As I've said before, I have the utmost confidence in Jack Smith's abilities, and will put him up against Cannon every day of the week. As for our view of the process from the outside.... we're better off fighting the devil we know, so let's put our heads down and charge ahead. It's a marathon, not a sprint. Trump will get the worst of it, I have no doubt.
Jun 13, 2023·edited Jun 13, 2023Liked by Robert B. Hubbell
When I saw the title of tonight's newsletter was "Cannon redux," I immediately thought "Cannon reflux." I think many of us have reached the point where the mention of her name induces an instant "mental gag reflex."
However, I appreciate that you have continued to try and calm down those who are so worried about her effect on the upcoming proceedings in her courtroom. She has certainly done nothing to instill in the public any sense of confidence in her respect for the rule of law.
I have to add that when two aggressive lawyers who were previously disgustingly, obsequious Trump Toadies, like his former Attorney General and his former debate coach from New Jersey, are now clearly stating on TV what major trouble the former president is facing in his upcoming criminal trial, the public conversation is starting to turn towards the truth. I give them no credit for their "about face," except to interpret it as their perceptions as political animals that it's time to get on the right side of history for their own selfish motives. Works for me.
Thank you for all of your diligent efforts to research and write this newsletter. And thank you for the photo of the encoded message to President Lincoln in the book you and Jill saw at the Huntington Library. Imagine the emotional vibrations that surrounded that message, both from the writer and the recipient during that challenging and frightening time in our past. It's exciting to look at such an old and amazing piece of American history--even on my computer--that you were probably close enough to touch.
Jun 13, 2023·edited Jun 13, 2023Liked by Robert B. Hubbell
Thanks for continuing to recalibrate our expectations, Robert. As others have expressed, I have complete confidence in Jack Smith's ability to navigate these gator-infested waters.
Also as others have said, Joyce Vance's piece today is helpful to understanding the reality, but she seems to be advocating a showdown with Judge Cannon. After reading Joyce's piece, I came away with a realization that trying cases around classified documents is very difficult, because the evidence itself may not be viewable by the defendant, his attorneys, the judge, or the jury. While I suspected that CDs would be challenging, and that some of the most consequential might not have been part of the indictment due to their sensitivity, I didn't (and admittedly still don't) fully understand the complexities of a trial like this.
As I commented yesterday, the charges are the tip of an iceberg. I believe Jack Smith has picked the best charges to pursue in light of the CD challenges, and will prevail for the American people. It will take time, for sure, but I think TFG faces a reckoning of Titanic proportions between this and other cases.
Our focus should not be on the spectacle that this or other cases will be, but on making sure TFG only returns to DC to visit a courtroom. Beyond the primaries, where he will likely be bashed by a few emboldened former "echo"lytes and "sicko"phants, we need to make sure we return President Biden to the White House and return Congress to the adults, so that Republicans won't be in a position to pardon TFG or retaliate against justice.
Thank you for giving up some of your precious time with your wife to write this edition! I for one am not worried about Cannon, based on what you and others have already observed and written about. Joyce Vance had an excellent article explaining the situation. Hope your wife enjoyed her birthday as much as it sounds like you did.
Continue to be grateful for you and Jill and hope you had a lovely evening!
I wish the MSM would use your accurate phrase consistently to emphasize that this is NOT about taking the documents in the first place, as Pence and Biden also did. As I understand it, taking the documents is not the charge but rather this (your phrase) is: “unlawfully retained defense secrets after a demand for their return.”
Happy Birthday to your Managing Editor! She shares my anniversary to my husband...47 years! What did we do today? Ordered food from DoorDash!
I agree with you about Cannon. She cannot be reckless in this case against Trump because Smith has all of the evidence. Now, if she wants to be a complete ass and try to pull another stunt, I feel strongly that the 11th Court will admonish her and replace her. I think people fear as to what she might do, like delay things for Trump. Well, STEP 1: Trump gets fingerprinted and gives a mugshot. STEP 2: He pleads not guilty. Then he’s released on his own recognizance to where he won’t be able to keep his mouth shut. I plan on watching MSNBC at 2pm PST. The truth shall prevail.
