I’m sending today’s newsletter to my son, nephew and their friends who live in Atlanta to urge them to call, write and otherwise let the legislature and governor know that they oppose the law that’s been passed allowing them to remove a prosecutor (because essentially they don’t want their cronies prosecuted for their misconduct. I urge others to do the same.
I am fortunate enough to be spending the week at the Chautauqua Institution where the chaplain for this week has been a rabbi. One of his messages this week was that the divisions in this country can be understood as the conflict between hope and fear. Thank you for consistently pushing us toward hope, without denying the pull of fear. In these difficult times, it is imperative that we see clearly AND appeal to our higher selves and turn toward a realistic and grounded hope. Thank you, always!
What a wonderful and concise comment from the Rabbi. We must turn toward "a realistic and grounded hope!" I feel that every day when reading this deep analysis of our current situation. Thank God for these reasonable and brilliant people who set us straight, and lead us back to hope!
My suggestion for how for anyone testifying to Jim Jordan's Kangaroo Kommittee should preface EACH answer given to the Kommittee:
I am under oath to tell the whole truth, while the Congressman who questioned me is not. I swear that I did not participate in the January 6 Insurrection, and that I did not telephone or meet with Donald Trump on January 5 or January 6. Anyone who participated in that insurrection is prohibited from holding public office under the 14th Amendment and 18 U.S.C. §2383 which reads as follows:
§2383. Rebellion or insurrection
Whoever incites, sets on foot, assists, or engages in any rebellion or insurrection against the authority of the United States or the laws thereof, or gives aid or comfort thereto, shall be fined under this title or imprisoned not more than ten years, or both; and shall be incapable of holding any office under the United States.
Since you participated in that Insurrection, as evidenced by your refusal to testify to a lawful committee of the House of Representatives who were investigating your participation in that insurrection, you lack authority to serve in Congress, and therefore you lack authority to question me.
Regarding the Trump mugshot: "His facial expression conveys equal parts menace, anger, and defiance. There is no hint of a soul behind the eyes, only animal grievance and feral resentment at being cornered." Surely, Trump prepared for the mugshot in order to avoid looking soft and fat, to avoid showing off his double chin, for instance. Add to the menace and anger and defiance, shame and embarrassment about what he actually looks like.
Yes! No matter how practiced the pose, it may be the most honest self portrayal we’ve seen of tfg. The depths of soulless depravity, fury and rage illuminate the pure evil of the man. I yearn for a trump free world.
The mugshot will appeal to his followers, but is likely to repel the independents whose votes we need. This is a media fight. It's not only about getting press coverage of policies and achievements.
Democrats ought to flood media with this photo of President Biden:
I hope you don't mind, but at FeathersofHope.net we won't be taking next week off. Being as it's the last week of the summer recess, we're planning a major escalation of our effort.
We'll be contacting as many House Members, party operatives and media representatives as we can, trying to make the removal and replacement of Speaker McCarthy the first order of business in September. The sooner that happens, the sooner all those appropriation bills will pass.
President Biden worked tirelessly to pass the Fiscal Responsibility Act. We owe him no less in pressuring the Republican House to uphold their end of the bargain. Everyone is urged to pitch in: https://FeathersOfHope.net
CNN reported, last night, that Trump and his advisors met and worked out what facial expression he’d present in the mug shot. Little was left to chance.
I noticed his hair had been freshly colored and trimmed just right to cover the bald spot on top and tame the orange. Narcissist to the last.. Here are some other descriptors of the photo, "childishly petulant" and "peevishly indignant."
According to CNN broadcast, many of the stats on Trump at his booking, such as his weight being 215 lb and his hight being 6’3”, were supplued by Trump people, not measured at the booking at the jail.
Here's the updated Democracy Labs relationship map of the Fulton County RICO Indictees as of midnight 8/24.
It includes jail records, inmate numbers, and mugshots using the publicly available data from the Fulton County Sheriff's Office. The map is interactive and you can search by those who have surrendered so far, indicted, type of charge and a lot more.
