I live in Florida and yes while it is disheartening, discouraging and downright infuriating at times, we are not going into hiding. The Friday Action group ( fridayaction.org) just sent 12,000 ( not a typo!) to voters in Jacksonville, the largest city in the state where a very solid progressive is running for mayor - vote is May 16th. There are indeed things we can do and are doing.
I want to tell everyone about my group MarkersForDemocracy.org and our sister groups Downtown Nasty Women Social Group and Team Min and invite you to join us on Zoom.
Since March 2020, we have been meeting together on Zoom which has allowed us to be joined regularly by postcard writers and speakers from all over the country. We’ve hosted over 500 senate, congressional and state and local candidates, grassroots leaders, authors and other speakers since then. We’ve hosted Senators Jon Ossoff and Raphael Warnock, Representatives Katie Porter, Jamie Raskin, Lauren Underwood, Maxwell Frost, leaders of organizations including The Civics Center, Mi Vecino, Flip the Vote, Wisconsin Democratic Party Chair Ben Wikler, Former Ohio Democratic Party Chair and author David Pepper, Robert Hubbell, Bill McKibben and Dahlia Lithwick
Since 2017 we've collectively written hundreds of thousands of postcards for races up and down the ballot. We've also phone banked, textbanked, cure called, registered voters, canvassed, protested, amplified on social media, and called and written to our local, state, and federal representatives.
All the groups have formed giving circles through the States Project which works to elect Democrats to state legislatures around the country to shift the balance of power. Over several years we have raised over $1.5 million in 7 states. Last year we supported Democrats in Arizona, Michigan, Nevada, and Pennsylvania and celebrated when the Michigan House and Senate flipped, the Pennsylvania House flipped from red to blue, Democrats expanded their majorities in the Nevada state legislature, and held ground in Arizona.
Our giving circles are now raising early money for Michigan for 2024 and for Virginia for 2023 where we hope to help Democrats flip the House of Delegates back to blue and strengthen the majority in the Senate to counter the harmful policies of Republican Governor Glenn Youngkin.
If you are not already getting our newsletters and would like to learn more about attending our Zooms we hope you will consider signing up and joining us. Sign up here:
Let’s all give DeSantis yet another reason to go apoplectic ! Donna Deegan is running against the DeSantis-backed candidate for mayor of Florida’s largest city, Jacksonville. There are virtual opportunies. Early voting has started and Election Day is May16th. Thank you in advance!💙
“Perhaps Biden can convince CNN to televise a town hall in Delaware with an audience of progressive Democrats.”
Ok but let’s all take action now regarding CNN and tfg’s upcoming town hall in New Hampshire. Stop it in its tracks before it even begins. Here’s how (and why):
Call Saint Anselm College!
Saint Anselm College’s hosting any event for tfg is contrary to their Mission Statement part of which states “providing all its students…... a learning community that encourages the lifelong pursuit of the truth and fosters intellectual, moral and spiritual growth …”
Saint Anselms College president:
“Guided by our Catholic, Benedictine liberal arts mission…”
Call the college’s President, Joseph A. Favazza, Ph.D. and express dissatisfaction the College is allowing an event to be held on it’s campus for someone that constantly lies, has no morals, much less pursues any spiritual growth. Hosting this event is contrary to the Colleges’ Mission.
Maybe ask or say something to the effect; how can or would they allow an event to take place on their campus for someone who is so contrary to their Mission Statement.
State it makes their limit Mission Statement appear to be nothing but empty words.
How can you claim a mission statement that says "a learning community that encourages the lifelong pursuit of the truth and fosters intellectual, moral and spiritual growth …” when you are promoting a liar, rapist and traitor to the US Constitution?
The Catholic, Benedictine liberal arts mission does not include accommodating someone who has no morals, no interest in spiritual growth, and who exemplifies defiance of pretty much every standard the Catholic Church and the Benedictine Order claim to stand for. Mr. Trump mocks everything the Catholic Church stands for. Does your sense of morality include giving him a further platform to destroy the already-tattered moral fabric of our country? Is this what you mean by “faith seeking understanding”?
Or don’t you care? It looks like you don’t, and your willingness to abet someone as corrupt, dishonest and destructive as this casts a very negative light on you and your institution. The Benedictine Order does not espouse this kind of corrupt partisan political activity, and you should be ashamed to allow yourself to be used in this despicable manner.
Actions speak louder than words. I hope you will reconsider this decision. Unless and until you do, I’ll have nothing to do with your college or your twisted use of religion. And you know Who is watching….
Thomas, I wish you had taken a few minutes to think through what you wrote before sending. Your points are valid. Your manner of phrasing them is different than I would use, but that's your choice. The thing that I am uncomfortable with is the ad hominem attack in the next to last paragraph, complete with shaming. I wish you had rethought that and left it out (along with the last paragraph after the first two sentences. That would have been a stronger and more effective finish.
Below is what I wrote to the President of Saint Anselm College regarding tfg’s town hall taking place on the colleges’ campus on May 10th.
Please note Saint Anselm College is Catholic and Benedictine institute and has been since it’s inception in 1889.
Fwiw I’ve left out/ redacted some personal info below to avoid any potential negative exposure. I added a description of what I’ve left out/ redacted within the parentheses.
I was raised Catholic, grew up in (city/ state), went to Catholic schools from 1st grade through 12th grade. (The schools I attended were listed here. Also some family members info). I know people who have attended St. A’s as well as a former St. A’s head coach. I am deeply concerned about the Town Hall meeting event being held on St. A’s campus for Mr. Donald Trump.
Part of Saint Anselm’s Mission Statement states the Colleges’ pursuit and intention is in “providing all its students…... a learning community that encourages the lifelong pursuit of the truth and fosters intellectual, moral and spiritual growth …”
Mr Trump has been shown to lie constantly, has shown himself to have little to no morals, much less the pursuit of spiritual growth. Hosting this event is contrary to Saint Anselm’s Mission Statement. Allowing this event to take place on campus does not offer St. A’s students a platform which supports and promotes their “lifelong pursuit of the truth” nor “fosters intellectual, moral and spiritual growth” for its students.
Please do not allow this event to take proceed on campus. Hosting an event for someone who is so morally bankrupt is more than contrary to St. A’s Mission Statement. It also makes St. A’s Mission Statement appear to be nothing but empty words.