Life is indeed full of a level of stress, anxiety, and uncertainly that I have never experienced or seen before. It is coming from all angles and yet it serves to truly show me just how little of which I have control. I keep photos of my great-great grandparents on my bookshelf to remind me why I am here and to strive to live up to all they sacrificed, willingly or not.
Hence, I find myself meditating, focusing on the present, prioritizing the personal and family relationships. My efforts are also on being steadfast in my support of democracy and those who fight along side all of us. Please, let’s not all abandon hope! Let’s map our way forward.
For those who share faith traditions, pray or chant, light a candle, or however you may engage in your faith. When my mom was alive she prayed daily for ‘those in power’ to have ever evolving wisdom and compassion. I am going with this too now...along with supporting where I am able to financially.
Thanks Robert for the consistent astute assessments and call for persistence and rational thought.
Jun 13, 2023·edited Jun 13, 2023Liked by Robert B. Hubbell
Something I think is getting lost with the spotlight on TFG, Judge Cannon, and Jack Smith, is the ongoing self-debasement of Republican leadership. Most notably, the clearly nominal Speaker of the House, Kevin McCarthy, continues to double down on his premature claim that TFG is being treated unfairly. Shamefully, the media keeps giving him oxygen. How about Democrats in Congress move to censure him for abrogating his oath to support and defend the Constitution by interfering with DOJ's pursuit of justice and its protection of national security. That would certainly get some attention.
Back when I first heard the name Judge Cannon and read what she did, I entered a complaint to the 11th district. They were forced to mail me a form letter in response. At the time I thought “good, I bothered them.” I hoped they had received much feedback like mine. Do you think I did the right thing? Jessica Craven inspires me to let my opinions be heard, but I wonder.
Great message, Robert, especially the exhibit at the Huntington, one of the two libraries that inspired me to become an archivist/librarian. For readers who are still nervous about Cannon and the federal case against Trump, please see this morning’s blogs by Joyce Vance (“Civil Discourse”) and Heather Cox r
As others have said, "I trust Jack Smith". His experience and reputation give me confidence that he knew exactly what he was doing when he set up shop in Florida. I suspect that having Cannon on the bench was well within his playbook. Let's not try to out-think someone who has a record of successfully convicting people for war crimes.
Let's remember what I think was a central message of Robert's letter yesterday. There is this trial for Trump. And there will be other trials for Trump. Think of trains all running on different tracks at different speeds - all headed to Justice Town.
But there is another track that is more important - and that train needs all the fuel we can find. The Train to a 2024 Trifecta - a Blue Wave that repudiates a GOP gone mad, gone rogue on democracy. A GOP that is a lie factory. A GOP that weaves religious nonsense with hate to produce really ugly apparel.
And, although we have no idea how the "Mar A Lago Documents" trial will proceed or be resolved, along the way, there will be the constant drum beat of "Trump endangered our national security". Translated: "Trump has risked the lives of our military personnel. Our soldiers, sailors and marines." How do we think that will play with the millions of Veterans who may have voted for him in the past? How will that play with the wife, husband, dad, mother, brother, sister, or child of a service member? A wise politician doesn't mess with the military and their families.
I also see an ad that starts with bone spurs and ends with "45" tossing Putin a soccer ball. I see an ad with "45" telling his Chief of Staff as they are walking through a military cemetery: "What were these guys thinking? They were suckers."
It's possible that Trump's treason will resonate with all manner of folks when faced with the horror of his deeds. It won't change the minds of true MAGA maniacs. They can rationalize their derangement easily. But the future of our elections lies in the hands of the biggest block of voters. Independents. Patriotism may be our greatest ally in this battle royal.
Read two paragraphs of Robert’s post and stopped today. Here’s the deal. It is what it is. Robert’s point was and surely remains “we have to win at the ballot box, we won’t solve a political problem with in court.
