A note from one of my daughters that is buried deep in the thread below Stan Crock’s comment on the absence of young people at our reader meetings:
I am Robert Hubbell's daughter. I work full-time and have 2 toddlers. I am exhausted at the end of the day, and often have to pay a babysitter to leave the house. Some days, things are so hectic that I regretfully don't even have time to read the inspiring newsletter that my father writes to help save our democracy. I am THANKFUL for anyone in a season of life who has time to devote to saving our democracy alongside Robert. I would never criticize who these people are or where they come from. Myself and many other young people are in a season of life where our time is going to raising the next generation. Please do not insult my contribution to society, nor the contribution my father's readers are making by showing up to meet each other at his reader gatherings. We are all doing what we can, and Robert is doing more than most.
Thanks for sharing this Robert, I'm an older millennial and my wife and I have a toddler, and she doesn't get to read your daily letters. However, I do, and I share them as needed with the gamily, or we talk about it while walking the dog. It's actually been a bonding experience of sorts lol. That said, we still donate time and $ every month to the local food bank, ACLU, Planned Parenthood, signing up to be poll workers or even donating to good candidates and organizations, so we millennials are still trying to do our part, even if we don't show up in the photo op. Life is exhausting and I empathize with your daughter 110%. I hope she hangs in there!
Thank you so much for sharing your daughter’s note. She speaks for so many young people who are in the thick of demanding careers and parenting AND care deeply about democracy. Their time is so limited! I’m part of a group based in Seattle, Common Power, that is successfully cross generational, but it recruits POC in college into a Leadership Academy, pays them, and also pays a young staff to lead its mostly retired cohort of volunteers on trips to swings states. There are also lots of fantastic groups like Voters of Tomorrow but they seem mostly comprised of young people pre-family obligations. I have told the many extremely busy young people in my life, you turn out to vote and tell your friends, I’m going to spend the rest of this year saving democracy. We all play our parts. And thank you most of all for the part you play, Robert and your fabulous managing editor!
Hi. I've been exactly where you are and I am taking action today for you because I know what a daily circus raising children can be. I also know how very, very important it is. We are all in this together. You'll have your chance later. I will never, ever forget how hard the juggling act was and is which is why one of my top concerns is quality, affordable childcare, family leave, and health care, especially reproductive freedom. Except for Donald Trump, toddlers aren't forever so enjoy them while you can and try to get some sleep.,
It’s a darned good point. I don’t think there was any ill intent in the initial comment, just a lamination. However, it behooves us to find ways to enable the youth to participate, to find ways to ease the path of their participation (e.g., free babysitting?) to intentionally invite them to participate, etc. We can do this because we all have youngsters in our families, there are various youth groups, we can look to college campuses, etc. whenever there ate such an obstacles/ opportunities, the job is ours to find smart solutions.
Robert, I'm so glad you shared this. Jennifer, my training and my heart tell me that every single one of us is doing the best we can. I'm at the great grand stage, so I'm truly in awe of today's parents and caretakers of our children. Blessings to you and your family - I'm so grateful to your parents for their generous work - and wisdom.
In deciding to take the immunity case today, with its sweeping, overly broad question and setting a very slow timetable, SCOTUS pretty much assured that Trump won’t go to trial before the election. During the months of delay, he’ll get to continue trying his case in the court of public opinion where he has the mainstream media facilitating his doing that. SCOTUS has shown itself in even starker terms to be corrupt, in Trump’s pocket. They know what this delay means that they are effectively declaring Trump immune.
We need to fight back. What are the ways open to us? At the least, we should ALL be writing letters to the Court, our Congress people, the media. Flood them with letters. I would love to hear what others think and what else we can be doing.
It’s so hard to have another battle to fight when we have so many.
We know we have to win -- and win big: President, Senate and House – at the ballot box, but in the meantime, please write - and share if you have other ideas.
In your request for ideas, I’ve been wondering if everyone should begin calling the 3/25 Hush Money trial the Election Interference trial. First, it sounds more consequential (at least to me!) and second, it ties it to Georgia and January 6th. This seems more important now if the other cases don’t happen before the election. But all in on defeating Trump at the ballot box!
If Trump wins these arguments in the courts, then it obviously implies that Biden therefore has absolute power (absolute immunity) as well, so… Biden does what he has to do. It opens up a range of possibilities.
Would Biden and the Dems make use of that opportunity as they likely should or would have to, or would they not use those powers and risk Trump winning and nearly instantly using such immunity to exact revenge and autocratic control in ways we can’t imagine. Would the party trying to maintain the democracy simply turn over this absolute power with immunity to the exact guy who will use that power and detrimental ways to the democracy itself? These questions will be addressed in the months ahead. If immunity is granted, it opens up a Pandora’s box of opportunities those opportunities extend to President Biden as well. of course Trump and the Republicans believe that the immunity would only apply to Trump somehow and they will be shocked when President Biden begins to contemplate exactly how he might use that power to preserve American democracy. And, it would have to be a deep set of considerations potentially involving senior US military officials. And which ever decisions are made could be made under the guise of absolute presidential immunity for President Biden.
It is a perverse and unprecedented and disturbing time for humankind.
I have wondered this too. What actions could Biden take that would be illegal but not unreasonable in the face of a revolution unfolding month-by-month? Very careful thought would be required. It would be tricky not to reinforce the notion that Biden et al are "weaponizing the DOJ".
Another interesting possibility would be for Biden to start hinting in April and May on the things he's contemplating doing, IF the Supreme Court gives him immunity in breaking the law. How will that go down with the SCOTUS, as they weigh the arguments through the spring? I'm guessing it would become crystal clear that this is the mother of all Pandora's boxes. (As if they didn't already know that. 🤬)
There might be a way for Biden to do this using Trump's style against him, i.e. sounding like he's joking, but leaving lots of room for doubt. As with the Trumpistas, a lot of Biden's strongest supporters would love to see him humorously(?) float some very provocative but illegal ideas. Maybe it would quickly cause some of the "Biden is too old to be potent" arguments to wither.
Check out their BYOP texting campaign. I signed up for training before the Tom Suozzi campaign, but then never did anything with it so I probably need a refresher. But it sounds like something right up our alley - everyone take small actions which collectively become huge.
I've found the BYOP texting campaign very doable on an almost daily basis. It's very simple once you get the hang of it. It takes about 20 min to send out about 105 texts per day, the daily limit. I've sent out about 5000 texts since Jan 1. The messages sent out always encourage people to register to vote thru a link.. The main thing I have to do is juggle my start time each day. It has to be about 24 hr from the previous day's end time. This is one of my priorities until at least November.
I suggest writing letters to the editor (or comments to stories on the 'net) pointing out that the Supreme Court--perhaps without realizing--has put on its docket the most important question of all: Do we, in John Adams' words, have a government of laws and not of men?
Exactly, Alexandra. I am going to focus on getting people to vote through letters and postcards. I'm going to try to get a registration drive at my daughter's former high school. It's the work that will help us stay hopeful, and defeat Trump at the ballot box!
💙 This idea, Alexandra! My thought is to write a postcard(s) to illegitimate SCOTUS demanding(nicely😉) Justice Thomas’ recusal. Thinking they may not open letters with the recent white powder incidents ?
They took the immunity case because the issue was in two different states and they needed to settle the issue for all the states. This has. It been well reported
Two things: It doesn't explain why they didn't take it in December and why they aren't expediting it now (Remember Bush v. Gore? They can act fast), and allwoig the Circuit court decision to stand would have been t he same as a stamp of approval.
The tight wording benefits the DOJ because it’s only dealing with the specific question about immunity against crimes while in office. It’s better for the DOJ. The resumes should be quicker
Robert, I say this not to flatter you, but to offer thanks for this edition of Today's Edition! It had to be one of the more difficult pieces you've written, which is saying something. It is also one of your best! Thank you and your Managing Editor for all you do!
SCOTUS: "Hi, kids. Yeah, we know. We dug ourselves into a deep hole when we decided to review the Colorado disqualification decision and now we're chasing the hems of our robes trying to figure out how to issue a decision that doesn't totally f**k up the Fourteenth Amendment, Section 3 of that amendment, the state-by-state presidential election system that's been around since . . . [counting] . . . well, since the Electoral College was created at the Founding, and any number of long-standing or newly discovered doctrines we pretend are important but that we'll toss overboard when they don't suit our purposes.