Thank you, George T. I just called and left a message at the phone number you provided. It identifies as the number for a Valerie Diaz. I assumed she was the assistant or secretary to the president, but I don't know. Regardless, I said the message was for President Favazza.
I appreciate your providing us a way to make our views known directly to the college allowing this event to be held on their campus. If they're as tone deaf and rabid as the Republican party, they probably won't care. But hopefully the college has some sense of respect for their stated mission, and if enough people contact them, they may question their choice. If not, we'll all see how much Saint Anselms College actually believes in truth and morality.
Thank you for informing us of this, George. So disturbing that a Benedictine institution has scheduled this town hall. I will write a letter to President Favazza, and I will call the office on Monday morning. I'm concerned about timing since the town hall appears to be scheduled for Wednesday, May 10.
And, given the article posted on the St. Anselm College website and the quote by President Joseph A. Favazza, Ph.D., I'm not encouraged:
“We believe that honest and informed interchange of ideas and perspectives is the bedrock of an informed electorate, which is why we have enthusiastically and impartially hosted political events since the 1950s,” said Saint Anselm College President Joseph A. Favazza, Ph.D. “Democracy depends on an educated citizenry. Here at Saint Anselm, we are proud to play an important and unique role in this regard.”
How on earth can there be an "honest and informed interchange of ideas and perspectives" when one person is neither capable or a willing participant. And pride in hosting this event is far from the Benedictine tradition, as I understand it.
31st Street Swing Left is a group based in the DC metro area, but we have member all over the country. We have monthly meetings and other activities, including canvassing and fundraising. We are strategic and successful. We welcome members from anywhere, including our brethren in deep red states. We offer both moral support and action. We had a couple of canvassers in Wisconsin for Judge Janet! Won't be surprised if we have canvassers in Texas for Colin Allred, who we supported in his first race. Please please join us - we welcome all souls lost in the darkness of trifectas or otherwise. Www.31st street.org.
I sent this letter to John Boehner yesterday. I haven't heard back:
As a former leader of Congress and as a Lincoln Republican from Ohio, are you not disturbed by the growing movement in at least 21 states: systematically putting up barriers to the ballot box, targeting youth, people of color, disabled and elderly voters and indigenous Americans?
Would you be willing to strategize with me how to pass the Freedom to Vote: John R Lewis Act to save our democracy? https://nationalvotercorps.org/
You realize that there are no checks to stop these State suppressive actions. These Supreme Court decisions:
• 2010 Citizens United v FEC (unlimited corporate money in politics resulting in state legislators receiving enormous amounts of money from corporations distorting the election process for We The People who don’t have an equal playing field for ideas and issues)
• 2013 Shelby County v Holder (ending preclearance of State or local laws relating to voting policies and procedural changes in previously segregated states resulting overnight in 1688 polling places being closed in black precincts)
disenfranchised or resulted in expanding barriers to the ballot box for millions of voters - especially lower income voters, seniors, disabled voters, Americans without transportation, college students and people of color.
Thus Congress must act under its powers in Article 1.4, the 14th, 15th, 17th, 19th, 23rd, 24th and 26th Amendments to protect our right to vote.
If Congress doesn’t act now to protect its powers under the Constitution, then hard-right activists will turn America into a libertarian theocracy or worse.
I hope that you will be willing to work with National Voter Corps to right the wrong of ballot barriers for self-aggrandizement by elected officials in conflict with their sworn obligation to uphold the Constitution on behalf of We the People.
Boehner is a Republican, who does not believe in social good. Republicans' central belief is "I got mine; you get yours the best way you can." Or the shorter version-"Every man for himself."
Thanks, Alice! Wonderful letter! I will promote tonight. any chance you can load this as a newsletter on your substack site? that way I can refer readers to your substack.
Living in Texas is difficult. In San Antonio, we are lucky to have some of the best Democratic elected officials from our Mayor to our wonderful compassionate judges!
The best news of yesterday was that Rep. Colin Alred is running against Ted Cruz. Colin is a perfect candidate to attract Independents and Republicans who dislike Cruz.
Hey Barbara please consider getting involved with https://postcardstovoters.org/. In each local election I’ve sent postcards for, the Democrat won! Even in red states like Florida. I finally feel like I’m helping defend our democracy! Check it out.
I've written thousands of postcards for postcards to voters and it is so satisfying. Cheaper than therapy. :-D They have a campaign going on right now. I also write for other groups. A million postcards were sent to Democrats in WI for the Supreme Court seat Judge Janet just won! Right now, postcards4VA has an important campaign going on that will swing the balance as to whether abortion is legal or not. Some elections are decided by as just a handful of votes so postcards can make all the difference.
It would be wonderful to hear more about the Cruz opponent and a clear eyed view of the chances. I always thought that Beto was a compelling candidate and cannot figure out what happened in that race or the one against Abbot. Would love to hear your thoughts as this moves forward.
I’ve seen Allred on MSNBC and am always impressed by his intelligence and his calm demeanor. He’s a civil rights lawyer. Here’s a link to his congressional web site with his background info:
Beto ran poor races, and given the nature of the state, that doomed him. Telling Texans he was coming for their assault weapons was brave, but political malpractice. Do you know that Bernie Sanders has never taken a leadership position on gun control? Vermont has some of the least-restrictive firearms controls (and a very low rate of gun crimes.). Bernie knows his constituents.
^^THIS^^ - This is something Obama also understood. You have to win office in order to have a seat at the table. Taking certain positions is brave, however it doesn't matter if you don't understand your constituents and get their vote. Not getting a seat at the table is basically giving a freebie to the GOP at this time and not worth it.
Most of us gun owners in VT are sensible, law-abiding people, and where necessary the State has passed common sense gun safety legislation, and does not hesitate to shut down the few crazy violence-prone gun nuts (see for example: https://vtdigger.org/2021/03/05/slate-ridge-ordered-to-permanently-close-pay-46603-to-pawlet/ ). Bernie strongly supports the kind of gun regulations being addressed nationally now (background checks, red-flag laws, outlawing assault weapons, etc.) and puts it in writing when we correspond with him. He does indeed know his constituents, and we know him, and like what we know. We'll keep sending him back to Washington as long as he's willing to go.
