his answers were solid. He spoke slowly with his stutter, but that has never stopped him from being an effective leader. He has even helped empowered a little boy who has a stammer challenge, because Joe Biden is a good man. He cares about America. Even if you felt his lost his train of thought at times during the debate, many of us need to pause to think in order to give an intelligent answer. Taking a moment to compose yourself is not a sign of weakness, especially when you’re not feeling well from a bad cold – our President got the job done, because he is a professional. “The Donald” was arrogant, spewing the same old hate instead of giving legitimate answers.

Run, Joe, Run…

After the debate, our president said he walks a bit different, does not debate as well, but knows he can continue to run our nation because he is mentally and physically fit. He quipped that he is not a young man – that is stating the obvious – but I truly feel he does not look or act his age at all. When he accepted his victory in 2020, Joe jogged to the podium like a man half his age – that was only four years ago. I can recall President Obama stating that before his presidency he was a much younger man. The office can age a person, but President Biden is still as strong as ever.

Breakfast (Lunch, and Dinner) of Champions

He was on fire when he gave the State of the Union a few months back. One slow talking debate does not mean he is not able to continue being a strong leader. Donald Trump is only three years younger than President Biden. Just look at them – it’s clear Joe is in better shape than Trump, and that’s without the hair and makeup jobs that Trump has used for years. President Biden eats nutritious food, not a diet of junk food; he exercises and does not have the stress of a possible jail sentence like the Donald has.

Running Mate

Joe Biden also has a very capable vice president if Lord forbid something were to happen to him. Kamala Harris is a very capable woman that can run the country well. Trump has not even chosen a running mate – Lord only knows whom our president would be if Trump’s felony convictions or poor diet catch up with him. Rumor has it Marco Rubio may be his choice, and frankly Marco scares me with his extremist mind set and Tea Party-type association.

Just a Number

Age is just a number. Patrick Stewart at 84 is a fine actor, intelligent and powerful and still a little bit sexy. Engelbert Humperdinck is still entertaining audiences live at age 88 with a clear voice, moving about the stage with vigor and grace. Carol Burnett is still on the tube for MTV at 91, and Dick Van Dyke is going strong at 98 years old. And Clint Eastwood is still directing movies at 94. In fact, his recent thriller “Juror #2” should be released around Christmas. The number of capable senior citizens that continue to handle challenging careers is growing.

The Right Choice

I am voting for the silver fox, in the ever so cool Aviators. Joe Biden, is one of the best presidents to ever serve this country. Joe Biden is the first real working man’s president. Joe Biden knows what its like to worry if there will be enough money to make it through the month. He will stand up to terrorists, foreign and domestic. His administration has created a record number of jobs, cares about the environment and women’s rights, including reproductive freedom. Women with unsafe pregnancies that are approaching death’s door before they can get the medical treatment they need, can rely on Joe Biden to save their lives. He will protect the children already on this Earth with nutritious school lunches, quality child and health care.

Clean Up Man

Are prices higher than before Joe Biden took office? Yes, they are because during Trump’s reign of terror, the pandemic raged unchecked, leading to rampant deaths and economic collapse. Americans are back at work now, thanks to the hard work of Joe and Democratic lawmakers, and it’s only a matter of time before prices begin to decline, but only if President Biden remains in office. Trump gives tax breaks to big business and the ultra-wealthy, not caring if Americans can put food on the table.

…vs. Sell His Soul

Maybe you don’t like President Biden, perhaps he is not your first choice for whatever reason, but please recognize he is the only choice, because the alternative(s) is unthinkable: a convicted felon that holds the Bible upside down and then tries to sell them for sixty dollars apiece. A racist that tries to claim a connection to the African American community because he is now a convicted criminal, and wears gold sneakers that he is also peddling. That is the biggest insult to the Black community that I can even imagine. And his claim that immigrants are stealing “black jobs” should outrage us all. And then the rarely mentioned third candidate Robert Kennedy Jr, who is an extremist anti-vaxxer who claims a now dead worm ate a portion of his brain. Oh my. The choice is clear, Joe gets four more years.