"But never fear. We've got lots of shovels and we're not afraid to dig deeper. Just look at what we did yesterday: we decided we're going to review former President and current Dictator-in-Waiting Donald John Trump's claim of absolute immunity for criminal conduct committed while serving as President <https://www.supremecourt.gov/orders/courtorders/022824zr3_febh.pdf>. We could have said, "You've got to be kidding. Hell, no! Application denied." But we're the smartest people in the universe (well, at least at 1 First Street, NE in the District of Columbia), so we're quite certain we need to waste our and your time by taking on this case. Meanwhile, don't wait up. Remember to put the cat out. Hugs and kisses. TTFN <https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/TTFN>."
Abandoning sarcasm, I'm not convinced that trials and convictions before the November election will matter to the election's outcome. Trump's total unfitness for the Presidency -- or for any office of public trust and responsibility at any level of any democratic society -- has been on full display for years and has been obvious to anyone with a single working brain cell. I doubt that those who say "Well, if he's convicted of a crime, then I won't vote for him" are telling the truth. If Trump's unbroken contrails of dishonesty, immorality, and anti-American pro-fascist dictatorial ambitions aren't enough to keep them from voting for him, mere convictions of multiple felonies aren't likely to cause them to change their votes. So, I think that if they'd vote for Trump before any convictions come about, they'd still vote for him after any convictions, except for perhaps 5 or 6 people at the far margins of that group -- maybe. All the more reason, in my view, that we need to press on diligently and not expect that any criminal convictions would cause Trump voters to abandon him in numbers sufficient to affect the outcome of the election.
THIS - perfectly rebuts the concern of trials and convictions not happening before the election:
"Trump's total unfitness for the Presidency -- or for any office of public trust and responsibility at any level of any democratic society -- has been on full display for years and has been obvious to anyone with a single working brain cell. I doubt that those who say "Well, if he's convicted of a crime, then I won't vote for him" are telling the truth. If Trump's unbroken contrails of dishonesty, immorality, and anti-American pro-fascist dictatorial ambitions aren't enough to keep them from voting for him, mere convictions of multiple felonies aren't likely to cause them to change their votes. "
CGW, I loved your sarcasm. Especially the 14th amendment part.
That said, I respectfully but totally disagree with you and Robert on the question of how a conviction might affect DT's chances of reelection. For our mental health, it's very tempting to say that we don't believe those 5+ percent of voters who say they won't vote for Trump if he's convicted. How can we be so sure that NONE of the potential Trump voters are currently planning to hold their noses while voting for him in Nov.? Maybe half of them would bail with a conviction by a jury. If true, that effectively means Biden probably just lost 2–4% of the electorate yesterday. It's a totally outrageous thing for the Supreme Court to drop on the nation!!
Usually when something like this happens, those of us left of center start immediately thinking of what we can do with letters to the editor, postcards, calls to Congresspeople, protests, etc. But this time, because it's the SCOTUS, we know there is nothing we can do to change either this decision or what the Court will do in June. So, we may choose to delude ourselves with the idea that this won't really matter significantly in the election outcomes. I don't believe it.
For me, this offense just further convinces me that the Trumpists have steadily pulled an unimaginable number of levers that put them in a position to overthrow American government in the Fall. It sickens me and pisses me off, and makes me more determined that these people must be stopped.
Hope, commitment, and determination are, to a significant degree, choices. I'll continue sending money monthly to 8 organizations working overtime to defeat the reactionary revolutionaries. I'll write more cards this year. Damn the torpedoes! Full steam ahead!
Here's why I think the convictions won't matter much to the "If Trump's convicted, I won't vote for him" crowd except at the far margins.
Trump faces four criminal cases: the hush-money payments in New York, the insurrection case in D.C. (even though it doesn't include an insurrection charge, but it clearly concerns activity correlated with the insurrection), the documents-related case in Florida, and the sprawling election-interference case in Georgia -- 91 felony counts in all.
All of the information relevant to those charges has been widely broadcast and available to the public for years, much of it (especially that related to the D.C. case) through the fully televised J6 Committee hearings and the real-time televised events on January 6. Indeed, because of rules of evidence (especially regarding legal relevance) that apply in trials, the public has far more reliable information about the conduct underlying those four cases than the juries will be allowed to consider in reaching their verdicts.
So, in my view, I do not see why those who say they would vote for Trump despite the greater trove of widespread information already out there about conduct at issue in the criminal cases would turn around and change their minds in the wake of criminal convictions based on evidence consisting of a small subset of the already long-standing publicly available information about that same conduct.
Essentially, I'm doubtful that Biden has "lost" the convictions-will-change-my-mind cohort of voters. I think he's never actually had them. The conduct, not the convictions, are the things that would likely change minds. But that crowd say, in effect, that it's prepared to vote for Trump despite the known and well-validated conduct. So I doubt that convictions will change votes except at the margins of that cohort, and not enough to affect the results of the election. Convictions will, however, make it harder to explain away their votes. But in Trumpworld, excusing the inexcusable has never been a barrier to supporting the cult leader.
I don't see the lack of movement in that cohort as a reason for pessimism, however. As Matthew Dowd (I think it was him) noted on MSNBC recently, elections are about adding to your support, not subtracting, and Trump isn't adding. At best, his support from the MAGA crowd is static, and MAGA (which includes the convictions-will-change-my-mind crowd) doesn't seem to be growing. And because of issues surrounding abortion (further highlighted by the Alabama IVF decision) and other matters about which Trump and Republicans are in significant conflict with often large majorities of the public, and because of Trump's increasingly unhinged rhetoric and promises of an American dictatorship, Trump seems to be alienating more and more non-MAGA voters. Those are the voters that Biden will need and are more readily winnable.
I understand and respect your view. My wife and I have frequent conversations along similar lines, and she's more in your camp than mine. But if Trump were to win in November, I think it won't be because he "lost" the convictions-will-change-my-vote crowd. It'll be because he (and Democrats generally) failed to pick up a sufficient number of non-MAGA voters who, for whatever reason, aren't persuaded by Biden's record in so many areas that a President can influence -- a record that is much, much better than I expected when he took office. Hence, the need to put maximum effort into reaching those non-MAGA voters, persuading them about the good news of Biden's accomplishments and what they mean for the well-being of people and a democratic system of government, and then getting those voters to the polls to rebuke and bury Trump.
Again, thanks for enjoying the sarcastic component of my previous comment. And thanks also for presenting your views on the remainder of my comment.
1. I am struck by the absence of young people in all your photos. That’s a shame.
I want to apologize for this comment. I offended a lot of people, including Robert and his daughter, and am truly sorry about that. The various explanations for the nature of the turnout at the lunches make a lot of sense. I am sad (not critical) that people who no longer opt for long-form pieces miss out on Robert's always lucid perspective. I am grateful for what the volunteers and Robert do and am thrilled with the resulting electoral victories. I will be far more careful in the future in my comments.
2. You omitted from your list of Trump horrors his mocking of the military and military families.
3. I wonder if the SCOTUS dynamic is something like this: Roberts promised the liberals a unanimous decision trashing Trump’s absurd immunity arguments, which the left will like, if they delay a decision and avoid criticism from Trump and the right of election interference. This might seem like a way of preserving the court’s credibility by tossing both sides of the political divide a bone. Not sure it will work.
4. Your point about focusing on the ballot box, as usual, is on the money.
A note to Stan and everyone who is commenting on the absence of young people in the photos of our road trip:
First, the people who show up to our meetings are doing their part to defend democracy. Commenting on those who are not in the picture could be seen as an implicit lack of gratitude or appreciation for those who do show up--even if you don't mean it that way.
Second, my newsletter is a long-form essay format, which is not how many young people get their news. There are many other outlets that reach young people--but they are on social media, which does not allow for discussion and analysis. So, the people in the photos reflect people who choose to engage the news differently. Again, that is no criticism of the people in the photo; it is a criticism that should be directed to my decision to write a long-form newsletter.
Third, many of the people in the photo are retired. They could have chosen to do many other things in their retirement--golfing, travel, and just plain relaxing. Instead, they are desperately concerned about our democracy and took the time to show up at a meeting of readers of a progressive newsletter. They deserve our unreserved, full-throated gratitude and thanks. Period. Full stop. No observations about who isn't in the picture.
Fourth, Jill and I chose to drive 2,000 miles down the Mississippi to reach readers in red states who feel abandoned and ignored. They are often afraid to openly identify as Democrats; coming to our meeting was a blessing and a relief to them. To then criticize them for being who they are misses the point entirely: They are heroes, holding the bulwark in red states. It is thankless, difficult work. They deserve our support, not criticism because they are not someone else.
