Apr 11, 2023·edited Apr 11, 2023Liked by Robert B. Hubbell
So glad you're feeling better Robert!
I wrote a long comment on yesterday's newsletter. The jist of it was that it's time for Democrats and the "both sides are equal" media to call the Republican party what it is today. It is "the fascist party." It is "the pro-Russia party." It is "the party of big lies."
And it is also the "party of death."
They are killing adults and even little children at an ever increasing clip by encouraging more guns and fewer gun laws.
They are killing women by trying to take away every means of handling health care issues in this country surrounding pregnancy.
They are killing the spirits of women and girls by insisting in many states that they should carry babies to term that are the result of rape or incest.
They are killing democracy by working to make voting more and more difficult for people of color and young people and by creating extreme gerrymandering in various states and then trying to force bad laws and policies down the throats of the majority through any means possible from removing duly elected Democrats, to appointing extremist judges to distort the law and legal norms to accomplish whatever objective their personal beliefs dictate.
Wisconsin elected Judge Janet by fighting fire with fire in that recent election. We've seen over and over that if Democrats don't get stronger and more assertive in fighting Republican lies and dirty politics, Democrats lose.
I think it's time to call the Republican party by the name that it has worked so hard to earn..."the party of death."
The Republican party is "the party of death and destruction of our planet". It is the party of "crazy conspiracies" and "fringe faiths". The party of limited government is now the party of Big Brother who wants to insert itself into the bedrooms and private lives of every American.
The story today about DeSantis and his quack surgeon general is all any clear headed person needs to know about the insanity that has infected this once "Grand Old Party". Now we know how low a politician can go for his own political gain. Homicide.
I am wondering who will launch the lawsuit that alleges that Gov DeathSantis is guilty of manslaughter.
Well I know an orange idiot who (as I have posted before) needs to put in handcuffs, put on a C130 and take immediately to The Hague to be tried for ‘crimes against humanity’. His lies, bullying of scientists, and total mismanagement of the Covid crises caused millions of unnecessary deaths. Oh, and then to make huge amounts of money off the deaths of Americans is unconscionable. Something, too, should be done to all the republican lawmakers who went along with ALL of it. I really don’t know how they sleep at night. Any of them.
Interesting—my sister-in-law voted for Trump…she abhors DeSantis and now the same for Trump. If you know her as I do? Definitely hope hope here for Floridians!
Let's not forget that the FL House has passed a bill to forbid young girls to discuss/learn about their own periods until the 6th grade. 1/2 of girls under that grade have already had their first period. It would appear that the R's want girls to be shamed/embarrassed and terrified about what's happening to their bodies. https://www.salon.com/.../dont-say-period-now-florida.../
I guess we have been transported to another century. Such a bill is sick, cruel and evil. It is diabolical. A thought process like this is so twisted and dangerous...one has to question its origins. Is it about stupidity or are they driven by a cult like figure? Jim Jones from his grave?
Thank you Robert and Managing Editor, for carrying on, above and beyond, and for amplifying the incredible power, eloquence, bravery and inspiration unleashed in Tennessee.
The Phoenix rises from its ashes.
Thanks C C, for rounding up the killers and applying your branding iron. They might also be branded the “party of abortion” (not on their rumps, but foreheads).
What’s good in American life that they aren’t trying to abort?
True Groomers . . . of Death, Hate, Ignorance and Greed.
Horsemen of the Apocalypse indeed, but with squeaky voices, on miniature horses, turning into donkeys before our eyes, like the bad boys in Pinocchio.
Really inspiring letter and comments. So much here.
Calling them fascists is not going to change anything but working hard to highlight their illegal and bias behavior and putting it under a microscope and lights will illuminate for voters who they are.
You are right, Stephen. "Fascist" is a tough concept for many Americans to wrap their heads around. We need the concrete effects of fascism -- outlined by CC -- to make our case to all VOTERS.
This current political climate harkens back to the time before the passage of the Civil Rights Act and the Voting Rights Act. The difference is the party that opposed those bills was the Democratic Party. Today that fascist type party is the Republican Party. The label of the party is immaterial. The same type of greedy, hateful people now are trying to take us back to the age of robber barons, who promoted policies like the Republicans are promoting now. Truly the love of money is the root of these evils.