As I've said before, I have the utmost confidence in Jack Smith's abilities, and will put him up against Cannon every day of the week. As for our view of the process from the outside.... we're better off fighting the devil we know, so let's put our heads down and charge ahead. It's a marathon, not a sprint. Trump will get the worst of it, I have no doubt.
When I saw the title of tonight's newsletter was "Cannon redux," I immediately thought "Cannon reflux." I think many of us have reached the point where the mention of her name induces an instant "mental gag reflex."
However, I appreciate that you have continued to try and calm down those who are so worried about her effect on the upcoming proceedings in her courtroom. She has certainly done nothing to instill in the public any sense of confidence in her respect for the rule of law.
I have to add that when two aggressive lawyers who were previously disgustingly, obsequious Trump Toadies, like his former Attorney General and his former debate coach from New Jersey, are now clearly stating on TV what major trouble the former president is facing in his upcoming criminal trial, the public conversation is starting to turn towards the truth. I give them no credit for their "about face," except to interpret it as their perceptions as political animals that it's time to get on the right side of history for their own selfish motives. Works for me.
Thank you for all of your diligent efforts to research and write this newsletter. And thank you for the photo of the encoded message to President Lincoln in the book you and Jill saw at the Huntington Library. Imagine the emotional vibrations that surrounded that message, both from the writer and the recipient during that challenging and frightening time in our past. It's exciting to look at such an old and amazing piece of American history--even on my computer--that you were probably close enough to touch.
Thanks for continuing to recalibrate our expectations, Robert. As others have expressed, I have complete confidence in Jack Smith's ability to navigate these gator-infested waters.
Also as others have said, Joyce Vance's piece today is helpful to understanding the reality, but she seems to be advocating a showdown with Judge Cannon. After reading Joyce's piece, I came away with a realization that trying cases around classified documents is very difficult, because the evidence itself may not be viewable by the defendant, his attorneys, the judge, or the jury. While I suspected that CDs would be challenging, and that some of the most consequential might not have been part of the indictment due to their sensitivity, I didn't (and admittedly still don't) fully understand the complexities of a trial like this.
As I commented yesterday, the charges are the tip of an iceberg. I believe Jack Smith has picked the best charges to pursue in light of the CD challenges, and will prevail for the American people. It will take time, for sure, but I think TFG faces a reckoning of Titanic proportions between this and other cases.
Our focus should not be on the spectacle that this or other cases will be, but on making sure TFG only returns to DC to visit a courtroom. Beyond the primaries, where he will likely be bashed by a few emboldened former "echo"lytes and "sicko"phants, we need to make sure we return President Biden to the White House and return Congress to the adults, so that Republicans won't be in a position to pardon TFG or retaliate against justice.
Thank you for giving up some of your precious time with your wife to write this edition! I for one am not worried about Cannon, based on what you and others have already observed and written about. Joyce Vance had an excellent article explaining the situation. Hope your wife enjoyed her birthday as much as it sounds like you did.
Continue to be grateful for you and Jill and hope you had a lovely evening!
I wish the MSM would use your accurate phrase consistently to emphasize that this is NOT about taking the documents in the first place, as Pence and Biden also did. As I understand it, taking the documents is not the charge but rather this (your phrase) is: “unlawfully retained defense secrets after a demand for their return.”
Happy Birthday to your Managing Editor! She shares my anniversary to my husband...47 years! What did we do today? Ordered food from DoorDash!
I agree with you about Cannon. She cannot be reckless in this case against Trump because Smith has all of the evidence. Now, if she wants to be a complete ass and try to pull another stunt, I feel strongly that the 11th Court will admonish her and replace her. I think people fear as to what she might do, like delay things for Trump. Well, STEP 1: Trump gets fingerprinted and gives a mugshot. STEP 2: He pleads not guilty. Then he’s released on his own recognizance to where he won’t be able to keep his mouth shut. I plan on watching MSNBC at 2pm PST. The truth shall prevail.