Finally, I have no control over who reads the newsletter. We don't advertise. I have chosen not to be on social media because of the toxicity and hate that is rampant on those platforms. But you can be part of the solution: Help spread the newsletter to young people in your life.
An endorsement of your fourth point (among the others), Robert, and a companion story:
A cousin who lives in deep-red Arizona was talking with a couple of woman friends discovered (hushed tones) that they were all Democrats. Deciding to come out of the (political) closet, they held a meeting for women of similar political orientation. This mushroomed, and before long, Liberal Ladies’ meetings had hundreds of attendees/members.
Many people holding left-of-center (maybe even Centrists) feel shut up by loudmouth MAGAites, unwilling to engage on a battlefield of invective. Their silence doesn’t mean the don’t exist or won’t express themselves through the Secret Ballot.
I was able to attend the Reader’s Meeting in Davenport, Iowa (E Moline). The area I live in is embedded with Trump supporters. At the caucuses neighbors become upset with neighbors when they do not agree even within the Republican Party. I was so appreciative of the support from Robert in understanding the pressure and dilemma a person has when living within small community and feeling as if you are not able to have the conversations about ANY politics without it becoming “ I am right, you are wrong” type scenario. This meeting helped me to understand even more that we cannot attack on their opinions. That will shut the door on any opportunity for a discussion. We do not want to take on traits that then does not distinguish the difference between us and them. That will sabotage the WHAT we are fighting so hard to protect, our democracy. I respect the decision to not become part of the hate rhetoric within social media. My 19 year old grandson lived his father when his mom, my daughter, passed away 4 years ago. They did not have access to cable tv, satellite tv, or other that has news programs. His information is basically from social media. In one conversation we realized that he had never viewed the footage of the Jan. 6th insurrection. He only had seen the “peaceful” footage. He agreed to come watch ALL the footage. Our message to him was then we can discuss what happened that day. I am so appreciative to have Robert Hubbell’s newsletter with facts to ground me every morning! I came home from the meeting as if I had just attended a tent revival. Looking at the avenues that I can make a difference ! Postcard, letter writing, small donations to the candidates that can make a difference and know which ones by the sites posted. Thank you readers who have posted these links!
Robert, You do not need to apologize for who reads your newsletter or who attends small gatherings as you make your way on a 2000 mile drive. Personally, I find it a little naive and unfair for anyone to suggest that you are operating in a silo OR that we all are in such silos. Readers should speak for themselves and stop accusing others. We need to work together when and where we can. Some of us have easy access to young voters; some of us have easy access to older voters; others have access to BIPOC participants; and so on. Let’s get to work and stop criticizing each other.
This is not only one of the best of your newsletters I’ve ever read, with the added benefit of Jill‘s blog, but this is the best reply concerning the absence of young people. I think we’ve all known for a long time that the readers of this newsletter tend to be older, and many are retired, so it did not surprise me to see mostly older Americans at your meetings during this trip. Enjoy your time in Jackson!
My email list of 70-plus has a handful or two of young people including my three nephews and a niece, and the wife of one of the nephews.
I think it's terrific that you're making this drive to reach red staters, I enjoy seeing the photos of them--they all look like friends of mine--and I am, of course, grateful to you and them. It's sad they have often to be afraid to self identify as Democrats. I can't help but think about how--49 years ago, riding my bicycle from Seattle to Boston, I never had to worry about people I met being hostile because of differing views. I don't remember discussing politics with anyone, because it just wasn't a major topic of discussion. (On the other hand, I do remember, a year earlier, some mentions of politics on a cross-country train ride, but said train ride was only about 5-6 weeks before Nixon resigned.)
Hopefully there are some young Tik-Tokkers working to reach young people about this election.
I am Robert Hubbell's daughter. I work full-time and have 2 toddlers. I am exhausted at the end of the day, and often have to pay a babysitter to leave the house. Some days, things are so hectic that I regretfully don't even have time to read the inspiring newsletter that my father writes to help save our democracy. I am THANKFUL for anyone in a season of life who has time to devote to saving our democracy alongside Robert. I would never criticize who these people are or where they come from. Myself and many other young people are in a season of life where our time is going to raising the next generation. Please do not insult my contribution to society, nor the contribution my father's readers are making by showing up to meet each other at his reader gatherings. We are all doing what we can, and Robert is doing more than most.
Jennifer, if I could ❤️ this comment several dozen times I would. I agree with every word of it, but I can also remember being your age, working full-time, and having very little free time to relax. The readers of this newsletter have always tended to be older, so it’s not the least bit surprising that those people meeting up with your father would be in that age demographic. In fact, I never expected to see many young people in these photos, because I already knew that many of these volunteers are retirees.
I loved the story your dad told of why he started this newsletter. Also your mom telling what your dad’s “retirement” day consists of as he puts together the newsletter. So thankful for their commitment I felt as though I was on the edge of despair when Trump was elected. My daughter called me from college and her and her friends were all sobbing. My sister led me to your dad’s newsletter a few years ago. When I would be wound so tight after being bombarded with all the negative news and opinions, we would discuss the next morning. She would say, “read Hunbell!” Thank you for sharing your dad with so many. Also we were told that their most enjoyment in life was spending time with their grandchildren! I taught, worked on masters and raised 4. I admire your commitment as a mom, and totally understand that there are only so many hours in a day. Never feel you are not doing your part just because someone says what they think the youth should be doing!! As a retired elementary teacher I loved seeing parents raise the children that are the future of this great country!!
Agree. But what Robert is doing is light years ahead of what most Americans are doing. Let's all work within our natural silos and maybe try to break out a bit. We all have young relatives and/or friends to engage with - to be sure they are registered and will vote.
“ In 2024, our team must reach every high-potential Native Democratic voter on Navajo, Hopi, and White Mountain Apache lands in Northeast Arizona. With your help, we can empower Native voices in Arizona politics to vote for a Blue Arizona.”
Hi, Susan. Please see my comments in response to Stan, above.
Referring to colleagues in the struggle to defend democracy as "old white people" could viewed as offensive. I would ask you to reflect on your word choice. If you think it is ill-advised, you can always edit or delete your comment. Click on the three dots to the bottom right of your comment to make changes.
Susan, I was at the Monday meeting in Minneapolis. It began at 4:00pm. And yes, entirely composed of older white folks. In my native Minnesota, that’s not odd even in Minneapolis which has become quite diverse. In Tennessee, it should be. But think about it.
Few younger folks have the luxury of leaving work early, finding someone to take care of the kids, have time or interest in following politics, are able to pay the subscription fee or even know what Substack is. Also, African Americans still organize themselves differently than most white folk. Their news comes from the pulpit, neighbors, their barber/hair stylist, maybe friends, but not white, mainstream media. How do I know this? My grandfather was deeply involved in the Civil Rights movement. I spent many an hour in AME, Baptist, and Methodist Church basements as my parents helped organize whatever march, food or clothing drive was needed in the moment. I just contributed to an emergency fund for a young single mom who was in danger of eviction after a request from that network here.
I found Robert because I read HCR’s Letters from an American. I found HCR because a good friend of mine, who is a fellow artist, knew I was angry at how badly the mainstream media was covering then President Trump and we talked about needing to do something. I could afford both subscription fees and was looking for ways to be more active. (I still do art fairs but schedule my days however I want.)
Most folks don’t want to spend their retirements being activists. I don’t either. But we have an obligation to future generations. As President Kennedy used to say; “from those to whom much is given, much is required.” Maybe part of our obligation is to provide diverse friends with an introduction via a gift subscription to the excellent authors on Substack. Then rope them into writing postcards, sending texts or just chatting up their friends.
Yours is a kind, inclusive, thoughtful explanation, which we well-meaning white folks need to hear. Thank you! It's hard to turn anger and bitterness at the gross indignities into thoughtful, compassionate action, but I think honey works better than flamethrowers ( a lesson I'm still trying to learn!)
Kennedy's statement is from the 'noblesse oblige" ethic which acknowledges the obligation of honorable, generous, and responsible behavior by those born with high rank or birth. Not a bad principle for all who have earned or received a favorable place in the social fabric.
Honor to your grandfather, your parents, and their child (present company) who have served the cause of Civil Rights, until today, seems to me, Sheila.