The point of a label for today's Republican party is not about calling them names for the sake of it. It's to start using a short, accurate, effective way to hammer home how dangerous they are for those citizens who don't pay a lot of attention to the news. And there are always people who are too busy with their own lives to focus on politics.
The media as a whole has been too cautious to really speak out forcefully on a regular basis about the horrific goals and policies of today's Republican Party. Democrats do need to trumpet their accomplishments and goals, but they also need to paint a clear, brief, hard-hitting word picture across the country about the evil that Republicans now represent. I threw out some ideas, but I'm sure others like The Lincoln Project can do a much better job.
This current political climate requires every effective tool that Democrats can muster. A clear, accurate, hard-hitting label for the evil that Republicans are trying to spread across America could be a very effective addition to the Democratic toolbox. The Republicans have been much better than Democrats at labels and political advertising. Unfortunately a lot of it is lies. 2024 is coming soon and the Democrats could use a more concise message to bring home the stark contrast between the Democratic Party and the unthinkable alternative.
Well said, for the second time today! I would just add some emphasis on the need to push the media to spell out who the Republicans are, and what they are doing (promoting anti-democracy, death via guns, forced childbirth, denying global warming, etc.)
I hasten to add that in the same way the GOP is denying global warming, the Democratic Party is denying the problems that are caused by too much immigration, including an exacerbation of global warming.
Simon's push these days is to have us all become info warriors, to let Republicans and others know what a fantastic job Democrats do in regard to our economy, even though, strangely enough, the Republican party is the one who is thought of as being much better at handling the economy. Once you watch this 30 minute presentation you will be telling an entirely different story. I suggest you RSVP, even if you can't attend, so you will be sent the link to the show to watch at your leisure. And to share with everyone you know, no matter their political affiliation.
Finally, Simon says we all have to become extremely loud, being hat info warrior, with telling people what a great job Biden is doing, the contents of the above video, and what horrible things the Republicans are doing. And he says we need to get every election result to be 55% in our favor, which we do by working hard to get the younger generations registered to vote. Want more from him? Go to Hopium Chronicles on Substack at https://simonwdc.substack.com/.
On re-entering the Tennessee legislature after being expelled by the White, right-wing, racist legislators, he made a great speech.
It was not a 'make-nice' speech, not a 'kiss and make up' speech. It was a "thank you for fucking up so badly and so publicly" speech -- a "we are not going away" speech, a "so better get used to us" speech.
A young female epidemiological statistician with a PhD named Rebekah Jones had her life terrorized by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement aided by Florida State Troopers, all with guns drawn, into her home almost two years ago. This was after DeathSantis ensured her firing from State payroll because she reported truthfully, ethically and Religiously
The raid not only terrorized her but also her little children and her male spouse. She was temporarily jailed and her personal computer was temporarily confiscated. While working for Florida government she published the real data of death and illness from COVID which contradicted the State official reporting.
She has sued and the harassment of her continues. She ran for Congress in 2022 in Matt Gaetz’s district in Florida’s bright red panhandle.
It would be such a relief if she chooses to run again in 2024 against him. If she wins she would bring another well-educated young woman into Congress as opposed to “open carry” Gaetz who suffers from all sorts of delusions and lacks real concern for his constituents except the Fascist- loving ones who unfortunately must be in the majority in that district. I don’t know, I live in Florida, a big, populous state, many miles from the panhandle. But my county turned Red too (another “Ugh!”) last November.
Meanwhile Rebekah Jones sorely needs funds to defeat imbecile Gaetz. That is, if she will choose to run again.
I am not working for her campaign; nor will be, BTW. But file this away as a talking point against DeathSantis if he campaigns for President in your part of the country next year. If applicable, vote out Gaetz no matter his Democratic opponent.
She did not move out of state. She tweeted that she "had to send her husband and daughter out of state" for their safety after she received threats. Not exactly the same thing. She is also apparently suing the state, though I did not take the time to look deeply into that. Generally, I'm not into Florida politics, but I am into accuracy in reporting, and I especially like things to have sources. There is some evidence that DeSantis had a hand in her son's predicament. In most cases of this sort, a child would be taken into counseling, not arrested, as he did not actually make threats. I'd like to follow up on this, but have another commitment right now.
Strange because after I commented I read an email from Lorenzo Canizares, Miami Labor Community Alliance that lists her as Intergity Activist. Along with her name are others such FL Democratic legislators and it appears the rest are from FL.