I normally write a blog daily about an issue currently in the news. I apply data visualization in the form of maps, infographics and follow-the-money charts to illustrate what's going on and relate it to political decisions and the importance of voting. Voting rights, protecting the environment, women's and student's rights are recurring themes.
I used to work in Silicon Valley but after Trump got elected, I started Democracy Labs as a nonprofit to (pro bono) apply innovative tech to social justice and voting rights causes.
There are over 1,200 blogs on the DemLabs website from over the last 6 years. There's also a free blog and perhaps some of your readers might want to subscribe. https://thedemlabs.org/
Brilliant letter today. Particularly grateful for your clarification of the process involved in removing Fani Willis. Commentators who don’t go into the weeds like you did give the false impression she could be removed on October 1st - a great disservice and distraction. So appreciate your detailed clarity!
On a lighter note, yesterday Jennifer Rubin wrote a "Biden goes positive..." article. She included this latest link, a Biden ad going into the 2024 election. I think it's pretty good.
I agree that this message is positive and that it will encourage those who feel that they are doing okay. It seems like a lot of Americans have sunk into a dark morass of despair and I don't know what will help them. The Sackler family should take a lot of the blame for the despair by their campaign to get people with mild pain addicted to their drugs, catapulting them into billionaire status. I am glad that their name is now tainted. Will it last? Who knows. I am in Germany right now and for one, the feeling towards Americans and the USA is much more positive, and we are recognized as doing well economically. Still, as we are looking for student accommodations in an expensive city, we will be paying nothing compared to paying for an American university. Here university is tuition free, and people come out without debt because those who cannot afford paying their living expenses can apply for government aid. Also, while the USA may be doing the most for the green economy, and climate change preparation, the lifestyle here is already more green. People are largely getting around on bikes, walking and public, generally wash and hang clothing instead of using dryers, and do not use as much heat in general and most don't have or need air conditioning. Buildings here are built differently and it cools down at night so far in all cities I have been in in Germany and Austria in the summer when it is hot. It makes a huge difference. So, they are probably ahead of where the USA is as a whole, but as Biden says, We will do even better.
In the richest nation to have ever existed, there is no rational reason why education from day care through to employment can't be paid for by society. There is no rational reason for healthcare to be so costly. There is no rational reason to incarcerate so many Americans.
The reason we have created all these expenses for the citizenry is greed. Because unregulated "capitalism" and "free enterprise" work better for the rich. And the rich buy our politicians.
The US is my beloved home. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else. But when it comes to education, healthcare and criminal justice...we are a feudal back water of corruption.
We have a President who is fighting for the opposite of corruption. He is our only hope. We must win the house in 2024, retain the White House, and expand the Senate. This is our work!
We are the most backwards of the major western industrialized nations. And that's because of Nixon, Reagan, Bush2, and Trump. And Alito, Clarence Thomas, and John Roberts, and the five justices who installed Bush2 despite Gore's likely victory.
I agree with you completely. In addition I have always felt that in our "wealthy" country there is no reason for anyone to go hungry or be homeless (unless that is their desire). I think most people want to take care of themselves. Some don't have the tools. Some have unfortunate events that create their circumstance.
Well, Bill, there is reason: half the discretionary budget goes to the military and armaments. Guns or butter? Police the world, or stick your nose in everyone else's
It's nice to hear you say that at least in Germany the feeling towards Americans is more positive these days. I've always thought our arrogance is our own worst enemy when it comes to interacting with others. Tuition fees here is astounding. In my day (the early seventies) it cost only $500 for my in-state university, an amount that was pretty easy to pay. I agree that Europe's lifestyle is much more conducive to being green than we are. I have dim memories of my one and only trip to Europe, but do remember how the cities encompassed a more people-friendly atmosphere where you could get by without the need for a car. Here in the states we adopted a car is king philosophy and built our cities accordingly. Anyway, at least we have Biden to steer us in a better direction!
WE are definitely behind in these areas. All we can do is win back the House, retain and expand our tiny lead in the Senate and maintain the Presidency. That must be our goal and hope!