Surely it reflects how something spreads organically--Robert doesn't advertise, people find this newsletter mostly by word of mouth. So what it shows is that our networks are not diverse. Or maybe it's not representative of the readership, but that the people most able to take an afternoon or evening to meet up are older white people like me. Either way, it is a reflection of the reality of our country.
Totally down with that statement. As Robert has stated , it makes no difference what they do now with Trump's Immunity trial, their opinions hold zero credibility to their adherence to the Constitution and the rule of law. They are now in my book "the enemy of the people" as are the mainstream news media. We have identified them as such and we must work together with what we have, our We The People coalition for the promotion of democracy.
Winning is going to require many activist groups who--by virtue of who started the group, or who is friends with whom--attract many different kinds of voters. The Democratic party needs to be a very big tent this year. But that doesn't mean every group fighting for democracy also has to be a big tent. That's just not realistic.
I really appreciate Robert's daily news and the comments readers provide. So my thought is simple, is the supreme court also practicing election obstruction by stalling on this decision about presidential immunity?
Please include the other half of our population when writing about Reproductive Liberty. This is not just a women’s issue. It involves men/fathers as well. The men I know are on our side and fully understand how this impacts women’s rights…they are allies and we need them!
Just tried calling and got a recording with a referral to the website and mailing address. They do not have a public comment phone line. Writing - for what it's worth.
You are making a mockery af our constitution and the rule of law by even considering the idea of Presidential immunity for lawless acts against our country. I am outraged by your conduct and will push to make changes to your body which has shown itself to be unworthy of respect.
Well, the good news about the SCOTUS decision is that when they grant Presidential immunity, Biden can stay in office while we restore democratic guardrails to prevent billionaire-funded Christofascists from ever trying to take over our government ever again.
It wouldn't surprise me if the ruling is so narrow, or they decide to rule against him. They are obviously helping him waste time, but it's entirely possible that they say he can't be removed form the ballot while also saying he doesn't have total immunity. Setting that precedent (no pun intended) would be a terrible move. Although, I still can't believe that Thomas hasn't recused himself at all.
And yet there it is… right? You can’t have Presidential Immunity cause there will be abuse of power.
How is any of this different from the argument that if we keep trump off ballots that then other states will keep Biden off ballots - causing a cascading and untenable issue?
Great that you are doing this trip. As a result of your trip, we have a better understanding of who has the interests of all Americans and what we all can do to ensure that the political party which has that broad interest will dominate our politics. We all go to Memphis and Jackson with you.
"Its glacial pace betrays contempt for the American people—or actual bias in favor of Trump".
Both – and yes, it is maddening. It might be a blessing in disguise and might have the same rallying effect as sacking Roe. Yesterday I came across this tweet:" I thought I was fired up before. I’m ten times as fired up now!"
I will tell you it has fired me up, Stefan. And furthermore, I am finally in Robert's "expand the court" camp, which I was not before. May this be the seed of change.
I think many of us are laboring under the false impression that a jury trial of Trump and a conviction would change the outcome of the 2024 election. Trump must be found guilty by the court of public opinion and the sentence administered by votes on Election Day. The Supreme Court will not do our bidding. The reality is the Republican Party has been high jacked by Trump and the MAGA followers and their positions on reproductive freedoms, immigration, gun control and the role of government is totally opposite of the what the majority of the voters have indicated they find acceptable. The primary voting confirms many Republicans are not sold on Trump returning to power. The ONLY way we can fix the threats to our Democracy is to have an overwhelming majority of voters turning out and rejecting Trump and his enablers in the House and Senate. That is how we fix our Democracy and it has to be “ job one” for everyone,
“ I think many of us are laboring under the false impression that a jury trial of Trump and a conviction would change the outcome of the 2024 election. Trump must be found guilty by the court of public opinion and the sentence administered by votes on Election Day.” –
I am one of those who thinks a court conviction of Trump would influence the election outcome. Why? Because many people would like ratification of their viewpoints by juries *of their peers*, not by talking heads or writing heads.
But, I have to say that looking at these group photos daily inspires me. I love this idea of people connected by a common cause and the same morning reading (!) are building an army of volunteers and making an impact.
Do I wish these pics reflected more diversity? Sure, but for whatever reasons, it appears this particular community is mostly old, white folks! Some of us struggle with that in other settings, e.g., our church.
One small thing that occurred to my (mostly old, white women) LWV group is to individually invite local university student leaders to become members, at no cost. Their availability is different than ours, but a common membership keeps us in communication with each other.
Thank you, Robert, for reminding us to keep our heads screwed on straight. Sometimes, we just need that wakeup call. In the meantime, I want to direct your attention to an article written by Sarah Kendzior about Garland. He simply isn’t the person we all thought he was/is. I wouldn’t mind getting your opinion, when you have the chance.
Reading that knocked the wind out of my sails😮💨. At the same time, it inspired the fighting spirit that must propel us to FIGHT LIKE HELL. I hope everyone reads it. And I hope Robert can dispel or dispute the facts and/or the seeming inevitability of their plans. No matter what, we can't give up. Thanks for sharing.
I haven’t read the link. But, the thought keeps going through my head that we wouldn’t be in this “essence of time” mess if AG Garland had moved a tad quick in appointing Jack Smith.
Wowsa! What a read! And worth it even though it is lengthy. Who knew? And thanks for sharing. I have already shared it with 2 friends and they are blown away.
I disagree with your take but I do want you to also understand that there are several puppet masters who operate in our government. You might want to look into Leonard Leo, for instance. He is the one who was responsible, with Mitch’s help, in placing Kavanaugh, Coney-Barrett, and Gorsuch on the bench. He has 40 shell companies, claiming they are non-profit all in the name of Christianity. These companies launder money and you know who owns one of those? Ginni Thomas!
A note from one of my daughters that is buried deep in the thread below Stan Crock’s comment on the absence of young people at our reader meetings:
I am Robert Hubbell's daughter. I work full-time and have 2 toddlers. I am exhausted at the end of the day, and often have to pay a babysitter to leave the house. Some days, things are so hectic that I regretfully don't even have time to read the inspiring newsletter that my father writes to help save our democracy. I am THANKFUL for anyone in a season of life who has time to devote to saving our democracy alongside Robert. I would never criticize who these people are or where they come from. Myself and many other young people are in a season of life where our time is going to raising the next generation. Please do not insult my contribution to society, nor the contribution my father's readers are making by showing up to meet each other at his reader gatherings. We are all doing what we can, and Robert is doing more than most.
Thanks for sharing this Robert, I'm an older millennial and my wife and I have a toddler, and she doesn't get to read your daily letters. However, I do, and I share them as needed with the gamily, or we talk about it while walking the dog. It's actually been a bonding experience of sorts lol. That said, we still donate time and $ every month to the local food bank, ACLU, Planned Parenthood, signing up to be poll workers or even donating to good candidates and organizations, so we millennials are still trying to do our part, even if we don't show up in the photo op. Life is exhausting and I empathize with your daughter 110%. I hope she hangs in there!
Thank you so much for sharing your daughter’s note. She speaks for so many young people who are in the thick of demanding careers and parenting AND care deeply about democracy. Their time is so limited! I’m part of a group based in Seattle, Common Power, that is successfully cross generational, but it recruits POC in college into a Leadership Academy, pays them, and also pays a young staff to lead its mostly retired cohort of volunteers on trips to swings states. There are also lots of fantastic groups like Voters of Tomorrow but they seem mostly comprised of young people pre-family obligations. I have told the many extremely busy young people in my life, you turn out to vote and tell your friends, I’m going to spend the rest of this year saving democracy. We all play our parts. And thank you most of all for the part you play, Robert and your fabulous managing editor!
Hi. I've been exactly where you are and I am taking action today for you because I know what a daily circus raising children can be. I also know how very, very important it is. We are all in this together. You'll have your chance later. I will never, ever forget how hard the juggling act was and is which is why one of my top concerns is quality, affordable childcare, family leave, and health care, especially reproductive freedom. Except for Donald Trump, toddlers aren't forever so enjoy them while you can and try to get some sleep.,
I miss sleep, but love my babies! Thank you Susan. ❤️
😊
It’s a darned good point. I don’t think there was any ill intent in the initial comment, just a lamination. However, it behooves us to find ways to enable the youth to participate, to find ways to ease the path of their participation (e.g., free babysitting?) to intentionally invite them to participate, etc. We can do this because we all have youngsters in our families, there are various youth groups, we can look to college campuses, etc. whenever there ate such an obstacles/ opportunities, the job is ours to find smart solutions.