What a Leader Looks Like

The real man of God is the one who prayed during his inaugural speech, attends church on a regular basis for worship of the Higher Power, not himself, and does not participate in “locker room talk”. A convicted felon cannot vote, so how can one run for political office? Donald Trump, the person that wants to be president, has lost his right to vote – think about that. He didn’t belong in the Oval Office before, and he certainly does not now.

R-E-S-P-E-C-T

President Biden respects women – he wrote the Violence Against Women Act; he respects our military – his son served. He’s created a record number of good jobs, brought unemployment down, is daily working to protect our labor force and our unions. Joe stands up to large corporations, getting them to pay their fair share of taxes. He got insulin capped at $35.00, finally affordable for those that need it to control diabetes. Allowing Medicare (the government) to negotiate drug prices is another big Biden win.

Oh, Sleaze…

Donald Trump brought us the first “lady” with a belly button staple, President Biden brought us a beautiful Doctor of Education, a true lady. There is no doubt about it the Biden’s have brought class and dignity back to the White House. The Trump era had a mice infestation and a chief rat in the Oval Office. Don’t let our nation go back to being the laughingstock we were during the orange monster’s “presidency”. Trump had the audacity during the debate to refer to the Biden era as an embarrassment – this is surely the pot calling the kettle gray. There’s a reason, well, dozens of them, why he wasn’t reelected. Donald Trump promised a bloodbath if he does not win; don’t let that bully scare you, vote blue and the authorities will stop the violence. He promise to be a dictator from day one should on itself be disqualifying.

Democracy in Action

America is a democracy. We have the best economy in the world after the pandemic because Joe Biden took office – he is the clear choice. President Biden promises to stay in the race after this debate, because one debate does not define a President. A record of making a needed infrastructure bill happen, decreasing student loan debt, limiting rent raises for tenants, saving social security for our seniors, these things define a good president. “When you get knocked down, you get back up” – President Biden got right back up; ninety minutes does not define a presidency.

Go, Go, Go, Joe…

I agree with my girl Jill, there is no one I would rather see in the Oval Office than her husband, a President for the people, not a criminal puppet of Vladimir Putin. Let’s go Joe, four more years; there is still more work to be done, and you are the man to do it.

“Go, go, go, Joseph, you know what they say

Hang on now, Joseph, you’ll make it some day

Don’t give up, Joseph, fight till you drop

We’ve read the book, and you come out on top…”

(Go-Go-Go Joseph, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Andrew Lloyd Webber)

 

 

No Other “President” In History

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No Other “President” In History

Trump established many new firsts most of them bad, destructive and downright reprehensible

No Other “President” In History

 

By Cate Rees-Hessel & Wes Hessel

 

First Failure

I vowed when Trump took office to never call him “president”. For the sake of this article, I will loosely refer to him as such. “The Donald” is the first world leader to do many things but none of them are positive. Read on about Trump’s dubious “firsts”, and then vote blue:

No Other “President” In History

  1. First U.S. president to promise to be a dictator. America is a democracy, a republic technically, but still – our forefathers are spinning in their graves at this conduct.
  2. He is the first to want a military parade – not to honor our veterans but to seal the fact he wants to be a dictator.
  3. Refused to attend the inauguration of the newly elected President Biden – first president to not attend his successor’s inaugural ceremony in 152 years.
  4. Claimed the election was stolen from him because he lost, when in fact President Biden received 81,283,098,  a record number of popular votes.
  5. Trump was the first president to claim his predecessor (Obama) was not born in the United States and as such was disqualified from even running for the office.
  6. Has never released any tax returns – the first president in 45 years to have kept them secret.
  7. Lost party control of the House, Senate, and then his own office – first time in 89 years.
  8. Trump was the first president that failed to achieve at least a 50% approval rating at any time during his 4 years in office.
  9. Trump is the first president to openly support ”Christian Nationalism” – a.k.a. “white supremacy”.
  10. The first president ever indicted for crimes; paying off a porn star, mishandling classified documents, election law violations, etc., trying to hide behind an invented presidential immunity claim. At last count Trump had at least 88 felony charges against him, and in the words of Curly in “City Slickers”, “Day ain’t over yet…”
  11. First president to cause a foreign nation to issue a warrant for his arrest.
  12. Invited an insurrection – obviously first (and hopefully only) president to incite violent action against our government.
  13. Promises a national “bloodbath” if he loses the 2024 election.
  14. First former president to run for election after already losing his bid for a second term – first president in 28 years.
  15. Trump is the first former president to hawk bibles and gold painted high top sneakers to a weary late night television crowd.
  16. A Godless man using the faith of other to get votes, selling expensive Bibles to fleece far right wing supporters. Holding a Bible (upside down) he does not read, outside a church he does not attend, to get votes.
  17. Brought the first centerfold “first lady” into the White House.
  18. Insisted on visiting Pittsburgh after the synagogue shooting in the Squirrel Hill neighborhood. Trump disregarded the Jewish mourning process to sit shiva for the deceased, showing disrespect for the Jewish community.
  19. When Trump entered office he dissolved the Infectious Disease Task Force which was put in place by the Obama-Biden administration, to quickly address communicable disease issues. That action crippled the response to the COVID-19 pandemic leading to the death of 1,200,000 (or 120,000 depending again, on your source) in the U.S. He was the first president in a 120 years to preside over a crippling nationwide pandemic.
  20. Trump took credit for vaccines that President Biden was actually responsible for.
  21. Claimed in letters to Americans that he personally was responsible for the  first stimulus checks, when in fact it was the House of Representatives led by Nancy Pelosi that was responsible for the checks.
  22. First president to deliver fumbling, bumbling remarks about Easter, the Revolutionary War, and the Civil War with such iron pyrite nuggets such as, “Gettysburg, what an unbelievable battle that was. The Battle of Gettysburg, what an unbelievable-I mean, it was so much and so interesting, and so vicious and horrible, and so beautiful in so many different ways.”
  23. Another first when the former bragged about, “Grabbing  ’em by the p____” .
  24. A serial adulterer during each of his multiple marriages while claiming to be a Christian man.
  25. The first to  brag about overturning established legal precedent. Roe v. Wade was 50 years of established law when Donald’s Supreme Court overturned it. We now have chaos and confusion. leading to dangerous  pregnancy complications going untreated.
  26. Trump wants to see programs for children eliminated. He supports childhood poverty unless they’re white males.
  27. Encourages the repugnant practice of trophy hunting.
  28. Trump is Putin’s puppet – the first president believed to have won election  aided by a foreign power.
  29. Wants to destroy Social Security for seniors and disabled Americans.
  30. The first to mock and make fun of a disabled journalist
  31. Trump appointed Postal Service hater Louis DeJoy to head the USPS. With DeJoy in office, our mail arrives late in the day, if at all. The plan was to line his and wealthy supporter’s pockets with service outsource contracts by privatizing the Postal Service.
  32. The first candidate to advocate for the elimination of Obama Care, Medicare, and Medicaid, effectively making healthcare only for the rich, and the white.
  33. The first candidate who’s election speeches are more like a bad comedy act, threatening retribution and poking vicious “fun,” at the deep state, yet not once giving legitimate reasons to vote for him.
  34. Trump is supporting turning back time on women’s, LGBTQ, children’s, and minorities’ rights.
  35. The first to refuse to allow White House cleaning staff to clean specific areas of the WH, leading to a rodent infestation – of course, Trump is the biggest rat of all.
  36. Claimed victory for an election he didn’t win before all votes were counted – the first president to not concede their loss.
  37. Trump called soldiers “suckers” and “losers”, refusing to go to honor their ultimate sacrifice in WWII.
  38. His policies added nearly 8 trillion dollars to our national debt, the most by far of any president.
  39. Trump was impeached twice, the only president to be so distinguished.
  40. Also, the only president whose own party member voted for his impeachment conviction.
  41. Of all the presidents, he is the first to not sleep in the same bedroom as his wife.

(Thanks to Dan Kunz at the Coeur d’Alene/Post Falls Press for his article highlighting many of these inauspicious firsts.)