Bravo Texas resident. The republican ‘controlled’ state could start busing ‘rational thinkers’ up to democratic states leaving MAGA people to fend for themselves. Maybe they will do us a favor and vote (good word) to secede from the union and turn into a place for all the ‘believers’. OH and please build a BIG wall!
May 4, 2023·edited May 4, 2023Liked by Robert B. Hubbell
I know the readers will be shocked! shocked! to know that James Comer is the GOP's rep to Congress from Kentucky's 1st District. He joins the list of lovelies from the birthplace of Lincoln like Rand Paul and Mitch McConnell. I have a surprise for all of you: Kentucky is a net receiver of taxes from the Federal Government, not a giver (like us evil types in the Northeast!). That's a status they'll never want to change and they can thank a long line of their politicians like McConnell for sucking the Federal Government dry. https://www.wkyufm.org/economy/2018-03-26/kentucky-is-second-most-dependent-state-on-federal-money
We are particularly concerned over the bill in Texas giving the Sec of State the power to overturn election results. Just one way, we fear the Republicans intend to steal 2024.
Once again Mr. Hubbell reminds us that the cascade of extremist legislation in those states where MAGA forces have total control, while deeply disturbing to residents of those Red states, is a sign of desperation among the governments of Texas, Florida, Tennessee, etc. As they seek to enact ever more anti-democratic measures, they drive any remaining undecided voters firmly into the arms of the Democratic Party. Robert makes the excellent point that states with Democratic Trifectas are not attempting to prevent anyone from voting or exercising other basic civic rights. Growing revulsion at these repellent tactics will, over time, take former GOP strongholds and make them "toss-up" states. This process will be accelerated by the fact that roughly 4,000,000 American citizens turn 18 every year--and this demo votes solidly Democratic. If we can just not give into despair or frustration while this process unfolds, at the same time working hard to advance our goals at local, state and national levels, we will see a changed America. Before too long, additional states will, like Georgia and Arizona, go from dependably Republican to toss-up and later predictably Democratic. There is a growing majority favoring the basic tenets of democracy, a reality only too clear to the right-wing forces. Their attempts to counteract these realities by enacting ever more anti-democratic measures will only accelerate this process--and the smarter voices on the right know this. But they have painted themselves into an ever smaller corner.
Well, actually, Democrats in New York did engage in extreme gerrymandering until stopped by the courts. That’s why the forces of evil were able to pick up four seats there last year.
I took great comfort in that tenet as a child so I'm with you in spirit, but then I grew up and studied astronomy and found out about a thing called twilight. Just sayin'
I also live in NC and until Democrats wake up decide to come out to vote and do something nothing changes. Between the Triangle, the Triad and Charlotte there are enough Democrats if motivated to change the landscape.
You are wise to do that. And generous to share your need for it. I suspect that some of the indignation we see is an attempt to deal with grief. But it is important to acknowledge grief itself. I too am allowing myself some space to process my feelings. Otherwise I will shut down and be unable to accomplish anything of real value in moving toward a healthier society. I need first to attend to a healthier me. And right now that means grieving. Tomorrow I'll try again.
“There are other stories that deserve attention (drone attack on the Kremlin and shooting in Atlanta), but the news on Wednesday was slower than most days. So, we should all take a break, catch our breath”...
I wish 38-year-old Amy St. Pierre who was killed in the Atlanta shooting were here to catch her breath on a slow news day. Until this happens in your community it’s just another shooting. We are all slowly being numbed to these events.
I just wanted to put her name in writing to humanize this event which shut down my city yesterday. 5 women ages 71-25 were shot in a medical waiting room. The killer sat in the room next to his mother before doing this demonic act...then he fled.
Hi, Linda. Thanks for including the name of Amy St. Pierre, who deserves to be known.
It is difficult to know how to cover the almost daily mass shootings in our nation. We must acknowledge them, and I do. And I urge people not to become numb. But candidly, words fail me; I can write the same pleas for assault weapons ban and gun control over and over again. That is the burden of a daily newsletter. Others do so and are better at it than me, so perhaps I should refer to those sources.
You are also correct that the impact of a shooting happening in your community is more personal and shattering that something that happened "somewhere else." But I feel that every day. Last night I received a notice that there was a shooting 1/2 mile from my daughter's house, where my 2-year old granddaughter lives. After the shooting, the shooter was "on the loose." That occurrence is all too common in Los Angeles and other major cities. What happened in Atlanta yesterday was a mass tragedy that deserves to be remembered. As do the mass shootings that happen weekly in the US. Covering that in my daily newsletter is a challenge.
And four more killed in Lake Wales Fl. and a murder-suicide a few streets down from me here in FL. They go on like everyday news because, well, they are. Permit-less carry now is surely adding to the epidemic in these states. I know it is not healthy to dwell on these horrors and I am mindful to focus on my gratitude list. And yet, this ever-present violence is emotionally damaging.
And Robert, after pondering my comment your daily inspiration and summaries are brilliant. I don’t think I could have said it any differently than you did today. I just wanted it marked. These senseless atrocities are coming with such fierceness it reminds me of Covid. Like a variant has spun these mass shootings into warp speed.
Dear Linda, Thank you for naming Amy St. Pierre, yet another life lost to a senseless act of gun violence. I was absorbed in the unfolding story yesterday, especially reading about and watching clips of Raphael Warnock’s ‘impassioned speech’ on the Senate floor in response.
On reading Today’s Edition Newsletter early this morning, I was troubled by the reference to a ‘slow news day,’ though hesitated to express my reaction. (I’m not feeling well these days and didn’t want to respond from that place.)
Still, your voice spoke for mine and I thank you for that.
AND, I GREATLY appreciate your subsequent pondering in acknowledging Robert’s “daily inspiration and summaries [as] brilliant.” How lovely. And true.
And as if that wasn’t enough, Robert responded with compassion, awareness and great humility, admitting to his own human limitations.
It is occasions such as these that I feel deeply grateful to be part of a community of humans who are reflective, striving to do and be the best that we can be, even as we’re met with moments that challenge us and those we treasure, those with whom we share our lives and our cities and this planet.
Yes Jean! During my morning ritual of reading. I finally heard Amy’s name. After listening to the morning televised news first discuss so many trivial things as the headliners . One being Harry not liking Camilla. Oh please!