At any rate how does DeathSantis get away with this blatant terrorism which violates The Bill of Rights in the US Constitution and the Florida Constitution?
Youth voters drive a 3-issue election: gun safety, reproductive rights, and the climate crisis. Gender identity related issues and racial justice are becoming more and more a given.
The Civic Center - thecivicscenter.org - goes into high schools to make sure every 18 yr old is registered to vote, every 17 yr old is provisionally registered, and all of them know about how to vote and why. They are making headway in multiple states. Check them out and support them please.
While there is plenty to celebrate with the victory today, it is very premature to say the MAGA fever has broken or is even starting to break. There's a long fight left it's going to take the GOP losing at least two more and likely three more elections to knock this out..
Someone who got really sick in Florida should sue that nutcase Ladapo - the guy is a complete idiot.
So happy you’ve turned the corner! Am I to assume the Managing Editor has also? Hope so.
The two Justins are remarkable. They’re brilliant, eloquent speakers, and young. The Repubs can’t stand that. There is an overwhelming demand that the speaker of the House legislature resign. Justin Jones was so right when he said that their rash and cruel decisions to expel him, awakened people in Tennessee. I am paraphrasing, of course, but the massive turnout in those chambers made Repubs put their tails between their legs.
I listened to Michael Steele, the former RNC chair, talk about how the good ole boys simply will not let “Negroes” conduct themselves in their house. He is right. The speaker thought nothing of his callousness, his authoritarian voice when he called for expulsion of two of the brightest stars. Oh, how he and his KKK buddies failed miserably and it was to the delight of every Democrat and/or every decent person in America! We still have a lot of work to do but people will never forget what happened in Tennessee.
We won’t forget about Louisville, KY either. It is all too painful. Perhaps Biden should issue a warning about tourists avoiding states that have permit-less carry laws. I agree with CC that they should be called something like the “death party” but I will call them MURDERERS.
We are in an existential moment in time, and Star Wars came to mind with Marlene’s “death party” / Darth Vader. It seems we are in an epic battle between Light and darkness. Good/evil. Love/hate. Truth/lies. Inclusion/exclusion...
The Light shining into darkness is bringing that which has been hidden into full view for all to see. The path forward becomes clear.
I appreciate the gift of this forum Robert and Jill, and this community of light workers. It brings solace and inspiration and is a coalescence of many individual points of light into a strong Beam. Let our LIGHT shine on...
The Miami Herald and likely also The Tallahassee Democrat and The Orlando Sentinel have also carried the story of the bogus scientific data fostered by Lapado and failure to correct by our Gov. (Ugh!) DeathSantis. Those who lost loved ones must sue.
I’m glad to read that you and your wife are starting to feel better and are on the road to recovery, as is our nation hopefully. Take care and thanks for your thoughtful words and viewpoints.
More truth rising in Tennessee, courtesy of local News Channel 5 exposing the manipulation of voice votes to avoid accountability for passing or killing bills, and of David Pepper on minority rule:
Kudos to Phil Williams and his series, "Revealed." I'm sorry I didn't know about @NC5PhilWilliams (nationally recongnized journalist at Nashville's News Channel 5) until very recently. I haven't viewed many of his stories in the series, but I had viewed this one. I plan to study them all. It turns out that his local news is my state news. It may well be in the future for other states' news & you just don't know it yet.
I’m so impressed by Ch5 Phil Williams reporting. He shined a light on the undemocratic nature of the legislature in that video. I hope they keep shining that light!
DemLabs is a nonprofit and we share these resources freely. I believe it's valuable to take an issue while it is still fresh in people's minds, explain the context and drive them to a call to action. In this case it is to hold their political reps accountable for potentially jeopardizing their health.
Always, those who have larceny in their hearts manage to bend & twist the rules to benefit themselves. Funny how adamant those same larcenous individuals are about making sure others adhere to a higher standard. Cameron Sexton is a typical Republican hypocrite and has committed what certainly appears to be FRAUD against the State of Tennessee. Tennessee taxpayers should find this information rather "interesting"--indeed even galvanizing.
@NC5PhilWilliams pointed out this quote from the statute regarding residency: "a person does not lose residence if, with the definite intention of returning, the person leaves home ... for temporary purposes, even if of one or more years duration." Also, the per diem is probably not illegal. (fyi: Phil Williams is a nationally recognized journalist in Nashville. You will be seeing more about his award-winning series, "Revealed," soon.)