Be True Blue

It is imperative we vote blue – we need reelection for President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris; the alternative is unthinkable. Racism, sexism, and anti-Semitism are out of control in our nation. Once the orange haired monster got a taste of power, the floodgates of hate and insanity were opened wide, and it’s very difficult but not impossible to stop the storm. Should “The Donald” be elected for another term, things will be even worse than his first horrific term. Trump is out of control and we just need to send him a clear message that he will never enter the Oval Office (or any other part of the White House) again.

Hasn’t Got a Prayer

Franklin Graham (no stranger to scandal) is demanding we pray for Donald Trump, but he has no right demanding anything. This is the typical arrogant, lemming-like behavior of Trump’s supporters. I pray that the orange monster is convicted of the crimes that he committed and goes to prison. I pray our nation will be finally be rid of him, once and for all. Here are some ways to get involved and ride the blue wave:

  1. Offer to make election calls for Democrats.
  2. Donate what you can to the Democratic election efforts – if you can’t financially support campaigns, give of your time.
  3. Bumper stickers, yard signs, t-shirts, etc. – we can display these things for Democrats with far more dignity and class than MAGA’s in their red hats and gold metallic gym shoes.
  4. Offer your home for Democratic events such as meetings, watch parties, envelope stuffing, postcard writing, and so on.
  5. Don’t engage with MAGA’s – ignore the insanity they spew; it would be a battle of wits with an unarmed person. Let’s concentrate on a Democratic victory in November.
  6. Offer to transport people to the polls.
  7. Volunteer to register folks in your community to vote.
  8. Post on social media positive things that Democrats are doing, and the negative things Republicans are up to.
  9. VOTE!
  10. Do pray that President Biden and Vice President Harris are reelected, and the orange haired monster is convicted of his crimes.

We can do this, together and united we stand for democracy…

Resources: www.democrats.org, www.lincolnproject.us, www.facebook.com/p/Mary-L-Trump-100076207187060/, www.taylorswift.com.

 

No Worries. Are You Kidding Me?

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No Worries. Are You Kidding Me?

 

Worry is my middle name and I have good reason to be worried

No Worries. Are You Kidding Me?

By D. S. Mitchell

 

Closet Worrier

I never considered myself a worrier; however I have  probably always been a closet worrier. I was the one that would call twice to confirm a reservation and of course I made sure that we always took two of everything (just in case). Now that I’m an elder, and retired, I have found an abundant amount of time to worry and an endless supply of issues to worry about. I have thrown off my shackles and emerged into the light as an admitted worrier.

Growing Louder

What used to be occasional whispers in my busy working mind have grown louder now that I am free of the time clock. I worry about the mutating COVID virus, and do I need another booster? I worry that I forgot to rotate my tires at 5,000 miles. When did I last check the air pressure, I fret. Did I remember to send my forever best friend from high school a card on her birthday? Then there’s climate change, and the rising ocean levels, Russian aggression in the Ukraine, the rape and murder of Israelis on 10/7,  the death of 33,000 Palestinian civilians in Gaza. And we can’t forget the threat of nukes in space, the Chinese on Mars, the speeding up of the Jet Streams, an alien invasion, an AI takeover, nuclear war, and the possibility of an asteroid impact. And what about all those conspiracy theories; are they all wrong; or just partly wrong? Will we ever find Jimmy Hoffa’s bones?

Did You Hear?

Did you see that there was a massive die off of honeybees in the United States in 2023, killing over 51% of the honeybee hives. Furthermore, in case you missed it on the news, the biggest iceberg in history is now floating somewhere in the open ocean south of Australia. I have at my disposal an endless spool of worry; replaying events over-and-over in my head; each exchanging their places in turn, as I worry about each new threat.

I Love Joe

I have recently begun transferring all of these concerns to an off planet storage facility-I think its called the cloud. I want to have plenty of space in my head for election year worries. Don’t misunderstand; there isn’t a single day that goes by that Joe Biden doesn’t prove he’s a better man than Donald Trump ever thought of being. Not one day of Donald Trump’s life, has he ever thought of anyone but himself. As General John Kelly confirmed, Trump “is the most flawed person (I’ve) ever met.” Unfortunately, for the United States, Trump is once again being allowed to run for president; and with the Electoral College system he could easily win.