And after I posted I thought oh no! I don’t want to be an insensitive person in Roberts or the community eyes...I wish the country thought and spoke and behaved as we do. And yes I am so proud of my Senators.
am tired of everyday reading about someone armed with a weapon killing innocent people. I had a minor traffic situation where I nicely asked a person who was blocking traffic to move their vehicle and he became outraged and agitated. Afterwards I thought about it and realized he could have been armed. That scared the hell out of me. Joyce Vance said the following “
An overwhelming number of American favor new laws limiting guns that will make us all safer and Republicans continue to refuse to do anything about it. Guns should not have more rights than people in our society, but they do. And the ultimate irony is that the same crowd that insists on having their assault weapons also wants to prevent women from having an abortion, because: pro-life. They are explicitly okay with those babies being mowed down in the nation’s schools, hospitals, shopping malls, and churches once they’re born, with only the thin veneer of thoughts and prayers to notice their deaths.
You could choke on the hypocrisy. It’s that thick.”
Yes, I agree. Joyce Vance and several others are persons who are helping to keep us informed in these trying times.Today she wrote "Guns should not have more rights than people in our society but they do." Spot on.
Stephen, I agree with you 100%. Also, I learned long ago not to try to teach lessons to inconsiderate motorists. There's no telling what might set them off. Road rage is a serious problem even if automatic weapons are not involved.
May 4, 2023·edited May 4, 2023Liked by Robert B. Hubbell
Robert, Thank you for your writing about the challenge of living in Florida. I continue to organize people, to register, request vote by mail ballots (per new laws, they ALL expired 12/31/2022), and work with our supporters to hold their elected officials accountable with phone calls and emails on horrible legislation. Issues in Florida like elsewhere are voting rights, abortion as healthcare, gun violence and the economy. There have been no solutions to the homeowners insurance catastrophe, even with Ian hardly resolved and a new hurricane season beginning June 1 and even with two special legislative sessions and the regular session to end tomorrow, 5/5. Public education, funding, curriculum, teacher unions, has been gutted, by ridiculous universal vouchers with no eligibility caps. so wealthy parents can use them too. Books banned, curriculum restricted, culture wars, more voting restrictions, permitless carry, and on and on and on. This is what happens when people do NOT turn out to vote. In Blue Orange County, the turnout rate went from 78% in 2020 to 42% in 2022. If I were in a same sex marriage with children, I would contemplate relocating. I am not sure I will see reversal in my life (I am almost 71). But we cannot stop, we cannot be silent - silence is complicity. So we continue and focus our organizing on young voters (i.e. ala FL Rep. Anna V. Eskamani & Congressman Maxwell Alejandro Frost) and marginalized communities, black, brown, disabled, veterans. We will transcend and succeed. As you often say, we have every reason to be hopeful and no reason to be complacent. Please friend our FB page, Women for Florida's Future. Thank you for your kindness, respect and support. Susan Windmiller, Orlando, FL
Great article Robert! I would like to share my circumstances here in Illinois. This is a very blue state, yet the rural areas where I live are very red. In our county, Stephenson in the NW corner, the county seat, Freeport, is balanced but the rural county is very red. We are very much fighting to get our voices heard. Although we follow national news we are trying to affect our local population. My wife and I started our local Indivisible chapter. We have been very engaged in advocating for Single Payer health care, and now she is the County Chair of the Democratic Party. As we got more involved in local issues our Democratic Party has found local donors that have allowed us to actually run some efficient and successful campaigns. This last municipal election 9 out of 13 endorsed candidates won, turning the city council from total Republican members to a 4 to 4 split. We have gone from no Democratic candidates on the ballot to challenging almost every seat. We have a real fight on our hands because as you know power doesn't give up power without a struggle. The big money interests in town have noticed and will not go away quietly. This is the fight I want. To return the power in town to those who haven't had a voice. These fights will trickle up. These fights we can win. Remember, all politics is local.
I live in Florida and yes while it is disheartening, discouraging and downright infuriating at times, we are not going into hiding. The Friday Action group ( fridayaction.org) just sent 12,000 ( not a typo!) to voters in Jacksonville, the largest city in the state where a very solid progressive is running for mayor - vote is May 16th. There are indeed things we can do and are doing.
Bless you! pinning to the top!
I live in Maine and am writing through PostcardstoVoters for Donna Deegan. It makes me able to live a little more peacefully doing this.
Thank you!
That should say 12,000 postcards.
So glad you’ve got your dukes up!
Thank you Robert!
I want to tell everyone about my group MarkersForDemocracy.org and our sister groups Downtown Nasty Women Social Group and Team Min and invite you to join us on Zoom.
Since March 2020, we have been meeting together on Zoom which has allowed us to be joined regularly by postcard writers and speakers from all over the country. We’ve hosted over 500 senate, congressional and state and local candidates, grassroots leaders, authors and other speakers since then. We’ve hosted Senators Jon Ossoff and Raphael Warnock, Representatives Katie Porter, Jamie Raskin, Lauren Underwood, Maxwell Frost, leaders of organizations including The Civics Center, Mi Vecino, Flip the Vote, Wisconsin Democratic Party Chair Ben Wikler, Former Ohio Democratic Party Chair and author David Pepper, Robert Hubbell, Bill McKibben and Dahlia Lithwick
Since 2017 we've collectively written hundreds of thousands of postcards for races up and down the ballot. We've also phone banked, textbanked, cure called, registered voters, canvassed, protested, amplified on social media, and called and written to our local, state, and federal representatives.
All the groups have formed giving circles through the States Project which works to elect Democrats to state legislatures around the country to shift the balance of power. Over several years we have raised over $1.5 million in 7 states. Last year we supported Democrats in Arizona, Michigan, Nevada, and Pennsylvania and celebrated when the Michigan House and Senate flipped, the Pennsylvania House flipped from red to blue, Democrats expanded their majorities in the Nevada state legislature, and held ground in Arizona.
Our giving circles are now raising early money for Michigan for 2024 and for Virginia for 2023 where we hope to help Democrats flip the House of Delegates back to blue and strengthen the majority in the Senate to counter the harmful policies of Republican Governor Glenn Youngkin.
