Thank you, Robert, for once again highlighting The States Project Giving Circles. Virginia's state legislature election is coming up soon--November 7. Tonight (Oct. 3), MSNBC's Lawrence O'Donnell had Simon Rosenberg discussing its importance in preventing a Republican trifecta and setting a path for the country. "Tending to Democracy" is one of the Giving Circles supporting progressive Democratic candidates in Virginia:
Update from Virginia. We woke up this morning to the news that Youngkin has received over $4 million from billionaires in the last couple of days. And the typical R approach at individual campaign level emphasizes attack ads of Dems as being soft on crime. These attack ads do appear to be having some effect.
31st St. Swing Left, along with local and national sister organizations are continuing on vigorously. Our voter outreach is mainly robust level of canvassing, but collectively groups are utilizing all voter outreach modes intensely. Our campaign support is highly targeted, and we are particularly pleased with our Black radio component within it. We are so thankful for amazing support from Newsletter readers for our efforts as well. Our donation site: https://secure.actblue.com/donate/31ststvaleg23?refcode=News
Thank you for remembering and honoring the service of our active military and veterans. 🙏 Thank you also for mentioning and condemning Trump’s shameful remarks about their service.
I also find your reminders about a short list of McCarthy’s many transgressions helpful. I too am proud of Democrats continued demonstration of unity and commitment to the service of the American people. Would that more on the Republican side of the aisle were so committed.
I second your comment on the helpful nature of the short list of McCarthy's transgressions, which I also found very helpful, as well as the rest of your comment. In fact, today's Today's had so much useful info (States project!) that it's going to my email list of nearly 80.
Thank you, Sheila B., for sharing your family's experience from your husband as a disabled veteran. What a touching eulogy that gives us a glimpse inside the VA.
McHenry managed to prove once again that Harry Truman was right back in 1948 and a thousand times more right now, that "The only 'good Republicans' are pushing up daisies." I had heard that despite his history of being one of the right wing "trained seals" the Christian right raised up to go to congress and raise hell 20 years ago, that he had been considered "responsible" by Democrats. I even thought perhaps he'd be a good placeholder for them till next year when they lose their majority for the next 20 years. But I was wrong. There are no Republicans even remotely like the ones I used to be able to work with 45 years ago.
Robert's summary of today's Republican Party is one for the books:
"The 'Party of No' has entered a permanent Twilight Zone in which its sole reason for existence is opposition, its only unifying principle is grievance, and its lone tactic is chaos."
Your addition of a "Reader Comment of the Day" is a wonderful idea, Robert. To me, it brings us all closer together when we get to focus on one person's perspective. (Thanks to Sheila B for her story!)
I did want to ask about the chances of the House nominating Trump for Speaker.
The "reader comment of the day" was the suggestion of my new part-time staff person! I don't think Trump will win if he is nominated. He would throw the House into chaos (even more than now). And I think it is one of the few things that could hurt his chances to get the GOP nomination. He would need to take positions on everything from the defense budget to abortion to farm subsidies to VA care. He is a professional shadow boxer, avoiding any real positions on anything.
“Rule 26—Temporary Step Aside of a Member of Leadership who is Indicted
(a) A member of the Republican Leadership shall step aside if indicted for a felony for which a sentence of two or more years imprisonment may be imposed.
(b) If a member of the Republican Elected Leadership is indicted, the Republican Conference shall meet and elect a Member to temporarily serve in that position.
(c) If a member of the Republican Leadership resigns pursuant to this rule, and subsequently during that Congress is acquitted or the charges are dismissed or reduced to less than a felony as described in paragraph (a), such Member shall resume the position from which they resigned, unless the Republican Conference decides otherwise within 10 legislative days.
Consider Democratic leadership. First, former Speaker Nancy Pelosi. She kept a slim majority together and got legislation passed; something the Republicans could not do. It is possible that McHenry's eviction order is a sop to the right wing extremists who hate her. Second, Hakeem Jeffries. So far, he has kept the Democratic caucus together. If he can sustain that, the minority will continue to exercise more power than is the ordinary expectation for the minority in the House.
I’m in England and had dinner with an old friend who has been living in the UK for 30 years. He asked two questions. Will the craziness ever end and when and will all of the shenanigans ever catch up with the Republicans. Two questions I do t have answers for and wish I did. Hopefully many people and thinking the same thing
In response to your readers regarding young folks in the military: I have had the privilege as a photojournalist, being "embedded" aboard at least 3 different LHD's (smaller aircraft carriers with amphibious capabilities). The sailors and Marines aboard every ship I've been on are some of the most focused, determined, clear headed, responsible young people one could ever meet. Ages 18 to 20's. They are insightful and aware. A Navy Admiral and Marine General outlined how the military is using the BUBBLE UP concept: where senior officers actively engage to listening and getting advice from these young focused men and women. And acting on their suggestions.