Robert, I'm so glad you shared this. Jennifer, my training and my heart tell me that every single one of us is doing the best we can. I'm at the great grand stage, so I'm truly in awe of today's parents and caretakers of our children. Blessings to you and your family - I'm so grateful to your parents for their generous work - and wisdom.
In deciding to take the immunity case today, with its sweeping, overly broad question and setting a very slow timetable, SCOTUS pretty much assured that Trump won’t go to trial before the election. During the months of delay, he’ll get to continue trying his case in the court of public opinion where he has the mainstream media facilitating his doing that. SCOTUS has shown itself in even starker terms to be corrupt, in Trump’s pocket. They know what this delay means that they are effectively declaring Trump immune.
We need to fight back. What are the ways open to us? At the least, we should ALL be writing letters to the Court, our Congress people, the media. Flood them with letters. I would love to hear what others think and what else we can be doing.
It’s so hard to have another battle to fight when we have so many.
We know we have to win -- and win big: President, Senate and House – at the ballot box, but in the meantime, please write - and share if you have other ideas.
In your request for ideas, I’ve been wondering if everyone should begin calling the 3/25 Hush Money trial the Election Interference trial. First, it sounds more consequential (at least to me!) and second, it ties it to Georgia and January 6th. This seems more important now if the other cases don’t happen before the election. But all in on defeating Trump at the ballot box!
Yes, we should be call it “Trump’s Porn Fetish While Interfering with Elections”Trial!
Or the mushroom trial?
Yep, that’s what Lawrence O Donnell called it last night.
He did?? I didn’t hear him say it but myyy…fine minds think alike!🤔🤗
Here's the link. On Chris Hayes Show https://www.msnbc.com/all-in/watch/-this-is-b-s-maddow-shreds-cravenness-of-supreme-court-delaying-trump-trial-205144645897
Fantastic!
Yes. Excellent idea
If Trump wins these arguments in the courts, then it obviously implies that Biden therefore has absolute power (absolute immunity) as well, so… Biden does what he has to do. It opens up a range of possibilities.
Would Biden and the Dems make use of that opportunity as they likely should or would have to, or would they not use those powers and risk Trump winning and nearly instantly using such immunity to exact revenge and autocratic control in ways we can’t imagine. Would the party trying to maintain the democracy simply turn over this absolute power with immunity to the exact guy who will use that power and detrimental ways to the democracy itself? These questions will be addressed in the months ahead. If immunity is granted, it opens up a Pandora’s box of opportunities those opportunities extend to President Biden as well. of course Trump and the Republicans believe that the immunity would only apply to Trump somehow and they will be shocked when President Biden begins to contemplate exactly how he might use that power to preserve American democracy. And, it would have to be a deep set of considerations potentially involving senior US military officials. And which ever decisions are made could be made under the guise of absolute presidential immunity for President Biden.
It is a perverse and unprecedented and disturbing time for humankind.
I have wondered this too. What actions could Biden take that would be illegal but not unreasonable in the face of a revolution unfolding month-by-month? Very careful thought would be required. It would be tricky not to reinforce the notion that Biden et al are "weaponizing the DOJ".
Another interesting possibility would be for Biden to start hinting in April and May on the things he's contemplating doing, IF the Supreme Court gives him immunity in breaking the law. How will that go down with the SCOTUS, as they weigh the arguments through the spring? I'm guessing it would become crystal clear that this is the mother of all Pandora's boxes. (As if they didn't already know that. 🤬)
There might be a way for Biden to do this using Trump's style against him, i.e. sounding like he's joking, but leaving lots of room for doubt. As with the Trumpistas, a lot of Biden's strongest supporters would love to see him humorously(?) float some very provocative but illegal ideas. Maybe it would quickly cause some of the "Biden is too old to be potent" arguments to wither.
Jennifer Rubin says the way the Court defined the case says that they are not going to find that presidents are immune.
https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/2024/02/29/supreme-court-trump-immunity-jan6/?
IMHO the only way to win is to expand the base. https://www.fieldteam6.org/
Let’s continue doing the hard work, calling more and more people onboard to help save democracy and let’s have some confidence:
MSNBC piece
https://apple.news/A6OAJ1UGwQaS6TogcI60mFA
Romney starting to speak with greater clarity on CNN
https://apple.news/A08dA3JJqQ4q0I4G3FWGNug
Check out their BYOP texting campaign. I signed up for training before the Tom Suozzi campaign, but then never did anything with it so I probably need a refresher. But it sounds like something right up our alley - everyone take small actions which collectively become huge.
https://www.fieldteam6.org/byop-textbanks
I also have Field Team 6 in my rotation for postcard writing and like Marsha make a small monthly $ donation.
I've found the BYOP texting campaign very doable on an almost daily basis. It's very simple once you get the hang of it. It takes about 20 min to send out about 105 texts per day, the daily limit. I've sent out about 5000 texts since Jan 1. The messages sent out always encourage people to register to vote thru a link.. The main thing I have to do is juggle my start time each day. It has to be about 24 hr from the previous day's end time. This is one of my priorities until at least November.
Agree. I make a small monthly $ donation.
Thank you for the info! I signed up to write post cards and help behind the scenes.
I suggest writing letters to the editor (or comments to stories on the 'net) pointing out that the Supreme Court--perhaps without realizing--has put on its docket the most important question of all: Do we, in John Adams' words, have a government of laws and not of men?
Just to note that I took my own advice.
https://www.nytimes.com/2024/02/29/opinion/trump-immunity-supreme-court.html?smid=url-share
You did! Thank you! John Adams would be proud!
Awww. But the other letters in the column were terrific.
Exactly, Alexandra. I am going to focus on getting people to vote through letters and postcards. I'm going to try to get a registration drive at my daughter's former high school. It's the work that will help us stay hopeful, and defeat Trump at the ballot box!
💙 This idea, Alexandra! My thought is to write a postcard(s) to illegitimate SCOTUS demanding(nicely😉) Justice Thomas’ recusal. Thinking they may not open letters with the recent white powder incidents ?
✍️
https://www.supremecourt.gov/contact/contactus.aspx
I will be writing the Court.
They took the immunity case because the issue was in two different states and they needed to settle the issue for all the states. This has. It been well reported
Two things: It doesn't explain why they didn't take it in December and why they aren't expediting it now (Remember Bush v. Gore? They can act fast), and allwoig the Circuit court decision to stand would have been t he same as a stamp of approval.
exactly
They could have set the schedule a lot more aggressively. The 2 month delay is a boon to Trump.
exactly
Why are they wording the question so weirdly so as to avoid addressing the obviously not official acts?
The tight wording benefits the DOJ because it’s only dealing with the specific question about immunity against crimes while in office. It’s better for the DOJ. The resumes should be quicker
Robert, I say this not to flatter you, but to offer thanks for this edition of Today's Edition! It had to be one of the more difficult pieces you've written, which is saying something. It is also one of your best! Thank you and your Managing Editor for all you do!
SCOTUS: "Hi, kids. Yeah, we know. We dug ourselves into a deep hole when we decided to review the Colorado disqualification decision and now we're chasing the hems of our robes trying to figure out how to issue a decision that doesn't totally f**k up the Fourteenth Amendment, Section 3 of that amendment, the state-by-state presidential election system that's been around since . . . [counting] . . . well, since the Electoral College was created at the Founding, and any number of long-standing or newly discovered doctrines we pretend are important but that we'll toss overboard when they don't suit our purposes.
"But never fear. We've got lots of shovels and we're not afraid to dig deeper. Just look at what we did yesterday: we decided we're going to review former President and current Dictator-in-Waiting Donald John Trump's claim of absolute immunity for criminal conduct committed while serving as President <https://www.supremecourt.gov/orders/courtorders/022824zr3_febh.pdf>. We could have said, "You've got to be kidding. Hell, no! Application denied." But we're the smartest people in the universe (well, at least at 1 First Street, NE in the District of Columbia), so we're quite certain we need to waste our and your time by taking on this case. Meanwhile, don't wait up. Remember to put the cat out. Hugs and kisses. TTFN <https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/TTFN>."