If you are not already getting our newsletters and would like to learn more about attending our Zooms we hope you will consider signing up and joining us. Sign up here:
https://markersfordemocracy.us20.list-manage.com/subscribe?id=dfa32b30aa&u=d5fd96e36d548227bcb7555ff
Markers for Democracy is a wonderful group! Pinning this to the top for all to see!
Here is the link to sign up for the Markers For Democracy newsletter to learn about upcoming speakers, postcarding and other information about our activities. https://markersfordemocracy.us20.list-manage.com/subscribe?id=dfa32b30aa&u=d5fd96e36d548227bcb7555ff
Signed up...thank you!
Fantastic! If you have any questions about the group you can email me at Jenny@PhotoArtByJennyAltshuler.com
Front line fighters in th good fighter. Fight on.
Thank you, Robert !!
Let’s all give DeSantis yet another reason to go apoplectic ! Donna Deegan is running against the DeSantis-backed candidate for mayor of Florida’s largest city, Jacksonville. There are virtual opportunies. Early voting has started and Election Day is May16th. Thank you in advance!💙
https://www.mobilize.us/donnadeeganforjacksonvillemayor/
Pinning to the top!
“Perhaps Biden can convince CNN to televise a town hall in Delaware with an audience of progressive Democrats.”
Ok but let’s all take action now regarding CNN and tfg’s upcoming town hall in New Hampshire. Stop it in its tracks before it even begins. Here’s how (and why):
Call Saint Anselm College!
Saint Anselm College’s hosting any event for tfg is contrary to their Mission Statement part of which states “providing all its students…... a learning community that encourages the lifelong pursuit of the truth and fosters intellectual, moral and spiritual growth …”
Saint Anselms College president:
“Guided by our Catholic, Benedictine liberal arts mission…”
Call the college’s President, Joseph A. Favazza, Ph.D. and express dissatisfaction the College is allowing an event to be held on it’s campus for someone that constantly lies, has no morals, much less pursues any spiritual growth. Hosting this event is contrary to the Colleges’ Mission.
Joseph A. Favazza College President
603-641-7010
jfavazza@anselm.edu
Maybe ask or say something to the effect; how can or would they allow an event to take place on their campus for someone who is so contrary to their Mission Statement.
State it makes their limit Mission Statement appear to be nothing but empty words.
Thanks for including a call to action regarding St. Anselm College for hosting the CNN town hall with Trump. Pinning this to the top.
Here's what I wrote to Joseph A. Favazza:
President Favazza:
How can you claim a mission statement that says "a learning community that encourages the lifelong pursuit of the truth and fosters intellectual, moral and spiritual growth …” when you are promoting a liar, rapist and traitor to the US Constitution?
The Catholic, Benedictine liberal arts mission does not include accommodating someone who has no morals, no interest in spiritual growth, and who exemplifies defiance of pretty much every standard the Catholic Church and the Benedictine Order claim to stand for. Mr. Trump mocks everything the Catholic Church stands for. Does your sense of morality include giving him a further platform to destroy the already-tattered moral fabric of our country? Is this what you mean by “faith seeking understanding”?
Or don’t you care? It looks like you don’t, and your willingness to abet someone as corrupt, dishonest and destructive as this casts a very negative light on you and your institution. The Benedictine Order does not espouse this kind of corrupt partisan political activity, and you should be ashamed to allow yourself to be used in this despicable manner.
Actions speak louder than words. I hope you will reconsider this decision. Unless and until you do, I’ll have nothing to do with your college or your twisted use of religion. And you know Who is watching….
Sincerely,
Thomas F. Keefe
W. Cornwall, VT
Thomas, I wish you had taken a few minutes to think through what you wrote before sending. Your points are valid. Your manner of phrasing them is different than I would use, but that's your choice. The thing that I am uncomfortable with is the ad hominem attack in the next to last paragraph, complete with shaming. I wish you had rethought that and left it out (along with the last paragraph after the first two sentences. That would have been a stronger and more effective finish.
Below is what I wrote to the President of Saint Anselm College regarding tfg’s town hall taking place on the colleges’ campus on May 10th.
Please note Saint Anselm College is Catholic and Benedictine institute and has been since it’s inception in 1889.
Fwiw I’ve left out/ redacted some personal info below to avoid any potential negative exposure. I added a description of what I’ve left out/ redacted within the parentheses.
————————-
Sent to: jfavazza@anselm.edu
Subject: CNN - Mr. Trump at St. A’s
Dear President Favazza,
I was raised Catholic, grew up in (city/ state), went to Catholic schools from 1st grade through 12th grade. (The schools I attended were listed here. Also some family members info). I know people who have attended St. A’s as well as a former St. A’s head coach. I am deeply concerned about the Town Hall meeting event being held on St. A’s campus for Mr. Donald Trump.
Part of Saint Anselm’s Mission Statement states the Colleges’ pursuit and intention is in “providing all its students…... a learning community that encourages the lifelong pursuit of the truth and fosters intellectual, moral and spiritual growth …”
Mr Trump has been shown to lie constantly, has shown himself to have little to no morals, much less the pursuit of spiritual growth. Hosting this event is contrary to Saint Anselm’s Mission Statement. Allowing this event to take place on campus does not offer St. A’s students a platform which supports and promotes their “lifelong pursuit of the truth” nor “fosters intellectual, moral and spiritual growth” for its students.
Please do not allow this event to take proceed on campus. Hosting an event for someone who is so morally bankrupt is more than contrary to St. A’s Mission Statement. It also makes St. A’s Mission Statement appear to be nothing but empty words.
I encourage you to cancel this event immediately.
Please do not allow it to proceed.
Regards,
George (last name)
(The City and State I live in)
Thank you, George T. I just called and left a message at the phone number you provided. It identifies as the number for a Valerie Diaz. I assumed she was the assistant or secretary to the president, but I don't know. Regardless, I said the message was for President Favazza.
I appreciate your providing us a way to make our views known directly to the college allowing this event to be held on their campus. If they're as tone deaf and rabid as the Republican party, they probably won't care. But hopefully the college has some sense of respect for their stated mission, and if enough people contact them, they may question their choice. If not, we'll all see how much Saint Anselms College actually believes in truth and morality.
Thank you for informing us of this, George. So disturbing that a Benedictine institution has scheduled this town hall. I will write a letter to President Favazza, and I will call the office on Monday morning. I'm concerned about timing since the town hall appears to be scheduled for Wednesday, May 10.