That looks like a gifted link to me. Recently, WaPo has replaced (for some articles) the Gift button with a Share button. It appears to me to do the same thing.
All this assessment of the Georgia situation is really helpful. Thank you.
When I finished today's newsletter, I had one clear thought. I wish you were the campaign chair or chief strategist for the Democratic Party or perhaps, the campaign spokesperson for President Biden.
You know what matters and sort it beautifully. You can be angry, but always respectful. And you are a fact focused proponent of positive action. I deliberately take a break from my morning reading after "Today's Edition". I want your thoughts to settle in and take hold.
Thanks for your knowledge, wisdom and critical perspective. You are a unifying leader.
Your first paragraph describing the mugshot will stand out in my mind as one of the best descriptions I've ever read! What would we do without you, Mr. Hubbell!
When the cost of education is astronomical less people will be educated in this country and critical reasoning of the population as a whole will descend which will be an absolute danger to democratic values and democracy! The scary part of all the mugshots from Georgia is that these people all well educated should know better. The foundations of democracy crumble under the inability of people to search for the truth. Thanks Robert!
Are voters looking for a reason not to vote for Trump? Why, there are so many that even MAGA supporters will have trouble casting all of them aside. However, the overarching reason is that if nominated, he will lose. Joe Biden will win the Democratic nomination and be reelected for a second term. A Republican 2024 election ticket led by Donald Trump at the top will be overwhelmingly defeated in the 2024 General Election. Democrats will regain a majority in the House and expand their majority in the U.S. Senate. Trump will eventually be convicted at the state and federal level of numerous crimes and receive whatever sentences are deemed appropriate. And the Republican Party will be shattered and severely damaged. This will be the Trump legacy.
Oh, and one more footnote - all those Trump flags, red hats, and regalia will become sad mementos, and most will wind up in the trash.
Bruce, I agree with your scenario of what is most likely to happen next year, and liked reading it! But for the sake of argument, let's suppose the chances of a blue wave and convictions are only 50/50. I'm counting on that still being plenty of incentive for the majority of Americans who are appalled by DT's coup plotters to behave accordingly in Nov. 2024.
It's very helpful for me to now know that, since 2016, over 30 million people have reached voting age and over 10 million older Americans have passed away. (If I have those numbers wrong, folks, please correct me.)
In that 50/50 scenario, we can look at the Trumpistas and feel afraid, furious, depressed, nauseated, and/or hopeless. OR we can see multiple signs that they are failing, and becoming steadily more unpopular and desperate. On most days, I remind myself of the latter, feel hope that the crash of this neofascist movement is coming soon, and remain determined to play an active role in making it happen ASAP. Your summary of what that will probably look like in 2025 is exactly the kind of hopeful North Star I want us to hold onto every week.
Let's remember Gettysburg, Vicksburg, Stalingrad, Iwo Jima, and D-Day. It takes years to mobilize and defeat passionate forces of oppression. Historically , they look powerful and possibly unstoppable, until suddenly they're in the midst of retreat, falling morale, and lack of resources/recruits. Their bitter end comes pretty quickly thereafter. May the 2024 election be the coup de grace for Trumpism!!
“ It's very helpful for me to now know that, since 2016, over 30 million people have reached voting age and over 10 million older Americans have passed away.” –
As an octogenarian, I thank you for that kind sentiment! /S
I 100% agree with a Democratic landslide in 2024. About the Trump paraphernalia, more likely to end in the trash bin of history, added to the right wing collections of Civil War memorabilia waiting for the South to rise again..
I like your description of Trump's so-called "mugshot"( humph--that was no mugshot). It was a photo head shot with side-lighting for drama and a head lowering that perhaps dim Donnie thought would convey menacing toughness. I read a comment on Joyce Vance's Civil Discourse that said it seemed more like a signature Kubrick directorial shot to convey the peak of derangement (for reference, there was included several character photos from Kubrick movies exhibiting that exact posture--Jack Nicholson's photo in that posture from 'The Shining' was chilling!).