I am sure Sexton could argue that point to a "legal" victory. But I wonder how the people of his district would feel if they knew he was essentially a liar and a con man - that he really wasn't "one of them" and he had padded his expense requests for his own convenience.
I agree with your "legal" victory statement, but a lot of people who voted for him have probably supported "a liar and a con man" before and would again. I think the issue is whether his non-payment of property taxes in his district for two years disproves his "definite intention of returning." If it does, the per diem would probably become illegal. That said, I'd still just rather catch him on bigger things. I'm sure they are there.
The wording suggests that it is intended to apply to, for instance, people in the military or doing similar work that relocates them for an extended period of time, but who retain their residence. It would not apply to someone who actually has living quarters near the place of work. Most states if not all have something along these lines. Pretty much of a stretch in this case. As for the per diem, if he is not in fact in residence in his district, but lives with his family in the Nashville area with a lower per diem, I suspect that it would be illegal to claim the higher rate. Even if technically legal, he is shaving the intent of the law. Course, he is a powerful white man, and we all know that in Tennessee, that counts for something. Going to be entertaining to watch the outcome. Pretty sure there will be one.
A moving post today on many levels. So glad you are on the mend. Now we must concentrate on the Manager. She needs some TLC and tea. What about Justin Pearson? Is his case different?
McConnell and Rand Paul and James Comer all hail from Kentucky. Wonder if even tiny thoughts in favor of gun safety have started wiggling around in their lizard brains?
Nope. They won't. Their opinions are cast in stone. I am from Kentucky and the mindset of these people comes from many generations. On the other hand, there has been mostly Democratic Party Governors and Democratic Mayors in Louisville. Governor Beshear is wildly popular in Kentucky.
I hope term limits on the SCOTUS, Senate, and House will be realized in my lifetime. McConnell was once a little less partisan and a little more patriotic than he now demonstrates
Sen. Rick Scott also lost a friend. He tweeted this out:
"My friend Tommy Elliott was killed today in Louisville. He was my banker for many years. This news is very shocking and sad for Ann and me. He did so much in the Louisville community, and we pray for his family during this awful time."
One of the loudest refrains in the gun control discussion is that "it takes a good guy with a gun to stop a bad guy with a gun". Since the Nashville murderer is reported to have opened fire with a rifle in a conference room at the bank, I'm wondering where the good guys were. How was he able to walk through the lobby, past the security cameras and, presumably, bank security officers, and into a conference room while carrying a long gun? I could understand a handgun that could be put in a pocket or otherwise hidden, but a rifle? Seriously? It's time that all of our representatives, at every level, were asked directly to put in writing what it will take to get them to act on behalf of the people who are being killed by guns in the hands of bad guys.
So glad you're feeling better Robert!
I wrote a long comment on yesterday's newsletter. The jist of it was that it's time for Democrats and the "both sides are equal" media to call the Republican party what it is today. It is "the fascist party." It is "the pro-Russia party." It is "the party of big lies."
And it is also the "party of death."
They are killing adults and even little children at an ever increasing clip by encouraging more guns and fewer gun laws.
They are killing women by trying to take away every means of handling health care issues in this country surrounding pregnancy.
They are killing the spirits of women and girls by insisting in many states that they should carry babies to term that are the result of rape or incest.
They are killing democracy by working to make voting more and more difficult for people of color and young people and by creating extreme gerrymandering in various states and then trying to force bad laws and policies down the throats of the majority through any means possible from removing duly elected Democrats, to appointing extremist judges to distort the law and legal norms to accomplish whatever objective their personal beliefs dictate.
Wisconsin elected Judge Janet by fighting fire with fire in that recent election. We've seen over and over that if Democrats don't get stronger and more assertive in fighting Republican lies and dirty politics, Democrats lose.
I think it's time to call the Republican party by the name that it has worked so hard to earn..."the party of death."
Well said C C. Thank you.
The Republican party is "the party of death and destruction of our planet". It is the party of "crazy conspiracies" and "fringe faiths". The party of limited government is now the party of Big Brother who wants to insert itself into the bedrooms and private lives of every American.
The story today about DeSantis and his quack surgeon general is all any clear headed person needs to know about the insanity that has infected this once "Grand Old Party". Now we know how low a politician can go for his own political gain. Homicide.