And, given the article posted on the St. Anselm College website and the quote by President Joseph A. Favazza, Ph.D., I'm not encouraged:
“We believe that honest and informed interchange of ideas and perspectives is the bedrock of an informed electorate, which is why we have enthusiastically and impartially hosted political events since the 1950s,” said Saint Anselm College President Joseph A. Favazza, Ph.D. “Democracy depends on an educated citizenry. Here at Saint Anselm, we are proud to play an important and unique role in this regard.”
How on earth can there be an "honest and informed interchange of ideas and perspectives" when one person is neither capable or a willing participant. And pride in hosting this event is far from the Benedictine tradition, as I understand it.
Article link: http://www.anselm.edu/about/anselmian-hub/news/cnn-hold-town-hall-former-president-trump#.ZFa7leYHRBE.mailto
If enough voices speak out, maybe it can go another way, as in cancelled. We can only hope.
I will share the information, and again thank you for making us aware.
Emailed President Favazza last week expressing my dismay at his allowing his institution to host a serial & morally bankrupt liar.
31st Street Swing Left is a group based in the DC metro area, but we have member all over the country. We have monthly meetings and other activities, including canvassing and fundraising. We are strategic and successful. We welcome members from anywhere, including our brethren in deep red states. We offer both moral support and action. We had a couple of canvassers in Wisconsin for Judge Janet! Won't be surprised if we have canvassers in Texas for Colin Allred, who we supported in his first race. Please please join us - we welcome all souls lost in the darkness of trifectas or otherwise. Www.31st street.org.
Pinning to the top!
I sent this letter to John Boehner yesterday. I haven't heard back:
As a former leader of Congress and as a Lincoln Republican from Ohio, are you not disturbed by the growing movement in at least 21 states: systematically putting up barriers to the ballot box, targeting youth, people of color, disabled and elderly voters and indigenous Americans?
Would you be willing to strategize with me how to pass the Freedom to Vote: John R Lewis Act to save our democracy? https://nationalvotercorps.org/
You realize that there are no checks to stop these State suppressive actions. These Supreme Court decisions:
• 2010 Citizens United v FEC (unlimited corporate money in politics resulting in state legislators receiving enormous amounts of money from corporations distorting the election process for We The People who don’t have an equal playing field for ideas and issues)
• 2013 Shelby County v Holder (ending preclearance of State or local laws relating to voting policies and procedural changes in previously segregated states resulting overnight in 1688 polling places being closed in black precincts)
disenfranchised or resulted in expanding barriers to the ballot box for millions of voters - especially lower income voters, seniors, disabled voters, Americans without transportation, college students and people of color.
Thus Congress must act under its powers in Article 1.4, the 14th, 15th, 17th, 19th, 23rd, 24th and 26th Amendments to protect our right to vote.
If Congress doesn’t act now to protect its powers under the Constitution, then hard-right activists will turn America into a libertarian theocracy or worse.
I hope that you will be willing to work with National Voter Corps to right the wrong of ballot barriers for self-aggrandizement by elected officials in conflict with their sworn obligation to uphold the Constitution on behalf of We the People.
Alice Schaffer Smith,
Executive Director
National Voter Corps
850 Webster Street #520
Palo Alto, CA 94301
Alice.Smith@nationalvotercorps.org
www.nationalvotercorps.org
A nonprofit project under the Social Good Fund
Boehner is a Republican, who does not believe in social good. Republicans' central belief is "I got mine; you get yours the best way you can." Or the shorter version-"Every man for himself."
By the way, you make excellent points.
My mother had another version of Republican rule as we have it today: "Save all but six and save them for pall bearers."
Thanks, Alice! Wonderful letter! I will promote tonight. any chance you can load this as a newsletter on your substack site? that way I can refer readers to your substack.
A great letter and well meaning but John does not care anymore and wants to stay as far as possible away from the fray.
Good luck to you in this effort.
Living in Texas is difficult. In San Antonio, we are lucky to have some of the best Democratic elected officials from our Mayor to our wonderful compassionate judges!
The best news of yesterday was that Rep. Colin Alred is running against Ted Cruz. Colin is a perfect candidate to attract Independents and Republicans who dislike Cruz.
Hey Barbara please consider getting involved with https://postcardstovoters.org/. In each local election I’ve sent postcards for, the Democrat won! Even in red states like Florida. I finally feel like I’m helping defend our democracy! Check it out.
I've written thousands of postcards for postcards to voters and it is so satisfying. Cheaper than therapy. :-D They have a campaign going on right now. I also write for other groups. A million postcards were sent to Democrats in WI for the Supreme Court seat Judge Janet just won! Right now, postcards4VA has an important campaign going on that will swing the balance as to whether abortion is legal or not. Some elections are decided by as just a handful of votes so postcards can make all the difference.
They also have a campaign to elect Donna Deegan as Mayor of Jacksonville.
And texting
It would be wonderful to hear more about the Cruz opponent and a clear eyed view of the chances. I always thought that Beto was a compelling candidate and cannot figure out what happened in that race or the one against Abbot. Would love to hear your thoughts as this moves forward.
Here is the excellent launch video of Cruz’s opponent, Colin Alred. https://youtu.be/IzFWIuDqkCc
thanks for the link! The video is awesome!!
I’ve seen Allred on MSNBC and am always impressed by his intelligence and his calm demeanor. He’s a civil rights lawyer. Here’s a link to his congressional web site with his background info:
https://allred.house.gov/about
https://youtu.be/IzFWIuDqkCc
I think you just gave me back a little bit of the hope I've been needing. Thank you.
Beto ran poor races, and given the nature of the state, that doomed him. Telling Texans he was coming for their assault weapons was brave, but political malpractice. Do you know that Bernie Sanders has never taken a leadership position on gun control? Vermont has some of the least-restrictive firearms controls (and a very low rate of gun crimes.). Bernie knows his constituents.
^^THIS^^ - This is something Obama also understood. You have to win office in order to have a seat at the table. Taking certain positions is brave, however it doesn't matter if you don't understand your constituents and get their vote. Not getting a seat at the table is basically giving a freebie to the GOP at this time and not worth it.
This is where Colin shines. He knows his constituents.