But you are quite accurate...what Trump's photo mostly showed was his "animal grievance and feral resentment at being cornered"...like the rabid rat he truly is. (with apologies to domestic pet rats).
I’m sending today’s newsletter to my son, nephew and their friends who live in Atlanta to urge them to call, write and otherwise let the legislature and governor know that they oppose the law that’s been passed allowing them to remove a prosecutor (because essentially they don’t want their cronies prosecuted for their misconduct. I urge others to do the same.
Contact the CIVICS CENTER and write postcards to high school and college kids. It is effective and can be done calmly at home
Aware of this and our organization writes for them, but residents of Georgia have to speak up and let them know they will hold them accountable b
Done and done
I am fortunate enough to be spending the week at the Chautauqua Institution where the chaplain for this week has been a rabbi. One of his messages this week was that the divisions in this country can be understood as the conflict between hope and fear. Thank you for consistently pushing us toward hope, without denying the pull of fear. In these difficult times, it is imperative that we see clearly AND appeal to our higher selves and turn toward a realistic and grounded hope. Thank you, always!
What a wonderful and concise comment from the Rabbi. We must turn toward "a realistic and grounded hope!" I feel that every day when reading this deep analysis of our current situation. Thank God for these reasonable and brilliant people who set us straight, and lead us back to hope!
My suggestion for how for anyone testifying to Jim Jordan's Kangaroo Kommittee should preface EACH answer given to the Kommittee:
I am under oath to tell the whole truth, while the Congressman who questioned me is not. I swear that I did not participate in the January 6 Insurrection, and that I did not telephone or meet with Donald Trump on January 5 or January 6. Anyone who participated in that insurrection is prohibited from holding public office under the 14th Amendment and 18 U.S.C. §2383 which reads as follows:
§2383. Rebellion or insurrection
Whoever incites, sets on foot, assists, or engages in any rebellion or insurrection against the authority of the United States or the laws thereof, or gives aid or comfort thereto, shall be fined under this title or imprisoned not more than ten years, or both; and shall be incapable of holding any office under the United States.
Since you participated in that Insurrection, as evidenced by your refusal to testify to a lawful committee of the House of Representatives who were investigating your participation in that insurrection, you lack authority to serve in Congress, and therefore you lack authority to question me.
Damn! I love this response for the Kangaroo Kommittee.
✅
Regarding the Trump mugshot: "His facial expression conveys equal parts menace, anger, and defiance. There is no hint of a soul behind the eyes, only animal grievance and feral resentment at being cornered." Surely, Trump prepared for the mugshot in order to avoid looking soft and fat, to avoid showing off his double chin, for instance. Add to the menace and anger and defiance, shame and embarrassment about what he actually looks like.
The mugshot finally reveals the psychopathic rage of a malignant narcissist scorned. The only things that are missing are the horns.
Yes! No matter how practiced the pose, it may be the most honest self portrayal we’ve seen of tfg. The depths of soulless depravity, fury and rage illuminate the pure evil of the man. I yearn for a trump free world.
I also see malevolence.
Good descriptor. I wish i had used it.
The mugshot will appeal to his followers, but is likely to repel the independents whose votes we need. This is a media fight. It's not only about getting press coverage of policies and achievements.
Democrats ought to flood media with this photo of President Biden:
https://jerryweiss.substack.com/p/joe-biden-knows-how-to-negotiate
.
Brilliant!
Thank you, Robert.
I hope you don't mind, but at FeathersofHope.net we won't be taking next week off. Being as it's the last week of the summer recess, we're planning a major escalation of our effort.
We'll be contacting as many House Members, party operatives and media representatives as we can, trying to make the removal and replacement of Speaker McCarthy the first order of business in September. The sooner that happens, the sooner all those appropriation bills will pass.
President Biden worked tirelessly to pass the Fiscal Responsibility Act. We owe him no less in pressuring the Republican House to uphold their end of the bargain. Everyone is urged to pitch in: https://FeathersOfHope.net
.
Beautiful photo of our president...thank you, Jerry!
covering up fear with menacing bravado.