Abandoning sarcasm, I'm not convinced that trials and convictions before the November election will matter to the election's outcome. Trump's total unfitness for the Presidency -- or for any office of public trust and responsibility at any level of any democratic society -- has been on full display for years and has been obvious to anyone with a single working brain cell. I doubt that those who say "Well, if he's convicted of a crime, then I won't vote for him" are telling the truth. If Trump's unbroken contrails of dishonesty, immorality, and anti-American pro-fascist dictatorial ambitions aren't enough to keep them from voting for him, mere convictions of multiple felonies aren't likely to cause them to change their votes. So, I think that if they'd vote for Trump before any convictions come about, they'd still vote for him after any convictions, except for perhaps 5 or 6 people at the far margins of that group -- maybe. All the more reason, in my view, that we need to press on diligently and not expect that any criminal convictions would cause Trump voters to abandon him in numbers sufficient to affect the outcome of the election.
BRAVO!
THIS - perfectly rebuts the concern of trials and convictions not happening before the election:
"Trump's total unfitness for the Presidency -- or for any office of public trust and responsibility at any level of any democratic society -- has been on full display for years and has been obvious to anyone with a single working brain cell. I doubt that those who say "Well, if he's convicted of a crime, then I won't vote for him" are telling the truth. If Trump's unbroken contrails of dishonesty, immorality, and anti-American pro-fascist dictatorial ambitions aren't enough to keep them from voting for him, mere convictions of multiple felonies aren't likely to cause them to change their votes. "
CGW, I loved your sarcasm. Especially the 14th amendment part.
That said, I respectfully but totally disagree with you and Robert on the question of how a conviction might affect DT's chances of reelection. For our mental health, it's very tempting to say that we don't believe those 5+ percent of voters who say they won't vote for Trump if he's convicted. How can we be so sure that NONE of the potential Trump voters are currently planning to hold their noses while voting for him in Nov.? Maybe half of them would bail with a conviction by a jury. If true, that effectively means Biden probably just lost 2–4% of the electorate yesterday. It's a totally outrageous thing for the Supreme Court to drop on the nation!!
Usually when something like this happens, those of us left of center start immediately thinking of what we can do with letters to the editor, postcards, calls to Congresspeople, protests, etc. But this time, because it's the SCOTUS, we know there is nothing we can do to change either this decision or what the Court will do in June. So, we may choose to delude ourselves with the idea that this won't really matter significantly in the election outcomes. I don't believe it.
For me, this offense just further convinces me that the Trumpists have steadily pulled an unimaginable number of levers that put them in a position to overthrow American government in the Fall. It sickens me and pisses me off, and makes me more determined that these people must be stopped.
Hope, commitment, and determination are, to a significant degree, choices. I'll continue sending money monthly to 8 organizations working overtime to defeat the reactionary revolutionaries. I'll write more cards this year. Damn the torpedoes! Full steam ahead!
Thank you, Tyler.
Here's why I think the convictions won't matter much to the "If Trump's convicted, I won't vote for him" crowd except at the far margins.
Trump faces four criminal cases: the hush-money payments in New York, the insurrection case in D.C. (even though it doesn't include an insurrection charge, but it clearly concerns activity correlated with the insurrection), the documents-related case in Florida, and the sprawling election-interference case in Georgia -- 91 felony counts in all.
All of the information relevant to those charges has been widely broadcast and available to the public for years, much of it (especially that related to the D.C. case) through the fully televised J6 Committee hearings and the real-time televised events on January 6. Indeed, because of rules of evidence (especially regarding legal relevance) that apply in trials, the public has far more reliable information about the conduct underlying those four cases than the juries will be allowed to consider in reaching their verdicts.
So, in my view, I do not see why those who say they would vote for Trump despite the greater trove of widespread information already out there about conduct at issue in the criminal cases would turn around and change their minds in the wake of criminal convictions based on evidence consisting of a small subset of the already long-standing publicly available information about that same conduct.
Essentially, I'm doubtful that Biden has "lost" the convictions-will-change-my-mind cohort of voters. I think he's never actually had them. The conduct, not the convictions, are the things that would likely change minds. But that crowd say, in effect, that it's prepared to vote for Trump despite the known and well-validated conduct. So I doubt that convictions will change votes except at the margins of that cohort, and not enough to affect the results of the election. Convictions will, however, make it harder to explain away their votes. But in Trumpworld, excusing the inexcusable has never been a barrier to supporting the cult leader.
I don't see the lack of movement in that cohort as a reason for pessimism, however. As Matthew Dowd (I think it was him) noted on MSNBC recently, elections are about adding to your support, not subtracting, and Trump isn't adding. At best, his support from the MAGA crowd is static, and MAGA (which includes the convictions-will-change-my-mind crowd) doesn't seem to be growing. And because of issues surrounding abortion (further highlighted by the Alabama IVF decision) and other matters about which Trump and Republicans are in significant conflict with often large majorities of the public, and because of Trump's increasingly unhinged rhetoric and promises of an American dictatorship, Trump seems to be alienating more and more non-MAGA voters. Those are the voters that Biden will need and are more readily winnable.
I understand and respect your view. My wife and I have frequent conversations along similar lines, and she's more in your camp than mine. But if Trump were to win in November, I think it won't be because he "lost" the convictions-will-change-my-vote crowd. It'll be because he (and Democrats generally) failed to pick up a sufficient number of non-MAGA voters who, for whatever reason, aren't persuaded by Biden's record in so many areas that a President can influence -- a record that is much, much better than I expected when he took office. Hence, the need to put maximum effort into reaching those non-MAGA voters, persuading them about the good news of Biden's accomplishments and what they mean for the well-being of people and a democratic system of government, and then getting those voters to the polls to rebuke and bury Trump.
Again, thanks for enjoying the sarcastic component of my previous comment. And thanks also for presenting your views on the remainder of my comment.
1. I am struck by the absence of young people in all your photos. That’s a shame.
I want to apologize for this comment. I offended a lot of people, including Robert and his daughter, and am truly sorry about that. The various explanations for the nature of the turnout at the lunches make a lot of sense. I am sad (not critical) that people who no longer opt for long-form pieces miss out on Robert's always lucid perspective. I am grateful for what the volunteers and Robert do and am thrilled with the resulting electoral victories. I will be far more careful in the future in my comments.
2. You omitted from your list of Trump horrors his mocking of the military and military families.
3. I wonder if the SCOTUS dynamic is something like this: Roberts promised the liberals a unanimous decision trashing Trump’s absurd immunity arguments, which the left will like, if they delay a decision and avoid criticism from Trump and the right of election interference. This might seem like a way of preserving the court’s credibility by tossing both sides of the political divide a bone. Not sure it will work.
4. Your point about focusing on the ballot box, as usual, is on the money.
Stan
A note to Stan and everyone who is commenting on the absence of young people in the photos of our road trip:
First, the people who show up to our meetings are doing their part to defend democracy. Commenting on those who are not in the picture could be seen as an implicit lack of gratitude or appreciation for those who do show up--even if you don't mean it that way.
Second, my newsletter is a long-form essay format, which is not how many young people get their news. There are many other outlets that reach young people--but they are on social media, which does not allow for discussion and analysis. So, the people in the photos reflect people who choose to engage the news differently. Again, that is no criticism of the people in the photo; it is a criticism that should be directed to my decision to write a long-form newsletter.
Third, many of the people in the photo are retired. They could have chosen to do many other things in their retirement--golfing, travel, and just plain relaxing. Instead, they are desperately concerned about our democracy and took the time to show up at a meeting of readers of a progressive newsletter. They deserve our unreserved, full-throated gratitude and thanks. Period. Full stop. No observations about who isn't in the picture.
Fourth, Jill and I chose to drive 2,000 miles down the Mississippi to reach readers in red states who feel abandoned and ignored. They are often afraid to openly identify as Democrats; coming to our meeting was a blessing and a relief to them. To then criticize them for being who they are misses the point entirely: They are heroes, holding the bulwark in red states. It is thankless, difficult work. They deserve our support, not criticism because they are not someone else.
Finally, I have no control over who reads the newsletter. We don't advertise. I have chosen not to be on social media because of the toxicity and hate that is rampant on those platforms. But you can be part of the solution: Help spread the newsletter to young people in your life.
An endorsement of your fourth point (among the others), Robert, and a companion story:
A cousin who lives in deep-red Arizona was talking with a couple of woman friends discovered (hushed tones) that they were all Democrats. Deciding to come out of the (political) closet, they held a meeting for women of similar political orientation. This mushroomed, and before long, Liberal Ladies’ meetings had hundreds of attendees/members.
Many people holding left-of-center (maybe even Centrists) feel shut up by loudmouth MAGAites, unwilling to engage on a battlefield of invective. Their silence doesn’t mean the don’t exist or won’t express themselves through the Secret Ballot.