Most of us gun owners in VT are sensible, law-abiding people, and where necessary the State has passed common sense gun safety legislation, and does not hesitate to shut down the few crazy violence-prone gun nuts (see for example: https://vtdigger.org/2021/03/05/slate-ridge-ordered-to-permanently-close-pay-46603-to-pawlet/ ). Bernie strongly supports the kind of gun regulations being addressed nationally now (background checks, red-flag laws, outlawing assault weapons, etc.) and puts it in writing when we correspond with him. He does indeed know his constituents, and we know him, and like what we know. We'll keep sending him back to Washington as long as he's willing to go.
Bravo Texas resident. The republican ‘controlled’ state could start busing ‘rational thinkers’ up to democratic states leaving MAGA people to fend for themselves. Maybe they will do us a favor and vote (good word) to secede from the union and turn into a place for all the ‘believers’. OH and please build a BIG wall!
The rest of us are behind you. Hang on
Good news indeed! What a great kick off video. Fingers crossed Rep. Alred is successful.
I know the readers will be shocked! shocked! to know that James Comer is the GOP's rep to Congress from Kentucky's 1st District. He joins the list of lovelies from the birthplace of Lincoln like Rand Paul and Mitch McConnell. I have a surprise for all of you: Kentucky is a net receiver of taxes from the Federal Government, not a giver (like us evil types in the Northeast!). That's a status they'll never want to change and they can thank a long line of their politicians like McConnell for sucking the Federal Government dry. https://www.wkyufm.org/economy/2018-03-26/kentucky-is-second-most-dependent-state-on-federal-money
Excellent read. Thank you. A lot to think about.
We are particularly concerned over the bill in Texas giving the Sec of State the power to overturn election results. Just one way, we fear the Republicans intend to steal 2024.
Once again Mr. Hubbell reminds us that the cascade of extremist legislation in those states where MAGA forces have total control, while deeply disturbing to residents of those Red states, is a sign of desperation among the governments of Texas, Florida, Tennessee, etc. As they seek to enact ever more anti-democratic measures, they drive any remaining undecided voters firmly into the arms of the Democratic Party. Robert makes the excellent point that states with Democratic Trifectas are not attempting to prevent anyone from voting or exercising other basic civic rights. Growing revulsion at these repellent tactics will, over time, take former GOP strongholds and make them "toss-up" states. This process will be accelerated by the fact that roughly 4,000,000 American citizens turn 18 every year--and this demo votes solidly Democratic. If we can just not give into despair or frustration while this process unfolds, at the same time working hard to advance our goals at local, state and national levels, we will see a changed America. Before too long, additional states will, like Georgia and Arizona, go from dependably Republican to toss-up and later predictably Democratic. There is a growing majority favoring the basic tenets of democracy, a reality only too clear to the right-wing forces. Their attempts to counteract these realities by enacting ever more anti-democratic measures will only accelerate this process--and the smarter voices on the right know this. But they have painted themselves into an ever smaller corner.
Well, actually, Democrats in New York did engage in extreme gerrymandering until stopped by the courts. That’s why the forces of evil were able to pick up four seats there last year.
And a poorly run state Democratic party.
I keep holding on to the tenet, that, ‘It’s darkest before the dawn’.
I took great comfort in that tenet as a child so I'm with you in spirit, but then I grew up and studied astronomy and found out about a thing called twilight. Just sayin'
Although you mention May 3, 2023 "was a slow news day,"
that is not the reality in North Carolina.
Emboldened by a Democrat switching party to the GOP,
thus securing a veto proof supermajority in the North Carolina General Assembly,
a long list of dangerous and frankly undemocratic bills are now being enacted in rapid succession,
with little public notice and often under cover of night.
From ABORTION BANS (from 20 weeks to 12 weeks, but with provisions to eliminate access altogether),
to permit less carry of FIREARMS (legislators will be able to have guns while a sign on a stick is forbidden),
constraints on discussing GENDER AND RACE in education (Pauli Murray's life story shows history needs to be taught,)
attacks on TRANSGENDER athletes (which are rare, with more important issues needing attention),
new proscriptions on PROTESTORS ("to the oppressor, not form of protest is acceptable,")
and the ever-ubiquitous VOTING RIGHTS attacks.
North Carolina is in serious trouble, y'all.
In 1898, Wilmington, NC was the site of a coup d'etat and massacre, perhaps the only successful one to date in the United States.
This is essentially the same thing.
We have got to end the MAGA GOP destruction of the US Constitution.
I also live in NC and until Democrats wake up decide to come out to vote and do something nothing changes. Between the Triangle, the Triad and Charlotte there are enough Democrats if motivated to change the landscape.
I hope you will join an organization to help this happen! Check out You Can Vote to register and help GOTV!
Yes. This is horrible. It's been a horrible horrible day. Will fight another day, but today allowing grief and rage.
You are wise to do that. And generous to share your need for it. I suspect that some of the indignation we see is an attempt to deal with grief. But it is important to acknowledge grief itself. I too am allowing myself some space to process my feelings. Otherwise I will shut down and be unable to accomplish anything of real value in moving toward a healthier society. I need first to attend to a healthier me. And right now that means grieving. Tomorrow I'll try again.
“There are other stories that deserve attention (drone attack on the Kremlin and shooting in Atlanta), but the news on Wednesday was slower than most days. So, we should all take a break, catch our breath”...
I wish 38-year-old Amy St. Pierre who was killed in the Atlanta shooting were here to catch her breath on a slow news day. Until this happens in your community it’s just another shooting. We are all slowly being numbed to these events.
I just wanted to put her name in writing to humanize this event which shut down my city yesterday. 5 women ages 71-25 were shot in a medical waiting room. The killer sat in the room next to his mother before doing this demonic act...then he fled.
Hi, Linda. Thanks for including the name of Amy St. Pierre, who deserves to be known.
It is difficult to know how to cover the almost daily mass shootings in our nation. We must acknowledge them, and I do. And I urge people not to become numb. But candidly, words fail me; I can write the same pleas for assault weapons ban and gun control over and over again. That is the burden of a daily newsletter. Others do so and are better at it than me, so perhaps I should refer to those sources.