I think that Trump doesn't so much look fearsome as look like someone who is trying to look fearsome.
With six words you completely captured the reality of the mug shot. He is terrified and furious.
CNN reported, last night, that Trump and his advisors met and worked out what facial expression he’d present in the mug shot. Little was left to chance.
I noticed his hair had been freshly colored and trimmed just right to cover the bald spot on top and tame the orange. Narcissist to the last.. Here are some other descriptors of the photo, "childishly petulant" and "peevishly indignant."
Trump wanted to be an actor in his youth. His parents sent him to military school instead.
As I recall from a biography, Trump was sent to military school because he was a basically uncontrollable son.
Oh boy, you are so right about that mug shot. He probably practiced it for hours. So sick.
Yes, excited for the big post-Labor Day push for November. Let the games begin!!
For my money, Sarah, he looks like one of the Droogies from Kubrick's A Clockwork Orange.
Agree, Sarah. The word that came to my mind was “silly.” He just looks so juvenile and silly.
Silly is right. How juvenile is right. Sooooo 5th grade!
“Who pooped in my sandbox-grrrrrr, I’ll get him!.
According to CNN broadcast, many of the stats on Trump at his booking, such as his weight being 215 lb and his hight being 6’3”, were supplued by Trump people, not measured at the booking at the jail.
Height; supplied.
Here's the updated Democracy Labs relationship map of the Fulton County RICO Indictees as of midnight 8/24.
It includes jail records, inmate numbers, and mugshots using the publicly available data from the Fulton County Sheriff's Office. The map is interactive and you can search by those who have surrendered so far, indicted, type of charge and a lot more.
We'll keep the map updated with new developments. Let me know of things that should be included in the map. Thanks. https://thedemlabs.org/2023/08/24/fulton-county-rico-indictees-mapped-with-jail-records-inmate-numbers-and-mugshots/
Hi, Deepak. Thanks for this resource. Keep me updated on DemLabs projects. would be happy to promote. and thanks for all you do!
Thanks, Robert. That would be wonderful!
I normally write a blog daily about an issue currently in the news. I apply data visualization in the form of maps, infographics and follow-the-money charts to illustrate what's going on and relate it to political decisions and the importance of voting. Voting rights, protecting the environment, women's and student's rights are recurring themes.
I used to work in Silicon Valley but after Trump got elected, I started Democracy Labs as a nonprofit to (pro bono) apply innovative tech to social justice and voting rights causes.
There are over 1,200 blogs on the DemLabs website from over the last 6 years. There's also a free blog and perhaps some of your readers might want to subscribe. https://thedemlabs.org/
Helpful - thanks!
Brilliant letter today. Particularly grateful for your clarification of the process involved in removing Fani Willis. Commentators who don’t go into the weeds like you did give the false impression she could be removed on October 1st - a great disservice and distraction. So appreciate your detailed clarity!
Thanks. I wanted to dispel some of the sense of inevitability that she will be removed. That is theoretically possible. But not a give by an means.
It sounds like Kemp is fed up given his recent announcements. I think she will be allowed to do her job.
On a lighter note, yesterday Jennifer Rubin wrote a "Biden goes positive..." article. She included this latest link, a Biden ad going into the 2024 election. I think it's pretty good.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TbRY7MA1brk
Here's her column: https://wapo.st/45BttGl (No gifted link found, sorry!)
I agree that this message is positive and that it will encourage those who feel that they are doing okay. It seems like a lot of Americans have sunk into a dark morass of despair and I don't know what will help them. The Sackler family should take a lot of the blame for the despair by their campaign to get people with mild pain addicted to their drugs, catapulting them into billionaire status. I am glad that their name is now tainted. Will it last? Who knows. I am in Germany right now and for one, the feeling towards Americans and the USA is much more positive, and we are recognized as doing well economically. Still, as we are looking for student accommodations in an expensive city, we will be paying nothing compared to paying for an American university. Here university is tuition free, and people come out without debt because those who cannot afford paying their living expenses can apply for government aid. Also, while the USA may be doing the most for the green economy, and climate change preparation, the lifestyle here is already more green. People are largely getting around on bikes, walking and public, generally wash and hang clothing instead of using dryers, and do not use as much heat in general and most don't have or need air conditioning. Buildings here are built differently and it cools down at night so far in all cities I have been in in Germany and Austria in the summer when it is hot. It makes a huge difference. So, they are probably ahead of where the USA is as a whole, but as Biden says, We will do even better.