Not Long Ago

There was a time in the recent past when a candidate for the highest office in our land was not a criminal, a grifter, or wanna-be tyrant; that was of course before Donald Trump came on the scene. Since Trump’s  emergence as a right wing demagogue he has been setting law breaking records; amazing even those who know him best. I realize there are many in the electorate who may have forgotten the list of outrages this one man crime wave has committed. For those amnesic individuals I offer Seth Meyers.

Early to Bed, Ready to Worry

I go to bed early, so, sadly, I miss all the late night comedy shows. But, this is 21st century America and I have YouTube. A recent Seth Meyer’s monologue turned up the heat on my worr-ia-tor. Listen folks, a quick review of the recent past is reason enough to worry about what criminal tactics Trump will use to guarantee his winning the 2024 election. That’s right, folks, I truly believe Trump and his crime associates will try to once again overthrow an election. That would be two in a row. The loss of public morality is shocking and should be a worry for all of us who haven’t been drinking the Kool-Aid or who aren’t looking for a Mango Mussolini to worship.

Seth Meyers Made a List

After coming out on top as the presumptive Republican nominee for president Trump was eviscerated by Late Night host, Seth Meyers. In a near two minute opening monologue, Meyers reeled off a list of outrageous things Donald Trump has done, or has been accused of doing.  Here in Seth’s own words: “Presumptive GOP nominee for president, again, for a third time, despite the fact he is a twice-impeached, four-time criminally indicted and racist who’s been found liable for fraud and sexual abuse. Banned from doing business in the state of New York for three years. Owes over half a billion dollars in fines and judgments. Took millions from foreign governments while he was president. Tried to extort a foreign country to interfere in the 2016 election and encouraged another to help him win in 2020.”

No Stopping Him

Meyers, however, did not stop there. Trump “actively undermined our nation’s response to a once-in-a-lifetime pandemic and let a deadly disease spiral out of control. (He) is about to go on trial for breaking campaign finance laws by paying hush money to cover up an affair during the 2016 campaign. He orchestrated a months-long coup attempt that culminated in a violent insurrection to disrupt the peaceful transfer of power and install him as an unelected dictator. (Trump) stole classified documents and obstructed attempts to get them back. (The man) has never won the popular vote and has been routinely rejected by a majority of Americans in election after election.”

There’s More?

At this point you may think Meyers had covered it all, but that’s when he reminds us of many other bizarre Trump moments. Meyers called Trump “the single weirdest, most off-putting human being on the face of the f****** planet. Trump spews deranged conspiracy theories about everything from climate change to immigration, from vaccines to windmills. Stumbles on three syllable words, two-syllable words and one-syllable words, cheats at golf, calls our dead soldiers suckers and losers, forgets who he’s running against.” At this point, Seth brings up a screen in the studio displaying  examples of Trump’s spelling errors.  “(He) can’t spell his own name, his wife’s name (or even remember it), the words “indicted,” “education,” “unprecedented,” stolen,” “Denmark,” “Kentucky” or “tap,” all spelled wrong, and many more.

Gamer Vocabulary

Myer’s summed up Trump in the following manner, “I’m sorry, but this guy is not a real person, he’s a glitching, (stumbling) NPC from a video game,” Meyers declared. **For the non-gamers out there; Seth’s reference to “NPC” (“Non-Player Character”) is used by him as a metaphor to describe someone he perceives as lacking independent thought.

 

Its Disgusting and Shocking

I worry that any group of people that would support a criminal and insurrectionist as their presidential candidate are likely to break any and all laws to get him back into the White House. Perhaps even “terminate the Constitution.” Bad actors, like Iran, Russia, China, and North Korea are lining up to run misinformation campaigns against Biden and the Dems. Sounds like criminals and thugs sticking together. The fact that the Republican Party is willing to hand over power to a man of  such obvious low character as Donald Trump is both outrageous, and demoralizing. Make no mistake the GOP will be running a ‘dictator for life’ candidate not a presidential candidate.

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If you want to see the original Seth Meyers rant go to YouTube and put in Trump crimes-Seth Meyers on the search bar and you can watch Seth eviscerate Trump in a two minute rant. Everything he says is alarming and we should all be worried as hell.