I am wondering who will launch the lawsuit that alleges that Gov DeathSantis is guilty of manslaughter.
Well I know an orange idiot who (as I have posted before) needs to put in handcuffs, put on a C130 and take immediately to The Hague to be tried for ‘crimes against humanity’. His lies, bullying of scientists, and total mismanagement of the Covid crises caused millions of unnecessary deaths. Oh, and then to make huge amounts of money off the deaths of Americans is unconscionable. Something, too, should be done to all the republican lawmakers who went along with ALL of it. I really don’t know how they sleep at night. Any of them.
The only court that will try DeSantis is the court of public opinion
Interesting—my sister-in-law voted for Trump…she abhors DeSantis and now the same for Trump. If you know her as I do? Definitely hope hope here for Floridians!
She’s not alone. MAGA has pushed too hard and too often and many voters have finally seen the light and the truth.
If he were not a right wing wacko, then one of the mega billionaire funded hate mongering PACS would fund the suit against him!
Let's not forget that the FL House has passed a bill to forbid young girls to discuss/learn about their own periods until the 6th grade. 1/2 of girls under that grade have already had their first period. It would appear that the R's want girls to be shamed/embarrassed and terrified about what's happening to their bodies. https://www.salon.com/.../dont-say-period-now-florida.../
I guess we have been transported to another century. Such a bill is sick, cruel and evil. It is diabolical. A thought process like this is so twisted and dangerous...one has to question its origins. Is it about stupidity or are they driven by a cult like figure? Jim Jones from his grave?
Thank you Robert and Managing Editor, for carrying on, above and beyond, and for amplifying the incredible power, eloquence, bravery and inspiration unleashed in Tennessee.
The Phoenix rises from its ashes.
Thanks C C, for rounding up the killers and applying your branding iron. They might also be branded the “party of abortion” (not on their rumps, but foreheads).
What’s good in American life that they aren’t trying to abort?
True Groomers . . . of Death, Hate, Ignorance and Greed.
Horsemen of the Apocalypse indeed, but with squeaky voices, on miniature horses, turning into donkeys before our eyes, like the bad boys in Pinocchio.
Really inspiring letter and comments. So much here.
this was an awesome comment by C C. it is right on the money.
Calling them fascists is not going to change anything but working hard to highlight their illegal and bias behavior and putting it under a microscope and lights will illuminate for voters who they are.
You are right, Stephen. "Fascist" is a tough concept for many Americans to wrap their heads around. We need the concrete effects of fascism -- outlined by CC -- to make our case to all VOTERS.
This current political climate harkens back to the time before the passage of the Civil Rights Act and the Voting Rights Act. The difference is the party that opposed those bills was the Democratic Party. Today that fascist type party is the Republican Party. The label of the party is immaterial. The same type of greedy, hateful people now are trying to take us back to the age of robber barons, who promoted policies like the Republicans are promoting now. Truly the love of money is the root of these evils.
The point of a label for today's Republican party is not about calling them names for the sake of it. It's to start using a short, accurate, effective way to hammer home how dangerous they are for those citizens who don't pay a lot of attention to the news. And there are always people who are too busy with their own lives to focus on politics.
The media as a whole has been too cautious to really speak out forcefully on a regular basis about the horrific goals and policies of today's Republican Party. Democrats do need to trumpet their accomplishments and goals, but they also need to paint a clear, brief, hard-hitting word picture across the country about the evil that Republicans now represent. I threw out some ideas, but I'm sure others like The Lincoln Project can do a much better job.
This current political climate requires every effective tool that Democrats can muster. A clear, accurate, hard-hitting label for the evil that Republicans are trying to spread across America could be a very effective addition to the Democratic toolbox. The Republicans have been much better than Democrats at labels and political advertising. Unfortunately a lot of it is lies. 2024 is coming soon and the Democrats could use a more concise message to bring home the stark contrast between the Democratic Party and the unthinkable alternative.
Well said, for the second time today! I would just add some emphasis on the need to push the media to spell out who the Republicans are, and what they are doing (promoting anti-democracy, death via guns, forced childbirth, denying global warming, etc.)
I hasten to add that in the same way the GOP is denying global warming, the Democratic Party is denying the problems that are caused by too much immigration, including an exacerbation of global warming.