Point two: We can go on and on with the nuances of Kevin McCarthy and the rest of the Republican circus. I can only say, the Thuggery exhibited by these "elected officials" is so clear, one might think one was reading about legislators in countries where graft, corruption, murder, blatant lying, self-enrichment, disregard for the citizens and more is common place. But no, it's right here.
I applaud Sheila B's comments that you quoted. But, regrettably, I think Trump is a sociopath incapable of felling empathy for anyone. How else to square his over-the-top avoidance of wounded veterans in parades or even photo ops, his dismissive comments about John McCain or Gen. Milley and Anthony Fauci, and his random callous statements denigrating others like they don't count or their own dignity. His self-centeredness is, IMHO, his #1 disqualifying character defect to ever be given command of our nation's armed forces again!
I haven’t seen enough written about how tailored Judge Engoron “gag” order is. Arguably, he is taking a different approach from Judge Chutkin to Trump‘s outrageous speech. Rather than issue progressive warnings, he slammed Trump with a minimally invasive but targeted order, but his next step for a violation will be an appropriate punishment, not another warning. Given that he issued his order during the trial, in the heat of battle , so to speak, I think it was incredibly measured.
Good observation. It is tough to do the right thing during the heat of trial, but Judge Engoron managed to get it right. I hope that Judge Engoron continues to lead by example.
Thank you, Robert, for once again highlighting The States Project Giving Circles. Virginia's state legislature election is coming up soon--November 7. Tonight (Oct. 3), MSNBC's Lawrence O'Donnell had Simon Rosenberg discussing its importance in preventing a Republican trifecta and setting a path for the country. "Tending to Democracy" is one of the Giving Circles supporting progressive Democratic candidates in Virginia:
https://www.grapevine.org/giving-circle/1XQhnyD/Tending-To-Democracy
Thanks ,Ellie. Pinning this note to the top!
I gave to them again today. After giving to the efforts in Virginia yesterday.
Update from Virginia. We woke up this morning to the news that Youngkin has received over $4 million from billionaires in the last couple of days. And the typical R approach at individual campaign level emphasizes attack ads of Dems as being soft on crime. These attack ads do appear to be having some effect.
On our side, I do heartily support the effort of The States Project. They are highly informed, competent and strategic. Go great that Newsletter readers are supporting them and reiterating their website. https://statesproject.org/get-involved/giving-circles/?utm_source=substack&utm_medium=email
31st St. Swing Left, along with local and national sister organizations are continuing on vigorously. Our voter outreach is mainly robust level of canvassing, but collectively groups are utilizing all voter outreach modes intensely. Our campaign support is highly targeted, and we are particularly pleased with our Black radio component within it. We are so thankful for amazing support from Newsletter readers for our efforts as well. Our donation site: https://secure.actblue.com/donate/31ststvaleg23?refcode=News
pinning to the top so other readers can see the important work that 31st Street Swing left in Virginia.
Thank you for remembering and honoring the service of our active military and veterans. 🙏 Thank you also for mentioning and condemning Trump’s shameful remarks about their service.
I also find your reminders about a short list of McCarthy’s many transgressions helpful. I too am proud of Democrats continued demonstration of unity and commitment to the service of the American people. Would that more on the Republican side of the aisle were so committed.
What Robert did not mention is that those were McCarthy’s good points.
You win the Comments section today! LOL!
I second your comment on the helpful nature of the short list of McCarthy's transgressions, which I also found very helpful, as well as the rest of your comment. In fact, today's Today's had so much useful info (States project!) that it's going to my email list of nearly 80.
Thank you, Sheila B., for sharing your family's experience from your husband as a disabled veteran. What a touching eulogy that gives us a glimpse inside the VA.
❤️😍. Sheila is so caring, determined and eloquent.
💙
McHenry managed to prove once again that Harry Truman was right back in 1948 and a thousand times more right now, that "The only 'good Republicans' are pushing up daisies." I had heard that despite his history of being one of the right wing "trained seals" the Christian right raised up to go to congress and raise hell 20 years ago, that he had been considered "responsible" by Democrats. I even thought perhaps he'd be a good placeholder for them till next year when they lose their majority for the next 20 years. But I was wrong. There are no Republicans even remotely like the ones I used to be able to work with 45 years ago.
The first thing the man did yesterday was kick a woman. Tells me everything I need to know about him.
Robert's summary of today's Republican Party is one for the books:
"The 'Party of No' has entered a permanent Twilight Zone in which its sole reason for existence is opposition, its only unifying principle is grievance, and its lone tactic is chaos."
Your addition of a "Reader Comment of the Day" is a wonderful idea, Robert. To me, it brings us all closer together when we get to focus on one person's perspective. (Thanks to Sheila B for her story!)
I did want to ask about the chances of the House nominating Trump for Speaker.