In the richest nation to have ever existed, there is no rational reason why education from day care through to employment can't be paid for by society. There is no rational reason for healthcare to be so costly. There is no rational reason to incarcerate so many Americans.
The reason we have created all these expenses for the citizenry is greed. Because unregulated "capitalism" and "free enterprise" work better for the rich. And the rich buy our politicians.
The US is my beloved home. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else. But when it comes to education, healthcare and criminal justice...we are a feudal back water of corruption.
We have a President who is fighting for the opposite of corruption. He is our only hope. We must win the house in 2024, retain the White House, and expand the Senate. This is our work!
Yes. A Blue Victory is required!
We are the most backwards of the major western industrialized nations. And that's because of Nixon, Reagan, Bush2, and Trump. And Alito, Clarence Thomas, and John Roberts, and the five justices who installed Bush2 despite Gore's likely victory.
I agree with you completely. In addition I have always felt that in our "wealthy" country there is no reason for anyone to go hungry or be homeless (unless that is their desire). I think most people want to take care of themselves. Some don't have the tools. Some have unfortunate events that create their circumstance.
“ The reason we have created all these expenses for the citizenry is greed.” :
Another reason is that the US lacks a strong social ethic of *mutual* responsibility and looking after all citizens.
Well, Bill, there is reason: half the discretionary budget goes to the military and armaments. Guns or butter? Police the world, or stick your nose in everyone else's
business?
It's nice to hear you say that at least in Germany the feeling towards Americans is more positive these days. I've always thought our arrogance is our own worst enemy when it comes to interacting with others. Tuition fees here is astounding. In my day (the early seventies) it cost only $500 for my in-state university, an amount that was pretty easy to pay. I agree that Europe's lifestyle is much more conducive to being green than we are. I have dim memories of my one and only trip to Europe, but do remember how the cities encompassed a more people-friendly atmosphere where you could get by without the need for a car. Here in the states we adopted a car is king philosophy and built our cities accordingly. Anyway, at least we have Biden to steer us in a better direction!
WE are definitely behind in these areas. All we can do is win back the House, retain and expand our tiny lead in the Senate and maintain the Presidency. That must be our goal and hope!
Agreed!
Lynell, that new Biden ad is a masterpiece! I don't think I've ever seen such a great campaign ad!
Everyone! Watch it. It's very brief, and once you've seen it you'll know Biden's gonna win!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TbRY7MA1brk
And thanks for posting it, and Jennifer Rubin's column.
Sorry for the delay, David. I just now found you over in my SPAM folder. So frustrating! I'm glad you like the ad. I do, too!
That looks like a gifted link to me. Recently, WaPo has replaced (for some articles) the Gift button with a Share button. It appears to me to do the same thing.
It did to me, too. I'll have to check out the share button. Thanks, Judith.
Robert Hubbell,
All this assessment of the Georgia situation is really helpful. Thank you.
When I finished today's newsletter, I had one clear thought. I wish you were the campaign chair or chief strategist for the Democratic Party or perhaps, the campaign spokesperson for President Biden.
You know what matters and sort it beautifully. You can be angry, but always respectful. And you are a fact focused proponent of positive action. I deliberately take a break from my morning reading after "Today's Edition". I want your thoughts to settle in and take hold.
Thanks for your knowledge, wisdom and critical perspective. You are a unifying leader.
Mug shot pure unadulterated evil.
It’s obviously postured.
NYT features Trump news nearly everyday while ignoring all the good coming from the Biden administration.
Your first paragraph describing the mugshot will stand out in my mind as one of the best descriptions I've ever read! What would we do without you, Mr. Hubbell!