Several great comments today CC. Thanks so much. And I think you would be very interested in watching Simon Rosenberg's presentation this Thursday, April 13th at 1pm EST, "With Democrats Things Get Better" (https://simonwdc.substack.com/p/with-democrats-things-get-better-539?utm_source=substack&utm_medium=email)
Simon's push these days is to have us all become info warriors, to let Republicans and others know what a fantastic job Democrats do in regard to our economy, even though, strangely enough, the Republican party is the one who is thought of as being much better at handling the economy. Once you watch this 30 minute presentation you will be telling an entirely different story. I suggest you RSVP, even if you can't attend, so you will be sent the link to the show to watch at your leisure. And to share with everyone you know, no matter their political affiliation.
Finally, Simon says we all have to become extremely loud, being hat info warrior, with telling people what a great job Biden is doing, the contents of the above video, and what horrible things the Republicans are doing. And he says we need to get every election result to be 55% in our favor, which we do by working hard to get the younger generations registered to vote. Want more from him? Go to Hopium Chronicles on Substack at https://simonwdc.substack.com/.
There's a hashtag on Twitter: #GOPDeathCult
I call it the Racist Republican Party.
That really sums it up C.C. Hard to believe it's really happening.
How about Republicans as the "murder party"?
Justin Jones is something else.
On re-entering the Tennessee legislature after being expelled by the White, right-wing, racist legislators, he made a great speech.
It was not a 'make-nice' speech, not a 'kiss and make up' speech. It was a "thank you for fucking up so badly and so publicly" speech -- a "we are not going away" speech, a "so better get used to us" speech.
Add this to my prior comment on today’s edition.
A young female epidemiological statistician with a PhD named Rebekah Jones had her life terrorized by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement aided by Florida State Troopers, all with guns drawn, into her home almost two years ago. This was after DeathSantis ensured her firing from State payroll because she reported truthfully, ethically and Religiously
The raid not only terrorized her but also her little children and her male spouse. She was temporarily jailed and her personal computer was temporarily confiscated. While working for Florida government she published the real data of death and illness from COVID which contradicted the State official reporting.
She has sued and the harassment of her continues. She ran for Congress in 2022 in Matt Gaetz’s district in Florida’s bright red panhandle.
It would be such a relief if she chooses to run again in 2024 against him. If she wins she would bring another well-educated young woman into Congress as opposed to “open carry” Gaetz who suffers from all sorts of delusions and lacks real concern for his constituents except the Fascist- loving ones who unfortunately must be in the majority in that district. I don’t know, I live in Florida, a big, populous state, many miles from the panhandle. But my county turned Red too (another “Ugh!”) last November.
Meanwhile Rebekah Jones sorely needs funds to defeat imbecile Gaetz. That is, if she will choose to run again.
I am not working for her campaign; nor will be, BTW. But file this away as a talking point against DeathSantis if he campaigns for President in your part of the country next year. If applicable, vote out Gaetz no matter his Democratic opponent.
She is moving out of state. DeSantis terrorized her into leaving.
She did not move out of state. She tweeted that she "had to send her husband and daughter out of state" for their safety after she received threats. Not exactly the same thing. She is also apparently suing the state, though I did not take the time to look deeply into that. Generally, I'm not into Florida politics, but I am into accuracy in reporting, and I especially like things to have sources. There is some evidence that DeSantis had a hand in her son's predicament. In most cases of this sort, a child would be taken into counseling, not arrested, as he did not actually make threats. I'd like to follow up on this, but have another commitment right now.
Here's my source: https://www.pnj.com/story/news/crime/2023/04/06/rebekah-jones-son-arrested-in-florida-what-we-know-about-digital-threat-allegations/70088634007/
Strange because after I commented I read an email from Lorenzo Canizares, Miami Labor Community Alliance that lists her as Intergity Activist. Along with her name are others such FL Democratic legislators and it appears the rest are from FL.
At any rate how does DeathSantis get away with this blatant terrorism which violates The Bill of Rights in the US Constitution and the Florida Constitution?
Don't know but I follow her on Twitter & apparently her 13-year-old son got arrested for making threats. https://www.cnn.com/2023/04/07/politics/rebekah-jones-desantis-florida-son-arrest/index.html
Gaetz. What happened to his legal troubles?
He beat them in court.
I was watching Rachel Maddow today as she was reporting on student demonstrations around the country against gun violence related to kids.