You are also correct that the impact of a shooting happening in your community is more personal and shattering that something that happened "somewhere else." But I feel that every day. Last night I received a notice that there was a shooting 1/2 mile from my daughter's house, where my 2-year old granddaughter lives. After the shooting, the shooter was "on the loose." That occurrence is all too common in Los Angeles and other major cities. What happened in Atlanta yesterday was a mass tragedy that deserves to be remembered. As do the mass shootings that happen weekly in the US. Covering that in my daily newsletter is a challenge.
Thank you for engaging with your commenters like this. That alone reinforces the thought that my paid subscription is worthwhile.
And four more killed in Lake Wales Fl. and a murder-suicide a few streets down from me here in FL. They go on like everyday news because, well, they are. Permit-less carry now is surely adding to the epidemic in these states. I know it is not healthy to dwell on these horrors and I am mindful to focus on my gratitude list. And yet, this ever-present violence is emotionally damaging.
And Robert, after pondering my comment your daily inspiration and summaries are brilliant. I don’t think I could have said it any differently than you did today. I just wanted it marked. These senseless atrocities are coming with such fierceness it reminds me of Covid. Like a variant has spun these mass shootings into warp speed.
Dear Linda, Thank you for naming Amy St. Pierre, yet another life lost to a senseless act of gun violence. I was absorbed in the unfolding story yesterday, especially reading about and watching clips of Raphael Warnock’s ‘impassioned speech’ on the Senate floor in response.
On reading Today’s Edition Newsletter early this morning, I was troubled by the reference to a ‘slow news day,’ though hesitated to express my reaction. (I’m not feeling well these days and didn’t want to respond from that place.)
Still, your voice spoke for mine and I thank you for that.
AND, I GREATLY appreciate your subsequent pondering in acknowledging Robert’s “daily inspiration and summaries [as] brilliant.” How lovely. And true.
And as if that wasn’t enough, Robert responded with compassion, awareness and great humility, admitting to his own human limitations.
It is occasions such as these that I feel deeply grateful to be part of a community of humans who are reflective, striving to do and be the best that we can be, even as we’re met with moments that challenge us and those we treasure, those with whom we share our lives and our cities and this planet.
Yes Jean! During my morning ritual of reading. I finally heard Amy’s name. After listening to the morning televised news first discuss so many trivial things as the headliners . One being Harry not liking Camilla. Oh please!
And after I posted I thought oh no! I don’t want to be an insensitive person in Roberts or the community eyes...I wish the country thought and spoke and behaved as we do. And yes I am so proud of my Senators.
Wishing you better health...
Each of these things would send shockwaves around the country Once Upon a Time.
am tired of everyday reading about someone armed with a weapon killing innocent people. I had a minor traffic situation where I nicely asked a person who was blocking traffic to move their vehicle and he became outraged and agitated. Afterwards I thought about it and realized he could have been armed. That scared the hell out of me. Joyce Vance said the following “
An overwhelming number of American favor new laws limiting guns that will make us all safer and Republicans continue to refuse to do anything about it. Guns should not have more rights than people in our society, but they do. And the ultimate irony is that the same crowd that insists on having their assault weapons also wants to prevent women from having an abortion, because: pro-life. They are explicitly okay with those babies being mowed down in the nation’s schools, hospitals, shopping malls, and churches once they’re born, with only the thin veneer of thoughts and prayers to notice their deaths.
You could choke on the hypocrisy. It’s that thick.”
Yes, I agree. Joyce Vance and several others are persons who are helping to keep us informed in these trying times.Today she wrote "Guns should not have more rights than people in our society but they do." Spot on.
Stephen, I agree with you 100%. Also, I learned long ago not to try to teach lessons to inconsiderate motorists. There's no telling what might set them off. Road rage is a serious problem even if automatic weapons are not involved.
Robert, Thank you for your writing about the challenge of living in Florida. I continue to organize people, to register, request vote by mail ballots (per new laws, they ALL expired 12/31/2022), and work with our supporters to hold their elected officials accountable with phone calls and emails on horrible legislation. Issues in Florida like elsewhere are voting rights, abortion as healthcare, gun violence and the economy. There have been no solutions to the homeowners insurance catastrophe, even with Ian hardly resolved and a new hurricane season beginning June 1 and even with two special legislative sessions and the regular session to end tomorrow, 5/5. Public education, funding, curriculum, teacher unions, has been gutted, by ridiculous universal vouchers with no eligibility caps. so wealthy parents can use them too. Books banned, curriculum restricted, culture wars, more voting restrictions, permitless carry, and on and on and on. This is what happens when people do NOT turn out to vote. In Blue Orange County, the turnout rate went from 78% in 2020 to 42% in 2022. If I were in a same sex marriage with children, I would contemplate relocating. I am not sure I will see reversal in my life (I am almost 71). But we cannot stop, we cannot be silent - silence is complicity. So we continue and focus our organizing on young voters (i.e. ala FL Rep. Anna V. Eskamani & Congressman Maxwell Alejandro Frost) and marginalized communities, black, brown, disabled, veterans. We will transcend and succeed. As you often say, we have every reason to be hopeful and no reason to be complacent. Please friend our FB page, Women for Florida's Future. Thank you for your kindness, respect and support. Susan Windmiller, Orlando, FL
Stay strong, Susan! You are a faithful servant of democracy!
Great article Robert! I would like to share my circumstances here in Illinois. This is a very blue state, yet the rural areas where I live are very red. In our county, Stephenson in the NW corner, the county seat, Freeport, is balanced but the rural county is very red. We are very much fighting to get our voices heard. Although we follow national news we are trying to affect our local population. My wife and I started our local Indivisible chapter. We have been very engaged in advocating for Single Payer health care, and now she is the County Chair of the Democratic Party. As we got more involved in local issues our Democratic Party has found local donors that have allowed us to actually run some efficient and successful campaigns. This last municipal election 9 out of 13 endorsed candidates won, turning the city council from total Republican members to a 4 to 4 split. We have gone from no Democratic candidates on the ballot to challenging almost every seat. We have a real fight on our hands because as you know power doesn't give up power without a struggle. The big money interests in town have noticed and will not go away quietly. This is the fight I want. To return the power in town to those who haven't had a voice. These fights will trickle up. These fights we can win. Remember, all politics is local.
Ed,
You and your wife are inspirations to us all! Keep up the good work!
BRAVO Ed! 💙🤜🤛
🎉🤸♀️👏💙