Life is indeed full of a level of stress, anxiety, and uncertainly that I have never experienced or seen before. It is coming from all angles and yet it serves to truly show me just how little of which I have control. I keep photos of my great-great grandparents on my bookshelf to remind me why I am here and to strive to live up to all they sacrificed, willingly or not.
Hence, I find myself meditating, focusing on the present, prioritizing the personal and family relationships. My efforts are also on being steadfast in my support of democracy and those who fight along side all of us. Please, let’s not all abandon hope! Let’s map our way forward.
For those who share faith traditions, pray or chant, light a candle, or however you may engage in your faith. When my mom was alive she prayed daily for ‘those in power’ to have ever evolving wisdom and compassion. I am going with this too now...along with supporting where I am able to financially.
Thanks Robert for the consistent astute assessments and call for persistence and rational thought.
I think it might be interesting to know what other decisions Judge Cannon has made from the bench beside the first Trump ones.
Something I think is getting lost with the spotlight on TFG, Judge Cannon, and Jack Smith, is the ongoing self-debasement of Republican leadership. Most notably, the clearly nominal Speaker of the House, Kevin McCarthy, continues to double down on his premature claim that TFG is being treated unfairly. Shamefully, the media keeps giving him oxygen. How about Democrats in Congress move to censure him for abrogating his oath to support and defend the Constitution by interfering with DOJ's pursuit of justice and its protection of national security. That would certainly get some attention.
Back when I first heard the name Judge Cannon and read what she did, I entered a complaint to the 11th district. They were forced to mail me a form letter in response. At the time I thought “good, I bothered them.” I hoped they had received much feedback like mine. Do you think I did the right thing? Jessica Craven inspires me to let my opinions be heard, but I wonder.
Great message, Robert, especially the exhibit at the Huntington, one of the two libraries that inspired me to become an archivist/librarian. For readers who are still nervous about Cannon and the federal case against Trump, please see this morning’s blogs by Joyce Vance (“Civil Discourse”) and Heather Cox r
Well...I may be slow, but the US legal system has slipped from neutral to reverse, and needs new tires.
Happy Birthday,Jill- keep the light shining!
As others have said, "I trust Jack Smith". His experience and reputation give me confidence that he knew exactly what he was doing when he set up shop in Florida. I suspect that having Cannon on the bench was well within his playbook. Let's not try to out-think someone who has a record of successfully convicting people for war crimes.
Let's remember what I think was a central message of Robert's letter yesterday. There is this trial for Trump. And there will be other trials for Trump. Think of trains all running on different tracks at different speeds - all headed to Justice Town.
But there is another track that is more important - and that train needs all the fuel we can find. The Train to a 2024 Trifecta - a Blue Wave that repudiates a GOP gone mad, gone rogue on democracy. A GOP that is a lie factory. A GOP that weaves religious nonsense with hate to produce really ugly apparel.
And, although we have no idea how the "Mar A Lago Documents" trial will proceed or be resolved, along the way, there will be the constant drum beat of "Trump endangered our national security". Translated: "Trump has risked the lives of our military personnel. Our soldiers, sailors and marines." How do we think that will play with the millions of Veterans who may have voted for him in the past? How will that play with the wife, husband, dad, mother, brother, sister, or child of a service member? A wise politician doesn't mess with the military and their families.
I also see an ad that starts with bone spurs and ends with "45" tossing Putin a soccer ball. I see an ad with "45" telling his Chief of Staff as they are walking through a military cemetery: "What were these guys thinking? They were suckers."
It's possible that Trump's treason will resonate with all manner of folks when faced with the horror of his deeds. It won't change the minds of true MAGA maniacs. They can rationalize their derangement easily. But the future of our elections lies in the hands of the biggest block of voters. Independents. Patriotism may be our greatest ally in this battle royal.
Read two paragraphs of Robert’s post and stopped today. Here’s the deal. It is what it is. Robert’s point was and surely remains “we have to win at the ballot box, we won’t solve a political problem with in court.
Get out the vote (GOTV!!!). Vote in 2023 & 2024.
Thanks for reminding us to stay calm and focused in extraordinary times. And Happy Birthday to the Editor in Chief!