I totally get it being a former teacher knowing that they are sitting ducks while in school.
What if every local election became a one-issue election and every 18 year old and older student registered and voted?
I’d bet things would change really fast!!!!!
Youth voters drive a 3-issue election: gun safety, reproductive rights, and the climate crisis. Gender identity related issues and racial justice are becoming more and more a given.
turnup.us
Gen-Z for Change
@genzforchange
The Civic Center - thecivicscenter.org - goes into high schools to make sure every 18 yr old is registered to vote, every 17 yr old is provisionally registered, and all of them know about how to vote and why. They are making headway in multiple states. Check them out and support them please.
Glad to hear you are feeling better.
While there is plenty to celebrate with the victory today, it is very premature to say the MAGA fever has broken or is even starting to break. There's a long fight left it's going to take the GOP losing at least two more and likely three more elections to knock this out..
Someone who got really sick in Florida should sue that nutcase Ladapo - the guy is a complete idiot.
Let's say it like it is. DeSantis and Lapado are murderers. The Feds should arrest them both.
So happy you’ve turned the corner! Am I to assume the Managing Editor has also? Hope so.
The two Justins are remarkable. They’re brilliant, eloquent speakers, and young. The Repubs can’t stand that. There is an overwhelming demand that the speaker of the House legislature resign. Justin Jones was so right when he said that their rash and cruel decisions to expel him, awakened people in Tennessee. I am paraphrasing, of course, but the massive turnout in those chambers made Repubs put their tails between their legs.
I listened to Michael Steele, the former RNC chair, talk about how the good ole boys simply will not let “Negroes” conduct themselves in their house. He is right. The speaker thought nothing of his callousness, his authoritarian voice when he called for expulsion of two of the brightest stars. Oh, how he and his KKK buddies failed miserably and it was to the delight of every Democrat and/or every decent person in America! We still have a lot of work to do but people will never forget what happened in Tennessee.
We won’t forget about Louisville, KY either. It is all too painful. Perhaps Biden should issue a warning about tourists avoiding states that have permit-less carry laws. I agree with CC that they should be called something like the “death party” but I will call them MURDERERS.
I love the idea of warning tourists about permit-less carry states.
We are in an existential moment in time, and Star Wars came to mind with Marlene’s “death party” / Darth Vader. It seems we are in an epic battle between Light and darkness. Good/evil. Love/hate. Truth/lies. Inclusion/exclusion...
The Light shining into darkness is bringing that which has been hidden into full view for all to see. The path forward becomes clear.
I appreciate the gift of this forum Robert and Jill, and this community of light workers. It brings solace and inspiration and is a coalescence of many individual points of light into a strong Beam. Let our LIGHT shine on...
The Miami Herald and likely also The Tallahassee Democrat and The Orlando Sentinel have also carried the story of the bogus scientific data fostered by Lapado and failure to correct by our Gov. (Ugh!) DeathSantis. Those who lost loved ones must sue.
I’m glad to read that you and your wife are starting to feel better and are on the road to recovery, as is our nation hopefully. Take care and thanks for your thoughtful words and viewpoints.
More truth rising in Tennessee, courtesy of local News Channel 5 exposing the manipulation of voice votes to avoid accountability for passing or killing bills, and of David Pepper on minority rule:
https://twitter.com/SIfill_/status/1645519611142570004?s=20
https://twitter.com/humanssuck12/status/1645521093367660580?s=20
Kudos to Phil Williams and his series, "Revealed." I'm sorry I didn't know about @NC5PhilWilliams (nationally recongnized journalist at Nashville's News Channel 5) until very recently. I haven't viewed many of his stories in the series, but I had viewed this one. I plan to study them all. It turns out that his local news is my state news. It may well be in the future for other states' news & you just don't know it yet.
I’m so impressed by Ch5 Phil Williams reporting. He shined a light on the undemocratic nature of the legislature in that video. I hope they keep shining that light!
Robert,
I am a new subscriber to your newsletter and really appreciate your timely insights.
DemLabs created this map which shows the number of COVID deaths by Florida county and the political rep, inspired by your article. https://www.arcgis.com/apps/dashboards/e948b3b1ba2d4b458382f5d3c1293977
This blog provides more details on the map
https://thedemlabs.org/2023/04/11/mapping-cost-of-playing-politics-with-covid-health-advice/
DemLabs is a nonprofit and we share these resources freely. I believe it's valuable to take an issue while it is still fresh in people's minds, explain the context and drive them to a call to action. In this case it is to hold their political reps accountable for potentially jeopardizing their health.