Encouraging & Impressive -
I attended a picnic of Democrats in a rural conservative NC county ( Avery ). I was VERY impressed with the young Democratic leaders.
The treasurer wrote me :
“ we just received a grant from “Contest Every Race.” They are training us on how to organize and mobilize!”
When the cost of education is astronomical less people will be educated in this country and critical reasoning of the population as a whole will descend which will be an absolute danger to democratic values and democracy! The scary part of all the mugshots from Georgia is that these people all well educated should know better. The foundations of democracy crumble under the inability of people to search for the truth. Thanks Robert!
Are voters looking for a reason not to vote for Trump? Why, there are so many that even MAGA supporters will have trouble casting all of them aside. However, the overarching reason is that if nominated, he will lose. Joe Biden will win the Democratic nomination and be reelected for a second term. A Republican 2024 election ticket led by Donald Trump at the top will be overwhelmingly defeated in the 2024 General Election. Democrats will regain a majority in the House and expand their majority in the U.S. Senate. Trump will eventually be convicted at the state and federal level of numerous crimes and receive whatever sentences are deemed appropriate. And the Republican Party will be shattered and severely damaged. This will be the Trump legacy.
Oh, and one more footnote - all those Trump flags, red hats, and regalia will become sad mementos, and most will wind up in the trash.
Bruce, I agree with your scenario of what is most likely to happen next year, and liked reading it! But for the sake of argument, let's suppose the chances of a blue wave and convictions are only 50/50. I'm counting on that still being plenty of incentive for the majority of Americans who are appalled by DT's coup plotters to behave accordingly in Nov. 2024.
It's very helpful for me to now know that, since 2016, over 30 million people have reached voting age and over 10 million older Americans have passed away. (If I have those numbers wrong, folks, please correct me.)
In that 50/50 scenario, we can look at the Trumpistas and feel afraid, furious, depressed, nauseated, and/or hopeless. OR we can see multiple signs that they are failing, and becoming steadily more unpopular and desperate. On most days, I remind myself of the latter, feel hope that the crash of this neofascist movement is coming soon, and remain determined to play an active role in making it happen ASAP. Your summary of what that will probably look like in 2025 is exactly the kind of hopeful North Star I want us to hold onto every week.
Let's remember Gettysburg, Vicksburg, Stalingrad, Iwo Jima, and D-Day. It takes years to mobilize and defeat passionate forces of oppression. Historically , they look powerful and possibly unstoppable, until suddenly they're in the midst of retreat, falling morale, and lack of resources/recruits. Their bitter end comes pretty quickly thereafter. May the 2024 election be the coup de grace for Trumpism!!
“ It's very helpful for me to now know that, since 2016, over 30 million people have reached voting age and over 10 million older Americans have passed away.” –
As an octogenarian, I thank you for that kind sentiment! /S
And I turn 73 next week, Michael. But, ... I place more value on American democracy surviving than I place on greater longevity of our generation. 🙂
Tyler Taylor,
Survival of American democracy and longevity of any generation are not mutually exclusive.
Moreover, people whose politics claims to value kindness should not be (statistically) selective about that kindness.
Bruce,
I 100% agree with a Democratic landslide in 2024. About the Trump paraphernalia, more likely to end in the trash bin of history, added to the right wing collections of Civil War memorabilia waiting for the South to rise again..
I like your description of Trump's so-called "mugshot"( humph--that was no mugshot). It was a photo head shot with side-lighting for drama and a head lowering that perhaps dim Donnie thought would convey menacing toughness. I read a comment on Joyce Vance's Civil Discourse that said it seemed more like a signature Kubrick directorial shot to convey the peak of derangement (for reference, there was included several character photos from Kubrick movies exhibiting that exact posture--Jack Nicholson's photo in that posture from 'The Shining' was chilling!).
But you are quite accurate...what Trump's photo mostly showed was his "animal grievance and feral resentment at being cornered"...like the rabid rat he truly is. (with apologies to domestic pet rats).
He uses so much mental and spiritual ‘energy’ hating.