Thank you Robert, nothing is PERFECT but you come pretty darn close with this amazing newsletter. Thank you for all you do.
I was able to attend the Reader’s Meeting in Davenport, Iowa (E Moline). The area I live in is embedded with Trump supporters. At the caucuses neighbors become upset with neighbors when they do not agree even within the Republican Party. I was so appreciative of the support from Robert in understanding the pressure and dilemma a person has when living within small community and feeling as if you are not able to have the conversations about ANY politics without it becoming “ I am right, you are wrong” type scenario. This meeting helped me to understand even more that we cannot attack on their opinions. That will shut the door on any opportunity for a discussion. We do not want to take on traits that then does not distinguish the difference between us and them. That will sabotage the WHAT we are fighting so hard to protect, our democracy. I respect the decision to not become part of the hate rhetoric within social media. My 19 year old grandson lived his father when his mom, my daughter, passed away 4 years ago. They did not have access to cable tv, satellite tv, or other that has news programs. His information is basically from social media. In one conversation we realized that he had never viewed the footage of the Jan. 6th insurrection. He only had seen the “peaceful” footage. He agreed to come watch ALL the footage. Our message to him was then we can discuss what happened that day. I am so appreciative to have Robert Hubbell’s newsletter with facts to ground me every morning! I came home from the meeting as if I had just attended a tent revival. Looking at the avenues that I can make a difference ! Postcard, letter writing, small donations to the candidates that can make a difference and know which ones by the sites posted. Thank you readers who have posted these links!
𝙇𝙚𝙩’𝙨 𝙨𝙩𝙖𝙮 𝙨𝙩𝙧𝙤𝙣𝙜 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙘𝙖𝙧𝙧𝙮 𝙤𝙣!!!
Robert, You do not need to apologize for who reads your newsletter or who attends small gatherings as you make your way on a 2000 mile drive. Personally, I find it a little naive and unfair for anyone to suggest that you are operating in a silo OR that we all are in such silos. Readers should speak for themselves and stop accusing others. We need to work together when and where we can. Some of us have easy access to young voters; some of us have easy access to older voters; others have access to BIPOC participants; and so on. Let’s get to work and stop criticizing each other.
This is not only one of the best of your newsletters I’ve ever read, with the added benefit of Jill‘s blog, but this is the best reply concerning the absence of young people. I think we’ve all known for a long time that the readers of this newsletter tend to be older, and many are retired, so it did not surprise me to see mostly older Americans at your meetings during this trip. Enjoy your time in Jackson!
My email list of 70-plus has a handful or two of young people including my three nephews and a niece, and the wife of one of the nephews.
I think it's terrific that you're making this drive to reach red staters, I enjoy seeing the photos of them--they all look like friends of mine--and I am, of course, grateful to you and them. It's sad they have often to be afraid to self identify as Democrats. I can't help but think about how--49 years ago, riding my bicycle from Seattle to Boston, I never had to worry about people I met being hostile because of differing views. I don't remember discussing politics with anyone, because it just wasn't a major topic of discussion. (On the other hand, I do remember, a year earlier, some mentions of politics on a cross-country train ride, but said train ride was only about 5-6 weeks before Nixon resigned.)
Hopefully there are some young Tik-Tokkers working to reach young people about this election.
I am Robert Hubbell's daughter. I work full-time and have 2 toddlers. I am exhausted at the end of the day, and often have to pay a babysitter to leave the house. Some days, things are so hectic that I regretfully don't even have time to read the inspiring newsletter that my father writes to help save our democracy. I am THANKFUL for anyone in a season of life who has time to devote to saving our democracy alongside Robert. I would never criticize who these people are or where they come from. Myself and many other young people are in a season of life where our time is going to raising the next generation. Please do not insult my contribution to society, nor the contribution my father's readers are making by showing up to meet each other at his reader gatherings. We are all doing what we can, and Robert is doing more than most.
Thank you Jenny. We love you. And we do this for you and our beautiful granddaughters.
Jennifer, if I could ❤️ this comment several dozen times I would. I agree with every word of it, but I can also remember being your age, working full-time, and having very little free time to relax. The readers of this newsletter have always tended to be older, so it’s not the least bit surprising that those people meeting up with your father would be in that age demographic. In fact, I never expected to see many young people in these photos, because I already knew that many of these volunteers are retirees.
I loved the story your dad told of why he started this newsletter. Also your mom telling what your dad’s “retirement” day consists of as he puts together the newsletter. So thankful for their commitment I felt as though I was on the edge of despair when Trump was elected. My daughter called me from college and her and her friends were all sobbing. My sister led me to your dad’s newsletter a few years ago. When I would be wound so tight after being bombarded with all the negative news and opinions, we would discuss the next morning. She would say, “read Hunbell!” Thank you for sharing your dad with so many. Also we were told that their most enjoyment in life was spending time with their grandchildren! I taught, worked on masters and raised 4. I admire your commitment as a mom, and totally understand that there are only so many hours in a day. Never feel you are not doing your part just because someone says what they think the youth should be doing!! As a retired elementary teacher I loved seeing parents raise the children that are the future of this great country!!
I noticed that too, and also the total absence of BIPOC participants. We are all in such silos.
Agree. But what Robert is doing is light years ahead of what most Americans are doing. Let's all work within our natural silos and maybe try to break out a bit. We all have young relatives and/or friends to engage with - to be sure they are registered and will vote.
Let’s help engage BIPOC! ✍️
“We are writing to Black voters and other voters of color in Georgia and Virginia for their Congressional primary elections.”
https://www.centerforcommonground.org/postcarding?link_id=0&can_id=239815ac26bf47454eff88110b2df461&source=email-the-time-has-come-postcarding-has-begun&email_referrer=email_2216202&email_subject=write-postcards-to-voters-of-color-in-georgia-with-us
“ In 2024, our team must reach every high-potential Native Democratic voter on Navajo, Hopi, and White Mountain Apache lands in Northeast Arizona. With your help, we can empower Native voices in Arizona politics to vote for a Blue Arizona.”
https://www.mobilize.us/aznativeorganizingcampaign/event/527542/
Thank you for the info! I signed up for AZ postcards. Every little bit helps, I keep telling myself.
Hi, Susan. Please see my comments in response to Stan, above.
Referring to colleagues in the struggle to defend democracy as "old white people" could viewed as offensive. I would ask you to reflect on your word choice. If you think it is ill-advised, you can always edit or delete your comment. Click on the three dots to the bottom right of your comment to make changes.
Asking for a friend (who is an old white person).
Done thank you for EVERYTHING!!
Susan, I was at the Monday meeting in Minneapolis. It began at 4:00pm. And yes, entirely composed of older white folks. In my native Minnesota, that’s not odd even in Minneapolis which has become quite diverse. In Tennessee, it should be. But think about it.
Few younger folks have the luxury of leaving work early, finding someone to take care of the kids, have time or interest in following politics, are able to pay the subscription fee or even know what Substack is. Also, African Americans still organize themselves differently than most white folk. Their news comes from the pulpit, neighbors, their barber/hair stylist, maybe friends, but not white, mainstream media. How do I know this? My grandfather was deeply involved in the Civil Rights movement. I spent many an hour in AME, Baptist, and Methodist Church basements as my parents helped organize whatever march, food or clothing drive was needed in the moment. I just contributed to an emergency fund for a young single mom who was in danger of eviction after a request from that network here.
I found Robert because I read HCR’s Letters from an American. I found HCR because a good friend of mine, who is a fellow artist, knew I was angry at how badly the mainstream media was covering then President Trump and we talked about needing to do something. I could afford both subscription fees and was looking for ways to be more active. (I still do art fairs but schedule my days however I want.)
Most folks don’t want to spend their retirements being activists. I don’t either. But we have an obligation to future generations. As President Kennedy used to say; “from those to whom much is given, much is required.” Maybe part of our obligation is to provide diverse friends with an introduction via a gift subscription to the excellent authors on Substack. Then rope them into writing postcards, sending texts or just chatting up their friends.
Yours is a kind, inclusive, thoughtful explanation, which we well-meaning white folks need to hear. Thank you! It's hard to turn anger and bitterness at the gross indignities into thoughtful, compassionate action, but I think honey works better than flamethrowers ( a lesson I'm still trying to learn!)