Here’s something about the speaker of the Tennessee house. I don’t know how accurate it is, but it sure is interesting.
https://popular.info/p/where-does-the-tennessee-house-speaker
Interesting information in that article--ty, DW.
Always, those who have larceny in their hearts manage to bend & twist the rules to benefit themselves. Funny how adamant those same larcenous individuals are about making sure others adhere to a higher standard. Cameron Sexton is a typical Republican hypocrite and has committed what certainly appears to be FRAUD against the State of Tennessee. Tennessee taxpayers should find this information rather "interesting"--indeed even galvanizing.
@NC5PhilWilliams pointed out this quote from the statute regarding residency: "a person does not lose residence if, with the definite intention of returning, the person leaves home ... for temporary purposes, even if of one or more years duration." Also, the per diem is probably not illegal. (fyi: Phil Williams is a nationally recognized journalist in Nashville. You will be seeing more about his award-winning series, "Revealed," soon.)
I am sure Sexton could argue that point to a "legal" victory. But I wonder how the people of his district would feel if they knew he was essentially a liar and a con man - that he really wasn't "one of them" and he had padded his expense requests for his own convenience.
I agree with your "legal" victory statement, but a lot of people who voted for him have probably supported "a liar and a con man" before and would again. I think the issue is whether his non-payment of property taxes in his district for two years disproves his "definite intention of returning." If it does, the per diem would probably become illegal. That said, I'd still just rather catch him on bigger things. I'm sure they are there.
The wording suggests that it is intended to apply to, for instance, people in the military or doing similar work that relocates them for an extended period of time, but who retain their residence. It would not apply to someone who actually has living quarters near the place of work. Most states if not all have something along these lines. Pretty much of a stretch in this case. As for the per diem, if he is not in fact in residence in his district, but lives with his family in the Nashville area with a lower per diem, I suspect that it would be illegal to claim the higher rate. Even if technically legal, he is shaving the intent of the law. Course, he is a powerful white man, and we all know that in Tennessee, that counts for something. Going to be entertaining to watch the outcome. Pretty sure there will be one.
This was an inspired post. Thank you Robert, and I'm glad to learn that you and your wife are recovering from your illness.
A moving post today on many levels. So glad you are on the mend. Now we must concentrate on the Manager. She needs some TLC and tea. What about Justin Pearson? Is his case different?
Gailee, Memphis’s Shelby County Board of Commission, likely to reappointment Pearson, is scheduled to meet on Wed.
Ah!!! Thank you Barbara Jo ❤️
McConnell and Rand Paul and James Comer all hail from Kentucky. Wonder if even tiny thoughts in favor of gun safety have started wiggling around in their lizard brains?
Nope. They won't. Their opinions are cast in stone. I am from Kentucky and the mindset of these people comes from many generations. On the other hand, there has been mostly Democratic Party Governors and Democratic Mayors in Louisville. Governor Beshear is wildly popular in Kentucky.
I hope term limits on the SCOTUS, Senate, and House will be realized in my lifetime. McConnell was once a little less partisan and a little more patriotic than he now demonstrates
Sen. Rick Scott also lost a friend. He tweeted this out:
"My friend Tommy Elliott was killed today in Louisville. He was my banker for many years. This news is very shocking and sad for Ann and me. He did so much in the Louisville community, and we pray for his family during this awful time."
If only someone had the power to do something ...
https://twitter.com/SenRickScott/status/1645593586933673984
“Thoughts and Prayers”
“Thoughts and Prayers”
“Thoughts and Prayers”
“Thoughts and Prayers”
…
One of the loudest refrains in the gun control discussion is that "it takes a good guy with a gun to stop a bad guy with a gun". Since the Nashville murderer is reported to have opened fire with a rifle in a conference room at the bank, I'm wondering where the good guys were. How was he able to walk through the lobby, past the security cameras and, presumably, bank security officers, and into a conference room while carrying a long gun? I could understand a handgun that could be put in a pocket or otherwise hidden, but a rifle? Seriously? It's time that all of our representatives, at every level, were asked directly to put in writing what it will take to get them to act on behalf of the people who are being killed by guns in the hands of bad guys.