The "reader comment of the day" was the suggestion of my new part-time staff person! I don't think Trump will win if he is nominated. He would throw the House into chaos (even more than now). And I think it is one of the few things that could hurt his chances to get the GOP nomination. He would need to take positions on everything from the defense budget to abortion to farm subsidies to VA care. He is a professional shadow boxer, avoiding any real positions on anything.
Rule 26 may save us:
“Rule 26—Temporary Step Aside of a Member of Leadership who is Indicted
(a) A member of the Republican Leadership shall step aside if indicted for a felony for which a sentence of two or more years imprisonment may be imposed.
(b) If a member of the Republican Elected Leadership is indicted, the Republican Conference shall meet and elect a Member to temporarily serve in that position.
(c) If a member of the Republican Leadership resigns pursuant to this rule, and subsequently during that Congress is acquitted or the charges are dismissed or reduced to less than a felony as described in paragraph (a), such Member shall resume the position from which they resigned, unless the Republican Conference decides otherwise within 10 legislative days.
https://www.gop.gov/conference-rules-of-the-118th-congress/
Thank you, Cliff. I just asked what the chances were that Trump would be elected Speaker. Hope this Rule 26 does save us.
Sadly, if the Republicans have the votes to elect Trump speaker, it means they have the votes to change the rules.
Now I am worried Gezzer and his inmates planned to do just that all along-get rid of McCarthy then put the orange idiot in.
At that time, other than changing the rules, would they be able to pardon the orange idiot of all charges? OMG
No, they can't pardon Trump. Shutting down the government wouldn't work either, because the DOJ prosecutors are essential workers.
🤯 Oooooyyyyy!
Consider Democratic leadership. First, former Speaker Nancy Pelosi. She kept a slim majority together and got legislation passed; something the Republicans could not do. It is possible that McHenry's eviction order is a sop to the right wing extremists who hate her. Second, Hakeem Jeffries. So far, he has kept the Democratic caucus together. If he can sustain that, the minority will continue to exercise more power than is the ordinary expectation for the minority in the House.
I sure hope you're right!
I appreciate your list of seven bullet points describing some of McCarthy’s vile and disgusting lies and actions.
After slimming his way to Chair the House, giving away power and comprising his ability to lead with integrity, he was embarrassingly pathetic.
I almost felt sorry for him at the end, but remembering his hideous sickening record, I am relieved to see him go
I’m in England and had dinner with an old friend who has been living in the UK for 30 years. He asked two questions. Will the craziness ever end and when and will all of the shenanigans ever catch up with the Republicans. Two questions I do t have answers for and wish I did. Hopefully many people and thinking the same thing
I have a photo I had mounted of a Cafe in London with a sign in front (the chalk type with specials of the day).
It says-All Americans Must be Accompanied by an Adult
Perfect
I'm laughing loudly!
It would be funny, Ido, if it wasn't so true!
The same could be said about the UK. Brexit is going SO well for them.
In response to your readers regarding young folks in the military: I have had the privilege as a photojournalist, being "embedded" aboard at least 3 different LHD's (smaller aircraft carriers with amphibious capabilities). The sailors and Marines aboard every ship I've been on are some of the most focused, determined, clear headed, responsible young people one could ever meet. Ages 18 to 20's. They are insightful and aware. A Navy Admiral and Marine General outlined how the military is using the BUBBLE UP concept: where senior officers actively engage to listening and getting advice from these young focused men and women. And acting on their suggestions.
Point two: We can go on and on with the nuances of Kevin McCarthy and the rest of the Republican circus. I can only say, the Thuggery exhibited by these "elected officials" is so clear, one might think one was reading about legislators in countries where graft, corruption, murder, blatant lying, self-enrichment, disregard for the citizens and more is common place. But no, it's right here.
Robert, there is only one thing I have to say...I agree with everything you expressed in this newsletter!
I applaud Sheila B's comments that you quoted. But, regrettably, I think Trump is a sociopath incapable of felling empathy for anyone. How else to square his over-the-top avoidance of wounded veterans in parades or even photo ops, his dismissive comments about John McCain or Gen. Milley and Anthony Fauci, and his random callous statements denigrating others like they don't count or their own dignity. His self-centeredness is, IMHO, his #1 disqualifying character defect to ever be given command of our nation's armed forces again!
“Let them wallow in their pig sty of incompetence.” -- Pramila Jayapal on GOP chaos
I haven’t seen enough written about how tailored Judge Engoron “gag” order is. Arguably, he is taking a different approach from Judge Chutkin to Trump‘s outrageous speech. Rather than issue progressive warnings, he slammed Trump with a minimally invasive but targeted order, but his next step for a violation will be an appropriate punishment, not another warning. Given that he issued his order during the trial, in the heat of battle , so to speak, I think it was incredibly measured.
Good observation. It is tough to do the right thing during the heat of trial, but Judge Engoron managed to get it right. I hope that Judge Engoron continues to lead by example.
I agree. Incredibly measured. Especially since tfg wrote and posted that WHILE HE WAS SITTING IN COURT, sitting right in front of the judge!