Kennedy's statement is from the 'noblesse oblige" ethic which acknowledges the obligation of honorable, generous, and responsible behavior by those born with high rank or birth. Not a bad principle for all who have earned or received a favorable place in the social fabric.
Honor to your grandfather, your parents, and their child (present company) who have served the cause of Civil Rights, until today, seems to me, Sheila.
Thank you. I had really good examples of how to be in the world and I am grateful every day.
Learning 'how to be in the world' and being 'grateful every day,' and living from that place—all seems very beautiful to me. So, thank you, Sheila.
Beautiful explanation Sheila. Thank you.
Surely it reflects how something spreads organically--Robert doesn't advertise, people find this newsletter mostly by word of mouth. So what it shows is that our networks are not diverse. Or maybe it's not representative of the readership, but that the people most able to take an afternoon or evening to meet up are older white people like me. Either way, it is a reflection of the reality of our country.
I'm guessing it reflects the demographic of this news letter.
Hey young people are working hard and most of the people in the pictures look retired.
Nope, their credibility is in the golden toilet.
Totally down with that statement. As Robert has stated , it makes no difference what they do now with Trump's Immunity trial, their opinions hold zero credibility to their adherence to the Constitution and the rule of law. They are now in my book "the enemy of the people" as are the mainstream news media. We have identified them as such and we must work together with what we have, our We The People coalition for the promotion of democracy.
Yikes Marlene, what do you mean?
(Sorry to be obtuse)
Winning is going to require many activist groups who--by virtue of who started the group, or who is friends with whom--attract many different kinds of voters. The Democratic party needs to be a very big tent this year. But that doesn't mean every group fighting for democracy also has to be a big tent. That's just not realistic.
Hi everyone,
I really appreciate Robert's daily news and the comments readers provide. So my thought is simple, is the supreme court also practicing election obstruction by stalling on this decision about presidential immunity?
Please include the other half of our population when writing about Reproductive Liberty. This is not just a women’s issue. It involves men/fathers as well. The men I know are on our side and fully understand how this impacts women’s rights…they are allies and we need them!
Always a good reminder. Thank you.
Last night Neal Katyal, looking to me visibly incredulous over the SCOTUS decision to take the case said the court needs to hear from the public.
Here is the address and phone number etc. Write, call, and inundate them with our outrage.
U.S. Mail: Supreme Court of the United States 1 First Street, NE Washington, DC 20543
Telephone: 202-479-3000 (tel:202-479-3000) TTY: 202-479-3472 (tel:202-479-3472) (Mo
nday through Friday 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m
Just tried calling and got a recording with a referral to the website and mailing address. They do not have a public comment phone line. Writing - for what it's worth.
I will be writing a postcard today.
All that stuff goes into the round circular file. Exparte communications are verboten.
Guerilla tactics like attacking bar licenses may be more effective.
Clarence Thomas was admitted to the Missouri bar in 1974 and became an Assistant Attorney General of the State of Missouri the same year. https://ballotpedia.org/Watchdog_group_POE_calls_for_disbarment_of_Clarence_Thomas
So you would do nothing. I am one who feels that there are tallies made even if messages are not read. Not speaking up at all gets us nowhere
Suggested same before seeing your comment, Ilene ! Doing nothing is not an option..Thousands of calls/postcards would not go unnoticed…
I’m writing mine now
Text of my message
John Roberts and Supreme Court Justices,
You are making a mockery af our constitution and the rule of law by even considering the idea of Presidential immunity for lawless acts against our country. I am outraged by your conduct and will push to make changes to your body which has shown itself to be unworthy of respect.
Well, the good news about the SCOTUS decision is that when they grant Presidential immunity, Biden can stay in office while we restore democratic guardrails to prevent billionaire-funded Christofascists from ever trying to take over our government ever again.
It wouldn't surprise me if the ruling is so narrow, or they decide to rule against him. They are obviously helping him waste time, but it's entirely possible that they say he can't be removed form the ballot while also saying he doesn't have total immunity. Setting that precedent (no pun intended) would be a terrible move. Although, I still can't believe that Thomas hasn't recused himself at all.
Ha! Love it
And yet there it is… right? You can’t have Presidential Immunity cause there will be abuse of power.
How is any of this different from the argument that if we keep trump off ballots that then other states will keep Biden off ballots - causing a cascading and untenable issue?
Great that you are doing this trip. As a result of your trip, we have a better understanding of who has the interests of all Americans and what we all can do to ensure that the political party which has that broad interest will dominate our politics. We all go to Memphis and Jackson with you.
"Its glacial pace betrays contempt for the American people—or actual bias in favor of Trump".
Both – and yes, it is maddening. It might be a blessing in disguise and might have the same rallying effect as sacking Roe. Yesterday I came across this tweet:" I thought I was fired up before. I’m ten times as fired up now!"
That's the spirit!
I will tell you it has fired me up, Stefan. And furthermore, I am finally in Robert's "expand the court" camp, which I was not before. May this be the seed of change.
The old guard is holding down the fort until reinforcements arrive.
I think many of us are laboring under the false impression that a jury trial of Trump and a conviction would change the outcome of the 2024 election. Trump must be found guilty by the court of public opinion and the sentence administered by votes on Election Day. The Supreme Court will not do our bidding. The reality is the Republican Party has been high jacked by Trump and the MAGA followers and their positions on reproductive freedoms, immigration, gun control and the role of government is totally opposite of the what the majority of the voters have indicated they find acceptable. The primary voting confirms many Republicans are not sold on Trump returning to power. The ONLY way we can fix the threats to our Democracy is to have an overwhelming majority of voters turning out and rejecting Trump and his enablers in the House and Senate. That is how we fix our Democracy and it has to be “ job one” for everyone,
“ I think many of us are laboring under the false impression that a jury trial of Trump and a conviction would change the outcome of the 2024 election. Trump must be found guilty by the court of public opinion and the sentence administered by votes on Election Day.” –
I am one of those who thinks a court conviction of Trump would influence the election outcome. Why? Because many people would like ratification of their viewpoints by juries *of their peers*, not by talking heads or writing heads.
How come we all look like each other??? :-)
Yesterday was a gut punch, yes.
But, I have to say that looking at these group photos daily inspires me. I love this idea of people connected by a common cause and the same morning reading (!) are building an army of volunteers and making an impact.
Do I wish these pics reflected more diversity? Sure, but for whatever reasons, it appears this particular community is mostly old, white folks! Some of us struggle with that in other settings, e.g., our church.
One small thing that occurred to my (mostly old, white women) LWV group is to individually invite local university student leaders to become members, at no cost. Their availability is different than ours, but a common membership keeps us in communication with each other.
Thank you, Robert, for reminding us to keep our heads screwed on straight. Sometimes, we just need that wakeup call. In the meantime, I want to direct your attention to an article written by Sarah Kendzior about Garland. He simply isn’t the person we all thought he was/is. I wouldn’t mind getting your opinion, when you have the chance.
https://sarahkendzior.substack.com/p/servants-of-the-mafia-state
(And anyone else, please have at it!)
Marlene,
Reading that knocked the wind out of my sails😮💨. At the same time, it inspired the fighting spirit that must propel us to FIGHT LIKE HELL. I hope everyone reads it. And I hope Robert can dispel or dispute the facts and/or the seeming inevitability of their plans. No matter what, we can't give up. Thanks for sharing.
Oh my word; I am shocked… didn’t think I could be shocked any more. I would love it if Robert Hubbell weighed in on this.
Now that we know this I agree that we must fight like hell.
It explains so much! I mean: Jan 6 and not one thing done to protect the country from Trump and all the others that had a hand in it.
I haven’t read the link. But, the thought keeps going through my head that we wouldn’t be in this “essence of time” mess if AG Garland had moved a tad quick in appointing Jack Smith.
Hope you’ve read the article by now, Steven. Explains quite a lot.
Wowsa! What a read! And worth it even though it is lengthy. Who knew? And thanks for sharing. I have already shared it with 2 friends and they are blown away.
I disagree with your take but I do want you to also understand that there are several puppet masters who operate in our government. You might want to look into Leonard Leo, for instance. He is the one who was responsible, with Mitch’s help, in placing Kavanaugh, Coney-Barrett, and Gorsuch on the bench. He has 40 shell companies, claiming they are non-profit all in the name of Christianity. These companies launder money and you know who owns one of those? Ginni Thomas!
Thanks, Jill’s video was wonderful!
The link to walk the walk USA didn’t work, but I googled it and registered for their zoom.